Hip Hop FLOWs Back Into Toronto
• Stingray is proud to announce the return of CFXJ (FLOW 93-5)/Toronto — Canada’s first and only Hip Hop radio station. FLOW 93-5 was originally launched in 2001, born out of an overwhelming need — Toronto wanted a radio station that not only played Hip Hop — but was also in touch with the community and reflected its interests. During its initial 15-year run, FLOW 93-5 was instrumental in launching the careers of Drake, The Weeknd and Tory Lanez, to name a few.
Then, in 2016, FLOW 93-5 gave way to an all-throwback direction and rebranded as 93.5 The Move. Since that time, FLOW 93-5’s loyal, almost cult-like fan base has advocated for its return. Mission Accomplished.
“There has never been a better time to welcome back FLOW 93-5,” says PD Josie Fenech. “Extensive research has told us that Toronto understands FLOW 93-5 meansHip Hop, it means community and that it evokes excitement. Our core artists are not only Hip Hop’s biggest stars, they are global celebrities breaking sales records and dominating the charts; Drake, The Weeknd, Cardi B, Travis Scott, Nicki Minaj, Kendrick Lamar and Post Malone are part of our musical foundation.” And in a nod to Toronto’s extensive community of emerging artists, FLOW 93-5 is committed to providing tremendous support and exposure by dedicating an hour of programming five nights a week showcasing only artists from Toronto.
As Steve Jones, Stingray’s SVP of Brands and Content, Radio, explains to RAMP, the official relaunch of FLOW is just a formality at this point, as he said, “Over the past few months the station has morphed back to hip-hop, eliminating many of the throwbacks in the process. Today marks the full change back to 100% hip hop.” The best news is, no staff changes.