WADV/WYRK, 106.5 FM | Buffalo Broadcasters Association

Year Inducted:

2012

Category / Categories:

Hall of Fame, Milestone

2012 Milestone

The Buffalo Broadcasters Association is also celebrating a Golden Anniversary.

Buffalo’s first stereo FM station is celebrating its Golden Anniversary this year.  WYRK first went on the air as WADV in 1962.  Original owners Dan and Nancy Lesniak created a truly unique format that defied description.  It was a mixture of jazz, big band music and vocal standards hosted by knowledgeable and genuine personalities, including Pat Vincent, Fred Klestine, Rick Bennett, Jerry Glenn, Bernie Sandler, Jack Horohoe, Ken Ruof and Ralph Irene.

When the station was sold to new owners in 1981, the format was changed to country music WYRK.  It was a bitter disappointment to WADV’s devoted announcers and listeners.  But in hindsight, it was, perhaps, one of the smartest moves ever made in Buffalo broadcasting.  WYRK rose to dominance over the years and consistently ranks at the top of the Arbitron ratings.  Now owned by Townsquare Media, WYRK continues to employ local announcers, including Clay Moden, Dale Mussen and John LaMond, who connect with their listeners through live concerts and other special events.


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