Classic Country Radio, a mini-conglomerate of three advertiser-supported radio stations in southern Ohio, is celebrating their 20th Anniversary on the air this month.
What started as an old, broken-down facility at WBZI in Xenia has grown under the direction of Joe Mullins into a broadcasting powerhouse playing traditional country and bluegrass music in the Cincinnati and Dayton markets. Joe says that when he took over in July of 1995, there was precious little studio gear in place, no office furniture, and not a single computer to be found.
Mullins, with some early help from his dad, longtime Ohio radio personality Paul “Moon” Mullins, quickly built the station into a profitable business, and has been able to acquire the licenses for WKFI and WEDI as well. They now broadcast on three AM frequencies, and one on FM, plus cybercasting worldwide online. Joe’s dad has since passed, but he has now brought his son Daniel onboard handling both on-air and administrative duties.
For Mullins, this anniversary is a cause for some reflection.
“I am certainly thankful for the opportunity to celebrate two decades of Classic Country Radio. The loyalty from thousands of listeners and hundreds of advertisers has allowed us continual growth. It’s really quite amazing that in a media world that has seen internet radio, satellite radio, iPods and dozens of other innovations since 1995, our regional network is still providing entertainment and information our audience isn’t getting from any other source. It’s quite a testament to our veteran, on-air team and each member of our staff who still realize the rewards of old-fashioned hard work and consistent quality.”
To mark this august occasion, Classic Country Radio is hosting a free music event at the Greene County Fair on Thursday night, featuring performances by Joe Mullins & the Radio Ramblers and Chubby Howard, Wyatt McCubbin, and friends. They will broadcast live from the Fairgrounds from 4:00-6:00 p.m., with live music running from 6:00-9:00.
There is no additional charge above Fair admission to attend the concert.
Congratulations to Joe and the entire Classic Country Radio family for 20 years of successful broadcasting. Here’s to 20 more!
