Starting April 1st, the low power radio station WDIF 97.5 FM has changed formats to become the only station in Ohio to broadcast blues music 24/7. The station is also looking for Ohio-based blues artists to feature their music in the regular blues rotation.
Station manager Spencer Phelps said he began the change when he noticed a vacuum of resources for good blues music in Ohio.
“I remember when the last big blues station, WBBY in Columbus, was going off the air,” said Phelps. “My dad was such a fan of the blues that he would tape the radio in its final weeks. That dedication inspired me to start this movement here in Marion.”
On top of playing classic blues songs, WDIF is also turning its focus local by seeking out and featuring local and Ohio-based blues artists. The station will give local music special introductions and higher play rotations.
But the influence of the blues doesn’t just stop with the radio station.
“My ultimate goal is to make Marion the blues capital of Ohio,” said Phelps. “Once we get settled in, I want to put together an annual blues festival, have a blues concert series, and even encourage young people in the public school music programs to pursue the blues.”
WDIF-LP is being provided through a Federal Communications license granted to the US Open Commission, a 501C3 organization. The station broadcasts at 97.5 FM, and covers Marion County.
For more information, contact Spencer Phelps via e-mail at [email protected] or visit their website at www.975wdif.com.
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