What is the primary identity and broadcast frequency of WARH?

WARH is an FM radio station broadcasting at 106.5 MHz, known by its branding "106-5 The Arch."

Where is WARH officially licensed, and what geographical area does it serve?

WARH is licensed to Granite City, Illinois, and primarily serves the Greater St. Louis area, which encompasses parts of both Illinois and Missouri.

Who currently owns WARH, and what is the specific entity holding its FCC license?

WARH is owned by Hubbard Broadcasting, with the specific FCC license held by St. Louis FCC License Sub, LLC.

What is the main radio format that WARH broadcasts?

The main radio format for WARH is adult hits, featuring a mix of popular songs from various decades, typically appealing to a broad adult audience.

When did WARH first begin broadcasting?

WARH first went on air on November 24, 1965.

What is the significance of the WARH call sign and its branding "The Arch"?

The call sign WARH and its branding "The Arch" pay tribute to the iconic Gateway Arch monument located in Downtown St. Louis, a prominent landmark in the station's broadcast area.

How does WARH's programming approach differ from syndicated Jack FM stations, despite a similar musical format?

While WARH's adult hits format is musically similar to syndicated Jack FM stations, "The Arch" distinguishes itself by employing a live and local DJ staff around the clock, whereas Jack FM stations are largely automated without live voices.

Who provides the voice imaging for WARH, and what is his past association with a similar radio network?

Howard Cogan provides the voice imaging for WARH; he was previously the voice for the network syndicated version of Jack FM.

What content is broadcast on WARH's HD2 subchannel, and what was its previous format?

WARH-HD2 currently carries a simulcast of co-owned KTMY from Minneapolis, known as "My Talk Radio." Prior to March 2017, this subchannel featured less familiar rock songs from the 1960s to the present, branded as "106-5 The Deep."

What format is available on WARH's HD3 subchannel, and when did it launch on this frequency?

WARH-HD3 broadcasts an all-80s hits format branded as "My 80s Mix." This format launched on WARH-HD3 in May 2021, having been moved from KSHE's HD3 sub-channel.

Where is WARH's transmitter located?

The transmitter for WARH is located near Resurrection Cemetery off Mackenzie Road in St. Louis.

What was WARH's initial call sign and format when it first signed on in 1965?

When the station first signed on on November 24, 1965, its call sign was WGNU-FM, and it broadcast a country music format, simulcasting its AM counterpart, WGNU (920 AM).

Who was the initial owner of WGNU-FM?

Chuck Norman was the initial owner of WGNU-FM when it first began broadcasting.

What significant change occurred in 1977 regarding WGNU-FM's ownership and signal coverage?

In 1977, Chuck Norman sold the FM station to Doubleday Broadcasting Co., a subsidiary of Doubleday and Company, which subsequently boosted the station's signal to cover most of the St. Louis radio market.

What were the call sign changes and format adopted by the station after its sale to Doubleday Broadcasting in 1977?

After the sale to Doubleday Broadcasting in 1977, the station's call sign was changed to WWWK, and later to KWK-FM, adopting an album oriented rock (AOR) format, simulcasting KWK (1380 AM).

When did Doubleday sell the stations, and to whom?

Doubleday sold the stations to Robinson Broadcasting in 1984.

How did the simulcast between the AM and FM stations end in 1986, and what new formats were adopted?

The simulcast ended in 1986 when AM 1380 changed to an oldies format as KGLD, while FM 106.5 (then KWK-FM) transitioned to a Top 40/CHR (Contemporary Hit Radio) format.

Who acquired the stations in 1986 after the format changes?

Chase Broadcasting purchased the stations in 1986.

What call sign change and rebranding occurred for the FM station in February 1988?

In February 1988, KWK-FM changed its call letters to WKBQ-FM and rebranded as "Q106.5," while maintaining its Top 40 format.

What impact did KHTR's format change have on WKBQ in late 1988?

After KHTR, a prominent CHR station in the market, dropped its format in November 1988, WKBQ became the sole Top 40 station in the St. Louis market until KHTK launched in August 1989.

Describe the brief programming shift and subsequent return to mainstream for WKBQ-FM in 1989-1990.

In mid-1989, WKBQ-FM briefly adopted a rock-leaning sound, but by mid-1990, it reverted to a mainstream Top 40 direction.

Which morning team joined WKBQ-FM in September 1991, and from where did they originate?

The morning team of "Steve & DC" joined WKBQ-FM in September 1991, having previously worked in Birmingham, Alabama.

What controversies did the "Steve & DC" morning team and WKBQ-FM face in 1993 and 1994?

In 1993, "Steve & DC" and WKBQ-FM encountered controversy due to the use of a racial epithet on air. The following year, they aired an interview with a woman accusing a local broadcaster of harassment, which may have contributed to his death by suicide in a small plane crash.

Who purchased WKBQ-FM in late 1993, and what significant frequency and format swap occurred in January 1994?

In late 1993, Zimmer Radio Group of Cape Girardeau, Missouri, purchased WKBQ-FM. On January 20, 1994, WKBQ-FM swapped frequencies with its country-formatted sister station WKKX, resulting in WKBQ-FM moving to 104.1 FM and WKKX moving to 106.5 FM.

What was the new branding for 106.5 FM after the 1994 frequency swap, and how did the "Steve & DC" morning show perform?

After the 1994 swap, 106.5 FM became "New Country Kix 106.5," and the "Steve & DC" morning show, now on this frequency for the second time, achieved its highest ratings in St. Louis, consistently ranking No. 1 in the Persons 18-49 and Persons 25-54 demographics.

When did Emmis Broadcasting acquire the station?

Emmis Broadcasting bought the station in November 1996.

What ownership change and format transition occurred for WKKX in 2000?

In 2000, Emmis swapped WKKX to Bonneville International in exchange for Los Angeles country music station KZLA. Following this, at 12:00 a.m. on October 4, 2000, WKKX changed its call letters to WSSM and adopted a Smooth Jazz format, initially branded as "Smooth 106.5" and later as "106.5 Smooth Jazz."

When did the station adopt its current adult hits format and WARH call letters, and what was the first song played under the new format?

On April 10, 2005, the station adopted its current adult hits format, branded as "106-5 The Arch." The first song played was "Roll With the Changes" by REO Speedwagon. The station officially adopted its current WARH call letters on April 18, 2005.

Who was the initial Program Director for WARH under the "106-5 The Arch" branding, and who holds that position currently?

Jules Riley initially programmed WARH under its "106-5 The Arch" branding. Since 2019, Marty Linck has served as the Program Director, also holding the same role for sister station KSHE.

What was the primary slogan used by "106-5 The Arch"?

The primary slogan used by "106-5 The Arch" is "You never know what we're going to play next."

When did Bonneville International announce the sale of WARH and other stations to Hubbard Broadcasting, and when was the sale finalized?

Bonneville International announced the sale of WARH and 16 other stations to Minneapolis-based Hubbard Broadcasting on January 19, 2011. The sale was completed on April 29, 2011.

What is WARH's Facility ID as registered with the FCC?

WARH's Facility ID with the FCC is 74577.

What is the broadcast class of WARH?

WARH is classified as a C1 broadcast station.

What is WARH's Effective Radiated Power (ERP)?

WARH operates with an Effective Radiated Power (ERP) of 90,000 watts.

What is WARH's Height Above Average Terrain (HAAT)?

WARH's Height Above Average Terrain (HAAT) is 309 meters (1014 ft).

What are the transmitter coordinates for WARH?

The transmitter coordinates for WARH are 38°34′24″N 90°19′30″W (38.5734°N 90.3251°W).

Which other radio stations are considered sister stations to WARH under Hubbard Broadcasting?

WARH's sister stations include KPNT, KSHE, WIL-FM, and WXOS.

What was the call sign and format of the station immediately preceding WSSM?

Immediately preceding WSSM, the station was known as WKKX and broadcast a country music format.

What was the call sign of the station that simulcasted with WGNU-FM when it first signed on?

WGNU-FM, when it first signed on, simulcasted with WGNU (920 AM).

What was the call sign of the AM station that simulcasted with KWK-FM during its AOR format?

During its AOR format, KWK-FM simulcasted with KWK (1380 AM), which is now known as KXFN.

What was the call sign of the AM station that simulcasted WKBQ-FM in 1993?

In 1993, WKBQ-FM was again simulcasted on AM 1380.

What was the call sign of the AM station that continued to simulcast WKBQ-FM after the 1994 frequency swap?

AM 1380 continued to simulcast WKBQ-FM even after the 1994 frequency swap.

What was the name of the Los Angeles country music station that Bonneville International traded for WKKX in 2000?

Bonneville International traded Los Angeles country music station KZLA (now KLLI) for WKKX in 2000.

What is the current status of WARH's HD Radio broadcast?

WARH broadcasts in the HD Radio format, offering its main programming on HD1 and additional subchannels (HD2 and HD3) with different content.

What is the name of the image referenced in the infobox for WARH?

The infobox for WARH includes an image titled 'WARHFM.jpg,' which visually represents the radio station.

What is the name of the image referenced in the history section for the AOR format period?

The history section for the AOR format period includes an image titled 'KWK_StereoWK.jpg,' which is a logo for KWK / StereoWK from approximately 1980.

Warh Wiki: WARH: The Sonic Evolution of St. Louis Radio

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Station Overview

Geographic Footprint

WARH, broadcasting at 106.5 MHz, is officially licensed to Granite City, Illinois. However, its primary service area extends across the expansive Greater St. Louis metropolitan region, encompassing significant portions of both Illinois and Missouri. This strategic positioning allows it to reach a broad audience within this vibrant bi-state area.

"106.5 The Arch" Identity

The station operates under the distinctive branding "106.5 The Arch," a name that pays homage to the iconic Gateway Arch monument, a defining symbol of Downtown St. Louis. Its core programming features an adult hits radio format, characterized by the slogan, "You never know what we're going to play next." This approach offers a diverse musical selection to its listeners.

Live & Local Distinction

While its musical format shares similarities with syndicated "Jack FM" stations found across the U.S. and Canada, WARH distinguishes itself through its commitment to live and local programming. Unlike the largely automated "Jack" stations, "The Arch" features a dedicated team of live DJs around the clock, fostering a more personal connection with its audience. The station's voice imaging is notably provided by Howard Cogan, who previously served as the voice for the syndicated version of Jack FM.

Broadcast & Technical

Frequency & Signal

WARH transmits on the 106.5 MHz frequency, utilizing the advanced HD Radio format. This digital broadcasting capability allows for enhanced audio quality and the provision of multiple subchannels. The station's powerful signal, with an Effective Radiated Power (ERP) of 90,000 watts and a Height Above Average Terrain (HAAT) of 309 meters (1014 ft), ensures extensive coverage across the Greater St. Louis area.

Operational Hubs

The station's studios and administrative offices are strategically located in Creve Coeur, Missouri, although a St. Louis address is commonly used for official correspondence. The transmitter, a critical component of its broadcast infrastructure, is situated near Resurrection Cemetery off Mackenzie Road in St. Louis, optimizing its reach across the metropolitan landscape.

HD Radio Subchannels

Leveraging its HD Radio capabilities, WARH offers additional programming via its digital subchannels, expanding its content offerings beyond the primary adult hits format.

WARH-HD2: This subchannel currently simulcasts "My Talk Radio," originating from co-owned KTMY in Minneapolis-St. Paul. Prior to March 2017, WARH-HD2 was known as "106-5 The Deep," featuring a selection of less familiar rock songs spanning from the 1960s to the contemporary era.
WARH-HD3: Launched in May 2021, this subchannel is dedicated to an all-80s hits format, branded as "My 80s Mix." This programming was previously broadcast on KSHE's HD3 subchannel before its relocation to WARH-HD3.

Historical Trajectory

A Legacy of Evolution

The station currently known as WARH has undergone a series of significant transformations in its call signs, ownership, and musical formats since its inception. This dynamic history reflects the evolving landscape of radio broadcasting in the St. Louis market, adapting to listener preferences and ownership changes over several decades.

Key Eras and Call Signs:

1965–1977: WGNU-FM (Country)
- First aired on November 24, 1965, as the FM counterpart to WGNU (920 AM).
- Owned by Chuck Norman, simulcasting a country music format for Granite City.
1977–1986: WWWK / KWK-FM (AOR)
- Norman sold the station to Doubleday Broadcasting Co. in 1977.
- Signal boosted to cover most of the St. Louis market.
- Call sign changed to WWWK, then KWK-FM, simulcasting the Album Oriented Rock (AOR) format of KWK (1380 AM, now KXFN) as "Stereo WK."
- Sold to Robinson Broadcasting in 1984.
1986–1993: KWK-FM / WKBQ-FM (Top 40)
- Simulcast ended in 1986; AM 1380 became KGLD (oldies).
- FM 106.5 (KWK-FM) transitioned to a Top 40/CHR format.
- Sold to Chase Broadcasting in 1986.
- February 1988: Call letters changed to WKBQ-FM, rebranded as "Q106.5."
- Became the sole Top 40 station after KHTR dropped its format in November 1988.
- Briefly rock-lean in mid-1989, returning to mainstream by mid-1990.
- September 1991: Introduced the "Steve & DC" morning team from Birmingham, Alabama.
- 1993: Faced controversy regarding a racial epithet and an interview that may have contributed to a local broadcaster's death by suicide.
- 1993: WKBQ-FM was again simulcast on AM 1380.
1993–2000: WKKX (Country)
- Late 1993: Purchased by Zimmer Radio Group.
- January 20, 1994: WKBQ-FM and country-formatted sister station WKKX swapped frequencies, with WKKX moving to 106.5 FM.
- Rebranded as "New Country Kix 106.5," with "Steve & DC" returning to the 106.5 MHz frequency and achieving significant ratings success.
- November 1996: Emmis Broadcasting acquired the station.
2000–2005: WSSM (Smooth Jazz)
- 2000: Emmis swapped WKKX to Bonneville International.
- October 4, 2000: WKKX changed call letters to WSSM and adopted a Smooth Jazz format, branded as "Smooth 106.5" (later "106.5 Smooth Jazz").
2005–Present: WARH (Adult Hits)
- April 10, 2005: Adopted its current adult hits format, branded as "106-5 The Arch." The inaugural song was "Roll With the Changes" by REO Speedwagon.
- April 18, 2005: Adopted its current WARH call letters.
- Initially programmed by Jules Riley; Marty Linck became Program Director in 2019, also serving as PD for sister station KSHE.
2011: Ownership Transition to Hubbard Broadcasting
- January 19, 2011: Bonneville announced the sale of WARH and 16 other stations to Minneapolis-based Hubbard Broadcasting.
- April 29, 2011: The sale was officially completed, marking a new chapter in WARH's ownership.

Evolution of Formats

A Dynamic Programming History

WARH's frequency has hosted a diverse array of radio formats, reflecting shifts in popular music and listener demographics over the decades. From its origins in country music to its current adult hits presentation, the station has consistently adapted its programming to remain relevant in the competitive St. Louis radio market.

Format Transitions Table

The following table summarizes the primary radio formats adopted by the 106.5 MHz frequency throughout its operational history, alongside the corresponding call signs and approximate periods.

Period	Call Sign	Format	Branding Notes
1965–1977	WGNU-FM	Country Music	Simulcast with WGNU (AM)
1977–1986	WWWK / KWK-FM	Album Oriented Rock (AOR)	"Stereo WK"
1986–1993	KWK-FM / WKBQ-FM	Top 40 / CHR	"Q106.5"
1993–2000	WKKX	Country Music	"New Country Kix 106.5"
2000–2005	WSSM	Smooth Jazz	"Smooth 106.5" / "106.5 Smooth Jazz"
2005–Present	WARH	Adult Hits	"106-5 The Arch"

Ownership & Management

Hubbard Broadcasting

WARH is currently owned by Hubbard Broadcasting, specifically through its subsidiary, St. Louis FCC License Sub, LLC. Hubbard Broadcasting is a Minneapolis-based media conglomerate with a significant portfolio of radio and television stations across various markets. This ownership structure provides WARH with robust corporate backing and resources.

Sister Stations

As part of the Hubbard Broadcasting family in St. Louis, WARH operates alongside several sister stations, fostering a collaborative environment within the local market. These include:

KPNT
KSHE
WIL-FM
WXOS

This group of stations collectively serves diverse listener interests across the St. Louis metropolitan area.

Leadership & Programming

The station's programming direction is overseen by Marty Linck, who has served as the Program Director for WARH since 2019. Notably, Mr. Linck also holds the position of Program Director for WARH's sister station, KSHE, indicating a unified strategic vision across these key Hubbard Broadcasting properties in St. Louis.

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References

Broadcasting Yearbook 1969 page B-54

Broadcasting Yearbook 1982 page C-141

Jerry Berger, "To Play Is The Thing: Antique Toys On Way", The St. Louis Post-Dispatch, March 1, 1988.

American Radio History

Linda Eardley and Jerry Berger, "Fired DJs To Go Back On Air Here", The St. Louis Post-Dispatch, January 4, 1994.

Diane Toroian, "Ownership changes lead to a reworking of the radio dial here", The St. Louis Post-Dispatch, October 5, 2000.

American Radio History

World Radio History

American Radio History

A full list of references for this article are available at the WARH Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not official broadcast information. The details provided on this website regarding WARH (106.5 FM) and its operations are for general knowledge and historical context. For official licensing, technical specifications, or regulatory information, please refer directly to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) public files and WARH's official website. Never disregard official documentation or professional advice based on information presented here.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

WARH: The Sonic Evolution of St. Louis Radio

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Station Overview ℹ️

📍 Geographic Footprint

🎶 "106.5 The Arch" Identity

🎙️ Live & Local Distinction

Broadcast & Technical 📡

📻 Frequency & Signal

🏢 Operational Hubs

🎛️ HD Radio Subchannels

Historical Trajectory 📜

🕰️ A Legacy of Evolution

Key Eras and Call Signs:

Evolution of Formats 🎵

🔄 A Dynamic Programming History

📊 Format Transitions Table

Ownership & Management 🏢

🤝 Hubbard Broadcasting

🔗 Sister Stations

👨‍💼 Leadership & Programming

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Station Overview

Geographic Footprint

"106.5 The Arch" Identity

Live & Local Distinction

Broadcast & Technical

Frequency & Signal

Operational Hubs

HD Radio Subchannels

Historical Trajectory

A Legacy of Evolution

Evolution of Formats

A Dynamic Programming History

Format Transitions Table

Ownership & Management

Hubbard Broadcasting

Sister Stations

Leadership & Programming

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice