Country Radio in L.A.

Judith Michaelson’s reference to local pop station KZLA-FM (93.9) as the only “country” outlet in the Los Angeles-Orange County area is misleading (“Radio: On a New Wavelength?,” Dec. 17).

Arbitron ratings aside, this particular radio station is not playing country music nor is it geared toward country music audiences. It plays the “stuff” or “fluff” that is in reality soft-rock or pop-schlock, all manufactured by that factory town down South.

There was a time when radio was a healthy medium that allowed for a broader range of musical styles. It served to educate as well as entertain. Certainly in terms of contemporary C&W; and many other forms of American roots music, radio is a monster that is killing creativity, individuality and a myriad of promising careers. As for country radio in L.A., there is none.

JANA PENDRAGON

Long Beach