Station Spotlight: UTA Radio

Last Updated on November 14, 2013 by askcbiorg

Tell me a little history about your station and where your station is now?
We started online in 2001 (before Pandora) and went 24/7 in 2006. Technology has enabled us to expand our reach globally, as well as our visibility. We launched our own app last year, and remain a part of iHeart Radio.

What sets your station apart from other college radio stations?
We’re set apart because we’re online only, but in many ways it makes it easier to do the things we want to do. We’re not bogged down by FCC regulations. In terms of our music, we play a lot of local (Dallas-Fort Worth) artists and international artists who barely (if they’re lucky) get airtime elsewhere.

Why did you choose radio?
Students choose radio for the music, but many also want careers in sports broadcasting. We allow students to do play-by-play and color for a mid-major basketball and baseball program. It’s invaluable experience.

What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done for your station?
Craziest thing we’ve done? Cover Super Bowl XLV during a freak ice storm.

What’s the best part of college radio? And the hardest part?
The best thing about this is that UTA Radio serves as a training ground for future broadcasters. They learn how to be on the air, how to conduct interviews, and they learn to love radio. The hardest part is letting them go when graduation comes around, and having to start over with a new group of kids.