News Summary
Mark Robertson, the cherished morning host at iHeartMedia’s ‘98.7 The River’ in Savannah, GA, is retiring, marking the end of a remarkable 50-year career in radio. Known for his deep connection with listeners, Robertson has spent 48 years at ‘98.7 The River,’ shaping the station’s sound since its inception in 1977. Andy Woods will take over as the new morning host, bringing over 19 years of experience in radio programming. This transition highlights the ongoing evolution of the radio industry while celebrating Robertson’s legacy in Savannah’s broadcasting community.
Savannah, GA – Mark Robertson, the beloved morning host at iHeartMedia AC “98.7 The River” WYKZ, will officially retire on Friday, July 11, concluding a remarkable 50-year career in radio. Known for his engaging personality and deep connection with listeners, Robertson has been instrumental in shaping the sound of the station for almost five decades, spending 48 of those years at “98.7 The River” since its inception in 1977.
Throughout his tenure, Robertson has not only served as a morning host but also played a crucial role as the Production Director for iHeartMedia Savannah. His contributions to the station have helped foster a loyal audience and a welcoming community atmosphere, making “98.7 The River” a staple in Savannah radio.
As Robertson steps down, Andy Woods is set to take over as the new morning host. Woods joined Midlands Media Group Country “94.3 The Dude” WUDE earlier this year as the Brand Manager and afternoon host. He brings a wealth of experience to the position, having previously worked for 19 years at iHeartMedia Country 97.5 WCOS in Columbia, where he served as the Assistant Program Director and afternoon host.
The transition comes at a time when radio is adapting to changing listener habits while maintaining traditional formats. Woods’ experience in radio programming is expected to offer a fresh perspective as he steps into his new role at “98.7 The River.”
Mark Robertson’s retirement not only marks a significant career milestone for him but also represents a turning point for “98.7 The River.” Since its early days, the station has undergone various changes in branding while remaining a vital player in the local radio landscape. Robertson witnessed and participated in these transformations, establishing a legacy of continuity amidst change.
The radio industry has evolved substantially over the past five decades, with technological advances altering how audiences consume content. However, Robertson’s ability to adapt and engage listeners helped him thrive through these changes, securing his place as a respected figure in Savannah’s broadcasting community.
In line with Robertson’s retirement, current trends in radio scheduling and content strategy are being discussed amongst industry professionals. Lance Venta, a veteran of the radio industry and founder of RadioInsight.com, has noted that stations like “98.7 The River” are continuously exploring innovative ways to connect with their audiences. As radio evolves, the role of seasoned hosts like Robertson becomes pivotal in guiding younger personalities like Woods into their new positions.
The transition period following Robertson’s departure will likely reflect on both the station’s legacy and the anticipated changes under Woods’ leadership. For fans of “98.7 The River,” the end of an era is met with both nostalgia and excitement for what lies ahead.
Listeners are encouraged to tune in to the broadcast as the station prepares to welcome its new morning host. With a legacy spanning half a century, Mark Robertson’s contributions to “98.7 The River” and Savannah radio will undoubtedly be remembered as influential in shaping the local culture.
As July 11 approaches, Robertson’s team and the entire iHeartMedia Savannah community celebrate his achievements, while also looking forward to new beginnings with Andy Woods at the helm of the morning show. This significant change not only marks an end of a legendary chapter but also unfolds a new story for “98.7 The River.”
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- Radio Insight: Mark Robertson to Retire from WYKZ
- Wikipedia: Radio
- Radio Insight
- Google Search: Radio Industry Trends
- Wikipedia: Listener
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Radio
- iHeartMedia
- Google News: Radio Broadcasting
- Radio Insight Headlines
- Google Scholar: Radio Communication
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