WMEX

In 1957, WMEX in Boston took a gamble. It switched to a rock-and-roll format, becoming one of the first in the US. This bold move transformed WMEX into a hub for rock ‘n’ roll enthusiasts. WMEX wasn’t just about the music. It also pioneered talk radio. Jerry Williams’s call-in show brought listeners’ voices to the airwaves. This was revolutionary in the late 1950s, marking WMEX as an innovator. WMEX continued its innovative streak by being an early adopter of “American Top 40.” John Garabedian’s programming further solidified WMEX’s reputation for breaking new music. He championed artists like Rod Stewart and The Moody Blues, proving his knack for predicting hits. Despite facing competition, WMEX held its own. Even with a weaker nighttime signal, its unique blend of music and talk kept listeners tuned in. WMEX’s influence extended beyond Boston, reaching audiences as far as Nova Scotia and Labrador. The station’s legacy is etched in Boston’s radio history. From its early days of live jazz broadcasts to its rock ‘n’ roll reign, WMEX left a lasting mark. Even after periods of silence and format changes, the WMEX call letters returned in 2014. This revival speaks to the enduring power of the station’s name and its connection to Boston’s music scene. Today, WMEX blends its oldies format with local news and features, keeping the spirit of its past alive. The station continues to serve the Greater Boston area, playing classic hits from the 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s. WMEX broadcasts with 10,000 watts during the day. Its studios are located in Marshfield, Massachusetts, a testament to its continued presence in the region’s media landscape.