What We Know: Calhoun signed off following his show yesterday, closing a chapter that began in June 2018. Before joining WMZQ, he served three years as APD at sister station Country 97.5 WAMZ Louisville. Earlier in his career, he programmed iHeart’s Country 102.5 WYNR and CHR WQGA in Brunswick, GA, and Cumulus CHR WLTO in Lexington, KY. His roots trace back to Top 40, starting as an intern at WWWQ Atlanta.
What They Said: Calhoun marked the occasion with a heartfelt farewell. “8 years ago today I started at WMZQ, how time flies. Today is also my last day,” he wrote. He added, “Thank you Jeff Kapugi for giving me this once in a lifetime opportunity & taking a chance on me! Excited for my next chapter coming soon. Just know I won’t forget you.”
What Remains Unclear: Calhoun has not yet disclosed his next role, though he confirmed an announcement is coming soon. It’s also unknown whether iHeartMedia has identified a replacement. Additionally, no timeline has been provided for when his next chapter will officially begin.
What It Means: WMZQ now faces a significant void at a key programming position. Calhoun’s dual role as Music Director and evening host made him a central figure in the station’s identity. His departure signals a transition moment for one of DC’s most prominent Country outlets. Meanwhile, the industry will be watching closely to see where his next move lands.
David Hill serves as a Music Radio Editor, Columnist and Features writer for Barrett Media. A radio lifer with more than 30 years behind the mic, in the control room, and in the program director’s chair, David’s career spans influential stops at brands such as WIYY 98 Rock, WBAL-AM, and 99X. He has worked across multiple formats and ownership groups, including iHeartMedia and Cumulus Media, developing talent, breaking music, and navigating every major industry shift from diary to PPM and terrestrial dominance to streaming disruption. When he’s not writing or analyzing the industry, Dave runs The Tune Farm, a marketing firm built to help artists and brands grow audience the same way great radio always has—by creating connection, not just impressions. He can be reached at David@BarrettMedia.com.
