Radio waves are about to get a shake-up in Tulsa! Griffin Media is making a bold move, swapping call letters between its two country music stations to celebrate a major milestone. This change is all about honoring a legendary radio presence.
Country music fans, get ready! "98.5 The Bull" is trading in its call letters for KXBL, which has been associated with 99.5 since 2001. Meanwhile, KVOO-FM is moving to Classic Country, becoming "Big Country 99.5." This switch officially kicks off on Monday, January 5th.
But here's where it gets interesting: this reshuffle is all part of Griffin Media's plan to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the KVOO call letters in Tulsa. The original 1170 KVOO first hit the airwaves back in June 1926. Imagine, a century of broadcasting! KVOO was a cornerstone of the country format for years, until it switched to Talk radio in 2002. The brand then found a new home on 98.5, before evolving into "98.5 The Bull" in December 2020. And this is the part most people miss: 99.5, previously known as "99.5 The Bull," is now embracing the "Big Country" identity, a nod to the format used by 1170 when it transitioned to Classic Country in 2003.
Don Cristi, Griffin Media's Director of Radio Operations & Programming, shared his enthusiasm, stating it's an honor to keep the KVOO legacy alive. KVOO was the first station to broadcast live from Cain's Ballroom with Bob Wills & the Texas Playboys, the home of Country Music Hall of Famer Billy Parker, and helped launch the careers of country music legends.
Tanner Messer, 99.5's Brand Manager, also expressed his excitement. He highlighted the station's deep roots in Oklahoma, and his personal connection to KVOO. He's been collaborating with KVOO alumni to ensure the celebration is a fitting tribute to the station's history and its listeners.
What do you think about this change? Will it affect your listening habits? Do you have any favorite memories of KVOO? Share your thoughts in the comments!
