WKCR FM 89.9

WKCR FM 89.9 broadcasts on 89.9 FM from New York and is owned by Columbia University. The station traces its history to the Columbia University Radio Club, founded in 1908, and WKCR proper began broadcasting in 1941. Its programming is in English and includes alternative, community, jazz, classical, hip-hop, and other music programming. The station became an early college adopter of FM broadcasting in 1956, using facilities tied to Edwin Howard Armstrong’s work at Columbia. After the 1968 Columbia University protests, WKCR shifted from education-focused broadcasting toward alternative musical programming. It has been noted for its role in New York jazz, early salsa radio, and the 1990s hip-hop scene through The Stretch Armstrong and Bobbito Show. WKCR streams through its official website.