Houston’s Vibe Comes Alive
• Over Labor Day weekend, Houston’s 90.9 KTSU Public Radio, based at Texas Southern University formally launched Urban Alternative The Vibe, featuring a mix of Hip Hop, R&B and Neo-Soul and targeting Millennials and the Gen Z demographic from 18-44. The Vibe is under the command of Content Director Madd Hatta, a Texas Radio Hall of Famer, best known for his 20-year run as host of the Madd Hatta Morning Show across the street on Radio One’s KBXX (97.9 The Box). Yesterday, The Vibe introduced its elite team of air personalities — all seasoned market veterans. (Pictured, l-r): Rob G The General in mornings, Amir Diamond in afternoons, Michele McKnight in evenings and mixer Steve Nice, late night Saturdays.
• Rob G The General (left) is best known as the mixing muscle behind the Madd Hatta Morning Show on 97.9 The Box (2004-2020) and as host of The Boom Juice Crew on Radio One’s KROI (Boom 92). “I’m enthused to be a part of this new direction, this new vibe that is taking place on the campus of Texas Southern University,” Rob G said. “I’m looking forward to presenting radio in a fresh and unique way!”
• Amir Diamond (right) is the son of Kandi Eastman of Radio One’s KMJQ (Majic 102.1) and MC Spice (The Wendy Williams Experience). He began his broadcasting career in 2011 and has worked at 97.9 The Box and KROI (RadioNow 92.1). “I’m super excited to be joining The Vibe, powered by KTSU 90.9FM Radio,” Diamond said. “It’s a dope concept that’s young, fun and fresh! I’ve worked, attended summer camps and had my first college experience at Texas Southern University, so it feels amazing to be back home on the Tiger Walk. LET’S GO!”
• Houston native Michele McKnight (left) has worked at KKHH, KRBE, KFNC, KHJK, KMJQ and KBXX/Houston. She’s also worked in San Antonio and in the Midwest. McKnight credits Madd Hatta and Shelley Wade, the official voice of The Vibe, as her career influencers. “I’m really excited to be joining the team at the Vibe! New and fresh energy is always a beautiful thing, and I’m looking forward to playing a role in the greatness that KTSU 90.9FM already brings to the city of Houston.”
• “It’s an exciting time for TSU Radio!” said Steve Nice (above, right), who previously worked on the DL Hughley Radio Show at Service Urban KKDA (K104)/Dallas. “The Vibe is definitely what’s needed not only for our TSU/3rd Ward community, but for the city of Houston. This was the first station to play my mixes on the air while I was attending school/playing football. It gave me the drive to continue radio from that point forward. It’s only right that I give my talents back to the school that gave me a shot!”
GM Ernest Walker said, “The Vibe’s new lineup of jocks and personalities is a recipe for a success. We at KTSU are excited to evolve and serve our entire community by engaging a younger demographic and by using KTSU The Choice as a blueprint for quality programming. I’m excited for our new Vibe team to change the game for Houston radio, all while keeping our nearly 50-year legacy of excellence alive.”
