WSTR-FM ATLANTA

STAR 94.5

EMILY BOLDON

When I listen to WSTR‑FM, better known as Star 94‑1 in Atlanta, one of the first things I notice is its identity as a heritage radio station in the market. Star 94 has been around for decades, and most people in Atlanta can name it or remember it. Over time it’s evolved—from Hot AC and adult Top 40 roots into what Audacy now calls a variety hits and rhythmic adult contemporary blend designed to appeal to adult listeners with music from the ’80s, ’90s, 2000s, and today. 

One of the station’s real strengths is that it serves a specific audience with a recognizable sound. Star 94 isn’t trying to be everything to everybody; it’s carved a lane for listeners who want a mix of familiar pop and rhythmic hits without going full CHR or pure oldies. That gives it a vibe that feels both familiar and comfortable for its listeners. 

Another thing the station does well is stay relevant with programming changes that create moments of interest in the market. In 2025, WSTR flipped to holiday music for the entire Christmas season and became Atlanta’s full‑time Christmas station after another long‑running holiday station changed formats. That move helped give the station visibility and a shot at higher ratings during a competitive time of year. 

Listeners online have mixed opinions about Star 94’s music mix. Some people appreciate the upbeat rhythmic pop focus and variety, while others find the playlist too predictable or dull—especially if they were expecting something more adventurous or modern. On forums like RadioDiscussion, a few listeners have described the current mix as “dull” or too safe, even saying it’s not doing enough to differentiate from other stations. Others point out that the station does play deeper cuts from different decades and could appeal to women in the demo advertisers care about most. 

When it comes to promotions, Star 94 engages with the community and leverages talent to make the mornings feel local and personable. One big recent development is the addition of “The Kevin & Taylor Show” in mornings—a popular duo from another Atlanta station that has strong ties to the community and brings warmth, stories, and local flavor to the start of the day. Audacy’s Brand Manager Emily Boldon expressed excitement about this addition, and based on listener chatter, many in the market are happy to hear familiar voices in that key time slot. 

The station has also brought new on‑air talent into afternoons with Brian Moote, a comedian and radio personality whose local connections and entertainment experience are being positioned to give listeners something fun and interactive heading home. That’s exactly the kind of energy that can make a station feel more than just a playlist—it can make it feel like part of your day. 

In terms of overall effectiveness and presentation, Star 94 still carries a recognizable brand in Atlanta, but its ratings have been middling compared to some competitors. At times, the station has lagged behind rivals in overall share, especially among younger demos, because its music mix leans older and Adult‑leaning. That’s not inherently a bad thing—just a reflection of who the station is targeting. 

Where WSTR could improve is in building a stronger, more defined identity that cuts through the noise of Atlanta’s crowded radio market. Some listeners feel the station plays it a little too safe and doesn’t always feel distinctive. The music taste of the market is diverse, and while a rhythmic lean has helped set Star apart, there’s room to push the playlist or the imaging to create more excitement rather than just comfort. 

Regarding the person leading the station, Emily Boldon was named Brand Manager in 2025, bringing more than two decades of programming and radio leadership experience across multiple formats including AC, Hot AC, Rock, and Classic Hits. Her background signals that Audacy is serious about sharpening Star 94’s strategy and elevating the brand — especially by blending heritage with fresh programming moves. 

Bottom line from Just Plain Steve: I hear a station with a strong heritage and a clear core identity, but one that’s still trying to find its strongest voice in a competitive market. Star 94 does a good job of serving its core listeners with familiar hits and community‑centric promotions, and recent talent additions in mornings and afternoons are smart moves that add personality and local connection. If the station continues to make bold moves—shaking up the music mix in ways that feel both fresh and familiar, and leaning into its new talent lineup under Emily Boldon’s leadership—it’s got a shot at deepening its connection with listeners across Atlanta.