Fall Fundraiser is here and it truly takes a village to make it happen! Over the last few weeks, we’ve looked at some of the amazing events we’re planning, the CKUA team behind the scenes, and you, our donors who power CKUA. This week, we’re looking at the artists who say they’re not sure how they’d survive without CKUA.
It’s often said: CKUA isn’t just a radio station. It’s a vital part of the music ecosystem in Alberta and across Canada. For nearly a century, CKUA has connected artists and audiences. CKUA helps musicians find listeners, grow their fanbase, and develop careers in a tough and ever-changing industry.
It’s a lifeline for artists, especially those within Alberta and Canada. CKUA offers something rare in today’s fast-paced musical landscape: true community, genuine support and a space where music comes first.
For many musicians, CKUA has played a crucial role in launching their careers.
Oji-Cree performer and JUNO-winner Aysanabee says that CKUA’s impact has been clear to him throughout his career. Often at concerts, people will tell him they bought tickets after hearing his music on CKUA.
“So thank you for playing my music and creating such a wonderful platform for artists to grow their careers and reach new audiences,” the Toronto-based artist says. “Thank you and miigwetch.”
For Edmonton-based folk pop duo Jed and the Valentine, a.k.a. Maria Khaner and Jonah Morris, CKUA’s support came at a defining moment.
“CKUA has been an integral part of our musical development,” says Morris. “CKUA was the first radio station ever to play one of our songs. CKUA has been a huge, huge supporter of not only us but the Alberta music scene as a whole.”
Artists say CKUA helps them reach fans they’d never find otherwise. Lethbridge country artist Shaela Miller says she’s grateful for the extra reach her music has been given.
“If CKUA didn’t play my music, I would have far fewer fans at all my shows. I’m so grateful for all the DJs, the supporters, and the donors.”
The sense of connection goes beyond airplay. For Calgary country musician Mariel Buckley, CKUA has always been there.
“I am so personally grateful to the listeners and hosts at CKUA who have uplifted my music since the beginning of my career. I wasn’t always as confident or as talented as I’ve worked to become and I’m so thankful for their unwavering support for me to find my voice and continue making music that I love.”
In an era dominated by algorithms and AI, CKUA stays true to its authenticity. As Vancouver folk-roots musician Suzie Ungerleider puts it, “CKUA is such an important support for me in particular and for Canadian roots music as a whole. I love how it is fiercely independent and all about the music instead of corporate agendas. It’s about the music and creating community. Pretty radical in this day and age.”
Whether we’re talking to newcomers or veterans, artists are constantly mentioning CKUA’s uniqueness and importance in the modern, ever-evolving world.
“CKUA’s like home for me. It’s a place you can always go that feels good,” says Lethbridge artist Skinny Dyck. “CKUA is that for me and I’m sure it is for a lot of other artists. We have a good footing here with the benefit of CKUA. It helps buttress us up.”
Let’s keep it going, to support the artists we all love. They haven’t chosen an easy path and if we enjoy their art, it’s time to support CKUA, so CKUA can support them.
As Miller says, “You have to donate to CKUA if you want it to survive forever. That’s why I do. Monthly donor!”
“If you are able, please, please, please donate at CKUA.com, we would really appreciate it and so many other musicians and artists in Alberta would appreciate it as well,” says Morris.
If you believe in the importance of these musicians and want to help CKUA support them, you can donate here!
Keep the beat: You power CKUA!
