When I heard a live K-Swift set for the first time at age 13, I knew there was no one else on the radio like her. Her mixes, on-air commentary and obvious love for music inspired me and my interest in music and radio. Of course, I had no idea what Baltimore Club music was then - I just knew that whatever she dropped was infectious.
I was certainly not alone in my love for K-Swift's radio show. An avid listener throughout high school and into college, I got a show at my school's radio station and, following her example, got into live DJing. Each time I drop a Baltimore Club track, I think of her and remember which of her many mix tapes put me on to the song.
For people who know the local club scene or pay attention to contemporary music, it is hard to live in Baltimore and not be familiar with the moniker "K-Swift." A self-made woman, Khia Edgerton, at 18, was offered a coveted Radio One Baltimore internship with 92Q Jams (WERQ-FM). In the same year, Ms. Edgerton - from then on known as DJ K-Swift - began producing shows such as the Mark Young Show and Neke @ Night for the station.
From these beginnings, K-Swift would go on to be one of the most influential DJs of her time, earning the adoration of her fans in clubs and on the air. She quickly gained the respect of DJs in Baltimore and became a role model for female DJs everywhere.
K-Swift, who died Monday in an accident at her home, was on top and about to get even bigger when she was taken so quickly and shockingly from the music, the fans, the community she loved.
The accolades are many: "Club Queen" of Baltimore, host of the No. 1-ranked radio show on 92Q, first and only female mix show coordinator in radio history, prolific DJ and producer with more than a dozen mixes put out by Baltimore label Unruly Records. But, looking past all that, her personality is undoubtedly what will be most remembered by fans.
Dynamic and jovial on the air, K-Swift showcased her talent during her 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. radio spot, Off the Hook Radio, with co-host Squirrel Wyde. Her live mixes always opened with an enthusiastic introduction that would make any listener excited about what she had in store. In venues ranging from the massive Paradox to the cramped Talking Head, she would glow with appreciation, love and an unmatched passion for her crowd and music when she spun.
