KLTA Becomes FM 105.1

Previous Format: AC “Lite Rock 105” KLTA
New Format: Hot AC “FM 105.1”
Date & Time Of Change: January 19, 2004 at 7:20am
More Info: Wikipedia

Fargo’s KLTA “Lite Rock 105” was a heritage brand in the market, with nearly 20 years as an AC. However, as musical tastes and competition changed in the early 2000s, the station evolved from Elton John, Faith Hill and Celine Dion into Matchbox Twenty, Sheryl Crow and Train. To modernize the brand, the decision was made to change the station’s name to “FM 105.1” as a true Hot AC. Although the name “FM” may seem boring and generic for most radio stations, it held a double meaning, as it was the abbreviation for the community (Fargo-Moorhead) it served. To prepare for a change, the staff touted that they would be “turning off the lite” on Monday, January 19th, 2004 at 7:20am. While this lead many to believe it would be a full-blown format change, it was simply an evolution of the station — same staff, same music — just a fresh coat of paint.

Aircheck & Summary Contributed by Tony Lorino