An open letter to WBOS…oops I mean Radio 92.9
February 2, 2008
Dear Dana,
Thanks for asking my opinion about the new Radio 92.9 station format. I’m posting it here since what I have to say doesn’t fit in your 1000 character limit. Here it is…I’m kinda upset about the change. I liked what you had been doing lately and I’m sorry to see it go. I actually thought the station had improved quite a bit over the last few years. I’m not impressed with this new format and it’s unlikely that I will continue to listen. However, it’s only been a few hours…I reserve the right to change my mind and will let you know if I do.
Frankly, I would have been in favor of a slightly harder rock sound, but I think you’ve gone too far with this change. Although I like some of the songs you are playing, the station is starting to give me a headache.
Personally, I have nowhere to go on the radio at this point since The River doesn’t really come in well at my house. WZLX is fun for us old fogeys, but (although it might be surprising to an industry that only seems to want to cater to a younger audience) even those of us in our 40s (and beyond) want to be current. The other stations are for kids, or are too hard, too poppy or just plain annoying.
I’m getting used to WBOS pulling these types of stunts. It feels like you’re constantly searching for the “right” format — the one that’s going to catapult you to the top of the ratings charts. Didn’t you guys try something like this a few years ago? Since you’re always tweaking, I’ll anticipate more changes and refinements in the future. Maybe you’ll even go back to the old format. That’s happened before.
Frankly, I liked the WBOS DJs – they were not obnoxious like the ones on other stations. They didn’t talk a lot, and when they did talk, they added value. When listening to the radio, I’m not just interested in listening to music but also like to learn a few new things about the artists, who’s playing around town, etc.
What concerns me more is the total lack of customer-orientation in your approach to making the change. I’d also question the messaging strategy. Oh, and what happened to your website? Not sure why WBOS can’t figure out customer relationship marketing. Feel free to contact me if you want more info on that.
Also, please don’t ask me for my exact birthday on your feedback forms. It’s annoying and only forces me to lie.
Ok, so now that I’ve got that off my chest, I’m turning off your radio station so I can listen to KT Tunstall on my iPod. Maybe I’ll check you out tomorrow.
Thanks for listening.
February 2, 2008 at 5:08 pm
I’m so dissappointed in the new format. Like you, I can’t go to The RIver, because the station does not come in well at my house. I refuse to listen to 98.5 or Kiss 108 – I can’t stand the jocks there. I was wondering what was going on – I’m a VIP, and I didn’t get the memo – so I was all ticked today, wondering ‘why is BOS playing this crap?’ I’m going to have to be solely an ipod listener – which is tough, too – where can I get my new (good) music from unless I listen to itunes for hours a day (because I have all the time in the world to do that!)
So now I’ve got that off my chest…Here’s hoping WBOS comes back someday.
February 2, 2008 at 5:49 pm
WERS 88.9FM: An excellent alternative to what was WBOS… and commercial free. Check it out. http://www.wers.org
February 2, 2008 at 5:56 pm
Thanks Elizabeth, glad to know I’m not the only one!
Sam, thanks for the reminder about WERS. I agree, it’s a great station.
February 2, 2008 at 8:39 pm
I couldn’t agree more about the horrible decision to change the format of WBOS. The DJ’s were great. Didn’t chatter too much and when they did talk, they spoke intelligently and added value! I’ve tried to give this station a chance but it sounds just like all the other “alternative” stations out there. I am that target audience that they’re trying to capture (graduated high school in 1996) Here’s my opinon: it’s not nostaligic, it’s annoying.
February 2, 2008 at 10:30 pm
THe new format, “classic alternative” disappoints me. I didn’t like 90’s rock that much in the first place (well, lots of the popular stuff.) I’m fortunate to be able to tune in to The River, though, so I can listen to that.
No wonder I stick to loading up my iTunes and iPod and leaving the radio OFF.
February 3, 2008 at 2:09 am
I am SO disappointed with WBOS leaving…without any notice at all. It has been the way I have found new music for years now, and I, too, was wondering why Soundgarden was on my station today. Where will George Knight go??? It really is horrible.
February 3, 2008 at 6:41 am
i agree completely. the change stinks! i turned on the radio saturday morning, and thought that we had it on the wrong station. i always listened to WBOS and now will need to shop around bec i cant put up with this crap. i don’t mind some older stuff, but want new as well. also, with what is with the soft voiced announcer saying “radio 92.9″. it sounds like some easy listening station intro! i hope they get their acts together…please.
February 3, 2008 at 9:33 am
Ouch! I feel like I’ve lost and old friend. . .listener since 1988. Hmmm . . . Sunday Morning over Easy is still here.
February 3, 2008 at 12:48 pm
I totally agree: the new station sucks. I didn’t even realize what happened, I thought they were just having an off night, so I switched over to oldies. Now I find out the off night is every night, and day. Well, I guess radio really is dead. Back to the old media player.
February 3, 2008 at 1:42 pm
Nice to know i’m not alone. I just replied to the survey they had sent to VIP members a couple days ago. My kids tell me that I’m just getting old – I feel like I’m a woman without a country. My two cents to RADIO 92.9-
I’m really not a fan of some of the music you’ve recently started playing. Songs that are regularly played on a station like BCN or AAF, really have not place on BOS. Oh, that’s right, even your name changed…too bad.
I used to call BOS the grown up station. It’s starting to turn into something that I’m not interested in and would more likely listen to pop 40 stuff instead. Or maybe just my own music collection.
I would much rather listen to Dave, Sarah and KT than Papa Roach.
I hope you reign yourself back in soon so that button ONE in my car remains on 92.9.
Thanks for listening.
February 3, 2008 at 3:37 pm
Noticed something wrong with WBOS today, did some digging on the internet, and landed here.
I do’nt like the change. I am a listener of BCN and AAF when I want but listened to BOS as a family station. My wife and I bought several CDs for our kids based on new artists we heard on the show.
Enjoyed the live in studio guests.
Only thing I would have changed was too much “whole foods…” I don’t need to lumped into the Whole foods group – I just like the music. The content was family firendly and the blues stuff was great to have exposure to some of my other tastes.
Gotta hand it to the DJs (or possibly they did not know) because there was no mention that a change was coming.
RIP WBOS – today I am listening to 98.5 but the DJ is wearing on me already!!!
February 4, 2008 at 12:04 am
Like the rest of you, I feel somewhat gutted by this change. I was listening to the station and started hearing an odd array of early nineties alterna-rock and thought maybe they are having some “flashback” weekend. But then it continued like a persistent rash, culminating in the “new” station playing Puddle of Mud, the absolute nadir of “edgy” rock. I don’t know how to react because the original 92.9 sort of was my musical baptism. It helped me break free of top 40 stations when I was in high school and taught me to think openly about bands and musicians that I typically would have dismissed. We are left with less and less choices these days, especially for those of you who like to be surprised by what will be played next on the radio. 92.9, you will be missed.
February 4, 2008 at 7:47 am
Making lemonade: Do you think there’s any possibility that Dana will return to the river? I’ve sensed a downhill shift in WXRV programming since she left.
February 4, 2008 at 8:50 am
What a bummer…I now have to find a new radio station to listen to. I used to listen at work and in the car. I loved the artists played and the DJ’s. It WAS a great station! This new style of music does not fit me, nor is it good to listen to at work. I am very disapointed to lose 92.9. I think I’ll try WERS like Sam suggested or go back to WXPN (a Philadelphia station).
February 4, 2008 at 9:33 am
I agree, I too don’t like this change or the lack of of notice. I too got the VIP email, as I have been a VIP for a long time now. A lot of good that does, because, I would have thought that they would have given us VIP’s an advanced warning. Something like, “We’re going to change the station, and we can guess most of you “old” people won’t like it, but we’re doing it anyway”!
Thanks for making an effort for us loyal listeners.
At least I have my ipod with a lot of the music that I got the idea from BOS.
I really wish we could email the DJ’s that have been let go, as well as George Knight, while he’s still there, and give them our thanks and support. They did such a great job and have been let down by Corporate Greed, once again!
February 4, 2008 at 10:55 am
Such a depressing change (like we need anymore depression after the Super Bowl last night). WBOS was the best radio station I’ve ever listed to. The DJs were mature and interesting, not obnoxious. For the last year or so we’ve been listening to WBOS streaming online since we’re now out of the listening area. We still remember Thanksgiving a few years ago listening to “Unplucked.” We have some great music and great memories from BOS – at least we’ve filled the iPods with all the music we were introduced to via BOS. Now we’re going to be listening to the iPods and XM radio (Flight 26). Bye bye BOS, I won’t be listening anymore. RIP.
February 4, 2008 at 11:58 am
[I already posted a chunk of this on the Herald's page, but had some more thoughts afterward...]
I noticed over the weekend that something was a little bit … different with my WBOS. This AM, Beastie Boys at 7:30 in the morning? Ugh. No thanks. And, ‘BOS mgmt, didn’t we go through this last year and you switched BACK to dj’s? You can bet I’ll follow their on-air talent right to their next gigs. They deserve better than this, for sure. Probably still listen to the Overeasy Sunday AM program, for as long as Knight can stand it. Whatta shame.
And Earthfest will continue? How? Hosted by whom? The non-existent on-air personalities? Like others, I enjoyed the little bit of humanity ‘BOS djs brought without being obnoxious (lookin’ at you, Matty!). I was thrilled when G.Knight came back to mornings. Loved hearing about his little boy, felt like part of a community of other listeners and knowledgeable on-air staff. Screwed the pooch on this one, Greater Media. (“Greater” than what, exactly? hmp.)
February 4, 2008 at 12:28 pm
Not a lot more to say that hasn’t already been said by other dissatisfied customers. I will go from being a loyal listener (even in my office where I was never worried about what might be played next) to not listening at all.
February 4, 2008 at 1:16 pm
I have just returned from a weekend away and learned the disappointing news. BOS was my absolute favorite station. I admit I listen to talk radio in the morning, but the minute Kiss plays a song I switch over to BOS. I love Sunday’s Over Easy and Music on the Mountain. Like many have posted here – I have learned about many new artists here. Where will I go now to find the ecclectic, talented new muscians? Certainly not to Kiss or 98.5… WAAF and others play a lot of the edgy rock from when I was in high school and college – during the 90’s. I wouldn’t mind if BOS simply added a little variety, an occasional grunge song, but to change their entire format is absolutely devestating. I’ll be listening to the River and WUMB going forward.
February 4, 2008 at 1:49 pm
I’m glad to hear that I was not the only who did a double-take upon hearing the Beasties on Saturday! (I do love them, but they they have a time and a place – and it’s not on BOS – yes, I’ll always call it that). At first, I thought this was a programming change for the weekend. By about 1PM Monday, I had to shut off my radio because the “noise” was making me anxious as opposed to being a soothing background while I work. As many people have written, I too, cannot get The River (92.5) at my house. I’d rather have silence right now.
As far as the DJ’s, I always appreciated their knowledge about the artist which added value, not just idle chatter. What’s to come of Blues on Sunday and Holly Harris? This program was such a treasure.
February 5, 2008 at 12:31 am
Like all of you, I was shocked at WBOS’ sudden format change. I’m hurt to see the DJ’s like George Knight go. I loved him the morning. The DJ’s also promoted good up and coming musicians along with events in the Boston Music Scene. I never would have heard of artists like Ryan Shaw, Sara Barellis, Paolo Nutini, John Buter Trio, and Mat Kearney if it wasn’t for 92.9 WBOS. Also some of the live acoustic recordings done in Studio 7 were incredible. I love discovering new music, and WBOS was a great format to do that. To take that outlet away from both music fans and musicians for a “slightly harder” rock sound acts as a not only a slap in the face to us devoted listeners, but to those musicians who want to be heard.
February 5, 2008 at 10:04 am
I too am surprised by this change. I like the old 92.9 and am not sure if I will stay a listener. I will check out some of the other stations that have been suggested.
February 5, 2008 at 10:10 am
I loved 92.9 WBOS. We listen to it everyday at work and I’ll have to change radio stations now since Radio 92.9 doesn’t always play music that is appropriate for the office. I am SO disappointed that WBOS no longer exists! Why didn’t they say anything?
February 5, 2008 at 4:50 pm
The “automatic switch” of format has been happening more often with radio stations lately. But I was so shocked by the WBOS change that I immediately tried to send them an email and when that didn’t work, I resorted to trying to call them. No one answered the phone. It ranks as the worst possible way to handle customers (ie., listeners). I wonder if advertisers were also informed. What I find interesting is that WBOS has adopted the format of Mike FM (93.7) – a “disdain” for the DJ in favor of a more constant stream of music. But the music in WBOS’ case is really pretty awful. It’s loud, simplistic and arrogant overall. I, too, loved the WBOS DJs – they were intelligent, respectful and civil. I’m actually grieving the loss of this radio station. That’s really saying something in this era of media inundation.
February 5, 2008 at 5:49 pm
I feel so lost, like I’ve lost a friend…..I certainly hope Greater Media realizes the huge mistake they’ve made and goes back to the old format. There is no other station as good as BOS was. The DJ’s were so knowledgeable about the great music they played. I too found so many new artists that I never would have heard if I hadn’t heard it on WBOS. Sunday Morning Over Easy is great and will be the only time I’ll be listening, but how much longer until they decide to nix that too?
February 5, 2008 at 6:55 pm
This use to be the best radio station in Boston, excellent DJ’s with lots of knowledge.. Now it’s just a computer playing random songs, My ipod can do that. I guess Mike FM has a new computer buddy now!
I hope the DJ’s find new radio stations that appreciate their knowledge; clearly this station is no longer about the music, just the money!
WERS 88.9FM the only decent station left!
February 5, 2008 at 8:49 pm
Fantastic way to ruin a great radio station!!! You’ve just lost yourself a listener.
February 5, 2008 at 10:58 pm
88.9 WERS. i live outside of boston (495 area) and the reception is great. they play the best music in boston.
February 6, 2008 at 8:40 am
I’m glad I found this site – and the fact that EVERYONE seems to have the same opinion as I do makes me feel alot better ( IT’S NOT JUST ME!). I never found the DJs to be annoying. I liked that the little talking they did pertained to artists & where they were playing locally, what they were doing in the studio, etc.
I do enjoy hearing alot of the songs they’re playing now – I wish they’s incorporate the new format with the old. If it wasn’t for WBOS, I would never have heard of groups like Keane & KT Tunstall. I work in an office where we all have a “cubby” – Beastie Boys & bands that scream the lyrics (I like to call this “Angry Rock”) at 7am just isn’t conducive to the environment I’m in. I have the volume down so low, I can hardly hear the radio at all. I suggested to the station that they play the harder stuff after 3pm – who knows? Maybe they’ll consider it.
I miss the live music they played at noon – it really showed the talent (or lack thereof) of some of the newer bands out there as well as the established ones. Seems kind of stupid that I invested 15 bucks to buy their newest CD of live sessions (oh well – it goes to good cause, right?)
I think I’m going to have to check out some of the other stations that have been suggested here – I’ll listen to the new format in the car – can’t believe the station would be willing to trade 8 hours of listening at work for 1 hour in the car, but that’s what they’re gonna end up with!
February 6, 2008 at 10:16 am
It’s 10am….last 2 songs – HOLE followed by the Beastie Boys – geez – that music sucked when it was new!!!!
Who the Hell are they trying to appeal to? The “younger” adults aren’t listening to this crap (they’ve got their own crap music) and we of the age group that were younger when this stuff was produced would rather FORGET it exists!
Unfortunately I’ve tried a few stations suggested – none are getting good reception. I’ll keep hunting the airwaves! Wish I could do live streaming to my PC, but my workplace doesn’t allow it.
February 6, 2008 at 12:03 pm
Totally shocked at the change of format. Looks like they are going after the 35 and under crowd. The loss of BOS is huge as I felt it had a great niche in the market place. The River is OK but the song selection doesn’t keep you tuned. BOS was good for at the office and with family. It only needed a bit more variety (less U2, Petty, Sting, etc). Big loss for Boston, compounded by our Patriots loss…depression has set in. Anyone know much about about HD radio’s options?
February 6, 2008 at 2:02 pm
I am 24 years old and the new programming does not appeal to me AT ALL. In fact, I feel like Nirvana and U2 were before my time.
I’ll miss the days of discovering NEW music like John Butler Trio and Carbonleaf on WBOS.
They missed the mark entirely – they didn’t go “younger,” they went “older.”
February 6, 2008 at 2:28 pm
Radio stations changing formats is nothing new. Nor is the habit of listeners protesting radical changes. That’s the way it’s been in the Boston radio market for ages.
Unfortunately, with current FCC regs (thanks, gw) the changes are more pronounced. In Boston, there was always a couple radio stations to go to if Dwayne Ingalls Glasscock or Mark Parenteau went overboard in the silliness department. With the advent of owners like ClearChannel, everyone tries to be the same old vanilla.
It’s not working.
When people in Boston start complaining, it’s time for the rest of us no longer living in Boston to listen. And to remind ya alls that some places – like the middle of pennsyltucky where there’s only a couple or so non-country stations – that things could be worse.
At least I know which station to avoid and which newer ones I can tune in to when doing my trips up into New England. It’s tough all over. But keep on keeping on.
Power to the people
Power to the people
Right on.
meow
February 6, 2008 at 6:14 pm
I am a high school senior, and I also used to listen to WBOS over any other station (contrary to the belief that only old people liked it.) When I listened on Monday morning, I knew something was wrong, but I didn’t really pay much attention… I thought it was just a run of a few bad songs in a row. But then it never got better, so I decided to search the internet and found this page.
As strange as it sounds, I agree with an earlier post in that I feel like I’ve lost a friend… one that made me relaxed and introduced me to many of the songs currently on my iPod. I am devastated like everyone else, and hope they change it back.
February 7, 2008 at 11:43 am
Thanks so much for making this website about 92.9 WBOS!!
I personally have never been so disappointed in a radio station! 92.9 was my absolute favorite station, EXACTLY the way it was!
I have been planning on putting together some sort of petition or protest in order to let BOS and Dana Marshall know exactly how I feel!
Would anyone be interested in helping me?
If not, your letter is a great start! Thanks!
February 7, 2008 at 1:45 pm
Aimee, a protest or petition would be great. Thanks for stepping up and saying something. I am personally so turned off that I may never be a listener again. It really depends on what we hear from the station in the next few days/weeks. I’m up for the challenge either way. I will be in touch. Anyone else?
February 7, 2008 at 2:12 pm
I would definitely sign a petition! I’m still in shock & so disappointed with the change. I already miss the old WBOS and all that it had to offer. I have a toddler, so it was also a great station to have playing throughout the day. Now I hear Alice in Chains playing & I have to change the channel. I’m done with this new Radio 92.9, even though I’m supposedly their “new target audience”. I kept hoping that if I listened long enough, I’d hear that this was a joke or temporary thing- like all the DJ’s were out sick or something. I like the River though, so at least we have that & some college radio. I’m just really upset that WBOS basically sold out.
February 7, 2008 at 3:06 pm
I’d sign it!
February 7, 2008 at 8:28 pm
I, myself, finally did a little research on the net to find out why the music changed and the DJs missing. I was hoping perhaps there was a strike or a reason the station was traditionally off the air. I thought maybe there was a death among the staff. No such “luck”. WBOS was the only station I really listed to. I switched off during commercials for a couple minutes at a time, but who doesn’t do that sort of thing. Thank goodness I can still listed to George occasionally but what about Holly and the others? I can’t believe the blues are gone ! My children and I listened every Sunday night and I even won tickets to the Boston Blues Festival. Thanks Holly!
I hope things go back to normal. We don’t need another Mike FM. This new format is so impersonal! And the music that is played now on 92.9, I can hear anywhere, so why should I keep my dial on 92.9 now. I am going to boycott listening to the station except for when the DJs are on and by that I mean the veteran DJs of WBOS not some minimum wage bodies they decide to sit behind the mike. Smarten up 92.9 owners!
February 8, 2008 at 10:56 am
I sent an angry email to their web site this morning. I hate the new change, and I feel sorry for the DJ’s who got canned cuz they are awesome. I’m only 37 but I feel like I’m getting old when this crap happens and I just want to shout “HEY YOU DAMN KIDS GET OFF MY LAWN!”
Buzz Knight needs to be fired for ruining the most beloved radio station in Boston.
February 9, 2008 at 8:44 pm
I agree with all the previous posts, anyone notice that there’s not a SINGLE positive comment? That’s gotta speak volumes. How disappointing- I was thrilled when BOS played new James Blunt before any other station. Carbonleaf, Paulo Nutini, etc. became my favorites. Sunday morning over easy. What great variety, Thursday afternoon with oh,what’s his name from Boston Globe, expert on what’s up and coming. Just enjoyed the format…. Hoping they’ll realise their mistaken ways and change back. Jessie
February 12, 2008 at 10:18 pm
Gosh, I’m disappointed. I’m only 23 but BOS had been a favorite of mine for years. It’s the only station my husband and I could agree on!
I loved hearing new artists and forming my own opinons based on listening to their music. I find it funny that some on this website say that they feel like they’re getting old: BOS exposed us all to brand new, undiscovered artists; Radio 92.9 is re-hashing the music from the early 90’s and thinks it’s appealing to a younger audience? The old format suited my musically interested friends and I so well! It taught us about the classics, and still kept it current. It was a radio station for an intelligent audience. I feel like the new format is for the Class of 1991 High School Reunion Keg Party in Billy Bob’s Backyard.
Oh well. Off to the ipod! (Where it’s so much harder to focus that advertising dollar…your loss!)
February 13, 2008 at 10:44 am
Gotta add my comments, because the more we get, maybe WBOS will listen. I counted on BOS for introducing me to new artists, and my teenage daughter liked to listen with me. BOS – you’ve lost 2 market groups in my household, both the teenagers and the 40 somethings. I changed my clock radio a year ago when they did away with the morning dj. It’s very hard to wake up to pure music, I like having the djs talk a little and the news at a specific time so I know it’s really time to get up now. But I still listened to BOS the rest of the day. Effective last week, I no longer listen, so somebody send me an email if they do change back, because I’ll never know.
February 13, 2008 at 9:07 pm
I was so happy to stumble on this chat about wbos – I have never posted anything before online but I am hoping that there will be a ground swell of support for the old 92.9 to return. It was absolutely my favorite radio station of all time – always on in my car, in my home and on my computer when I traveled. The DJ’s were excellent. Intelligent, knew when to talk and add inisght or info or when to just play the music. And the music they played was wonderful – a real nice mix of some nostaligic older songs as well as introduction to what was new. I loved that. As a 30something high school teacher – it was the perfect station in that it triggered my memories while also allowing me to still stay up on what was happening in music. The new stuff is a drastic change with a continous drone of heavy rock. Not to mention – it is a very male dominated music scene now. Is there any way to find out where George Knight will go? I will miss his “dinner time” conversation.
February 16, 2008 at 10:28 am
i have never posted a comment on any website but in reading all of the other comments, i had to soeak up and agree with every comment made. hopefully this feedback will convice the powers that be to return to WBOS – by the way…i am 25 years old and they have certainly missed the mark on “younger”…
February 20, 2008 at 2:35 pm
As a 25 year old I guess I fit into the grounp the new “Radio” 92.9 is trying to grab hold of. But I do honestly find it completely annoying and have changed the dial preset to 92.5. I’m lucky enough to get that most of the time. If I want rock and alternative I have BCN, AAF, and FNX. There’s not need for another alternative station in Boston. 9.29 was definately my favorite. Sad to see it go.
February 20, 2008 at 8:36 pm
This is a little note I wrote to Radio 929… Last week…
Hello, radio nobody out there. Yes, I am a Springsteen fan. No DJ’s? I don’t get it. I invited your DJ’s into my home and into my car too. They were part of my family. I have been a long time listener and have survived all the other changes and I got to tell you I didn’t like all of them either. Yet all I can see is you just lost a great bunch of people, when you let go of the WBOS DJ’s. George is still on Sunday Morning. Yet, what about the morning drive to work with him and his music knowledge And I’ll miss John with my drive home from work and if I worked late Dominick fit into the 7-midnight shift so nicely. Those 3 guys are now out of my life and I’m sad about it. I enjoyed them and learned from them all. A day you don’t learn something new is a waste of a day. They made sure that their listening audience was satisfied with the whole of the music, not just the music. They gave us appetizer s and dessert too. You guys are cutting up the songs to much right now, lots of overlap before and after the songs. You better get that fixed and soon. Most people like appetizers and dessert. The knowledge they brought to the music station can not be replaced with more music. I’m not a fan of the new format as you can figure out by now. Yet, some of the new music is a nice addition, even though you tell me that I don’t fit into your demographics… I’m 47 years young and a Springsteen fan, you got rid of Springsteen’s music. I don’t understand, he knows how to touch people. Springsteen fans understand music and how it can be almost their Gospel for the moment. And here are a few other examples, Hootie and the Blow Fish talk to people directly and I have not heard anymore of them either. Peter Gabriel has a knack to connect. And lets not forget the Dire Straits. Yes, I’m in dire straits and have been sinc e the weekend and my radio station changed dramatically. Are you just kidding around with us and everything will be back to normal next week. It almost feels that way.
Now, I must thank you for what you did give to me, a very knowledgeable staff, thank you for sharing them with the radio listening world, thank you for a nice assortment of music with a lot of variety and thank you for a reason to not surf the radio stations all the time, except for during long commercials.
I could always depend on WBOS to be there for me. Now I don’t feel that comfort level anymore. Music is a universal language and is something I highly respect. I enjoy all aspects of it… The musician that have the want to reach out and touch you. And most do a good job at relating how they feel about this and that, then there are some musicians that can just pick up a guitar and speak with the notes they hit and not sing or say a solitary word, even the son gs with the swear words in them, that are not covered up very well as they stream the air-waves or who ever makes you do it, does it only for the unimaginative. Thank you for the last decade or more of being there for me.
Not that I am not going to give your new line up a chance, I give everyone chances, yet I have access to XM radio in my car, yet why pay for it if you get what you want and need for free yet I may have to look to them for some of my music support system, if I don’t find a place I can call home for my music. As I think about George signing off or on with Somewhere Over The Rainbow, I feel comfort. And it makes me feel confident that I will find music comfort and a music support system, Somewhere Over The Rainbow, someday. I still don’t get it. Sorry for the long and verbose email. I already miss the guys… Good night.
February 26, 2008 at 6:09 am
I had my car serviced and I was getting so annoyed because I thought they did something funny with my BOS station. I searched and searched and no BOS music, DJ’s, or great music. I miss the radio station and want it back. Radio 92.9/WBOS, please listen – change isn’t alway good – especially such a harsh one!
February 28, 2008 at 10:00 pm
Make certain that you post where George ends up when he gets the ax – he will have a lot of listeners follow him…
February 29, 2008 at 11:11 am
WRAP on WBOS???? Even my 7 year old daughter was upset at the new programming. Complaining won’t change anything for any of us because there aren’t enough of us to make a difference. Anyone have any other stations that parallel the old WBOS, I have not lived here for very long and have been loyal to WBOS for so long……
February 29, 2008 at 11:25 am
Hi Judy, Try The River. 92.5. This is a great station and extremely similar to the old WBOS – perhaps even better since it’s an independent station. I’m loving it despite the fact that the reception isn’t great where I live. But it seems to work well in the car!
March 4, 2008 at 9:53 pm
WHAT IS THE DEAL!!! I’m SO glad that, like everyone else on here, I am not the only one who is upset! I am 24, and the new “fresh” Radio 92.9 is def. not doing anything for me…except making me want to turn it off. Obviously, whoever did their market research (if they did it at all) did a poor job at gathering and analyzing the data. Are they trying to be like Mike FM? Are they morphing into another Kiss 108 (anything but that…please!!!!)
Also their new catch phrase is “Radio 92.9..Because Music Matters To You” ……Weel if it *really* matters…we wouldnt listen anymore ! Or better yet, they wouldnt have changed it ! Like the old saying goes “if it aint broken, dont fix it” …perhaps someone should have followed wisdom.
March 13, 2008 at 8:20 pm
I just got back into the area and noticed something weird was going on with the music on WBOS, and so I just started listening to the river more. But like some of you all have said, it doesn’t come in great in my apt. either and I’ve still been flipping back to 92.9 hoping it would be back to normal. Tonight I figured I’d take a look at the website to see what was going on- what a dissapointment that the weirdness is a deliberate change. I’m 23 and loved the music and the djs on 92.9, the summer concerts in Boston too… It seems that quality is not of importance anymore. TV has gone wayyyy downhill and now the radio as well… I hope the river hangs in there.
When will there be a turn around in the entertainment industry?
WBOS come back!
March 19, 2008 at 2:17 pm
I am absolutely devastated by the change WBOS made. So what if it wasn’t the number one station in the area? I liked it because it wasn’t trying to be. WBOS will lose alot of loyal listeners if it remains with it’s new format. I too liked the DJs – all of them.
This was the station that broke me from Kiss 108, and I would even listen to it streaming over the internet when I was attending college out of state, so I could still have my music fix. My iPod is FULL of new music and artists I heard for the first time on WBOS. My only question is: WHY??? It was perfect exactly the way it is. Please PLEASE PLEASE bring it back!!!!
March 29, 2008 at 10:46 pm
I seem to be in the minority. I did not listen to Bos in the past. My primary station is WGIR in Manchester, but my presets include WFNX, WXRV, WZLX. I don’t care for WAAF or WBCN. My music taste is like the wind and is exremely mood dependent, but whose isn’t? With the exception of the WGIR morning show, I do not like stations with DJs trying to be cool. There is a fine line for me between being genuine and being forced. The toned back DJs in the new format, whether pre-recorded or not, fits my moods better than others. I was scanning the dial and hit Bos by accident and have found myself tuning it in more frequently than the other stations. I am 48, have a house and two kids, and although I certainly like older rock, I like a lot of the newer stuff too. Perhaps since I don’t know what the older format was like, I am missing the point you are all making. Change is good. I wouldn’t be posting this otherwise, but you should stand for what you believe in and make sure your voice is heard. You never know who is making the decisions, or what vaccuum they live in.
March 30, 2008 at 4:42 pm
A certain other station in Boston can be streamed online
works really nice for those of us out of broadcast range of both of them.
April 6, 2008 at 8:17 am
I agree with everyone here in being incredibly disappointed in the abrupt format change of a station that I felt had been a mainstay in the Boston radio scene for so many years. I also thought I had made a mistake when I hit the 92.9 preset in my car, and kept going back trying to figure out what was going on. Very frustrating and confusing. My preset is on 92.5 now and will stay there. Really bad move by what was a great station.
April 6, 2008 at 5:54 pm
Still not liking Radio92.9, but of course, keep hoping that it will change back. I went to their site to see if I can email George Knight, but there’s no where to even email or comment on the station anymore! I don’t want to become a “Radiohead”. I thought maybe I could email George to ask about a certain artist he use to play. If anyone knows of a latin group, who I think are from Ireland, could they email me the name of the artist or song that was played on the good old BOS, I would really appreciate it. I would like to add this artist to my ipod, as I have added a number of artists that George had introduced to many of us. Thanks.
April 6, 2008 at 6:00 pm
Okay, I’m going to try this again, got kicked out. I thought that this would only happen if I tried to email Radio 92.9, but I digress. Anyway, I wanted to email George Knight, but unlike the old site, the new one doesn’t even give an option to comment anymore. I wanted to ask about a certain artist that he use to play on the old BOS. I haven’t heard this artist any more, on Radio 92.9, and don’t expect to either. Does anyone knows of a Latin artist (group) that I believe comes from Ireland? I never got the name, but enjoyed the song that George played. If anyone can email me this artist or their song, I would appreciate it. Thanks.
April 6, 2008 at 6:37 pm
Hi Laurie,
This might be a long shot but it’s the only thing I can think of — are you thinking of Paolo Nutini? He’s from Scotland with an Italian name…the songs – Last Request, Jenny Don’t Be Hasty, from the album These Streets.
April 7, 2008 at 6:59 pm
Thanks, but this is not the same artist. I do remember Paolo’s “new shoes” song from the old “BOS”. I don’t expect to hear that song anymore either. I just don’t understand why we cannot contact George Knight, and there’s no “contact us” or “comment” link anymore? I guess I shouldn’t be still expecting anything from Radio 92.9. I will keep searching for that artist, that I’m looking for. I wonder if the listener line is still there? I may check that out on Sunday! Maybe I can even talk to George. Thanks again.
April 11, 2008 at 2:06 pm
I love the new format. LOVE it.
the river has gotten too soft, FNX got too hard – here is the station I have been waiting for.
BTW, there is never a wrong time for the Beastie Boys to be playing.
April 11, 2008 at 7:22 pm
WBOS has been my favorite radio station for years. I was very sad to hear the new station format. I’m glad to know that I am not the only person who feels this way. The station still limits its commercials and morning talk shows, which I do appreciate; However, I do miss the old WBOS. I considered it the ideal radio station. I have not found any similar stations on the radio, to date, and will greatly miss WBOS.
April 13, 2008 at 12:31 pm
Just found this posting and add my ‘ditto’ to the comments about the loss of a great radio station. The DJ’s were great, the music mix was broad, I enjoyed Sunday night blues and Sunday mornings (although still there..). Whenever I was out of town, it felt like coming home to get in the car and put on BOS. All-in-all, a lame effort to appeal to some ‘hip’ demographic that likes a loud and annoying mish-mash (and have you noticed how few female vocalists?). I used the new web site to send the station my comments, no surprise that there was no response. The station has as much personality and value as Wonder Bread.
April 15, 2008 at 8:17 pm
Hi -
Still mourning WBOS. Is there a petition?
Ashley
May 2, 2008 at 11:19 am
Just saw the comment left by “Chickie” about the Beastie Boys – you’re just the type of listener they’re looking for. Congrats to 92.9 for finding a new listener. I’m sure acquiring one for the price of the many they lost will help them sleep well at night!
May 4, 2008 at 7:37 am
Hate the new format, agree with most posts on here about it. I too was a long time listener.
I now listen almost exclusively to WXRV when I can get it. Also, WUMB, Umass Boston , although quite folky, has some awesome music, especially Dick Pleasance (SP?) show in the mornings at drive time.
May 6, 2008 at 11:00 am
Pamela, Thanks again for trying to find the artist that BOS used to play. I finally found it, today! The artist is Rodrigo Y Gabriela. The song is Tamacun
I was Starbucks, and they are still selling the WBOS Studio 7, Live from the Archives CD. Sorry if I make anyone else sad about that part. I bought the CD, when I noticed the list of artists on the back of the CD. Again, thanks for your help. I am so happy to find this CD. How sad, I never thougtht to buy it before now. I still wish BOS smartens up and fixes what they didn’t need to break! Oh well! I will be happy when I download this to my ipod!
June 17, 2008 at 1:40 pm
Try wmvy.com
They are on Martha’s Vineyard and are awesome. You can get the stream on ITunes too.
June 21, 2008 at 9:45 pm
Laurie;
I was trolling the boards reading all the VERY interesting stuff, and wanted to respond to a post you wrote in April.
The people you’re looking for go by the name Rodrigo Y Gabriela. The song we played was Tamacun.
Ooops – I’m not the brightest bulb – just scrolled up and realized someone already answered that for you.
By the way, you can still reach me through georgeknight@wbos.com.
I’m very grateful for you listening over the years.
-George
June 23, 2008 at 7:40 pm
George,
Thanks for your post and glad you found this site. Hope things are going well for you!
July 4, 2008 at 4:10 pm
Thanks to George Knight for responding. I just came by to see if anyone had any new info and I see this response, cool! This is a great site for many things.
March 3, 2009 at 5:31 pm
I know it is time to get over it, but it has been a year now and I still can’t believe WBOS is gone. Growing up in the New York Metro area I found that the bigger the city, the less creativity in radio there is. As I grew older and traveled the country I was shocked to find out that there were such awesome radio stations out there playing great variety in music. When I moved to Boston I thought it would be just like New York with the same cookie cutter wonderbread playlists repeating over and over, which for most stations it is, but WBOS was awsome. It wasn’t too poppy, hard, soft..in fact it was too anything. It was a comfort in the car and became a huge part of my new life here in Boston. Here I am a year later still hoping that some day something like WBOS comes back to the air waves.
March 3, 2009 at 11:43 pm
Hi Brian, thanks for your comment. I feel the same way! I miss the radio. Almost never listen anymore except to WZLX classic rock and NPR. It’s a shame, I love being current on my music, but am just not into the other stations and I can’t get a good signal from the River.