SacTV Music Spotlight Video History

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History of SacTV's Monthly Sacramento Music Spotlight Songs


	September 2026:Sacramento Music Spotlight: Early Times - "On The Corner" Early Times has come a long way since regularly played the Sacramento local scene in the 90s. Cafe Montreal was a small independent club where he often performed his bluesy rock music. He went on to tour the nation and landed a job as a blues show host at Sirius Satellite Radio. "On the Corner" is an upbeat jazz guitar instrumental with a laid back groove. It comes from his album Border Crossings. He now resides in New York City.

September 2026:Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Early Times - "On The Corner"
Early Times has come a long way since regularly played the Sacramento local scene in the 90s. Cafe Montreal was a small independent club where he often performed his bluesy rock music. He went on to tour the nation and landed a job as a blues show host at Sirius Satellite Radio. "On the Corner" is an upbeat jazz guitar instrumental with a laid back groove. It comes from his album Border Crossings. He now resides in New York City.


	August 2026:Sacramento Music Spotlight: Morris Knight - "Thank You" Morris Knight is a talented musician and radio host who started his radio career in Sacramento at stations KSFM and KWOD. He then moved on to San Francisco radio while pursuing his dreams as a singer/songwriter and musician. His unique sound is a blend of pop, rock and soul. He has performed as a musician in multiple Northern California bands.

August 2026:Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Morris Knight - "Thank You"
Morris Knight is a talented musician and radio host who started his radio career in Sacramento at stations KSFM and KWOD. He then moved on to San Francisco radio while pursuing his dreams as a singer/songwriter and musician. His unique sound is a blend of pop, rock and soul. He has performed as a musician in multiple Northern California bands.


	July 2026:Sacramento Music Spotlight: David Conley - "Back To Nature" "Back To Nature" by David Conley is a thoughtful song that calls attention to the environment and living within its natural contraints. Conley contributed songs to KWOD local artist compilation CDs in the 1990s and was host of the station's local music show, The Sound of Sacramento.


	June 2026:Sacramento Music Spotlight: Michael Blanchard & The Californios - "Dark Secret" Mike Blanchard stays busy with this band as well as Tattooed Love Dogs, in which he sings vocals and plays guitar. "Dark Secret" is the band's first single and sounds just as potent as his earlier work with the Tattooed Love Dogs. The band has played live gigs in Sacramento the past few years.


	May 2026:Sacramento Music Spotlight: Gabe Nelson - "Bellygunner" In 2016 Gabe Nelson appeared on The KMAX-TV morning program Good Day Sacramento, in which he said he was no longer with Cake, but was in Bellygunner. The band's 47-minute live set at Old Ironsides on August 19, 2016 can be found on YouTube. Gabe still performs locally in Sacramento.


	April 2026:Sacramento Music Spotlight: Papa Roach - "Wake Up Calling" The regional band Papa Roach released a single in 2026 called "Wake Up Calling." It's the fourth single the band has released the past few years, following their 2021 album, Ego Trip. The album, which became their 11th studio effort, featured 7 songs that were released as singles. The band is currently signed to indie label New Noize.and were previously signed to DreamWorks then Geffen and DGC.

April 2026:Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Papa Roach - "Wake Up Calling"
The regional band Papa Roach released a single in 2026 called "Wake Up Calling." It's the fourth single the band has released the past few years, following their 2021 album, Ego Trip. The album, which became their 11th studio effort, featured 7 songs that were released as singles. The band is currently signed to indie label New Noize.and were previously signed to DreamWorks then Geffen and DGC.


	March 2026:Sacramento Music Spotlight: The Bitter Elegance - "Malice In Wonderland" The Bitter Elegance is a band that performs regularly at their own home venue and recording studio. Led by vocalist Merlot, the band creates surreal music that includes far-reaching themes such as outer space. Jeffrey-Wynne Prince is the producer who helps craft their unique alternative rock sound. Since 2016 they've released three CD albums, including the 2018 album Twisting the Fairy Tale, which includes "Malice In Wonderland."

March 2026:Sacramento Music Spotlight:
The Bitter Elegance - "Malice In Wonderland"
The Bitter Elegance is a band that performs regularly at their own home venue and recording studio. Led by vocalist Merlot, the band creates surreal music that includes far-reaching themes such as outer space. Jeffrey-Wynne Prince is the producer who helps craft their unique alternative rock sound. Since 2016 they've released three CD albums, including the 2018 album Twisting the Fairy Tale, which includes "Malice In Wonderland."


	February 2026:Sacramento Music Spotlight: Kepi Ghoulie - "I Bleed Rock N Roll" Kepi Ghoulie has stayed active in the Sacramento music scene this century since His initial success with the punk/rock band Groovie Ghoulies in the 1990s. "I Bleed Rock 'N' Roll" first appeared online in 2013 and since has become a staple song for the singer/songwriter. He's gone on national tours and has come up with creative ways to sell vinyl copies of his music and expanded packaging of his earlier works.

February 2026:Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Kepi Ghoulie - "I Bleed Rock N Roll"
Kepi Ghoulie has stayed active in the Sacramento music scene this century since His initial success with the punk/rock band Groovie Ghoulies in the 1990s. "I Bleed Rock 'N' Roll" first appeared online in 2013 and since has become a staple song for the singer/songwriter. He's gone on national tours and has come up with creative ways to sell vinyl copies of his music and expanded packaging of his earlier works.


	January 2026:Sacramento Music Spotlight: 99 Tales - "Diamond" "Diamond" was one of several songs by 99 Tales played on Sacramento's first 24-hour internet radio station, SacLive in 2000. The tuneful folk/rock song has a driving inspirational sound by a band that puts a magical touch on well-blended harmonies of vocalists Vince and Kim Martini. The band's earlier song "Thursday" was a local hit on alternative rock station KWOD 106.5 in the nineties. They have continued to release albums in the 2020s.

January 2026:Sacramento Music Spotlight:
99 Tales - "Diamond"
"Diamond" was one of several songs by 99 Tales played on Sacramento's first 24-hour internet radio station, SacLive in 2000. The tuneful folk/rock song has a driving inspirational sound by a band that puts a magical touch on well-blended harmonies of vocalists Vince and Kim Martini. The band's earlier song "Thursday" was a local hit on alternative rock station KWOD 106.5 in the nineties. They have continued to release albums in the 2020s.


	December 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight: Deftones - "Infinite Source" Deftones, who have now played several After Shock Festivals at Discovery Park and many other big local shows, released a new album on Reprise/Warner in August 2025 called Private Music, which hit top 5 on the Billboard 200 album chart its first week. "Infinite Source" is a top 5 single on the U.S. rock charts from the album, played on local commercial-free station (93.3 FM) K-ZAP.org. This album marks their 10th studio release. To date they've sold over 10 million albums worldwide.

December 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Deftones - "Infinite Source"
Deftones, who have now played several After Shock Festivals at Discovery Park and many other big local shows, released a new album on Reprise/Warner in August 2025 called Private Music, which hit top 5 on the Billboard 200 album chart its first week. "Infinite Source" is a top 5 single on the U.S. rock charts from the album, played on local commercial-free station (93.3 FM) K-ZAP.org. This album marks their 10th studio release. To date they've sold over 10 million albums worldwide.


	November 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight: As Yet Untitled - "Across The Water" As Yet Untitled was a Sacramento band that performed frequently in the Downtown and Midtown areas in the nineties and earlier this century. Fronted by multi-instrumentalist Tommy Sellers, the band's song "Across The Water" got regular airplay on alternative rock station KWOD 106.5 in the nineties. It sounded like a hit that mixed in with other hits. The band was known for its eclectic and experimental rock sound.

November 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight:
As Yet Untitled - "Across The Water"
As Yet Untitled was a Sacramento band that performed frequently in the Downtown and Midtown areas in the nineties and earlier this century. Fronted by multi-instrumentalist Tommy Sellers, the band's song "Across The Water" got regular airplay on alternative rock station KWOD 106.5 in the nineties. It sounded like a hit that mixed in with other hits. The band was known for its eclectic and experimental rock sound.


	October 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight: Khloe Rose - "The In Between" Khloe Rose is a pop singer/songwriter from Placerville who has enjoyed online success with a series of tuneful songs. She's been writing songs since age 13. In the 2020s she was signed to Columbia Records and has now been seen on YouTube by millions of viewers. "The In Between" is an artfully clever song about a crumbling relationship that was the title track of her 2023 album.

October 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Khloe Rose - "The In Between"
Khloe Rose is a pop singer/songwriter from Placerville who has enjoyed online success with a series of tuneful songs. She's been writing songs since age 13. In the 2020s she was signed to Columbia Records and has now been seen on YouTube by millions of viewers. "The In Between" is an artfully clever song about a crumbling relationship that was the title track of her 2023 album.


	September 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight: Roger Smith - "My Colors" Roger Smith has been the keyboardist for Tower of Power since 1998. He has also released his own solo jazz albums since the 1990s. "My Colors" is an upbeat jazz instrumental from his 1995 album of the same name. His band has played several jazz festivals and has been featured on jazz radio stations around the country. His most recent album Just Another Day came out in 2019.

September 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Roger Smith - "My Colors"
Roger Smith has been the keyboardist for Tower of Power since 1998. He has also released his own solo jazz albums since the 1990s. "My Colors" is an upbeat jazz instrumental from his 1995 album of the same name. His band has played several jazz festivals and has been featured on jazz radio stations around the country. His most recent album Just Another Day came out in 2019.


	August 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight: Mick Martin - "Way of the World" Mick Martin released several albums with his band The Blues Rockers starting in the nineties. He did a wide mix of blues-based rock with an emphasis on groove and fun dancing. "Way of The World" is a standout track from the band's 2001 album In One Ear. The recording has a timeless sound and comments on social conditions, such as when "the whole world goes insane / and no one wants to take the blame." Meanwhile, the vision of the song is mood-lifting.

August 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Mick Martin - "Way of the World"
Mick Martin released several albums with his band The Blues Rockers starting in the nineties. He did a wide mix of blues-based rock with an emphasis on groove and fun dancing. "Way of The World" is a standout track from the band's 2001 album In One Ear. The recording has a timeless sound and comments on social conditions, such as when "the whole world goes insane / and no one wants to take the blame." Meanwhile, the vision of the song is mood-lifting.


	July 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight: Skyler's Pool - "California" Kitty O'Neal, who has worked on-air at news/talk station 1530 KFBK for decades, is also a singer/songwriter for the band Skyler's Pool. Her local restaurant chef husband, Kurt Spataro, plays guitar. Their song "California" captures the personal and social changes that the state has experienced in recent years. The band is scheduled to play live August 16, 2025 at Wildwood Cafe on Fair Oaks Boulevard near Howe Avenue from 7 to 10pm with no cover charge.

July 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Skyler's Pool - "California"
Kitty O'Neal, who has worked on-air at news/talk station 1530 KFBK for decades, is also a singer/songwriter for the band Skyler's Pool. Her local restaurant chef husband, Kurt Spataro, plays guitar. Their song "California" captures the personal and social changes that the state has experienced in recent years. The band is scheduled to play live August 16, 2025 at Wildwood Cafe on Fair Oaks Boulevard near Howe Avenue from 7 to 10pm with no cover charge.


	June 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight: Kally O'Mally - "The Wild West Medicine Show" Kally O'Mally has built a career in the healthcare industry while crafting music on the side. Her song "The Wild West Medicine Show" was the title track of her 2015 album. The song is a humorous look at 19th century "miracle cures" designed to deceive unsuspecting health patients. Originally from Ashland, Kentucky, she migrated to Sacramento in the eighties after graduating from Florida State University in Tallahassee.

June 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Kally O'Mally - "The Wild West Medicine Show"
Kally O'Mally has built a career in the healthcare industry while crafting music on the side. Her song "The Wild West Medicine Show" was the title track of her 2015 album. The song is a humorous look at 19th century "miracle cures" designed to deceive unsuspecting health patients. Originally from Ashland, Kentucky, she migrated to Sacramento in the eighties after graduating from Florida State University in Tallahassee.


	May 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight: Bourgeois Tagg - "I Don't Mind at All" The team of Brent Bourgeois and Larry Tagg hit the national top 40 in 1987 with "I Don't Mind at All." Many rock critics compared the organic sound with "Blackbird" by The Beatles. The group formed in 1984 and signed to Island Records, in which they released two albums. After that Brent pursued a solo career and had another hit called "Dare To Fall in Love" on Charisma Records in 1990.

May 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Bourgeois Tagg - "I Don't Mind at All"
The team of Brent Bourgeois and Larry Tagg hit the national top 40 in 1987 with "I Don't Mind at All." Many rock critics compared the organic sound with "Blackbird" by The Beatles. The group formed in 1984 and signed to Island Records, in which they released two albums. After that Brent pursued a solo career and had another hit called "Dare To Fall in Love" on Charisma Records in 1990.


	April 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight: Mumbo Gumbo - "Something In The Water" Mumbo Gumbo has been one of Sacramento's most eclectic bands for over 30 years. "Something In The Water" is a laid-back bluesy track from the band's 2006 album Big Smiley. The all-ages band continues to play live shows in the region including Sunday April 27, 2025 at Swabbies on the River. As of this year, the band has released nine albums. The band is fronted by Chris Webster and Tracy Walton.

April 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Mumbo Gumbo - "Something In The Water"
Mumbo Gumbo has been one of Sacramento's most eclectic bands for over 30 years. "Something In The Water" is a laid-back bluesy track from the band's 2006 album Big Smiley. The all-ages band continues to play live shows in the region including Sunday April 27, 2025 at Swabbies on the River. As of this year, the band has released nine albums. The band is fronted by Chris Webster and Tracy Walton.


	March 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight: Harley White Jr. Orchestra - "Whispering Sidewalks" One of Sacramento's most prominent jazz ensembles of the 20th & 21st centuries has been the Harley White Jr. Orchestra. Bandleader White was once signed to Elektra under the fusion group Papa's Culture in the early nineties. This song was inspired by the 1936 film of the same name starring Betty Inada (1913-2001), a Japanese American jazz singer born in Sacramento. Her story was published in this 2023 Comstock's Magazine article.

March 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Harley White Jr. Orchestra - "Whispering Sidewalks"
One of Sacramento's most prominent jazz ensembles of the 20th & 21st centuries has been the Harley White Jr. Orchestra. Bandleader White was once signed to Elektra under the fusion group Papa's Culture in the early nineties. This song was inspired by the 1936 film of the same name starring Betty Inada (1913-2001), a Japanese American jazz singer born in Sacramento. Her story was published in this 2023 Comstock's Magazine article.


	February 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight: Natalie Cortez & The Ultra Violets - "Close My Eyes" Local band Natalie Cortez & The Ultra Violets performed live in Sacramento since the nineties. Singer Cortez has a distinctive vocal that appeals to fans of organic alternative rock. They've released independent albums Twitch and 10 Who Dared. "Close My Eyes" is a dreamy indie rock song with a hauntingly nice melody. In the 2020s Natalie is lead vocalist of Natalie Cortez Band, which has played downtown at The Side Door and Torch Club.

February 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Natalie Cortez & The Ultra Violets - "Close My Eyes"
Local band Natalie Cortez & The Ultra Violets performed live in Sacramento since the nineties. Singer Cortez has a distinctive vocal that appeals to fans of organic alternative rock. They've released independent albums Twitch and 10 Who Dared. "Close My Eyes" is a dreamy indie rock song with a hauntingly nice melody. In the 2020s Natalie is lead vocalist of Natalie Cortez Band, which has played downtown at The Side Door and Torch Club.


	January 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight: Victoria Monet - "Coastin'" Victoria Monet is an award-winning R&B singer/songwriter born in 1989 from Atlanta, but moved to Sacramento as a teen. She's had national success with "Cruisin,'" which was her first entry on Billboard's R&B chart in 2021. It made #24. Since then she's collaborated with Ariana Grande and hit the top 40 with her 2023 single "On My Mama," which won two Grammy Awards and was certified Platinum. She also won a Grammy in 2024 for "Best New Artist."

January 2025:Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Victoria Monet - "Coastin'"
Victoria Monet is an award-winning R&B singer/songwriter born in 1989 from Atlanta, but moved to Sacramento as a teen. She's had national success with "Cruisin,'" which was her first entry on Billboard's R&B chart in 2021. It made #24. Since then she's collaborated with Ariana Grande and hit the top 40 with her 2023 single "On My Mama," which won two Grammy Awards and was certified Platinum. She also won a Grammy in 2024 for "Best New Artist."


	December 2024:Sacramento Music Spotlight: Cake - "Comfort Eagle" "Comfort Eagle" is the title track from Cake's 2001 album that hit #13 on the Billboard 200 album chart. Like many other songs by the band, it stands up as unique with an eternal freshness since it doesn't fit into the mold of regular corporate pop music. It sounds more like a satire of mainstream lifestyle. The song was written by singer John McCrae and the album was released by Columbia before the band returned to their indie roots. The band broke out of Sacramento in the 90s then relocated to Berkeley.

December 2024:Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Cake - "Comfort Eagle"
"Comfort Eagle" is the title track from Cake's 2001 album that hit #13 on the Billboard 200 album chart. Like many other songs by the band, it stands up as unique with an eternal freshness since it doesn't fit into the mold of regular corporate pop music. It sounds more like a satire of mainstream lifestyle. The song was written by singer John McCrae and the album was released by Columbia before the band returned to their indie roots. The band broke out of Sacramento in the 90s then relocated to Berkeley.


	November 2024:Sacramento Music Spotlight: The Mother Hips - "Hey Emilie" "Hey Emilie" was a track from the 1993 album Back To The Grotto, which was an independent release. It got substantial airplay on alternative station KWOD from 1994 to 1996. During that time the band secured a major record deal on American Recordings, a Warner label owned by Rick Rubin. Chris Robinson of The Black Crowes helped them get their deal. The band recorded two albums for the label before they were dropped. Singer Tim Bluhm and others attending Chico State University formed the band in 1990.

November 2024:Sacramento Music Spotlight:
The Mother Hips - "Hey Emilie"
"Hey Emilie" was a track from the 1993 album Back To The Grotto, which was an independent release. It got substantial airplay on alternative station KWOD from 1994 to 1996. During that time the band secured a major record deal on American Recordings, a Warner label owned by Rick Rubin. Chris Robinson of The Black Crowes helped them get their deal. The band recorded two albums for the label before they were dropped. Singer Tim Bluhm and others attending Chico State University formed the band in 1990.


	October 2024: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Tesla - "Modern Day Cowboy" "Modern Day Cowboy" was the first hit for Tesla on the national scene. The band formed in 1982 as City Kidd and became a regular attraction at Oasis Ballroom. In 1986 they were signed to Geffen then had a string of national pop and rock hits for the next decade. This single, from the band's debut album Mechanical Resonance, was released in December 1986. It was written by Jeff Keith, Frank Hannon and Tommy Skeoch.

October 2024: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Tesla - "Modern Day Cowboy"
"Modern Day Cowboy" was the first hit for Tesla on the national scene. The band formed in 1982 as City Kidd and became a regular attraction at Oasis Ballroom. In 1986 they were signed to Geffen then had a string of national pop and rock hits for the next decade. This single, from the band's debut album Mechanical Resonance, was released in December 1986. It was written by Jeff Keith, Frank Hannon and Tommy Skeoch.


	September 2024: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Caron Vikre - "Sunshine" Caron Vikre and singing partner Wayne Hueners had a local hit as Crayon in 1980 due to airplay on top 40 station KXOA AM for the single "Carry Me Back." They were produced by Dave Houston, who in 1982 produced "Sunshine," also by Crayon. It's an upbeat song that could've also been a hit, but by then KXOA had changed format. Vikre continued to record original music as a solo artist for the next several decades.

September 2024: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Caron Vikre - "Sunshine"
Caron Vikre and singing partner Wayne Hueners had a local hit as Crayon in 1980 due to airplay on top 40 station KXOA AM for the single "Carry Me Back." They were produced by Dave Houston, who in 1982 produced "Sunshine," also by Crayon. It's an upbeat song that could've also been a hit, but by then KXOA had changed format. Vikre continued to record original music as a solo artist for the next several decades.


	August 2024: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Cake - "Jolene" "Jolene" was a hit on alternative station KWOD 106.5 in the 90s. It was one of several tracks that was played in regular rotation from the band's debut album Motorcade of Generosity. The band developed a large local following through many shows at places such as the Cattle Club. The indie album was recorded at Pus Cavern in 1993 then released on Capricorn Records in February 1994. The album is a mix of minimalism and deep variety that crosses several genres.

August 2024: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Cake - "Jolene"
"Jolene" was a hit on alternative station KWOD 106.5 in the 90s. It was one of several tracks that was played in regular rotation from the band's debut album Motorcade of Generosity. The band developed a large local following through many shows at places such as the Cattle Club. The indie album was recorded at Pus Cavern in 1993 then released on Capricorn Records in February 1994. The album is a mix of minimalism and deep variety that crosses several genres.


	July 2024: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Anton Barbeau - "Magazine Street" Anton Barbeau regularly played the local Sacramento scene in the early 90s. He released multiple albums before moving to Europe, where he released several more albums. His tuneful songwriting got him early airplay on KWOD starting in 1992, when the station launched the local show "Sound of Sacramento." Anton's music is generally creative and outside the mainstream, although "Magazine Street," which sometimes got played in regular rotation on KWOD, had the sound of a tuneful alternative hit in the vein of XTC.

July 2024: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Anton Barbeau - "Magazine Street"
Anton Barbeau regularly played the local Sacramento scene in the early 90s. He released multiple albums before moving to Europe, where he released several more albums. His tuneful songwriting got him early airplay on KWOD starting in 1992, when the station launched the local show "Sound of Sacramento." Anton's music is generally creative and outside the mainstream, although "Magazine Street," which sometimes got played in regular rotation on KWOD, had the sound of a tuneful alternative hit in the vein of XTC.


	June 2024: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Roger Voudouris - "Radio Dream" Roger Voudouris scored a national hit in 1979 with the disco-flavored single "Get Used To It" from the album Radio Dream on Warner Bros. Records. The single barely missed the top 20 in America, but made top 5 in Australia. Meanwhile, the album got up to 171 on the Billboard 200. He put out a followup album in 1980, then moved to Boardwalk Records for one more album. Voudouris attended McClatchy High in the mid-seventies and later taught music lessons at Skip's Music. He passed away in 2003 from liver disease at the age of 48.

June 2024: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Roger Voudouris - "Radio Dream"
Roger Voudouris scored a national hit in 1979 with the disco-flavored single "Get Used To It" from the album Radio Dream on Warner Bros. Records. The single barely missed the top 20 in America, but made top 5 in Australia. Meanwhile, the album got up to 171 on the Billboard 200. He put out a followup album in 1980, then moved to Boardwalk Records for one more album. Voudouris attended McClatchy High in the mid-seventies and later taught music lessons at Skip's Music. He passed away in 2003 from liver disease at the age of 48.


	May 2024: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Kak - "Lemonaide Kid" Kak was a psychedelic rock band from Davis, CA in the late sixties. Headed by Gary Lee Yoder, they were signed to Epic Records and released one self-titled album in 1968. Yoder previously had a deal with his band Oxford Circle on Mercury Records. The song "Lemonaide Kid" stands up as timeless dreamy art. It was played on freeform station KZAP, which launched the same year. Yoder died at age 75 in 2021.

May 2024: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Kak - "Lemonaide Kid"
Kak was a psychedelic rock band from Davis, CA in the late sixties. Headed by Gary Lee Yoder, they were signed to Epic Records and released one self-titled album in 1968. Yoder previously had a deal with his band Oxford Circle on Mercury Records. The song "Lemonaide Kid" stands up as timeless dreamy art. It was played on freeform station KZAP, which launched the same year. Yoder died at age 75 in 2021.


	April 2024: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Cause and Effect - "It's Over Now" Cause and Effect were once based in Sacramento in the early nineties and then moved to Seattle by the mid-nineties. The group was signed to Zoo Entertainment and had a national hit with "You Think You Know Her" in 1992. Alternative station KWOD 106.5 played several other tracks by the band. Following the death of keyboardist Sean Rowley, singer Rob Rowe moved to Seattle and had another national hit with "It's Over Now" in 1994.

April 2024: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Cause and Effect - "It's Over Now"
Cause and Effect were once based in Sacramento in the early nineties and then moved to Seattle by the mid-nineties. The group was signed to Zoo Entertainment and had a national hit with "You Think You Know Her" in 1992. Alternative station KWOD 106.5 played several other tracks by the band. Following the death of keyboardist Sean Rowley, singer Rob Rowe moved to Seattle and had another national hit with "It's Over Now" in 1994.


	March 2024: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Game Theory - "My Free Ride" Game Theory was a Davis band headed by the late singer/songwriter/guitarist Scott Miller. The band was known in Northern California and beyond as unique underground innovators. They moved to the San Francisco Bay Area in 1985 after releasing three independent albums, leading to deals with Enigma then Alias Records. They recorded through 1990. "My Free Ride" appeared on the band's 2020 compilation album Across the Barrier of Sound: PostScript.

March 2024: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Game Theory - "My Free Ride"
Game Theory was a Davis band headed by the late singer/songwriter/guitarist Scott Miller. The band was known in Northern California and beyond as unique underground innovators. They moved to the San Francisco Bay Area in 1985 after releasing three independent albums, leading to deals with Enigma then Alias Records. They recorded through 1990. "My Free Ride" appeared on the band's 2020 compilation album Across the Barrier of Sound: PostScript.


	February 2024: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Thin White Rope - "Red Sun" Thin White Rope was an innovative Davis rock band that played together from 1984 to 1992. First they were signed to indie label Frontier then picked up by major label RCA. "Red Sun" appeared on their 1988 album In The Spanish Cave. The group was led by Guy Kyser on vocals and Roger Kunkel on guitar. Kunkel went on to form Acme Rocket Quartet.

February 2024: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Thin White Rope - "Red Sun"
Thin White Rope was an innovative Davis rock band that played together from 1984 to 1992. First they were signed to indie label Frontier then picked up by major label RCA. "Red Sun" appeared on their 1988 album In The Spanish Cave. The group was led by Guy Kyser on vocals and Roger Kunkel on guitar. Kunkel went on to form Acme Rocket Quartet.


	January 2024: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Charlie Peacock - "It's Gone, It's Over" Charlie Peacock made his mark in Sacramento before moving to Nashville to run his own record label in 1989. He was originally born in Yuba City then attended Sac State University in the 70s. His jazz band played in Sacramento for over a decade and recorded albums for A&M Records. Under EMI's Capitol Music Group he produces music for his label re:think.

January 2024: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Charlie Peacock - "It's Gone, It's Over"
Charlie Peacock made his mark in Sacramento before moving to Nashville to run his own record label in 1989. He was originally born in Yuba City then attended Sac State University in the 70s. His jazz band played in Sacramento for over a decade and recorded albums for A&M Records. Under EMI's Capitol Music Group he produces music for his label re:think.


	December 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Ken Koenig - "Winter of Innocence" Ken Koenig has performed in the Sacramento area throughout this century with a mix of familiar covers and his own originals. His soulful rock style is easy to absorb with an emphasis on melodic lyrics. "Winter of Innocence" has the feel of a modern sensual ballad. It was released on his third album The Organic Life in 2012. His latest album, Falworth, was released in 2019. Ken's music has multi-generational appeal, especially for people who enjoy pop/rock music from the sixties and seventies.

December 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Ken Koenig - "Winter of Innocence"
Ken Koenig has performed in the Sacramento area throughout this century with a mix of familiar covers and his own originals. His soulful rock style is easy to absorb with an emphasis on melodic lyrics. "Winter of Innocence" has the feel of a modern sensual ballad. It was released on his third album The Organic Life in 2012. His latest album, Falworth, was released in 2019. Ken's music has multi-generational appeal, especially for people who enjoy pop/rock music from the sixties and seventies.


	November 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Mumbo Gumbo - "Love Birds" Well known to the Sacramento community, eclectic band Mumbo Gumbo has been on the region's radar since the early nineties. "Love Birds" came out in 1994. The 7-piece band's diverse sound covers folk, rock, blues, country, soul and a sense of unique cultures from around the world. Generally classified as Americana, the band appeals to music fans who love organic sounds. They've been exposed to large audiences through high-profile festivals and TV coverage, such as on KCRA 3. In spring 2024 they are on the bill for the Strawberry Music Festival at Nevada County Fairgrounds in Grass Valley.

November 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Mumbo Gumbo - "Love Birds"
Well known to the Sacramento community, eclectic band Mumbo Gumbo has been on the region's radar since the early nineties. "Love Birds" came out in 1994. The 7-piece band's diverse sound covers folk, rock, blues, country, soul and a sense of unique cultures from around the world. Generally classified as Americana, the band appeals to music fans who love organic sounds. They've been exposed to large audiences through high-profile festivals and TV coverage, such as on KCRA 3. In spring 2024 they are on the bill for the Strawberry Music Festival at Nevada County Fairgrounds in Grass Valley.


	October 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Cake - "The Distance" Most Sacramentans have heard of Cake since they formed in 1991, as they've had national success with a series of albums that began in 1994. Their second album called Fashion Nugget put them on the charts with the track "The Distance" in 1996. It was a top ten hit on alternative rock stations such as KWOD, in which it was number one for several weeks. KWOD's initial airplay helped influence other stations to start playing the band. Since then, they've had a number one album called Showroom of Compassion in 2011 on their own indie label called Upbeat Records.

October 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Cake - "The Distance"
Most Sacramentans have heard of Cake since they formed in 1991, as they've had national success with a series of albums that began in 1994. Their second album called Fashion Nugget put them on the charts with the track "The Distance" in 1996. It was a top ten hit on alternative rock stations such as KWOD, in which it was number one for several weeks. KWOD's initial airplay helped influence other stations to start playing the band. Since then, they've had a number one album called Showroom of Compassion in 2011 on their own indie label called Upbeat Records.


	September 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight: The Mother Hips - "When We Disappear" Originally based in Chico, The Mother Hips have been rocking Northern California crowds for decades. In the 1990s they were signed to American Recordings, a division of Warner Brothers. The band was regularly played on alternative station KWOD 106.5. Since then they've returned to being an indie regional band that has continued to release recordings through this century. "When We Disappear" is the title track of the band's 12th album released in 2023, capturing their unique Americana sound.

September 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
The Mother Hips - "When We Disappear"
Originally based in Chico, The Mother Hips have been rocking Northern California crowds for decades. In the 1990s they were signed to American Recordings, a division of Warner Brothers. The band was regularly played on alternative station KWOD 106.5. Since then they've returned to being an indie regional band that has continued to release recordings through this century. "When We Disappear" is the title track of the band's 12th album released in 2023, capturing their unique Americana sound.


	August 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight: 7 Seconds - "See You Tomorrow" Kevin Seconds was the mastermind behind punk rock group 7 Seconds, which surfaced in Reno in the early 1980s. Kevin moved to Sacramento by the nineties, as the band was signed to Sony. Since then he and his wife Allyson have played shows together in local venues. "See You Tomorrow" was played on local alternative station KWOD 106.5 in the mid-nineties. The following decade Kevin did local spotlight features on KWOD.

August 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
7 Seconds - "See You Tomorrow"
Kevin Seconds was the mastermind behind punk rock group 7 Seconds, which surfaced in Reno in the early 1980s. Kevin moved to Sacramento by the nineties, as the band was signed to Sony. Since then he and his wife Allyson have played shows together in local venues. "See You Tomorrow" was played on local alternative station KWOD 106.5 in the mid-nineties. The following decade Kevin did local spotlight features on KWOD.


	July 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Skyler's Pool - "Sunflowers" Skyler's Pool Skyler's Pool is a Sacramento band headed by radio host Kitty O'Neal from KFBK 1530 AM. The band has existed for several years and has played live shows in 2023, including at Wildwood Kitchen & Bar in June. This song was released in June 2023. It captures the spirit of classic melodic pop music while paying tribute to the Golden State. The band features Kitty's husband Kurt Spataro on guitar and local singer/songwriter Lori Sacco-Nelson on keyboards and percussion. Other members include drummer Ben B. Harvey and bassist Rob LoRusso.

July 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Skyler's Pool - "Sunflowers"
Skyler's Pool Skyler's Pool is a Sacramento band headed by radio host Kitty O'Neal from KFBK 1530 AM. The band has existed for several years and has played live shows in 2023, including at Wildwood Kitchen & Bar in June. This song was released in June 2023. It captures the spirit of classic melodic pop music while paying tribute to the Golden State. The band features Kitty's husband Kurt Spataro on guitar and local singer/songwriter Lori Sacco-Nelson on keyboards and percussion. Other members include drummer Ben B. Harvey and bassist Rob LoRusso.


	June 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Papa's Culture - "Sometimes" Papa's Culture was a Sacramento music group led by producers/songwriters E. Blake Davis and Harley White, Jr. in the early nineties, signed to major label Island Records then Elektra Records, which released one album called Papa's Culture, but ... by the eclectic act, which had an alternative hip-hop sound. Several local musicians played on the album, such as Henry Robinette on guitar. "Sometimes" was one of a dozen tracks on the Papa's Culture album.

June 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Papa's Culture - "Sometimes"
Papa's Culture was a Sacramento music group led by producers/songwriters E. Blake Davis and Harley White, Jr. in the early nineties, signed to major label Island Records then Elektra Records, which released one album called Papa's Culture, but ... by the eclectic act, which had an alternative hip-hop sound. Several local musicians played on the album, such as Henry Robinette on guitar. "Sometimes" was one of a dozen tracks on the Papa's Culture album.


	May 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Timothy B. Schmit - "I Can't Tell You Why" The Eagles are among the best selling American bands of all time. In 1979 the band introduced a new voice and bassist, Timothy B. Schmit from Sacramento for The Long Run album. His songwriting and vocal contribution to the album was "I Can't Tell You Why," which became a top ten hit in 1980. Schmit had previously been a member of local band Redwing after attending Encina High in the sixties. Since the eighties he has released several solo albums and remains active making music.

May 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Timothy B. Schmit - "I Can't Tell You Why"
The Eagles are among the best selling American bands of all time. In 1979 the band introduced a new voice and bassist, Timothy B. Schmit from Sacramento for The Long Run album. His songwriting and vocal contribution to the album was "I Can't Tell You Why," which became a top ten hit in 1980. Schmit had previously been a member of local band Redwing after attending Encina High in the sixties. Since the eighties he has released several solo albums and remains active making music.


	April 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Deftones - "Minerva" Deftones are among Sacramento's heaviest-sounding bands in history to reach national status and sell albums in the millions. They began their journey in the early 90s and were signed by the middle of the decade to Madonna's Warner-backed label, Maverick Records. By 2000 the band, led by Chino Moreno, was playing large arenas and developing a successful track record of inventive alternative rock albums with tracks that gained national airplay. "Minerva" was a single from the band's 2003 self-titled album, their fourth release.

April 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Deftones - "Minerva"
Deftones are among Sacramento's heaviest-sounding bands in history to reach national status and sell albums in the millions. They began their journey in the early 90s and were signed by the middle of the decade to Madonna's Warner-backed label, Maverick Records. By 2000 the band, led by Chino Moreno, was playing large arenas and developing a successful track record of inventive alternative rock albums with tracks that gained national airplay. "Minerva" was a single from the band's 2003 self-titled album, their fourth release.


	March 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Club Nouveau - "Situation #9" Club Nouveau was Jay King's R&B project in Sacramento starting in the 80s before he had a few major hit records then moved to Los Angeles. His cover of the Bill Withers classic "Lean On Me" hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1986. The album, released by Warner, was called Life, Love and Pain. The band was played on the hit music stations at that time, KSFM and KWOD. "Situation #9" was a track from the album and a single that got significant club play and radio airplay locally.

March 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Club Nouveau - "Situation #9"
Club Nouveau was Jay King's R&B project in Sacramento starting in the 80s before he had a few major hit records then moved to Los Angeles. His cover of the Bill Withers classic "Lean On Me" hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1986. The album, released by Warner, was called Life, Love and Pain. The band was played on the hit music stations at that time, KSFM and KWOD. "Situation #9" was a track from the album and a single that got significant club play and radio airplay locally.


	February 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Tesla - "Love Song" Tesla made history in the 20th century as Sacramento's all-time most successful recording act, selling over 15 million records. They began as City Kidd playing covers back in the 80s, then were signed to Geffen. The band's popularity escalated nationally when they opened for Poison in 1989 and had the top five hit "Love Song." They began getting airplay in 1987 with "Modern Day Cowboy."

February 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Tesla - "Love Song"
Tesla made history in the 20th century as Sacramento's all-time most successful recording act, selling over 15 million records. They began as City Kidd playing covers back in the 80s, then were signed to Geffen. The band's popularity escalated nationally when they opened for Poison in 1989 and had the top five hit "Love Song." They began getting airplay in 1987 with "Modern Day Cowboy."


	January 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Papa Roach - "Last Resort" Papa Roach is a band that originated from Vacaville, formed in 1993. The band was featured on local music shows on KRXQ and KWOD as it developed a following in the Sacramento area throughout 90s. Led by Jacoby Shaddix, the alternative rock band signed with DreamWorks Records in 1999 then had a massive alternative/rock hit in 2000 with "Last Resort" from the triple-platinum album Infest. Since then Papa Roach has sold several million albums and has gone on national tours. The band is currently on indie label New Noize and is still active.

January 2023: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Papa Roach - "Last Resort"
Papa Roach is a band that originated from Vacaville, formed in 1993. The band was featured on local music shows on KRXQ and KWOD as it developed a following in the Sacramento area throughout 90s. Led by Jacoby Shaddix, the alternative rock band signed with DreamWorks Records in 1999 then had a massive alternative/rock hit in 2000 with "Last Resort" from the triple-platinum album Infest. Since then Papa Roach has sold several million albums and has gone on national tours. The band is currently on indie label New Noize and is still active.


	December 2022: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Bougeois Tagg - "Mutual Surrender" Brent Bourgeois and Larry Tagg formed the nucleus of Bourgeois Tagg in the 1980s, along with Lyle Workman, Michael Urbano and Scott Moon. The band's first appearance on the national charts was "Mutual Surrender (What a Wonderful World)" on Island Records in 1986. They went on to have the top 40 hit "I Don't Mind at All" in 1987.

December 2022: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Bougeois Tagg - "Mutual Surrender"
Brent Bourgeois and Larry Tagg formed the nucleus of Bourgeois Tagg in the 1980s, along with Lyle Workman, Michael Urbano and Scott Moon. The band's first appearance on the national charts was "Mutual Surrender (What a Wonderful World)" on Island Records in 1986. They went on to have the top 40 hit "I Don't Mind at All" in 1987.


	November 2022: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Spiral Starecase - "More Today Than Yesterday" Spiral Starecase became famous after moving from Sacramento to Los Angeles in the late sixties. "More Today Than Yesterday" was their biggest hit on Columbia Records. The band, originally called the Fydallions until they were signed, was fronted by Pat Upton, who had a distinctive jazz-influenced vocal style. He died in 2016 at age 75.

November 2022: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Spiral Starecase - "More Today Than Yesterday"
Spiral Starecase became famous after moving from Sacramento to Los Angeles in the late sixties. "More Today Than Yesterday" was their biggest hit on Columbia Records. The band, originally called the Fydallions until they were signed, was fronted by Pat Upton, who had a distinctive jazz-influenced vocal style. He died in 2016 at age 75.


	October 2022: Sacramento Music Spotlight: Oleander - "Why I'm Here" Led by Thomas Flowers, Oleander was signed out of Sacramento to Universal/Republic Records in the late nineties. "Why I'm Here" from their debut album February Son became a top ten alternative rock hit in 1999. One of their biggest shows was appearing at Woodstock 99. They've also placed songs in major films such as American Pie and Scary Movie.

October 2022: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Oleander - "Why I'm Here"
Led by Thomas Flowers, Oleander was signed out of Sacramento to Universal/Republic Records in the late nineties. "Why I'm Here" from their debut album February Son became a top ten alternative rock hit in 1999. One of their biggest shows was appearing at Woodstock 99. They've also placed songs in major films such as American Pie and Scary Movie.

September 2022: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Cake - "Rock and Roll Lifestyle"
Prior to Cake breaking music on the charts in 1996 with "The Distance" on Capricorn Records, they were played heavily on hometown Sacramento station KWOD 106.5. Their first hit on the station was "Rock and Roll Lifestyle" from the album Motorcade of Generosity. KWOD played multiple tracks from the album as well as the follow-up effort Fashion Nugget. The band, which for awhile was signed to Columbia, has sold millions of albums nationally.

August 2022: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Steel Breeze - "You Don't Want Me Anymore"
Steel Breeze is celebrating its 40th anniversary of their biggest national hit "You Don't Want Me Anymore." The band was signed to RCA Records, but only saw widespread airplay for a few singles. The lead vocalist was Ric Jacobs. Some of the members also played in local band The Features. Steel Breeze went on to release four more albums.

July 2022: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Carla Fleming - "Weapons Down"
Carla Fleming is one of Sacramento's leading R&B singer/songwriters. Originally from Chicago, she moved to Sacramento in the early nineties and began recording music. "Weapons Down" came out in 2013 and was based on the Sandy Hook incident in which a classroom of children were murdered by a young gunman. From the Domestic Disturbance album, it's a song calling for an end to violence. Several other songs by Carla have a social theme, as well as songs about emotional life experiences.

June 2022: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Crayon - "Carry Me Back"
"Carry Me Back" by Crayon was a local radio hit in the summer of 1980 on top 40 station 1470 KXOA AM. Produced by David Houston at Moon Studios, Crayon's lead singer was Caron Vikre, who went on to record solo albums and became more involved with the local music scene. She sang harmony with Wayne Hueners. Her 2013 SacTV interview tapped into insights about her musical journey and ambitions as a writer. In the 90s she regularly performed at clubs such as Melarkey's and Cafe Montreal.

May 2022: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Henry Robinett - "What If I Go Sailing"
Henry Robinett is one of Sacramento's most accomplished jazz musicians. He has released several recordings starting in the eighties. Robinett is a master of jazz improvisation on both guitar and piano. He has spread his knowledge of music as a college professor at University of The Pacific (UOP) in Stockton. "What If I Go Sailing" is a soothing guitar instrumental that was released in 2016.

April 2022: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Fanny Walked The Earth - "Lured Away"
Fanny Walked the Earth is a Sacramento band that represents the aftermath of legendary band Fanny. Formed in the early sixties by sisters June and Jean Millington, the band relocated to Los Angeles in 1969 after they were signed by Reprise Records. They made history by being the first all-female band to release a rock album on a major label. Known for originals and covers, the band has continued to release new material this century.

March 2022: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Kally O'Mally - "The Institution"
Kally O'Mally is an educator and music creator. She has performed many live shows in Sacramento with her sister Ally, mixing covers with originals. Kally's unique songwriting style augmented with rich harmonies makes her songs memorable. "The Institution," released in 2015, is a catchy song with vivid lyrics pointing to how modern culture is shaped by institutions.

February 2022: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Kepi Ghoulie - "Winning Combination"
Kepi Ghoulie made his initial splash in Sacramento during the 1990s with the punk/party band The Groovy Ghoulies. In recent years he has released solo recordings. "Winning Combination" is an uplifting rocker released in 2022 as a 7" vinyl 45-rpm record. Other musicians include Eric Bianchi, Steve Randall, Steve Amaral and Tom 2000.

January 2022: Sacramento Music Spotlight:
Lynn Anderson - "Rose Garden"
Raised in Carmichael, country superstar Lynn Anderson at one time answered phones at Sacramento radio station 1240 KROY in the sixties. After winning a song competition, she and her family moved to Nashville. From there Lynn was signed to Columbia Records and had the megahit "Rose Garden" in 1970. She went on to sell millions of records and had dozens of country hits.