WDTK-AM

In 1925, a new voice emerged on Detroit’s airwaves. WDTK, then known as WMBC, first crackled to life. The Michigan Broadcast Company launched this station. It became an early platform for religious programming and gospel music. Imagine the soulful melodies filling the city’s air. WDTK’s early days also saw a darker chapter. The station was home to Jerry Buckley, a fiery conservative radio commentator. His outspoken views led to his tragic assassination in 1930. This happened at the LaSalle Hotel, after a successful mayoral recall campaign. WDTK, under its former call letters WJLB, transitioned in the 1960s. It became a hub for R&B and soul music. The station adopted the catchy moniker, “Tiger Radio”. One of its most iconic personalities was Martha Jean “The Queen” Steinberg. Her signature phrase, “I betcha!”, resonated with Detroiters. She bravely used her platform during the 1967 riots. Steinberg urged peace and calm amidst the chaos. In 1980, WJLB swapped call signs and formats with its sister station, WMZK-FM. The AM station became WMZK, embracing an ethnic format. Steinberg, without a station, purchased WMZK in 1982. The call letters changed to WQBH, representing “Queen Broadcasts Here”. WQBH offered a blend of R&B, urban gospel, and talk shows. Steinberg ran the station until her passing in 2000. Salem Communications acquired WQBH in 2004. They transformed it into the conservative talk powerhouse we know today. WDTK, meaning “Detroit Talk”, now features syndicated shows and local programming. The station’s signal reaches across Metro Detroit. It’s also accessible via an FM translator at 92.7 MHz. WDTK has evolved. It reflects changing times and tastes while maintaining a strong connection to the city. From gospel hymns to political discourse, WDTK’s journey is a testament to the power of radio in Detroit.