In a surprising turn of events shaking up Chicago radio, Sonic is taking over the afternoon airwaves on B96! But what does this mean for the station and its listeners? And what's next for the departing Dash? Let's dive in.
The move comes as Audacy prepares to pull the plug on Rhythmic Throwbacks station "104.3 Jams" WBMX. As a result, Sean ‘Sonic’ Leckie, who previously held the afternoon slot at WBMX, will now be sliding into the same afternoon timeslot at sister station CHR “B96” WBBM-FM. This transition coincides with the departure of Jordan ‘Dash’ Weiss, who previously hosted evenings on B96. It's a radio reshuffle of significant proportions, leaving many wondering about the future direction of both stations.
Sonic is no stranger to the Chicago radio scene, having joined Audacy Chicago back in May 2018 to helm afternoons at WBMX. But his radio journey extends far beyond the Windy City. He's built an impressive resume, including stints as Music Director and afternoon/morning host at CHR “Energy 103.7” KEGY in San Diego, afternoon host at “Power 96.1” WWPW in Atlanta, and morning show producer and night host for “Channel 93.3” KHTS in San Diego. And this is the part most people miss: Sonic's voice isn't just confined to Chicago; he's also heard on other Audacy CHR stations across the country, making him a familiar voice to a wide audience.
Dash, on the other hand, had a relatively shorter run at WBBM-FM, having joined in June 2023. He came to B96 from Hubbard Hot AC “101.9 The Mix” WTMX, where he spent three years hosting nights and curating the "New Music Club." His experience also includes on-air and production roles at 100.3 WSHE Chicago, as well as a stint as MD/afternoon host at Alternative 107.1 WPGU in Champaign, IL. But here's where it gets controversial... some listeners felt Dash brought a unique local flavor to B96, something that might be missed with his departure.
Dash shared his thoughts on his departure, stating, “I loved being on B96, we had so much fun during afternoons, every caller was my cohost, we were all from Chicago, me being a native, and boy were there a lot of callers! I worked with AE’s and won the company revenue during just those first potential client interactions, saved clients who had million dollar buys from leaving radio all together, gained the brand millions of organic impressions on social media (former social media manager at the iconic second city), and maintained the highest cume daypart on the station. Proud of my time at B. Sonic is a friend. I hope the best for him and I’m excited for what’s next!” Dash's statement highlights his passion for connecting with listeners and his significant contributions to the station's revenue and social media presence.
Weiss can be reached at LiveWithDash@gmail.com.
So, what do you think about this major radio shakeup in Chicago? Will Sonic bring a fresh energy to B96 afternoons? And what kind of impact will Dash's absence have on the station's connection with its local audience? More importantly, do you think radio stations are doing enough to cultivate local talent and foster a sense of community? Sound off in the comments below!
