In the words of the current KWLC student station manager, “For those of you who are unfamiliar with the little basement that rocks, let me give you the quick rundown. KWLC is Luther’s very own student-run commercial-free radio station. We pick the music, we go on-air, spin the tunes, and reap the benefits! College radio plays a super important role in the crazy music industry. Most artists don’t make the immediate leap to Top 40 commercial radio, and many of today’s favorite artists likely made their way up the radio ranks through stations like ours across the nation.” 

KWLC is one of the oldest continuously operating college radio stations in the country, signing on December 18, 1926 when then-president of Luther Oscar L. Olson read the Gettysburg Address. KWLC now broadcasts seven days a week as a time-share station, sharing our frequency and hours with local commercial station KDEC-AM.

Our programming reflects the larger mission of the college, providing music and information programs dedicated to promoting the liberal arts. From jazz to rock to world to classical music, from sports to religious worship services to all-college events, KWLC serves a variety of audiences on campus, in Decorah, and beyond. Give us a listen!