WFAN’s New Voice: Keith McPherson Takes The Reins As Steve Somers’ Successor
A Changing of the Guard
On January 1, 2023, sports radio station WFAN made a significant change in its lineup, as Keith McPherson took over the midday slot previously held by the legendary Steve Somers. McPherson, a former defensive lineman for the New York Jets, brings a fresh perspective and a wealth of football knowledge to the iconic station. However, the transition from Somers, a beloved figure in the New York sports landscape, has generated mixed reactions from listeners.
The McPherson Era Begins
McPherson, 45, retired from football in 2006 and began his broadcasting career shortly thereafter. He has worked as an analyst for NFL Network and SiriusXM, and has also hosted a podcast with former Jets teammate Mark Gastineau. McPherson is known for his intelligent analysis, engaging personality, and passion for the game of football. His appointment to WFAN is seen by many as a step in the station’s efforts to connect with a younger audience.
Somers’ Legacy
Steve Somers, 77, has been a fixture on WFAN since 1987. His unique style, which blends sports talk with humor and storytelling, has earned him a loyal following. Somers is known for his off-beat interviews, his love of horse racing, and his signature catchphrases, such as “Bad to the bone!” and “Holy cow!” Somers’ departure from his midday slot marks the end of an era for WFAN, and his legacy is sure to be debated for years to come.
Different Styles, Different Audiences
McPherson and Somers represent two very different styles of sports talk. McPherson is a more traditional analyst, providing in-depth breakdowns of games and dissecting player performances. Somers, on the other hand, is more of an entertainer, often relying on humor and personal anecdotes to engage his listeners. Some fans have expressed concern that McPherson’s style may be too serious for the midday slot, while others believe that his football expertise will be a welcome addition to the station.
Early Reviews
The early reviews of McPherson’s tenure at WFAN have been mixed. Some listeners have praised his knowledge and insights, while others have found his delivery a bit dry. It is too early to say how McPherson will ultimately fare in his new role, but it is clear that he has big shoes to fill. Somers’ unique persona and loyal following will be difficult to replicate, and McPherson will need to find his own voice and connect with the audience on his own terms.
The Future of WFAN
The transition from Somers to McPherson is a sign of the times for WFAN. The station is facing increasing competition from streaming services and podcasts, and it needs to adapt to the changing landscape of sports media. McPherson’s appointment suggests that WFAN is looking to appeal to a younger audience, but it remains to be seen whether he can replicate the success of his predecessor. The future of WFAN depends on its ability to strike a balance between tradition and innovation, and McPherson will play a key role in shaping the station’s identity in the years to come.
Perspectives
Keith McPherson’s Perspective
McPherson is excited about the opportunity to host the midday show on WFAN. He believes that his experience as a player and his passion for the game will allow him to connect with listeners in a unique way. McPherson is also eager to learn from the legendary broadcasters who have come before him, and he is determined to make his mark on the station.
Steve Somers’ Perspective
Somers is sad to leave his midday slot, but he is happy to hand the reins over to McPherson. He believes that McPherson has the talent and the work ethic to be successful in this role. Somers is also confident that WFAN will continue to be a successful station under McPherson’s leadership.
Listener Perspective
Listeners have mixed reactions to McPherson’s appointment. Some are excited to hear a new voice on the station, while others are skeptical that he can fill Somers’ shoes. Only time will tell how McPherson will be received by the WFAN audience.
Conclusion
Keith McPherson’s appointment as the new host of WFAN’s midday show is a significant moment in the station’s history. McPherson brings a fresh perspective and a wealth of football knowledge to the iconic station, but he also has the unenviable task of replacing the beloved Steve Somers. The transition from Somers to McPherson is a sign of the times for WFAN, as the station looks to appeal to a younger audience and adapt to the changing landscape of sports media. The future of WFAN depends on its ability to strike a balance between tradition and innovation, and McPherson will play a key role in shaping the station’s identity in the years to come.
