Back to the Future of Rock and Roll: A 97X Retro Rock Reunion

Music fans and local history enthusiasts are invited to relive the sounds, stories, and cultural impact of one of the region’s most iconic radio stations at Back to the Future of Rock and Roll: A 97X Retro Rock Reunion on Saturday, June 27, 2026, with doors opening at 6:30pm.
In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary and the nation’s role as the birthplace of rock and roll, the event highlights the rise of modern alternative rock in the 1980s and 1990s, sparked in part by the small but influential Oxford, Ohio station WOXY 97X. The station’s pop‑culture legacy was cemented when Dustin Hoffman’s character in Rain Man famously repeated its tagline: “97X, Bam! The future of rock and roll.”
The reunion brings together beloved 97X personalities and staff for an evening of stories, surprises, and behind‑the‑scenes memories. Featured guests include Steve Baker, the unmistakable voice of 97X for two decades; Jen Dalton, former intern and now co‑host of Local 12’s Good Morning Cincinnati; Matt “Sledge” Waller, known for his work at 97X, WNKU, and Inhailer Radio; and Dave Tellman and Damian Dotterweich, former DJs and co‑hosts of the fan‑favorite podcast 97X – Rumblings from the Big Bush.
Whether you were a devoted listener or simply love the history of rock and roll, the 97X Retro Rock Reunion promises an unforgettable night of nostalgia, energy, and storytelling.