Lon Helton Comes Home To Chicago

June 26, 2024 kevincarter Compass Media Networks

• Alpha Media Chicagoland’s recently launched Free Country 98-3 & 102-3 (WCCQ/Joliet & WXLC/Waukegan) is ecstatic to announce the latest addition to its lineup — Lon Helton’s Country Countdown USA, hosted by Radio Hall of Famer Lon Helton and syndicated by Compass Media Networks.

“Lon is a Nashville legend and has deserved to be on the air in Chicago for years,” said Phil Becker, EVP of Content for Alpha Media. “It’s a literal ‘Free Country,’ and we are glad to have him join our remarkable team.”

“When we started to visualize the sound of this new station, Lon was my first and only choice for his phenomenal Country Countdown,” said Drew Walker, Free Country Asst. Content Director/Music Director. “I’m delighted to bring him home to our audience across Chicagoland. Lon’s deep knowledge of Country music and his engaging storytelling make this a perfect fit for our station. We’re confident that listeners will love the show!”

Helton expressed his excitement about bringing Country Countdown USA back to his hometown of Chicago, commenting, “It’s great to be on the air where you grew up. I grew up in The Heights, which is close to Joliet. And to have Country Countdown USA back on the air in Chicagoland on FREE Country 98-3 & 102-3 is an absolute thrill!”