The end of the alternative rock era

Radio in general has undergone a significant metamorphisis since the demise of WBCN in the summer of 2009. hardcore output from such acts, as Papa Roach, Disturbed, and System Of A Down has seemed to disappear congruously. Though somewhat shy of a golden radio age, such a syncrony denotes attention. WFNX surrendered its 101.7 spot on the dial in the summer of 2012 all but ending alternative rock's airwave exposure (It broadcasts exclusively on its website). Major record labels have dropped alternative artists (such as Wolf Gang's departure from Atlantic in 2012 as he refused the label's request to create more pop friendly material) from their rosters, thus further distancing the trend from earshot. Just in the past several months, three boston radio stations adopted dance formats, the most recent being the former all talk 96.9 WTTK. 101.7 became 'Evolution 101.7 It all started in the mid summer of 2012 when the long running oldies source signed off providing the 103.3 frequency and the WODS call letters (with which it still utilizes but now dubbing itself 'The Amp') with dance/pop that seems to have readily spawned two immediate competitors. Alternative rock hasn't died but it is forced to compete in a marginalized environment. It's reign and longevity in such a volatile market was considerable and commendable. Eventually however, it could no longer survive the frequently fickle major radio markets. Perhaps the alternative rock audience became generally less marketable (e.g. older) prompting stations to target younger listeners who may more often frequent dance clubs and perhaps prove a better demographic consumer for advertising revenue.