Johnny B. On the Loose

Jonathan Brandmeier, last heard on talker KLSX 97.1 ("The FM Talk Station") is back on the air in Los Angeles starting April 19. Also known as "Johnny B," Brandmeier is taking over the morning drive slot (5:30 am - 10 am) on Infinity-owned KCBS 93.1 ("Arrow 93").

Brandmeier was a legend in his native Chicago, but has had less success breaking into the Los Angeles market. The radio jock also hosted a short-lived late night syndicated TV talk show in the early 90s. He replaces Joe Benson, who's been hosting a music-intensive show in the mornings on Arrow 93; Benson now moves to afternoons.

The hiring would seem to put to rest rumors that Arrow was about to flip to a top 40 format; KCBS' classic rock format appears to be safe for now. That's actually too bad; I was looking forward to seeing KIIS-FM finally get a mainstream competitor. With Rick Dees gone, KIIS's ratings are pretty vulnerable at the moment.