Bluelight Special In Rochester

There’s been a dramatic change in the radio landscape in Rochester, NY, as a new Urban player has now been introduced into the equation — at 8pm ET last night, Bluelight Communications lit the fuse to launch 105.5 The Beat (W288CS).

Bluelight is co-owned by veteran record industry execs Lester Pace and Manny Bella, and they have wisely brought in seasoned programmer Mickey Johnson to run the show as Bluelight’s Director Of Programming. Among Johnson’s first moves — he secured the Premiere-syndicated The Breakfast Club for mornings and hired Pamela Anise, former PD/midday host at iHeartMedia Urban WUBT (101.1 The Beat)/Nashville as APD/midday personality.

Johnson (left) was most recently Brand Manager for Townsquare Urban AC WTUG/Tuscaloosa, AL. Before that he spent two years as OM/PD of Radio One Urban WHHL (Hot 104) and Urban AC WFUN (Foxy 95.5)/St. Louis. Johnson began his career as a Promotions Asst. at WHQT (Hot 105) in his hometown of Miami, and later programmed WHJX (Hot 101.5)/Jacksonville, but he’s probably best known for his 11-year run with the station he helped launch in 1996, Cox Media Group’s WBHJ (95.7 Jamz)/Birmingham, AL.

Johnson is now looking to fill afternoons and nights — he’s especially interested in securing some local flare for the night slot, if you catch his drift… Interested candidates are invited to send your stuff to MickeyJ@1055thebeat.com.