In 1977, KOB 770 AM was already a major radio station in Albuquerque and one of the most powerful in the Southwest. It operated as a clear-channel station with a 50,000-watt signal, allowing it to broadcast over long distances, even reaching parts of neighboring states. KOB at that time focused on news, weather, and talk radio, which made it a go-to source for Albuquerque listeners seeking local and national news. It had moved away from its university roots by this time, establishing itself as a significant commercial station in the region.