Kevin Bronson on November 10th, 2008

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Nic Harcourt, whose presence at KCRW-FM made him one of the prime tastemakers in the music industry, is departing his role as music director of the Santa Monica-based station at the end of the month. The search for a successor has begun, the station announced this morning. Harcourt, the host of “Morning Becomes Eclectic” for 10 years, will keep a weekly show — the 6 to 9 p.m. slot on Sundays.

Under Harcourt, an early supporter of such artists as Coldplay, Moby, Massive Attack, Damien Rice and Norah Jones, among others, KCRW expanded its purview nationally, launching the “KCRW Presents” concert series.

“I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to come to work every day and be surrounded by creative and passionate people and I want to keep the connection alive on my Sunday show,” Harcourt said. “Since I arrived here, I’ve fulfilled many of my dreams as a music lover, meeting and interviewing legends like Neil Young, Paul McCartney, Willie Nelson and Cat Stevens (Yusuf). I’ve also been able to set the stage for future stars, introducing artists like Coldplay, Damien Rice, Dido and Norah Jones on KCRW’s airwaves. I’m equally proud to have played many unsigned and independent artists and to be a champion for Latin Alternative music.

“As a parent of two young children, I believe it’s time for me to explore new career opportunities and expand upon my other activities in movie, television, voice over work, advertising and the Internet.”