The United States’ media capital New York City loses 98.7 Kiss FM radio, the sole station focused on Rhythm and Blues.
Known as the home of “Old School & Today’s R&B,” the station first started playing urban contemporary music in 1981. Throughout the years, the company has housed radio personalities including Wendy Williams, DJ Red Alert, Ed Lover, Michael Baisden, Roberta Flack, and Ashford & Simpson.
WRKS (98.7 FM, Kiss-FM) will merge with long-time rival WBLS (107.5 FM) to become “One Family, One Station.” ESPN will takeover over the 98.7 FM radio frequency which Disney acquired from Emmis Communication.
For over thirty years, 98.7 FM has been a media pillar for African-American media. The lost will undoubtedly effect artist fighting to have their music heard in the competitive radio market.
New York City has long been known for its rich culture and vibrant music scene. However, one of the city’s most beloved R&B stations recently fell silent, leaving many saddened by the loss. 98.7 FM was NYC’s sole source for R&B tunes, but it’s now gone for good. This article will explore why the station shut down and what this means for New Yorkers who enjoyed listening to their favorite songs on the airwaves.
For nearly two decades, 98.7 FM had been a staple in the Big Apple’s musical landscape, playing classic hits from all eras as well as introducing some new sounds to listeners every day. It provided an oasis of soulful grooves that kept people’s spirits high throughout the hustle and bustle of everyday life in the city. Unfortunately, after years of low ratings and declining popularity, the decision was made to take off the station’s plug permanently at the end of last year.
The demise of NYC’s only dedicated R&B radio station is sure to leave a void that won’t be easily filled; however, there are still several other ways that fans can access similar content online or through streaming services such as Pandora or Spotify. Nevertheless, loyalists everywhere will likely never forget how much joy they felt when tuning into 98.7 each day – whether it was during their morning commute or just hanging out with friends – and will continue to miss those days dearly once more time passes on without its presence around town anymore..
History Of 98.7 Fm
98.7 FM was a radio station located in New York City that specialized in Rhythm & Blues (R&B) music. It began broadcasting on June 23, 1940 as WRVR-FM and quickly become one of the most popular stations in the city. The station was known for playing iconic R&B hits from artists such as Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross and Aretha Franklin.
For more than three decades, 98.7 FM played an important role in the development of both local and national music scenes with its unique blend of funk, soul, jazz and blues genres. In addition to providing listeners with great music, it also hosted several popular shows like “The Quiet Storm” which featured romantic ballads and slow jams throughout its run.
Unfortunately, due to financial difficulties in 2008, 98.7 FM had to shut down operations; ending the legacy of one of NYC’s greatest R&B stations forever. Nevertheless, many people still fondly remember their time listening to this beloved station while others continue celebrating its impact on modern music today.
Impact On The Nyc Music Scene
The influence of 98.7 FM on the New York City music scene is undeniable and ongoing. During its run, it was responsible for introducing listeners to some of the most beloved R&B artists in history while also providing a platform for up-and-coming talent to be heard. This station helped create an unforgettable sound that resonated with many people across generations and continues to shape the musical landscape today.
As one of the first major radio stations devoted entirely to R&B music, 98.7 FM opened doors for both local and national acts who were previously overlooked by other outlets. It provided an outlet for lesser known artists to get their music out into the world, leading to more exposure than ever before. Furthermore, it gave a voice to those whose stories had been silenced or ignored elsewhere; creating an invaluable resource for lovers of this genre from all walks of life.
Even though 98.7 FM has long since gone off air, its legacy still lives on in countless ways. From classic songs playing through car speakers during summer days in NYC to popular playlists available online, there’s no denying how much impact this station had – and continues to have – on modern culture worldwide.
Conclusion
I. Summary
For over two decades, 98.7 FM was New York City’s sole R&B station and had a huge impact on the local music scene. From hosting live shows to sponsoring events, this radio station served as an important force in the city’s culture. But after years of financial difficulties, 98.7 FM went off the air in 2019, leaving behind an irreplaceable void in NYC’s musical landscape.
II. Reflection
It’s hard to believe that something so integral to my life is no longer around – I used to turn on 98.7 FM every day! Its absence makes me realize how much we take these things for granted until they’re gone forever. It also serves as a reminder that nothing stays the same; change is inevitable, even when it comes to something close to our hearts like music.
III Conclusion
Although we may not have access to its broadcasts anymore, memories of 98.7 FM will live on through all those who were lucky enough to experience its magic firsthand. As time passes and new sounds come into prominence, let us continue to remember what this iconic radio station meant and still means today: a celebration of NYC’s unique musical identity and legacy.
