Diane de la Paz of the Tacoma News Tribune writes about how problems with the FCC have one radio station, KISW 99.9 FM out of Seattle seemingly “toeing the line” between what the FCC is allowing on the air and what is going to keep them from getting fined - while still keeping their audience interested. Another station, KRWM 106.9 FM out of Bellvue, Washington, takes a completely different tact - and has for years and years now. The article describes KRWM as the station “you won’t be embarrassed to listen to while your kids are in the car” - and the station describes itself that way to listeners.
Two stations, two formats, two attitudes toward music and radio. Both seemingly successful in a market up to this point. They seem to be getting along just fine, probably having completely different target markets for listeners. There is a reason why KISW exists - it’s for people who don’t listen to what KRWM have to offer. And vice versa. Unfortunately, the way the FCC and many large media conglomerates are thinking, having a bunch of KRWMs out there is the “safe” bet. Unfortunately, alienating a lot of listeners comes with that decision, and I’m not sure that radio execs necessarily will fight the change, when it comes down to it.
