Young AC (Young And Cool)
About This Format
A contemporary evolution of Adult Contemporary that sits comfortably between Mainstream AC and Hot AC, Young AC is designed to bridge the gap between familiarity and freshness. The format blends proven Mainstream AC hits that Hot AC stations already embrace with select Hot AC titles that traditional Mainstream AC outlets often avoid, creating a sound that feels current without being overly trend-driven. With a core focus on music from the early 2000s to today, Young AC targets adults ages 25–54 while maintaining strong secondary appeal to listeners 18–49. The overall presentation skews slightly younger and more energetic than Mainstream AC, yet remains broader, more polished, and more adult-focused than Hot AC, delivering a balanced, modern listening experience.
Sample Artists
Sample Songs
Adele –Rolling in the Deep
Maroon 5 –Sugar
Kelly Clarkson –Since U Been Gone
Ed Sheeran –Perfect
Dua Lipa –Don’t Start Now
Bruno Mars –Treasure
Sara Bareilles –Brave
Shawn Mendes –Stitches
P!nk –Raise Your Glass
Colbie Caillat –Bubbly
Charlie Puth –Attention
John Mayer –Waiting on the World to Change
Era Balance
2000–2009:30%
2010–2019:50%
2020–present:20%
Target Demo
Primary:Adults 25–54
Secondary:Adults 18–49