Alpha Media’s suburban Chicago station WERV (95.9 The River)/Aurora, IL has shifted from Classic Hits to Classic Alternative. The River adjusts its positioning statement from “Rock ‘n Roll Favorites” to “Chicagoland’s Classic Alternative.” 

Phil Becker, Alpha Media’s EVP/Content, elaborated on the strategic shift: “Classic Alternative is a natural extension of Classic Rock. Just as throwback hip-hop stations tapped into a rich vein of nostalgia for 90s rap and R&B about ten years ago, we believe Classic Alternative will do the same for the alternative hits of the 90s. There’s a valuable audience in Chicagoland that’s been overlooked, and 95.9 The River is poised to fill that gap with a format that resonates deeply with listeners who grew up on this music. We anticipate this will be one of the nation’s hottest new formats for those who execute it properly.”

In conjunction with this format change, Alpha Media announces the addition of Todd Nuke’Em as the station’s Content Director/midday host. Nuke ‘Em will continue his longtime PD/Afternoon responsibilities at Broadway Media Alternative KXRK (X96)/Salt Lake City.

“This is a revolutionary approach to programming,” explains Becker. “By working with another radio group like Broadway Media to share Todd’s services, we are pioneering a new way of thinking about talent and content development. Additionally, Alpha Media’s recent move into a shared workspace with Broadway Media highlights our commitment to unconventional and progressive ideas, further solidifying our reputation as industry innovators.”

Nuke’Em shares, “I am beyond excited to join 95.9 The River and help shape its new identity as a Classic Alternative station. “The 90s alternative era was a groundbreaking time in music, and I’m thrilled to bring that energy and spirit to Chicagoland.”

Meanwhile, AM Drive and PM Drive will remain local on 95.9 The River with Scott McKay continuing in mornings and Nick Jakusz remains in market in afternoon drive. Evenings will be hosted by X96 night-timer Artie Fufkin.

The station serves the western suburbs of Chicago. Check out 95.9 The River online HERE.