About

Davia Schendel is an artist, musician and writer whose songs incorporate themes of surrealism, nostalgia and existentialism. A born and raised San Franciscan, join her on her journey exploring her hometown's powerful cultural legacy on San Francisco Retro at BFF.FM!

In addition to her music making, she writes a newsletter, Zeitgeist Deterrent, which provides insight into her day to day life and creative process.

Bandcamp

Spotify

Shows

San Francisco Retro

Join host and musician Davia Schendel as she uncovers San Francisco's rich musical heritage, from the early days of radio till the present moment. Featuring occasional special guests, archival audio from concerts, and more.

Recent Shows

It's Hot!

June 11 2026

SFRetro 120 mins

Interview with Rae Alexandra

June 4 2026

Tune in as we chat with author and KQED journalist Rae Alexandra about her new book, "Unsung Heroines: 35 Women Who Changed the Bay Area," published…

SFRetro 120 mins

Debora Iyall of Romeo Void

May 28 2026

Tune in as we chat with the SF new wave/punk legend Debora Iyall of Romeo Void.

SFRetro 120 mins

Disco Funk RnB

May 21 2026

The Bay has produced some of the best disco funk and RnB heard on the planet. Tune in and discover classics and deep cuts of the…

SFRetro 120 mins

Blog Posts

Interview: BEL on SF Retro

11:47am March 9 2026

Hot off the tail of the release of her debut album, Los Angeles-based artist and California native BEL stopped by the studio to chat with Davia about her songwriting process, touring, and her influences. Read More →

Dive Into the Sound Spiral: Behind the Mic with DJ Arc Antica

10:00am January 19 2026

Ready to dive into a world of dreamy shoegaze, seashell pop and more? Go behind the mic as we get to know DJ Arc Antica and their new BFF.fm show, Sound Spiral. Read More →

SF Retro Interview with Chloe Montoya (CLOVIS)

3:12pm December 4 2025

Listen in as Davia of SF Retro chats with SF born and raised singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Chloe Montoya, aka CLOVIS, fresh off the release of their debut EP. Read More →

SF Retro Interview with CHALK

1:32pm November 18 2025

Check out Davia from SF Retro's conversation with Belfast band CHALK as they embark on their first US tour in support of their excellent techno punk EP, Conditions III. Read More →