Chief Tunji Awodi, a Seattle-based Ethnomusicologist, is passionate about using indigenous African culture to empower and heal communities. As the Executive Director of The Hawk Foundation, he provides multicultural education and drum facilitation throughout the Pacific Northwest. Chief Awodi's expertise in Bata dance and drum traditions, combined with his dedication to cultural preservation, makes him a powerful advocate for the transformative power of music and heritage.

Bishop Gwendolyn Phillips Coates is a dynamic force in ministry, entrepreneurship, and the arts. As the Senior Pastor of God Answers Prayer Ministries of Los Angeles and a high-ranking official within the Greater Church of Deliverance, Inc., she provides spiritual guidance and leadership to a wide-reaching congregation. Her influence extends beyond the pulpit, as she is a sought-after consultant, instructor, and author.

The elusive “Seattle Sound” is not merely a singular genre or style; rather, it's a complex amalgamation of diverse musical influences and histories layered over more than a century. This sonic tapestry has been woven by the hands and voices of countless musicians, each contributing their own unique story and perspective to the city's musical narrative.

The talented Shaina Shepherd is a revered Seattle musical phenom with a voice full of soul, passion, and imagination. Shepherd once again joined us on the Morning Update Show to update Trae Holiday on what’s been up since her last appearance in December 2021. Shepherd also took some time today to share some introspections and observations and learnings from the past few months and how that is impacting her music today. Shepherd is currently in town as she was taken by KEXP to curate a show this weekend at Tractor Tavern in which she will be performing with several other industry heavyweights including Vitamin D. The show is part of KEXP’s 50th Anniversary celebrations.