CJRU’s B-Siide radio show scored two firsts last week—the release of its inaugural mixtape and an in-person listening party at Laylow Brewery.
B-Siide Mixtape Vol. 1 has been in the making since September 2021 and was inspired by a passion for independent urban music shared by B-Siide hosts Mike Kivell and Charlie Harrison. The goal of both the show and podcast is to introduce talented up-and-coming artists to new audiences.
“It’s been a dream come true to work with artists we genuinely appreciate, and it’s definitely inspired us to do more,” said Kivell, who launched B-Siide in 2019.
B-Siide Mixtape Vol. 1 is now available on streaming platforms, with vinyl copies on the way. The five-track mixtape features an array of local and international hip-hop and R&B musicians: Boy Nash, Cleva Thoughts, Sareem Poems, Vonne Wayne, Rel McCoy, Die-Rek, Broadway Benson, NRMN and Amanda Mae.
Local artists Amanda Mae and NRMN performed their mixtape tracks “Will It Change” and “Time,” respectively, to an intimate gathering of fans, fellow artists and supporters.
“We couldn’t be happier with how everything turned out,” said Harrison. “We’ve been so focused on this project for the last while. We’re excited to get back into interviewing artists, meeting new people and then connecting for our next podcast.”
The duo see B-Siide Mixtape Vol. 1 as the first in a series of annual mixtapes and related live events. Stay tuned to B-Siide Radio, Mondays and Fridays at 9PM to 11PM EST on CJRU 1280AM.
Photography by Andy Lee.
