Chicago sports talk radio station 670 The Score (WSCR-AM) will soon be available on the FM dial. Starting February 2, the station will simulcast its programming on 104.3 FM, a move that significantly broadens its reach across the city. This expansion will allow more fans to access live sports coverage and popular talk shows.
Key Takeaways
- 670 The Score will begin simulcasting on 104.3 FM on February 2.
- This marks the first time The Score's lineup will be on FM in Chicago.
- The change replaces the Rhythmic Throwbacks station 104.3 Jams.
- Cubs and Bulls game coverage will be available on both AM and FM.
- Circa Sports Illinois is the presenting partner for the FM simulcast.
New Era for Chicago Sports Radio
The transition to FM represents a notable shift in Chicago's radio landscape. For years, 670 The Score has been a staple for sports enthusiasts on the AM band. Now, its programming, including play-by-play coverage of the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bulls, will be simultaneously broadcast on 104.3 FM.
This expansion aims to cater to a wider audience, including those who prefer the clarity and accessibility of FM radio. The change is expected to enhance the listening experience for many fans.
Fast Fact
The 104.3 FM frequency was previously home to 104.3 Jams (WBMX), a station known for its Rhythmic Throwbacks programming. Some elements of WBMX's former programming will transition to B96 (WBBM-FM).
Enhanced Access for Local Sports Fans
Fans of Chicago's major league teams will benefit directly from this move. Both Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bulls games, which are broadcast by 670 The Score, will now be accessible on both 670 AM and 104.3 FM. This dual availability ensures that listeners have more options to tune into their favorite teams.
The simulcast also comes with a significant partnership. Circa Sports Illinois, a mobile sportsbook, has been named the presenting partner for the 104.3 FM broadcast. This collaboration highlights the growing integration of sports media and the betting industry.
"Chicago fans are the best in the world, and they deserve coverage that matches their passion. Our roster features the best talent in the city with unmatched dedication to delivering the latest sports news and insight," said Kevin Cassidy, senior vice president and market manager of Audacy Chicago. "We’re excited to expand The Score’s reach through this FM simulcast, bringing our premier sports content to an even wider audience so they can join the conversation and stay connected to their favorite Chicago teams."
The New On-Air Lineup
The launch of 104.3 The Score on February 2 will feature a familiar and popular lineup of hosts. Listeners can expect to hear their favorite sports personalities throughout the day, delivering analyses, interviews, and discussions on local and national sports topics.
- 5:30-10:00 a.m.: "Mully & Haugh" will kick off the morning, offering early insights and commentary.
- 10 a.m.-2 p.m.: "Rahimi, Harris & Grote" will take over, continuing the midday sports conversation.
- 2-6 p.m.: "Spiegel & Holmes" will round out the afternoon drive, providing analysis and listener interaction.
This consistent schedule ensures that fans can follow their preferred shows seamlessly on the new FM frequency.
Background on Audacy
Audacy, the radio network behind 670 The Score, is a major player in the audio content industry. The company operates numerous radio stations across the United States and offers a wide range of digital audio content through its app and website. This move to expand The Score's reach aligns with Audacy's strategy to deliver premier content to a broader audience.
Accessibility Beyond the Airwaves
While the FM simulcast is a significant development, 670 The Score's content remains widely accessible through digital platforms. Listeners outside of Chicago or those who prefer streaming can continue to tune in via the Audacy app and its official website. This multi-platform approach ensures that the station's dedicated fanbase can access its programming from virtually anywhere.
The integration of digital and traditional broadcast methods reflects the evolving media consumption habits of today's audience. By offering both AM, FM, and online streaming, The Score is positioned to serve a diverse listener base.
The expansion is a strategic move to solidify 670 The Score's position as a leading voice in Chicago sports media. It underscores the station's commitment to delivering high-quality sports content to as many fans as possible.
Impact on Listeners and Advertisers
The shift to FM is likely to have a positive impact on both listeners and advertisers. For listeners, it means improved sound quality and easier tuning, especially in areas where AM signals might be less clear. For advertisers, the expanded reach offers a larger potential audience, which could translate into increased revenue opportunities for the station.
Local businesses and national brands looking to connect with Chicago sports fans will find a more robust platform through the combined AM/FM presence. This dual-frequency strategy enhances the value proposition for marketing partners.
The move also signifies Audacy's confidence in the enduring popularity of live sports talk and game broadcasts. Investing in an FM simulcast demonstrates a long-term commitment to the Chicago market and its passionate sports community.