94.9 The Bull just filled two key seats. Atlanta’s top Country station has a new program director and a new afternoon voice.
What We Know
iHeartMedia Atlanta announced two leadership moves Monday for 94.9 The Bull, the market’s top Country station. Ashley Layfield steps in as Program Director after leading content strategy at iHeartMedia Tampa’s US103.5. Meanwhile, Corey Calhoun joins as afternoon host, arriving from WMZQ in Washington, D.C. Additionally, Calhoun previously worked in Atlanta, Louisville, Lexington, and Brunswick throughout his career.
What They Said: Jill Strada, iHeartMedia’s Executive Vice President of Programming, called both hires transformative for the brand. “Corey’s experience across multiple markets, combined with his passion for Country music and audience engagement, makes him a perfect fit for afternoons on 94.9 The Bull, while Ashley is one of the most respected programming leaders in our industry,” Strada said. She added that together, the pair represents “the future of this brand.”
What Remains Unclear: The full scope of Layfield’s programming vision remains unknown for now. It’s also unclear whether 94.9 The Bull plans further staffing moves this year. Furthermore, neither executive detailed a formal start date for either hire. Listeners may simply need to wait for transition specifics.
What It Means: This move signals iHeartMedia’s continued investment in Country radio talent. Layfield’s track record in Tampa and Orlando suggests strong direction ahead for the station. Likewise, Calhoun’s return to Atlanta adds hometown roots to the afternoon slot.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.
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.
