98.5 KFOX, a familiar Bay Area classic rock station, abruptly switched to a country format after an ownership change, moving its classic rock programming to digital subchannels and streaming.

On July 22, 2026, at precisely noon PT, the familiar classic rock melodies of 98.5 KFOX (KUFX) faded from the analog airwaves, replaced by the twang of "Bay Country." For Bay Area commuters accustomed to the rock station's presence, the change was abrupt, signaling an end to a musical era on the 98.5 FM frequency that stretched back to 1971 with its predecessor, KOME.

This shift wasn't a sudden decision but the culmination of recent business maneuvers within the Bay Area's radio landscape. Connoisseur Media, which had only acquired KUFX from Bonneville International on May 15, 2026, orchestrated the format flip. The move was a strategic play to accommodate Connoisseur's existing country format, "Bay Country," previously broadcast on 94.5 FM. The 94.5 FM license, belonging to KBAY, is being sold to K-LOVE Inc. for a reported $2 million, with FCC approval anticipated in early fall 2026.

Connoisseur Media's Senior Vice President of Programming, Keith Dakin, framed the change as an embrace of a growing market strategy, stating, "2026 has been a landmark year for country music, making this the ideal time to move KBAY to a stronger signal. The San Francisco Bay Area has long been underserved by a major country station, and we're ready to fill that void.” Regional Operations Manager Brian "Fig" Figula echoed this sentiment, adding that "Expanding Bay Country to 98.5 is an investment in both our listeners and our advertising partners."

While the classic rock format of KFOX is no longer on the main 98.5 FM dial, it hasn't vanished entirely. Listeners can still find it on 98.5 KUFX-HD2 (San Jose), 99.7 KMVQ-HD3 (San Francisco), and via streaming. However, for many, the sudden switch felt like a loss. Alex Harmon, a KFOX promotions staffer of nine years, shared on social media and with the press, "Today marks a farewell to 98.5 KFOX as we knew it... Honored to have been around KFOX for about 9 years of its 35 year legacy rockin' the San Jose and Bay Area airwaves." Social media reactions reflected a sentiment of disappointment.

The consequence of these decisions includes the departure of several long-time KFOX on-air personalities, such as Tim Jeffreys, who logged nearly 19 cumulative years at the station. While Connoisseur Media indicates they will "explore options for talent later this year," the immediate impact on these broadcasters and their loyal following is evident. For those driving through the Bay Area, the change on the 98.5 FM dial means a new sound, and a poignant reminder of the constant evolution of the city's sonic landscape.