Listener-supported Folk Alley launched in September 2003, streaming a unique and consistently eclectic mix of traditional folk, roots, Americana, contemporary singer-songwriters, indie folk, Celtic, bluegrass, and global sounds.
The groundbreaking service was born at NPR-affiliate station WKSU in Kent, Ohio, where Executive Director and General Manager Al Bartholet championed an ambitious idea: use the emerging power of the internet to bring folk music to a worldwide audience. With veteran host Jim Blum, IT leader Chuck Poulton, and a dedicated team, Folk Alley set out to become the premier online destination for folk music discovery.
The response was immediate. In its first year, Folk Alley drew more than 23,000 registered listeners, with audiences tuning in from across the U.S. and around the globe—from the UK to Australia to Brazil. For many, it was the first time they could reliably hear the music they loved in one place.
In spring 2005, that early momentum led to a pivotal moment: the hiring of two full-time staff members. Linda Fahey brought her experience from A Prairie Home Companion and Red House Records, and stepped in to manage Folk Alley. She would go on to shape its voice, growth, and mission for the next 21 years. Alongside her, Chris Boros joined the production and operations team, and new hosts including Elena See, Barb Heller, and Jeff St. Clair expanded the sound of the stream.
In the years following, Folk Alley blossomed. The website grew into a rich hub for discovery—featuring blogs, album reviews, news, live concert recordings, exclusive in-studio Sessions, and the Open Mic platform for emerging artists. In 2007, Folk Alley introduced its innovative member-supported, fund drive free stream, giving donors an exclusive and uninterrupted experience.
That same year, Folk Alley became a founding partner of NPR Music, contributing content and collaborating on live broadcasts from major events like the Newport Folk Festival and the Americana Music Honors & Awards.
In 2019, Folk Alley entered a new chapter when it became part of the FreshGrass Foundation—a forward-thinking nonprofit dedicated to supporting innovative grassroots music. Through that transition, Linda Fahey’s steady leadership helped ensure continuity and continued growth, reinforcing Folk Alley’s long-standing commitment to artists and listeners.
After more than two decades with the organization, Linda Fahey retired in 2026, leaving a lasting imprint on Folk Alley’s evolution and the community it serves.
Today, Folk Alley continues to thrive as a leader in folk, roots, and Americana music. With its 24/7 hosted stream, specialty channels, vibrant website and mobile app, and nationally syndicated weekly radio show, it remains a vital space for discovery—connecting people to the music, and to each other, every day.
