Phoenix Embraces Gello & J Steele
• Desert Valley Media Group (DVMG) Hot AC KMVA (Hot 97.5 & 103.9)/Phoenix makes excellent use of resources already in the building to fill its morning opening, as Gello unplugs from afternoon drive over on sister KKFR (Power 98.3 & 96.1) to anchor the all-new Gello Show on KMVA.
“I’ve dreamt about the opportunity to reclaim my position in the realm of morning radio,” said Gello, who got his radio start as an intern on KKFR and went on to enjoy morning drive success on Beasley Classic Hip Hop WMGC (105.1 The Bounce)/Detroit before returning to KKFR in 2021. “And now, fate has smiled upon me, giving me the golden opportunity to wake up the slumbering Valley with good energy and gusto, each and every morning! Reoccupying the coveted morning drive slot in my cherished hometown fills me with unparalleled excitement! Moreover, I’m blessed with the unwavering support of DMVG, a media powerhouse renowned for its excellence. Truly, life is good,” he said.
Director of Operations Mike Gallagher commented, “With an infectious energy and magnetic personality, Gello will captivate Phoenix every morning, igniting a fire within our listeners and delivering an unforgettable start to their day. Gello is the best in the business as it pertains to delivering social media engagement for the station and The Gello Show, which is a pre-requisite to anyone looking to join the airstaff at Desert Valley Media.”
Stepping up to fill Gello’s sizeable shoes in afternoon drive on KKFR is yet another in-house talent — Jonathan “J” Steele (left), who was named PD of KKFR in March, transitioning from the PD post at AGM’s KKSS (Kiss 97.3) and KKRG (Mix 105.1)/Albuquerque, NM. Like his colleague Gello, Steele also worked at 105.1 The Bounce/Detroit as APD/afternoon talent, and he also programmed Martz Communications’ WAMO/Pittsburgh.
“J Steele is ready for the challenge,” Gallagher tells RAMP. “He’s a guy who understands that radio, now more than ever, is about the combination of great music and personality between the records. I’m a fan, Phoenix will be soon as well.”
