Mathews Named APD/Middays, 97 Rock/Buffalo

• Cumulus Classic Rock WGRF (97 Rock)/Buffalo, NY welcomes John Mathews aboard as APD/midday personality. Mathews earns the transfer and upgrade from his current afternoon drive spot on Classic Rock sister WQHZ (Z102.3)/Erie, PA, but will retain a connection there as APD. Mathews has previously served as an OM, PD and APD in markets including Baltimore and North Carolina’s Outer Banks.

Jim Riley, VP/Market Manager, Cumulus Buffalo-Erie, said, “I’ve worked with John Mathews for many years in Baltimore and nearby Erie and know his work very well. He’s like an encyclopedia when it comes to 97 Rock’s music and the people who made it. John has an incredible ability to weave together music and fascinating stories about the artists. For the listener, it’s a celebration of the greatest music every recorded and exactly what 97 Rock listeners expect during the workday. Mathews loves Buffalo and really appreciates the responsibility that he has to the Buffalo radio audience as he becomes a part of 97 Rock.”

97 Rock PD Joe Russo commented, “John’s programming background and extensive knowledge of Classic Rock made him the perfect choice to carry on the tradition of exceptional storytelling and passion for the music we have at 97 Rock. He has a deep reverence for the music, and even though he’s a 30-year veteran of radio, he comes in every day with a youthful exuberance like he’s playing these songs for the first time.”

Mathews remarked, “I’ve always believed that 97 Rock is one of the greatest Classic Rock stations in the world and it’s a dream to be part of their team. 97 Rock is a world-class radio station, and I’m honored to be a part of their stable of legendary DJs.” He added, “I’m quickly learning why they call Buffalo ‘the City of Good Neighbors’ — I’ve been welcomed with open arms by 97 Rock listeners, and I’m proud to now call Buffalo home.”