In a monumental celebration of South Dakota’s rich musical heritage, KTEQ, the student-run radio station of South Dakota Mines, is set to make history. This October, KTEQ will be inducted into the South Dakota Rock and Rollers Hall of Fame during a prestigious ceremony at The District in Sioux Falls on Saturday, October 11. This accolade recognizes KTEQ’s pivotal role as a creative hub for local artists and students, marking its influential contributions to the state’s vibrant rock music scene.
Since its inception in 1971, KTEQ 91.3 FM has been a beacon of artistic freedom in the Black Hills, ardently broadcasting an eclectic array of genres such as jazz, punk, hip hop, and indie rock. The station stands out for its unique operational model — managed and run entirely by students — making it a fertile ground for emerging talent and underground music, thereby reinforcing South Dakota’s position on the national music map.
The Rock Weekend Unveiled
The induction coincides with South Dakota’s biggest rock weekend, which promises a thunderous start with the much-anticipated Battle of the Bands on Friday, October 10. Music enthusiasts across the region are encouraged to partake in the festivities, which will honor the incredible talent that South Dakota continues to nurture and showcase.
The Power of People and Community
The community’s burgeoning support for KTEQ is evident as alumni, local residents, and supporters rally to bolster the station’s mission of connecting the Black Hills to the wider music world. The induction serves not just as recognition but also as an opportunity to strengthen KTEQ’s legacy. “This recognition is more than just an honor—it’s an opportunity to reflect on what KTEQ has meant to so many and to envision what it can become,” stated Jason Ward, a campus advisor.
The Key Figures Behind KTEQ’s Success
The prestigious Hall of Fame honor will be accepted by a group of individuals whose dedication and passion have steered KTEQ across decades: Caleigh Copenhaver, a junior electrical engineering major and the station manager; Jason Ward; Greg Carey, founder of the Tech Educational Radio Council; Gary Brown, the station’s first manager; and Bruce Kraft, one of its first DJs.
Jason Ward
The station’s digital presence ensures that its reach extends beyond state lines, with live streaming available at www.KTEQ.org. Enthusiasts worldwide can experience the station’s distinctive programming and keep abreast of its future endeavors via its website or social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
A Legacy in the Making
The induction into the South Dakota Rock and Rollers Hall of Fame underscores the enduring impact of KTEQ’s mission to fuel creative collaboration. As Caleigh Copenhaver passionately noted, “It’s incredibly motivating to see people reconnecting with the station and taking notice of what we’re building. When listeners and alumni share that energy back with us, it makes every bit of effort worthwhile.”
This historic recognition is a significant milestone, inviting reflection on South Dakota’s role as a nurturing ground for musical innovation and a call to envision the promising future of KTEQ and its far-reaching impact on the world of music.