In addition to the massive overhaul of their music library this summer, both adding and removing music to better fit the station format, this Christmas, The Remnant has plans to increase its holiday playlist by a third or more of last years music. Ben Carlson, Music Director for the station, has over 125 songs to add to the library. He hopes that it will not only increase variety over the month of December, but also add some music from artists who are familiar to Remnant listeners. Some of these artists include Rend Collective, The Oh Hello’s, Hawk Nelson, Sidewalk Prophets, Carrollton, and more!
With the increased Christmas playlist, The Remnant will be kicked off the Christmas season with the 2nd annual 88.1 Hours of Christmas, technically the 6th annual after changing the station name from 97.7 WVOE-FM. For 88.1 consecutive hours, The Remnant studios were filled with on-air talent, who not only be ushere in the Christmas season with great music, but also performed on-air “stunts”, including: singing songs, running barefoot in the snow while calling in, decorating the Mel Johnson statue, STUD ring-pop “proposals”, and more.
For someone that’s not a big fan of typical Christmas music, the Remnant is sure to offer some alternatives. “A phrase we often say on the Remnant is ‘Your future favorite music now’,” said Marissa Barry. “The radio station is designed around what you, the student body, likes and what music we feel you would most enjoy listening to. We are re-making a playlist that’s up to date, while still keeping the classics we know you love to hear.”
Trying to find new Christmas music that stands out from the rest can be a big challenge. Barry, who has dedicated much time to finding new music, said that she first looks for familiarity, songs people love to hear recorded by current favorite artists. Secondly, she tries to mix in new music that is less-popular, but they still have the same style of songs and artists that people seem to love. This Christmas season features hits from The Civil Wars, Relient K, She&Him, and the infamous Bing Crosby; setting the mood for the Christmas season.
The Remnant is just one of the many aspects of the Northwestern community that adds to the overall-winter atmosphere on campus. “During the holiday season, I believe that everyone is longing for home. We want to ditch our finals and have warm cocoa, a fireplace, and family,” said Barry. “However, I also believe we take for granted the winter wonderland that we get to live in. This playlist creates the perfect atmosphere for feeling cozy, filled with songs to help get us all into the Christmas spirit.”
Listen to The Remnant on the Tune-In Radio App (via 98.5HD4), on 88.1FM south of the cities (Newport, Woodbury, Cottage Grove, Hastings, White Bear Lake, Afton), by clicking the link on TheRock, and on TheRemnant.fm.
Article By: Lindsay Floyd – Remnant Music, Marketing & Sales Team
