Denver's Radio Legacy: A Century of Connecting Communities

In 1922, Denver's airwaves came alive with the launch of KLZ 560 AM, marking the city's entry into the burgeoning world of radio broadcasting.

 

This pioneering station, the oldest in Colorado, transformed how residents accessed information and entertainment, fostering a shared experience that transcended physical boundaries.

 

Radio's ability to deliver content simultaneously to a vast audience mirrored Denver's spirit of connection and innovation.

 

Over the decades, the city's radio landscape has evolved, reflecting technological advancements and the community's changing needs.

 

In August 2023, Colorado Public Radio (CPR) took a significant step by acquiring a 72,000-square-foot building at 777 Grant Street in Denver's Capitol Hill neighborhood.

 

This new headquarters aims to consolidate CPR's operations, including CPR News, Denverite, CPR Classical, and Indie 102.3, under one roof.

 

The facility will also feature an auditorium for live events, enhancing community engagement and cultural access.

 

CPR President and CEO Stewart Vanderwilt emphasized the organization's commitment to serving all Coloradans and supporting democracy through this new home.

 

In September 2025, CPR expanded its regional collaboration by joining the Mountain West News Bureau, a partnership of public radio stations across seven Western states.

 

This alliance focuses on critical issues such as water and energy, public lands, rural economies, and Indigenous affairs, reinforcing CPR's dedication to delivering comprehensive news coverage.

 

Denver's radio stations have also embraced technological advancements to enhance listener experiences.

 

In October 2024, Front Range Country 103.1 (KQKS-HD2) integrated AI technology into its operations, becoming the first Audacy FM station to do so.

 

This innovation allows for remote management of music curation, content scheduling, ads, and voice tracking, showcasing Denver's commitment to communication innovation.

 

Furthermore, the resolution of a prolonged dispute between Altitude Sports and Comcast in February 2025 restored local broadcasts of Denver Nuggets and Colorado Avalanche games to Comcast's Xfinity TV service.

 

This agreement ended a five-year period during which many Colorado fans lacked access to live game broadcasts, highlighting the importance of media evolution in maintaining community connection.

 

Denver's radio history exemplifies the city's dedication to fostering community connection and ensuring cultural access.

 

From the early days of KLZ to the modern innovations of CPR and local stations, the evolution of radio in Denver underscores the enduring power of shared experiences and information at scale.