When Did FM Radio Stations Begin Playing Rock Music and Were There Any AM Stations That Had Rock Before Then?

Radio, a staple in homes and cars for decades, has seen significant changes in its programming and formats over the years. One of the most notable transitions was the shift from AM to FM, and how these radio stations began incorporating rock music into their lineups. This article explores the history of rock music on FM and AM radio, and delves into some of the early pioneers who paved the way for this change.

The Early Days: AM Radio and Rock Music

In the early days of radio, AM stations had a lock on music broadcasting, particularly rock music. During the 1950s and 1960s, AM radio was the main source for music and entertainment. Stations like WLW in Cincinnati, WOWO in Fort Wayne, WLS in Chicago, and WRVA in Richmond, VA were well-known for their rock and roll programming.

Take WLW for example, considered one of the biggest and most recognizable AM radio stations, known for its powerful 500KW signal. It originally broadcasted with a variety of programming, including news, sports, and occasional blues and rock shows. Chuck Jackson, a disc jockey who worked at WLW, played a key role in broadcasting rock music, often celebrating the genre. Another standout was John Landecker at WLS in Chicago, the host of the popular 'Midnight Arnies' show, which featured rock and roll music well into the late 1960s.

The Emergence of FM Radio

By 1962, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) began issuing licenses for FM radio, which promised a clearer and more vibrant audio experience. Initially, FM's power limitations compared to AM meant it didn't have the range to compete with its counterpart. Nonetheless, the FCC was eager to populate the FM band with numerous stations, leading to a rapid expansion.

However, the AM radio industry was content with their dominance in the music market, and many were unsure how to program the new FM stations. Consequently, many of the early FM stations opted to play classical music or other genres that didn't challenge their AM counterparts. In my area, for example, all the FM stations were broadcasting classical music.

The Transition to Rock

The shift towards rock music on FM radio began in the late 1970s. One of the first major FM stations to make this transition was a 100KW station, possibly in a large city, that decided to switch formats and started playing country music, which was a significant departure from the classical music norm. This station’s decision was revolutionary and caught the attention of the industry. Other FM stations quickly followed suit, changing their formats to include country and rock.

However, the real transformative step came when AM radio stations began diversifying their music content. While many AM stations had been playing rock music all along, the late 1970s saw a significant influx of rock into the programming mix. Stations like WLW continued to be a leader in rock music broadcasting, broadcasting a wide variety of rock staples. WRVA in Richmond, VA also continued its tradition of rock, focusing on a mix of classic and contemporary rock.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the landscape of radio broadcasting saw a significant shift as FM stations began incorporating rock music into their lineups, largely influenced by the pioneering efforts of AM stations. The transition from the clear but limited AM to the rich but constrained FM set the stage for a more diverse and dynamic broadcasting era. Fans of rock music, especially, had a lot to cheer about as the genre's reach expanded through the power of radio.

For more information about the evolution of music on radio, explore articles on the history of rock music, the early days of AM, and the role of pioneers in shaping the radio landscape.