The renowned author Stephen King is set to shut down his three rock 'n' roll-themed radio stations in Bangor, Maine, marking the end of an era in local independent broadcasting.
According to The Associated Press, this closure comes after decades of financial struggles despite significant personal investment.
In 1983, at the age of 36, Stephen King entered the broadcasting world by purchasing his first radio station and rebranding it as WZON, drawing inspiration from his novel The Dead Zone. However, after a brief closure, King reacquired the station in 1990, determined to improve its fortunes. This marked the beginning of his long-standing commitment to independent radio, a rare stance in a field increasingly dominated by large broadcasting groups.
King expanded his portfolio by adding two more stations: WKIT-FM and WZLO-FM. Under the umbrella of ZONE Corporation, these stations thrived for a time, offering a variety of rock and retro-themed content beloved by local listeners. Ken Wood, the general manager, highlighted the significance of these stations in a landscape shifting away from local ownership.
Despite their popularity, the financial realities of running independent radio stations in a competitive digital age began to take a toll. King and his wife, Tabitha, both proud of their involvement, often covered losses to keep the stations operational.
King’s enthusiasm for radio was more than just a business venture; it was a passion project stemming from his days as a rock band performer. He cherished the independence it brought away from corporate giants. "I’ve loved the people who’ve gone to these stations every day and entertained folks, kept the equipment running, and given local advertisers a way to connect with their customers," King said, reflecting his deep appreciation for his team and their efforts.
Despite his best efforts, the continued financial drain led King to make a tough decision. At 77, he decided it was time to cease operations and planned for the stations to go silent on December 31. This decision marks a significant end to local radio's influence on community engagement through music and advertising.
Staff and listeners alike deeply feel this loss. The stations provided a platform for local voices and advertisements, building a community around shared interests and regional pride.
The announcement has brought forth a mix of nostalgia and sadness among those who grew up with King's stations as a staple of local culture. "Independent, locally owned radio stations used to be the norm," lamented Ken Wood. "There are only a few left in Maine, and we’re lucky we had these three as long as we did."
The closure marks not just the end of a business but the fading of a community landmark that had become a part of daily life for many in Bangor and beyond. Staff and listeners now prepare to say goodbye to a beloved institution, closing an influential chapter in Maine’s broadcasting history.
As the final broadcast approaches, farewell programs are in the works to celebrate decades of music, stories, and connections forged through King's stations. The community now faces New Year's Eve with bittersweet anticipation, bidding farewell to a significant piece of its cultural fabric.
The impending silence of WKIT-FM, WZON-AM, and WZLO-FM represents a significant cultural loss while highlighting the challenging dynamics of independent media ownership in a digital era. Stephen King's journey through radio reflects a broader narrative of passion projects struggling against economic realities.
The legacy of these stations, from their rock 'n' roll beats to their support of local businesses and events, will live on as a cherished memory for those who tuned in regularly. As Bangor adjusts to a new sound—or the lack thereof—Stephen King’s mark on the airwaves will remain unforgettable.
