Across the country, and right here in Central Texas, public radio stations are turning up the volume to celebrate Public Radio Music Day, a nationwide tribute to the power of music and its role in bringing communities together.

Observed annually, Public Radio Music Day honors the unique contributions of local stations like KNCT FM 91.3, where music isn’t just background noise, it’s a bridge between generations, cultures, and stories. Whether it’s the soulful strains of jazz, the twang of Texas country, or the timeless harmonies of classical and choral works, public radio curates a soundscape that reflects the heart of its listeners.

This year’s celebration carries special meaning. Despite financial challenges and shifting media landscapes, stations continue to serve as cultural lifelines, offering free access to music, artist interviews, and local performances that might otherwise go unheard. Thanks to recent licensing agreements secured by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, stations can continue broadcasting music from major performing rights organizations through 2027, ensuring uninterrupted access to the songs that shape our lives.

Music is one of the most powerful tools we have to connect people, It’s not just about entertainment. It’s about identity, memory, and shared experience.

Public Radio Music Day is also a reminder of the importance of listener support. Unlike commercial stations, public radio relies on community contributions to keep the music playing. Every donation, every shared story, and every tuned-in moment helps sustain a legacy of sound that’s as diverse as the audience it serves.

So whether you’re driving through the Hill Country, working in the garden, or winding down after a long day, take a moment to celebrate the music that moves you, and the public radio stations that make it possible.