Backbeat
Backbeat went to air in mid-1996 on the 89.0FM frequency, previously used by The Generator. The station began DJ free, but has since added voluntary announcers.
Update September 2009: BackBeat, having been DJ free for some time now, has employed new staff. The relaunch of the station sees it become Hamilton's only locally owned commercial radio station. With nighttime specialty shows on their way, DJs running a Drive Show between 4-7pm and sales staff getting support from businesses, BackBeat looks set to take on the big networked radio stations. The 89 frequency which has been the subject of much debate in the past looks set to stay where it is. The frequency lease will come to an end at the end of 2010 but due to the success of the station and its owner having first rights to extend the lease it appears that BackBeat is here to stay.
