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Significant Changes Ahead for Atlanta’s The Fish Station

The inside of The Fish radio studio, a significant part of Atlanta's Christian community.

News Summary

Atlanta’s Contemporary Christian station, The Fish (WFSH-FM), is set for a major change as it will be sold to the Educational Media Foundation for $80 million. The sale, part of Salem Media Group’s strategy to tackle its debt, will see all Salem-owned stations, including The Fish, go off air by February 1, 2025. Morning hosts, Kevin Avery and Taylor Scott, shared emotional goodbyes, highlighting the deep connections developed with listeners over 24 years. The future programming direction remains uncertain, but the transition represents a new chapter for Atlanta’s Christian music scene.

Change is Coming to Atlanta’s Airwaves

Atlanta listeners, it’s time to prepare for some significant changes in the radio landscape. The beloved Contemporary Christian station, The Fish (WFSH-FM), is set to be sold to the Educational Media Foundation (EMF) for an impressive $80 million. This news comes as part of a larger strategy by the current owner, Salem Media Group, to strengthen its financial position.

What’s Driving the Change?

Salem Media Group has been proactive in addressing its nearly $160 million in long-term debt, prompting the decision to sell The Fish and several other Contemporary Christian music stations. By making this move, Salem aims to significantly improve its balance sheet and eliminate long-standing financial burdens.

All Stations Going Off Air

While the sale is undoubtedly a big development, it’s important for listeners to note that all of the stations under Salem’s current ownership, including The Fish, will be going offline on February 1, 2025. This date marks the end of an era for the station that has been a vital part of the Atlanta community for 24 years.

Emotional Goodbyes from Morning Hosts

In a heartfelt send-off, the morning hosts of The Fish, Kevin Avery and Taylor Scott, took to social media to express their gratitude for their time on air. Over their two and a half decades of broadcasting, they’ve built strong connections with their listeners and shared in many personal milestones and significant life events. Their experience reflects the deep ties that radio stations can cultivate within a community.

Transitioning Ownership and Future Programming

The sale represents Salem’s exit from the Contemporary Christian music format, allowing EMF, which runs two of the country’s largest Christian music radio networks, to step in. The operational plans for The Fish’s future programming remain somewhat unclear at this time, but there are indications that the station may simulcast either K-LOVE or Air1 Worship based on the specific needs of the Atlanta market.

Additional Financial Agreements

Along with the sale of The Fish, there’s a $10 million advertising and marketing deal included in the arrangement between Salem Media Group and EMF. This financial cooperation could pave the way for a smoother transition for listeners and advertisers alike, ensuring that the spirit of Christian music and programming continues to resonate in the area.

Regulatory Approval and Timeline

The completion of this transaction is expected to occur in the first half of 2025, contingent on regulatory approval. Until then, listeners can continue to enjoy their favorite weekday programs and cherished tunes while pondering what comes next for Atlanta’s Christian music scene.

The Future is Uncertain

As we inch closer to February 2025, many questions linger regarding what will fill the airwaves on 104.7 FM following the transition. While the legacy of The Fish has been one of uplifting music and faith-based programming, only time will tell how the station will evolve under new ownership.

Cheers to 24 Years of Hits and Heart!

Overall, this transition marks not only a shift in ownership but also a pivotal moment for both The Fish and its dedicated listeners across Atlanta. For over two decades, the station has been much more than just a source of music; it has been a part of life’s journey for many. As the countdown begins to a new chapter, the memories of those melodious mornings and inspirational messages will surely echo in the hearts of all who tuned in.