While the city of Knoxville was looking toward the energy future at the 1982 World’s Fair, the College of Communications was also forward-facing with the launch of WUTK that same year.

The educational, non-profit radio station was first licensed to broadcast at 128 watts. WUTK was first known as Album 90, playing a mix or alternative rock and jazz. WUTK paved the way for many now popular acts such as REM, The Clash, Elvis Costello, and The Cure.