Oasis history

In November of 1961, WSMC aired program tests. Tests showed that a radio signal could be received as far as Signal Mountain. Programming went live in 1961. 

Performance Today joined WSMC’s programming. 

The FCC coordinated a frequency change for WSMC to 90.5 FM in an effort to reduce interference. A new 560-foot tower and antenna were erected on Mowbray Mountain in Soddy-Daisy. The new location and equipment greatly improved coverage and penetration of signal, enabling WSMC to have a clear shot at downtown Chattanooga. The Mowbray site gave WSMC the ability to broadcast into the major valleys instead of across them, as it did from the White Oak Mountain site.

NPR membership was transferred to WUTC.

WSMC began creating partnerships with Chattanooga organizations to promote and support the local community. 

In order to bring the highest quality classical music to the community, give a more well-rounded education to students, and to further its mission, WSMC makes some changes. Top national classical hosts join the airwaves, and local programs are concentrated into a four-hour block.  Students are provided with expanded training in management, marketing, fundraising, and community engagement. The concept of the student manager comes back, with Tyler Rand appointed to the classical station, and Robby Raney to a new Christian station called Oasis.