The station broadcast from the basement of Russell Court Complex on Belfast's Lisburn Road.
BCR was launched at 7:30 a.m. on 6 April 1990 with Rick Nugent who was the first presenter, the first song was "Feet of a Dancer" by Maira O'Connell.
In 1995, the word 'community' in the title was replaced for 'city' in a further attempt to distance the station from its community roots which had failed to interest audience.
In contrast with its forerunner, Citybeat became a huge success and is now one of the most popular stations in Northern Ireland.
BCR presenters prior to the 1996 relaunch included Rick Nugent, Maurice Jay, Mary Johnston, Eddie McDermott Davy Cunningham, Stuart Robinson, Owen Beers, Mal Reynolds, Noel Hyndman, Phil Doyle, Lawrence John, David Johnston, Lisa Flavelle, Olive Melville, Kenny Tosh, Paul Orr, Ricky K, Stephen Nolan, Denise Watson and Davy Cash.