Atom Smasher ready to shake things up at Mix 96.5 KHMX + Jagger Mafia returns to 102.1 The Edge

Atom Smasher says he's older, wiser, fatter, a father and ready to get back on Houston radio's Mix 96.5 KHMX

UPDATE APRIL 15, 2016
Atom Smasher lands mornings at 102.1 The Edge Dallas

UPDATE JUNE 27, 2015
Mix 96.5 KHMX drops 'The Atom Smasher Morning Show'

Shawnda McNeal & Atom Smasher (Mix 96.5 KHMX)

The New Year marks the start of new morning radio shows around the Houston radio dial and one starting this week is a familiar name to 104.1 listeners.

Tattooed ex-KRBE morning/afternoon/night jock Atom Smasher is back from a nearly eight year absence from the Houston radio waves, but this time he's down the dial at his former station's competitor, Mix 96.5 KHMX.

"Houston is missing that young, sorta cool (at least we think) morning show," Smasher tells mikemcguff.com

Smasher, who admits he's older, wiser, fatter and now a father, says he is bringing new perspective to his show.

"We will talk about our kids but never in a cheesy doting parental way," Smasher reveals. "We laugh and most of our stories involve our kids doing inappropriate things. You will find 37-year-old Atom is a bit different from 20 something Atom."

After being fired from 104 KRBE's morning show in 2006 (he was Sam Malone's replacement), Atom Smasher has worked to get back to Houston morning radio.

"Houston is my home away from home," Smasher said. "I grew up in South Louisiana, but when I worked here, I developed relationships that tied me to this city forever. One being my wife who is from Kingwood. We were married here in 2005 and are currently bunking with her parents. Pray for us."

After his KRBE departure, Smasher left the Bayou City to host afternoons at Dallas Top 40 powerhouse 106.1 KISS FM KHKS.

"We were there for a couple of years, and had our first son Ryder," Smasher said. "Boom, Clear Channel lowers the boom and I get whacked in a nation wide jock massacre."

But Smasher's fortunes were about to turn for the better when he got a call from a mom and pop owned station in Evansville, IN. Smasher admits he had never heard of Hot 96 WSTO-FM but was anxious to get back to mornings. You might have heard of the people he was replacing too.

"I ended up taking the job left by Brad Booker and Sarah Pepper both of which had moved to Hot 95.7 in Houston," Smasher told me. "Strange huh?"

Even stranger, for those Houston radio listeners in the know, Booker ended up working on the Mix 96.5 morning show with Smasher's former co-host Maria Todd.

In 2008, Smasher met his current radio partner, Shawnda McNeal, and says he immediately wanted to work with her.

"She's funny, unique, a little crazy and totally vibes with me like no one else," Smasher gushes. "She is from Southern Ohio and stems from a family tree where grandma actually stole all their Christmas presents from Sears on year."

Now paired with McNeal, Smasher is hoping to steal the Houston morning radio ratings.

"When I got the call from CBS [KHMX's parent company] a few months ago, I jumped on it," Smasher said. "I was ready to come back and I hope I never have to leave again. We're ready to shake things up and couldn't be more thrilled about the opportunity given to us by CBS Houston. They believe in our show and we're ready to make 2014 our year!"

So how did he think he did on Monday's debut?

"While I think it was pretty good for a first day, I'm never satisfied with anything so I think it could've been better of course," admits Smasher.

On a personal note, I always thought Smasher was a great talent. I remember loving his KRBE night show and I'm not exactly a top 40 kind of guy. In fact, I had friends who were way more KLOL listeners at the time, admit they listened to KRBE back then just to hear Smasher crack open the microphone.

Sounds like KHMX is about to mix up the morning drive in a big way.

As I blogged last weekend, Houston will get another new morning show. The Breakfast Club will air on 93.7 the Beat later this month.

And back in Smasher's old stomping grounds of Dallas-Fort Worth is the return of The Jagger Mafia morning show on 102.1 The Edge KDGE-FM this week.

The Jagger Mafia morning show reunites original members Chris Jagger, Mondo Mike Vasquez and Jasmine Sadry.

"As much fun as it was to do other formats, The Edge is where I started and it's really exciting to come back," said Jagger in a statement sent to mikemcguff.com. "It will be great to do what I love with the people I care most about at the station that first welcomed me to Dallas."

The Jagger Mafia morning show was last heard on The Edge in 2006.

UPDATE APRIL 15, 2016
Atom Smasher lands mornings at 102.1 The Edge Dallas

Atom Smasher lands mornings at 102.1 The Edge Dallas

UPDATE NOVEMBER 10, 2016
Atom Smasher causing controversy at Dallas' 102.1 The Edge KDGE

After Mix 96.5 KHMX, Atom Smasher moves to Dallas' 102.1 The Edge KDGE

After being let go from MIX 96.5 KHMX's morning gig last summer, Atom Smasher is returning to Dallas where he previously went after leaving 104.1 KRBE. Last time Smasher worked at 106.1 KISS FM, this time it's sister station 102.1 The Edge KDGE.

I know I'm no radio expert, but Atom working in alternative makes way more since than him working in Top 40 in my opinion. This just makes more sense to me. Plus, he told me he is a big fan of alternative rock.

Here is the press release IHeartMedia DFW sent me:

Former co-host Shawnda McNeal & Atom Smasher 

Dallas, Texas – April 15, 2016 – 102.1 The Edge KDGE-FM announced today that long time Texan radio host Atom Smasher will take over mornings on 102.1 The Edge with The Atom Smasher Show, beginning Monday, May 2, 2016.

The Atom Smasher Show will feature host Atom Smasher weekday mornings on 102.1 The Edge from 6-10:00 a.m. Additional co-hosts will be announced soon.

“I’m so excited to have Atom join the EDGE team,” said Jay Shannon, Program Director for KDGE-FM. “Atom has a winning track record, including his time here in Dallas, and will be a big part of improving KDGE’s market position. He’s creative, extremely entertaining and has an exceptional work ethic. I look forward to seeing Atom’s "energy" on the station!"

"I've wanted to make the move to rock radio for some time,” said Smasher. “This opportunity is huge and I'm really ready to get going on the Edge and do what I love to do."

“We are thrilled to add Atom to the Edge lineup,” says Patrick Davis, Senior Vice President of Programming. “This will be a big win for the loyal Edge fans and the Dallas / Ft. Worth metroplex!”

Atom began his career in Baton Rouge and New Orleans before making the big jump to KRBE Houston in 1998 where he spent 8 years hosting nights, afternoons and eventually mornings. He then did a 2 year stint at KHKS Dallas, 5 years at WSTO Evansville, IN, and most recently 18 months at KHMX Houston.

102.1 The Edge is a leading media outlet in the Dallas market and its programming and content are available across multiple platforms, including its broadcast station; online via its branded digital site; mobile; and social, with nationwide listening through iHeartRadio, the all-in-one streaming music and live radio service – with its more than 800 million downloads, 80 million registered users and more than 75 million social media followers across the Network. Fans can listen to 102.1 The Edge on the station’s website, kdge.com, as well as on iHeartRadio.

About 102.1 The Edge:
102.1 The Edge is the DFW station offering the Dallas / Fort Worth area the best alternative rock music from artists such as Foo Fighters, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Muse, Green Day and more. The Atom Smasher Show will wake up the metroplex weekdays from 6-10 a.m. Ayo hits the airwaves during middays. Jessie takes over during rush hour from 3-7 p.m., and Klinger rounds out the evening from 7 p.m. to midnight.

UPDATE NOVEMBER 10, 2016
Atom Smasher causing controversy at Dallas' 102.1 The Edge KDGE

Mix 96.5 KHMX drops 'The Atom Smasher Morning Show'

UPDATE NOVEMBER 10, 2016
Atom Smasher causing controversy at Dallas' 102.1 The Edge KDGE

UPDATE APRIL 15, 2016
Atom Smasher lands mornings at 102.1 The Edge Dallas

'The Atom Smasher Morning Show' no longer to air on Houston's Mix 96.5 KHMX

UPDATE AUGUST 2015
- The Dave, Mahoney & DK Morning Show to hit Mix 96.5 KHMX
- Atom Smasher joins WoodlandsHits.com lineup with morning show

Shawnda McNeal & Atom Smasher 

Atom Smasher posted on his Facebook page that The Atom Smasher Morning Show on Mix 96.5 KHMX is no more.

Smasher and co-host Shawnda McNeal came to the CBS station from Hot 96 WSTO-FM Evansville, IN in January 2014.

"Grateful for the opportunity to return to my 2nd home and Katie's 1st, and trying my best, it just did not work out," Smasher wrote. "Such is life."

Smasher had previously worked for Houston's 104.1 KRBE as both a night jock and then later the morning show host along with Maria Todd after Sam Malone left for KHMX. In between Houston and Evansville, Smasher worked afternoons at Dallas' 106.1 KISS FM KHKS.

He is looking to stay in Texas.

"Houston is my home away from home," Smasher told mikemcguff.com in 2014. "I grew up in South Louisiana, but when I worked here, I developed relationships that tied me to this city forever. One being my wife who is from Kingwood. We were married here in 2005."

UPDATE NOVEMBER 10, 2016
Atom Smasher causing controversy at Dallas' 102.1 The Edge KDGE

UPDATE APRIL 15, 2016
Atom Smasher lands mornings at 102.1 The Edge Dallas

Atom Smasher says he was let go from Dallas' 102.1 The Edge KDGE after format flip

After 27 years, 102.1 The Edge KDGE flips format to Star 102.1, drops Atom Smasher show

UPDATE 11/18/2016



UPDATE 11/17/2016
iHeartMedia/Dallas Launches AC Star 102.1, Replaces KDGE
Star 102.1 replaces The Edge KDGE in Dallas.

Christmas music launches on ‘Star 102.1’
After Christmas, iHeartMedia announced in a press release, Star 102.1 will switch to a mainstream adult-contemporary format, playing “hits from major artists like Madonna, Maroon 5, Michael Jackson and Kelly Clarkson.”

Thank you everyone. No one is more disappointed than me. I will say more this weekend. Need to disconnect and try to make sense of my life.

— Atom Smasher Show (@atomsmashershow) November 17, 2016

ORIGINAL POST PRE EDGE FORMAT CHANGE

Atom Smasher issues public apology to 102.1 The Edge listeners

When longtime Houston radio dude Atom Smasher worked mornings at Mix 96.5 KHMX Houston, his tenure was controversy free from what I remember, but now he is apparently shaking up the Dallas-Fort Worth radio dial.

The recently hired 102.1 The Edge KDGE morning show host took to the radio apparently and social media to apologize for something he said:

"On behalf of the show, I'd like to apologize for anyone who was offended by comments made during this morning's Atom Smasher Show. Although I may not be able to publicly address the situation, I take full responsibility and hope to move past this and continue being a part of your morning commute on 102.1 The Edge."
Sincerely,
Atom

Now, just what was said, I have no idea. And neither do the listeners writing in to him on social media. In fact, I have even more DFW folks coming to my blog than usual because they are trying to figure out what Smasher said!

I'm guessing since this seemed to have happened yesterday, maybe it is election related. If so, what could he have possibly said that hasn't been said already?!

UPDATE 11/17/2016
iHeartMedia/Dallas Launches AC Star 102.1, Replaces KDGE

UPDATE November 16, 2016
KDGE Dallas Drops Alternative After 27 Years

VIDEO: Behind the scenes of Atom Smasher's 104.1 KRBE in 2003

Remember Atom Smasher at 104.1 KRBE? From night man to morning show host duties, Atom certainly made an impact on Houston.

In fact, when Sam Malone left and Smasher and Maria Todd became the morning show, I realized people were interested in Houston media stories on my blog. You can blame this event for the continuation of this blog.

Above is behind the scenes footage of Atom Smasher doing his show in the KRBE studios back in 2003. As a self confessed radio geek, I enjoy watching good DJs doing their show. It appears to take someone with great multi-tasking skills with slight ADHD. Atom is even entertaining with callers who probably never made air.

RELATED
- Atom Smasher: Where are they now?
- Atom Smasher leaves Dallas 106.1 KISS FM

Atom Smasher of 104. 1 KRBE fame gets a new job

You can't say I don't try to follow up on my posts. Today FMQB announced that former 104.1 KRBE morning show host, Atom Smasher, landed a new gig:

Atom Smasher is named afternoon host at CHR [106.1] KHKS/Dallas effective 9/25. Smasher was most recently morning co-host at CHR KRBE/Houston. Smasher fills the shift once occupied by J.J. Kincaid who now anchors afternoons at Z100/New York.

That's a shame, I was hoping Atom would stay in Houston, but I guess the competition didn't want him around. Now you will have to keep up with him on his MySpace account only.

No word on what's going on with Maria Todd. Heard something?

Thanks to everyone who has written in and commented on this story.

UPDATE:
Atom Smasher's new bio page on 106.1 KISS FM

Atom Smasher: Where are they now?

Remember Atom Smasher from 104.1 KRBE? He's been located. Mr. Smasher is now the morning guy at Hot 96 WSTO-FM in Evansville, IN. You can hear his air check from 1999 on KRBE.

Previous to that he was at 106.1 KISS FM KHKS Dallas.

SEE HIS NEW BIO

RELATED
- KRBE talks about why morning show was changed
- Atom Smasher of 104. 1 KRBE fame gets a new job
- Atom Smasher leaves Dallas 106.1 KISS FM

Atom Smasher returns to morning radio

Atom Smasher joins Katy Dempsey on CANDY 95 KNDE in Bryan-College Station from the "Katy and Smash" show

Houston and Dallas radio veteran Atom Smasher returns to radio.

Smasher is joining Top 40 CANDY 95 KNDE in Bryan-College Station.

He's teaming up with station program director and host Katy Dempsey for the new "Katy and Smash" show.

"I’m excited to be with a company that still follows the fundamental rules of what radio was intended to be," Smasher said in a statement. "CANDY 95 is local and community driven. They just won a MARCONI, so I’d say they’re pretty good at it. Big thanks to General Manager, Ben Downs, for having faith in my skills and PD Katy Dempsey who has already shown herself to be one of the most dedicated/hard-working people I’ve seen. Now how long before she hates seeing my face in the morning?"

“It’s not a pretty face, but he’ll do," Dempsey added. "We are excited to introduce Atom to our audience. A large portion of our listeners are from Houston/Dallas, so it’s going to be a pleasant surprise for those who grew up with the guy. (That’s an OLD joke).”

Smasher originally made a name for himself in our area on nights at 104.1 KRBE. He later moved to mornings. He has done stints at 106.1 KISS FM Dallas, Hot 96 WSTO-FM Evansville, IN, and Mix 96.5 KHMX Houston.

He last did mornings on the now non-existent 102.1 The EDGE KDGE Dallas - Fort Worth.

Since then he has launched The Bad Daditutde podcast.

The new show debuts this Monday, November 6th from 6am to 10am.

KRBE talks about why morning show was changed

I'm almost getting tired of this story. We all know by now that Atom Smasher and Maria Todd were dismissed from the new Cumulus version of 104.1 KRBE. Then the former Mix 96.5 KHMX morning show of Roula Christie and Ryan Chase came on board. That's because former 104.1 KRBE morning guy, Sam Malone, replaced them.

This is getting more complex than an episode of Lost.

Andrew Guy Jr. of the Houston Chronicle has been doing his best to keep up with the story. He just went back to KRBE and talked to the station on why the changes were made and what others in the radio industry think of it:

When KRBE's new owners revamped their morning show, they did more than set off the ire of loyal listeners. They also shed light on the broader issues of audience demographics and the future of mainstream radio.

The decision to replace Atom & Maria in the Mornings with The Roula and Ryan Show was, said executives at Cumulus Media Partners, a business call: Atom and Maria -- a hit with younger listeners -- didn't reach the 25- to 50-year-old crowd, a target demographic for advertisers.

"They were targeted really young," Patrick Fant, Cumulus market manager, said of Atom Smasher and Maria Todd. "Roula and Ryan have the ability to target a broader age demographic. (KRBE) will always be very strong with teens and with young people. That won't change. We're simply trying to reach a broader, older group."

I have a commenting section full of people who disagree with just who listened to Atom and Maria.

Also, I have another comment post that says Atom Smasher is on his way to San Antonio for a new job, but no official word on that. I am here if Atom or Maria want to talk since this blog has become the place for listeners to complain.

Texas reporter hospitalized, a sign for KPRC plus more

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http://mix965houston.cbslocal.com/holiday-toy-drive/

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Atom Smasher leaves Dallas 106.1 KISS FM

Houston radio listeners will remember the talented Atom Smasher from 104.1 KRBE.  He left for Dallas but now he is leaving that station too FMQB reports:

Atom Smasher exits afternoons at CHR KHKS/Dallas (106.1 KISS FM). Sister CHR WXKS/Boston night host Jackson Blue will take over afternoons via voicetracking until he lands in the Lone Star state in a few week. READ THE REST

Will he return to Houston to Hot 95.7 KKHH?

What Atom Smasher & Maria Todd are up to

Using my computer detective skills, I found out what the elusive former 104.1 KRBE morning show crew is up to...at least at this point. On Atom Smasher's MySpace page, Atom and Maria Todd have an audio message imploring a radio station to hire them as a team. Although Atom does seem happy that he is able to sleep late now.

On a related note, former 104.1 KRBE morning show regular Johnny Bravo has stayed with Cumulus Media Partners radio and will have a Friday night show on SuperTalk 97.5 KFNC. The show's topic is relationship advice. Here is his MySpace page where you can listen to the show's promo.

Bravo's profile says he is 23-years-old so I hope he has dated A LOT to know what the heck he is talking about for the show.

Wonder if this show will be as good as Love Phones with Jagger and Dr. Judy that aired on 107.5 The Buzz in the 90s? Guess market manager Patrick Fant likes relationship shows since I believe he was programming The Buzz back then.

Major shakeup to Houston's CHR 104.1 KRBE

UPDATE (7/13): Former Houston radio air talent, Dave E. Crockett (93Q KKBQ, 95.7 KIKK, Mix 96.5 KHMX, 107.5 KLDE among others) stops by the mikemcguff blog to provide some analysis and opinion on this week's radio happenings.

UPDATE (7/12): Roula and Ryan are the new morning show for 104.1 KRBE. READ MORE.

The Houston Business Journal reports that Atom Smasher and longtime morning host, Maria Todd are out at Houston CHR 104.1 KRBE:

Citing market research and "evolving market conditions," Cumulus Media Partners Market Manager Patrick Fant says a new morning team will greet listeners on July 24. Atlanta-based Cumulus Media (Nasdaq:CMLS) owns KRBE.

Smasher, previously the afternoon radio host for the popular station, took over the morning slot last year when radio personality Sam Malone left the station to pursue a morning position at rival station 96.5 KHMX.

"We are taking steps to ensure KRBE's continued market dominance, in pursuit of an audience that will reflect the vibrant personality of our city while serving the needs of our advertisers," Fant said in a statement. "Our decision is based on research and a review of evolving market conditions, and we are confident that our new, world-class morning show lineup will take the station to even greater heights while engaging an even bigger audience."

In Houston, Cumulus Media Partners owns and operates 104 KRBE (KRBE-FM), Rock 103.7 (KIOL-FM), and SuperTalk 97.5 (KFNC-FM).

Saturday update:
The Houston Chronicle's Andrew Guy talked with KRBE's Pat Fant who said research showed the duo's appeal was slipping:

"As good as they are, they had a specific appeal with the 25 and under (age) range," said Patrick Fant, market manager for Cumulus Media Partners, which has owned KRBE since May. "We're hoping to broaden that a bit. We're about to introduce the market's next big thing."

He added the new show will feature "more lifestyle-oriented content that would appeal to families, teens (and) appeal to both men and women. Just a broader reach overall."

I thought Atom Smasher was very talented when he worked the KBE night shift. In fact, I would go as far as to say he was one of the best jocks in town then and I'm not a huge fan of the format. Heck, I knew people way out of KRBE's demo that would listen to his shock jock show. Hopefully we hear more of him in Houston.

The morning show change is the most public, but just one of the changes at KRBE recently. The station's program director, Tracy Austin, just announced she's out of there this week:

In a surprise move, Cumulus mainstream top 40 KRBE PD Tracy Austin has announced that she will exit the station when her contract expires at the end of August, for a programming position in Oz.

She will join top 40 Nova 106.9, owned by DMG Radio, in Brisbane, Australia.

Another change? KRBE Vice President/General Manager, Mark Shecterle, left last May before Cumulus Media bought out former owner Susquehanna.

Then in June, longtime DJ Scott Sparks changed jobs says FMQB:

At Cumulus CHR KRBE Houston, MD Leslie Whittle adds the 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. shift and Tracy Austin hits the air from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. as midday talent Scott Sparks segues to Cumulus-Houston Director/Non-Traditional Revenue for KRBE, Rock KIOL and Talk KFNC.

Now there are other rumors about him going around the net chatboards on where he might show up next.

Who will wake Houston up on 104.1 KRBE in the mornings? Will Roula and Ryan make their promised comeback? Will KRBE change formats?

It's doubtful on the format change.

KRBE's Maria Todd has a new job

All of you Maria Todd and Atom Smasher lovers, I have news. Maria has landed a job in San Francisco says A + E Interactive:

The Bay's new adult hip-hopping station, 99.7-FM KFRC, now called "Movin' 99.7, has hired Baltazar, from New York, as its morning man. His partner will be Maria Todd from Houston.

[sic]

Having grown up in Northern California, Baltazar is looking forward to being a part of the new MOViN morning team. "I can't wait to crack open the mic and say 'Let's get MOViN San Francisco! It's Baltazar and Maria!” He is equally excited about his new co-host. “Maria is the kind of person every woman would love to go shopping with and every man would love to watch a football game with. She is one of the funniest people I have ever met.”

That means no return to 104.1 KRBE for Maria. With this move, there's no reunion with Sam Malone over at Mix 96.5 KHMX in the future either.

Last check Atom Smasher was at Dallas' 106.1 KISS FM.

Jeff Ehling and I talked about starting a morning radio show. Any stations willing to give two unproven guys who think they're funny a break? Our first guest could be Kathy Whitmire. Why not?

Kidd Kraddick replaces Maria Todd mornings on Mix 96.5 KHMX

UPDATE JANUARY 07, 2014
Atom Smasher ready to shake things up at Mix 96.5 KHMX

UPDATE 7/27/2013
Radio's Kidd Kraddick has died

CBS Radio Houston announced today that Dallas-based syndicated morning show Kidd Kraddick in the Morning will take over the morning show slot from the legendary Maria Todd and co-host Brad Booker at Mix 96.5 KHMX this coming Monday, June 13.

Kidd Kraddick and crew will air from 5 to 9am.

“Mix 96-5 is a long-time Houston favorite radio brand and Kidd’s show is a perfect compliment," said Senior Vice President and Market Manager for CBS RADIO Houston, Brian Purdy. "It’s topical, fun and entertaining and we know our listeners are going to love it.”

I'm surprised Kidd Kraddick didn't show up in Houston earlier. Especially in the time period Mix 96.5 was owned by Clear Channel. Kidd's home station is Clear Channel owned 106.1 KISS FM KHKS.

“Houston has been at the top of our affiliate wish list for nearly ten years," Kraddick said. "We do really well in all of our Texas markets so it looks like a natural and logical next step. We’ve had opportunities in Houston in the past but the circumstances were never exactly right. We only want to be on if we can win, and with CBS as our partner for the first time, we think we have a chance to do well.”

As for Maria Todd, she will move to afternoon drive from 2 to 7pm on Mix 96.5.

“We are thrilled to have Maria continue to be part of the on-air line-up of Mix 96-5," said KHMX Program Director Tracy Austin. "She is a beloved Houston personality and it makes sense that she has her own show!”

Austin says Todd's show will be a mix of hit music, listener calls and her signature entertainment news. CBS did not say what will happen to co-host Booker.

Both Austin and Todd previously worked across the street at 104.1 KRBE.

Here is more about Kidd Kraddick:

With its ensemble cast, Kidd Kraddick in the Morning is known for being completely irreverent and hilarious in one moment, then profoundly touching the next. Kidd and his crew have been lauded for their commitment to charity with Kidd’s Kids - the show’s signature charitable cause which sends terminally and chronically ill children and their families to Walt Disney World each November. The show is heard in 85 markets across the country and Kraddick says his 86th affiliate will get lots of attention.

UPDATE
CBS Houston confirms to me that Brad Booker will no longer be with the station. That also includes former Mix 96.5 KHMX afternoon guy Dave Morales. Maria Todd takes his slot and CBS says Morales is gone too. Morales previously worked in Dallas at 106.1 KISS FM where Kraddick broadcasts from. He also has worked at Hot 95.7 KKHH and the now defunct 102.9 The Planet KKPN.

UPDATE JANUARY 07, 2014
Atom Smasher ready to shake things up at Mix 96.5 KHMX

Mix 96.5 KHMX moves Blake Hayes to mornings

Blake Hayes drops into Kidd Kraddick's former morning slot on Mix 96.5 KHMX

JANUARY 07, 2014
Atom Smasher ready to shake things up at Mix 96.5 KHMX

Houston's Mix 96.5 KHMX has had some turnover in the morning drive over the last few years.

Maria Todd came back to Houston to work at the CBS station in 2010, she was later replaced by Dallas-based syndicated guy Kidd Kraddick, whose show was just dropped last November.

With a promise of going local, Mix 96.5 KHMX afternoon drive man Blake Hayes will be moved to mornings starting Monday, February 25th. At the same time, Chad Pitt will join the Mix team for afternoon drive. Chad comes to Houston from Hot 101.5 in Tampa, but no stranger to CBS, having handled afternoon drive and Adult Top 40 WSJT Tampa.

Mix 96.5 KHMX's Blake Hayes (blakehayes.com)

“I believe this move will sure up our personality driven line up on Mix,” said KHMX PD Bob Neumann. “Blake is the perfect fit for where we’re going with morning show. I talked to many very talented people during my search, but in the end, Blake is the right fit. It’s nice to be able to promote from within.”

“I worked with Chad in Tampa," Neumann added. "He’s a real pro and will fit right in with the Mix staff.”

Morning news and traffic will continue to be handled by John Paul Stevenson, who will also serve as morning show producer. Hayes has been handling Afternoon Drive for Mix since January of 2012.

JANUARY 07, 2014
Atom Smasher ready to shake things up at Mix 96.5 KHMX

Mix 96.5 KHMX dumps Kidd Kraddick; going local

UPDATE JANUARY 07, 2014
Atom Smasher ready to shake things up at Mix 96.5 KHMX

UPDATE 7/27/2013
Radio's Kidd Kraddick has died

UPDATE 2/20/2013
Mix 96.5 KHMX moves Blake Hayes to mornings

I tweeted this out last night and got such a reaction, that I'm blogging about it too.

The Houston Chronicle is reporting that Mix 96.5 KHMX is dropping the Dallas-based syndicated morning show Kidd Kraddick in the Morning. Kidd and crew were on in Houston for a little more than a year.

You might remember that Kraddick replaced the legendary 104.1 KRBE morning host Maria Todd and co-host Brad Booker. Todd moved over to News 92 FM KROI. Booker left for country powerhouse KWNR-AM in Las Vegas.

The Chron says that KHMX producer John Paul Stevenson aka “Producer JP” will take over until a full-time replacement is found. By the way, Stevenson is the Rockets’ PA dude at the Toyota Center.

Guess until someone is officially hired for Mix 96.5 mornings, we can just watch for Maria Todd and Sam Malone sightings around town.

Don't worry about Kidd Kraddick, you can still catch him on TV in Houston.

UPDATE JANUARY 07, 2014
Atom Smasher ready to shake things up at Mix 96.5 KHMX

RELATED
Should Sam Malone have stayed at 104.1 KRBE?

The Dave, Mahoney & DK Morning Show to hit Mix 96.5 KHMX

UPDATE JANUARY 2017
After getting dropped by Mix 96.5 KHMX, the Dave and Mahoney Morning Show returns 2.6.17 on X107.5 Las Vegas without Daena Kramer.

The Dave, Mahoney & DK Morning Show Launches September 14

CBS RADIO’s Mix 96.5 announced today a new morning show will debut on Monday, Sept. 14 (6:00-10:00AM) as the station celebrates its 25th anniversary broadcasting Hot Adult Contemporary music. The Dave, Mahoney & DK Morning Show joins the station from CBS RADIO’s KXTE-FM in Las Vegas where they have been a proven ratings winner during their six year tenure. The show will be broadcast on-air, online at www.mix965houston.com and via the Radio.com app for mobile devices.

As part of Mix 96.5’s anniversary celebration, the station will host a concert featuring Rachel Platten, Matt Nathanson and Houston’s own Hilary Duff on Sunday, Sept. 20 at the House of Blues. Tickets go on sale to the public Monday, August 10th.

“Mix is a huge brand with a 25-year heritage in Houston,” said Sarah Frazier, Senior Vice President and Market Manager, CBS RADIO Houston. “As we celebrate our silver anniversary, we are excited to introduce the listeners to Dave, Mahoney and DK. With them anchoring our lineup, we are in a strong position to expand our brand over the next 25 years.”

“The Dave, Mahoney and DK Show is best described as a progressive, fast-paced program that connects with a young adult audience in an authentic, fun and relatable way,” said Charese Fruge, Vice President of Programming/Operations Manager, CBS RADIO Houston. “Dave, Mahoney and DK are real, self-deprecating and just plain funny. They are just everyday people talking about everyday things that are top of mind for all of us.”

“We want to thank CBS Radio for trusting us with this huge opportunity on Mix 96.5. To work in a major market with the programmer that has helped us build The Dave, Mahoney, and DK Morning Show into what it is today, is the perfect opportunity. We're primed for a win with CBS Radio Houston and we're going to hit the ground running on September 14th” said Dave, Mahoney & DK.

RELATED
- Listen to a show preview
- Mix 96.5 KHMX drops 'The Atom Smasher Morning Show'
- Atom Smasher ready to shake things up at Mix 96.5 KHMX
- Mix 96.5 KHMX moves Blake Hayes to mornings
- Mix 96.5 KHMX dumps Kidd Kraddick
- Kidd Kraddick replaces Maria Todd mornings on Mix 96.5 KHMX
- Maria Todd and Brad Booker team up for Mix 96.5 KHMX mornings
- Changes at Mix 96.5 KHMX mornings
- Sam Malone out at Mix 96.5 KHMX

(This post was taken from a CBS Radio Houston press release)

Houston DJ greats broadcasting with SuiteRadio

Ever wonder where some of Houston's top radio talent are working today?  They could be with SuiteRadio Broadcast. 

Big Houston radio DJ talent such as Donna Mackenzie, Rowdy Yates, Outlaw Dave, Pam Kelly, Steve Robison, Maria Todd, Atom Smasher and Keegan Lucas are all on air somewhere on a radio station across the United States.

SuiteRadio, is a Houston-based company located between Uptown and River Oaks, that offers musical formats with big market talent, to radio stations around the country.

suiteradio.net/broadcast/

I caught up with SuiteRadio's Chief Operating Officer and Co-Founder, Pat Fant (and the founding father of 101 KLOL), to give us the details on the company.

Mike McGuff:  When I first interviewed you in 2010, your company, RFC, was streaming stations online.  Now you are doing streaming and terrestrial radio broadcasts.  How did you move back into FM?

Pat Fant: We added a second company, SuiteRadio Broadcast a couple of years ago to fill the need for a more refined syndication service to station owners.  With the technology we have now, our SuiteRadio host/personalities can be heard on local stations all over the country.  The economic advantages to owners are obvious when bringing in top talent from the outside.  But starting a syndication network is really hard work and takes time.  But we did it.  SuiteRadio is now on air with over 30 affiliated stations in 20 states with a combination of either full, 24/7 format service or a high-profile morning show.  Alongside my partner Cruze, and with the invaluable help of Chief Talent Wrangler Rowdy Yates and our Senior Director Chuck Bortnick, SuiteRadio has opened a new market for a preferred level of syndication service to radio. 

In your latest video, SuiteRadio features a who's who of Houston radio.  How did you land all of this big time H-Town talent?

PF: Well, fortunately they took my calls and said yes!   I think we said something like, "if you help me build a network radio business with the best on-air team, together we will wind up with great pipeline for top Texas talent to have a national outlet."  Just give us time to build it all the right way.  We can now say with confidence that the level of talent and personality heard on SuiteRadio formats is unmatched by ANYONE ELSE in the music format syndication business.  We also had to find the right technical delivery system, and the smart minds that could make network and local talk to each other electronically - around the clock.  We brought in our national ad sales partners at United Stations to monetize all the commercial minutes we earn on affiliated stations.  Finally, we grabbed the most knowledgeable guy out there in Affiliate Sales.  Ed Moloney heads up our SuiteRadio LA office talking to radio stations around the US every day.  

What kind of programming are these Houston DJs providing for stations?

PF: SuiteRadio offers 8 different hosted music formats for radio, from country to rock to Hot AC and also Spanish language.  Definitely watch the VIDEO here!  I believe I've been making these station videos since the 80s going back to KLOL and KTRH, and then for The BUZZ and even KRBE in 2009.  Now this new one for SuiteRadio is the best showcase ever for well-known, high-functioning Houston radio stars like Donna Mackenzie, Rowdy Yates, Outlaw Dave, Pam Kelly, Steve Robison, Maria Todd, Atom Smasher, Keegan Lucas - dang -- did I just say all that!  That's a lot of radio royalty in one place, and they are all right here at SuiteRadio making radio for new fans nationwide.  And wait until you get a look at our next generation of on-air hosts in Kaitlin Doyle, Tom Harris and Adam Andrus.

Mike McGuff, Dusty Hill, Pat Fant

Since signing on 101 KLOL in 1970, you  have been on the cutting edge of radio and video production, what are your predictions for the future of broadcasting?

PF: There are a lot of opinions about what's next for over-the-air radio.  I only know that good content ALMOST always finds a way!  Whether from a 2,000 foot tower or an app on the phone, give me someone who is AUTHENTIC and isn't reading a card.  I believe you will see a lot more specialty programming on broadcast, like stations built around cause marketing, foreign language, religious, sports, politics, education.  People with something to say and hopefully, more influential music outlets that find value in introducing new artists.  Today most radio programmers would run from that idea - but I can see a strategy there given the proliferation of streaming that can handle the basic, day-to-day stuff just fine.  

Anything else you want to add?

PF: We are finally starting to filter back into keeping an office schedule of sorts, with staff coming back into the studios to track their shows.  I have missed that more than I would have thought.  In the creative business, you need people and interaction and those little 10 second hall way conversations that fire off an idea that go go make into radio before heading home.  That's how all my stations thrived over the years by bringing personality into the presentation.  I want to go on record that 8 second limits on a jock are having the opposite effect from what PPM programmers expected.  You are taking away incentive to listen, not adding to it. With all the streaming alternatives, the more you dumb down your station to songs and sweepers the more you give up in your fight to remain a factor.  But what do I know - I've become a comedy writer!  I wish I had done this years ago.  

RELATED
- The crazy world of 101 KLOL in the Rice Hotel

- What music was KLOL playing in 1971?

Kidd Kraddick's big secret, KTRK pranked and more stuff that happened

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I'm like the guy at the office who forgot to give you a Christmas present a few weeks ago, and then shows up in January with one. My gift to you today...all the stuff that went on while I was on (sorta)hiatus.

First exit of New Year
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DMN Bids Goodbye to WFAA Because the Partnership Never Really Worked
Jim Moroney — chairman, president, and CEO of A.H. Belo, owner of the Dallas Morning News — dreaded this day. He knew it was coming, but that made it no easier. When the recommendation came from his top editors (news side bosses Bob Mong and George Rodrigue, as well as digital chief David Duitch), it said what he thought it would: partner with Channel 5, pass on Channel 11, say goodbye to Channel 8.
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D-FW's list of 2013 TV newsroom exits

Kidd Kraddick's Big Secret
Before his sudden death at age 53, he became one of the most popular DJs in the country. He made millions by talking about himself. But there was one thing he couldn't share.

FCC Approves Gannett-Belo Deal
The commission gave the green light to the $1.5 billion Gannett buy of Belo's 20 stations as well as the $2.7 billion purchase by Tribune Co. of Local TV LLC’s 16 stations. Gannett says it expects to close its deal next week.

KDGE Brings Back 'Jagger Mafia' For Mornings
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Jay Michaels exits Clear Channel/Dallas duo
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Me-TV Finds New Dallas Home
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‘Father of prostitute’ pranks American TV station, garners fans
The story of six students robbed at gunpoint at the University of Houston was no longer a gripping headline after one student, who claimed to have been a witness, told KTRK abc13 his name was “Abu Sharmouta.”

Josh Innes leaving KILT for job in Philadelphia
Josh Innes, the polarizing but popular co-host of KILT’s (610 AM) afternoon drive time show since December 2010, has left the station for a similar position in Philadelphia and will be replaced in January by longtime KGOW (1560 AM) host Sean Pendergast.
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John Harris is out at KGOW as station shuffles lineup
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Atom Smasher to host new Houston morning radio show
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Chronicle names managing editor
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Tamez lands as EP in Telemundo Houston
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Viewers may have noticed recently that KPXB channel 49 has lost its subchannels. Main ION programming remains on channel 49.1, but Qubo, ION Life and infomercials disappeared from 49.2 through 49.4.

WPTV Reporter Alex Sanz to Join the AP
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Mix 94.7 names new morning host
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KWBT in, KTBC out on 94.5 FM in Waco
94.5 - Waco’s only FM talk radio station - changed to a hip-hop format.

El Paso Radio
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MOVING

John Brewer has left the assignments desk at News92fm KROI for the one over at KPRC 2. He's worked at KROI for more than a year. Before that, he was a reporter and anchor at KPFT. The native Houstonian is a Cy-Fair HS and UH grad.

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