KISW Radio Celebrates 55 Years in Seattle

The iconic rock station looks back on its history with archives, interactive features, and commemorative merchandise.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 11:08pm

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A dynamic, minimalist illustration featuring sharp, angular black silhouettes of rock music equipment and imagery set against a high-contrast red and white background, conceptually representing KISW radio's 55-year legacy in the Seattle music scene.KISW's 55 years of rock n' roll history in Seattle is celebrated through a vibrant, abstract visual metaphor.Seattle Today

KISW, Seattle's longtime rock radio station, is celebrating its 55th anniversary this year. The station is inviting listeners to explore its archives, revisit memorable personalities and moments, check out commemorative merchandise, and engage with interactive features that allow them to discover their own 'KISW era'.

Why it matters

KISW has been a fixture in the Seattle music scene for over half a century, providing a platform for the city's vibrant rock culture. The station's 55th anniversary celebration allows longtime listeners to reminisce and new fans to discover KISW's rich history and impact on the Pacific Northwest.

The details

The 55th anniversary celebration on KISW's website includes a deep dive into the station's archives, featuring photos, audio clips, and stories of the DJs, events, and milestones that have defined the station over the decades. Listeners can also browse through commemorative merchandise like t-shirts and hats, as well as engage with interactive features that let them determine their own 'KISW era' based on their music preferences.

  • KISW first went on the air in 1971.
  • The station is celebrating its 55th anniversary in 2026.

The players

KISW

A longtime rock radio station in Seattle, Washington that has been broadcasting since 1971 and is celebrating its 55th anniversary in 2026.

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The takeaway

KISW's 55-year legacy as Seattle's premier rock radio station is a testament to the enduring power of local, community-driven media to capture the spirit and culture of a city. This anniversary celebration allows both longtime listeners and new fans to connect with KISW's rich history and ongoing role in shaping the Pacific Northwest music scene.