KXPK 96.5 signed on June 8, 1994 as “The Peak.” Owned by Evergreen Communications, the new station launched with an adult album alternative approach aimed directly at KBCO. Ray Skibitsky was general manager and Doug Clifton, one of several KBCO veterans recruited for the startup, served as program director.
The Peak emphasized local ownership and built a Lakewood studio complex that included the Peak Lounge, an intimate live-performance room. The Lounge hosted hundreds of performances from emerging, local and national artists, with CD proceeds supporting Denver-area causes through the Peak Foundation.
On October 12, 1998, The Peak shifted younger into alternative rock and added Howard Stern in mornings. Emmis Communications acquired the station in 2000, and 96.5 later moved to Spanish-language programming.
Sources: Colorado Music Experience — The Peak Lounge 1994–2000; KXPK history and cited Radio & Records chronology; Broadcast Pioneers of Colorado — Denver chronology.
Awards & Recognitions
Documented awards, honors, and finalist or nomination recognition associated with this station or broadcaster.
- 1995WinnerWestword Best of DenverBest Radio Station Success StoryKXPK-FM 96.5 (The Peak)Westword Best of Denver 1995
FROM THE TIMELINE
Moments in KXPK-FM History
KXPK The Peak signs on at 96.5
On June 8, 1994, KXPK 96.5 The Peak signed on with an adult album alternative format. Owned by Evergreen Communications, The Peak was designed in part to challenge KBCO for Denver adult-rock listeners.
The Peak shifts to alternative and adds Howard Stern
On October 12, 1998, KXPK 96.5 The Peak shifted toward a younger alternative-rock presentation and added the syndicated Howard Stern Show in mornings while retaining The Peak branding.
The Peak flips to all-80s
On September 5, 2000, KXPK 96.5 The Peak abandoned alternative rock for an all-1980s format. The change also ended the station's carriage of Howard Stern.
Clear Channel–AMFM merger forces major Denver radio divestitures
The U.S. Justice Department required a large package of station sales before approving Clear Channel’s merger with AMFM in 2000. In Denver-Boulder, the divestiture list included KXPK-FM to Emmis; KDJM-FM, KIMN-FM and KXKL-FM to CBS; KALC-FM to Salem; and KVOD-AM to a buyer to be determined.
The Peak ends as KXPK prepares for Spanish format
On April 18, 2002, KXPK 96.5 The Peak ended its English-language music format. The station temporarily simulcast KALC before Entravision took control and launched its Radio Tri-Color Regional Mexican format.
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