WNYC/New York Brings 'Soundcheck' Back to Radio

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, June 25, 2026 | 3:46pm CT

Soundcheck

WNYC/New York is bringing "Soundcheck" back to the airwaves with a new weekly radio program hosted by longtime music journalist John Schaefer. The hour-long show premieres Saturday, June 27 at 8pm ET. The new broadcast edition will feature highlights from the acclaimed "Soundcheck" podcast, showcasing exclusive live performances and artist interviews while spotlighting new music releases and upcoming tours.

Hosted by Schaefer, who also fronts WNYC's "New Sounds," the program explores artists' creative processes through in-depth conversations and intimate in-studio performances. The show spans a wide range of musical genres and styles from around the world, reflecting Schaefer's long-standing commitment to introducing audiences to diverse music and emerging talent.

"Whether it's a solo acoustic set by alt-country pioneer Rodney Crowell or horn-heavy dance music from Cuba's Orquesta Akokan, 'Soundcheck' is not just about live music," Schaefer said. "It's about pulling aside the curtain to get a peek at the creative process." He added that the program focuses as much on the artists' stories as it does on their performances.

"Soundcheck" will air Saturdays at 8pm on WNYC and stream at WNYC.org. Episodes will also be released as podcasts following each broadcast through the existing "Soundcheck" podcast feed.