KNAC FM 96.9 FM

An FM radio station broadcasting on 96.9 MHz in the Barstow, California area carrying a variety format with a heavy emphasis on hard rock and heavy metal. The original KNAC holds a notable place in American radio history as the first major-market FM station to dedicate its programming entirely to hard rock and heavy metal, doing so before the genre achieved full mainstream recognition. Its playlist encompassed a wide spectrum of the heavier end of rock, from glam metal acts such as Motley Crue, Ratt, and Poison, to thrash and speed metal including Metallica, Slayer, and Anthrax, as well as early grunge and alternative metal from bands like Soundgarden and Alice in Chains. The station also emphasized deep album cuts and fan favorites that received little airplay elsewhere, contributing to the careers of numerous artists who were overlooked by more conservative commercial outlets. The current incarnation of the brand maintains programming that reflects this hard rock heritage, including interview and music content with artists connected to the station's legacy.