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Dublin super-pirate Q102 was relaunched as ‘Super Q’ in the summer of 1988, just a few months before the vast majority of pirates left the airwaves for good. The new format was introduced by US radio consultant Bill Cunningham, who had previously revamped Sunshine Radio as ‘Sunshine Hot Hits 101’ in 1986. Following the closure of Energy 103 in March 1988, Q102 and Sunshine became the largest and most successful Dublin pirates, capitalising on advertising revenue before the radio sector was legalised. Q102 closed down on 30th December.
This recording is from the last autumn of Q102’s four-year stint and features a flavour of late-night programing. First up is Tom Brown ending his show before midnight. He is followed by Mike Duggan on the overnight slot until 0600. Given the time of night, there is little talk and no adverts, but arguably the sound is less engaging than Q102 before the rebranding, when the station had an iconic jingle package and friendly on-air style.
The tape runs from 2345-0115 on 16th and 17th October 1988 and was made from 102 FM. Thanks to John Breslin for the donation.