The Wild Card is a new program on CKUA. It airs Fridays from 6pm to 7pm MT. We asked host Jasmine Vickaryous about her vision for the new show, her musical influences, and what CKUA means to her.
Tell us about your new show. What can people expect when they tune in?
It’s a deep dive into country, folk, and roots music. Sometimes twangy, sometimes tender, always a little unpredictable. Expect a mix of old classics, fresh discoveries, and underrepresented voices in these genres. One minute, you might hear an outlaw ballad; the next, a banjo-fueled barn burner from an artist you’ve never heard before.
Who are your cultural influences and musical favorites?
I’m inspired by the storytelling and grit of southern country mixed with the wide-open feel of the prairies. Country and folk music has some of the best, most hardcore storytelling around, full of heartbreak, resilience, and the occasional bar fight. I also love the theatrics of it all: rhinestone suits, big hair, and the kind of glamour that says, “I’ve seen some things, but I still look fabulous.”
As for musical favorites? Dolly Parton, John Prine, Ruthie Foster, Charley Pride, Sierra Ferrell, Willie Nelson, Linda Martell, Charley Crockett, and Tammy Wynette are all on heavy rotation.
How did you decide on your program’s name?
I was listening to “The Gambler” by Kenny Rogers when it hit me—I wanted the show’s name to have a poker reference. I went back and forth on a few options (something with “Lucky” or “Aces” had potential), but The Wild Card just fit. It captures the essence of the show: an unpredictable journey through country, folk, and roots music. Plus, a wild card can be anything, and that’s exactly the kind of freedom I want with the playlist.
What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
I have a serious obsession with vintage campers and trailers, I’ve owned three. The first two (a VW Westfalia and then a 1978 Ventura trailer) were basically heartbreak on wheels, filled with mechanical issues and dashed road trip dreams. But the third time’s the charm! My current trailer, a 1984 U-Haul CT 13 Camper, is the one! A trusty little rig ready to go on adventures across North America. On paper, I probably shouldn’t love camping, but here we are.
What does CKUA mean to you?
CKUA is a gem and a true one-of-a-kind station that brings music lovers together and keeps Alberta’s arts and music scene thriving. There’s nothing else like it in the country, and we’re lucky to have it. It’s introduced me to incredible music, artists, people, and things happening in my community that I wouldn’t have found anywhere else.
