The key in developing The 90s Station lies in picking the songs that stand the test of time from the decade. This was the key with Classic Rock, it became the key with Oldies stations as they evolved, and it will determine the success of the 90s Stations.
Drawing on over 15 years of consulting and group programming roles involving a lot of library music tests and current music research through the 90s here are 5 types of music from the decade worth evaluating:
Drawing on over 15 years of consulting and group programming roles involving a lot of library music tests and current music research through the 90s here are 5 types of music from the decade worth evaluating:
Boy Bands – Teen Pop: This is a lost cause with most of the stars fading quickly into the Britney bandwagon. While some of the stars here have been able to mature into current pop music like Justin Timberlake, their library is largely seen as too young and pop to stand up as this audience approaches 30, 10 years later.
Rap/Rhythmic: While this genre came on strong in the last 3-4 years of the decade it was very trendy and even though there is an old skool world there are very few stand out songs that will test today. Rap is more about current and recurrent trends than its past.
Pop: There was also some pop from divas like Celion Dion, Jenifer Lopez, Christina Aguilera and others but much of the appeal on CHR and Hot AC radio for these artists was often directed at the Moms and keeping 25 plus audience on CHRs in the 90s.
Grunge: The noteworthy music influence of the decade that still dominates the research, sales and 90s airplay from the decade.
Alternative: Another cornerstone genre of the decade with a number of the artists here crossing over to multiple formats and still strong today.
Pop-Alternative: While some of this genre has burnt out with multiple format airplay much of it still tests strong and many of the artists are still doing well.
90s Rock: Including bands like Metallica and the left over 80s rockers like Aerosmith, Tom Petty, U2 and AC/DC a lot of these songs test well enough with the older side of the demo to merit inclusion.
The final mix for The 90s Station is mostly a Rock based world with a wide range of styles which can be fine tuned to the competitive landscape in any market. The mix and audience expectations will lean towards Men, but the mix is 'female friendly' with the accent being on including all the best music from the 4 noted groups. If you would like to see sample log hours or full days email - dlange210@comcast.net or call 574 273 0559.
The attitude and stationality of the 90s Station is not built on the 'all male - babe of the day' style we often see in Active Rock and even some Classic Rockers. The fun and entertainment comes from being topical, having strong community ties, and relating to a strong music mix.
