Celebrating 45 Years of WMSE: A New Era with Radiate

Milwaukee’s Vibrant Soundscape

In March of 1981, WMSE 91.7 FM made its debut, quickly establishing itself as a beacon of free-form radio in Milwaukee. Now, as the station commemorates its 45th anniversary, WMSE reflects on its impactful legacy while embarking on an exciting new venture: Radiate, a festival dedicated to DJs and dance music culture.

The Independent Spirit of WMSE

WMSE’s foundation is built upon independence and community support. The station thrives on the contributions of volunteers, donors, and passionate music enthusiasts who believe in the enriching power of diverse sounds. Its format allows DJs to explore a wide range of genres, showcasing creative freedom that invites listeners on an auditory journey. Throughout the year, WMSE will host various events and gatherings to celebrate not just where it’s been, but the exciting future that lies ahead.

A Celebration of Community and Music

Tom Crawford, WMSE’s station manager, emphasizes the importance of community in the station’s success. “We would not be here without the listeners, volunteers, supporters, and music fans who have sustained WMSE for 45 years,” he stated. His words capture the essence of WMSE: a platform shaped by collective passion and commitment to uplift music and culture that often goes unheard on mainstream radio.

Introducing Radiate: A Dance Music Festival

Radiate represents the evolution of WMSE in the contemporary music landscape. Slated for May 30th from noon to midnight at Third Space Brewing, this inaugural festival promises to immerse attendees in the pulsating energy of electronic dance music (EDM). Curated by WMSE’s own DJ Jayx, the event aims to spotlight the vibrant dance music community, featuring a lineup that captures the various sub-genres of EDM, such as house and techno.

The festival is designed to be an inclusive, all-ages event that draws the community together. It embodies WMSE’s ethos of accessibility and connectivity through music, where people from all walks of life can come together to celebrate the dynamic rhythms of dance.

Rockabilly Chili: A Beloved Tradition

Before the Radiate Festival takes the spotlight, WMSE will host Rockabilly Chili, an annual tradition that showcases the culinary talents of local restaurants while raising funds for the station. This year, the event takes place on March 22 at the Milwaukee School of Engineering’s Kern Center. It’s not just a chili competition; it’s a vibrant gathering that allows WMSE to connect with its supporters and share in the joy of good food and community spirit.

Attendees can expect a fun atmosphere, delicious chili tastings, and a chance to learn more about the upcoming Radiate Festival. Advance tickets for Rockabilly Chili are priced at $15, with a $20 entry fee available at the door. For more details, interested participants can visit WMSE’s dedicated page at wmse.org/chili.

Looking Ahead: A Year of Celebration

As 2026 unfolds, WMSE has an exciting calendar filled with special events, surprises, and community gatherings. The Radiate Festival is set to be a highlight, but it’s just one of many initiatives aimed at fostering connection through music. More artist announcements and programming information will be revealed in the coming weeks, promising an unforgettable year for WMSE and its listeners.

About WMSE’s Mission

Since its inception, WMSE has positioned itself as Milwaukee’s premier music radio institution. With a mission to provide a platform for music not typically featured in mainstream outlets, it supports a diverse array of genres and local artists. This vision is upheld through listener-supported funding, ensuring that Milwaukeeans continue to enjoy a rich tapestry of musical programming that reflects the city’s eclectic spirit.

Innovation and community engagement are at the heart of WMSE’s operations, and as it strides into the future, it remains dedicated to celebrating both the past 45 years and the vibrant landscape that lies ahead. For more information about WMSE and its initiatives, visit www.wmse.org.