The “102 Jamz” brand has returned to Orlando as Audacy flipped Alternative “FM 101.9” WQMP Daytona Beach to Rhythmic Throwbacks.
Launching with 10,000 songs-in-a-row, the station is positioning as “Orlando’s Home For Throwbacks” with core artists including 2Pac, Beyoncé, Eminem, Notorious B.I.G., and Usher. The first four songs heard were Missy Elliott ft. Ciara “Lose Yourself”, Dr. Dre “The Next Episode”, Mark Morrison “Return of the Mack”, and Eve ft. Gwen Stefani “Let Me Blow Your Mind”.
The move resurrects the branding heard on the station from 1988 until its 2014 flip to CHR “101.9 Amp Radio“. Miguel ‘Mijo’ Irizarry, Brand Manager of similarly formatted “Power 96” WPOW-FM Miami will serve as Brand Manager for the newly relaunched station in addition to his role in Miami.
Audacy Regional President Claudia Menegus said, “We’re thrilled to announce the return of this heritage brand and once again give listeners a destination for the hottest Throwback music. Some of these artists and records made 102 JAMZ a local favorite and has stood the test of time as one of the most iconic brands in Orlando. We trust that with Mijo’s leadership, we will create a unique, nostalgic experience for music lovers in Orlando and for every generation to enjoy.”
With the change, Alternative format Regional Vice President Ross Mahoney has exited. Mahoney joined the company in July 2022 to oversee the since-sold KXTE Las Vegas, WQMP, “Alt 96.5” KRBZ-FM Kansas City and “Alt 102.1” WRXL Richmond. Mahoney served as Program Director of then “X107.5” KXTE from 2016 until the company’s restructuring of the Alternative format in September 2020. He previously spent fifteen years at “103.1 The Buzz” WPBZ West Palm Beach rising from weekend host to APD/MD/afternoon host between 1996 and 2011 and also programmed 98.7 WRMR Wilmington NC.