Blues and soul music comes in many varieties and WRTC offerings run the gamut. Knowledgeable hosts deliver the goods, providing listeners with a vast array of styles — from the traditional go-to favorites to more unheralded talent. These inimitable programs will astonish even the most seasoned fan and provide the vital insight to those who may not be as in the know.

Craig Black

WEDNESDAY
Noon-3 p.m.
WORLD O’ FUNK
Hosts: Craig Black & Willie Q
Funk music at its best from the usual suspects: James Brown, Sly &The Family Stone, Parliament-Funkadelic, Bootsy Collins, Cameo, The Ohio Players, Graham Central Station, O.G. Funk, Average White Band, Mandrill and more. The bottom line: If you’ve got funk, you’ve got style!

THURSDAY
3-4:30 p.m.
P.M. JAZZ
Host: Dr. Love
The foundation may be smooth jazz and traditional R&B, but the good doctor often turns up the heat with old-fashioned soul and funk. Whatever ails you, the doctor has the cure.

Chris Cowles

SATURDAY
3:30-5:30 p.m.
GREASY TRACKS
Host: Chris Cowles
The longest-running program of its kind in Connecticut. An in-depth mix of below-the-radar artists as well as soul, blues and funk legends. The format is heavily influenced by the gritty Stax Records and southern soul styles, but often goes into late-1960s/early-70s Brit blues and extended acid jazz and fusion instrumentals. Since 2010, there’s an annual six-hour Stax feature with guests who who made Memphis the focal point of American soul music.
Contact: GreasyTracks@aol.com