Evanov Communications is leaving its “The Jewel” easy-listening format behind in four markets, moving to rebrand The Jewel 98.5 (CJWL-FM) Ottawa-Gatineau, The Jewel 92.5 (CHRC-FM) Clarence-Rockland, The Jewel 107.7 (CKHK-FM) Hawkesbury, and the Jewel 106.7 (CHSV-FM) Hudson/Saint-Lazare.
The radio group is betting on a Hot Country format flip in Clarence-Rockland and Hawkesbury, with core artists including Blake Shelton, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, Miranda Lambert, and Dean Brody. The Ottawa and Hudson/Saint-Lazare stations take on Lite branding which Evanov says “will retain the best elements of the former Jewel, while skewing younger and be more current in its soft, melodic, pop sound.” The Lite playlist will span the late ’70s to today and feature more current hits from artists like Ed Sheeran, Lady Gaga, Sam Smith and The Weeknd.
“There is no question that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused a shift in some paradigms and forced some adjustments along the way,” said Lars Wunsche, Executive Vice President Sales of Evanov Communications, in a release. “Prior to making the switch, we included advertisers and our sales teams in our strategic conversations, they confirmed the excitement about going forward with the new formats and brands. I have no doubt we have made the right choice for long term success.”
“I have great confidence in our seasoned programming and news team for these four stations, led by Gary Gamble, Ted Silver, Barry Stewart and Brian Sylvester, who, together with our sales team will deliver for listeners, clients and community,” added company President and CEO, Paul Evanov. “We are excited as a company to adjust with the times, always with an eye to the future to ensure we are well poised for a full economic recovery that we hope arrives soon.”
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