Looks like our own Jason Brown is prescient, as his article discussed the potential of introducing a Classic Hits station to C-U not too long ago. Well, that’s a reality now. Read all about it below.
From the press release:
WKIO-FM returns to Champaign-Urbana as Classic Hits station
CHAMPAIGN – Mike “in the Morning” Haile announced today that a new radio station hit the airwaves: Classic Hits 107.9 WKIO-FM. The station went live at 4 p.m., Tuesday, March 26. To kick it off, Haile selected thousands of his own favorite hits from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s; he plans to play 10,000 songs in a row before playing the first commercial.
“When I am out and about in the community, my favorite thing to do is talk to people about what they like to hear,” said Haile. “For the past few years, I have heard the same thought over and over again: ‘I just wish there was a station that played all my favorite songs from the best years of music.’”
Haile, who is the Vice President and General Manager of 107.9 WKIO Classic Hits-FM, Lite Rock 97.5 WHMS-FM and NewsTalk 1400 WDWS-AM, has been a part of this area’s radio community for 35 years. He started in 1978 at WKIO, and has been with Lite Rock 97.5 WHMS since the year 2000.
When Haile learned that the call letters WKIO were available, he made the decision to apply for the licensing. “Working at WKIO was a very positive experience for me,” said Haile. “I made so many friends on and off the air. That’s where I became known as Mike ‘in the Morning.’ Plus, I still hear from people all the time who remember the impact the station had on the community.”
107.9 WKIO Classic Hits is asking for input from the community as they build the station’s playlists and format. Everyone is welcome to share their favorite songs, artists and comments by visiting their website.
For more information, contact Mike Haile directly at (217) 351-5300 or email him.
