Rest in Peace, Local X

We were a shocked to hear rumors about an abrupt demise of Local X, Charleston radio station 98X’s weekly three-hour local music show. Initially, we assumed it was a slight (or temporary) programming adjustment or something. Unfortunately, it turned out to be a sudden end to a popular and vital program that consistently covered tons of local music.

It’s also the end of an era, as Local X host and longtime jockey Amy Hutto (pictured) was laid off entirely. “Local X has been a great addition to the station over the last few years and Amy Hutto has become a staple in the local music scene famous for her championing of bands and their causes,” Mike Allen, operations manager and program director at 98X and sister station the Bridge at 105.5 (both of which are part of L.M. Communications), stated this week. “She spearheaded creating a brand for the radio station including spending hours and hours on a much heralded pair of Local Xmas CDs.”

On her Myspace page last week, Hutto posted a blog announcement on the matter, stating, “I no longer work for 98X. I have nothing bad to say. I got laid off due to budget cuts in this troubling economy. I have many mixed emotions running through my head. I’m mad. I’m hurt. I’m disappointed. I’m confused. I’m lost. I’m angry. I’m sad. For the last 10 1/2 years, I have poured my heart and soul into my work. Blood, sweat, and tears. It’s the end of an era for me. And, it’s really scary.”

She added, “I am very thankful for all the opportunities and people I have met during the last decade. I really do count my blessings for all the love and support from out the many years.”

Hutto presented the Sun. Jan. 25 installment as the “Farewell Local X show.” Local X put the spotlight on mostly heavy-rockers from the Charleston and the Carolina scene, many of whom may have never received airplay or acknowledgement from commercial radio at all. It shall be sorely missed.

The show often scored as a City Paper critic favorite in the annual “Best of Charleston” issues.

Keep an eye on www.98xonline.com for more updates.

(photo by Nancy Santos)

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