Listening to the radio can be frustrating. Whether it’s all the stations playing the same things, dealing with commercials, or dealing with “quirky” and “annoying” hosts, trying to find something decent to listen to can feel like a chore. That’s why I have compiled a short list of really cool college radio stations that play all different kinds of music. Fine, you might have to deal with some of the same “quirky” hosts, but all of these stations have fun and interactive shows to listen to!
WESS
East Stroudsburg University
This college located in eastern Pennsylvania won the 2014 MtvU Woodie Award for The Best College Radio Station. One of the traditions of this station is that they host something called Winterfest where they get artists from all different genres for live performances, interviews, and more. They also air vintage radio programs on weekday mornings.
WERG
Gannon University
Recent winner of the Intercollegiate Broadcasting System (IBS) Abraham & Borst Award for Best College Station in the Nation, this small college in Erie, PA takes its radio station seriously. Year after year they are in the running for multiple awards and have amassed listeners outside of the university. Their Sunday lineup is really fun as it includes everything from Good Morning Gospel to Festa Italiana to The Polka Party.
WICB
Ithaca University
WICB was this year’s top ranked College Radio Station by The Princeton Review. They mostly broadcast modern rock music, but have a lot of cool shows that focus on other genres including City Rhythms for Rap and R&B, Jazz Impressions for Jazz, and Reggae Explosions for Reggae. They also have a show entirely dedicated to funk music on Fridays from 6-7:30, which is the perfect way to start the weekend.
WBAR
Barnard College
No matter what kind of music you like, WBAR has it. They are on the air 24/7 with student DJs from both Columbia and Barnard playing any kind of show you can think of. Check out Pusha T is DIY if you’re into rap, Off Your Rocker if you like folk, blues, or punk, or Cowgirl: Hall of Fame if you want the classic blend of jazz, soul, and rockabilly. And if you are ever craving some brass instruments, French Horns & Taco Bells is right up your alley.
Radio DePaul
DePaul University
Radio DePaul won multiple IBS awards this year and in year’s past. It is home to all of the DePaul Blue Demon’s various sports teams and has a strong and diverse lineup of music as well. Also, on their website, they post the DJ’s phone number so anybody can text the DJ to make a request. Listen in to shows like Popaganda for all kinds of alternative music or Continental Drift for music from around the world.
