Get to Know Joy Radio
Who We Are
Joy Radio is a prominent Christian talk and teaching radio station based in Knoxville, Tennessee. It is owned and operated by Tennessee Media Associates, Inc., led by Thomas Moffit, Jr. The station broadcasts on AM 620 with a 5,000-watt signal and is also available on FM translators at 102.5FM in Knoxville and 99.5FM in Sevierville.
Historical Timeline
1927: The station originally signed on as WNBJ, owned by Lonsdale Baptist Church, broadcasting on AM 1450.
1930: Ownership transferred to Stewart Broadcasting Corporation, and the station moved to AM 1310.
1931: The call letters changed to WROL.
1941: The station moved to its current frequency at AM 620.
1953: The station's ownership group launched WROL-TV (now WATE-TV), East Tennessee's first television station.
1971: The radio and television stations separated; the radio station became WETE.
1976: The call letters changed to WRJZ, and the station adopted a Top 40 format.
1980s: WRJZ transitioned to a Christian talk format, rebranding as "Joy 62".
Personalities of the Past
During its Top 40 era, WRJZ featured several notable personalities: • Adele Arakawa: The first female DJ in Knoxville, who broadcasted Top 40 music for five years in the late 1970s. • John Boy Isley: Later known for "The John-Boy and Billy Big Show" in Charlotte, NC. • Mark Thompson: Later part of the "Mark and Brian" show on 95.5 KLOS in Los Angeles. • Rick Kirk: A long-time Knoxville radio personality. • CP and Walker: A popular morning duo during the 1970s.
Current Programming
Today, WRJZ offers a Christian talk format with programming that includes:
• The Bob Bell Show: Hosted by Bob Bell, who has been with the station for over 30 years. The show airs weekdays from 6a to 8a and features news, weather, and inspirational content.
• Crossroads with Jenny Bushkell: Hosted by humorous speaker and Bible teacher, Jenny Bushkell, of Joy Radio for nearly 25 years, and is a show focusing on stories of hope and restoration.
• The Ministry Corner: Hosted by Joy Radio’s General Manager, Dr. Pat Polis on Mondays, and is a show highlighting notable local ministries who are being the hands and feet of Jesus in our area.
• The Church Mechanic: Hosted by Joy 620’s General Manager, Dr. Pat Polis on Thursdays, and is a show providing practical help and resources to church ministers.
• National Programing: Including "Family Talk" with Dr. James Dobson, "Insight for Living" with Chuck Swindoll, "In Touch" with Charles Stanley, "Turning Point" with David Jeremiah, "Truth for Life" with Alistair Begg, "Hope in the Night" with June Hunt, and "Focus on the Family" with Jim Daly to name a few.
For a complete list of our programing, visit our On Air page.
Community Engagement
Joy Radio is actively involved in the Knoxville community, featuring local events, ministry spotlights, and opportunities for listeners to share their stories. Our mission is to help individuals grow in their faith and navigate life's challenges through inspirational and educational programming.
GET IN TOUCH
Whether you’re just getting curious about what it means to have a relationship with Christ, or you are a seasoned believer, we’re here to help you grow in your faith.