WBMT, Masco’s radio station, has called itself the Northshore’s “best rock,” but recently they’ve been branching out and adding shifts or groups for DJs with different tastes.
“In recent years, we’ve seen an uptick in people who enjoy listening to electronic music, jazz, hip hop, rap, R&B,” said WBMT advisor Matthew Chadwick, “and we really want to find a way to make our station more inclusive to the people who listen to those genres outside of what’s
traditionally considered rock music.”
Shifts are carefully plotted at the beginning of the year to ensure people with different preferences are on every day, so there’s always a fresh set to be heard. And each shift is fitted to be full of people who share the same tastes in music.
“We try to decide shifts based on music taste,” said Communications Director senior Megan Brady.“Let’s say if you’re into new wave music, we’ll group you with people who have a similar interest. Every shift has a unique personality and is the best part about the club.”
If a specific day for the radio is appealing then you don’t have to worry about it changing. Shows stay the same year-round so you’ll get the same great music on those days of the week.
“The shifts stay the same, but we are flexible if things need to change,” said station manager senior? Maya Schildkraut. “If you can’t attend a shift, we just ask that they let us know and we will accommodate everyone.”
Music is growing every day, so the leadership team decided that a
radio station that limits itself to rock might be a disservice.
“I think it’s good that the station is changing and adapting to current listeners,” said Chadwick, “and I have a feeling that there have always been people like that, you know, with those music tastes throughout the station’s history. So I’m glad that we’re now making an effort to change the face of the station in that sense.”
It’s really a community at the station so no matter who goes where, it’s basically guaranteed that it’s a good match.
“We have a really close-knit group this year, which has made every shift that much more enjoyable,” said Schildkraut.
Tuning into WBMT is a great opportunity to put aside personal preferences and really discover something new.
“Each [show] is a little different. So when you tune in on Monday, you’re going to hear something completely different from when you tune in on Wednesday or Thursday. So what I would say to listeners is to really get a taste of what the station has to offer. Try listening to every single day of the week and see what fits your music tastes best, and even if you’re listening to something that you might not necessarily know, it’s always a chance to discover something new as well,” said Chadwick.