WLAW Radio: The History and Closure of Whitehall's 1490 AM
For seven decades, the 1490 kHz frequency served as a broadcast staple for Whitehall, Michigan. Known most recently as WLAW, the station navigated a complex journey through various formats and call signs, reflecting the shifting landscape of American AM radio. From its early days in the 1950s to its final days as a country music simulcast, WLAW was a key part of the Muskegon broadcast area.
Key Facts
- Frequency: 1490 kHz
- Location: Whitehall, Michigan (serving Muskegon)
- Final Branding: 97.5 Nash Icon
- Owner: Cumulus Media
- Operational Lifespan: 1955 to March 14, 2025
- Final Format: Country music (simulcast of WLAW-FM)
Evolution of Programming and Identity
WLAW first entered the airwaves in 1955 under the call sign WBFC. Over the next several decades, the station underwent numerous identity shifts, changing its call signs and programming to meet listener demands. During its tenure as WUBR, known as "The Bear," the station focused on adult standards before transitioning into sports broadcasting via ESPN Radio.
In December 2005, the station pivoted to a talk format under the WODJ call sign, which later became WKLQ. The station returned to sports in January 2019, adopting the WBBL call sign to simulcast WJRW after WBBL-FM discontinued its sports programming.
The Nash Icon Era
The final chapter of the station began on August 24, 2021, when it adopted the WLAW call sign. Shortly after, on August 30, 2021, it began simulcasting WLAW-FM. This partnership brought the "Nash Icon" branding to the 1490 AM frequency, delivering country music to the region.
Technical Specifications and Ownership
WLAW operated as a Class C station with a power output of 1,000 watts (unlimited). To extend its reach, the station utilized a translator, 99.1 W256DM, located in Whitehall. The station was owned by Cumulus Media, specifically through Radio License Holding CBC, LLC, and shared ownership with sister stations WLCS, WVIB, and WLAW-FM.
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| FCC Facility ID | 53962 |
| Licensing Authority | FCC (Federal Communications Commission) |
| Power Output | 1,000 Watts |
| Translator Frequency | 99.1 W256DM |
| Final Owner | Cumulus Media |
The Final Shutdown
The end of WLAW's broadcasting history arrived in March 2025. As part of a strategic shutdown of underperforming assets, Cumulus Media closed 11 stations over the weekend of March 14, 2025, including both WLAW and WLAW-FM.
The closure was further solidified by legal and financial complications. During Cumulus's Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings in March 2026, the tower leases for the WLAW stations were rejected. Consequently, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) officially cancelled the WLAW license on March 12, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did WLAW first begin broadcasting?
The station first went on the air in 1955, originally operating under the call sign WBFC.
What was the final music format of WLAW?
The station's final format was country music, branded as "Nash Icon," which it simulcast from WLAW-FM.
Why was the WLAW license cancelled?
The license was cancelled by the FCC on March 12, 2026, after tower leases were rejected during Cumulus Media's Chapter 11 bankruptcy process.
Which other stations were sister stations to WLAW?
WLAW's sister stations included WLCS, WVIB, and WLAW-FM.
What were some of the previous call signs used by the station?
Over its history, the station used several call signs, including WCBQ, WLRC, WLRQ, WPBK, WEFG, WUBR, WODJ, WKLQ, and WBBL.