Alpha Media Chicago Launches ‘Free Country’ Simulcast
• UPDATED: After several weeks of speculation, Alpha Media Chicago has launched a new Country simulcast by A) rebranding its legacy Country station WCCQ/Joliet, IL as Free Country 98.3 and B) sharing the format on 102.3, now former Hot AC WXLC (Star 102.3)/Waukegan, to create the all-new Free Country 98.3 & 102.3.
The first official hire as Asst. Brand Manager & MD is Chicago market veteran Drew Walker (left), who spent the past two decades at Audacy Country rival WUSN (US*99), most recently in middays. “I’m elated to be part of Free Country 98.3 and 102.3,” said Walker, who will also do afternoon drive. “What an incredible opportunity to bring the best Country music to even more fans across all of Chicagoland. The team at Alpha Media is truly special… let’s go!”
The full Free Country on-air lineup begins Tuesday, May 28, starting in morning drive with the Premiere-syndicated Bobby Bones Show. Bobby Bones (below, left) remarked, “I’m a lifelong Cubs fan. And I’ve watched The Last Dance on Netflix three times. I can’t wait to be on in Chicago… and back in Chicago (except for the dead of winter, because people from Chicagoland are way tougher than I am). This is personally very exciting for me!”
Middays on Free Country will be hosted by Chicago’s own Hannah B (center), who exclaimed, “I am beyond excited to be a part of Chicagoland’s Free Country! My goal ever since I started in radio was to make it to Country radio! This is a dream come true! I’m so grateful for this amazing opportunity!” Hannah and Eddie Volkman will continue to anchor afternoon drive on Hot AC siblings WSSR (Star 96.7)/Joliet and WZSR (Star 105.5)/Woodstock.
Taking command of the Free Country night shift is the Skyview Networks-syndicated B-Dub Radio, hosted by Bryan “B-Dub” Washington (right), who said, “I can’t wait to bring my energy and love for Country music to the night show on Free Country. It’s going to be an amazing experience connecting with the listeners in Chicagoland.”
Drew Walker added, “With this team in place, Free Country is poised to become a go-to destination for Country music fans across Chicagoland. We’re excited to deliver top-notch local and Nashville content plus unforgettable music experiences for FREE to our listeners.”
Phil Becker, Alpha Media EVP of Content, emphasized the unique advantages of radio in today’s media landscape, as he noted, “Radio’s greatest benefit is often overlooked — it’s completely free. Free to listen, free to win, and free to subscribe. While streaming services and tech companies are charging for music and content, Free Country at 98.3 and 102.3 is dedicated to providing Country music and fan experiences to Chicagoans at no cost.”
• This is not the first time Alpha Media has successfully executed a strategic simulcast on dual frequencies in a major market — in April 2022, to better serve the San Francisco Bay/South Bay area, Alpha launched Bay Country on 94.5 KBAY/San Jose and 92.1 KKDV/Walnut Creek, CA.
