WZBC 90.3 FM

A radio station serving Boston and surrounding western suburbs, owned and operated by Boston College. The station began in 1960 as an on-campus carrier-current AM station called WVBC broadcasting through building electrical wiring. Following a 13-year period of campus-only service, Boston College obtained an FM license and transitioned to the present station in 1974, initially operating at 17 watts with diverse music ranging from folk to country to rock. A 1975 power increase brought output to 1,000 watts, significantly expanding coverage area. The station began stereo broadcasting in 1979. Programming includes alternative and indie rock during daytime hours, expanding to diverse evening formats including funk, lounge, and Middle Eastern music, with nighttime focus on experimental material. Additional programming includes Boston College Eagles sports broadcasts and public affairs shows, among them the nationally syndicated Democracy Now! weekday program. The station's on-air staff includes student personnel and members of the surrounding Boston community. The station's main campus studios are located in the college library, with transmitter facilities at the corner of Beacon and Hammond Streets.