KKYX
| Company type | Commercial radio station |
|---|---|
| Industry | Radio broadcasting |
| Founded | 1926 |
| Headquarters | San Antonio , United States |
| Products | Classic country music radio programming, sports broadcasting |
| Owner | Cox Media Group |
KKYX operates on the 680 kHz AM frequency as a commercial radio station licensed to San Antonio, Texas. The station, under the ownership of Cox Media Group, delivers a classic country music format, highlighting country hits spanning from the 1950s through the 1990s. Additionally, KKYX broadcasts live play-by-play coverage of the San Antonio Missions baseball team, part of the Texas League (Minor League Baseball). Its studios are situated on Data Point Drive in Northwest San Antonio, close to the South Texas Medical Center.
During daylight hours, KKYX transmits at 50,000 watts with a non-directional signal. Given that 680 AM is designated as a clear channel frequency, nighttime operations require reducing power to 10,000 watts and switching to a directional antenna system employing a four-tower array to prevent interference. The transmitter facility is located off FM471 in Medina County, approximately 10 miles west of Downtown San Antonio. Programming is also available via an FM translator, K285EU, broadcasting at 104.9 MHz with 250 watts in Mendoza.
History
KKYX began broadcasting in the fall of 1926 under the original call sign KCGM as a modest 10-watt outlet offering limited content. By December of that year, its schedule expanded to include daily weather reports, music requests, and traffic updates. In an effort to support local tourism branding San Antonio as "America's Playground," owner Robert Bridge changed the station's call letters to KTAP in December 1926.
Over time, the station underwent several call sign changes including KABC, KGBS, KENS, and KBAT before settling on KKYX on September 4, 1972. Since adopting this identifier, it has consistently featured a country music format and has played an influential role in promoting South Texas country musicians. Throughout the 1970s and early 1980s, KKYX was recognized as one of the top ten country music stations across the nation.
A prominent figure in its history is former morning host Jerry King, who was inducted into the Country DJ Hall of Fame. King served at KKYX for 43 years before retiring in 2018 after an extensive broadcasting career spanning 53 years.
Coverage area
The broadcast reach of KKYX encompasses a broad segment of southern Texas, covering both the San Antonio and Austin radio markets along with regions near Victoria, Texas. Its Grade B signal further extends into the Corpus Christi and Houston areas. The station estimates its listening audience spans roughly 100 counties.