WABX Dominates ‘Free-Form’ Sound on Detroit FM

WABX: A Revolutionary FM Voice in Progressive Rock and Counterculture

WABX 99 in Detroit was a trailblazing radio station during the early 1970s, known for its “progressive rock format” and free-form style. It played a pivotal role in introducing listeners to new and experimental music that mainstream stations often overlooked. The station’s DJs had the freedom to curate their playlists, which allowed for a diverse and eclectic mix of rock, blues, and folk music.

WABX also became a cultural hub, hosting events like free concerts, kite-flying gatherings, and bike-ins, fostering a sense of community among its listeners. It was instrumental in promoting artists like The Doors, Jimi Hendrix, Cream, and The J. Geils Band, giving them a platform to reach wider audiences.

WABX FM in Detroit began its transformation into a progressive rock station in 1967, marking a pivotal moment in its history. During the fall of that year, the station experimented with a new music show called “Troubadour,” which aired in the evenings and featured blues, folk, and rock music. This show received such a positive response that it convinced the station’s management to shift towards a full-time progressive rock format. By early 1968, WABX had fully embraced its free-form style, allowing DJs to curate their playlists and play a diverse range of music.

The station’s progressive rock journey officially took off in February 1968, but the groundwork laid in late 1967, including the introduction of “Troubadour,” was instrumental in shaping its identity.

In 1971, WABX in Detroit had a lineup of influential DJs who were central to its progressive rock radio identity. Some of the notable DJs included:

– Dave Dixon: Known as the “Father of Underground Radio,” he was a key figure in shaping WABX’s freeform style.
– Dan Carlisle: A prominent voice on the station, bringing a unique personality to the airwaves.
– Jerry Lubin: Another influential DJ who contributed to the station’s eclectic and experimental programming.
– Harvey Ovshinsky: Known for his creative approach and deep connection with the counterculture movement.

These DJs, among others, helped establish WABX as a cultural hub and a pioneer in progressive rock radio. By the mid-1970s, WABX transitioned to a more mainstream album-oriented rock format, but it maintained its laid-back and unique approach compared to its competitors. The station’s influence extended beyond Detroit, inspiring other stations to adopt similar progressive rock formats.

Here’s a deeper dive into its history and impact:

– Origins and Transition: WABX began as a classical music station in 1960, later transitioning to a middle-of-the-road (MOR) format. By 1968, it embraced a freeform progressive rock format, allowing DJs to curate their playlists without strict guidelines.

– Cultural Influence: The station became a cultural hub, hosting events like free concerts, kite-flying gatherings, and bike-ins. It was instrumental in promoting artists such as The Doors, Jimi Hendrix, Cream, and The J. Geils Band.

WABX 99X | Freeform Progressive Rock | April 30, 1972

Audio Digitally Remastered by USA Radio Museum | This audio presentation owned and courtesy of contributor: Kim Sulek

– Unique Style: WABX was known for its laid-back and experimental approach, which set it apart from other stations. It inspired other Detroit stations, like WKNR-FM and WXYZ-FM, to adopt similar progressive rock formats.

– Evolution: During the 1970s, WABX shifted to a more mainstream album-oriented rock format while maintaining its unique identity. By the 1980s, it transitioned to a “Hot Rock” format, blending new wave, pop, and rock music.

Three other WABX Luminaries

Jerry Goodwin: Jerry was a well-known DJ at WABX in Detroit during its progressive rock era. He was celebrated for his engaging personality and his ability to connect with the counterculture audience of the time. He was part of the station’s golden years, contributing to its reputation as a pioneer in progressive rock radio. Goodwin’s work at WABX left a lasting impression on Detroit’s radio scene and its listeners.

Larry Miller: Larry was a notable DJ at WABX during its progressive rock era. Miller’s style and approach embodied the countercultural spirit of the time, making him a key figure in WABX’s success as a progressive rock station on the Detroit FM dial. Interestingly, Larry Miller’s influence extended beyond WABX. He was also involved in the early days of free-form radio at KMPX in San Francisco, where he helped shape the underground FM radio movement. His contributions to radio were significant, and he left a lasting legacy in the industry.

Jim Hampton: Jim was one of the early voices on WABX. In 1968, as the station was embracing its shift toward a progressive style, rock format, Hampton helped set the tone with his eclectic programming and engaging on-air style. His contributions were part of a broader movement at WABX, where DJs were given an opportunity to explore and expand diverse musical selections and connect with the burgeoning counterculture audience of the time.

Hampton’s role was significant in that early phase; he, along with others, helped to craft the station’s distinctive identity. This period was characterized by experimentation and excitement as WABX, like many other stations on the FM dial, was breaking away from conventional programming formats.

WABX’s legacy as a pioneer of progressive rock radio continues to be remembered and celebrated today.