KLSP - 97.1 FM

KLSP is the only FCC licensed radio station to operate from within a prison by inmate disc jockeys.  Although KLSP, known as the "Incarceration Station," operates at 100 watts, it reaches approximately 6,000 people (staff, inmates and visitors).  KLSP, a non-commercial station, has been entertaining, and more importantly educating, its listeners since August 12, 1986.

Prison officials desired a way to communicate to all the inmate population at once, especially when emergency information had to be conveyed.  A radio station appeared to be a solution to this problem.  With support of the Angola Education Foundation (comprised of the late Sidney Levet, III, George Swift, Louise Lowman, Revered Arnold Norsworthy, and Warden Burl Cain), KLSP has been able to both inform the inmate population by allowing prison officials the ability to address them at once and entertain the masses with gospel, jazz, blues, rock-n-roll, country, and oldies but goodies.  The format also includes educational and religious programs.

During the historic flood of 1997, KLSP aided its listeners by broadcasting nightly interviews with Warden Burl Cain.  Due to the fact that open communication existed between the Warden and the inmates, the evacuation of over 3,000 inmates occurred without a single incident. The inmates had been informed throughout the month long ordeal and knowing exactly what to do in case an evacuation was necessary.

Most importantly, it’s the enjoyment the men can receive through music. In a place where they must always remain, music can make their time seem less hopeless. This contributes to their outlook and institutes a positive morale.  As a result, there is less violence which enables the maintenance of public safety.

The prison administration is actively seeking avenues to enhance capabilities of KLSP-97.1 FM.

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