Seattle Radio Rumble
• Lots of old-fashioned radio drama transpired in Seattle on Monday with multiple format flips spaced uncomfortably close together — the action started with Entercom, owner of KKWF (100.7 The Wolf), taking steps to eliminate any intramural format duplication by flipping former CBS Radio Country rival KMPS to Soft AC as The New 94.1 The Sound. KMPS had been stunting with Christmas music for the past two weeks amid rumors of an impending format change.
“The New 94.1 The Sound will provide the Seattle audience with a unique and relaxing radio experience that is curated with the Puget Sound listener in mind,” said Pat Paxton, Entercom’s President of Programming. “We are excited to fill this void in radio in Seattle and offer avid music fans a fresh new sound they can enjoy at work or as they go about their day.”
• Concurrent with the flip, we have confirmed that KMPS PD Kenny Jay is still in the building and can be reached at kenny.jay@entercom.com. We have also confirmed that KMPS morning duo Seth Hughes and Brynn “Cat” Dubois have exited, and midday talent Deanna Lee is moving back to her former midday shift on The Wolf.
• Minutes Entercom pulled the plug on KMPS, Hubbard Radio jumped headfirst into the Seattle Country fray by flipping KVRQ (Rock 98.9) to Country 98.9. “We at Hubbard Radio Seattle are looking forward to winning the Country war in Seattle,” said Marc Kaye, VP/Market Manager of Hubbard Radio Seattle. “With a live and local Hubbard Radio mantra, it’s going to be a whole lot of fun building one of America’s great Country radio stations.” He added, “Now we are ramping up on staff hires, including a Program Director.”
• Veteran talent coach Steve Reynolds is now spearheading the search for a morning show for the new Country 98. If you — or someone you love — are looking for a fresh and exciting morning opportunity, no matter what size market you are in, Mr. Reynolds would love to hear from you. Naturally, any conversations will be kept confidential. Qualified professionals may contact Reynolds at steve@reynoldsgroupradio.com.
Now, The Downside: Downsizing
• As a result of these format flips, KVRQ PD Dave Numme is now a free agent, as is APD/midday personality Kim Monroe and afternoon drive talent Jeetz.
Numme (left) was the inaugural PD of Rock 98.9, joining the station in June 2016, three months after it launched. Numme also holds the distinction of being the first PD of KUFO/Portland, OR and ran the joint from 1991-2006. He also programmed KITS (Live 105)/San Francisco from 2006-2009 and was VP of Programming for CBS Radio’s Rock and Alternative formats. His career also includes stints at KGON/Portland, KRQR/San Francisco and KSJO/San Jose.
Numme tells RAMP, “We did some great work together on Rock 98.9 and I’m very proud of our team and what we have accomplished together. I’m now looking for another programming position in Rock or Alternative. In the meantime I’m going to enjoy the holidays and be thankful for everything.” Numme can be reached at numme.dave@gmail.com; contact Kim Monroe at 440-281-2731 or kimba224@gmail.com; and speak with Jeetz at 253-576-7573 or jeetzradio@hotmail.com.
