WNOV facts for kids
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| Frequency | 860 kHz |
|---|---|
| Branding | 106.5 & 860 WNOV |
| Programming | |
| Format | Urban/Talk/Community |
| Ownership | |
| Owner |
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| History | |
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First air date
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August 15, 1946 (as WFOX) |
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Former call signs
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WFOX (1946-1967) |
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Call sign meaning
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Voice Of the Nation in reverse (former sister station to Chicago's WVON) Wisconsin Negroes Own Voice |
| Technical information | |
| Facility ID | 36069 |
| Class | D |
| Power | 250 watts day 5 watts night |
| Translator(s) | 106.5 W293CX (Milwaukee) |
| Links | |
| Webcast | Listen Live |
| Website | wnovmusic.com or wnov860.com |
WNOV ("860 AM") is a community-focused urban contemporary radio station. It is located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. WNOV is the only station owned by Courier Communications.
In 2008, a company called Radio Multi-Media started managing the station. Later, in January 2012, both the AM and FM translator signals stopped broadcasting. WNOV returned to the air in May 2012. It began broadcasting an urban contemporary music format again.
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Station History
WNOV first started broadcasting in 1946. Back then, it was known as WFOX. At one point, it even played country music.
Becoming WNOV
In 1967, the station changed its name to WNOV. It then started focusing its programs on the local African-American community. WNOV aired many different types of programs. These included rhythm and blues music, gospel music, and hip-hop. It also had shows about community topics.
In the past, WNOV was known for its local talk show hosts. One well-known host was Michael McGee, Sr., a former Milwaukee alderman. In 2008, WNOV changed its music style to urban adult contemporary. However, it soon went back to a broader urban contemporary style. This helped it better compete with other stations like WKKV.
Adding FM Translators
In December 2009, WNOV added a small FM translator at 102.5. This allowed the station to broadcast its urban adult contemporary shows on FM too. This translator was called "Majic 102.5" on the air. In 2011, the FM broadcast changed to mainstream urban music.
In 2010, WNOV asked the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) to move its FM signal to 93.9. They also wanted to move its main city of license to Milwaukee. This was to help with interference from another station, WNWC, in Madison. WNOV also changed its slogan to "102.5 The Beat."
Going Off Air and Returning
On January 24, 2012, WNOV and its FM translator both stopped broadcasting. The station's owner, Courier Communications, said they had problems with Radio Multi-Media. This led to some equipment being removed.
Courier Communications planned to bring WNOV back on the air. In May 2012, WNOV did start broadcasting again. In the summer of 2012, WNOV returned without the FM translator. It had a new name, "The New WNOV," and played an urban contemporary format. By fall 2013, the station was rebranded as "860 WNOV, The Voice."
In March 2017, WNOV brought back an FM translator at 106.5 FM. This new translator, W293CX, helps the station's signal reach the main part of Milwaukee.
Past On-Air Personalities
Many famous radio personalities have worked at WNOV over the years. Some of these legends include Bobby O'Jay, Jim Frazier, Michael Hightower, Earl Stokes, Ernie G, and Larry K. Myles.
Other talented people who worked at WNOV include Maestro and Steve Hegwood. Jerry Smokin' B, Kevin Stone, and "The Real Deal" Mike Neil also worked there. Reggie Brown, Rockman Jr, Homer Blow, Rob Hardy, Tony Neal, and Brother Eugene Matthews were also part of the "Incredible AM" 860 team.
In the past, WNOV aired popular syndicated shows. These included "The Rickey Smiley Morning Show" and "The Lady Pink Show." They also broadcast the Michael Baisden show. These shows were later removed from the lineup.
Weekend programs included "Old School Reunion with Wayne the Magic Man" and "The Weekend Rollcall" with DJ Mike Mill on Saturdays. Sundays featured "Praise Mixdown" and "New Pitts Gospel Hour" with Michelle Pitts.
