Chicago's alternative rock station Q101 surges in ratings
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When it comes to radio rankings in 2024, WDRV-FM is firmly in the driver's seat.
The big picture: For several months now, "The Drive" has topped monthly ratings with its barrage of less talk, more classic rock.
Yes, but: The station has a long way to go to top the recent success of its competition, WLIT-FM, which held the top spot for more than a year and is now ranked fourth.
Biggest gains: WOJO-FM (Regional Mexican) and WUSN-FM (Country) both jumped considerably in August.
Biggest drop: Even though it still holds a spot in the top five, The Lite dropped back from a 5.9 to a 5.3.
Biggest surprise: Q101. The alt-rocker hasn't made too much noise since it's heyday in the early 2000s spinning Green Day and the Smashing Pumpkins (which they still play), while featuring "Mancow in the Morning," but it jumped up from a 1.9 to a 2.5 and is knocking on the door of the top 10.
- It's currently 11th.
Caveat: These ratings don't break down precisely when people are tuning in, or specific listener demographics.
Disclosure: Justin Kaufmann has worked for a number of these stations.