Great radio station in the USA Love listening to Kpfa go check out Kpfa radio in Barkley California

Seriously good programs and journalism. Other stations would do well to listen in and learn.

You gotta love a left leaning radio station that snipes at NPR for having an agenda. It's like Lenin criticizing Trotsky. The enemy of my enemy. read more

KPFA is the only honest news source in the Bay Area. Supported by the people to provide unbiased, trustworthy, truthful news to the comunity. The honesty of this beautiful news source comes to light when you hear them covering Palestinian human rights issue, topic other mainstream media cover with biased view points(pretty much all other news/media sources in the Bay especially KQED radio). Pleases support this great station read more

I couldn't live without KPFA, but I could sure live without it! KPFA has great musical programing--diverse, high-quality, lots of live recordings (oxymoron, isn't it?). It also has many interesting regular programs. I like the morning show, barely tolerate Amy Goodman's and can't stand Kevin Bernstein's lunatic mewlings. I might be a conspiracy theorist, but I'm not a whiny bot. I'm a leftist but not a lock-step liberal guilt-bag. That's the problem with KPFA -- great news, I like their general politics, but the whole guilty whitey thing is rather limiting. They'd be more radical if they were a little more, ahem, diverse in their opinions. 5 Stars for music, 3 for news coverage, 1 for the annoyance factor. read more

I got into Pacifica (specifically Democracy Now!) around 2000. At the time, I lived in Southern California, so I listened mostly to KPFK, which was the second Pacifica station (after KPFA). I followed the turmoil of that time pretty closely and actually got involved in some of the L.A.-area protests. From what I knew of KPFA, I was impressed. Here were a bunch of activists who cared enough about their station to prevent it from being hijacked. When I moved to San Francisco in 2003, I expected to spend most of my radio time tuned to KPFA, as I had spent most of my radio time in SoCal tuned to KPFK. I did listen often, but I was really disappointed by a lot of the programming. There are some excellent programs, and the KPFA Evening News is really in depth and interesting, but for the most part, the station lacks substance. Now, let me qualify that last statement by pointing out that I'm comparing KPFA to an ideal I had in my head, one that KPFK comes close to fitting. KPFA is better than most radio stations in the Bay Area, including KQED, and it's kind of a tie with KALW in terms of having interesting shows. If I had to specify my beef with KPFA, it would be that it seems rather amateurish for the flagship station in the Pacifica chain. I'm not talking about engineering; I'm talking about the way the programming is set up (the order of the schedule) and the attitudes of some of the programmers themselves. I love angry, opinionated people, but the ones I love most are the ones who are the most persuasive in their arguments. The epitome of the unpersuasive KPFA programmer is Dennis Bernstein. I agree with most of what the guy says, but if I had to spend any time with him, I'd probably hate him. He just yells and screams. Yes, I'm angry about injustice too, but that doesn't mean I want to hear other people lose their voices over the air. I like the idea of Hard Knock Radio, but so much of that program takes very simplistic looks at complex situations. Combine that with an intro that takes up four minutes of valuable show time, and you have a mediocre show that often can't decide whether it wants to talk about issues or music. (I'm fine with both, but be more judicious in your balancing of the two.) Although I live in San Francisco, I'm still a supporter of KPFK because, well, it's a better station. And KPFA has the longest, most annoying fund drives I've ever heard, and I listen to a lot of listener-supported radio stations. read more

KPFA has revolutionized radio. This station is the means of communication for folks of color, working folks, homeless folks, marginalized folks basically those who are not represented in main stream media. While mainstream news have focused on "news-worthy" stories like on Suri Cruise and Brad and Angelina, KPFA continued reporting about the struggles of folks in this country and around the world. They were the only station who reported the overthrow of the President Aristide in Haiti, the genocide in Darfur, report on progress of World Social Forum, and the struggles of folks war torn countries in the Middle East. KPFA is probably one of a few radio stations out there that has not been taken over by the talking heads of the corporate media. This gives me hope in the world. read more

What to say about this gem? KPFA is the first listener-supported radio station in the United States and hence it's the longest running. It's got a fantastic lineup of programs bringing you news and viewpoints you won't ever, ever, find in the mainstream media. Awesome shows of note: Flash Points, Against the Grain, Bay Native Circle, Free Speech Radio News, Counterspin, Hard Knock Radio, Making Contact, Letters and Politics, and Guns & Butter. This is quite honestly the most important radio station I can think of. Listen online if you're not in the area. Donate if you can and become a member. KPFA is a vital beacon of freedom of the press - keep it alive. read more

There's been a major uprising at KPFA... and not just because they broadcast Uprising from Los Angeles. The morning show staff has been summarily dismissed by the leads at Pacifica. The best shows on KPFA are endangered, and they're doing an emergency fund drive. The shows from LA are interesting.... but they're not local, from the Bay Area. There are still great shows like Herbal Highway (with its soothing host), Against the Grain, Democracy Now! (the flagship show with Amy Goodman), and the Visionary Activist Show that manages to blend mythology, astrology, and current events with the turquoise-haired Caroline Casey of Coyote News Network. She is indeed the Weaver of Context. The current status of KPFA is in doubt. Yikes. read more

This review is specifically for the "Sideshow Radio" segment which airs on Saturday mornings from midnight till 2am. I met Chill Statis at an event in North Oakland back in August. After conversing for a few moments, he quickly invited me to come on the show for an interview to talk about my photography. I took him up on that offer. This weekend, I made the short trip to Berkeley. Since I arrivedearly, I hung out in the lobby. Shortly thereafter, a few more interviewees came in. Although I didn't know them, we all conversed and actually had a really good time mingling with eachother. Soon after that, the interviews began. At roughly 1am, it was my turn. My videographer and I went into the studio and waited for the interview to begin. The interview was conducted by Chill Statis and two other people, Aquelia and forgive me for not remembering the gentleman's name. Before I knew it, we were on the air! I've been interviewed many times and I must say: this one was very comfortable. It didn't seem like I was being asked the typical generic questions that sound like they're just being read to me. Instead, it was very casual and organic. The interview itself lasted a little over 5 minutes. I brought my videographer along since I'll be putting together a video of the interview for promotional purposes. Since he was positioned in the room with me, he couldn't hear the audio from the interviewers (they're in a separate room). Chill Statis and his crew quickly instructed us on how to retrieve the entire interview's audio from the internet. After that was done, we spoke for a few minutes, took some photos and wrapped up the night. This radio show is run as a non-profit. Nonetheless, they still give people like myself a chance to speak about our art. That is a blessing. Thank you KPFA. read more

I signed up to do the First Voice Apprenticeship Program. That was the first mistake. I had a friend that warned me that is station has ISSUES. I should have listened to my friend. I can't begin to tell you all how messed up this Program is. It does alot for people but if you are not liked they will kick you out of the program (even after you've been there for a year). They tried to kick out 4of my group members, including me I don't know how I can convey that this program is horrible! First, they don't tell you ,but in order to have an apprenticeship there you must have a part time job or be rich, there is NO WAY that one can have a full time job in this program. Secondly, there is an heir of perfect elitist snobbery there too. I'd love to name names, but I have a bit of class, unlike they do. They tote themselves as free speech radio, but they ARE NOT! They are quite the opposite. It's really sad. I can go on for pages and pages on how they, the First Voice mentors have alot on their plate, and I respect them for giving their time and energy. However, they are EXTREMELY hard to work for. This isn't just a bi*ch fest....This is the truth. If someone is looking to join First Voice, take heed and ask other people before you get into something you can't get out of. read more

Sundays have went to the monkeys. Their evening shows used to be great but now it's a bunch of jibber jabber. Otm is the worst show ever! Then their crappy rnb show is pure a@$. Just a couple of DJ's flirting with each other. I have donated thousands in the past but kpfa will not get a nickle from me from now on. read more

I should give 5 stars because they are keeping a "people's" station afloat in a corporate media world. I should give them 2 stars because of all the strident whining. But I give 4 stars because there are some super wonderful shows!! Jennifer Stone (stone's throw) - the most eccentric and elegant and badass woman around, and she's olde! Living Room - the host is so cool - I wish she was my aunt. she gets great guests and has interesting twists and a great radio voice and demeanor. The Morning Show - find out what's the haps in a non-canned way (no whining, just weeding through ideas about pressing issues), fun and inquisitive Against the Grain - intellectual discussion about everything under the sun, historical and contemporary. compelling! critical thinking! Africa Today - great host and great subjects! thank you for talking about things that get ignored. in the news africa is treated like one big problem-child with no contrast, plot, individuality. This show is essential to fill in the gaps in daily news (with historical significance). Hard Knock Radio - great hip hop interviews with all the underground greats and many above/middle-grounders as well. and up and comingers and analysis on issues in rap culture. La Onda Bajita - so coool! you will feel cool listening to this show. you will become cool. Funk Show - forget what it's called, but kicks bootylishious butt Salsa Show - also amaaazing!! read more

Truth radio, offering views and perspectives from the diverse community of the SF Bay Area and beyond. Science, Native News, News from youth, Latinx radio, health science, astrology, finance, news from Africa; local and international news, Amy Goodman and Juan Gonzalez, and so, many, many more bright and wonderful voices/dis/leaders/activists. And the music, and the music, and the music. Story telling and so, so much more!! Thank you KPFA work not just working all of us up but for the work you do internally to support progressive change while maintaining great seasoned radio as well! read more

I am a KPFA fan and regular listener and member..... It has got some really great programing, like "democracy now", "KPFA evening news", "hard knock" and "Joe Frank". I love that they give away tickets all the time and are listener sponsored, ie. no commercials. Most of the shows are pretty great. A few are a little out there, and you know you are living in the bay area when listener call in about the FBI following them when they feed feral cats. Well I guess there are crazy people everywhere. A few of the shows are too over the top even for me... but in general you can turn it on and listen to something interesting or some good tunes. And for those who say that KPFA is too liberal, or not balanced enough... I say, Considering most other media sources (FOX, ABC, NBC and in my opinion NPR) are unbalanced and overly conservative it is nice that KPFA can help balance the scales a little bit. Everything has a slant, KPFA just doesn't try to hide it. Don't like what you hear - fine, don't listen, thats cool. Upset there isn't enough balance- not thinking too hard huh?, the world is unbalanced.... read more

I've listened to the station half my life. It is a truly wonderful gift for alternative news and music. My favorite talk shows are the Block Radio Report with the Minister of Information & his womxn co-host, Hard Knock Radio with Davey D, Against the Grain with C.S. Soong, Rock en Rebellion, and History of Funk. The only show I have issue with is America's Back 40 with Mary Tilson b/c of Ms. Tilson's seemingly classist commentary, which is sad b/c the music she plays is pretty good; however the roots of old-timey, bluegrass, americana and country music that are played on her show rests within the working-class and Ms. Tilson lacks in sensitivity to this class. I know kpfa isn't perfect, as most stations aren't. When you understand the scale by which it's operating abilities run-with a few hundred people coordinating to create it's elaborate and tailored programming within a dire budget, the better you are in putting it's pros and cons into perspective. read more

Been a member since the 80's - Have had my issues with some of the things going on, but its OURS. Check it out for yourself and decide. Each programmer has lots of free rein, so you get failures as well as successful shows. I loved the old days with Shoutin Out with Mama OShea, Bill Mandell, the cool paper you used to get in the mail, All the News That's Fit to Spit every Sunday morning... Great music programming in the evenings.. read more

Thank you Ray for pig in the pen. we listen all the time on our way up to Mendocino county and are sad when it fades somewhere in Sonoma we also listen here in Berkeley and when on the road. the greatest Bluegrass shows, especially the live musicians such as today, a rainy Jan 6., 2019 Perfect for a cozy stay at home day Thank you KPFA! Also appreciate GD nights on Weds pm's, and hard knocks. Education is key. read more

I had the great honor of playing my Cajon/Congas/Hand Percussion with some very talented local great artist tonight April 4th 2011 live at KPFA Radio 94.1 FM. Live interview starts at 01:11:50 to 01:21:17 and the live performance starts at 01:24:03 to 01:55:55 Thanks to everyone there, Greg Bridges & the very talented crew, I am very grateful indeed, I hope you all enjoy cause we sure did. Peace. http://www.kpfa.org/archive/id/68759 read more

The best radio station I've ever heard. A huge variety of political shows with unique topics and meaningful subjects.

They are very accommodating to the needs of their community and are doing a massive public service by offering tremendous variety and quality broadcasting while operating on a tight, listener supported budget, in an era of bland mega corporate sponsorship. My hat is off to you all, keep up the amazing work!! read more

If you want to stay informed AND inspired ~ this is the station. I have been listening for decades now and I am deeply grateful for the excellent content. The archives are a resource beyond explanation. Wish there were more than 5 stars. read more

Best music! Best news, that's not filtered! Great local music exposure. I listen throughout the day; on my way to work, on my way home. And after work get-togethers. read more

Don't contribute. They outsource they're pledge hotline. The people that answer don't even know the most basic things about Kpfa let alone what premium your talking about. I made a sustaining contribution three months ago and still haven't received my premium. Calling in to complain you get some gruff voice in voicemail asking you to leave your name and number and they'll call you back in three days. Yuck!!! As long as they get their money. read more

I only listen on Sunday between 1 and 4 for the great bluegrass music. Very one-sided politics so I only listen to the music that I can't find elsewhere. The problem is I subscribed in May 2009 and was to receive a two-CD music set and it has not arrived. No response from 3 voice mails or 3 emails regarding the cds. Finally got someone today to pick up the phone and was told they were on back order. (Never asked me which cd I was waiting for.) Said someone would call me back. I mentioned that I would never subscribe again. I read more

I only listen occasionally on Sundays for the bluegrass show. Ain't nothing better than cooking up a family meal with that high lonesome sound in the background. I like the interviews they do sometimes with the artists, and appreciate that they will, from time to time, trot out actual vintage vinyl for us to hear. read more

Listen up! Carolyn Casey's amazing show on KPFA, Visionary Activist, merits the 5 star rating. In addition, shows such as The Herbal Highway and Democracy NOW, make this AM station a regular on my radio dial (OK, I stream it on my MAC but you get the idea). Absolutely smart, left-minded, and entertaining. read more

KPFA Make us Berkeley people unique!!!

I gotta shout out to my new friends at KPFA who were instrumental in vidoetaping the interviews for the Eastside Stories Project at Woodland School this morning.Very professional without being snooty or arrogant. Thanks Miki, Karl, Gloria and the Moderator ( sorry cant remember her name)Of course KPFA has been the community advocate for years now.. keep it up ! alrighty then...holla read more

i listen to democracy now all the time, plus the other news program when i can. they cover news the mainstream media won't cover. the jazz programs are cool too when i can find them. read more

The only free and independent media in the United States, other than pirate radio and KALW (sometimes). Their archives of past programs alone is an invaluable resource and public service. "Guns and Butter," "Africa Today," "Bay Native Circle," "La Raza Chronicles," "Against the Grain," "Your Own Health And Fitness," "Voices of the Middle East," "Africa Today," "Apex Express," Kris Welch, "Terra Verde," "Full Circle," "CounterSpin," "Pushing Limits," "Education Today," "Exploration," "Free Speech Radio News," "Flashpoints," "Evening News," "Morning Show," "Behind the News," "Sunday Morning Show," and "Democracy Now" will give you all the reality you can handle. When you want to decompress, "Music Of The World," "Ritmo de las Americas," and "Hard Knock Radio" will keep you in touch with the Modern World. There are more music shows of all varities into the wee hours of the night and morning. That's right, I said "wee"...... read more

KPFA is a national and local treasure. The programming is deep and wide. I do have a problem with local news not having enough attention, but understand that the station's listeners are state and nationwide. read more

Yikes. I just listened to a Counter Spin interview of Mathew Alexander, author of Kill or Capture, about harsh interrogations. While I know that Counter Spin is trying to make the argument against harsh interrogations, Mr. Alexander is hardly an expert. As someone who has had considerable experience with this field I can say that Mr. Alexanders knowledge base can best be described as low level. He probably worked at the company or battalion level for a combat arms unit and therefor never really was exposed to high value detainees or true enhanced interrogation practices. Obviously there is no cookie cutter mold for how interrogations should be run, but making generalized remarks just exemplifies ignorance. I bring this up because this reflects the quality of reporting KPFA has to offer; shows that are preset in their political messages and won't risk a healthy debate. Even if it means bringing false experts onto the show in order to substantiate their message. I also find it interesting that I had posted a message on here a month ago and it has been removed. I guess its important to have a high rating on here. read more

My only media sources are all public broadcasting stations in San Francisco: KQED,KALW,KPOO,KJAZ,KDFC and KPFA. What's up with KQED FM? I can't shake the feeling that their broadcasting has been compromised. Not surprising considering their list of donors. Do your employees-volunteers-comentators listen to these other stations? As we start to notice the unreliability of mainstream news sources, It is important that these stations communicate with each other to insure the authenticity and reliability of their sources. read more

You have to respect this place. if you know enough to go here, you know that they accept no corporate sponsorship and therefore have no one to answer to. An important ingredient of great news reporting is no-one selling you anything. I appreciate the depth and breadth of topics covered here. i never much enjoyed radio before being introduced to this station by a coworker. KPFA spoiled me- i haven't listened to cooperate radio for about ten years, and it is nice to have been liberated from this crap. i never understood why people thought it was important to listen to news- to me it was reciting little of global and national horrors with the bulk of reporting being local horrors (horrific crimes, petty crimes, disasters). i also noted lack of context in national news. So KPFA does the opposite- the shows take one or two topics and go in-depth, often with guests with the appropriate credentials or expertise. the hosts of course are brilliant- they pick great subjects and great guests, and know how to keep program moving and on topic. They also try to invite speakers representing spectrums of viewpoints, or opposing viewpoints, but these people don't often accept invitation to defend/support their stance. When they do accept, they are treated well by hosts- there is none of that bullying, talking over, or rudeness that I have seen and heard on other stations: the staff is very respectful of both guests and listeners calling in to program. I am in a rut- i have not listened to all offerings. i do enjoy several programs regularly, flashpoints, hard knock radio, against the grain, uprising, richard wolff, even some of the weekend music shows, living room, mitch jeserich, democracy now, ralph nader. i particularly love the sunday show and upfront. The station also hosts many great lectures in various east bay locations. Finally the listeners who contribute to discussions typically are very bright and add a lot to content. The bad part is that i seriously doubt that staff is paid nearly the value of their scholarship and commitment. Just finished listening to Kris Welch reading Rebecca Solnit's easy re habits of cynical people- yet another sample of informative and inspirational programming. read more