WTUL New Orleans: The Voice of Progressive Radio at Tulane University
In the heart of Louisiana, WTUL stands as a beacon of musical diversity and community engagement. Operating at 91.5 MHz, this non-profit FM station serves the New Orleans area, blending the academic spirit of Tulane University with the eclectic cultural energy of the city. Known for its progressive and alternative approach, WTUL provides a platform for sounds that often bypass mainstream airwaves.
The station is owned by Tulane University and is managed by a dedicated team of students and local affiliates. By maintaining a 24-hour broadcast schedule, WTUL ensures that its listeners have constant access to a wide array of genres, ranging from electronica and classical to world reggae and straight-ahead jazz.
Key Facts
- Frequency: 91.5 MHz
- Ownership: Tulane University
- Launch Date: March 14, 1959
- Format: Progressive and alternative music
- Power: 1,500 watts Effective Radiated Power (ERP)
- Operation: Volunteer-run by students and New Orleans community members
Programming and Musical Diversity
WTUL is defined by its commitment to a progressive format, meaning it avoids rigid commercial playlists in favor of an eclectic mix. The station's programming is vast, encompassing several distinct styles:
- Cutting-edge alternative and electronica
- Classical, New Age, and folk
- Blues, Latin, and world reggae
- Straight-ahead jazz and show tunes
- Specialized content, including children's programming
A Rich History of Influence
Since its inception on March 14, 1959, WTUL has been more than just a campus radio station; it has been a launching pad for notable personalities. The station is famously where Jerry Springer—who later became a mayor, TV news anchor, and talk show host—began his career. Additionally, the renowned "Mother-in-Law" singer Ernie K-Doe served as a DJ for the station over many years.
In its early days, the station experienced a curious phenomenon: despite its low wattage, WTUL was occasionally picked up as far away as New York City. This was largely due to the limited number of stations occupying the FM band at the time.
Community Impact and Fundraising
The station is well-known locally for the "Rock On Survival Marathon," an annual fundraiser featuring live bands on the Tulane campus. To coincide with this event, WTUL releases a compilation CD titled Songs from the Basement, which showcases a blend of local, national, and international artists.
Resilience Through Disaster
The strength of WTUL was tested on August 28, 2005, when the station went off the air as Hurricane Katrina approached New Orleans. The floodwaters damaged the station's temporary housing in the University Center. However, the community's resolve ensured the station's return.
On December 15, 2005, WTUL resumed broadcasting from a donated space on the mezzanine of the Rue de la Course coffeehouse in the Carrollton neighborhood. During this period, the station maintained its internet presence through donated bandwidth from the Center for Computer Research in Music and Acoustics (CCRMA) at Stanford University.
After a period of limited broadcasting and a subsequent move to Uptown Square, the station eventually returned to its home on campus. Today, it broadcasts from a modern studio located in the basement of the Lavin-Bernick Center for University Life.
Technical Specifications
WTUL operates under the authority of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) as a Class A station. Its technical infrastructure is designed to cover the New Orleans metropolitan area effectively.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Call Sign Meaning | TULane University |
| Facility ID | 68321 |
| ERP (Effective Radiated Power) | 1,500 watts |
| HAAT (Height Above Average Terrain) | 49 meters (161 ft) |
| Broadcast Area | New Orleans, Louisiana |
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of music does WTUL play?
WTUL follows a progressive and alternative format, playing an eclectic mix that includes electronica, classical, jazz, folk, blues, Latin, world reggae, and more.
Who runs the WTUL radio station?
The station is a non-profit entity owned by Tulane University and is operated by volunteers, including Tulane students and local affiliates from the New Orleans community.
How did Hurricane Katrina affect the station?
The station went off the air on August 28, 2005, and its facilities were damaged by flooding. It returned to the air in December 2005 via a temporary studio in the Carrollton neighborhood before eventually returning to the Tulane campus.
What is the "Rock On Survival Marathon"?
It is a locally famous annual fundraising event featuring live bands on the Tulane campus, which coincides with the release of the Songs from the Basement compilation CD.
Can I listen to WTUL online?
Yes, WTUL provides a webcast for listeners to access their programming via the internet.