Psych ‘n Soul
Thursdays | 4:00pm-6:00pm

James Randall
Host
Why did you pick that name for your program?
“The popular music of the late ’60s was mainly psychedelic and soul. These were the descendants of Rockabilly and R&B, which fused to create Rock n Roll in the ’50s. Thus, Psych ‘n Soul. That time period is the main focus of the show.”
What can listeners expect on “Psych ‘n Soul”?
“From 4pm to 5pm, listeners will hear 45rpm records played, in the style of commercial radio. That is, although most of the songs are obscure today, they are repeated often over the course of a year. Commercial radio is successful in many ways because of the repetition of the music. From 5pm to 6pm we explore Spotify, listening to songs that were influenced by the music of the ’60s, as well as hearing songs I do not own on 45.”
What do you hope to accomplish with “Psych ‘n Soul”?
“I want others to be able to hear how great these songs are. I think that, in a post-modern milieu, playing old 45s on community radio is a type of fine art, a performance art itself, and that from the perspective of future generations these songs could end up being just as famous as ones that were famous in their time, or more so. Consider, for instance, the Brandenburg concertos or Schubert’s “Unfinished” Symphony, #8.”
How long has your program been on the air at WAPJ?
“Since the fall of 2019.”
Were you in radio before WAPJ?
“I spent a fair amount of time at the college radio station in Storrs when I was younger, but this is my first show, personally.”
If listeners could learn one thing about you, what would that be?
“I am a very private person. What they hear from me is who I am. I feel like Klimt, who said something to the effect of “if you want to know who I am, look at the surface of my paintings.” I love music, and I see sound in shapes and colors. I have synesthesia. I’m telling stories in the emotional content of the songs I play.”
Is there anything else you’d like to share with your listeners?
“I’m very approachable and I like talking to people, especially about music.”
How can listeners contact you?
“I am on Instagram, psychnsoul_wapj.”