For 32 years, WWCD has been Columbus’ independent alternative radio station. The station is now known as CD92.9 — but it wasn’t always this way.Today, we are taking a look at the different iterations of WWCD with the help of Randy Malloy, owner of the station, who started as an intern 30 years ago.

In the beginning

In August 1990, the radio broadcasted its first airing on CD101.1 — and for many locals, this is still how they refer to the station (it’s something Randy loves hearing, too). At first, the station started playing heavy alternative rock, but then added triple A alternative (indie pop featuring less guitar) to attract more listeners and be less bound to a specific genre.

This is also when WWCD began getting plugged into the community by attending volunteer events + hosting concerts. Randy said community has always been the core of the station.

New owner, new era

CD101.1 stayed on the airways for 20 years before making the change to CD102.5 in 2010. This is when Randy took over the station from Roger Vaughn, the previous owner who lived in Upper Arlington and sold CD101.1 to Ohio State. In addition to playing more local music, the station moved to a new headquarters on S. Front Street where it still hosts concerts + events.

Thirty-two years later

During the beginning of the pandemic, CD102.5 made its most recent name change to CD92.9 after its contract expired with the old station. Now, anyone from the Red Hot Chili Peppers to Arcade Fire are played throughout the day.

Since then, the station has been busy adding events this year, including Sunday brunch + music sessions in The Big Room, and gearing up for festivals like ComFest.