A_Dog Tribute: Honoring a Burlington Legend
In a heartwarming tribute to the late DJ Andy “A_Dog” Williams, hip-hop luminaries Nastee and Konflik are hosting the AfterLyfe Bornday Celebration at the Alchemist brewery in Stowe. This event commemorates the day Williams passed away, December 26, and pays homage to his enduring impact on the Burlington community. The Friends for A_Dog Foundation, dedicated to preserving Williams’ legacy, has been instrumental in organizing bone marrow drives, music and skateboarding programs, scholarships, and free events for local youth. Every year, the city celebrates A_Dog Day on the last Saturday in August, testament to the DJ’s lasting influence.
Nastee shared his sentiments about the event, expressing the importance of recognizing the day Williams transitioned “back to the essence.” The celebration will feature performances by local artists and special guests, along with the debut of Tribute Volume 1, a scratch DJ compilation showcasing the talent of both established and emerging musicians. Additionally, attendees can look forward to the premiere of the music video “Itchy & Statiky,” showcasing A_Dog’s unparalleled turntablist skills.
Despite the unconventional nature of celebrating a “death day,” Nastee emphasized the significance of publicly honoring Williams, underscoring his profound impact on the Burlington music scene. The event serves as a poignant reminder of A_Dog’s enduring legacy and his contributions to the local community.
Macy Bettwieser: A Rising Star in Broadway’s Spotlight
Hartford High School senior Macy Bettwieser has secured a coveted spot in the final round of Broadway’s Next On Stage competition, a prestigious showcase for young performers aspiring to make their mark on the professional stage. Bettwieser’s journey from a field of 250 contestants to the final five is a testament to her talent and dedication to her craft. With the support of her family, music teacher Andrea Nardone, and acclaimed author Jodi Picoult, Bettwieser’s bid for victory has garnered widespread attention.
Through her captivating performances of Broadway hits like “She Used to Be Mine,” Bettwieser has captured the hearts of audiences and earned a chance to perform at the 54 Below Live Finale in New York City. Supporters can cast their votes online to help Bettwieser clinch the top spot in this prestigious competition. Nardone urged the local community to rally behind Bettwieser, emphasizing the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that awaits the talented young performer.
As Bettwieser prepares to take the stage, her inspiring journey serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring artists and a testament to the transformative power of music in shaping lives and fulfilling dreams.
102.9 FM WEXP: A Fresh Voice in Radio
Embracing the spirit of experimentation, 102.9 FM WEXP, formerly known as WCLX, has emerged as a vibrant addition to the airwaves of the Champlain Valley. Under the stewardship of Dennis Jackson, a seasoned broadcaster with a passion for innovative radio programming, WEXP offers a diverse range of genres and shows that defy traditional radio conventions.
Featuring pop-up programming curated by local radio personalities, WEXP showcases a blend of music styles rarely found on mainstream stations. From free-form album rock to classic country hits, the station caters to diverse musical tastes and seeks to engage listeners with unique and eclectic content. With a lineup that includes ambient music, R&B, soul, and modern jazz, WEXP aims to captivate audiences seeking a fresh and distinctive radio experience.
Jackson’s vision for WEXP as a platform for creative expression and musical exploration underscores the station’s commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining the radio landscape. As listeners tune in to this dynamic new station, they embark on a sonic journey filled with surprises, discoveries, and the joy of stumbling upon hidden musical gems.
As the radio waves resonate with the sounds of WEXP, a sense of anticipation and excitement permeates the airwaves, inviting audiences to embrace the thrill of the unexpected and savor the magic of radio in its purest form.
