iHeartMedia Seattle Realigns Stations' Programming

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, January 19, 2016

iHeartMedia Seattle announced Tuesday that it has realigned several of its stations' programming that attracts new listeners, while also retaining each station's core listener base. Effective immediately CHR KBKS-FM will become Hot AC with the new slogan "More Music, More Variety." The morning show with Bender and Molly will continue to broadcast weekday mornings.

Rhythmic CHR KUBE-FM will evolve into CHR outlet as "Power 93.3 FM," "Seattle's New Hit Music," and will kick off playing 10,000 songs commercial free. Anchoring Power's new talent lineup will be Carla Marie & Anthony, recognized from the "Elvis Duran Show," with a fresh new morning program.

The brand KUBE will find a new frequency home on 104.9 FM and become dedicated to Rhythmic programming as "Tacoma's New Home for Hits & Hip Hop." KUBE 104.9 FM will also continue to feature Supa Sam on weekday mornings and Tiffany in afternoon drive.

Last week prior to Tuesday's announcement, Hot AC KYNW's listeners were transitioned to KBKS and it will become "ALT 102.9 FM," "Seattle/Tacoma's Rock Alternative," playing Alternative music programming. The ALT station will also welcome back Seattle air personality Harms during the afternoon drive.

"We have identified a clear path forward that retains these stations' core listeners, while also attracting new ones. These programming changes will build on the strengths of each brand and what differentiates them from one another," said Market President Kent Haehl. "These changes aren't traditional format changes; this is a pivot strategy to enable these brands to resonate quickly with both listeners and advertisers."

"This is a revolution for the Seattle market, and the success we've had with listeners to The Jet (KJR-FM) validates our strategy," added Executive VP/Programming of the West Division Andrew Jeffries. "Realigning our programming content, and boasting an influx of great talent under the leadership of radio veteran Rich Davis, we are bringing a fresh new approach to Seattle listening that will drive results."

"It's no secret that Seattle is a competitive market and these changes align our brands in a way that capitalizes on each stations strengths and gives us the best opportunity to win while providing a fresh new experience for our audience," added Senior VP/Programming Rich Davis. "Our talent, including new Power 93.3 morning team Carla Marie and Anthony , Alt. 102.9's Harms, along with 106.1's Bender and Molly and KUBE 104.9's DJ Supa Sam make this lineup not just a big win for our stations, but for our listeners in Seattle too."