Join your friends at KZSM for a fabulous 50s Sock Hop on Saturday, July 19, 7 to 9 p.m. at the VFW Hall, located at 1701 Hunter Road. John Michael and the Retro Cats will take you on “an energetic ride down memory lane when life was just a little cooler” with a lively mix of original music inspired by the classic rock of the 50s and 60s and hits from the greatest artists of that era. We’re planning refreshments, a raffle and some surprises. Check out my July 13 column, your favorite social media, and of course 104.1 FM and KZSM.org for more details as plans unfold.
John Michael first connected with Elvis Presley when he was only six or seven and began playing his music and other songs from that era not long after. A chance meeting with Rob Roark led to a radio debut on “Revolving Door” (Sundays 5 to 7 p.m.) for “Little Elvis,” also known as “the Buda Kid,” at age twelve. His performance at the Sock Hop will support KZSM, where regular appearances since that 2018 debut have supported his remarkable development as a musician. “This will certainly be something he is doing from his heart to give back,” his manager Sheri Swartz explained.
John Michael is one of many artists who have shared their music and built their following through performing and conversing live in our studio. For instance, “Highway 361” (Fridays noon to 1 p.m.) features both local country artists and touring groups promoting their performances in our area; “Uncharted Frequences” (Thursdays 3 to 4 p.m.) showcases artists who might not be heard anywhere else.
KZSM also celebrates the music with events. For several years between 2017 and 2024, we presented live concerts in the Kissing Alley, featuring a range of music from popular local artists and a yearly performance by students from the San Marcos school district. Veteran DJ Metal Mark Moniz has hosted many marathon Metal Fests in venues around town. For the past two years, we’ve celebrated our very creative community with the San Marcos Music Awards, a magical event that succeeded beyond our imaginings.
Now, we need your help to keep the music playing! Mark the date on your calendar and plan to enjoy an escape into the past and support your True Community Radio Station at the same time. Or share a raffle item. Or just hit the Donate button at KZSM.org and keep the music on.
