On Halloween night, 1963, WKMH, a perennial also-ran in the Detroit radio race, began a transformation that would broadcasting history. It began with 24 hours of halloween programming, followed by “The Battle of the Giants” where listeners literally decided exactly what would be played on the air. What followed was and amazing run from the bottom to the top of the ratings. In 72 days WKNR became the most listened to rock radio station in the Motor City.

To celebrate the birth of Keener 13, former WKNR DJ Greg Innis will be broadcasting a special program on WCXI, AM 1160 in Detroit. Greg says, ” On Friday afternoon, November 1st, I will bring many Keener airchecks, promos and jingles  join Jimmy James as we pay tribute to Keener 13. We will also count down the entire 1st-ever Keener music guide. Hopefully we can talk on the air to a couple of former Keener jocks from the 60’s, as well as hear from various listeners as they share their memories of WKNR.
The show will air from 2:PM to 5:PM (EST). If you have a hard time getting the signal, you can hear it on the WCXI web-site. Simply type in WCXI AM 1160 and click on where it says listen live.”

All of us at Keener13.com hope you’ll celebrate here as well. Explore our exclusive air check archive, page through our complete digital library of WKNR Music Guides and share your own Keener memories on our Keener13.com Facebook page.

WKNR’s prime was all too brief, but for so many of us who grew up in Detroit in the 1960s, it was the soundtrack of our lives. And as long as we have memories, Keener Lives!

Scott Westerman and Steve Schram – Keener13.com