As we reflect on the recent years in the radio industry, one event that stands out is the historic unification of three iconic New York radio stations. WQHT HOT 97 FM, New York’s #1 station for Hip Hop and R&B, along with its sister stations WBLS 107.5 FM and wlib 1190 AM, leading sources for R&B, gospel and inspiration in New York, joined forces under one umbrella. This monumental merger took place back in 2014, when parent company Emmis Communications acquired WBLS and wlib from YMF Media. A ceremony was held at The nasdaq Stock Market to commemorate this significant event in radio history, with on-air personalities and company executives in attendance. This post looks back at this memorable moment, marking a turning point in the radio industry.
Emmis Communications Acquires WBLS and WLIB
On April 16, 2014, a grand ceremony was held at The nasdaq Stock Market to celebrate the recent union of WQHT, WBLS, and WLIB. This unification came after Emmis Communications announced in February of the same year that it would acquire WBLS and wlib from YMF Media.
Celebrating the Union at NASDAQ
The closing bell ceremony at NASDAQ was attended by on-air personalities from all three stations, including Funk Flex and Angie Martinez from WQHT, Lenny Green, Dr. Bob Lee, and Earthquake from WBLS, and Bishop Hezekiah Walker from wlib. Together with company executives and invited guests, they witnessed Emmis CEO, Jeff Smuylan, ring the closing bell at the nasdaq MarketSite in Times Square, New York City.
A Historic Moment for Radio
This event marked an exciting chapter for everyone involved. As Jeff Smuylan, CEO of Emmis Communications, stated, “As the WBLS and wlib staffs join the Emmis family, we’re very excited to celebrate by ringing the closing bell at NASDAQ.” Deon Levingston, General Manager of Emmis NY, echoed these sentiments, adding, “This has been a thrilling time for all of us at WQHT, WBLS, and WLIB, and what better way to remember it than ringing the closing bell at The nasdaq Stock Market!”
Fans of the stations were invited to watch a webcast of the nasdaq Closing Bell ceremony, which began promptly at 3:45 p.m. EST, with remarks from nasdaq and Mr. Smuylan, followed by the ringing of the closing bell at 4:00 p.m. EST.
Reflecting back on this momentous occasion not only reminds us of the dynamic changes within the radio industry but also the power of unity in shaping its future.
#RadioBroadcasting #MusicIndustry #EmmisCommunications #NASDAQ #RadioHistory
