Bloom Broadcasting has flipped 1330 WGFT in Youngstown, Ohio to Classic Hits. The former ESPN 94.7 is now Star 94.7.
What We Know: After a weekend dog-themed stunt as “Taco 94.7,” the station officially launched its new format Monday, June 8 at noon. The Classic Hits brand actually returns to a familiar place — Star 94.7 previously aired on the frequency from 2014 until April 2025. Owner Karl Bloom converted the station to Sports shortly after acquiring it, making this flip a quick reversal.
What They Said: Bloom is clearly energized by the change. “The new Star 94.7 features the best music from the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s plus much more,” he told RadioInsight. “I’m very excited to bring both the classic hits format and the iconic Star 94.7 branding back to the Mahoning Valley and work with some of the most talented people in the radio industry.” A lineup announcement, he added, is coming soon.
What Remains Unclear: No talent has been announced yet. Bloom confirmed details are forthcoming, but specifics on air staff and programming direction remain unknown. It’s also unclear whether the station will carry any local programming at launch.
What It Means: Youngstown had been without a gold-based pop station since Cumulus flipped Oldies “Z104” WWIZ to AC in April 2025. That left a real gap in the market. Star 94.7’s return directly addresses that void with a format built around familiar hits. If the brand resonates the way it did during its original run, Bloom could be well-positioned to recapture a loyal audience.
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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.
