Z104 (WNVZ) morning host Brandon “Shaggy” Stokes ended his 25-year run at the Norfolk station. He announced the departure Thursday evening via Facebook.
What We Know: Stokes thanked listeners for two and a half decades of support. Additionally, he confirmed that his community initiatives—Shaggfest and Stuff the Bus—will continue forward. Moreover, he pledged to stay in the 757 area. He expressed genuine pride in his local media impact throughout his tenure.
What They Said: “I am incredibly proud of what we accomplished together,” Stokes wrote. “I’m grateful that you helped me become someone you trusted to be part of your day.” The DJ emphasized his role as a community servant. Furthermore, he highlighted his journey from local kid to trusted media figure.
What Remains Unclear: Z104 has not yet commented on Stokes’ departure officially. Additionally, organizers have not announced dates for his signature community events. However, questions persist about whether his February DUI and obstruction sentence influenced the decision. The exact cause remains unknown to the public.
What It Means: Norfolk radio loses one of its most recognizable voices immediately. Consequently, Z104 faces significant programming challenges ahead. Meanwhile, the market watches carefully to see Stokes’ next move.
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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.