Big Country 99.5 Celebrates KVOO’s 100th Anniversary
Griffin Media will introduce new call letters for its two Tulsa Country outlets beginning January 5, according to an announcement from Don Cristi, Director of Radio Operations & Programming. Big Country 99.5 will change its call letters to KVOO, while 98.5 The Bull will become KXBL. Both stations will continue their existing formats and on-air lineups, with no changes planned to local programming.
The move also sets the stage for KVOO’s 100th anniversary in 2026. Cristi said the centennial underscores the station’s deep roots in Oklahoma radio history, citing KVOO’s early live broadcasts from Cain’s Ballroom and its role in showcasing artists such as Bob Wills & the Texas Playboys. He also noted the station’s legacy as the longtime home of Country Music Hall of Famer Billy Parker and as an early platform for artists including Reba McEntire, Garth Brooks, Toby Keith, Brooks & Dunn and Blake Shelton.
Tanner Messer, Brand Manager for Big Country 99.5, said planning is already underway to mark the centennial year, with input from KVOO alumni and a focus on honoring the station’s heritage while engaging current listeners.
Griffin Media said the call letter changes are intended to honor KVOO’s history while positioning both stations for the future under familiar brands and voices
