WREK (radio station)

WREK (radio station) is a college radio station owned by the Georgia Institute of Technology, broadcasting at 91.1 MHz in Atlanta, Georgia. The station is known for its diverse programming, featuring a wide range of music genres, including rock music, jazz, hip hop, and electronic music, as well as talk radio shows and sports broadcasting. WREK is a member of the College Radio Foundation and has been recognized by the National Association of Broadcasters and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for its commitment to community service and public broadcasting. The station has also been featured in publications such as The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Creative Loafing (Atlanta), and The Technique.

● History

WREK was established in 1968 by a group of Georgia Tech students, including Richard H. Truly, who later became a NASA astronaut and administrator. The station began broadcasting on a 10-watt transmitter, but has since upgraded to a 100,000-watt signal, allowing it to reach a wider audience in the Atlanta metropolitan area. Over the years, WREK has been influenced by various music festivals, such as Music Midtown and AthFest, and has hosted live performances by notable artists, including The Black Crowes, R.E.M., and OutKast. The station has also been involved in various community outreach programs, including partnerships with the Atlanta Community Food Bank and the United Way of Greater Atlanta. WREK has been recognized for its contributions to the Atlanta music scene by organizations such as the Atlanta Music Project and the Georgia Music Hall of Fame.

● Programming

WREK's programming includes a wide range of shows, from music programming to talk radio and sports broadcasting. The station features shows hosted by Georgia Tech students, as well as community volunteers and local musicians. Some notable shows include "Album 88," a college radio staple that features new and emerging artists, and "The Sports Nerd," a sports talk show that covers Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets athletics and other local sports teams, such as the Atlanta Braves, Atlanta Falcons, and Atlanta Hawks. WREK also broadcasts public affairs programming, including shows focused on social justice, environmental issues, and local politics, featuring guests such as John Lewis, Nancy Pelosi, and Bernie Sanders. The station has also partnered with other college radio stations, including WRAS (album 88) and WUOG, to produce joint programming and events, such as the College Radio Day celebration.

● Technical_info

WREK broadcasts on a 100,000-watt transmitter, allowing it to reach a wide audience in the Atlanta metropolitan area. The station's signal is also streamed online, making it accessible to listeners around the world. WREK uses a combination of analog and digital equipment, including audio consoles and software from companies like Broadcast Electronics and Adobe Systems. The station's studio is located on the Georgia Tech campus, and features a state-of-the-art recording studio and production facilities. WREK has also implemented sustainability initiatives, such as energy-efficient lighting and recycling programs, to reduce its environmental impact. The station has been recognized for its technical excellence by organizations such as the Society of Broadcast Engineers and the National Association of Broadcasters.

● Awards_and_recognition

WREK has received numerous awards and recognition for its programming and community service. The station has been named one of the best college radio stations in the country by publications such as Rolling Stone and The Princeton Review. WREK has also received awards from the National Association of Broadcasters and the College Radio Foundation for its commitment to public broadcasting and community service. The station has been recognized for its contributions to the Atlanta music scene by organizations such as the Atlanta Music Project and the Georgia Music Hall of Fame. WREK has also been featured in publications such as The New York Times, USA Today, and Billboard (magazine), and has been recognized by politicians such as Nathan Deal and Kasim Reed for its community service and public broadcasting efforts.

● Alumni_and_influence

Many WREK alumni have gone on to successful careers in the music industry and broadcasting. Notable alumni include Peter Buck, guitarist for R.E.M., and Mike Mills, bassist for R.E.M.. Other alumni have gone on to work for radio stations and record labels such as CNN, Turner Broadcasting System, and Sony Music Entertainment. WREK has also been an influence on other college radio stations and community radio stations, and has been recognized as a model for community-based public broadcasting. The station has also been involved in various music festivals and concerts, including Music Midtown and AthFest, and has hosted live performances by notable artists, including The Black Crowes, OutKast, and Ludacris. WREK has been recognized for its contributions to the Atlanta music scene by organizations such as the Atlanta Music Project and the Georgia Music Hall of Fame. Category:College radio stations in the United States