Connoisseur Media is bringing a jolt of rock ’n’ roll to the Texas Panhandle with the launch of 102.9 The Rattler, a new station dedicated to classic rock. The brand debuted today and aims to fill what company leaders describe as a long-standing void in the Amarillo radio market.
Positioned as “Amarillo’s Real Classic Rock,” The Rattler will feature music from iconic acts such as Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Guns N’ Roses. The playlist will also highlight legendary Texas artists. Including ZZ Top, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and the Fabulous Thunderbirds, while incorporating newer bands positioned to join the rock canon.
The station launch brings familiar voices back to local airwaves. Veteran Amarillo rock radio personality Eric Slayter will serve as program director and on-air host. He’ll be joined by newcomers Mighty Iris and Dirty Dave. Connoisseur executives say the combination of heritage talent and fresh energy will give the station a strong identity. Serving both longtime rock fans and younger listeners discovering the format.
“Connoisseur Media is proud to provide Amarillo and the surrounding communities a true Classic Rock radio broadcast that has been missing from the Panhandle’s airwaves for too long,” Market Manager Cal Hall said in a statement. “We’re excited to bring the energy and passion of Classic Rock back to our listeners.”
For Slayter, the opportunity to help relaunch a classic rock format in Amarillo represents both nostalgia and renewed purpose.
“It’s amazing to be part of the launch of a Classic Rock station that’s not afraid to be loud, showcasing legendary Rock and incorporating the next wave of Classic Rock artists,” Slayter said. “It’s time to turn classic rock back up to 11.”
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