BREAKING: KFI (640 AM) is making waves with a significant lineup change, announcing the launch of a new show, “Monks and Merrill,”, set to debut on February 17, 2023. This shift marks a bold move for the highest-rated AM station in Los Angeles, as it seeks to reclaim its position in the competitive talk radio landscape.
In an exciting pairing, Chris Merrill, formerly of KTAR in Phoenix, will join forces with Michael Monks, who has been a prominent reporter and host at KFI since 2024. This new program will air from noon to 3 p.m., positioning itself strategically in the afternoon slot. Merrill, who has previously filled in on weekends at KFI, expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating, “When KFI calls, you don’t say no.”
This program shuffle also sees John Kobylt returning to afternoons, and Tim Conway Jr. moving back to evenings from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.. Kobylt remarked, “The universe is back in order,” reinforcing the excitement surrounding these changes.
Listeners can expect a refreshed lineup starting Tuesday, February 17, which will feature:
– Amy King’s “Wake-Up Call,” 5-6 a.m.
– “Bill Handel,” 6-9 a.m.
– “Gary and Shannon,” 9 a.m.-noon
– “Monks and Merrill,” noon-3 p.m.
– “John Kobylt,” 3-6 p.m.
– “Tim Conway Jr.,” 6-10 p.m.
George Noory’s “Coast to Coast AM” will continue to dominate the overnight hours.
The urgency of this announcement reflects KFI’s ongoing efforts to adapt and thrive amid a changing media landscape. As competition intensifies, these strategic moves are critical for maintaining listener engagement and boosting ratings.
Meanwhile, KFI’s legendary figure, Saul Levine, recently celebrated his 100th birthday on February 12. Levine, who founded Mount Wilson FM Broadcasters in 1959, has remained a vital force in the radio industry, advocating for underrepresented music formats. In a recent interview, he expressed gratitude for his career and the opportunities it has afforded him. “I have been blessed to have a lot of [birthdays],” he said, emphasizing his passion for broadcasting.
With KFI’s new lineup and Levine’s enduring legacy, the station’s future looks promising. Fans and listeners are eager to tune in starting February 17 as KFI repositions itself to reclaim its status as a leading talk outlet in Los Angeles.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as KFI continues to shape the radio landscape.
