Roots & Rhythms started out in 1997 as a roots music programĀ (older blues, country, r&b and rock(abilly), with some contemporary jazz and world music thrown in as well. Most programs were devoted to a specific artist, label, city or genre. Since then, the core concept has remained the same, but has been broadened to include some pop and more mix-type programs blending eclectic choices across genre and time periods. Throughout, the emphasis has been on music that swings, jumps, or rocks.