Kiss recruits big name DJs to lead revamp

by Daniel Farey-Jones, Brand Republic 24-Aug-06, 11:15

LONDON - Emap is to relaunch its Kiss network, with big-name DJs such as Carl Cox and Armin van Buuren signed for weekend nights.

On September 6, Vibe 101 in Bristol will become Kiss 101 and Vibe FM in East Anglia will become Kiss 105-108, as Emap extends the brand beyond London's Kiss 100.

Networked programming will dominate the weekends and late nights, with Cox's funky house and Van Buuren's trance shows joined by 'Kissalicious', presented by Jez Welham and a Sunday morning chillout show called 'FNK'.

Each station will retain a majority of local programming including their own breakfast shows.

However, the future of Kiss 100's breakfast slot remains uncertain following the departure of long-time host Bam Bam in the spring, which it later emerged was due to continued complaints about offensive material on his show.

Robin Banks, who took over on a temporary basis, has not been mentioned in the publicity for the new schedule. An Emap spokeswoman responded to enquiries saying no changes were currently planned in the slot.

Kiss 100 has brought in undiscovered talent for Saturday and Sunday mornings in the shape of Melvin and Rickie, who were previously working behind the scenes at 1Xtra.

As well as new names and a new schedule, there will be greater emphasis on listener interaction -- with some parts of the schedule opened up to allow the listeners to shape the playlist -- rating tracks and choosing what is played next in real time voting via the Kiss website.

The Kiss website will also become the central hub for listeners to post user-generated content ranging from tips on best nightclubs, songs, games and videos. There are also plans to expand opportunities to podcast the best of unsigned talent, as well as content such as DJ mix masterclasses.

Andy Roberts, group programme director of Kiss, said: "I want current listeners to love Kiss even more and new listeners to get excited about discovering Kiss on the radio. The new schedule is a really exciting mix between established local talent; excellent new signings and some superstar names."

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