The Ford Hall Forum at Suffolk University presents DJs Charles Laquidara, Billy Costa, Julie Kramer, and Henry Santoro, with moderator John Laurenti, discussing "Radio Silence" from 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 13, at the C. Walsh Theatre, 55 Temple St., Boston.

WBCN was the original, superstar-establishing, DJ-controlled rock station. It showed that rock radio could excel when the DJs curate the music. As independent radio station WFNX is sold to Clear Channel this year, Bostonians see how rock radio has become a corporation-controlled industry. Internet and digital radio may face the same fate.

The DJs will discuss changes and the adaptations they must make in a new music-business environment. The forum will address how WBCN’s rise and fall foretold industry changes, the story behind the end of WFNX, and what the rebirth of independent rock radio might look like.

The Ford Hall Forum is the nation’s oldest free public lecture series. It promotes freedom of speech and fosters an informed and effective citizenry through events that illuminate the key issues facing our society.

The forum presents knowledgeable and thought-provoking speakers, including some of the most controversial opinion leaders of our times, in settings that facilitate frank and open debate.