So I am sitting on my chair in my small dorm room and I am surfing the net and listening to the radio. The time reaches noon and the three hip hop stations (in DC 95.5 and 93.9 and Baltimore 92.3) begin to play a mix of dance music and early hip hop. At this point I often change the station. I sometimes turn to 99.5 because they play some hip hop and r&b but they play a little too much of pop and rock for me. My 'safe' station has always been 100.3, the sole oldies station in the Baltimore/DC station. I enjoy 70-80% of the music they play. 100.3 has been one of the best stations in the area; short commericals and a great mix of motown, early rock and roll, and other music from the 60s and 70s. So shortly after noon, I begin to shuffle through my presets on my stereo and I can't find anything I like, so I tuned my Audiophase stereo to 100.3 and they are playing Hotel California by the Eagles. I love that song, so I set the remote down and get back to what I was doing on my laptop. Right after the song is over, I get a very big shock. An unfamiliar voice announces that I am listening to 'The New WBIG'. I knew immedialtly something was wrong. I quickly surf to WBIG's homepage and to my disappointment I find out that they have changed formats. I also learn from the Washington Post they have changed to a Classical Rock format. Wow, this really bites. As you can see, I am not a big fan of classical rock. Plus a classical rock station already exists in DC (94.7). This comes 1 year after Baltimore's oldies station was terminated.
I also learned from the Washington Post 2 that WTOP has moved and that the 1500 am frequency has been occupied by WTWP, the Washington Post radio. WTOP has moved to 103.5 am so I will still be able to get my sports every half an hour and my weather and traffic every 10 minutes. Whew!
Oldies a Thing Of the Past At WBIG-FM
'70s and '80s Classic Rock Replaces Early Top 40
By Paul Farhi
Washington Post Staff Writer
Tuesday, April 4, 2006; Page C01
Elvis has not only left the building -- he's leaving the airwaves.
So, too, are many of his fellow hitmakers from the 1960s and '70s, including the Beach Boys, Aretha Franklin, Simon & Garfunkel and Wilson Pickett.
In a generational as well as cultural shift, the area's only oldies station, WBIG (100.3 FM), yesterday dropped much of the music that has been a staple of local radio for more than 40 years and replaced it with "classic" rock from the 1970s and early '80s.
Out: the cheerful sound of Motown, which appeals to racially diverse audiences, and early Top 40 radio that harks to the civil rights and Vietnam eras.
In: familiar cuts from rock giants such as Journey, Queen, Supertramp, Aerosmith, the Police and Cheap Trick.
Still holding on: the Beatles and Rolling Stones, but not the epoch-changing British Invasion hits of the mid-'60s.
WBIG, owned by radio giant Clear Channel, ushered out the format at 5 p.m. by playing the Isley Brothers' early 1960s classic "Shout." The music segued into Bachman Turner Overdrive's "You Ain't Seen Nothin' Yet," inaugurating the station's new playlist. WBIG later played tunes by Bruce Springsteen, Fleetwood Mac, Steve Miller and Peter Frampton.
The change is not nearly as jarring as WHFS-FM's sudden abandonment of alternative rock for Spanish pop, or WETA-FM's dumping of classical music for news and talk last year. Still, in one swift move, WBIG consigned a whole swath of iconic pop -- hits of the Temptations, the Monkees, James Brown and Mamas & Papas -- to the same scrapheap on which radio programmers dumped their Frank Sinatra and Perry Como records more than a decade ago.
The switch reflects the decline of the "oldies" format, and the changing contours of the radio business, which faces a many-headed threat from satellite radio, the Internet, iPods and other music-playing devices. By focusing more on music that was popular when today's forty-somethings were in their formative musical years, the station hopes to capture a larger audience and the younger listeners favored by advertisers.
"The audience [for oldies] is getting older and going away," said Jeff Kapugi, Clear Channel's regional vice president of programming. "It's hard to attain new audience [with the format]. We have to make the music more accessible to more people. We think this is a natural evolution."
Although oldies stations continue to do well in cities such as Los Angeles, Denver and Boston, the format has fallen into disfavor elsewhere. WCBS-FM in New York killed it last year, bumping legendary deejay Cousin Brucie off the air and replacing older hits with an expanded, multi-genre mix of pop known in the industry as "Jack" (the move resulted in a disastrous public-relations backlash for WCBS and a precipitous ratings decline that forced the station to get rid of Jack last fall).
WBIG has edged away from an association with "oldies" in recent years, changing its on-air name from "Oldies 100" to "BIG 100" in 2002. It also has updated its playlist in that time, dropping music from the late 1950s and early '60s.
But Clear Channel's decision to move WBIG from its familiar format seems curious in light of the station's recent financial performance. Although the station's ratings have dipped -- it had 2.6 percent of the local audience last quarter, compared with 3.2 percent a year ago -- advertisers paid a relatively big premium to reach those listeners. WBIG ranked No. 10 among local stations in ad revenue last year, generating $16.8 million -- even though the station finished only in a tie for No. 16 among all listeners, according to BIA Financial Network, a media research firm in Chantilly.
WBIG had the oldies niche all to itself, but now faces competition from WARW-FM (94.7), which has been the local classic station for years. And WARW, "The Arrow," had even lower ratings than WBIG, with a 1.7 percent share last quarter.
"There's a concept in radio known as 'owning the hill,' and WARW already owns the classic-rock hill," said Charlie Sislen, a partner in Research Director Inc., an Annapolis-based radio consulting firm. "I don't know what [WBIG is] going to do to displace them."
WBIG fan Matt Neufeld was even more emphatic about the loss of his favorite tunes: "We're going to lose an entire library of music that no one else is playing," said Neufeld, 44, who lives in Greenbelt. "It doesn't make sense. WBIG [was] the only station playing that music. We already have a classic rock station."
But Kapugi said the station has its eyes on older music fans who were set adrift by the demise of contemporary music station Z104 FM in January, and on talk-radio fans seeking a home since Howard Stern went to satellite radio.
Under its new format, WBIG will drop all its current on-air personalities, including morning team Gary Murphy and Jessica Cash, and replace them within the next 90 days, Kapugi said. Until then, he said, the station will have live deejays who will be "pretty anonymous."
WBIG's change follows management turnover at Clear Channel, the area's biggest station owner with eight outlets, including rocker DC 101, soft-rock WASH-FM, sports-talk WTEM-AM and country music WMZQ-FM. Kapugi arrived from Clear Channel's operation in Tampa five weeks ago, and a new general manager of the group, Dave Pugh, came from Detroit in February.
Posted by yirga at April 4, 2006 2:11 PM | TrackBackI totally agree- there was already was a classic rock station; why did they have to change this station that I loved? Like you said, it was safe, I loved most of the music they played...
Posted by: katherine at April 4, 2006 8:12 PMClear Channel screwed up this time. Leave this station alone. It was just great the way it was. It seems strange that if this is such a good thing why dodn't they sometime before switching formats, feel a bit like they were not proud of the switch. I guess my only recourse is to let the sponsors know I won't buy their products, as a form of protest. Money is going to be the only thing WBIG will listen to. Vote with your pocketbook, they will have to listen then.
bill
Posted by: bill at April 5, 2006 2:33 PMMy whole radio listening habit of 15 years was changed within one week! I commute almost 65 miles each way (about an hour and a half). I start out listening to WTOP for about 40 minutes until I'm sick of hearing the repeats. Then I switch to WBIG to listen to oldies the rest of the way. Now WTOP changes to 103.5 whose signal is really poor and unlistenable for the first half of my trip (you know, when you need the traffic reports!) and WBIG switches to the New WBIG - a mixture of half recognizable tunes with no DJs or any chatter to keep me awake. I didn't think the commute could get any worse, but it just did.
Posted by: Bob at April 5, 2006 8:44 PMI am SO BUMMED that I can't wake up to Murphy & Cash anymore! I went out of town for a couple of days and woke up the next morning to music I am unable to describe! I accused my husband of playing with my radio when I quickly discovered it was on 100.3. I tried to call the station and they want you to leave a voice message--and the mailbox was full! I'm sure from other perturbed listeners like me. I then sent an email through their Web page and I got a polite response--I wanted to shove that response back at them! I can't believe they would change the only oldies station. Good grief!
Posted by: Gerda at April 6, 2006 11:51 AMThe management of the station severely underestimated the market and the value of loyal listeners. Perhaps they will bring Murphy and Cash back, if not the music. To eliminate both at the same time was a poor business decision. I am very disappointed to lose the morning connection.
Posted by: Debbie at April 9, 2006 6:38 PMDitto to every comment here! I whole-heartedly agree: the "new" Big 100 stinks! I "old" Big 100.3 was a delight, but this classic rock is for the birds. And, yes, they should bring back the best part of the morning radio: the Murphy & Cash show. They were a delight to listen to during my 1 hour morning commute. I loved their humor, contests (and prizes like t-shirts from the Happy Hour Shelf-O'-Crap), and sharing of their lives with their thousands of loyal listeners every weekday.
Posted by: Natalie at April 11, 2006 8:24 PMI have to agree to every comment here. I only listened to Big 100.3 in the morning so I could hear Murphy & Cash. It was a great way to start my day. Now there is no point to listening anymore. I also sent an email and got the polite response. If they were willing to backstab their own DJ's then why would they even care about the listeners. Goodbye 100.3, I hope you shut down completely for this stupid decision.
Posted by: EJ at April 12, 2006 9:25 AMI completely agree with everyone else's comments. I have listened to Murphy & Cash for many years, and followed them from WMZQ a few years ago. I only listened to WBIG in the mornings for the personalities, not necessarily the music... although 60s and 70s music is what I grew up with. What station should I turn to now? I still like country, but hate WMZQ in the mornings. When Murphy & Cash moved to WBIG, they were replaced by those two clowns (Ben & Brian) on the WMZQ morning show. They are just annoying! ClearChannel... you really screwed up this time! We want Murphy & Cash back!
Posted by: Dixie at April 13, 2006 11:21 PMIt was Murphy and Cash we listened to you fools who run Clear Channel ! Why can't you bring them back to play your music. We followed them from CW to oldies years ago why wouldn't we follow them into your new music format?
I tried listening to your station for a week now and have given up. The music mix is terrible and without the great DJ's we can't make a connection with the show. I will not be back.
I too have listened to Murphy and Cash for a lot of years and really miss them and the oldies. I switched stations with them as well. I also emailed 100 with no response. What a shame they had something really good and they totally blew it! There's nothing decent to listen to anymore!
While switching radio stations one morning looking for Murphy and Cash, I came across station 107.7 FM and was listening to a guy called Mike Moss. I swear it's Gary Murphy. Tune in and see if you agree.
I have also listened to Murphy and Cash for years. When they left WMZQ in the morning, so did I. My commute was much more pleasant while listening to their extremely funny show. I was able to begin my day with a smile. I am anxiously awaiting to hear them again on another station.
Posted by: Pam at April 18, 2006 9:34 PM100.3 has lost me as a fan. i really miss the morning show and i hate the music.
Hey Clear Channel.... I don't think you are thinking to Clear. Like everyone else is saying, morning shows are more about the personalities than about the music. Gary and Jess are the best. The will land someplace else in town, and their ratings will blow away your new format. I think your company name is really Fool Channel.
Posted by: Danny at April 20, 2006 9:59 AMI listed to Murphy & Cash on my way to work. I can listen to any music I want with a 6 disc CD player in my car - they were entertaining and fun to listen to! I broke the monotony of canned formats. Sorry Clear Channel - I just switched to XM Radio!!
Posted by: Karen at April 20, 2006 10:28 AMI listened to 100.3 because I loved the music of 'My Generation'. I'm also going to XM radio and cd's to listen to the music that I love. Goodbye 100.3 may you tumble into obscurity.
Posted by: Tom at April 20, 2006 2:36 PMWhat did you do with Murphy & Cash? I went away for a week and since then I keep changing channels in the morning trying to find the show! Are you crazy or stupid? They were the best thing going in the morning. In case you haven't noticed the demographics of this area there are thousands of baby boomers who loved the the morning show with 60's and 70's format....you can get the classic rock from other stations. Also, you need to know that your here today gone tomorrow switch was icy cold and turned a lot of loyal listeners elsewhere. Do the right thing and bring back Murphy and Cash and all of the morning personalities immediately!!
Posted by: Linda at April 20, 2006 11:20 PMAnyone know where Murphy & Cash have landed? The only good thing left on Clear Channel is Ron Balserck.
Posted by: lynda at April 21, 2006 7:49 AMGoodbye "The New WBIG", you really blew it this time.
Posted by: Bill at April 21, 2006 8:46 AMI sent an email and letter to Clear Channel corporate stating that it wasn't just the music we listened to, but it was the radio personalities that kept us going back. Of course, they didn't have enough common courtesy to answer me back. I guess we should have known this was coming when they started letting DJs like Goldie go last year.
Posted by: Harry at April 21, 2006 1:16 PMI agree with all the previous comments. There is an old saying "If it ain't broke, don't fix it". I have found a new "Oldies" station in Southern Maryland to listen to.
Posted by: Ellen Moore at April 21, 2006 3:51 PMI am MUCH younger than the current "40 something" group, and I enjoyed the "Oldies Station" the way it was. I miss Murphy & Cash, Tom Kelly, etc. They had GREAT music, but apparently the station wasn't a healthy one & they needed a change, according to an e-mail I received after sending a comment to the "New WBIG" on their website. while I like most of the music they are playing now, I miss the older music, I miss the "Oldies" and I wish they could combine what it WAS with what they want now, why not a combo of the "Oldies" we all love and adore (no matter what age, the Motown, the Mama & Papas, etc) WITH the "Classic Rock/Greatest Rock & Roll of All Time" why does it have to be one or the other?
For some of us there is another station, it's a Fredericksburg, VA station, 95.9 (WGRQ) Colonial Beach, it's Oldies. It fades a little the closer to DC I get, but I live in Northern, VA, and I can pick it up pretty good up through Arlington.
Posted by: Kay at April 23, 2006 8:30 PMThis is the letter that I sent to Big 100 regarding their new format. Sorry to say, but the new station is much better than before:
When I first came to the DC area, there was a good number of decent radio
stations that catered to the classic rock/AOR format (105.9, 106.7 and DC 100).
Over the years, I have seen radio in this area progressively worsen, with the
only bright spots when 104.1 played only music from the 70s and 94.7 started up.
It became even worse with 104 becoming some hip/hop station and now, I believe
classical. The Arrow, in a way, was even worse, becoming “Rock without the
Rules” (I always thought that Rock was the antithesis of rules, but that's
another issue) and programming a bizarre line-up that included (I swear that I
heard this) Tears for Fears, “modern” classic rock such as Guns 'N Roses, and B
side tracks that only a particular DJ could enjoy.
I spend a lot time in rush hour, an hour in the morning and about an hour and a
half in the afternoon. One morning, your promo was different, the voice was
different and I remarked to my wife that Big 100 had changed its format. Sure
enough, I was treated to decent music that did not include the same Motown and
bubble gum pop that your station had played all too much. Finally, we have a
station that appears to have it almost right.
I am personally thankful for the change for a number of reasons. First,
especially in the morning, no stations play music. Let's take Mix 107.3 for
example. Not only does this station have a similar bizarre format akin to the
Arrow, there is basically no music. Diamond in the Morning is a form of water
torture with sucking up to celebrities and discussions of the banalities of
their own personalities on a daily basis. I truly feel sorry for the
individuals in the region that have developed some type of bond with these
personalities who actually enjoy listening to Diamond phone his wife and kid or
Jimmy Alexander attempt to be humorous.
The Arrow is no better, at least in the morning, with Stevens and Medley, though
less annoying than Diamond, has a terrible format and way too much chatter. And
to further indicate how low the Arrow has sunk (aside for the Tears for Fears
(this is still unbelievable to me)), they hired the Weasel. DC 100 is a good
station for only those that enjoy angry rock.
So at least for now, we have a decent station in the DC area. I say for now
because no one has attempted to brink on any personalities to detract from the
music. Murphy and Cash were the least annoying of what I referenced above, and
they still lowered themselves into the banality of everyday life, discussing
what they did the night before, how Septien (sp?) spent time with his kids, how
Balsaric was getting married,blah blah blah. It even became annoying with the
playing of the National Anthem every morning at 5:00 am. While I understand the
desire to be patriotic and support the troops, Murphy and Cash had such a rigid
format of what they talked about, there was never a consideration to break
anything up (e.g., maybe play America the Beautiful, Living in America, or even
Lee Greenwood's God Bless the USA). In short, radio personalities detract from
what people want, and the shticks that are used only make things worse (e.g.,
McGriddle Riddle, If I Didn't Read It...). The only exception to this is Jon
Ballard's Make It Stop on DC 101, which truly is funny.
So at least for now, you have a great format that only needs a few tweaks. It's
not perfect, because your playlist is already becoming redundant, and redundant
in the same day. For starters, you can't play enough Stones, Who, Beatles, Paul
Simon (who I haven't heard yet), Elton John, Simon and Garfunkal, Kinks, Boston,
and Queen. You can play too much Aerosmith, Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Nicks (you
have already played White Wing Dove way too much), Fleetwood Mac, and depending
on the song, Led Zeppelin. Case in point, Queen probably 25 to 30 absolutely
great songs. One day in the morning I heard “Somebody to Love” and in the
afternoon I heard it again. There's really no reason for this type of
duplication.
With all that said, you have a great station. Ignore the need for DJs that feel
that they are more important than the music, ignore the need for gimmicks.
Commercial radio is a dying art form, evidenced by CD and MP3 players, satellite
radio and iPod FM transmitters. The closer you get to what people want to hear,
the closer you are going to get to perfection.
I was very disappointed to learn, and more so to hear the new format at BIG 100. It was always nice to transit the 396 corridor with Murphy and Cash and the songs of my youth - I've now tuned in to NPR.
Posted by: Debbie at April 25, 2006 8:45 AMI am not sure who the genius was who removed Murphy and Cash---I do know you made a BAD decision! I have read the comments and agree with most. What you folks fail to realize is that music is music---what draws me to a station is the morning show! If it's a good show I will listen regardless of the music played---Murphy and Cash drew me to 100.3. Now they are gone---I will look elsewhere! Way to go genius!! I sure as heck hope you don't have a degree is radio broad-casting---I will lose faith in our educational system!
Posted by: Troy at April 25, 2006 9:08 AMi'm 14.
i loved this station and was really not happy when they switched formats.
we already have a classic rock station,
94.7!
which the "new" 100.3 will never be able to reach their status.
&& murphy and cash gone??
at least i still got 95.9.
Posted by: eden at April 26, 2006 8:40 PMBelow is the letter I sent via the "BIG 100" website (some of you may know my a.k.a.'s from Murphy & Cash on WMZQ and WBIG):
So, what, you got rid of you on-air staff and just have the same lame music as before??? Hey, I saw this episode of "WKRP"; it’s the one where they fire Johnny and Venus...hate to tell you but it did not work then either. Yes, I'm sure that NOW your playing the "greatest rock 'n roll of all time", sure, sounds the same to me just without anyone with half a brain to actually speak. By the way, I hate to tell you this but since you clearly have no clue I will, the music has not changed, that's because it’s OLD i.e. not NEW. So don't think we are all so stupid by saying that you’re the "New BIG 100". So what, now you can just play more commercials, more $ for you, get rid of anyone that speaks, more $ for you, and just pay the idiot voice-over guy to do promos as filler, more $ for you...gee, I see a trend. And speaking of lame, and we were, are you now going to give Murphy and Cash back their spot at WMZQ and get rid of "Dumb & Dumber?" Come on, send "Sigfried & Roy" back to whatever "Denny's" you found them at and they can go back to "DJ-ing" Bar Mitzvahs at the Moose Lodge. Murphy and Cash were the only good thing you had going for you, now you just suck....Great Plan Beav....
B-I-G This,
KURT
a.k.a.
"Mohammad Mohammad Abdul"
a.k.a.
"The 'Gazumbas' Guy"
Why in the world did you dump that super team Murphy & Cash ? they could have made the switch over, heck they went from Country to the oldies. This new world is a very cold place to be, to just give two decent people the door. I really pray that Murphy & Cash find another station very soon, with better wages and blow your ratings off the dial. Thanks clear channel and I hope you fall on your own sword !
Posted by: Chuck at April 27, 2006 4:06 PMMany of us radio listeners are in our 50's and we are consumers, regardless of what your market researchers say. Advertisers need to remember this too. You've made a BIG error in getting rid of the "oldies format" and especially Murphy & Cash. Your station has definitely disappeared from my "presets"!
Posted by: Kathy at April 28, 2006 12:16 PMI agree that the new big 100 was a big mistake, Murphy and Cash had a great morning show and made the ride into work a little easier. Tom Kelly was great in the evenings also. My husband and I now listen to XM radio. Clear Channel we are so done!!!
Posted by: Teri at May 1, 2006 8:47 PMI switched to satellite radio where I can still listen to the '50's and dearly '60's music. Clear Channel you lost a 12 hour a day listener.
Posted by: Arthur Neill at May 3, 2006 10:29 AMI, too, followed Murphy & Cash from WMZQ, when Ben & Brian (aka Dumb & Dumber...liked that moniker)were brought in; not for the music but for the personalities. I realize there are those that want more music and less chatter in the morning but there are certainly other options for that. Now my CD player's getting a lot more use and I'm much more informed listening to WTOP news, weather, and traffic. Nice job Clear Channel, big business screws it up again.
Posted by: Ed at May 4, 2006 9:42 AMI missed Doug Gillmore and the gang,then you bought in Murphy and Cash and thier gang, I got used to them because they were still playing the great music that I loved; but I fell in love with them in no time flat. I also went away for a couple of weeks and when I turned on the station it was'nt right so I thought , maybe I moved it by accident, no accident,I guess you just don't need us to listen anymore so good by,and yes we will find another station.(You Realy Blew This One).
Posted by: Doretha Rhone at May 10, 2006 8:35 PMI totally agree with you all. I really miss Murphy and Cash and I sure hope to find them on a local station soon. If anyone does, please let us all know. I just hope Clear Channel ratings hit the skids for taking away such a great pair! I am still hunting for a good station to listen to. Murphy and Cash had it all. And, it won't be a Clear Channel station.
Posted by: Sharon Bassarab at May 12, 2006 4:01 PMMan! I hate not having Goldie to lighten up my evenings. Where is he? Anyone know?
Letting Kim go was bad enough, but when I went out of town and came back and Goldie was gone, too. ACK!
Posted by: Claudia at May 13, 2006 11:51 AMClear Channel, you blew it. 100.3 no longer is one the preset buttons on my radio. We get up to a different station each morning and really hate that we do not have Murphy and Cash to help get us going and make the trek to work each AM. Maybe you should change your name from Clear Channel to "FOG" Channel because it seems as if you are in a fog as to what your listeners really want, make that really WANTED. I have to think that you lost more than you gained. No more WBIG on any of our radios. Bring back Gary and Jessica, they were the show, the personality with which we identified.
Posted by: Danny at May 16, 2006 8:01 AMClear channel, I agree. You really screwed up big this time. Is Ron gone now also? The Traffic guy? Saw a traffic manager job open. No more howeird either???Junk yard band????Bring back Murphy and Cash and let us over the hill (evidently) people have our mornings back.
Posted by: dlandi at May 17, 2006 4:55 PMI can't say anything new that hasn't been said, just that I whole heartedly agree...Clear Channel, you screwed up. BRING BACK GARY AND JESS
Posted by: Patty at May 19, 2006 10:45 PMI completely agree, you ruined everything and I will not listen anymore.
Posted by: ANN MARSHALL at May 24, 2006 7:44 AM100.3 is dead to me. I can get the music on a CD or iPod. I miss the conversation, promotions, and special programs. I looked forward to the Morning Show w/Murphy & Cash and the afternoon drive with Thomas A. Kelly. You took the personality out of your radio station and made it just another tune show - forget that!
Where will Murphy & Cash go now? That's where my radio tuner will go as well.
Richard
Bristow, VA
As 5:00am approached I was already 40 minutes into my commute listening to 100.3, and I looked forward to hearing our National Anthem and Murph & Jess re-starting my morning. To my dismay, they never showed up. You would think that Clear Channel would give some kind of warning but they didn't. I am constantly searching for Murphy & Cash, in hopes that I can once again enjoy my morning commute. Clear Channel your really screwed up. Your format really is not going to make it.
Posted by: tws at May 31, 2006 6:55 AMI really miss Murphy and Cash. I hear Ron Balsaric do the traffic on WASH FM every once and awhile. I sincerely hope that M & C will turn up somewhere soon. My mornings aren't quite the same anymore. So please let us hear from you Jessica and Gary.
Posted by: gayle at June 2, 2006 6:41 PM
I have lisened to WMZQ and then WBIG for years with Murphy & Cash and thought when they switched from WMZQ to WBIG that it was a career mistake, Country music was bigger. However, they probably did at the request of management to help WBIG grow.
Management at Clear Channel needs to remember the customers liked Gary & Jess, that means sponsors which means $$$$.
WBIG program manager go take another MBA class, this time pay attention, it all about the customers, the money will come. You blew it.
Please contact me by ICQ: 455297851. I have a news for you.
Posted by: Roland Glicks at June 6, 2006 9:49 PMWhen Murphy & Cash were so unceremoniously dumped from WMZQ and replaced with the idiot children Ben and Brian, I became a loyal lister of 100.3, as I loved Murphy & Cash. Recently, though, since I can't find M&C on the local airwaves I listen to WASH=FM during the morning hours when B&B are on WMZQ, They always said when I was growing up in PA, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it"! Sounds like Clear Channel Management shoudl heed that advise. The new programming sucks! Besides the folks with the most dollars are not the youngest ones out there! It's those of us who have been listening since the Oldies of today were the hot rock and roll of our time! GET A LIFE! GIVE US BACK MURPHY & CASH!
Posted by: Barbara S at June 15, 2006 8:44 PMAs a loyal listener to Murphy and Cash (and Chuckie--I love his laugh) for the 10 years I've lived in N Va I really do miss them and have not listened to BIG(mistake)100.3 since they were yanked off the air. Has anyone heard of where they are? BRING BACK MURPHY AND CASH!!!
I hope the "new" format on BIG 100 tanks, Clear Channel! I will not listen, that's for sure!!
Posted by: Krista at June 17, 2006 9:53 AMWhen Murphy and Cash changed over to BIG100 it was at the direction of management. Something to give that station a boost. Now Unclear channel has dumped the dynamic duo with out notice. It appears that they did that to the entire on air staff. Now we have all automation all the time. They must be giving the advertising away because I’m sure that the ratings have gone through the floor. With the way they just dumped the staff I doubt there is any hope of any of them coming back.
Perhaps the on air types at the rest of the Unclear channel stations should take note. They could be next. Got the resume ready?????
I just miss Murphy & Cash...please bring them back. The ride to work just isn't the same without them. I moved to Big100 when they got moved to that station & if I knew where they were now, I'd be there. I'm loyal to them, not the station.
Posted by: Scott at June 22, 2006 11:41 PMI could not beleive my ears the day I wanted to tune back into time. I thought I had the wrong station. How can they call themselves the big 100.3. They don't have that title now.
It's like those of us from born late 40's and 50's have been tuned out. Well look whose been tuned out now.
I enjoyed the days cruising in the car on weekends listening to the music that took us back into time which no longer is. The noon specials calling in to listen to our favorite oldie.
It's time now for 100.3 to LISTEN to us.
Alex. va
Posted by: susan maxwell at June 25, 2006 2:50 PMDoes anyone know where Murphy, Cash and the crew have gone?
Posted by: Sue at June 29, 2006 7:18 AMI followed Murphy and Cash from WMZQ where they were interesting, entertaining, enlightening, light hearted, very compatible, funny. They continued their format on 100.3 and a show I always looked forward to tuning in. You have lost a listener and the best in radio personalities. New format is terrible! What has management done?
Posted by: Judy Evans at July 6, 2006 1:26 PMI was shocked and disappointed when Murph', Jessica and Chuck didn't show up that Tuesday morning. They were funny and enormously entertaining. Tried the "new" format for a couple of days, but just couldn't take it. (Found this yirga.baltiblogs site while looking for M & C.) Have no need for WBIG's (less than) greatest crapola. Bye bye!
Man do I miss Tom Kelly every evening... he had a quick wit - and didn't get in the way of the music. I hope he lands on his feet. Murphy and Cash too. I'd listened to all of these guys for years!
Posted by: Jeff at July 6, 2006 11:23 PMabout the m&c stuff... they knew...they had a contract...they have lawyers...they moved on. i had contacted the station to do some advertizing for my business and had a rep come out. the next week they were all gone...i kept my money in my pocket...i also dont listen any more...and...m&c have one on me... I'm sure you'll be fine....Tim
Posted by: bran at July 11, 2006 9:43 AMI agree with all who miss M&C - the morning commute just isn't the same. Can't contact the station to complain? Do one better, contact their advertisers and let them know you won't be patronizing their business.
Posted by: Rob at July 13, 2006 7:35 AMWas in Fla for a week, and guess what???They have dj's there. Maybe there is something to it. People listening to music, and talking to dj's. Contests, and questions???Sounds like a good way to run a station. Anyone know what clear channel is thinking????Evidently not about their fans, or should I say lack of.
Posted by: dlandi at July 17, 2006 5:38 PMDoes anyone know where Murphy and Cash went? They were my commute team, I will not listen to 100.3, I followed Murphy and Cash from WMZQ. This was a really dumb move on the part of the radio station.
Posted by: Kim at July 18, 2006 2:35 PMReally, really mis Murphy & Cash along with Chuck and Ron with their bantering back and forth each morning. Made getting on the road at 5am enjoyable and the traffic tolerable. Certainly unfair the wayt things were done and I have NOT listened to 100.3 since then. Also let's not forget Tom Kelley. Sure wish they were back or at least their whereabouts known. How can we find the "crew" and bring them back...
Joe in Stafford
Posted by: Joe at July 20, 2006 4:53 PMI agree with all the comments above. Bring back Murphy and Cash, Ron and Chuck and Tom Kelly. I have not listened to 100.3 since they left. I think it stinks. I have switched to XM to listen to my favorite 50's and 60's music.
Posted by: Pat at July 26, 2006 3:17 PMI am still missing my Murphy and Cash smiles in the morning! I wish someone would pick them up!!! I am sooooo bored with morning radio now!!
Posted by: Sue C. at July 29, 2006 9:02 AMDitto to all complaints. I can listen to XM and CDs. I CHOSE to listen to radio because I loved Murphy and Cash. I chose the friendly banter about the news and the social scene. I don't listen to 100.3 any more because now it has no soul, no personality.
Posted by: Ginny at August 3, 2006 2:21 PMI guess I have a different point of view. When WBIG dumped Dave Adler for Murphy & Cash, I tried listening to them but couldn't stand them. At the time, I predicted they wouldn't last.
No tears shed here.
As luck would have it, Dave landed at WGRQ, closer to my home. :)
Posted by: Rick at August 4, 2006 7:30 AMDave Adler is also on wash fm in the early early mornings. Where the heck are Murphy and Cash??????My mornings stink without all of the laughs they gave me.Chuck...Ron...Stephanie...Tom...What about Charlie Stossel????????
Posted by: dlandi at August 8, 2006 3:24 PMI am so mad at the STINKING 'NEW'100.3 FORMAT!!!!! I absolutely couldn't wait for Mondays to arrive so I could listen to Murphy & Cash whom my family & I simply adored!!!!!!!!!! I have an hour commute & they made it seem like 15-20 minutes.......Where are you two???????????
Posted by: Lisa at August 9, 2006 7:58 PMI started listenign to Murphy and Cash in they were at 98.7, then they left and went to 100.3 Big, I would like to know where Murphy and Cash went to. I commute 65 miles one way every work day and loved listening to them. Where are they now????
Posted by: sharon at August 11, 2006 11:13 AM100.3 fell apart when they sacked Dave Adler in the morning. Murphey & Cash being sacked is one step back to being right, although the loss of Goldie and the others was overwhelming. Took them off my car radio button and never looked back! Found that at night WKBW 1520 Buffalo went back to their rock roots, but lost that one too in Feb. 2006. Face it, it's time to buy a CD stacker for your car and to hell with radio! Cousin Brucie, Jackson Armstrong, Dick Biondi, Chuck Buell, Goldie, WHERE ARE YOU??????????????
Big 100.3 flat out blew it when they fired all their on air talent. Yes, DJ's know that it can happen but come on, what were you thinking Cloudy Channel. Bring them all back and admit your stupidity on air!!
Murphy & Cash - where are you???
Posted by: Jeff at August 14, 2006 12:13 PMJessica Cash is on 93.3 Fredericksburg country. Just filling in for a new mom on Maternity leave. Hopefully they will figure out what a good catch Jessica is and keep her. If she wants to stay.
Posted by: dee at August 25, 2006 3:47 PMClear Channel? Clearly blockheads. I followed Murphy and Cash (and Chuck)from WMZQ and couldn't believe they had disappeared. If WBIG (aka WSUCK) has any sense, they'll bring them back.
Posted by: lynn at August 26, 2006 9:25 PM When M&C got dumped along with everyone else in favor of the new 'Jack' format, I was furious. I fired off a note to clear channel and actually got a response. They asked me 'to give it a chance'.
OK, so six months or so have passed and I now feel I can comment unemotionally.....the station sucks! Aside for replaying the same 200 song playlist till the cows come home (how many times can I listen to 'More than a Feeling' (Boston)?), the absence of DJ's with any semblance of personality is a killer. They seem to have recently seen the merit in having a real person's voice and hired some 'DJs' to cover certain shifts. Unfortunately, they are mere shadows of the previous gang. Further, though the claim to play the 'Greatest Rock and Roll of all time' in six months I don't think I've heard the Beach Boys once...guess they don't rank up there with the 'greats'...and the list could go on and on... It seems if you didn't play in the 70's or later or your name is Beatles or Stones, you cannot be 'great'....what myopic hypocrites.
So as many of the others on this blog, time to drop the preset and move on...not exactly sure where....but anything is an improvement.
I can't belive its gone! I grew up in the DC area listening to Oldies 100 and Goldie every night! When I lived in the area from 1992-1996 Oldies 100 was still billed as a 50s & 60s station. When I moved out of the area I was sad that my new local oldies station only played 60s & 70s songs. well, my local station is gone, replaced by the "clasic rock" stations. I like 70s-80s rock, but hey, where am I going to get "The Peppermint Twist" or "Love Potion Number Nine"? Or, my old favorite, "The Locomotion." Oldies 100 converted me into an Oldies lover at the age of 9. I like oldies better than my parents, and it was their music! I mean, the music of my generation is like, the Macarena or some crap like that. No thanks. Bring back the oldies!!! Not all 20-somethines are trying to bring back the 80s. I mean, really, I had leggings and teal keds when I was 7. I don't want them back.
Posted by: Michelle at September 27, 2006 11:39 AMEvery moring on the way to work I try to listen to Big. Almost always the same song on, so I go to the cd's. Murphy and Cash made the mornings. Wake up clear channel.
Posted by: dlandi at September 27, 2006 3:18 PMI just saw an update on Gary Murphy, he is not and AD Account Executive at CBS Radion in Baltimore. www.dcrtv.com - Gary needs to come back to the air waves -- Gary we miss you and Jessica Cash
You just lost a fan. Your station has no personality. Getting rid of Murphy & Cash & the rest was a dumb move. I miss the music. I'll just have to start listening to my CD's.
Posted by: Bobbie at January 23, 2007 7:12 AMAlmost a year later, and I still listen to XM radio since Murphy & Cash were "released". Why listen to commercials scattered with canned music when I can listen to my favorites. Clear channel just doesn't get it - local radio is dependent on local personalities to survive. Remember Radio 101? I haven't touched a commercial channel since the demise of Murphy & Cash.
Posted by: Karen at March 5, 2007 10:25 PMThis is a complaint that goes further back than mentioned by most of you. I miss Dave Adler, Tom Kelly and Ira every morning as I drive to my teaching job. They are all on various other stations now, but I miss them as a team!!!
Posted by: Gail Chmura at August 2, 2008 2:09 PM