WUSL, mainstream urban radio station in Philadelphia
WUSL, known as Power 99, is an FM radio station in Philadelphia broadcasting at 98.9 MHz. The station focuses on hip-hop and R&B music, delivering current hits alongside programming that includes interviews, music premieres, and news about emerging and established artists.
The station began broadcasting in 1961 as WPBS, originally playing soft music and easy listening under the name 'Velvet Stereo'. After LIN Broadcasting acquired it in 1976, it became WUSL, briefly experimented with country music, and switched to hip-hop and R&B in 1983, adopting the Power 99 brand.
Power 99 is deeply rooted in Philadelphia's African-American and Latino communities, reflecting their musical tastes and interests. Since shifting to hip-hop and R&B in the 1980s, the station has served as a cultural touchstone for urban music and entertainment in the city.
The station is easy to find on FM 98.9 and reaches Philadelphia and surrounding areas through its strong transmitter located at an elevated antenna site. Listeners can also stream online via power99.iheart.com or call in with music requests.
The station gained fame in the 1980s with the Carter & Sanborn Morning Show, a humorous program filled with characters that became hugely popular at the time. Many well-known radio personalities started here as interns or hosts and later achieved national recognition, including Wendy Williams.
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