Collection
89.3 The Current: The Early Years
On January 24, 2005, at 9:00 AM CST, Minnesota Public Radio (MPR) launched 89.3 The Current, a groundbreaking new station that quickly became a major cultural and musical hub in the region. This new service marked the third major offering from MPR and filled a critical niche as the station’s dedicated alternative music channel. Modeled after successful noncommercial alternative radio stations across the country, The Current was designed to present a diverse mix of contemporary music while prioritizing local artists, with an emphasis on showcasing the rich and vibrant Minnesota music scene. The station’s programming featured a dynamic mix of indie rock, folk, electronic, and experimental genres, with a particularly heavy rotation of local and regional talent, making it a unique platform for emerging voices in the music world.
Before MPR’s acquisition and rebranding of the station, 89.3 FM had been known as WCAL, a station dedicated to classical music. The transition from WCAL to The Current marked a significant shift in programming and audience focus, with MPR working to cultivate a fresh identity and community connection. The launch of The Current was part of MPR’s broader strategy to diversify its offerings and engage with a wider, more youthful demographic, while still maintaining its commitment to high-quality, noncommercial broadcasting. This change not only marked a new era for MPR but also represented a major moment in the landscape of alternative radio, as The Current quickly gained traction as a beloved fixture in the Twin Cities and beyond.
9 Collection Items
- The Current interviews rocker Billy Idol
Musician Billy Idol joins The Current’s Mary Lucia to talk about his book “Dancing with Myself,” his career, punk rock, and more.
- Bobby Vee reflects on a young Bob Dylan
The Current’s Steve Seel interviews American singer, songwriter, and musician Bobby Vee about working with a young Bob Dylan. Vee shares a story of Dylan playing in Vee’s band.
- The Current's Bill Deville is excited Prince will perform at the Super Bowl
The Current’s Bill DeVille joins All Things Considered’s Tom Crann to talk about why he is excited for the Super Bowl and possible songs Prince might play.
- Chris Riemenschneider on a look back at the first year of The Current
Local music critic Chris Riemenschneider joins Morning Edition’s Cathy Wurzer to talk about what makes The Current different from other radio stations. Riemenschneider discusses the revolutionary and eclectic nature of the initial playlists.
- Native American poet Joy Harjo on The Current
The Current’s Mary Lucia talks with Native American poet and saxophonist Joy Harjo who shares thought about her work. Segment includes excerpt of “Woman Hanging from the Thirteenth Floor Window.”
- Locals hopeful KCMP will be a boost for Minnesota grown music
Minnesota Public Radio's new radio service KCMP launched this morning January 24, 2005. Nicknamed "The Current," the station's format features an eclectic array of music, including local bands that may have received limited airplay on commercial and other Twin Cities public radio stations.
- The Current launches on Monday January 24th, 2005
Bill Catlin reports on Minnesota Public Radio’s announcement of its third service in the Twin Cities, with launch of 89.3 The Current on Monday, January 24th, 2005.
- Steve Nelson on new "diverse" musical format for old WCAL
MPR announces "diverse" musical format for old WCAL. Steve Nelson, program director for 89.3 KCMP, discusses the new program and plans for KCMP 89.3, formally known as WCAL 89.3.
- Ask the President: Bill Kling discusses WCAL purchase
Minnesota Public Radio President Bill Kling joins Gary Eichten to answer questions from MPR listeners about buying WCAL and a range of other topics.