BYU-Idaho Radio celebrates 40 years on the airwaves this month. On May 1, 1984, Ricks College launched a new full-power radio station called KRIC. With 75,000 watts of power, the new station broadcast classical music and news programming on 100.5 FM to eastern Idaho, western Wyoming and southern Montana. Forty years later, KBYI 94.3 FM continues that legacy and invites the public to celebrate its 40th anniversary.
Even before KRIC hit the airwaves, radio at Ricks College, now BYU-Idaho, had a long legacy. Students and faculty advisors broadcast on local radio stations like KRXK in the 1950s. The college later broadcast on its own stations, first KRIX, then KVIK, and finally KRIC. In 1993, Ricks College added a student radio station called KWBH. That station continues as KBYR 91.5 FM, which plays inspirational music and speeches.
The week of May 13-17, BYU-Idaho Radio will broadcast interviews at noon and 6 p.m. with those who have made the radio station a reality to provide quality content to the community. You’ll hear from people like Lamar Barrus, Mark Bailey, Bryce Rydalch and more. On Friday, May 17, the radio station, located on Viking Drive next to the Student Health Center, will hold a public open house from noon to 2 p.m.
“We’re excited to remember the origins of BYU-Idaho Radio and the legacy built over the years on KRIC and now KBYI and KBYR,” said Brandon Isle, the radio services supervisor of BYU-Idaho Radio. “So many people have helped create what we call BYU-Idaho Radio today and we want to honor them. We can’t wait to have the public tour the radio station and take part in our festivities.”
Follow BYU-Idaho Radio’s social media channels for prize giveaways during the week of celebration and learn how you can add your voice to the legacy of the radio station. Follow us @byuidahoradio on Facebook, Instagram and X.