Following the “worst-to-first” success of New York’s “103.5 The New ‘KTU” in 1996, a number of stations around the U.S. attempted similar formats (essentially Rhythmic AC) in their markets. One was “93-1 The New DRQ” in Detroit, as demonstrated on this aircheck. Features the “All Request Lunch Blocks”, hosted by longtime Detroit personality Jay Towers. This was a fun station to listen to, highlighted by an all-around high-energy presentation. More information can be found on the WDRQ Wikipedia page. You also may wish to check out the other DRQ aircheck posted here.
Recorded during the final week of January 1998, this is a sample of Q102, recorded on two different days, during two different segments of programming: Lunchtime mixshow programming (70’s/80’s classic dance) (first half of aircheck) Regular programming (second half of aircheck) The station’s regular format was in its final days of being Dance-leaning Mainstream CHR. The station moved into a more conventional Mainstream Top 40 direction as 1998 progressed. At this time, in my opinion, the station offered outstanding production values – much improved over what was heard about a year earlier. During the second half of the aircheck, the on-air personality (Bartel) mentions the upcoming “98 CAU FM Reunion Weekend“, which would be taking place the upcoming weekend.