WRMR: A Decade Of Modern Rocking
• Capitol Broadcasting Alternative WRMR (Modern Rock 98.7)/Greenville-Jacksonville-Wilmington, NC celebrated its 10th anniversary at the start of 2021. Launched on January 3, 2011, Modern Rock’s massive 100,000-watt signal covers portions of 13 counties in Eastern and Southeastern North Carolina. It’s important to note that individuality remain at the forefront of Modern Rock 98.7, as the station takes massive pride in continuing to be locally programmed and hosted since its inception.
WRMR’s current PD Eric White commented, “Modern Rock’s family tree of past programmers is full of amazing talent!,” as he noted, “Dan Binder lead the rebranding, marketing, and programming of Modern Rock’s successful launch. Getting the mix just right and placing the best local talent on the air gave WRMR a huge out-of-the-gate push.” Following Binder, from 2013 to 2016, was Ross Mahoney, who said, “It always was a great sounding Alternative station, and connecting the bands to the fans gave Modern Rock a lot of credibility.” He added, “We were able to do stuff in Wilmington that Wilmington never had before.”
After Mahoney left for KXTE/Las Vegas, Paul Cannell took over, and had to scramble in his first week to completely restaff the station. Cannell commented, “Modern Rock has some of the most loyal fans anywhere! They came out in support of everything we did. Some of those listeners I still count as good friends that I still stay in touch with.” Following Cannell’s tenure, Laura Lee arrived in Wilmington to lead Modern Rock to even further heights. In addition to great programming and promotions, Ms. Lee was instrumental in increasing WRMR’s reporting footprint. “One of my best memories while at Modern Rock was achieving Mediabase status,” Lee said. “Such a distinctive station needed to not only influence Coastal Carolina, but the charts as well. Here’s to another 10 years!”
When discussing the continued success of Modern Rock as it celebrates a decade of service, Eric White (above) is quick to point out, “I’m standing on the shoulders of giants, and the view is darn good from up here!”
Pictured, above, sensibly celebrating while semi-high on helium, (l-r): Modern Rock afternoon personality Michaela, Morning Alternative host Randy Slack and midday talent Jack Spade.
