Pamal Broadcasting has decided to steer its Altamont, NY-licensed WINU 104.9 frequency towards Country music, introducing a format branded as “Big Country.” The format switch gives the company two signals in competition with Townsquare Media’s heritage Country station, WGNA.
Originally acquired by Pamal in 1998 for $2.2 million, WINU has undergone multiple format changes over the years. It started as “The Point,” moved to Smooth Jazz, then Urban Adult Contemporary, and eventually became Active Rock as “The Edge.” Prior to its latest country pivot, the station had briefly adopted a Country format known as 104.9 The Cat.
In terms of reach, WINU is also being simulcast on W250CC at 97.9 MHz, extending its coverage to include the nearby Adirondack foothills and Lake George. This move follows low Nielsen Audio ratings for WINU’s previous Alternative format, which registered a 0.5 share in August 2023.
I’m thrilled to see WINU embrace the Country genre with the “Big Country” format! It’s a bold move that’s long overdue. The station had been feeling a bit stale in its previous direction. The energy and spirit of Country music are a perfect fit for the region. Fingers crossed that this new direction will resonate with listeners and help WINU regain its place as a top radio station in the Altamont community! 🌟🎵📈
What an exciting shift! I always found WINU’s Alt. format a bit lackluster, but switching to Country has breathed so much life into it. The “Big Country” branding is spot-on! I’m really hoping this rebranding helps WINU make a comeback and become one of the hottest stations in the Altamont area! 🎵🎙️
Wow, this change is a real eye-opener! I always felt WINU’s Alt. format was a bit bland, but switching to Country gives it so much more energy. That “Big Country” branding is spot-on! Here’s hoping this revamp helps WINU make a comeback and become one of the hottest stations in the Altamont area! 🎵🎤