Mary Kathleen Burke
CEO at MKB Independent Radio
Welcome to MKB Independent Radio. A not-for-profit internet radio station . Created Launched in Oct 2019 by Singer/songwriter /recording artist Mary Kathleen Burke and based online to the world. Mary has been on Radio for 14 years and is well known for her own show "The Mary K Burke Show" which was until recently syndicated to ten radio stations throughout the world. After ten years of broadcasting for Celtic Music Radio in Glasgow Mary Created her own station with the help of her listeners throughout the world with one mission, To help promote Independent Music and songwriters. The station programming reflects Mary's wide and varied taste in music keeping a Celtic Vibe throughout from country roots western Swing, Old time country,Ceildh,Folk contempory and traditional, Rock n roll and much more.
All presenters are volunteers. All programming is also administered by Mary and the 24/7 rotation of music including all the latest releases from Independent Music Artists .
People are always asking me what motivates me to do my radio show and to run an internet radio station. I've thought about it a lot and below is my explanation.
Sixteen Years of Broadcasting: A Journey of Passion and Reflection
What Drives Me Every Week
For sixteen years, I have been broadcasting my radio show, pouring my heart into sharing music that resonates deeply with me and my listeners. As the proud owner of an internet radio station, each week has been a journey of discovery, connection, and self-expression—a labour of love sustained by my enduring passion for music and the stories it tells.
My Musical Roots
Music has always been a cornerstone of my life. As an Irish singer-songwriter who has lived in Scotland for 45 years, my heritage has profoundly shaped my musical palette. Scottish and Irish folk and Celtic music are not just genres I promote—they are the threads of my identity, woven into the fabric of my soul. Alongside these, my love extends to Country music in all its forms, Americana, Folk, and Roots music. These genres speak to me because they embody raw emotion, storytelling, and a connection to the land and its people.
But my musical journey is unique in its challenges. As someone who is dyslexic, I am unable to read music—a barrier that many might view as insurmountable. Yet, it has never stopped me. I taught myself guitar, relying on my ear for music rather than written notes. This ability to listen deeply has not only allowed me to perform but also to mentor others in their musical journeys. Music, for me, is not about technical perfection; it’s about the feeling, the connection, and the spark of emotion that brings it to life.
What Drives Me?
Over the years, I have often asked myself: why do I keep doing this? Week after week, for sixteen years, I have curated playlists, chosen songs and singers, promoted genres, and shared my love for music. And after much reflection, I have arrived at some conclusions.
Music is my sanctuary. Living with Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), music has been my anchor—a therapeutic outlet that allows me to navigate the complexities of my emotional world. The act of broadcasting, of connecting with people through music, has been a way to channel my struggles into something meaningful and uplifting.
My Playlists
My playlists are, in a sense, an extension of myself. I choose songs that strike an emotional chord, that resonate with the joys, sorrows, and moments of beauty in my life. I don’t approach music with a critic’s eye or a reviewer’s mindset. If a song touches me, if it sparks an emotion—even fleeting—it earns its place on my show. It’s not about analysing; it’s about feeling. And I believe that this raw authenticity is what draws listeners to my playlists.
The Power of Connection
One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey is the connection it fosters. Music is universal—it transcends borders, languages, and cultures. I am a connecter of people .Through my radio show, I have had the privilege of connecting with listeners from diverse backgrounds, all united by a shared love for the genres I promote. The attention my playlists receive is a testament to the power of music to bridge gaps and create communities.
Beyond the listeners, the artists themselves inspire me. Singer-songwriters, folk musicians, Celtic artists, and Americana performers remind me why I fell in love with music in the first place. Their vulnerability, craftsmanship, and ability to evoke emotion inspire me to keep going—to keep sharing, promoting, and celebrating the art that moves me.
Looking Back and Moving Forward
Reflecting on sixteen years of broadcasting, I feel immense gratitude for this journey. It has not been without its challenges—managing my mental health, overcoming dyslexia, and navigating the evolving landscape of radio—but it has been profoundly fulfilling. It is a testament to the resilience of passion and the transformative power of art.
Looking Ahead
As I look ahead, I remain committed to promoting the genres that shaped me and sharing music that stirs the soul. Whether it’s a Celtic ballad, a heartfelt Americana tune, or a roots-inspired melody, my goal is to continue connecting with listeners and celebrating the emotions that make us human.
In the end, my radio show is more than a platform—it’s a piece of me. And for as long as I can, I will keep broadcasting, week after week, driven by the love of music and the desire to share its magic with the world. Mary K Burke
