WLBG-FM Announces Closure After 77 Years of Broadcasting

News Summary

WLBG-FM, Laurens’ long-standing radio station, will close its doors on March 31, 2025, marking the end of a remarkable 77-year history. Owner Emil Finley announced the bittersweet decision after unsuccessful attempts to find a new owner. WLBG has been a cornerstone of the community, providing news, sports, and entertainment while fostering local voices. As Laurens prepares to bid farewell to this beloved station, the memories created over the decades will not be forgotten.

Laurens Says Goodbye to A Broadcasting Legend

In a heartfelt announcement that has touched many in the community, WLBG-FM, the beloved radio station serving Laurens, South Carolina, will shut its doors for good on March 31, 2025. After an impressive run of 77 years, this closure marks the end of an era for local broadcasting that began way back in 1948.

A Tough Decision for All

The owner of WLBG, Emil Finley, has informed stakeholders and advertisers about this bittersweet decision. It certainly doesn’t come easy, as Finley has shared that efforts to find a new owner over the past eight years have not been successful. This is a painful decision for everyone involved, especially for those who have fond memories of the station and its role in their lives.

The Heart of Laurens

For generations, WLBG has been more than just a radio station; it has been a significant part of the community, providing locals with essential news, sports coverage, and a variety of community programs. Popular shows like “Good Morning, Upcountry” and “The Gospel Express” have entertained and informed residents throughout the years, all while showcasing local talent and voices.

One of the most notable features of WLBG was its active involvement in local sports. The station’s dedicated sports department, led by Mike Hughes, has provided coverage of everything from youth baseball to high school football, creating a sense of pride for local teams. Over the years, these broadcasts have brought families together to cheer their teams on.

A Pioneer in Local Media

The station, originally purchased by Southeastern Broadcast Associates Inc. in 1983, also had a hand in shaping local politics, regularly providing coverage of election nights and featuring discussions about community issues. This made it an instrumental resource and gathering place for local citizens.

Bill Hogan, a former owner, deserves special recognition for his initiative in creating a statewide scoreboard for high school football, which earned him a spot in the Laurens County Sports Hall of Fame. His contributions were crucial in giving local high school athletes the recognition they rightly deserved.

Adapting to Change

As with many other traditional media outlets, WLBG has faced challenges from the advancing world of social media. The shift in audience preferences has greatly impacted smaller stations like WLBG, making it hard to compete in today’s fast-paced environment where information is just a click away.

Despite these challenges, the commitment to serving the community never wavered. Emil Finley has expressed deep gratitude towards the loyal listeners, supportive staff, and local businesses that have championed the station throughout its journey. They have all played a crucial role in keeping WLBG a beloved institution for all these years.

What Lies Ahead

While it may be the end of the road for broadcasting operations at WLBG, the station will not return its broadcasting license to the FCC immediately. For the next few months, the station’s email address will still be active for any inquiries, allowing the community to stay connected during this transition period.

As Laurens prepares to say a final farewell to WLBG-FM, many will undoubtedly remember the station with affection and nostalgia. The rich history of this local treasure has created countless memories for residents who tuned in for news, comfort, and camaraderie over the airwaves. Indeed, WLBG will be sorely missed in the hearts of many.

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Additional Resources

• Greenville Journal: WLBG-FM in Laurens, SC to Stop Broadcasting March 31
• GoLaurens: WLBG to Sign Off for the Final Time on March 31
• Wikipedia: Radio in the United States
• Google Search: Laurens SC news
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Radio