Makeover Day At SummitMedia Richmond
• UPDATED: Major changes took place Friday inside the SummitMedia broadcast complex in Richmond, VA, resulting in the launch of a new radio station and the rebranding of another in a campaign that was informally dubbed “Operation Ruckus In Richmond.” Let’s start with new station, ’80s-based Classic Hits Awesome 100.9, “Totally ’80s and More,” built on the foundation of former Adult Hits WJSR (Star 100.9), which had been stunting as “Santa 100.9” since before Christmas. Core artists include ’80s mainstays like Madonna, Journey, Duran Duran and Michael Jackson, etc., along with a handful of select hits from the ’90s and ’00s.
Across the hall, Hot AC WURV (103.7 Play) has re-branded as 103.7 Your Variety, playing the “Best of 2K and Today,” featuring hits from current artists like Dua Lipa, Shawn Mendes, Ed Sheeran, Maroon 5 and more, skillfully blended with the biggest hits of the 2000s, including Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga, Adele and Katy Perry.
“The great thing about these two stations is that they work in synergy with each other,” said Market Manager Bob Willoughby. “From Boomers to Gen X’ers to Millennials, we know that these songs will recall fond memories and offer incredible music that is as relevant today as it was when it first came out.” SummitMedia EVP of Programming Randy Chase commented, “Our consumers want and need an escape and that’s what both stations deliver. Together, these two stations strategically align our us to super serve the Richmond audience.”
OM/PD Melissa Chase is now rolling solo in mornings on the new 103.7 Your Variety as her longtime co-host Jack Lauterback exits. On Air with Ryan Seacrest takes over the midday slot on WURV, followed by Jason Paige in afternoons. Awesome 100.9 will add its own air talent later this month.
• Pictured, (l-r): Bob Willoughby, production wizard Logan Nardo, Melissa Chase, Promotions pro Joe Amado, Randy Chase and Rick Thomas, Brand & Content Leader for SummitMedia’s Top 40, Hot AC and AC formats.
