WBSY 98.5 FM

WBSY 98.5 FM – Bryson City’s Heartfelt Soundtrack of Americana and Country

In the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, WBSY 98.5 FM broadcasts a compelling musical mix that resonates with the soul of Western North Carolina. Licensed to Bryson City and transmitting from 100 Old Sawmill Road, this community-oriented FM station has become a beloved destination for fans of Americana, Bluegrass, Country, Folk, and Southern Rock, cultivating a uniquely regional soundtrack rooted in tradition and storytelling.

Known to listeners simply as Y98.5 Country, WBSY embraces a programming philosophy captured perfectly in a line popularized by country artist Trace Adkins: the station plays “songs about lovin’ and livin’, good-hearted women, family and God.” With the ethos of Faith, Family, and Freedom at its core, the station serves not only as a music provider but as a cultural voice for listeners who cherish values, heritage, and the narrative depth of roots music.

A Blend of Tradition and Regional Flavor

While many commercial radio outlets focus on chart-topping hits or syndicated formats, WBSY places an emphasis on authenticity. Its playlist spans classic and contemporary strands of American roots music — from down-home bluegrass and pickin’ folk ballads to the twang of country and the grit of Southern rock. This genre-spanning approach creates a listening experience that feels both familiar and refreshingly distinct from mainstream broadcast fare.

Despite being a low-power FM station — a category of broadcasters defined by smaller coverage areas focused on local communities — WBSY has carved out a niche among fans who appreciate music that reflects the rhythms and values of rural Appalachia and beyond.

Community and Connectivity

Serving Bryson City and surrounding Swain County, WBSY plays a role in fostering local identity. Small-market stations like WBSY — often volunteer-supported and deeply rooted in their communities — stand apart in an increasingly consolidated radio landscape, offering something deeply local and personally meaningful to their audience.

WBSY also maintains a digital presence through its official website, where listeners can learn more about programming, events, and the station’s mission to keep traditional music alive and vibrant for new generations.

Looking Ahead

As music tastes evolve and media consolidation reshapes broadcast radio, stations like WBSY 98.5 FM remain anchors for listeners drawn to authenticity and community connection. Its commitment to roots-based music and local values ensures that its signal — both over the airwaves and online — continues to be a source of enjoyment and cultural cohesion in Western North Carolina and beyond.