On Wednesdays I often find myself tuned into the radio show “Positive Vibrations” with DJ Sister Rue. Sister Rue’s vibrations emanate from the University of California Irvine campus station’s frequency, KUCI 88.9 FM, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. PST. Positive vibrations are exactly what the music Sister Rue plays is made of, as the reggae “riddims” bust through my speakers, spill into my ears, and infiltrate my soul.

In the past, I had caught some of the show’s jams when using the RadioFlag app. This time however was different, as I was able to enjoy the entire show. Sister Rue’s radio show reminds me just how much I enjoy reggae music. Reggae always relaxes me, and seems to encompass that “no worries” feel, so the name “Positive Vibrations” fits the show like a glove. Sister Rue plays a vast variety of reggae and dub music, and is the perfect place to turn if you’re looking to discover unearthed reggae relics. The show I tuned in to revolved around an 80’s theme. It started off with the old-school classic “Pass the Dutchie”, and evolved into a musical expedition with each passing track.

Sister Rue seems to have a laid-back and earthy style, and she stays far away from any form of negativity. One conversation topic in particular on this edition of Positive Vibrations was about the day’s upcoming rally on the UCI campus. The rally was in protest of an 81% tuition fee increase proposed by the UC regents. Students, workers, and faculty were taking a stand and using their voice to fight for a higher quality education. In Sister Rue’s opinion, education is the key to the future, and has been rapidly diminishing with the budget decreases and tuition increases. On air, Sister Rue invited others to join her in the protest. Sister Rue fearlessly and openly believes in the “Power of the People”. It struck me as admirable when the gracious DJ, from behind the mic, told her listeners to “rise up effectively with style and respect.” Sister Rue encouraged people to embrace a protest when necessary, but wisely warned them to never make it about hate and anger. The fact that The Sister urged people to only protest in a manner becoming of style, respect, and positivity implies that she truly walks the walk, as these traits are the true fundamentals of reggae music.

Sister Rue included the song “Irie Ites” by Third World, in one of her sets. This was such a beautiful and fitting song for this specific show. Not only does Sister Rue refer to her listeners as “Irieites,” the show itself is really all about the Irie state of mind, or “to be at peace with yourself.” IRIE stands for “I Respect – I Eternally”, meaning have respect for yourself, and being happy with who you are.

Sister Rue leads a two hour block of Positive Vibrations every week. It’s reggae music with a powerful message. It’s a reminder for me to push away the negativity and to continue moving forward with a peaceful mind.

Tune in to @SisterRue on RadioFlag.
Positive Vibrations is on air Wednesdays 10 a.m.-1 p.m. PST on KUCI.

By Gold Dust and Stella Static
Email me with blog suggestions! – GoldDustRadio@gmail.com or StellaStatic@gmail.com
Tune in to me on RadioFlag: @GoldDust and @StellaStatic
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