Big Changes At CBS Radio Houston
CBS Radio Houston surprised more than a few people last Friday when the decision was made to flush the Top 40 format on KKHH (Hot 95.7) in favor of Adult Hits, rechristened as 95.7 The Spot, playing a bunch of hits from the ’70s, ’80s, ’90s and 2000s. As the press release breezily states, “The station is designed for listeners who need a break from the everyday stresses of life and features the most popular artists of the time, including Michael Jackson, Aerosmith, Bon Jovi, Madonna, U2, Prince and many others.”
We understand that several staffers, including APD/MD DJ Riddler, have exited as a result of the flip. We have also confirmed that longtime Hot 95.7 morning personality Sarah Pepper remains under contract with CBS Radio Houston. RAMP reached out to Sarah Frazier, SVP/Market Manager of CBS Radio Houston regarding the future on-air direction of 95.7 The Spot, and she told us, “As the station is targeting a different demographic we are looking for different on air talent that fits the format. People can send in their tapes and resumes to the online application portal for on-air at CBS Radio Houston. We will be looking to fill all dayparts ASAP!” For now, The Spot is rolling jockless.
• And there’s more — on December 15, CBS Radio Hot AC KHMX (Mix 96.5)/Houston quietly made some major personnel moves, parting ways with The Dave, Mahoney & DK Morning Show and APD/MD/midday personality Chris Jackson. The Dave, Mahoney & DK Morning Show had been with Mix since September of 2015 when they transferred in from Alternative sister KXTE (X107.5)/Las Vegas. Jackson, also a veteran of X107.5, arrived in Houston in March of 2016.
Concurrent with the departure of The Dave, Mahoney & DK Morning Show, co-host Daena “DK” Kramer (left) announced she’s seeking new opportunities separately. DK told RAMP, “I’ve had a lot of success in the last seven years as part of an amazing show where I’ve learned a ton and I found what I’m truly passionate about — doing great radio. The amazing experiences and the great relationships I’ve built over 10 years with CBS Radio will stay with me forever. But starting fresh is exciting, and I’m eager to move onward and upward in my career with a new team. I can’t wait to explore everything the future holds!” DK can be reached at 702-290-8668 or DaenaKramer@gmail.com. Chris Jackson will be announcing his next gig soon — until then he can be reached at djchrisjax@gmail.com.
• KHMX is currently looking for a new Program Director. Interested candidates are urged to read up on the gig and apply online via the CBS Radio Careers Portal of Destiny™ (Ref#: 27019).