This year marks the 50th anniversary of Weber State University’s radio station KWCR and the first year it has debuted an all-digital format. Formerly known as 88.1 (KWCR-FM), the newly all-digital format allows anyone to live stream and listen to KWCR from anywhere in the world.
KWCR has undergone other transitions as well, their new slogan is “KWCR Wildcat Radio” and they recently redesigned their logo.
“We already had the ability to stream online. We’ve had that online presence in the past, so now, kind of stepping into that digital space was an easy transition for us. We were already there. It was kind of cutting the cord I guess, if you will, on that FM antennae,” said Andrew Leon, the general manager of KWCR.“It’s a chance to start over, it’s pretty cool that it was on the 50-year mark. It wraps it up into a nice little package.”
Promotions assistant Anastasia Drandakis said that switching to an all-digital format gave KWCR “a clean slate to gain new followers for that new experience in this new generation of KWCR.”
Besides being the promotions assistant, Drandakis is hosting a new KWCR show titled “The Muse.” It airs every Monday night at 8 p.m. and features live readings inspired by Weber State University’s interdisciplinary journal “Metaphor,” which is created entirely by undergraduate students.
The new format features new variety shows and podcasts as well as coverage of all of WSU’s major sports events that take place. Program director, Spencer Hart, said that KWCR really wants to give people the real DJ experience through pushing the all-digital format and giving people podcasts they can record and take with them.
Domingos Latinos is one of the most followed shows on KWCR according to Drandakis. Domingos Latinos is an all-Spanish show that airs on Sundays, and boasts followers from Spanish speakers all over the world. The show’s host has even received fan mail from out of the country.
Content director, Erik Bremer, says that the new all-digital format makes KWCR more accessible for all types of listeners. KWCR has gained more likes and shares on social media since they have transitioned, and they are easier to find on the internet and social media.
The new format allows KWCR staff to focus their efforts on live shows and podcasts. The staff of KWCR is becoming more active in the community. KWCR recently celebrated College Radio Day by sponsoring two events featuring live musical performances at Grounds for Coffee on 3005 Harrison Blvd. and the bar Alleged on Historic 25th Street in Ogden.
The College Radio Day celebration at Alleged featured live performances by Josaleigh Pollett, Clint Stanger and the Honey Suns. Both Josaleigh Pollett and Clint Stanger are former Weber State University students.
KWCR is currently hiring announcers. Individuals interested in applying for an announcer position for KWCR should stop by the radio station for more information.
For more information visit the KWCR Facebook page or download the Weber State University Buzz app.
