Jazz88 | KBEM

LISTENER DRIVEN, KBEM-JAZZ88

Owned and operated by Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS), KBEM-FM turned 50 in the fall of 2020 after hitting the airwaves in October of 1970. Recognized as the Twin Cities’ leading non-commercial radio voice for jazz, roots music, and education, KBEM is one of the most listened-to jazz stations in the United States! It is also the exclusive home of MnDOT’s First Alert Traffic reports. 

For more than five decades, Jazz88 has served both students and the community. Through its hands-on broadcasting program, MPS students learn every aspect of radio and media production - and their voices can be heard on-air during Jazz with Class on 88.5FM and jazz88.fm. (Fun fact: the “B-E-M” in KBEM stands for Board of Education Minneapolis.)

Today, Jazz88 faces a serious challenge.

The loss of federal funding and support from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting has created a 10% budget gap – $120,000 every year - threatening the music, education, and community service that define us.

Your donation today is vital to sustain Jazz88’s legacy and ensure this station continues to serve students and our community.

Please visit jazz88.fm to learn how you can help keep this unique community treasure thriving for years to come.