The Current Names Diane Miller as New Local Show Host

Aug 18, 2021

ST. PAUL, Minn., Aug. 18, 2021 – The Current today announces the hire of local musician and journalist Diane Miller as host and producer of The Local Show. As the new voice of the show, Miller will offer The Current’s listeners a regular lineup of the best in Minnesota’s vibrant local music scene.

Airing Sundays at 6-8 p.m. on The Current’s radio broadcasts across Minnesota and online, The Local Show is a weekly listening must for music fans looking for the latest from up-and-coming artists across the state.

"The Current has always been an organization I've looked up to as a musician and music fan,” said Miller. “It will be a great honor and privilege to serve as a radio host and producer representing Minnesota’s esteemed music scene. I couldn't be more thrilled to take on this role."

Growing up in Fargo, ND, Miller found an interest in local hardcore punk shows at a young age and has been a fan and supporter of local music since. That interest turned into blogging, documenting her favorite songs of various genres and time periods and covering her concert-going experiences at venues like First Avenue. Miller graduated with a degree in music from Minnesota State University Moorhead, and from there, continued to pursue her passions for both music and journalism.

Miller is a co-founder of the hip-hop band D Mills & The Thrills, and her music career includes a number of other projects, including original folk bands, hip-hop tributes and experimental improvisational ensembles. Outside of performing, Miller served as editor-in-chief of Fargo’s alt weekly High Plains Reader, and she became lead talent buyer for The Aquarium, an indie music venue in Fargo, in 2016. Miller relocated to the Twin Cities in 2018, where she continued to perform and served as the talent booker for the Minneapolis venue Icehouse.

She was awarded the McKnight Fellowship for Musicians, administered by MacPhail Center for Music, in 2020, and she was appointed a board member of the Minnesota Music Coalition in 2021.

“A strong connection to the Minnesota music scene and ear for the best new local sound is a must for The Local Show,” said David Safar, Managing Director of The Current. “Diane isn’t just aware of what’s happening in local music – she’s also part of it – and we can’t wait to see how she takes her experience and makes the show her own.”

Miller follows in the hosting footsteps of Andrea Swensson, who led The Local Show for five years. Miller’s first day at the station will be Monday, Aug. 23, and she’ll be starting behind the mic in late September. The Current’s Sean McPherson will continue to serve as interim host.

“Diane has a great respect for our local music community and a deep knowledge for music across genres,” said Kelsey Brannan, The Current’s Assistant Program Director. “She’ll make a great addition to the talented hosting team at The Current, and we’re eager for listeners to get to know her more as she gets behind the mic.”

The Local Show is supported in part by the Minnesota Legacy Amendment’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. Listeners can follow updates from The Local Show on Twitter and Facebook, as well as at thecurrent.org.

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About The Current
The Current is an all-music, noncommercial, member-supported station from Minnesota Public Radio®. Since it began broadcasting in 2005, the award-winning station has grown into a far-reaching community, boasting members and online listeners from around the world. From local to legendary, indie to influential, The Current plays the best new music next to the artists you already love. Part of The Current’s mission is to champion emerging artists, support civic and cultural organizations, and give a platform to important voices that shape our community and make the Twin Cities a great place to live. Learn more and listen at thecurrent.org.