Who Is V-103 (WVEE-FM) – Atlanta

The heartbeat of Atlanta radio is captured by the essence of V-103. This urban radio station connects deeply with Atlanta’s spirit and sets trends for generations. Originating as WAGA-FM¹ on July 1, 1948, it boldly entered the scene. Transforming into “Atlanta’s Alternative High” and later evolving into an urban contemporary leader, V-103 has been a witness and shaper of Atlanta’s cultural narrative¹.

Today, V-103 is more than an Atlanta radio mainstay; it’s a testament to urban culture, highlighting the finest in hip-hop, R&B, and soul. With Audacy, Inc. at the helm, this WVEE-FM powerhouse serves the community, achieving top ratings and winning the Marconi Award for “Urban Station of the Year” multiple times¹. The station stands strong amidst industry shifts, constantly adapting and forging a real connection with its dedicated Metro Atlanta listeners².

V-103: Atlanta’s Premier Urban Radio Station

In October 1976, V-103 carved its niche in the urban radio landscape, becoming an integral part of Atlanta’s soul. Alongside giants like WSB, it reigns supreme, bringing sounds and community efforts to life¹. The station’s journey reflects Atlanta’s own evolution, diverse and vibrant, with its morning show capturing the city’s heartbeat through beloved hosts like Frank Ski, Wanda Smith, and Big Tigger¹.

Big Tigger has left a lasting impact as the morning slot leader, waving the V-103 banner proudly from radio to Atlanta Hawks games³. The shift to exclusively hip-hop music in 2000 was a deliberate move to resonate with its changing audience, embodying the station’s commitment and vision¹.

Key Takeaways

• V-103 began broadcasting in 1948 and swiftly evolved into Atlanta’s premier urban radio station¹.
• The station has witnessed significant transformations in format and brand, aligning its content with Atlanta’s urban community¹.
• Award-winning programming and community involvement have kept V-103 at the top of Atlanta’s radio market¹.
• Big Tigger’s current role at V-103 maintains a legacy of influential morning show hosts that resonate with listeners³.
• V-103’s transition to full-time hip-hop tapped into Atlanta’s shifting demographics and culture¹.
• The station’s adaptability and connectivity have enabled it to thrive despite industry changes, like the rise of podcasts and streaming platforms².

V-103: Atlanta’s Premier Urban Radio Station

V-103 shines with its urban contemporary radio. It’s the heart of hip-hop music and R&B music in Atlanta. The station plays a huge role in celebrating urban culture. It brings people together, crossing age boundaries.

The station mixes new hits with timeless classics. This perfect mix makes V-103 the top pick for urban music fans. Nielsen Audio shows V-103 as a leader in Atlanta’s urban scene⁴.

“V-103 doesn’t just play music; it’s a cultural institution that echoes the soul of Atlanta.”

V-103 also offers HD Radio. It features subchannels like V-103 International (WVEE-HD2). Listen to afro beats, dancehall, and reggae there. ‘The International Show’ on Saturdays is a hit among global listeners⁴.

Beyond the music, V-103 supports Atlanta’s new talents. It helps them reach listeners everywhere. With platforms like RADIO.COM, their voices go far and wide⁴.

• State-of-the-art HD Radio technology
• Local and international music programming
• Strong community engagement and support for local talent

It’s easy to see why V-103 is atop in Atlanta. It offers great music and supports its community.

For the freshest updates, like the debut of The Morning Culture, check out their site. Stay connected to Atlanta’s urban beats with V-103.

The Evolution of V-103 in Atlanta’s Radio Landscape

V-103’s journey began as WAGA-FM. It shows the significant changes in Atlanta’s radio scene. These changes mirror the shifts in how we consume media and culture in the U.S.

The Origin Timeline from WAGA-FM to V-103

In 1948, WAGA-FM was born under Storer Broadcasting, sticking to country music like its AM sister. Then things changed in 1959 when Plough Broadcasting took over. They renamed the station to WPLO and later WPLO-FM, sticking with country music until the late 1960s. That’s when the game changed because of a new rule from the Federal Communications Commission.

At this point, Georgia State University stepped in. It introduced programming filled with psychedelic music, thanks to its students. This change reshaped how people saw FM radio.

The Psychedelic Era: Georgia State University’s Influence

Georgia State University’s role in WPLO-FM’s programming brought new sounds to the airwaves. The psychedelic tunes and cultural themes got the young folks’ attention. It also prepared the station to switch to an urban contemporary format later on.

Transition to an Urban Giant: The Making of V-103

In the 1970s, the station was all about country music. But by 1976, Schering-Plough transformed it into WVEE, or “V-103.” This move aimed at Atlanta’s African-American middle class, switching to urban contemporary music. It was a smart response to the community’s changing tastes and urban culture’s growing impact on music.

This change reflected a bigger trend. Stations had to adapt to their listeners’ preferences and demographic shifts to stay relevant and competitive.

V-103’s story shows how radio broadcasting in Atlanta has evolved. The station has succeeded by changing its strategy to stay on top in a fast-changing media world. It also draws in fans with its online content. Currently, V-103 attracts about 36,319 online listeners⁵.

Find out more about radio’s changing trends and new influences in broadcasting at this detailed analysis.

Programming Excellence: Music and Shows That Defined V-103

V-103 has deeply touched Atlanta with its music and shows. It brings R&B, hip-hop, and soul to the local community. As a cultural hub, it unites diverse listeners in Atlanta.

V-103’s Musical DNA: Hip-Hop, R&B, and Soul

Atlanta thrives on R&B and hip-hop. V-103 plays a big role in making these genres popular. It creates playlists and shows that match what listeners like. This includes classic hits and fresh tracks by local talents. So, V-103 stays a top choice for music lovers, attracting a wide audience.

The Morning Show Legacy: From Mike Roberts to Big Tigger

V-103’s morning and late-night shows are highlights for many in Atlanta. The morning show went from Mike Roberts to Big Tigger. It’s become a favorite, creating a strong community vibe. These shows offer more than music—they talk about local events. This makes V-103 more than a radio station; it’s a community player.

Community Connection: V-103’s Commitment to Atlanta

V-103 is known as “The People’s Station” for good reason. It’s part of the community, working closely with local groups and events. This builds a real connection with listeners. V-103 also focuses on local issues and talents. It truly stands as a community pillar in Atlanta. The station makes every chance to engage with its audience special, from live events to on-air chats with beloved DJs.

“V-103 isn’t just about music; it’s a lifestyle that celebrates Atlanta’s rich cultural tapestry,” says the station. This belief clearly influences its success with listeners.

For insight into who makes V-103 great, look at Joyce Littel. Her shows like “Quiet Storm” and “Love & Relationships”⁶ have left a mark. Her work shows how V-103 mirrors and shapes Atlanta’s culture through the years⁶.

Read about Joyce Littel and her role in Atlanta radio at here.

V-103’s Place in the Metro Atlanta Community

V-103 shines as a cultural beacon in Metro Atlanta, weaving into the local life’s fabric. It supports Atlanta local culture through vibrant community events. Thus, V-103 goes beyond just being a radio station; it is a community champion.

The station has become a key hub for hip-hop and R&B. It does this by highlighting local talent and showcasing Atlanta’s rich music scene. Through compelling programming, V-103 strengthens ties with its audience, offering more than just songs.

• Spearheads major community events, which have become highly anticipated annual gatherings within the local community.
• Boosts the visibility of emerging artists by offering a platform that reaches the wider Atlanta local culture.
• Facilitates concert promotions, contributing significantly to the thriving music scene in Atlanta and reinforcing its cultural fabric.

V-103 doesn’t just play music; it educates and informs, making it a key cultural force. Its dedication to community events has built a strong connection with Atlanta’s people. This bond echoes through the city’s lively streets and vibrant nightlife.

Steve Hegwood is a pivotal figure, showing the power of locally-focused radio in urban areas. His work at Streetz 94.5⁷ highlights the importance of independent stations. They play a big role in shaping local culture, much like V-103’s impact in Atlanta.

As a champion of Atlanta local culture, V-103 proves that radio can unite communities and enrich culture. It’s more than just a station; it’s a pivotal part of the community it serves.

Inside V-103’s Studios: The Personalities and DJs Behind the Mic

The core of V-103’s success comes from its lively mix of personalities and DJs. They offer more than just music; they bring a unique presence that connects with Atlanta’s people. Their warmth and bond with the city have made V-103 a key part of urban radio culture.

In the studio, the vibrant voices of V-103’s talent show their vital role in the station’s fame. They connect with listeners and pick songs that mirror Atlanta’s varied musical tastes. This keeps V-103 as a top choice for Atlanta’s radio listeners.

The role of radio personalities in making the listening experience better is huge. With interactive talks, honest interviews, and reaching out to the community, they win over listeners. This interaction helps keep V-103 a beloved option in the community.

Stars like Frank Ski are vital to Atlanta’s radio world and help the community through social projects. Ski’s appeal and community work, through his radio shows and events, have made V-103 even more valued among Atlanta’s people⁸.

Spotlight on Legendary On-Air Talent

V-103 has hosted many famous voices like Mike Roberts, Frank Ski, Wanda Smith, and Big Tigger. Their lively shows and community efforts have made listeners loyal. This has helped deepen the bond between the station and its audience.

The Role of Radio Personalities in Shaping V-103

V-103 DJs do more than play tunes. They are cultural pioneers and Atlanta’s voice. Their active role in local events and talks on important community issues show radio’s power. Figures like Frank Ski have grown from DJs to community heroes, proving radio’s influence on social good⁸.

Regular training and new broadcasting tech keep V-103’s team leading in radio. Tools like the Neumann TLM 103 microphone offer top sound quality. This shows V-103’s dedication to giving listeners the best audio experiences⁹.

This mix of talented voices and advanced tech keeps V-103 at the top in Atlanta’s urban radio scene. It keeps drawing in new fans while keeping the old ones happy.

To learn about more innovative radio shows, check out the new names at 101.3 KDWB here.

Awards and Accolades: V-103’s Rise to the Top

V-103’s journey to becoming a top urban radio station is filled with awards. This includes several Marconi Award wins. Being named “Urban Station of the Year” multiple times highlights V-103’s quality programming and trendsetting role¹⁰.

Radio legends like Frank Ski have been key to V-103’s success. Frank Ski helped V-103 stay at the top until his 2012 departure¹¹. After he left, V-103 showed its strength by bouncing back¹¹.This recovery proves the team’s ability to connect with listeners in Atlanta.

The awards V-103 has won show its big impact and dedication to community service.

V-103 has kept up its high broadcasting standards, even as media changes. People like Cynthia “CJ” Johnson highlight radio’s role in music promotion. V-103’s knack for showcasing new music and starting conversations is key to its legacy. The awards they’ve won reflect a commitment to great programming and cultural impact.

Source Links

1. Atlanta | WVEE | V103 | Friends of Ga Radio
2. V-103 (WVEE)
3. The Big Tigger Morning Show – Monday-Friday 6AM | V-103
4. Entercom Launches V-103 International in Atlanta | Audacy Inc.
5. V-103 Radio – Listen Live & Stream Online
6. The Quiet Storm with Joyce Littel – Mon-Thu, Sun: 10PM | V-103
7. Did Katt Williams’ explosive episode lead to Wanda Smith’s firing at V-103?
8. Dialed IN Radio: Frank Ski knows and cares about his urban Baltimore audience. His listeners return the favor, following the life of the party to 92-Q.
9. Neumann TLM103 MONO Set – Cardioid Mic With Ea 1 Alu Case (TLM 103-Set)
10. The Atlanta Opera Competition
11. Frank Ski leaving WHUR D.C. radio job after two years