KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — A billion dollars of cuts to public broadcasting funding have impacted local radio stations in East Tennessee, including a popular Appalachian-music radio station, WDVX.
WDVX has been on the airwaves for 28 years, showcasing local musicians from southern Appalachia and highlighting different arts events across East Tennessee. Its general manager, Tony Lawson, said their mission is unique- no news, just music.
Federal cuts meant $100,000 in Corporation for Public Broadcasting funds disappeared, around 15% to 20% of its funding, Lawson said. Funds were put towards programs such as the ‘Blue Plate Special’, where live music is broadcast from downtown Knoxville six days a week at noon…