JBU, KLRC form FM radio station

John Brown University in Siloam Springs and KLRC (90.9-FM) have launched a new radio station, Real FM (100.3-FM). The 100.3-FM channel was formerly used by Rogers-based KURM Radio (790-AM, 100.3-FM).

The Rogers-based station ceased operations on July 1 after almost 45 years of broadcasting.

According to a news release, Real FM’s contemporary hit radio format plays a mix of mainstream and Christian pop and hip-hop from artists like NF, Forrest Frank and Lecrae. The station has been available as an online stream at real.fm and a mobile app since September 2017, before the recent move to terrestrial radio.

Real FM’s launch was supported by a one-day, on-air fundraiser KLRC hosted on April 3 for NWA Gives Day. Listeners donated more than $61,000 in 12 hours.

“We are thrilled to bring 100.3 Real FM to the airwaves of Northwest Arkansas,” said Ansen Bayer, program director for 100.3 Real FM. “This expansion will help us reach a new audience in Bentonville, Rogers, Springdale and beyond, including parts of northeast Oklahoma and southwest Missouri, all in service of KLRC’s mission to share hope in Jesus with as many people as possible.”

Bayer will also host afternoons on Real FM. The syndicated Brant Hansen Show with Hansen and Sherri Lynn will air in the mornings. Isaac Weaver, who previously worked at KLRC, will return to host middays, and Zoe Moody, who spent time at KLRC as a student, will host evenings. JBU work-study and practicum students will be heard from 10 p.m. to midnight.

Real FM’s office is at the KLRC office at 110 N. Broadway St. in Siloam Springs. The new station and KLRC have 13 staff.