
Cox Media Group Tampa Bay has flipped WPOI from CHR Hot 101.5 to the market’s only Urban Adult Contemporary station, dubbed 101.5 The Vibe. This move follows CMG Radio’s recent Urban AC expansions in the Sunshine State after moving Jacksonville’s Hot 99.5 to 106.5 (WHJZ) to expand its reach.
The station will now feature artists like Usher, Alicia Keys, and Mary J. Blige, and carry Rickey Smiley’s syndicated program at mornings.
CMG Radio VP of Audience & Operations Chris Eagan commented, “This Tampa launch and Jacksonville frequency change demonstrate our commitment to the Urban AC format,” said Chris Eagan, VP of Audience & Operations for CMG Radio. “101.5 The Vibe is the latest addition to our portfolio of award-winning Urban AC stations in Miami, Orlando, Jacksonville, and Atlanta. I’m proud of the hard work our Tampa and Jacksonville teams put into these moves.”
CMG Radio EVP Rob Babin said, “We’re excited to launch 101.5 The Vibe and satisfy a significant format need in Tampa’s rapidly growing market. We program our radio stations with local research and audience feedback, so they are tailored to each market. Launching this exciting brand will create a new opportunity for advertisers to connect with highly engaged consumers.”