Since our 10/17 Domain Insight report we’ve been waiting on a format change at Midwest Communications’ Classic Hip-Hop “G102.3” WNGY Morton/Peoria.
That changed at noon today as WNGY relaunched as Rhythmic Classic Hits “KZ 102.3” WKZF following a two hour loop of David Bowie’s “Changes”. The branding is made to replicate that of “KZ 93” WKZW, which was the primary CHR in Peoria through the 1980s and early 1990s. The station is positioning as “Retro Hits” and will feature music of the 80s through early 2000s. Core artists are being listed as Boyz II Men, Mariah Carey, Prince, Salt-N-Pepa, Snoop Dogg, TLC, The Backstreet Boys, Janet Jackson, OutKast, Usher, Beyonce, and 50 Cent.
The station will continue to feature Premiere Networks’ Brooke & Jubal in mornings. Scott Wheeler, who worked on air and programmed WKZW through much of its CHR run, will move from afternoons at sister Oldies “Super Hits WIRL” 1290 WIRL/102.7 W274BM to serve as PD/afternoonhost.
Midwest 360 Communications Peoria is re-launching WNGY as “THE ALL-NEW KZ102-3” (WKZF) effective immediately. The station is serving up pop and rhythmic hits from the 80s, 90s, and 2000s including songs from artists like BOYZ II MEN, MARIAH CAREY, JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE, MADONNA, PRINCE, TLC, and SNOOP DOGG.
The airstaff will feature Peoria radio mainstay Scott Wheeler who will host afternoon drive. The wildly popular Brooke and Jubal Show will continue to anchor morning drive.
“If you grew up listening to KZ93 in the 80s and 90s, this station is for you,” said Midwest 360 Communications Vice-President and General Manager Mike Wild. “With a playlist and even a name that tips its hat to the fun days of Peoria radio, THE ALL-NEW KZ102-3 is filled with songs that you haven’t heard in a long time.”
Wheeler, who also served as a Program Director and air talent for the original KZ93 in the late 80s and early 90s, will also program THE ALL-NEW KZ102-3. “A station with this much energy and variety is going to be lots of fun,” said Wheeler. “If you want to put yourself in a good mood, I promise THE ALL-NEW KZ102-3 will do just that.”
