Music
Explore Baltimore: 5 Music Legends
Friday, March 7th, 2025 by Liz Kosik
1. 1915: Billie Holiday – One of the most influential jazz singers of all time, Billie Holiday’s raw, emotional voice made songs like “Strange Fruit” and “God Bless the Child” unforgettable. Born in Philly but raised in Baltimore, she got her start singing in local clubs before making history.
2. 1938: Philip Glass – A pioneer of minimalist music, Philip Glass changed the classical world with his hypnotic compositions. Whether it’s operas, film scores, or symphonies, his work has influenced generations of musicians across genres.
3. 1940: Cab Calloway – Known for his high-energy performances and smooth scat singing, Cab Calloway was a major figure in swing and big band jazz. “Minnie the Moocher” became a massive hit, and his theatrical style left a lasting mark on jazz and pop culture.
4. 1968: David Byrne – Best known as the frontman of Talking Heads, Byrne’s mix of new wave, punk, and art rock made him one of the most unique artists of his time. His work goes beyond music, diving into film, theater, and even urban design.
5. 1977: Tupac Shakur – Before becoming one of hip-hop’s most legendary figures, Tupac spent part of his youth in Baltimore, where he studied theater and poetry. His time here shaped his artistry, setting the stage for his revolutionary impact on rap and culture.
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AOTW: Annie DiRusso – Super Pedestrian
Thursday, March 6th, 2025 by Liz Kosik
by Elizabeth Kosik ’25
Album of The Week: Annie DiRusso – Super Pedestrian
Released: March 7, 2025
Rate: 8/10
RIYL: Indigo De Souza, Soccer Mommy, Bully
Annie DiRusso is an indie-rock artist from NYC, now based in Nashville, who blends garage rock energy with pop-driven melodies. Her music pulls from both cities, creating a style that feels both raw and catchy. She’s built a dedicated fanbase through her singles and debut EP, “Don’t Swerve,” leading up to her first full-length album.
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Staff Picks: Liz’s Top 5
Wednesday, March 5th, 2025 by Liz Kosik
Hi, everyone! PR Director Liz here! The WLOY crew hopes our Loyola community is getting some well-deserved rest this spring break. Here are my current top five songs I’ve been listening to this week!
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SOTW: “Grand Mal” – Ezra Furman
Tuesday, March 4th, 2025 by Liz Kosik
by Elizabeth Kosik ’25
Song of The Week: “Grand Mal” – Ezra Furman
Released: February 13, 2025
Rate: 8/10
RIYL: Perfume Genius, Art d’Ecco, Laura Jane Grace
Ezra Furman is an artist who refuses to be boxed in, bringing creativity and emotion to her sound. Her music blends punk energy with deeply personal storytelling, making her one of the most unique voices in the music scene. Over the years, she’s explored everything from upbeat, genre-mixing anthems on Perpetual Motion People to the cinematic world of Transangelic Exodus. (more…)
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On This Day: March 3
Monday, March 3rd, 2025 by Liz Kosik
1. 1931: “The Star-Spangled Banner” was officially designated as the U.S. national anthem.
2. 1972: Elton John released “Rocket Man.”
3. 1981: U2 began their first major U.S. tour.
4. 1984: Michael Jackson‘s Thriller became the first album with seven Billboard Top Ten hits.
5. 1986: Metallica released Master of Puppets.
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AOTW: Sam Fender – People Watching
Thursday, February 27th, 2025 by Liz Kosik
by Fiona Galang ’27
Album of The Week: Sam Fender – People Watching
Released: February 21, 2025
Rate: 7/10
RIYL: Bruce Springsteen, The War on Drugs, Arctic Monkeys
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SOTW: “Lying in the Sun” – Kook Joey
Tuesday, February 25th, 2025 by Liz Kosik
by Elizabeth Kosik ’25
Song of The Week: “Lying in the Sun” – Kook Joey
Released: January 22, 2025
Rate: 9/10
RIYL: Maggie Rogers, Renforshort, Beabadoobee
Kook Joey’s debut EP, Losing Limits, introduces her folk-inspired sound with a nostalgic 60s influence. Collaborating with Luke Carruana and Chris Smithson of Caravana Sun, as well as producer Tobias Priddle, she crafted a collection of songs that reflect her musical journey. The EP blends deep folk elements with warm, sunlit tones, creating a heartfelt and immersive listening experience.
One of the standout tracks, “Lying in the Sun”, captures the easygoing, reflective nature of Kook Joey’s style. Recorded in Sydney with Carruana and Smithson, the song embraces a laid-back energy, shaped by their outdoor writing sessions. Mixed by Priddle, it highlights her ability to blend organic instrumentation with soothing melodies, making it a defining piece of Losing Limits.
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Upcoming: Gong Karaoke
Monday, February 24th, 2025 by Liz Kosik
Join WLOY for Karaoke for a Cause: Gong Karaoke on Friday, March 14, from 6-8 PM in Starbucks! Never heard of Gong Karaoke? No worries—WLOY has you covered. For just $1, you can request a song to sing, but beware! Spectators can pay $2 to hit the gong and send you offstage. Want to stay up there? It’ll cost $5 to keep singing, but if someone really wants you gone, they can pay $10 in sudden death to kick you off for good!
All proceeds benefit Loyola’s Relay for Life, supporting the American Cancer Society in its mission to celebrate survivorship and fund critical research and programs. Ready for some friendly competition for a great cause? Join WLOY on March 14 for a night of music, fun, and giving back!
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On This Day: February 24
Monday, February 24th, 2025 by Liz Kosik
1. 1968: Fleetwood Mac released their self-titled debut album, showcasing their original blues-rock style.
2. 1969: The Jimi Hendrix Experience performed their final UK concert at London’s Royal Albert Hall.
3. 1976: The Eagles’ “Their Greatest Hits (1971–1975)” became the first album certified Platinum by the RIAA, marking a significant milestone in music sales.
1993: Eric Clapton won six awards at the 35th Annual Grammy Awards, including Record and Song of the Year for “Tears in Heaven.”
1999: Lauryn Hill made history at the Grammy Awards by becoming the first female artist to win five awards in one night
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Explore Baltimore: Free Concert Venues
Friday, February 21st, 2025 by Liz Kosik
1. Peabody Institute Concert: part of Johns Hopkins University, the Peabody Institute offers a range of free recitals and concerts showcasing the talents of its students and faculty. Events are held at various venues within the institute, providing classical music enthusiasts with regular opportunities to experience high-quality performances.
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