About Phil Kessler of Murphy’s Magic Mess

Rev. Philipp J. Kessler

Phil Kessler is the current host of Murphy’s Magic Mess on KZUM-Lincoln/KZUM-HD 89.3FM in Lincoln, NE. Murphy’s Magic Mess is the oldest and longest-running Pagan content radio program. He has been a part of the show since January 2009 and also hosts Lavender Hill on KZUM. Both shows can be heard live through the website, on the radio locally, and on your favorite mobile listening apps Sunday mornings from 9-noon Central Time.

Phil has been a part of the Lincoln area Pagan community since the mid-1990s and is also active in the local LGBTQIA+ community. He served as co-grand marshal of the first-ever Star City Pride Parade in Lincoln in the summer of 2021. He is a published author and is on hiatus from podcasting while settling into a new career. You can catch archives of his podcast through the Pagan-Musings Podcast Channel on YouTube and Blog Talk Radio and find his books on Amazon – be sure and look for Philipp J. Kessler.

Phil’s Blog posts

AI Music: Baneful or Magical?

In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has become commonplace. So much so that we see it creeping into our creative worlds. Not just in memes and so-called works of art. It has crept into our viewing, listening, and reading pleasures, and our artistic ventures.  As you all know, I do...
graphic with the words art/artist

Separate the Art from the Artist

Hey, friends! It has been some time since I have contributed to this wonderful resource on Pagan music. I am so glad to be back and share with you! As a non-musician on this platform, I tend to go in different directions with my contributions. This article might make you...

If You Can’t Laugh, You’re Doing It Wrong

My high priestess has a saying, “If you can’t laugh in Circle you are doing it wrong.” Don’t get her wrong, there is reason for solemnity in most rituals and celebrations, but you must learn to laugh at yourself. I am going to help you see some of the humor...
radio in the wild

Creating a Ritual Soundtrack For Radio

If you have been listening to the Magic Mess on KZUM for any length of time, you are probably familiar with our Sabbat Ritual Soundtrack series. On the Sunday closest to the Sabbat, we present to you a ritual soundtrack that can be used for a solitary or group ritual...

What is Pagan Music?

As a radio programmer or DJ, I am often asked “What is Pagan Music?” or “What makes this song Pagan?” What is Pagan music isn’t always as simple to answer as you might think. Of course, you could say that the artist is Pagan or the theme is Pagan. But...