Country 101.1 — CKBY-FM

Country 101.1 (CKBY-FM) is a commercial regional radio station based in Smiths Falls, Ontario, broadcasting on 101.1 FM to the National Capital Region. Owned by Rogers Sports & Media, it has been on the air since 1969 (originally launching as CJET-FM) and broadcasts contemporary country music in English for adults aged 25 to 54. From 2020 to 2023, the station operated under the CityNews 101.1 brand with a news/talk format.

The broadcast lineup relies on a strong morning show duo, Robin & PJ, who build genuine connection with listeners without forced hype. Midday and afternoon slots are covered by Jesse Tieman and Sam McDaid. The grid regularly features listener call-ins and contests, seamlessly integrated into the format.

Musically, the station focuses on top commercial country acts like Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, and Lainey Wilson. Tracks like "I Can't Love You Anymore" and "Be By You" stay in heavy rotation.

In the Ottawa region, the station reaches hundreds of thousands of listeners monthly. The team's track record is backed by CCMA Awards: in 2019, the station won Country Radio Station of the Year (Large Market), its special "Girl Power Hour" took home Country Program or Special of the Year, and former Program Director Amanda Kingsland earned Music Director of the Year (Large Market) four years in a row.

Compared to its main competitor, Bell Media's Pure Country 94, Country 101.1 benefits visibly from Rogers' network resources—delivering stronger artist access, solid syndication, and a tight music mix that avoids straying into niche underground Americana.

On the positive side, it offers a crisp FM signal across the region and quality artist interviews. On the downside, it carries the typical commercial network traits: frequent ad breaks and a tight, predictable playlist.

Quick Facts

Frequency: 101.1 FM