Bob Delmont, a seasoned radio personality, is making a triumphant return to the airwaves in the Washington, DC, and Baltimore areas. This move marks a significant homecoming for Delmont, who is rejoining iHeartMedia's WMZQ (98.7) and WPOC (93.1) in a dual on-air role. Delmont's return is a testament to his enduring popularity and the trust he has built with listeners over the years.
Delmont's journey in radio began in Pittsburgh, where he started his career working overnight at WMTZ in Johnstown, PA. He then returned to his hometown, hosting evenings on WDSY (Y108) from 1994 to 1999. His big break came when he joined WPOC in 1999, where he spent 27 years, building a strong connection with the audience.
Now, Delmont is stepping back into the role that launched his career in the Washington market, hosting weekday evenings from 7 pm to midnight on WMZQ. Simultaneously, he will continue his weekday middays from 10 am to 3 pm on WPOC, a shift he has spent almost his entire career on. This dual role is a testament to Delmont's versatility and his ability to connect with listeners across different demographics.
The announcement of Delmont's return has been met with enthusiasm from iHeartMedia. Jeff Kapugi, the Region Senior Vice President of Programming, praised Delmont's talent, stating, 'Bob’s back! He’s one of the best we have, and we are lucky to have him on our DC/Baltimore team!'. Delmont himself expressed his excitement, saying, 'I can’t tell you how excited I am to be working at the mighty 98.7 WMZQ on the shift where it all began for me.'
Delmont's return is not just a personal triumph but also a strategic move for iHeartMedia. By bringing back a beloved local personality, the company is reinforcing its commitment to the community and its listeners. Delmont's ability to connect with people on a personal level will undoubtedly contribute to the station's success and his own longevity in the industry.
In my opinion, Delmont's return is a testament to the power of local radio and the enduring connection between a host and their audience. It raises the question: What makes a radio personality truly successful? Is it the ratings, the awards, or the lasting impact on the community? Delmont's career suggests that it is the latter, and his return to the airwaves is a celebration of that impact.