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WXPN Welcomes Joey Sweeney as New Saturday Host of "Sleepy Hollow"

Published by New Jersey Stage

originally published: 07/30/2025

(PHILADELPHIA, PA) -- WXPN, the non-commercial, member-supported radio station of the University of Pennsylvania, is pleased to announce that acclaimed Philadelphia writer, musician, and creative director Joey Sweeney will become the new Saturday morning host of Sleepy Hollow, beginning Saturday, August 9, 2025.

A beloved weekend tradition, Sleepy Hollow is known for its thoughtful blend of folk, jazz, and atmospheric sounds—an early-morning invitation to slow down and reflect. With his deep roots in storytelling and a finely tuned ear for mood and melody, Sweeney brings a fitting new voice to the program.

“I’m truly honored to help carry the torch for this beloved show that’s been a part of people’s lives for over 50 years,” says Sweeney. “It’s a dream time slot — to connect with folks in this soulful, contemplative moment in their week is something really special. Having only recently discovered mornings myself, I can’t wait to share the best, deepest music I can find.”

Sweeney’s work—as a musician, writer, and curator of vibes—has long explored themes of emotion, memory, and place. Whether fronting The Trouble with Sweeney or Joey Sweeney & The Neon Grease, crafting essays and short stories, or shaping the atmosphere at 48 Record Bar, he has built a body of work grounded in reflection and storytelling. His music and writing have appeared in outlets including Pitchfork and DaCapo’s Best Music Writing, where his lyrical, narrative-driven style has earned him a devoted following.

“Joey has a voice and sensibility that fits beautifully into the world of Sleepy Hollow,” said Jim McGuinn, WXPN’s Acting Program Director. “He understands that this show isn’t just about music—it’s about mood, intention, and shared experience. We’re thrilled to welcome him to the Saturday morning airwaves.”

Sleepy Hollow airs weekends from 6:00am to 10:00am on WXPN. Joey Sweeney will host Saturdays beginning August 9. Keith Kelleher will continue as Sunday host, and longtime Sleepy Hollow curator Chuck Elliott will continue to host Sleepy Hollow special editions and themed broadcasts.

WXPN, the nationally recognized leader in Triple A radio and the premier guide for discovering new and significant artists in rock, blues, roots, and folk, is the non-commercial, member-supported, public radio service of the University of Pennsylvania. WXPN produces World Cafe, public radio’s most popular program of popular music that is distributed by NPR to 300 U.S. radio stations, and the Peabody Award-winning Kids Corner which now offers a 24-hour family music streaming service. WXPN produces XPoNential Radio on XPN2 as its secondary radio channel in HD, also available online.




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EVENT PREVIEWS

(NEWARK, NJ) -- Newark will see a night of reggae's best when Beres Hammond and Beenie Man perform live at Prudential Center on Saturday, August 20, 2026 at 8:00pm. Experience the artistry of Beres Hammond, one of Jamaica's most esteemed vocalists, as he graces the stage with Marcia Griffiths and Baby Cham. It will be an exceptional evening featuring the captivating performances of reggae music, showcasing soulful melodies and heartfelt expressions.
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FEATURED EVENTS


Glen Burtnik’s Summer of Love Concert

Thursday, August 20, 2026 @ 8:00pm
Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC)
100 South Street, Morristown, NJ


DJ Drewski - Mayor's Summer Concert Series

Thursday, August 20, 2026 @ 7:00pm
Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC)
1601 Irving Street, Rahway, NJ


Summer Nights Concert: Singer/Songwriter Showcase

Thursday, August 20, 2026 @ 7:00pm
Middletown Arts Center
36 Church Street, Middletown, NJ


IMAGINE LENNON LIVE

Saturday, August 22, 2026 @ 7:30pm
Lizzie Rose Music Room
217 E. Main Street, Tuckerton, NJ


Ready or Yacht: The Best of Yacht Rock

Saturday, August 22, 2026 @ 8:00pm
Algonquin Arts Theatre
60 Abe Voorhees Drive, Manasquan, NJ



 

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