I happened to notice WLS-FM has been playing 1970s hit music a little more frequently. From what I can tell, the core point in time is the 1980s.

I've heard a few 1990s titles as well and it's logical. The Classic Hit format must move forward because if it doesn't, it will be stuck with listeners over 65 which most advertisers do not desire.

Is it possible this station is battling against others in the market?

WRME-FM 87.7 lives in the 1960s and 1970s. Yes, they dip their musical toe into the 1980s as well.

WLIT-FM 93.9 has decided to mellow out, if you will. Contemporary music such as Abba, Seals & Crofts and Toto are aimed for a specific audience. WLS-FM wants a huge slice of that pie.

WDRV-FM 97.1 A Classic Rock station which plays core artists such as Elton John, Bon Jovi, AC/DC, Fleetwood Mac, Aerosmith, Zeppelin, Tom Petty, etc. Much of this music can be heard on WLS-FM with the exception of the song length.

I submit WSHE 100.3 just may factor into this equation. There are times when WLS-FM really rocks. Two or three songs strung together without any on-air identifier, it would seem a rock station is being heard. As soon as one of those burnt to a crisp Saturday Night Fever, Bee Gees songs come on, it's over.

Radio listening has changed with many working from home. Some companies will keep it that way. Less people driving means less radio time as well.