Houston Radio Shakeup: Monica “Mo” Lunsford Trades Country for Rock on 94.5 The Buzz
Houston's radio landscape just got a whole lot more interesting! Monica "Mo" Lunsford, a familiar voice to country music fans as a former co-host of The Morning Bullpen on 100.3 The Bull, has resurfaced on 94.5 The Buzz, the city's top rock and alternative station. This unexpected move marks a significant shift for both Lunsford and The Rod Ryan Show, which she's joining as a co-host. But what prompted this genre jump, and what can Houston listeners expect?
The announcement, made early Monday morning, has already generated considerable buzz (pun intended!) across social media. Lunsford fills the vacancy left by Tessa Barrera, who departed in December 2024 for a TV role with KPRC 2's Houston Life. "We are thrilled to have Monica ‘Mo’ start with us on the Rod Ryan Show on 94-5 The Buzz today," said Elliot Wood, KTBZ PD, highlighting Lunsford's talent and market equity. The Rod Ryan Show team also expressed their excitement in an Instagram post: "We are excited about this new beginning and we can't wait to entertain you on your morning."
While a country DJ moving to a rock station might seem unusual, local media blogger Mike McGuff notes that Houston's radio scene is no stranger to format flips. KTBZ PD Elliot Wood said that Lunsford immediately connected with Ryan and show members Alex and Chile. "And now today, the positive feedback and engagement from our social media on this morning – her first day on-air with us – was all positive from both our Buzz and Rod Ryan listeners as well as Mo's fans that found her here on 94-5 The Buzz."
It's also worth noting that Lunsford's former Morning Bullpen co-host, Erik Scott Smith, was scheduled to debut his new show on San Antonio's Y100 on the same day. However, his debut was postponed due to his son's hospitalization. Our thoughts are with Erik and his family during this difficult time.
The addition of Mo Lunsford to The Rod Ryan Show promises a fresh dynamic and a blend of personalities that could attract a broader audience. Will this bold move pay off and solidify The Rod Ryan Show's position as Houston's top morning show? Only time will tell.
What do you think about Mo's move to The Buzz? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!