A New Era for Seattle’s Dance Music Scene: The Rebranding of DANCE 89.5
Over 50 Years of Heritage
Seattle has long been known for its vibrant dance music scene, and at the heart of it is c89.5, which has been a beloved fixture on the airwaves for over five decades. This iconic station, known for its rich contributions to the local electronic music culture, has officially transitioned to a fresh identity as DANCE 89.5. The rebranding, unveiled at 9 AM today during Mornings with Drew Bailey, marks a significant evolution for the station while staying true to its foundational mission.
Visionary Leadership and Commitment to Culture
Harmony Soleil, the Program/Music Director at DANCE 89.5, emphasized the deep-rooted connection the station has with both Seattle and the broader Pacific Northwest. “As the longest-running dance music radio station in the United States,” she states, “this new chapter will allow us to further champion dance music of all shades and sounds.” With an intention to elevate Seattle artists while showcasing international talent, DANCE 89.5 aims to serve as a cultural bridge, melding local enthusiasm with global influences. The station’s commitment to participating in renowned industry events, such as the Amsterdam Dance Event and Miami Music Week, underscores its ambition to be a prominent figure in the dance music community.
Consistency Amid Change
While the name may be new, the foundational elements of the station—its focus on community, education, and dance music—remain steadfast. June Fox, the General Manager, reassures listeners that the mission persists: to create memorable experiences that connect people through the music they love. “DANCE 89.5 reflects who we’ve always been,” she affirms. The rebrand aims to showcase the station as “Seattle’s Party Radio,” a fitting descriptor for its lively airwaves that resonate with the spirit of the Seattle nightlife.
Student-Led Initiatives Continue to Thrive
One of the most noteworthy aspects of DANCE 89.5 is its commitment to being a student-led station, an element that many fans have cherished over the years. The station’s leadership maintains that this educational focus is “at the core” of their initiatives. In fact, student involvement is on the rise rather than decline, providing hands-on training and mentorship for the next generation of media professionals. This dedication to education empowers students not only to learn the craft of broadcasting but also to contribute creatively to Seattle’s electronic music narrative.
A Fresh Look for a Dynamic Future
Along with its new branding, DANCE 89.5 has unveiled a vibrant design and a user-friendly website, creating an inviting atmosphere for both long-time listeners and newcomers. The fresh identity maintains elements of the cherished c89.5 aesthetic while injecting a contemporary flair that better reflects the station’s mission in today’s much-changed landscape. The emphasis on diverse programming and community engagement continues to be a hallmark of the station’s approach, promising audiences engaging content that elevates the local music scene.
Legacy Meets Innovation
As DANCE 89.5 takes its place on this new trajectory, it’s important to remember the station’s storied past, which began as a modest broadcaster over 50 years ago. It has since become a cornerstone of the Pacific Northwest, influencing countless artists and shaping the electronic music industry. The journey from KNHC to c89.5 and now to DANCE 89.5 represents not just a name change but a broader vision for the future—one that seeks to expand the station’s reach and impact.
Listeners are encouraged to reconnect with DANCE 89.5, a platform that has not only been part of their lives but has also evolved to better serve diverse musical tastes while remaining an advocate for community and culture. With its revitalized commitment to dance music and innovative programming, now is an ideal time to tune back in and experience what DANCE 89.5 has to offer.
Full Press Release
DANCE 89.5, formerly known as c89.5, has launched a new brand identity, heralding an exciting chapter for the nation’s longest-running dance music radio station. The introducing tagline “Seattle’s Party Radio” reflects its role as the soundtrack to the local dance music community while remaining anchored in its mission to entertain, educate, connect, and inspire. As it aims for global leadership in electronic dance music, DANCE 89.5 will also focus on fostering partnerships and expanding listener experiences.
The station continues to serve the Seattle community while being a prominent platform in the electronic music landscape. Its legacy includes hands-on broadcast training for students, and it remains a vital contributor to Billboard’s Dance chart.
Listeners can look forward to the same dedication to dance music programming and enriching community interactions as DANCE 89.5 embraces this new era. The launch of the new brand is being reflected across all platforms and events, setting the stage for future innovations and musical adventures in Seattle.
About DANCE 89.5
DANCE 89.5, Seattle’s Party Radio, delivers cutting-edge electronic dance music to listeners across the Puget Sound region and beyond, continuing a legacy that has evolved from its humble beginnings. More than just a radio station, DANCE 89.5 serves as a tastemaker in the dance music genre, a committed community partner, and a hub for aspiring media professionals.
