Album oriented rock Radio Stations
Album Oriented Rock (AOR) is a radio format that emerged in the United States in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The format emphasizes album tracks over hit singles and is associated with rock music that is more complex and diverse than what is typically played on mainstream radio.
The AOR format gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s and was particularly influential in shaping the sound of classic rock radio. Stations that play AOR often feature a mix of classic rock staples from bands like Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, and The Rolling Stones, as well as deeper cuts and lesser-known tracks from those artists and others.
A key feature of AOR is its emphasis on the album as a complete work of art, rather than just a collection of singles. AOR stations often play entire albums, allowing listeners to experience an artist's vision in full. This approach to programming also encourages exploration and discovery, as listeners may discover new artists or tracks they may not have heard before.
In addition to classic rock, AOR stations may also play progressive rock, hard rock, and other forms of rock music that prioritize musical experimentation and artistic expression. The format also typically avoids pop-oriented rock music that is geared towards the mainstream charts.
AOR radio stations often cater to a devoted fan base that values musical diversity, deeper cuts, and a deep appreciation for the artistry of rock music. The format is also associated with a sense of nostalgia and a longing for the music and culture of a bygone era, particularly among listeners who grew up during the peak of AOR's popularity in the 1970s and 1980s.
In summary, Album Oriented Rock is a radio format that emphasizes the album as a complete work of art and plays a mix of classic rock staples and deeper cuts from a variety of rock sub-genres. It is associated with a dedicated fan base that values musical diversity and a deep appreciation for the artistry of rock music.