It’s called Classic Rock for a reason, arguably the most enduring genre in 2020 and beyond. Finding clever ways to re-package this timeless music breathes new life into old songs and keeps listeners engaged and entertained. The audience that grew up with Classic Rock and the new generation that followed developed a bond with the artists, albums, and songs of that era. Today’s Program Directors are content architects, with a goal to create a listening experience that deepens that bond while building an emotional connection to the music and brand loyalty to the station.

80’s Hair Bands were short lived but yielded big hits

  • Web – Post Top 20 Hair Band videos, Listeners vote
  • Social – Audience sends big hair pics from the 80’s
  • Revenue – 80’s Boat Cruise, Class Reunion events

Simple coding on music software finds all the songs with guy-girl, man-woman or his-her themes

Strong engagement hook on Facebook, listeners play along and suggest “His-n-Her” Double Shots

  • Sponsorships – “His-n-Her” products
  • Social / Web – “Famous Couples in Rock”

Using iconic dates in history or pop culture as backdrops, rock stations should lead with attitude as the audience expects it. The official stoner holiday is a good example:

  • On 4/20 play selected “One Hit Wonders” from the Rock and Classic Rock era
  • Support the music with with pot themed audio from “Up in Smoke”, “Reefer Madness” or “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” to instantly frame the day and connect with your core
  • Creates a buzz on social media

I talk often about connecting emotionally with the audience because I’ve seen it deliver results. Listeners submit names of local veterans for a chance to ”takeover” the station as guest DJ’s on Veterans Day. Strong local engagement, media coverage

Classic Rock gave us hundreds of artists and thousands of songs. While format hits provide familiarity and help grow time spent listening, Classic Rock’s “secret sauce” are those occasional curveballs that keep your brand unique. When packaged properly, ”Lost Classics” is a creative addition to your features toolbox