 | This article needs additional citations for verification. (December 2018) |
| Type | Radio network |
|---|---|
| Country | |
| Availability | National |
| Owner | ABC Radio Networks (through Capital Cities Communications (1986-1995); trademark currently owned by Cumulus Media; & The Walt Disney Company (1996 only)) |
Launch date | September 1, 1986 |
| Dissolved | December 31, 1996 |
Z Rock was a nationally syndicated radio network based in Dallas, Texas, United States that, from the mid-1980s through the mid-1990s, played heavy metal and hard rock music. The format was one of several 24-hour satellite-delivered music formats offered by the pioneering Satellite Music Network (a company which in 1989 merged with ABC Radio Networks and later became Cumulus Media Networks). Z Rock debuted on Labor Day in 1986 with WZRC in Chicago as its first affiliate.[1] During its early days, Z Rock drew attention for playing unedited, explicit versions of songs. In March 1990, Z Rock was nominated for the Billboard Awards, the only time a full-time hard rock/metal programming service has ever been so honored in the history of Billboard magazine.[citation needed] After several changes in personnel and programming direction, the network was discontinued on December 31, 1996.
- ^ Freeman, Kim (September 13, 1986). "WYEN Goes From Soft To Hard" (PDF). Billboard. p. 10. Retrieved December 13, 2018.