Smooth Jazz Top 20 Marks 1,000th Episode

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, September 3, 2026 | 2:24pm CT

Smooth Jazz Top 20

The "Smooth Jazz Top 20 Countdown with Allen Kepler" will celebrate its 1,000th episode over Labor Day weekend, marking a milestone for the nationally syndicated Smooth Jazz Network program.

Launched in 2007, the weekly countdown is based on airplay from Mediabase-reporting radio stations, streaming channels and the Smooth Jazz Network. The show currently airs on more than 40 radio stations and streams.

"Smooth Jazz is more vibrant than ever," said Kepler. "The 1,000th episode is a testament to the artists, programmers, and listeners who keep this music thriving."

Kepler said the network was retooled in 2012 around what it calls a "Top 100" format, which is distributed through Live365, iHeart, radio affiliates, independent streaming channels and the Smooth Jazz Network app.

Kepler created the Smooth Jazz Network 35 years ago and was part of the team that coined the "smooth jazz" genre name in 1989. Over the years, he has worked with more than 100 Smooth Jazz-branded radio stations and streaming channels.

The countdown's annual cycle concludes with the year-end edition of Kepler's "BEATS" magazine, featuring a year-end chart, artist interviews and awards for Best Artist, Breakout Artist and Local Radio Station of the Year. The 2026 issue will be the magazine's seventh annual edition.

The Smooth Jazz Network also syndicates "Smooth Jazz Weekend" and "Smooth Jazz Classics." All three programs are offered to radio stations and streams on a barter basis at no cost.

Kepler has also expanded the Smooth Jazz brand beyond broadcasting. Earlier this year, he introduced Smooth Jazz Wines, with varieties named for classic smooth jazz songs including "Rise," "Maputo" and "Breezin'." A Smooth Jazz Wines pairing cookbook is scheduled for publication later this month.

Kepler also co-wrote "Keep It Smooth" with Grammy-winning producer and songwriter Michael Mani. The debut single from Colombian singer Lali P features jazz saxophonist Najee and is scheduled to begin seeking radio playlist adds Sept. 14.

"We really helped to create something truly special so many years ago," Kepler said, "and it is wonderful to see the music and artists thriving today."