Voice of America Washington, DC 20547 Tel: (202) 619-2538 Fax: (202) 619-1241 E-mail: pubaff@ibb.gov

VOA Launches New Music Service For Local Affiliates

Washington, D.C., April 29, 1999 -- The Voice of America has launched a new music service, "VOA Music Mix." The 24-hour, English-language service is available via satellite to VOA's more than 1,000 affiliated stations around the world.

"'VOA Music Mix' includes not only music but also artist information, and music news," said John Stevenson, Director of VOA's Special English and Music Division. "Our experienced staff will produce programs that have a natural, conversational, and friendly sound." During some program hours, hosts will take listener calls, celebrate special occasions, or serve as bridges between VOA and individual affiliates stations and networks.

The service tells America's story through music--by featuring a wide variety of formats including pop, urban, country, rock, classical, dance, and others. Each hour opens with an English-language newscast from the VOA newsroom.

Weekend programming will include syndicated material, such as countdown programs from a variety of formats as well as oldies, acoustic music, modern rock, and country showcases. A new Jazz program will be added to the Saturday and Sunday line up.

"VOA Music Mix" is available to local radio stations worldwide (a current affiliate or a potential future affiliate) that would like to include this new and unique program in their broadcast schedule.

The Voice of America broadcasts U.S., world, and region news to an estimated weekly audience of 83 million listeners. More than 1,000 local radio stations around the world broadcast VOA-produced programming.

Contact: Brian Armstead
Phone: (202) 619-2834
E-mail: pubaff@voa.gov