Adding Rap/Hip Hop to Main Rotation of WLJS

Background  WLJS is the student run campus radio station.  WLJS was first charted on September,  WLJS’ main format is College/Alternative  Night shift DJ’s have more liberties regarding format

Problem  There isn’t a station in the Calhoun County area that has a Rap/Hip Hop format.  95.5 The Big Country, over powers the distance signal of 95.7 jams which is based in Birmingham, AL

Goal The goal is not to change the current format of WLJS but, give the Rap/Hip Hop format more presence in the regular weekday rotation hours for those who are not listening during specialty show hours.

Objectives The objective is to add more Rap/Hip Hop music to the weekday rotation for fans of the format who aren’t being served.

Audience The audience is listeners in Calhoun County. WLJS is Jacksonville State’s campus radio station but, it signal carries to Gadsden, AL and to Oxford, AL. Listeners will most likely be people who do not own Satellite Radio, listen to radio while working i.e., delivery truck drivers or anyone who incorporates FM radio into their daily routine.

WLJS Coverage Map

Strategies & Tactics  Request current music from record labels’ promotional departments.  Request College Music Journal send discs within format.  Edit music that is found through other means. (Internet, Personal Collections.  Make sure selected music is FCC compliant.

Strategies & Tactics Cont’d  Review selected songs with Music Director.  Add music to regular rotation.

Calendar January 2009 Meet with Music Director to discuss approaches to reach goal. Mid January 2009 Inform CMJ we wish to receive material in the desired format. Request material from promotional departments. February 2009 Review material and edit out any undesirable content if needed. Mid February 2009 Review material for selection. March 2009 Add new selections to regular rotation. April 2009 Survey audience.

Budget  There is virtually no budget needed for this project.  All communication to request materials can be handled electronically.  All edits of music can be electronically stored on the radio stations computer.  All work can be done by volunteers and radio staff.

Evaluation  Regular visitors of 92J’s website can be polled for feedback.  A poll can also be added to WLJS’ Myspace page and messaging can allow for more detailed feedback.  A field survey can be use for those who do not have access to, or regularly use the internet.