Raleigh Radio: Curtis Launches Bluegrass Format

Curtis Media Group Friday announced the launching of a bluegrass format on WFNL 570 AM /102.3 FM.

The roots of bluegrass run deep in central North Carolina, with many of the  pioneers and legends of bluegrass hailing from the region including Earl Scruggs, Don Reno and Bobby Hicks. Modern masters such as Jim Mills, Terry Baucom and Tony Williamson live in the area and are keeping the music growing.

“Our commitment to bluegrass started when WPTF hired Flatt & Scruggs in 1952,” said Curtis Media Group Executive Vice President Trip Savery. “We are very proud to bring our heritage back to the airwaves.”

WFNL 1023 FM (2.6Kw) 60dBu Coverage

Mayor Nancy McFarlane warmly greeted news of the new station. “This is a welcome addition to Raleigh’s airwaves,” she said. “This is another significant step in Raleigh’s quest to be the international capital of bluegrass.

“It is fitting to launch WFNL as Raleigh welcomes IBMA’s World of Bluegrass 2014,” Mayor McFarlane said.

The International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) moved its World of  Bluegrass, an annual bluegrass music homecoming, consisting of four parts: the IBMA Business Conference, September 30 – October 2; the 25th Annual International Bluegrass Music Awards, 7 p.m., October 2; Wide Open Bluegrass, October 3-4 (which includes both free stages and ticketed performances); and, the Bluegrass Ramble, an innovative series of showcases, taking place September 30 – October 2 in Downtown Raleigh and at the Raleigh Convention Center.