Social media lit up last weekend with news that The Rickey Smiley Morning Show would end in Dallas and no longer be heard on 97.9 The Beat. Early reports erroneously reported that the show would be replaced with a revival of sorts for the “Mark in the Morning” (which ended last year) fueling rumors of a format change, but the syndicated show which began in Dallas has been replaced by talent at the Dallas station, Veda Loca. Smiley had no time for bitterness or shade, but set the tone in the video by addressing the change purely as a business decision.
Watch the video, below.
With syndication ruling the airwaves, the move came as a huge shock, though many listeners loathe ‘piped in’ shows which currently dominate the landscape of local radio. Many listen to Smiley’s morning show and watch the show’s segments on “Dish Nation” later in the day, so the unexpected and unprecedented move comes as a shock to listeners who have taken to social media to express their shock, anger and to demand Smiley’s return.
Smiley being the great sport he is returned the favor in kind. In a nearly 10 minute live video, he encouraged listeners to instead of actually support Veda Loca and her new morning show. Recounting her support to the team in its infancy which began at the station, Smiley stated repeatedly how deserving of the prominent time slot (dominated by men) he feels Veda Loca is.
As we’ve grown to expect from Rickey Smiley, he didn’t deliver his message without a little preach to it. Smiley told viewers of the video to understand the importance of letting some things go in order to receive new ones. He let viewers know that he’s currently on a press tour for his newest book “Stand By Your Truth” and has no time for bitterness when he’s actually increasing.
Smiley will no longer be on the air in Dallas- a top five media market in America, but remains on the other markets he is currently heard in. Other rumors speculated that the show would be going away altogether, which is unfounded.
Smiley encouraged everyone to give Veda Loca a chance, which is what he got when Steve Harvey left the market in Dallas. He stands by the station’s decision and encourages listeners to continue supporting the station. That’s how you handle change, embrace it!
You can still see all the team’s antics on “Dish Nation” and follow them on their very active social channels!
First of all, we the listening audience doesn’t need to reminded that Rickey Smiley is a “Class-Act”, hell, we know that, that would be one of the reasons we listen to him. He exemplifies class, humbleness, humility and gratitude, which is a characteristic so many other radio personalities are void of. Secondly, because I don’t have twitter, I can’t speak on what is told to us that Rickey stated himself, as for the reason he has exited stage left. I understand and agree that people can reach pinnacles in their life that prompt movement for them to elevate in life. However, I’m also acutely aware that MAN will cut you off at the knees before it’s your time to leave said situation. I believe in Karma and 97.7 THE BEAT, you dumb A’s will reap a dead, stagnant and unproductive harvest for this foolishness. This decision is a disservice to the DFW community and our lack of support will prove such sooner rather than later. Speaking for myself, I, for one, am not happy about this ignorant change and I have deleted your station out of my vehicle listening catalog. Whoever, made this decision is a FOOL and should be FIRED with the quickness.
I agree Roni, I like Rickey and there is substance to his show. Veda Loco is hood and i cant stand her afternoon show.
I agree with you 1000%…..I already don’t listen to K104 and now I won’t be listening to 97.9……..nothing is funny about ANY of those personalities!!!!!!