Country 95.3 Quits Country

Published November 13, 2009 @ 15:19 in Radio

radioCountry 95.3, a station with the call letters CING-FM broadcasting out of Hamilton, Ontario, billed itself as "Canada's Most Listened To Country Station". I didn't know that until exactly two minutes ago when I found out they've flipped formats. Country 95.3 is now The New 95.3: Southern Ontario's Greatest Hits.

"Southern Ontario's Greatest Hits" apparently means classic hits, or oldies if you prefer. There's no market in southern Ontario for country music, even if it's "Canada's Most Listened To Country Station".

Recent Toronto area radio ratings revealed there really is nobody listening. They scored a 1.1, the lowest score this side of CP24 Radio 1050.

Farewell New Country 95.3. I hardly knew thee...

468 Responses to "Country 95.3 Quits Country"

Phil Evans
November 13, 2009 / 15:55

Full circle! The call letters CING originally attributed to FM 108 - which was an oldies station out of Burlington. It became Energy 108, then flipped frequencies with Y95 in Hamilton - Y95 became Y108, Energy 108 became Country 95.3

Cambo
November 13, 2009 / 16:39

I don't think Oldies will fly either. Everyone tunes in to hear their fav, then once they do they'll go back to what they were on before. There's a reason no one has done it!!
Sadly the days of Y95.3 with Scott Thompson, Lori Love, Lumby et al are long done.

Kick ass signal with nothing to play on it.

Garth
November 13, 2009 / 17:08

When I lived in Brantford Y95.3 was my favorite rock station....comparable to Q107. Whatever happened to Lori Love?

Steve
November 13, 2009 / 18:46

Lori does mornings at EZ Rock St. Catharines with Jack Peets (ex-HTZ FM)

Burlington Andy
November 13, 2009 / 18:53

Would rather they went back to the old Energy format. My kids loved it, and they had some of the old cfny'ers after cfny blew up.

Jay
November 13, 2009 / 19:12

Cambo... you're going to be so wrong. Classic Hits/Oldies stations on the FM dial have been doing amazing in the West. XL103 in Calgary, Capital FM in Edmonton and 104.9 FM in Vancouver.

This is the first time a true Oldies format is on the FM dial for GTA. Should do well, and since it's a Corus station Q107 should maintain its superiority. This is the format Jack should have flipped to instead of Top 40! Rogers missed a good chance to really stick it to Q.

Good luck to 95.3!

papa_rocker
November 13, 2009 / 19:17

I guess the 95.9 people are happy now...the only country radio in the entire GTA and surrounding area

Liz
November 13, 2009 / 20:52

A score of 1.1? I don't know about you, but I was never asked what station I listen to? and I know of a lot of people that listen to it to...well even more before they fired Mookie!!

Pam
November 13, 2009 / 22:17

I for one will truly miss the new country 95.3 - I believe there are a lot of people like myself who will miss this station - just look at their record, Canada day jams, community outreach fundraisers and all the country artists that spent so much time with us they began to feel like family - it is truly sad that the #1 country music station in Canada cannot keep a float - I am not lucky enough to get 95.9 where I live and can only get it when I get close to Toronto - there are no other stations in my area to listen to - I will not listen to yet another oldies station - thank goodness I have my ipod - I think i am off listening to the radio anymore

Sheila
November 13, 2009 / 22:58

I'm with you Pam. The last thing this area needed was another Rock station--oldies or not. This was the only Country station that we could listen to in Hamilton. Now there's nothing. I am so disappointed in this station for changing formats. Country music is HUGE. Talk about bad judgement. I hope the station goes belly up!

chris
November 13, 2009 / 23:14

not right! i'm not hanging up my cowboy hat so wtf. what am i going to listen to now.

Peem
November 13, 2009 / 23:19

It's really hard to imagine the ratings were so low except for Toronto. What about the area surrounding Toronto? Travel East or travel West on the 401 and all you pick up is Country Music. Go north on the 400 and pick up Country Music. The majority of new top hits are from country singers so the 1.1 ratings are really hogwash. (Country expression) The new format will return .05 ratings and the station will once again be sold. Maybe Rogers Cable from Toronto can turn it into a 24 hour commercials station and the Toronto Listeners can bring the ratings up to A 4 OR 5.

Now we all have to tune into those remote stations to hear good country music. Or better still while it's still alive, Internet Radio at 128 Kbps download. What a shame, but that's Toronto for you.

Kris
November 13, 2009 / 23:59

I really liked this station- it was better than 95.9 in durham, but that's all we've got now-

This new format will never fly.

whatever...

Jared T
November 14, 2009 / 01:32

This is just horrible. I also have no idea where that 1.1 rating comes from, seems fishy.

Country 95.3 was a fantastic radio station and a great refuge from the kind of radio 95.3 has now become. How many times do we really need to hear 'Band on the Run'? Because of the completely tactless way this was done, Corus will be tuned out on my dial.

Jared T
November 14, 2009 / 01:33

This is just horrible. I also have no idea where that 1.1 rating comes from, seems fishy.

Country 95.3 was a fantastic radio station and a great refuge from the kind of radio 95.3 has now become. How many times do we really need to hear 'Band on the Run'? Because of the completely tactless way this was done, Corus will be tuned out on my dial.

Rick C in Oakville
November 14, 2009 / 06:47

I've been a convert to new Country for the last year and really looked forward to my drives home etc. to listen to it, until last night, was hearing the Spoons that old emotion being played and got a sick feeling in my stomach that something was changing.

This stations staff worked hard for the community as mentioned, live broadcasts for the Oakville Humane society, many interviews with artists. Lea and Paul seemed very folksy and real compared to Roger, Marilyn and Darren etc. (Can't even listen to CHUM FM anymore since they can't figure out what music format they want to play, Dance, Hip Hop with some Police, Bon Jovi etc. geezzus make up your mind)
Real local advertising like the Newfy shop in Toronto, etc.
Being in the west end 96 country is too weak to tolerate, maybe they can put up more juice so we can get the signal.

As mentioned before Toronto isn't the only market, they had Woodstock and all the surrounding country near Hamilton. They are entering a crowded market and really do we need another soft rock/oldies aka 98.1 etc.

I guess I need to get my Sirius reconnected

Wayne
November 14, 2009 / 07:02

I am sad to lose my favourite radio station. This was the station most often heard on many radios in workplaces, construction sites, and shops. I guess we in Niagara will all have to tune into USA country out of Buffalo. I will miss all of you Canadian country artists.

Toni
November 14, 2009 / 07:35

I am really disappointed that 95.3 is no longer a country station. Where do we turn to now? I am not convinced that their ratings were that low, come on! Put country music back on the radio!!!

Darlene
November 14, 2009 / 07:36

I am extremely disappointed that we have lost 95.3 Country. I know a lot of people who listened to it. I can't believe it got a 1.1 rating. I like to live in the "now" not the "past". I will not be tuning into the Classics.

MARY
November 14, 2009 / 08:07

ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

GOODBYE

debbie
November 14, 2009 / 08:22

I moved here from thunder bay On in may and was happy to find a country station. Time to brush off my sirius radio once again!

Neil
November 14, 2009 / 08:58

I too am really going to miss Country 95.3. I dont see the need for another "greatest hits" station. I was also pissed at the way they changed over, as I was listening when it happened, and nothing was said, just instantly changed! Go figure.

Sue
November 14, 2009 / 09:14

I listen to 95.3 on a daily basis. I tuned in last night at work and, where is my music. I am truely sad about loosing this great country station. Where do I go now.This is very dissapointing.

CQ
November 14, 2009 / 09:54

http://www.torontomike.com/2002/11/grunge_forever.html#comment-88541
It's all in the execution rather than the format. I enjoyed listening to Oakville's CHAM 820, on a weak AM signal, when it was old country; but the song selection was too repetitive.

Lynda
November 14, 2009 / 09:56

I've looked all over for another country station. I can't figure out where those ratings came from. I listen to it on the way to and from work and it played in the background at work. I won't be listening to the new station. 95.3 successfully blew away 820 CHAM from the country format and now without ANY warning they leave all there loyal listeners hanging out to dry. I will never listen to another Chorus station again.

Sue
November 14, 2009 / 09:59

Hey! What the &*%$!!!
Where is the 95.3 were used too! Who was the brains behind this changed format/line-up.
This was a great station to listen too and now we are left with yet another oldies station. As a new listener to the 'New Country' it was a fantastic station and the commentary was fun -- 95.3 will be sadly missed!
I too find it hard to believe that the rating score was so low. Did they include all the areas for the rating or just Toronto???

Sara
November 14, 2009 / 10:08

Absolutely angry.... what the heck?

Definitely have no interest in the new format.

Later 95.3. sirius it is.

Toronto Mike
November 14, 2009 / 10:22

Hey CQ, thank for linking to the very first entry on this blog. 9483 entries and 7 years ago...

Rick C in Oakville
November 14, 2009 / 10:32

Are not any of the Radio Station owners happy with a niche market anymore. They are going to be fighting for the same middle of the road advertisers 104.5. 99.9, 98.1 etc. are fighting for.
Unfortunately every industry has it's heavyweights, Corus is one of them and can make the changes to fit their bottom line, not the listeners preference. With all the big Country Acts coming through Toronto and Hamilton the last year, I believe 95.3 had a large presence in getting the New Country format out there. It caught my ear for sure.

Toronto Sun
November 14, 2009 / 10:33

Mamas, don't let your babies grow up to like cowboy music.

At least not around Toronto.

One of the GTA's last country music stations, the New Country 95.3, rode off into the sunset yesterday afternoon after seven years as Canada's most listened to country station.

Going from a little bit country to a little bit rock 'n' roll, the Hamilton-based FM station was relaunched around 3 p.m. yesterday as the New 95.3.

Suzanne Carpenter, general manager of Corus Radio Hamilton, said the time was right for a change.

"(The format change) is a business decision and it is about growing the business," Carpenter told the Sun yesterday.

She hopes the station's loyal listeners will stick around for the new format that will feature "the greatest of the great."

"It's timeless music that everybody can enjoy," Carpenter said.

A statement on the former station's website vowed that the new format will feature "all the Greatest Hits from the '60s, '70s and '80s," including The Stones, The Beatles, Chicago, Boston, The Doors, Blondie and Fleetwood Mac.

The last song for the country format was Garth Brooks' The Dance and within the first half-hour of the new format, the station was playing a rather appropriate Queen song: Another One Bites the Dust.

Josh
November 14, 2009 / 10:46

A sad, sad day for country fans in the GTA...there is a market, we want a new country music station!!!

Cass
November 14, 2009 / 10:53

I'm with everyone who is saying that 95.3 is their favourite radio station. What are us country listeners going to do now? And contrary to what this blog says, I Would argue that there is a country music following in Southern Ontario. Everyone I know listens. Deeply disappointed and sad. I'll no longer be listening to easy rock or whatever they're billing it on the new 95.3. Absolute crap

Bren
November 14, 2009 / 10:57

this is really bad no country to listen to what were they thinking, there are a lot of fans out there!!!!!!

Lisa
November 14, 2009 / 11:01

I am so sad....I will be listening to my ipod that will be loaded with country music rather than listen to another Oldies station.

Mike
November 14, 2009 / 11:07

I think they are making a huge
mistake there is nothing to seperate them from the rest of the herd.What happens to the staff and the upcoming concerts? I hope all there advertising dries up! It will be XM radio all the way for me

Jane H of Toronto
November 14, 2009 / 11:08

This was a COMPLETE shock to both my boyfriend and I when we discovered "Country" 95.3 had disappeared into thin air!!! :(

We BOTH love country music and were regular listeners of the station, especially on the morning drives to work. My experience yesterday was EXACTLY like Rick C's from Oakville, in that I happened to tune in while in the car and realized I was listening to "Old Emotions" by The Spoons (who I did use to like in the 80's, but certainly have never heard on Country 95.3!!!!)...and I, too, got that SICK feeling in my gut that 'something was wrong here'...I just kept looking down at the radio and reciting the numbers to myself..95.3..95.3...yes, I know I have it on the right station...well, WRONG! As soon as we got home yesterday evening, the internet confirmed for us that our Country radio station was GONE. With NO WARNING, at all!!! As if they KNEW the uproar they'd have to deal with, or something...

I'm so pissed and diappointed...GUARANTEED I won't be listening to the 'New-and-dull-as-dishwater' 95.3 on any of my radios!

Us fans should get together and create a station of our OWN, for god's sakes!!! I can tell you the next company that has the balls and good sense to introduce a new country station to the GTA and surrounding areas will have a HUGE amount of grateful and loyal fans just WAITING for SALVATION!!! I just wish that I/we were able to hear from one of the staff or personalities from Country 95.3 as to when they first found out, and how they feel about the move. I bet it would have been incredibly hard for them to keep this info secret from the fans, if they knew what would be going down on November 13th and the sh** way it was handled.

CORUS RADIO CAN KISS MY A**!!

Dave
November 14, 2009 / 11:12

This really sucks !!! Suzanne, you've taken the best station on radio and turned it into another boring same old station as every other one on the dial. Country music is on the rise. I certainly won't be tuning in to 95.3 anymore.

RICHARD - STONEY CREEK
November 14, 2009 / 11:16

I was extremely saddened and disappointed to find out that you are changing your music format your all country to the greatest hits of the 60's....until now.

You were a pleasure to listen to at any time of the day, early morning (wake up), to late evening. The listeners knew what to expect.

Now, you are no different then any other music radio station, Y108, KISS, 97.3, 99.9.......

This change in music format should have been advertised/broadcasted to your loyal listener who probably would have objected to this radical change in music format.

You leave us country listeners with a void....here can we get our fix of country music now?

From what I have heard of your music format, I do not like it....it is disappointing.

I had to console my better half since she was crying and wondering out loud how she would get her daily fix of country music. Listening to your station made every thing right in her life. How are we going to be able to keep up with what is happening in country music.

In my opinion your format change suck the big one....My feels are reflective of what other country music listener are thing out there.

Pat Newmarket
November 14, 2009 / 11:19

I'm stunned. It's a sad day! Bad choice on their part, I don't see the station succeeding.

Lindsay
November 14, 2009 / 11:29

I dont believe those ratings one bit. Businesses even played that station!! It was a popular station, I just can't believe that no one listened to it. I actually remember back when it was y95 so i think its kinda hilarious.

Wendy
November 14, 2009 / 12:03

I tuned in yesterday & "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" was blaring from my radio. I thought they were promoting one of their "Girls Night Out". I was very disappointed to hear that country 95.3 is no longer. Where are all the loyal listeners to go???? I am particularly going to miss the Canada Day Jam. RIP Country 95.3. I will NOT be tuning into Southern Ontario's...blah blah blah.

Carol
November 14, 2009 / 12:09

GUESS WHAT??? This isn't the FIRST time this Suzanne Carpenter and CORUS RADIO HAMILTON has been involved with something like this:

http://www.thespec.com/article/290029

Just found this article from 2007 that starts out like this...

Doug Foley
The Hamilton Spectator
(Dec 1, 2007)

Off the air and out the door is how local radio personality Chris McLeod described his last day at Y-108.....(sounds FAMILIAR????)

garth
November 14, 2009 / 12:11

what happened to country 95.3?

Karen in North York
November 14, 2009 / 12:26

I just logged in to listen on-line, only to find out the station is gone? WTF? I LOVED this station!! I definitely won't be tuning into its replacement. I'm still in shock...

Karen
November 14, 2009 / 12:37

I am truly irate!! This was my station for a very long time, my two boys listen to it as well. They said they can't even find any new country on the radio now. It has to be pure CRAP that their ratings were that low. Everyone I know loves this station we all listen to it. I have won tickets to concerts on the station. Their video dance parties are great in the small communities where I live. Shame on them for forgetting about their listeners that they did have. The new format sucks and I would love to know what happens now to Lea and Paul and Laura and Derek. I guess Bob Steele left in the nick of time. I am even wiping their website out of my favourites.

Sandra in NIagara
November 14, 2009 / 12:44

I do not believe the ratings excuse-there is no way with all the listeners in the GTA, Hamilton, Niagara and the surrounding areas that it was that low. I don't really want to listen to the Buffalo station, but we can pick it up here, so I guess that will have to do for my fix of country. I will not be listening to 95.3 new whatever, or any other corus station either. RIP country 95.3

Chris
November 14, 2009 / 13:00

WTF they thinkn .....now where exactly is it that you listen to the songs that you once enjoyed?

It's me
November 14, 2009 / 13:47

The only thing that I can say about this province "YOU SUCK" Country is where it's at so up yours Ontario I chose Country. Time to buy more Country CD'S.

Gary
November 14, 2009 / 13:48

I am surprised by this. Not for me...but almost everyone of my mother-in-laws neighbours listened to that station. Everytime we went to visit her, we always heard 95.3 everywhere. Are the ratings right???

Colin
November 14, 2009 / 13:51

I am a Comedian and I love my Country music and if this means that I'll have to pull the reigns way out from 95.3!! Well then GOODBYE to you.

Dag
November 14, 2009 / 13:58

Hey listen, I have heard all of that old crap when it used to be any good, but these are differant times now so get with the program, Country is so huge and versitile I love it. The rates you are saying is at 1.1 that's a lie and you are liars. That's right I am calling you liars. I will listen to New Yorks Country from now on and boycott 95.3. A whole bunch of people feel the way I do and you are just a hand full of indivioduals that pull the strings, but wait! we are the ones that really pull the strings. Lets see how long you will last for pulling such a stunt.

Anonymous
November 14, 2009 / 14:08

95.3 Is now the nowhere station. Stop listening to this station from now on. New York has a couple of Country Stations. Who ever took over this station now must really hate country music, that's ok country can't stand you neither. All the rotten misfortune's to your lousy station and music of the past.

LEN WINTERS
November 14, 2009 / 14:12

very upset with you people.why do we need another rock station.we have enough of them.we do not have any country station,s now.we want our country music station back.it all come,s down to the almighty dollar. and the people that think they kmow what people want.again i say we want our country music station back

Jed
November 14, 2009 / 14:20

If you guys think that people want to sing kumbaya to gogether in a circle along with the music of the past!!! well think again....... Get our country station back and our websites with our contests and great country artists of today. Good day, I said Good day!!!!!!!!!!!!!

marg murray
November 14, 2009 / 14:24

how can hamilton host the cmas when we don, even have a contry station to listen to.you people need to bang your head against the wall.we want our country music station back.down with rock and roll.give us our country music back

Jennifer
November 14, 2009 / 14:24

Rest in peace, 95.3. You were professional and very entertaining. There is now a huge void in GTA - 95.9 reception sucks!

Nancy - Cambridge
November 14, 2009 / 14:27

I was very disappoint to find out 95.3 is no longer Country. And what a crappy way to change format. Won't be listening to the New 95.3 nor any other Corus station.

E.C.
November 14, 2009 / 14:34

Hello, 95.3 has been taken away from people who loved country for at least 5 generations. I don't understand one thing, is how could one or more group of individuals can decide what other people want! tha sound Capitalistic and not democratic. I love Country music and I always have, I have some very good friends that are Country Artists and taking this station away from the people also takes this away from the Artists as well, I mean the connection between the Fans and the Artists. Well! all I can say at this point is that Southern Ontario dose not have a country radio station and that is not a good thing to pull on people. I along side of many of my Artist friends and Musicians will stay away from your station, not for personal reasons but ethical ones. Many of you know who I am here but most know me very well. I don't play games I mean what I say, and I say this station will not last past this weekend.

Mike
November 14, 2009 / 14:38

What a shock tuning into 95.3 and hearing some crappy disco song.

For those in the K-W area and fringes, check out Kix 106 at 106.7. I've always preferred them to 95.3 but listened to both at various times. Unfortunately their range is not very wide. Perhaps they will use this as impetus to increase their range.

brad
November 14, 2009 / 14:41

hell hath no fury like a country music fan scorned!

Marg
November 14, 2009 / 15:05

Can still remember tuning into Country 95.3 for the first time about 5 years ago when I heard this really catchy song. You might of heard of it. Toby Keith singing "Whisky Girl". I fell in love and have been a huge fan of Country music ever since. Now, I've been set adrift with no ship in sight. Can't believe all the Country artists would come to the GTA if there wasn't a fan base to support it. Really frustrated with Corus Management! How dare you take away "our" genre. Now I understand the lyrics in American Pie ....that's when the music died...11/13/09 at 3 pm.

Ed
November 14, 2009 / 15:06

It's not that there's no market in southern Ontario for country music. It's that 95.3 had the most saccharin selection of New Country imaginable, with the same half dozen songs played over and over again. There might be a market for real country music, but that would mean adding some gritty Texas songwriters to the music rotation. New Country has no soul and, as a consequence, almost no audience.

A MESSAGE TO OUR LISTENERS...
November 14, 2009 / 15:15

And now I'm glad I didn't know
The way it all would end, the way it all would go
Our lives are better left to chance; I could have missed the pain
But I'd have had to miss the dance
- Garth Brooks "The Dance"


The New Country 95.3 wants to thank you, our faithful listeners for being our dance partners these past seven years. We couldn't have become Canada's most listened to country station without your loyal support. And while it was a great ride, it's time to introduce the next chapter in the ongoing history of the New 95.3.

The New 95.3 is now playing all the Greatest Hits from the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. It’s upbeat, fun and will have you singing along to all your favourite tunes! You’ll flash back to memories of your first kiss…your first slow dance, your first car… those rights of passage that we all share! So sit back and enjoy the greatest of the greats…The Stones, The Beatles, Chicago, Boston, The Doors, Blondie, Fleetwood Mac…we could go on and on but you’re probably already thinking of all your favourite bands…count on it, you’ll hear them!


And please hang onto all your Country Club points. We'll be introducing a new VIP Listener club where you can put your points to use in the very near future!

On behalf of the New 95.3, welcome aboard!!

Anonymous
November 14, 2009 / 15:22

Ed. you haven't a clue as to what you are talking about, country music today has just as much substance as before or more than ever, I know what I'm talikng about I am todays biggest Canadian country that ever made the big times in Country music. I don't know what you base your theory on, if you're comparing todays Artists to days gone by! then you're living in a bubble. We are people with huge Talents, I'd like to see you come out and try to do what we do ED.

Anonymous
November 14, 2009 / 15:27

You know what you can do with your messege board and screw your welcome aboard crap with all that in the past music. PAST and that's where it belongs. There are enough stations that play all of that stuff accross southern ontario but now we have ZERO for Country. Now are the Country Artists not welcome here any longer? it looks like that.

Where dose Country Music Fit in?
November 14, 2009 / 15:38

Is there any room for country music in Southern Ontario anymore? I went and purchased a Sirious Radio and am paying a monthly fee just to listen to what ever American Country Station available there are tons. And I tune into Vancouvers JR Country now. I flick you 95.5 just like that.

Chris
November 14, 2009 / 15:38

Hey that's great, A really new oldies station in the GTA - just what we needed, how original. What a load of crap. Country 95.3 was a terrific station, good music, community involvement, loyal listeners. I can listen to the stuff the 'New' 95.3 plays anywhere. Suzanne Carpenter - you screwed it up before and you've screwed it up again.

Anonymous
November 14, 2009 / 15:45

Nobody's Listening to your station. We all want our Country Music back and we'll pretend that nothing ever happened here. And Suzanne Carpenter, I sure hope that you have learned your lesson and if you are too smug to realize it than maybe by becoming homless you might get it.You need to become homeless for at least the rest of your life.

wrgerry
November 14, 2009 / 15:49

Wow...just wow. LOVED the post 'A message to our listeners' Reminds me of the same old slop force-fed to me at work by our head office. It's like watching CBC as they sign off from a hockey game and say "And now...stay with us for the greatest moments in Competitive Chess!" We need niche programming...we all do! It's why we have restaurants for every taste and clothes for every style. We do not all want to listen to Blondie and Bon Jovi over and over and over!!! Personally, I am disgusted!!!

Cal
November 14, 2009 / 16:02

If they called it the New Country Radio Station, then what is it called now? the new oldies 95.3 Radio Station, bullshit. I've heard enough of all that crap too many times as repeats for over 40 years.

Ruth
November 14, 2009 / 16:14

What a shock to turn on the radio (always set to 95.3) and NOT hear country! I kept staring at the radio dial to make sure that I had it on the right station and, unfortunately, it was. This is a huge mistake by Corus--as others have said, there are numerous oldies stations in Southern Ont. and we sure don't need another one!! What we do need is a country station! There are a lot of country fans in Southern Ont. and they all listened to 95.3. So...here's an opening for someone who wants to start a radio station--just make it country!! But then, maybe Corus will admit that they made a mistake (OK, I can dream). I miss you Country 95.3!!!!

Linda
November 14, 2009 / 16:51

How absolutely disappointing! There are already too many oldies stations; 95.3 will just be another one - one that I won't be listening to. Bring back Country 95.3!

Marlene
November 14, 2009 / 16:58

I'm am so disappointed (& dare I say angry at the way it was abruptly taken off the air!) I couldn't agree more with Pam & Sheila above and others, that the last thing we need is yet another Greatest Hits Pop/Rock station. I also love that genre, but we have plenty of choice in that regard. The New Country 95.3 was unique to this area. Now we are left high & dry! Stupid business decision. I, too, hope they go under. P.S. I wasn't contacted when they conducted their so-called audience survey!

Survay???
November 14, 2009 / 17:11

There was no survay taken, that's a ploy so they can cheat out the crowd and make us feel stupid and disregard us as shit to be flushed down the toilet. But without the listeners you dumb jack ass's where will you be then. We're not stupid like you'd love to believe that we are. We are not like people used to be in the day and take things for what it is.We have a choice we'll take it, we want our Country Station back, any new station will do now, screw you 95.3

Tasha
November 14, 2009 / 17:17

WTF!!!?
I was totally shocked when I tuned in to me favorite country station 95.3 to listen to during my morning commute only to discover the crap that were playing! golden oldies.... Are you kidding me? Who wants to listen to elevator music?
YOU SUCK NOW and I will now listen to 95.9 instead. Bad choice of format on your part and I hope you go belly up.

Ruth
November 14, 2009 / 17:27

The more I think about what Corus has done about changing the format of Country 95.3 the angrier I get! I certainly won't be listening to the New 95.3! Unfortunately, my only option is to listen to my CDs for country music (which isn't all that bad except I won't hear any of the new songs) when I'm in the car as I can't get either 106.5 or 95.9. Hopefully they'll increase their signal or another station will see the light and give us what we want!!!

Cynthia from Brampton
November 14, 2009 / 17:30

Life is stressful enough, I thought for sure the one reliable station I could count on to make me smile was when I listened to the d-jays on 95.3. I only have been listening to my favorite radio station-playing my favorite country music for 2 years. I could not have imagined that someone could be so heartless to pull the plug on country music greatest
artists. You say it's time for a change???????? THAT IS ONLY YOUR OPINION!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You claimed that 95.3 was Canada's most listened to radio station - Are you a liar
then? Do you know what false advertising means?????????????????
You have really pissed off alot of people and I hope that this new format goes belly up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

TEX
November 14, 2009 / 17:43

I have been listening to 95.3 since it was introduced for our country listening pleasure,Suzanne Carpenter hopes listeners will stick around to listen to timeless music that everone will enjoy, BULLSHIT!!! it's not country and it sucks, i will not listen, and will now have to buy satelite radio so screw them all.

Lynda
November 14, 2009 / 18:21

On my way home from work I thought that something was wrong with the stereo. I couldn't concentrate on driving while trying to find 95.3 New Country. It was getting very upsetting and realized today what happened.
I am sick. We do not need another oldies station. Country music is my life line
and I feel such a great loss in my life. Please bring it back. This is as bad as losing a loved one.

Ram
November 14, 2009 / 18:24

Where is my country 95.3, come back to me, it’s very hard to be living without hearing you, where do I go now!

Deborah
November 14, 2009 / 18:54

I'm very disappointed. Not even the courtesy to tell your listeners, so much for listener loyalty! This has been the radio station I have tuned into after KISS FM flipped formats. Now where to listen? certainly not to oldies? Goodbye 95.3 Chorus Entertainment CING, what were you thinking? Where are we going to listen to our Canadian Country Musicians now?

Kimmi
November 14, 2009 / 19:12

I am truly dissapointed with another oldies station. I looked forward to my drives listening to the Country music played on 95.3. Total bogus with a 1.1 score. I live in Toronto and I can honestly say I'de rather listen to country any day over those rock, hip-hop, and oldies radio stations. I definitely won't be tuning in. Stupid move on there part.

Flamboro Farmers
November 14, 2009 / 19:19

Good-bye 95.3. Now who's going to start up a all country and southern rock station? I'll find Buffalo 106.5 on my radio. If 95.3 played classic and new country they'd have even more listeners, and the Foxworthy Countdown weekly show is the best.. try that.

Chelsea
November 14, 2009 / 19:25

Sooo long my favorite and only country station.. I will not listen to your new format and the button number 6 is changed. RIP

Isobel and Ron
November 14, 2009 / 19:29

We are seniors and have had your station on our radio for many years. If you think nobody was listening to 95.3 your crazy. And we won't be listening at all now. Back to AM radio.

Wilson Guy
November 14, 2009 / 19:31

MY TRACTOR ONLY PLAYS COUNTRY!!! And in the barns out in the country 95.3 was the only station we'd play. You don't work on a farm and play rock n roll.

Craig
November 14, 2009 / 19:33

I listened to 95.3 because I am a country fan and not a classic rock fan. I won't be listening to your new station.

mark
November 14, 2009 / 19:43

This is an open call for Suzanne Carpenters resignation. Bring back country 95.3 until then its country 93.7 out of Owen Sound

Cindy
November 14, 2009 / 19:46

Well now I need to find another country music station and soon.. Are there any around Hamilton? I like to drive to country music and I miss Mookie's morning show as well. I find it really sad to do that to your listeners 95.3. Country music wasn't the problem it was your programming..SAD and MAD!!!!

Jack Peters
November 14, 2009 / 19:46

Now there one think that piss's me off more than a moron! is a condensending moron who thik's he or she is smarter than everybody else. I am very smart in fact I make a living of being extremely intelligent. If you think that it dosen't take very much intelligence to run a Radio show! think again. The people are the ones who will make you, and people can and will take you down and break you.

Sue
November 14, 2009 / 19:47

This just sucks the big one!!! What the hell are they thinking???? I enjoyed 95.3 COUNTRY...now it's just crap!

Jack Peters
November 14, 2009 / 19:48

Now if you think that I had accidenlty screwed up on my words, you'd be wrong. I only wanted to make sure that you can read it at your level.

Holly
November 14, 2009 / 19:55

Uncle Frank is this a joke.. I feel it's a joke. Home alone without my 95.3 :( It's going to be a unhappy drive until I can afford a ipod so I can play country in my car. I will be like driving far away from home when I can't find my radio station and I have to listen to other ones until I get close enought to find my 95.3 but I never will again. Oh that is sad. WHY? WHY?

Flamboro Stables
November 14, 2009 / 20:02

Hmmm!!! Our horses listen to country music and 95.3 Thats been on the radio for what seems like a life time. Only 7 years? Really. Well I'd like to voice my opinion and that is that the ratings are wrong and alot of people listen too New Country and they won't be listening to your new station because they love country music. Please won't someone start up a Country Music station and play all country music.

Bristol
November 14, 2009 / 20:05

I only listen to country and thats that. Another one of the disappointed listeners that don't like the change. If I wanted to listen to classic rock theirs alot of stations that play that fromat already.. What are you really up to. First CHCH TV goes news and movies and now 95.3 goes classic rock.

Not A Fan
November 14, 2009 / 20:09

Not a fan. Sorry but I won't be listening find new listeners because we will change the station at work, in the car or at home.

Kenn
November 14, 2009 / 20:17

Right on. Maybe now we'll get a really great country music station to start up. One that plays all country not just new. That plays the Foxworthy countdown,old gospel ,Stompin Tom, Merle,John and June with a little southern rock as well. We need a down home country station. Help!!!! We need a country station...

Rick
November 14, 2009 / 20:19

Put my fuckin' country stations back you stupid dumbass fucks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sam
November 14, 2009 / 20:24

Tell me how this really happened . I don't believe a ratings could actually decide this. Is this some weird business move or what? Why would a country music station that has all the country music fans pretty much in southern ontario change it's format to classic rock and risk going up against the competition when they had the country music market (which is hugh right now) cornered. I am truly confused.

Country Fan
November 14, 2009 / 20:29

You can take the girl out of the country but you can't take the country out of the girl. RIP 95.3 Country:( P.S. You just about ruined the Royal Fair.

B
November 14, 2009 / 20:29

Sam, they did this on their own because I think that they HATE Country Music and that is the bottom line. They will never rat themselves out but they don't have to , it's evident on their actions alone.

Dave from Brampton
November 14, 2009 / 20:32

Suzanne Carpenter, you are a COWARD !!! You did not have the decency to even let your Loyal listeners know about this change,because you know you would have thousands of us calling you and emailing you to let you know that you're doing the wrong thing. How can you let this bogus PPM rating tell you that nobody listens to your station. The majority of your listeners are West of Toronto. How many of us listeners got a PPM ? From the results, I don't think very many of us if any. Your new format stinks. I grew up listening to all these oldies. You hear them once is nice but then what. Nobody likes repetative songs it quickly becomes BORING !!! Like an earlier Dave said, Country is on the rise and gaining popularity. Look at Taylor Swift beating out Beyonce. If I'm not mistaken, this was the first time a Country star was invited to those awards. More and more people are taking notice of Country, don't be a fool. bring back our Country !!!

sharon
November 14, 2009 / 20:37

Hey Rick

I am with you on that!! Dumbassess!!!

Kris Ann
November 14, 2009 / 20:38

Oh my!!! Please don't change it. I love country music and all my friends and I need to have our country station. Can you please go back. Please. I love Taylor Swift and Carrie Underwood. Do you really think that nobody will care if you change format. Come on who are you kidding. Toby Keith and Keith Urban. George Strait and Reba. OMG I can't believe it. Just like that and it's gone. Your in for a big surprise. Another station will start up and you'll be sorry The New 95.3 If you were smart you'd start up a Country Music station that played all types of country.. like southern rock, blues, bluegrass, and old gospel, hee haw style. Very very sad and disappointed.

Hari
November 14, 2009 / 20:43

I may be east Indian born But I always loved Country music since I was a little boy. This 95.3 can now screw itself, I will never listen to it again. I now see how crooked these Radio orginizations really are. Radios should be free run without CORUS who needs them.

C
November 14, 2009 / 20:46

Yes Taylor Swifts video was the first time a country video has won an MTV video award.

Norma
November 14, 2009 / 21:05

Well now that I don't have country 95.3 to listen to I'll try AM or may get one of those satalite radios. Or my Bell Express Vu gets a Calgary station I can listen too. Some country on that. But a new station will start up because country music is the best music. But until then I will not listen to the new 95.3.

smoke
November 14, 2009 / 21:11

all this chattin sounds like the lyrics to a great country song.. Suzanne killed our country music station.. and they did it for money.. some one help me here..

Rick C in Oakville
November 14, 2009 / 21:20

Kris Ann I'm with you, the number of music styles and artists in Country is huge. I've become abig fan of Zac Brown Band with their southern style, Darius Rucker in his transformation from Hoodie and the Blow Fish, Scottish Canadian boy Johnny Reid, the list goes on.
Corus obviously hasn't been watching the trends from the US, Country/New Country has been gaining in popularity, you can't go to any US city and not find a number of Country stations.

Cindy
November 14, 2009 / 21:29

country stations.. 106.5, 106.7and 92.7.. These are from facebook so give them a try..

Laura
November 14, 2009 / 21:30

I am trulydissapointed that country 95.3 is no more. It was one of the only stations I listened to!!! As for the ratings, I am shocked that there was such a low rating of listeners because almost everywhere I went it always seemed like someone was listening to this station! I can't believe they yhink we need another oldies station!! Ilike oldies but come on here!!!! how many do we need??? Well guess it's back to my CD's full time!!

Karrie
November 14, 2009 / 21:57

This sucks!!! I was very surprised to hear classic rock on my favorite station... How can they think that country music fans will continue to listen to their station. We tune into 95.3 to hear "country" not rock. I'm beside myself, with no other station to listen to than 95.9 #which isn't all that great#. Don't they know that this music is actually a booming industry, are they nuts!!! I guess I'll have to pull out all my CD's now, just as Laura said...

Karrie
November 14, 2009 / 21:59

This sucks!!! I was very surprised to hear classic rock on my favorite station... How can they think that country music fans will continue to listen to their station. We tune into 95.3 to hear "country" not rock. I'm beside myself, with no other station to listen to than 95.9 #which isn't all that great#. Don't they know that this music is actually a booming industry, are they nuts!!! I guess I'll have to pull out all my CD's now, just as Laura said...

Mel
November 14, 2009 / 22:03

My husband and I are so SAD! We will never listen to the new 95.3

Alan Gallant
November 14, 2009 / 22:24

We don't need another oldies station in Hamilton or the GTA.
WE NEED A COUNTRY STATION.

I will never listen to the "NEW" 95.3 in fact, I've changed every preset in the car(s) and in the house.

Practically everyone I know loves country music, so to say they got poor ratings is pure BS....
Bring back Country...

Patrick
November 14, 2009 / 22:33

92.7 from London is a good station, Campbelville and west. 106.7 too. We can hope another station will fill the gap in GTA.

CW
November 14, 2009 / 22:36

Yes.. Ive talked to friends as well.. alot of X listeners are sad.. it sounds like a classic pop radio station now.. not even rock..facebook friends are talking about it and very sad.. if the other country station can get a strong signal they can have all of us.. so many times id be singing away to my favorite country tune and I'd look over at another car and they'd be singing along with me.. and I love the Zac Brown Band as well and Hootie. Country music has way more soul and todays music has an awesome sound!!! I will never listen to New 95.. I don't listen to other classic rock stations cause thats pretty much my CD collection.. new country is what my kids that are in there 20's and most of their friends listen to.. so good bye 95.3

jeff
November 14, 2009 / 22:42

Hey!!! because I had to listen to another country station. (just barely) I heard the Foxworthy countdown. What a great show. Better then Casey Clark(I don't like his show)Jeff Foxworthy is awesome. I now have a new country station. Thx 95.3 for all the years of new country and you will fail. Sorry. NOT!!!

Jeff
November 14, 2009 / 23:33

Let's cut to the F***en bullshit and get our Country Station operational once again. You think that we will allow you this to continue without a majot fight? you're delusional. You have picked on a war that you cannot win. We will shut you down believe me and you will not go home sleeping soundly until we get our country station back. This is only the begining, monday the Toronto Star and Global television, oh yeah baby this is just the begining of your nightmares.

Paul
November 14, 2009 / 23:41

I am also going to call the Global Television Monday, but I had done one better I had just e-mailed them earlier today about this so they will have put it on the News very soon. The more people that call Global or CHCH News the better chance for it's air time for Monday. I urge everyone of the Country Fans to do the same, please call in.

Anonymous
November 14, 2009 / 23:49

WHAT THE F%$##
I agree - no idea where the heck there numbers were coming from - clearly someone is confused. Chorus didn't figure out they were the ONLY decent country station around (I'm in Toronto) - what a sad day this is.... if any other station managers read this post - be smart and get a country station going quick!
And they didn't even have the balls to announce it to their listeners. I absolutely hate the "new" 95.3

Anonymous
November 14, 2009 / 23:59

I had also e-mailed Global just two minutes ago, and I hope there are enough people out there doing the same thing. It's easy Global.com and find the e-mail address and just click on it. Explane the situation and this might hit the news as early as Sunday.

Anonymous
November 15, 2009 / 00:48

Country 95.3 was the station I listened to for a pick-me-up. I could always depend on it. It was the only station that was clear from Niagara to Fergus. Better yet, it was a lot cleaner than most "rock n'roll" stations out there. Which we have a lot of already, by the way. I already have an oldies station. I'm loyal to it. The preset has been changed to another country station. Thanks for nothing.

Erica
November 15, 2009 / 07:00

Wow...another oldies station. And we wonder why the mullet won't die!

dj
November 15, 2009 / 08:02

loved lissoning to country y95 the only problem was yous didn,t play enough varity it seemed like yous only owened and played and repeated 20 same songs over and over all day long. use more varity and you,ed get the lissoners the best part was the staff were fantastic and enjoyed them.

anon
November 15, 2009 / 08:26

yup, this sucks....

Lori
November 15, 2009 / 08:29

I would never listen to rock/pop oldies. I have deleted 95.3 from my radio. The very least Corus could have done was advised their "loyal listeners" who they care so much about.

Radio
November 15, 2009 / 08:31

DJ Radios are not run the way you'd like to think. The program Director makes up the lists and the D.J. has to follow the list like a robot or the D.J. will be out of a job. I worked in Radio for many years as a Tape popper, Disc placer and I had to follow all of their bullshit rules , even though the same songs are sometimes played 3 time within the 5 hour time frame. Once I had quit the Radio and never looked back again, I have been doing Voice over Commercial Ads and other Voice over gigs ever since. If I'm going to read from a list or a script I might as well do it as an Actor in stead. Radio announcers are nothing but corporate puppets, well Radio and Corus up your ass.

Lynda
November 15, 2009 / 08:56

Apparently these days if you "twitter" something (ask your kids) you can possibly reach more people than if you contact the papers. I would suggest all country fans do both. I am personally boycotting any chorus radio station. I like country but the signals for the other radio stations don't hit Burlington. I am hoping one of the other stations boosts there signal. I am also saddened as the "Country 95.3" had a huge community presence. As to the age of fans, at a Taylor Swift concert you get anywhere from 8 -88. New format sucks.

Brad
November 15, 2009 / 09:01

No market for country? Gimme a break. Keith Urban, Blue Rodeo, Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood, Zac Brown, and rising stars like Johnny Reid...where do we go for that now? 95.3 puts up a link on their "bah-bye" page to 2 country stations in AB for the GTA listeners - yet another blunder as they abandon their listeners for the unknown. Do they really think that new country listeners will convert to their new (old boring) format? That market is saturated as it is. Their survey is wacked. New Country is attracting all kinds of listeners today. I went to the Alan Jackson concert in Orillia and he packed the place out 2 nights in a row. Going to see Johnny Reid Nov 20 in Barrie at the Molson Centre. There is a following here no matter what the survey said. Every song has a story which will be missed. I listened to the new format for 20 min and turned it off forever. Bad move Corus Entertainment.

Wendy W
November 15, 2009 / 09:03

I can't believe that "upper management" made this decision and didn't even have the decency or the respect for its listeners to offer an explanation or give us a heads up that this change was coming. You have left us high and dry in the Hamilton area for country music as there are no stations available to us now. I didn't realize how much of an impact listening to country music had on me until it was rudely and sudenly pulled out from under my feet. There is a huge void in my day now. I listened to Y95 in my car at work and at home and could relate to the music and actually understand the words. "Upper management" here like at every other large company these days seems to have their head in the sand or some "other" place when they make these so-called smart decisions. Do they actually think we need another oldies station??? Country music fans are telling you that you have made a HUGE mistake!!!! Are you listening??? I doubt it. One can only hope they realize their error in judgment and put country back in its rightful place on air on our local radio station.

This from one angry and very disappointed huge country fan

Wendy in Hamilton

CountrySucksAnyways
November 15, 2009 / 09:41

Bahahhahhahahhahahahahaha. Country crybabies.
Bahhhhahahhhahahhahahaahhah.

Anonymous
November 15, 2009 / 10:22

Up you asshole you son of a Bitch. You know nothing about Country Music unless you are in cahoots with this new station. M.F**Ker

Greg
November 15, 2009 / 10:24

Just another display of "new age upper management style" No guts, no balls...just a bunch of quitters. If there is something just not right, throw it out,and get something new, don't use your head and think a little bit on how to take something great and make it greater.
I am sure it wont be long before someone see's the massive oppourtunity here.
Just remember...it's not the loyal fans, it's not the great music, it's not the DJ's.....it's management that has failed.

Max
November 15, 2009 / 10:36

Fire the station manager !!! give me back my country !!!

Justin
November 15, 2009 / 11:33

***First off, has anyone talked about creating a PETITION yet? I'd sign in a heartbeat!***

I totally hear all of you on your outrage and disappointment. I live in Western NY and while I love my local country station, Country 95.3 played a better variety of music and played Canadian artists that my station isn't contracted to play. I almost started screaming when I found out they got yanked off the air and one more oldies station is not going to replace a totally different genre of music. Sure everyone likes a good oldies tune, but that's not country music and there's about 5 or 6 other stations I can flip to that have the same darn music. Part of me wants to move down south so I can get some better music on the radio! The only solace I can find is that I know a ton of other people are just as upset and we're all in the same boat. RIP Country 95.3.

McNulty
November 15, 2009 / 11:51

Wow, Mike. You stirred up a nest on this one.

I think your hits just went through the roof.

Jeff
November 15, 2009 / 11:59

I went to the Hamilton Spec, and Globle Nstional Kevin Newman and CHCH, much better than a petition.

Dave Soloman
November 15, 2009 / 12:02

Station Manager has nothing to do with anything he or she has no clout, it's all the owner of it all the Program Director.

Anonymous
November 15, 2009 / 12:04

You son's of bitch's

Alex
November 15, 2009 / 12:09

I am so dissapointed! As a person who listens to all generes of music new country is one of my favourites and this is all we need is more elevator music on the radio! Personally I will be deleting 95.3 from all my radio's in the cars, at home, and at work!

anne
November 15, 2009 / 12:13

I was really disappointed that 95.3 switched formats. It's true that 95.9 does not come in the western GTA. (I tried it). What are we supposed to listen to??

Rob
November 15, 2009 / 12:27

I echo the disappointment. I find the ratings info hard to believe based on the size of quick replies here. Poor decision.

GERTIE
November 15, 2009 / 12:31

I too kept looking at my radio in the car, and knew something was very wrong. Why do people insist on living in the past? reminicing about high school days and oldie goldies - come on get a life! Thanks to those who provided other stations, I'll definitely give those a try, cuz I won't listen to this crap!

Dave
November 15, 2009 / 12:41

The drive home in Toronto suddenly got even less enjoyable.

Karen
November 15, 2009 / 13:25

Gertie is so right, but what about the kids that love country. Both my boys although they are now young men (20 and 22) listened to country and followed the country music videos and have their favourite artists. The classic rock is their least favourite genre and probably would prefer the new hits. They either listened to 953 or the stations with the new hits. They will never listen to the "New 953" because they won't reminisce their highschool days from classic rock. Stairway to Heaven means nothing to them. LOL Actually come to think of it they don't even want to relive highschool yet.

Dumber then I thought
November 15, 2009 / 14:11

Thank you for taking the time to contact us with your concerns. We appreciate hearing from our listeners as all feedback is important to us.

Corus Radio Hamilton is committed to providing the best possible listening experience to our audience, therefore, we have decided to take CING-FM in a new and dynamic direction by changing to a Greatest Hits format, offering an upbeat, fun radio station playing the greatest hits from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s. Even with the best intentions, we simply aren't going to be able to meet the listening requirements of every audience member. Corus Radio Hamilton is committed to our community and we are confident the new Greatest Hits format will become a welcome addition to southern Ontario audiences. Your support is important to us and we invite you to listen to the station that we are certain will become an audience favourite.

Sincerely,

Suzanne Carpenter/Derm Carnduff


Marg
November 15, 2009 / 14:21

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/bringbackcountry953/signatures.html
Sign this petition. There are only just over 200 signatures. I know we've got more loyal listeners than that.

Trevor
November 15, 2009 / 14:27

ur wrong suzanne bring back country and drop the new-that is the reason u failed

Debbie
November 15, 2009 / 14:40

Suzanne Carpenter.... this is who your listeners were.... what a shock. I live in Niagara and can't get any of the stations people have suggested. I won't be listening to your new format "been there, done that". I hope someone hears and sees what we are all saying and picks up where 95.3 left off. When traveling I could get 95.3 in Pennsylvania... it's not just your local Toronto listeners that you've lost. Does this mean that the country music artists won't come our way either because they think they don't have any fans in southern Ontario?

Spencer C
November 15, 2009 / 14:41

Country music is the only thing left in this world that is pure. It's the only genre that it's artists put out consistently solid albums. The lyrics tell a story, unlike any other genre this day, and the music is full of talent ( have you heard Brad Paisley play guitar!? or the fiddle player in the Zac Brown Band?!). I used to be and still am a classic rock fan, but we have Q107 for that and the other bunch of stations playing the same crap. This was the only GTA station playing country and now there's a HUGE void. The ratings are total BS I know tons of people that listen to country in the hamilton area. Also they didn't take into account that you can get this station all the way out past Woodstock, where there's a huge country market. I agree with the other posters, leave it up to some heartless Torontotonian to screw up something good. I hope they burn for what they've done. Well until they come to their senses to launch another country station in the GTA, atleast we got our awesome country concerts, CMT and our albums.

Lisa
November 15, 2009 / 15:04

This really SUCKS!!!! Maybe if this was announced before actually changing formats, the listeners voices would have been heard. Nobody has ever asked me what station I prefer to listen to. What are we going to do with another classic hits show. All the listeners like country music, or they would have been listening to something else before. If you think we're going to change just to support your new stupid format, think again!!! Not me!!!

Ruth
November 15, 2009 / 15:47

Suzanne-Re your post. Are you kidding? You're living in a dream world!!! As Lisa said, there are many oldie stations, both AM and FM around and if we wanted to hear oldies, we would have been listening to them already!

J. Davidson
November 15, 2009 / 15:50

Everyone I know is disappointed. Someone should start up a staion that plays both new country and maybe a night of country oldies

Shaner
November 15, 2009 / 16:08

I can't believe 95.3 new country is gone the only good country station in our area I know most of the people I knew listened to it bring it back!!!! Whoever they got there ratings from is full of it..... If I asked 20 people what station they listen to it would be 10 out of 20 that would say they listen to new
country
95.3!!!!' sigh sad man

Shaner
November 15, 2009 / 16:13

I agree with Lisa

Monica
November 15, 2009 / 16:39

So disappointed! That was literally the only country station I could catch. There's no way I'll listen to the new format. I would have listened to the dozens of other stations that play those songs if that was what I wanted. Bring country back!

mark
November 15, 2009 / 16:47

This is horse shit I live 45min north of Orangeville and listen to 95.3. This is not a little area that this affects. I have more then a 1.1 rating comment on facebook about the station being taken off the air. someone need to give there a haed a shake.....horse shit.

mark
November 15, 2009 / 16:47

This is horse shit I live 45min north of Orangeville and listen to 95.3. This is not a little area that this affects. I have more then a 1.1 rating comment on facebook about the station being taken off the air. someone need to give there a haed a shake.....horse shit.

Greg
November 15, 2009 / 17:05

It's too bad that anal accountants and head up there a*s Corus media folks are way out in left field on this one. Leave it to suits to get the country stuff so wrong.

The only way these types of executives get the point is where it hurts most, in the pocket.

Loyal listeners of Country 95.3. Personally visit or call the advertisers of the old format. I wonder if the folks at East Hamilton Radio or others were aware of the change. Call up the advertisers and voice your displeasure. I'm sure the advertisers carry a bigger stick than the 1.1 survey folks like you and I.

I feel sorry for the radio peronalities that now find there lives so intertwined with Corus media that I'm sure they would like nothing better than to tell Corus to shove it!

How about the community fund raising of recent with Lee. How about the exta trips made by folks like Johhny Reid to the station? I feel for them too, what a crock.

Call the advertisers, let them know that they may better spend their advetising dollars with alternative radio stations like BX93 in London or Kix 106.7 in Waterloo. 95.3 is off my present and Kix 106.7 is in.

I guess if it makes better sense to slug it out as one respondant put it "in dishwasher" land where the piece of the pie is already sliced too thin, so be it. Just what the world needs - another "Golden oldies" station, hits or no hits!

Good luck 95.3.....fail

Deb
November 15, 2009 / 17:08

What happened to our station? No warning? Do people really think our opinions don't matter? Why wasn't there a call out to listeners prior to the change allowing them to rally in support of our radio station. CHCH let their viewers know in advance to help support local TV. I may not like the change to CHCH but at least I have a local news station with local advertisement. Good for everyone who has posted here and gone to their newspapers. We need a local country station, not something I have to listen to by going on the internet or using satellite radio in my car. Something local, something clean, and words that I can sing to. Bring back New Country 95.3.

Mike
November 15, 2009 / 17:12

Not only did they abandon all their listeners but they also abandoned all their country artists that came to their studio and played for them. I wonder how Johnny Reid feels? He was always on the air with them. Or how about Jesse Farrell, they were promoting her pretty good as well. I guess we will all have to just follow the country videos instead????

Ruth
November 15, 2009 / 17:18

Suzanne-If you are not the idiot who decided to change the format of 95.3 and just the messenger, I feel sorry for you. But, I do hope that you show the powers that be all the comments that have been posted. If you are the decision maker then I hope that you read (and really read) everything that has been written. I realize that this was a business decision, but it was a BAD one and one that will be felt for a long time. The reasons given for the change are low ratings and that there is not a country music audience in Southern Ontario. So, who were all the people at the Canada Day Jams? Who were all the people at the sold out concerts at the ACC and other venues? Were they all just figments of our imagination? I will not be listening to 95.3 in its new format.

Ziff
November 15, 2009 / 19:52

Found this address on the internet (google search).

Suzanne.Carpenter@corusent.com

James
November 15, 2009 / 20:22

For anyone who doesn't like what they did with 95.3, and/or who doesn't want to pay for Sirius if they don't have to, go here. It's basicly a design your own radio station. Sure, you can't listen to it in your car. But for the folks that have it on in the background at home/work/whatever it might work. Plus, no commercials. At least not yet.

Pat
November 15, 2009 / 21:25

This is a sad day when the only music we can listen to on free radio is old rock, new rock, dance music, and easy listening. Were does a person now fine a good sounding station to listen to great country music, without have to pay for it

margaret
November 15, 2009 / 23:10

very disappointing day when we turned on the radio and they was no county music playing, thought it was a joke. whats the problem there was many people that were listen to the station, very sad

Taylor S
November 16, 2009 / 02:11

my name is taylor simpson 19 from n-o-t-l. i agree with all of u this is absolutly rediculous..but why sit here and talk bout it..iv emailed the board of directors at the station and told him how rediculous this is and copied alot of these comments so he can see first hand how stupid of an idea this was...whos with me to get this station back.

temp
November 16, 2009 / 03:12

what where you thinking you new format sucks bye bye 95.3

todd
November 16, 2009 / 03:37

this is bull crap i know
a lot of people in the small town of paris ont that loved the country 95.3 and now we got this crappy ass old folks music i not puting my boots and hat away to get a cane and wig and false teeth screw the new 95.3 oldies blow

Melissa Smith
November 16, 2009 / 06:31

My husband and I, as well as our families absolute agree with everyone supporting Country 95.3. Unfortunately I think it was a horrible business decision...I will definitely not listen to the new oldies station when there are 10 other stations just like it. I actually don't have any interest in the radio anymore and like many others here would agree. Now that definitely tells you something. Country is great for all ages, and is becoming increasingly popular in Southern Ontario, take a look at all the country performers this year with sold out shows in Toronto. Country is getting bigger then ever! Horrible decision - wow!!!! We live in the Niagara region, and can't get 95.9 - let's be hopeful and I'm sure a new country station will pop up in no time, realizing it's true potential!

95.3 will be missed...it became apart of our lives and the only station you could actually leave on and listen too!

Tip: Even, though I really can't believe the ratings are correct, there's just no way, You build the interest in the radio station to attract more viewers. (I have observed horrible business decisions that probably impacted your ratings in the first place, not people's interest in country music in Soutern Ontario)not shut it down! You actually had a niche and dedicated viewers!

See ya 95.3 for as long as it is Oldies!

Melissa Smith
November 16, 2009 / 06:34

P.S. Taylor S, I'm with you girl!!

Melissa Smith
November 16, 2009 / 07:03

Hey Country 95.3 fans. Make a petition at:

http://www.petitiononline.com/BTNC953B/petition.html

Check out Country 95.3 on facebook and e-mail management on www.95.3.com and express your views!

The more I think about it, and the more I see everyone's interest, the more ridicolous their decision becomes!

There's a huge country music community out there...and it would really be too bad if this was lost in Southern Ontario (I know there are other good country stations out there - but they are difficult to get from Niagara to Durham region). Make sure to stay in touch on Country 95.3's Facebook page or create your own!

tanya lynch
November 16, 2009 / 08:07

I can't beleive they got rid of country 95.3. I listened to that station 99% of the time! I will miss it. I am so tired of the crap they play on today's radio stations!
Bring back country!!!!!!

Mark Laing
November 16, 2009 / 08:56

I think it is not only sad but now completely boring that 95.3 left country music. The station at least use to have something different for the market, now they just meld into all the other "top hit' stations. More elevator music...Yuck!

Linda
November 16, 2009 / 09:21

Its a shame that Corus Entertainment thinks they can reach out and grab new listeners by changing their concpet. Dont' they realize from a business stand point, it costs more to get new listeners then it costs to keep on the ones they currently have. Shamen on Corus Entertainment!!!!! Bring Back COUNTRY 95.3!!!!!!

Bastards
November 16, 2009 / 09:23

You CORUS Bastards, who do you think you are?

Sue
November 16, 2009 / 09:27

Sad to hear that 95.3FM has changed it's format. I am searching for a replacement...anybody know of one? I guess for now I'll have to listen to noshoeradio.com Kenny Chesney's on line satellite radio station.

Trevor
November 16, 2009 / 09:33

I am pissed as well! I and everyone I know is going to boycott this new station until they bring back contry 95.3!

Deb
November 16, 2009 / 09:49

this was obviously a budget decision only.. why would you do a market share analysis in Toronto when you are a Hamilton Radio station.. I'm sure a true market share analysis of their listening market - Halton,Brantford,Niagara would have given an entirely different number...

Ted
November 16, 2009 / 09:52

Yes bring the 95.3 Country back and screw the rest of the bullshit. I can't even listen to it anymore.

Scott
November 16, 2009 / 10:48

Well country 95.3 you will be missed!

Carolyn
November 16, 2009 / 10:59

I am shocked and disgusted at the way Corus has crudly disregarded their loyal employees and loyal listeners. What a slap in the face to everyone involved! Country music has a huge following and the absolute last thing we need is another oldies station! BRING BACK OUR COUNTRY STATION!!!

Karen
November 16, 2009 / 11:04

Hey ...I don't know where your numbers come from other than that survey that was sent out a while ago...I listened to 95.3 every day 2 times a day driving during my runs..I sleep during the day. 95.3 and their staff are great.. fun and ..actually have brain cells unlike some of those other disgusting Toronto stations out there with the trash some sickos listen to..The new 95.3 is garbage..couldn't believe this morn when i couldn't tune them in..And hey just so you know there are an awful lot of people going to be pissed off..mark my words!!!!

Tara
November 16, 2009 / 11:07

This is terrible. How many classic rock stations do we need? Don't get me wrong, I love classic rock also, but can choose from many GTA stations, whereas when I want to listen to country, I only have one choice, and now that's gone (ok 95.9 is country but sometimes difficult to receive in the western GTA).
I almost cried on Friday afternoon. I kept praying that Lea & Paul were on this morning (Monday morning) on my way into work and maybe could shed a little light on it, but they were not. Where are they now?
Very sad...just for ratings? Very sad. How many commercials did you hear on 95.3? Waaaay too many...yet that still wasn't enough $ for Corus.
Corus, you are terrible. I'm going to research all Corus radio stations and boycott them. Hoping others do also.

Karen
November 16, 2009 / 11:13

I am Karen again...and just thought I'd let you know I live in Hamilton and drive to Niagara...those surveys that were sent out asked for as many people in the household over 16 yrs I believe..My son listens to his I-pod...forever...next time why don't you be a little more accurate with your surveys ...don't worry about bribing the people by paying them a $5 dollar bill to fill out a survey...diehard listeners don't need to be paid...we get paid every time we tune in our favouite radio station and program!!!

Toronto Mike
November 16, 2009 / 11:19

Hi Karen,

They don't do the radio surveys like that anymore. You can read all about the new PPM process right here: http://www.torontomike.com/2009/09/portable_people_meter_ppm_tech.html

Marg
November 16, 2009 / 11:38

Funny how the Buffalo-Niagara Country station is #1. See attached for info taken off internet.
Country music once again rules Buffalo-Niagara radio roost
Filed under: Entertainment, Music, News, Radio — pauljlane @ 11:42 am
For the first time in a year, Western New York radio listeners have made the local country music offering their No. 1 choice on the dial.
In ratings released July 30 by Arbitron for spring 2009, WYRK 106.5 FM posted a 10.3 rating, meaning that 10.3 percent of local listeners had that station on in any given 15-minute period.
That pushed WYRK ahead of news talk station WBEN 930 AM (9.6 rating), which had been atop the ratings since last summer. The station’s rating dropped from 10.3 in winter 2009.
WYRK last topped the ratings in spring 2008, when the station posted a staggering 11.8 rating. Either WYRK or WBEN has been the No. 1 station in Western New York for most of the decade.

B Scott
November 16, 2009 / 11:44

Very sad that this Radio Station is gone,Maybe people only listened while they were in the car.Someone better hop on the country scene and hire that staff of DJ,s they will go #1 in southern Ontario with a country program.

Don
November 16, 2009 / 11:48

You get outside the Toronto area and its all Country ... young and old.. I travel across Canada and US alot and Toronto has the worst variety of radio station's that is they all sound the same .... I have given up finding a station in TO... listen to Cd's..etc... but when I get outside T.O. I can always scan the dial and find a good country station.... TO just doesn't get it.. the melting pot is the problem...

D
November 16, 2009 / 12:07

The saddest part about this...is the time of year...we were just getting into all of the great country Christmas songs!

Pissed Off
November 16, 2009 / 12:11

I an very pissed......I will certainly miss the country station - and I will not be listening to this new Format. Stupid Move - Hoping someone will come in and replace them and quick.

Theresa
November 16, 2009 / 12:14

If it's not broken, why fix it! I agree, where did they take this poll and why wasn't the general public asked what station they listen too. I've gone into professional offices and they had 95.3 playing in Burlington. What did happen to Mookie? I went on holidays, came home and he was gone??? Just getting used to the new daddy and his stories. I've already changed my dial. My daughter got hooked on 95.3 country and is downloading some country artists. When will we hear from Johnny Reid again? Come ON..you've made a very bad move. AND for me it's bye bye.

Kimberly
November 16, 2009 / 12:18

I cannot believe they took away 95.3 Country. I love Country music and am in Niagara area - I will have to listen to WYRK now. They did this same thing here quite a few years ago, 91.7 used to be country and one day I woke up and they changed it to 'Giant FM', at least they maintained the same DJ's but it's not the same, that's why I switched to 95.3... now that's gone, this is horrible. The DJ's were great and approachable and the music was wonderful. I was at a sold out Brooks & Dunn concert at Copps a couple years ago and have been at other country shows that have all been sold out. I can't believe anyone who truly knew their 'market' would think that Country was not the way of the future - these people are very dimwitted.

Erin
November 16, 2009 / 12:23

There is still one country station in the K-W area 106.7 Kix FM. They are also really involved in the comunity and have a points reward system just like 95.3 did.

james
November 16, 2009 / 12:24

Someone screwed up! This is what happens when you bring in corporate big shots. Ruined a great radio station! I will never listen to there new format. What a disgrace to the listeners!Well I guess back to listening to my cd's in the car. Take that radio! You made a mistake

michelle
November 16, 2009 / 13:04

Lucky for you people that can get 95.9 tuned in your area. There isnt a country station out there I can get.....GOODBYE RADIO and well.....hello sirius. Least I can tune into these station where ever I am!

Dave
November 16, 2009 / 13:14

I am lucky enough to get BX93 (92.7 on the dial), out of London Ont. at home but not in Brantford. It is a very good station except for the week signal. Give it a try.

Am I correct that 95.3 based their format change on a survey done only in Toronto? A METROPOLIS FILLED WITH GANG BANGERS AND OTHER CRITTERS? WAS THE SURVEY DONE AT SOME HIPHOP CLUB?
I AM DONE WITH 95.3

Bob Jauniaux
November 16, 2009 / 13:37

I am luckly I have a couple other stations I can listen to at work and in the truck. 106.7 is good out of Kitchener. 92.7 is good out of London. 107.3 is good but plays too many old country song..they are out of Oxford county. 100.3 plays country in the morning.
I too was totally shocked. When I returned to my desk on friday I thought one of my co worker had played a trick on me and changed the station on the radio on my desk.
What a sad day for South Western Ontario.

Dan
November 16, 2009 / 13:38

First Mookie is let go last summer, with a huge air of suspicion.

Second, they leave us with Lea and the monkey sidekick

Third, Bob Steele is gone two/three weeks ago

Then, all of a sudden, Country 95.3 dissapears into thin air without a single word to the fans.

What has Lea said about this? What is the real reason for such a distasteful and abrupt cut off?

Deanna
November 16, 2009 / 14:35

Oldies SUCK!! There are too many radio stations that play that junk, bring back the Country!!!

BLN
November 16, 2009 / 15:59

I won't be listening to 95.3 - it sucks - I was hoping it was just a one time weekend thing but not the case - does anyone know if there is another country station.
I will now play cd's instead until I find another country station.
I don't believe for a minute it had a poor rating - there has to be something else!!

Kathy
November 16, 2009 / 16:05

Too many stations are catering to the aging baby boomers (no offence). I am sick of "oldies" and "classic rock" - they all play the same stuff over and over again. Country was a nice change to the line-up. A great Kitchener station - if you can get it, is 106.7 (Kicx 106). I toggled between the 2. Boo to 95.3. I sampled some of the crap(seriously) while searching for country - and almost crashed my car trying to figure out what the hell happened to the station.

The Bryks
November 16, 2009 / 16:08

I am in shock and total disappointment. My family has been loyal listeners since they switched to country. I dont know where the survery was taken, but none of my family or friends were asked.

95.3 has a "Leave us Your Comments" link on their temporary home page - everyone needs to write their disgust and disappointment. I for one will not listen to another Corus station.

Bewildered!
November 16, 2009 / 16:41

Aside from missing the country music I am bewildered in their decision to change the format.

One thing that no one has yet mentioned is the businesses that had purchased air time for their commercials. When Corus was trying to get their business I'm sure they were told that 95.3 is the most listened to country station around. If it was the most listened to country station around...then why did they change their format?

If I was a company that had purchased air time from Corus I would contact them to get a portion of my money back since obviously my commercial did not reach the amount of consumers Corus said it would reach!

Shame! On! You!

Dumb move
November 16, 2009 / 17:30

You know when you are the only Country station in all of the Southern Ontario, you donot pull the plug, the ratings were much higher than what you had previously noted. I don't know what happened and why it even happened at all! is beyond me. This country music has gone to a whole new level and it reached out all kinds of people both young and old. The music itself has a very possitive messege unlike all the self centered, sentimentality type music that only led to depression and self loathing pitty. we need more realistic valued songs that educates as well as entertains us.

Mike
November 16, 2009 / 17:57

I am so pissed about this. I went to Myrtle Beach in April and was amazed that I was able to listen to 95.3 all the way into the state of penselavania, now I cant even listen to country in the GTA any more. Time to go back to hip hop i guess!

News
November 16, 2009 / 18:26

The Newspaper in Hamilton have been approached, but they need a lot more complaints about this 95.3 matter. And the CHCH and Global National with Kevin Newman also need more complaints. Please help out if you want you country station back NOW is the time to do something. Don't be bullied by these jack ass's. I used to beat the shit out of bullies in my school years helping out the little guys and gals, and I will continue kicking the shit of of bullies.

Rebecca
November 16, 2009 / 18:31

I cannot believe this. Do we really need another rock/oldies station???? BTW, where is this 95.9 station based out of? I'm in Woodbridge and can't pick up a thing on that channel.

Eddie
November 16, 2009 / 18:33

I knew something was wrong when i heard some stupid rock on the new country 95.3 last week. This 1.1 rating is obviously BS, so I think we should boycott 95.3 now and maybe setup a facebook page(if someone already hasn't), and show how many people really listened to it. Worth a try seeing there's nothing else on the radio to listen to...

Eddie
November 16, 2009 / 19:01

Here is a way to complain:
comments@corusent.com
414-642-3770

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=175352169019&ref=mf&v=info

Justin
November 16, 2009 / 19:09

That 1.1 has to be bogus. Country 95.3 was a great station.
Why on Earth do we need another Oldies/classic rock station anyways?

Shawn
November 16, 2009 / 19:21

New format sucks.
Not informing the listeners of the format change and the cold message on the website after 7 years of listening just goes to show you how much we as listeners mean to corrus.
The only way I know to make someone listen is to hit them in the pocketbook. I have emailed comments@corusent.com and voiced my 2 bits. I now intend on contacting advertisers I have used from 95.3 saying by by
I doubt it will change any minds but might cause financial loss for my loss of an amazing radio station.
GOOD BY COUNTRY 95.3

Dave
November 16, 2009 / 19:23

Rebecca, 95.9 (KX96) is out of Oshawa. It is also broadcast on 89.9 out of Sunderland. They need to get approval from the CRTC and boost their signal.

mark
November 16, 2009 / 19:29

I live in Guelph so I get 106.7 but I agree that it,s range is not good. There is also BX-93 in London Ontario that's a great station too but doesn't come in too clearly in the K-W/Guelph area. I feel bad for the people in Toronto, Hamilton and surrounding areas. You have been ripped off again and deserve better. Cliff Dumas you are a genius and a living legend. Give them another 820 cham station but on the FM dial

Anonymous
November 16, 2009 / 19:45

This just sucks!!!! My children and I listened to this station ALL the time, and now we can not get any country. How many other stations like this format are out there.... TONS!!!! Well sorry but we will no longer support 95.3. Really too bad.

Cheryl
November 16, 2009 / 20:09

What a disappointment. For a station that says they are the #1 country station in Canada and then just change their format, that would be like Tim Horton's saying that they were no longer going to sell coffee and donuts, they were going to change to selling nuts and bolts!! Where the hell did these people learn their business skills?

mike worden
November 16, 2009 / 20:24

l think they lie to us,country is here to stay,l think that station needs new managment,next time promote it as hamiltons radio and not toronto,toronto is rap city,get with it,bring back country

HGT
November 16, 2009 / 21:55

I have been listening to 95.3 for over 5 yrs now. I am very upset that this station has changed their format, but what disgusts me is how they did it. No discussions on the morning show (which was great), and no thanking their loyal listeners for the many years of listening to their advertisments. It's as if they thought we could not handle the news. Contrary to to many businesses belief, the general public is not stupid and people know when they have been treated like shit.

JMT Milton
November 16, 2009 / 22:11

What were you people thinking? Honestly.....how ridiculous to get rid of such a great station. Very, very disappointed..............

JMT Milton
November 16, 2009 / 22:11

What were you people thinking? Honestly.....how ridiculous to get rid of such a great station. Very, very disappointed..............

M kruger
November 16, 2009 / 22:14

This is grap I cannot believe the station has made such a change. I will not be listening to the oldies. Who ever did the survey you need to go ask your money back becuase they did not do a good job.

Jen From Hagersville
November 16, 2009 / 22:18

Very sad....1.1 bull****! The New Country 95.3 was the best. I don't intend on supporting this new format. I feel betrayed by the manner in which this whole change took place. Very sad.....

cheryl
November 16, 2009 / 22:30

i loved waking up to lea and paul, loved their stories TONS of people did we don't need another 70-80's radio station. If i liked that crap i would listen to my local station.BRING BACK MY COUNTRY

Valli
November 16, 2009 / 22:44

What are we supposed to listen to now? And what will happen when a country star comes to Toronto to promote a show or a new CD what station will be adverting his or her music? I am very disappointed in the network I can’t believe this could happen. I have 4 children and all that I have listened to for 30 years is country so natural my kids have also listened to it. Sure they listen to popular stuff Jonas Brothers and such but having listened to country in my car for years, I believed has taught them about Love, respect and words make a difference. So what should they listen to now?? Music that has NO Meaning to it or just plain Crap that comes out of these new Pop stars, the same words over and over again like that song Halo I think she says it 100 times in the same song over and over again. Once again I am not mad just really disappointed in the management and 1.1 rating come on nobody asked me what station I listened to.
Well I will buy one of those car jacks for I Pods and listen to my IPOD in the car for now on.

Good luck to the management they will need it being in a market with so many others somebody didn’t think that out too well.

Lynanne McKee
November 16, 2009 / 23:21

Hate the new format, will be looking for a new Country station, will NOT listen to 95.3
whoever made this decision must be REALLY stupid!!!

David
November 16, 2009 / 23:35

I am so disappointed to lose this country station. I will really miss the personalities and the sense of community that went along with them.

Elna
November 17, 2009 / 01:24

I will miss 95.3 most in the mornings - I could get music, news, weather, jokes (OK, they were bad ones) all in the same place! And it all just seems so sneaky, how they switched formats without a word. Their operating budget must be lower now, though - I have not heard a DJ yet!

mike
November 17, 2009 / 02:26

i guess im going to sattelite radio.

Greg
November 17, 2009 / 03:05

I am old (and have lots of disposable income) but do not listen to old music!! I have sent in a request to the new 953 to play "Corus Sucks!" by Play Country Music!
I get the feelig it's all a marketing ploy by Corus, but maybe they are really that stupid, they've done some stupid things before. Who needs another oldies stations????

Anne
November 17, 2009 / 05:35

I went to Pittsburgh for the weekend, listened to country on Friday, Black Friday the 13th for me because that was the last time I heard my favorite radio station, I woke up Monday morning to some strange music coming out of my radio, accused my Husband of changing the channel. The same awful old music was playing in my car, I spent the entire drive to work and back home again looking for a country station. I agree with Greg, I may be old and have lots of disposable income but this old music sucks, if I wanted to listen to it I would have tuned into the too many radio stations that already play it. And survey, what survey, no one asked me. I have lots of friends that listen to country. Not to mention the good messages many of the country musicians send us, compared to the sexist, violent rot that plays on other nameless stations. BRING BACK MY COUNTRY STATION. Another reason why I can't wait to get my new car, it has Sirius radio, too bad I'll have to pick up some distant station and miss all the local news and events.

Lynda
November 17, 2009 / 07:15

I still have the station tuned in my car. Have to change it. However, both times I turned the radio on "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" was playing. So my guess is the new 95.3 is playing the same 20 or 30 "oldies songs" over and over and over. Blah. I'd suggest before anyone advertises on that station they listen to that sh*t for a while before wasting any money.

Mike B
November 17, 2009 / 07:43

WTF??? This New 95.3 really sucks. I can't listen to that crap. Are there any other country stations in the GTA???

heather mclaughlin
November 17, 2009 / 08:06

I think respect should of been shown to the faithful fans of 95.3 with a heads up that the station was changing. I have been a faithful fan for many many many years and find the music very up beat. I love the people you had working the station and felt loyal to them as well. I tuned in to hear them banter back and forth and I felt like I couldnt miss a day listening. I am very upset that this change has taken place and I have no respect left for the station management for thinking country fans are not worth keeping a local station for. You have lost a faithful 95.3 fan...the buck stops here. I hope your pocket books feel this!!!!!!!!

Brenda
November 17, 2009 / 08:11

I have been trying to find another country station in my area and have found none. I listened to country 95.3 everyday while I had my coffee and the whole workday. I just turned my radio off yesterday for the first time while I worked. Makes for a very long boring workday. I don't know how I can keep up with my favourite country artists. Very depressed.

Claudia
November 17, 2009 / 08:30

One day, i'm listening to it, then the next day, it's some old crap that I don't want to hear. Brantford has one of these stations already, 92.1. It's been around forever, will never change and is a dull dull dull as it gets.

95.3 was the best country station, I'm a cowgirl, why they took away my toons while slopping horse stuff.... is beyond me. If a station like 92.1 can get enough business to keep going, I can't possibly see why 95.3 couldn't have done it.

Claudia
November 17, 2009 / 08:43

Someone had asked about other country stations. 103.9 is reletively good and perhaps will hold loyalty a little higher than the people of 95.3

Brian
November 17, 2009 / 08:59

I am of the age group the new format is targeted at. I love the old stuff from the sixties.....when I was 15 years old ! If I wanted to listen to this stuff, I would just tune in any of the other "Oldies" stations.

I want my new country back.... I can't believe there is no market.I know very few that are not outraged by this change.

It's a sad day for all country fans...... I wonder who will sponsor all the country tours now?

Just can't imagine a day with-out Toby !




Grace
November 17, 2009 / 09:05

I am with Pam and Sheila, country music in the GTA will never be the same.
I will miss the station very much.
I will not be listening to this new format (switched the same day).

I was not even sure of what was happening when the music suddenly changed.

I agree with another listener(Jane, I think) who suggested that we start our own country station, count me in.

They did not consult the current listeners about the new format.

Jane
November 17, 2009 / 09:43

What a sad day I feel like I've lost my best friend. Like we really need another rock station. What about country music fans. Who said the baby boomers are all about rock. I think we deserve at least one country station. And now the people that grew up on country music just quit cold turkey !!!!!!!!
This really sucks !!!!!!

EDD
November 17, 2009 / 10:09

Why the change. It seems like 95.3 is always changing formats. When the country was flat I would tune away but I always tuned back because when my style of country was airing it was fun and new and truly great.

Will miss country music

Mary D.
November 17, 2009 / 10:34

Hey guys sign the on-line petition listed above by Melissa Smith on Nov. 16th. There are almost 400 signatures on already. Can't hurt, forward to all your friends & family after.

Marg
November 17, 2009 / 10:38

Hey Everyone: I tuned into Kix 106, which is 106.7 on the dial. They are from K-W area and do not have a very strong signal. I emailed them and asked them if they thought of increasing their signal as there is a huge potential for their station if they do. What I liked about it was that both their website and on air is welcoming former 95.3 listeners and assuring them that they are committed to Country. They sound like they're community oriented too. Give it a try and see if you like it. The morning show consists of 2 girls, called the Kix Chicks and they are both local (one from Hamilton). Hope you can get it. I'm in Hamilton, and in the car it comes in strong sometimes, then fades, then comes back again. I will put up with it as I have a short drive and hopefully they will increase their range. What other option is there anyway?

jeff
November 17, 2009 / 10:41

95.3 was a awsome station. so what are the other station then that play country music in the gta. this just suck now

Debbie
November 17, 2009 / 10:48

Hey Everyone, I too am very disappointed with the loss of our Country Station. Obviously the owners of this station do not know the meaning of loyalty. I only hope that they gave the employees a little more notice than their listeners and if this is the way they treat their listeners, I WONT BE LISTENING! Best of luck to Lea, Paul, Brad, Olive Oil and the rest of the Country crew, I hope that you can somehow let your faithful listeners know where you are!

BLN
November 17, 2009 / 11:00

www.PetitionOnline.com

HI Everyone - go sign the petition - maybe they will get the message!!
I have changed all my radios and have taken 95.3 off ! Hope everyone will do the same so the rating is the lowest ever!

Heather
November 17, 2009 / 11:05

I'm definitely NOT excited about another rock station and the loss of the only country music station worth listening to. To say that it was the lowest rated station is obsurd. If it was the lowest, I'd really like to know the definition of low. People all over were listening to it! I'm a downtown Toronto kind of girl and I absolutely loved that station. If I am driving with my windows down in downtown Toronto and drive by people cranking the same music???? Give me a break! Do the right thing - bring the station back.

Heather
November 17, 2009 / 11:10

Sign the petition and see if we can get it to come back:

http://www.petitiononline.com/BTNC953B/petition.html

Carlee
November 17, 2009 / 13:47

I will not be listening to the new station. Poor marketing choice.

TheSpec.com
November 17, 2009 / 14:20

Country radio goes quiet TheSpec.com - Business - Country radio goes quiet
Format doesn't rope in enough listeners, company says

Steve Arnold
The Hamilton Spectator

(Nov 17, 2009)

It's all about the audience.

That's the simple reason behind the death of country music in Hamilton.

Fans of that genre were saddened Friday when the last country music radio station in the area -- CING-FM, The New Country 95.3 -- suddenly switched formats, dropping Garth Brooks for the Rolling Stones.

"Like any business, we had to look at our long-term growth possibilities, and we didn't see long-term growth in country music," said Suzanne Carpenter, general manager of the three Corus Entertainment radio stations in Hamilton. "Country music is a niche, and once you have everyone who's that way inclined, there's no room for growth."

The new sound will be classic rock hits from the 1960s to 1980s. That music, Carpenter said, will bring ears to hear the commercials.

Creating an audience to sell to advertisers is the point of the entire media industry -- and it's an especially important task for money-losing Corus, which owns a number of radio stations and specialty TV channels. The company's most recent quarterly report showed a net loss of $145 million, a sharp turnaround from a $37.7-million profit a year earlier. But the radio division remained profitable, with earnings of $16.1 million for the third quarter and $45.2 million year-to-date. Those figures were down 35 per cent and 25 per cent, respectively, from the previous year.

"We're profitable, but we've certainly been challenged by the economy," Carpenter said. "So far this year our sales have been soft, but they're recovering."

That recovery might take some time, warned Lori Beckstead, professor in the radio-television arts faculty at Ryerson University.

A format change, she said, makes sense when it opens the station to the possibility of tapping a larger audience -- and baby boomers who remember the music of the '60s and '70s are a huge audience. But getting them to tune in to a new station could take up to a year.

Ian Morrison, spokesperson for Friends of Canadian Broadcasting, a Canadian content watchdog, agrees this kind of format shift matches the aging of Canada's population and is a good way "to seize more audience share in a new genre."

Listener reaction wasn't as understanding. As soon as the last country song died on the station, listeners crowded onto online discussion boards to voice their disapproval. At torontomike.com, a fan with the screen name Sheila moaned, "The last thing this area needed was another Rock station ... Talk about bad judgment."

Jared T declared, "Country 95.3 was a fantastic radio station and a great refuge from the kind of radio 95.3 has now become."

Hamilton has five FM and three AM radio stations serving an audience of 652,468 potential listeners over age 12. According to the most recent ratings by BBM Canada, CKLH (K-Lite) is the market leader with its adult contemporary music, followed in order by CHML (news/talk), CJXY-FM (classic rock), CING-FM (now classic rock), CKOC (oldies), St. Catharines-based CHTZ-FM (rock), CIWV-FM (smooth jazz) and CHAM (news/talk).

Mary r
November 17, 2009 / 14:27

I say we MARCH on the offices of Corus Hamilton. Bring your cowboy hats, signs, horns, BIG Green Tractors, Boots and whatever else you can think of. Meet at 9:53am this Saturday and crank the volume of your favorite Country Song!

Steve
November 17, 2009 / 14:55

Some lucky station should pick up the Country Genre, and for whoever does, they will address a portion of the community that has just been done a disservice with 95.3 changing its’ format. IF Corus was really committed to the community, it would have kept the station format vs. letting it go. Rating numbers do not tell all, my sense is they supported a decision that was going to be made for only business reasons. Sorry Corus, all of your stations will be off of my list of favorite stations. IF you bring Country back, I’ll listen again. Until then, thanks for Satellite radio.

Spencer C
November 17, 2009 / 15:11

Look at this article in today's Hamilton Spectator. It explains why the format change, but is still a bunch of BS:

http://www.thespec.com/News/Business/article/674120

Also try and tune into KICX 106.7 or their website. It's funny how they're bashing 95.3 saying "welcome fans of the former country 95.3, and we are committed to our listeners" Finally a radio station has some balls and some loyalty, unlike Corus.

Spencer C
November 17, 2009 / 15:12

oooops someone has beaten me to the chase

Michaela
November 17, 2009 / 15:54

so sad that Country 953 is gone!! Does anyone know what happened to Lea? Obviously Paul will still be with CMT - but what about all the other announcers? I guess Bob Steel picked a good time to move!

rick
November 17, 2009 / 16:33

i am very disappointed in the higher up decision.this station will never fly.all country listeners turn that dial to 106.7

sam s
November 17, 2009 / 16:44

ius to live out west and moved here found this great country station now its gone and no other decent country station to listen to you no good low down dirty stupid people give us back our country station

Karen
November 17, 2009 / 16:58

I'm with Mary r if she is serious I will totally be there with my cowboy hat and sign telling them how I feel. Let's go country fans and show them how we feel.

Karen
November 17, 2009 / 16:59

I'm with Mary r if she is serious I will totally be there with my cowboy hat and sign telling them how I feel. Let's go country fans and show them how we feel.

Urban
November 17, 2009 / 18:06

I am the real deal all Canadian Country Singer, and I will come to Hamilton if I have to in order to fix this problem with 95.3

treasure
November 17, 2009 / 18:07

OK People this seriously sucks I gave it the station a chance all day today...its alright but its not country music...or should we say the new soft rock ...more like the 80s soft rock sound...

as far as 95.9...the music is good but its hard to recieve!!! But Im sorry to say the hosts suck...I was listening on the way home....if only I could find a pillow!!!! Sad times...

Esther
November 17, 2009 / 18:10

I dunno about anyone else but I live two hours away from TOronto and I still listened to this station all the time. I can't believe that they would shut this down so suddely!!

Anonymous
November 17, 2009 / 18:16

Treasure it's not all right they are playing music of the past and mostly from dead singers.

Jen from Brantford
November 17, 2009 / 19:40

When 95.3 changed to country I was NOT happy at all.... but I would switch to the station by habit here and there and suddenly I found myself listening all the time. I became the biggest country fan ever - something I had ALWAYS bashed in the past!!

I had never been to a concert before and went to see a Brad Paisley concert in March 2007. Well since then, my Mom and I have gone to 8 concerts!!! And each of these concert was packed.

Country is on the rise in this world and for all ages. I am 26 years old. It will be my style of music for the rest of my life. I have listened to LOTS of styles of music, and I still do on occasion, but there is nothing better than driving down the road singing the words to so many country songs.

Mookie and Lea were my FAVOURITE combo (no one is really mentioning Mookie, so I thought I would) but Lea and Paul became my morning show.

It sucks to wake up without them :(

Karen
November 17, 2009 / 19:59

Well if it was not being listened too, explain why we could never get through when we tried to call 1-800-953-2464??
If they think Country 953 was not being listened to, wait until nobody tunes into the new copy cat station they have now. Really I ask you, how many of these 60,70 & 80's radio stations do we need?
We will miss you Lea, Paul, Laura, Olive Oil and Brad!
Please bring country music back to the dial!

Kim
November 17, 2009 / 20:25

I listened to this radio station everyday and when I was in the car. I was very surprised when I got in my car and was listening to music I don't like. I am truly disapointed.

Nancy
November 17, 2009 / 20:50

I can't tell me how distressed I was to find my favorite radio station playing oldies the other day. At first I thought it was a mistake but alas that was not so.
I listened to the country music and always enjoyed it. I will not be listening to the new 95.3. It is a great disappointment to have another oldies station. Please wake up and bring back our country music and all the wonderful people who made 95.3 the great station it was.

Maureen
November 17, 2009 / 21:09

I am really upset with 95.3 changing formats. There isn't another pure country station that I can get on my radio in the Hamilton area. I listened on a radio all day at work, I do not have access to a computer to listen to another station on-line at work. I quit listening to 820 CHAM when they quit playing country and have been listening to COUNTRY 95.3 ever since. I feel sorry for all the staff who lost there jobs, they made the station worth listening too. Hopefully there will be another station playing COUNTRY in my area soon but there will never be another 95.3. I listen to cds or my mp3 now, not my radio.

Susan
November 17, 2009 / 21:24

Well, I am very disappointed with the Corus descion as with everyone else. I also have deleted 95.3 from my presets and if I can't find a country station that I like I will be purchasing a satelite radio that will never be set to corus station also. I am 40 and I don't want anything to do with the new format!! If I wanted to listen to that I would have for the last 7 years instead of 95.3 as the only station allowed on in my vehicle!! This is NOT listening to their valued loyal listeners if it was our Country would still be playing!!! Very bad choice Corus (Suzanne) Underestimating your Country Loyal listeners thinking we want to listen to the junk you are playing now!!!!

Susan
November 17, 2009 / 21:24

Well, I am very disappointed with the Corus descion as with everyone else. I also have deleted 95.3 from my presets and if I can't find a country station that I like I will be purchasing a satelite radio that will never be set to corus station also. I am 40 and I don't want anything to do with the new format!! If I wanted to listen to that I would have for the last 7 years instead of 95.3 as the only station allowed on in my vehicle!! This is NOT listening to their valued loyal listeners if it was our Country would still be playing!!! Very bad choice Corus (Suzanne) Underestimating your Country Loyal listeners thinking we want to listen to the junk you are playing now!!!!

Lynne
November 17, 2009 / 21:25

It's a sad, sad, day. I can't believe how the loss of my favourite station made me feel. I have been listening the last 3 years but recently have been telling everyone I know about it and now they won't get a chance to hear it. BTW, I did the radio survey and I live in Hamilton - around the corner from 95.3!!!

Brittany
November 17, 2009 / 21:54

If you're going to take away a good station, at least replace it with a decent one.

Oh, and I feel I should mention I am 19 and not a redneck either, I just have good taste in music.

Dan
November 17, 2009 / 22:02

I completely agree Brittany. I enjoy country music and barely listen to any other genre. In fact 95.3 was #1 on my radio station button in my car. If they're going to replace the country music, why replace it with music from the 60's? It's just another radio station that only seniors and middle-aged individuals will listen to and will never get the same recognition.

roach1974
November 17, 2009 / 22:23

here is Suzanne Carpenters email address
let her know what you think
Suzanne.Carpenter@corusent.com

roach1974
November 17, 2009 / 22:29

here is their comment box email
comments@corusent.com

Anonymous
November 17, 2009 / 23:07

country 95.3 will live forever 95.3 Greatesr hits can burn in hell...I'm boycoting your shit until i get my country back....until then later 95.3

Kathy
November 17, 2009 / 23:10

I live in Buffalo, NY and LOVED Country 95.3. I kept thinking "What's wrong?" when I was trying to listen to my favorite station. Every morning driving to work, really enjoyed the friendly conversation between Lea and Paul. Even got the signal while traveling to Erie, Pennsylvania and Cleveland, Ohio... across Lake Erie. No way I'll listen to the new format. I love country music!

Hell
November 17, 2009 / 23:21

There's no such place as hell for music let's just stay on the topic at hand, OK? Alrighty then,

Paul
November 17, 2009 / 23:25

This blows who's the idiot who decided this!? So now we get another radio station that plays the same crap as the others. Where am I to listen to Country now!?

BRING BACK COUNTRY 95.3 !!!

Anonymous
November 17, 2009 / 23:43

KICX 106 from Orillia is a better station anyways.

Anonymous
November 17, 2009 / 23:45

KICX 106 from Orillia is a better station anyways. Shamefully we cannot catch it down in the GTA.

Marlena
November 18, 2009 / 00:04

Talking about feeling lost! Myself and my family are very disappointed about the no given notice of country 95.3 closure. Just like that gone! That's not fair after all these years we've been truly dedicated listeners and fans. Do you understand country music speaks from the heart of the artists. Country music was my best therapy that calmed me down after a stressful day at work. I'm sure others can relate to what I'm saying. This was the best medicine all around. It's so hard to find another station or get good reception in Vaughan. Can't pick up any other station around, now we're stuck listening to our CD's. This is a sad day for country music and it's loyal listeners.

David
November 18, 2009 / 07:18

What has happened to Lee and Paul? Lee just bought a new house. Paul has a new family. Did they know? Where are they?

Joan
November 18, 2009 / 08:19

I can't believe the ratings were so horrible for country 95.3. I live in Simcoe, and can't get any country station to come in clearly. I am so upset. I can't listen to the music they play now. I think they should have changed a couple of the shows to the new format if they needed to, but left a couple for the country fans. There are so many upset people. I feel lost without my county. Have gone to online listening Y101 Ottawa. I want country!!!!

New Country Station
November 18, 2009 / 08:29

It looks as those these sons of bitch's have their minds made up about 95.3,so let's move on forward and find someone who is interested in starting a Country Station with a very strong signal. Forget 95.3 they had burned them selves. Let's move on.

Debbie
November 18, 2009 / 08:54

Asses..... not much else to say. first Jack now 95.3 are they going to leave me anything to listen to?

Vicki
November 18, 2009 / 08:56

I am so mad, how can they go from country to oldies PLEASE as if there are not enough radio stations playing oldies. I WILL NOT BE listening to the new station and have removed it from my selections. Give me a country radio station just like how 95.3 country was I want it back

Vicki
November 18, 2009 / 08:56

I am so mad, how can they go from country to oldies PLEASE as if there are not enough radio stations playing oldies. I WILL NOT BE listening to the new station and have removed it from my selections. Give me a country radio station just like how 95.3 country was I want it back

Dave
November 18, 2009 / 08:56

The big picture is what really sucks. What about the Canada Day Jam and the video dance parties in our small communities and did they get rid of Laura, Lea,Derek, Olivia or put them behind the scenes somewhere. That would suck 'cause they were alot of fun on the air. We lost Bob but at least he left to another job. Their website is no more too and if you collected points and were trying to win something in particular that is gone too. They really did not give a crap about their listeners. I can't find country anywhere on my radio now. Very upset and frustrated.

Vicki
November 18, 2009 / 08:57

I am so mad, how can they go from country to oldies PLEASE as if there are not enough radio stations playing oldies. I WILL NOT BE listening to the new station and have removed it from my selections. Give me a country radio station just like how 95.3 country was I want it back

Mike from Lowville
November 18, 2009 / 09:16

I know of a bunch of people that are pissed. Corus needs to find another business to screw with. How about selling blank VHS tapes?

Missy
November 18, 2009 / 09:17

What a shame! You have taken the best station off the air! We won't be listening to that same old crap you've replaced it with.....

dayle
November 18, 2009 / 09:22

try 106.7. They are "welcoming" all of us 95.3 fans.... so where exactly did they get those low rating stats??? Has anyone counted how many posts are on this page ?

Gail
November 18, 2009 / 10:35

Maybe they surveyed only people between the ages of 18 and 38. Apparantly that age group is the only one the advertisers are interested in. Must have something to do with who is spending money.

Brenda
November 18, 2009 / 10:51

I'm wondering if those ratings are for the city of Toronto only.

Gail
November 18, 2009 / 10:53

Remembering all my trips to work on Friday between noon and one when a listener could win the pizza lunch for all their co workers and choose they music for the whole hour. I would try to come up with my own list and find it so hard to limit my favourites to one hour. Really miss hearing Sam Cook (such a fresh and positive personality) who could always put me in a good mood for work. CD's are fine but where will we hear Brad Paisley's newest creations. I love the way he mixes humour in with a serious message.

Curtis
November 18, 2009 / 11:01

No reason, no warning they just left. I'm 20, I listen to 95.3 everyday all day (literally from 7:30am to 5:45) and now I have no country station I can pick up at work (in Fonthill near St. Catharines). Such a shame! At least I will be heading back to University soon and will be able to listen to KIX 106! Not nearly as good though!
RIP 95.3 you will be missed!
As for the ratings... I think they are bias and absurd. I hope another station realizes the huge market for country music in Southern Ontario! 95.3 has made a huge mistake!

paul
November 18, 2009 / 11:02

Pissed that there is no more half decent country music station in the GTA, 95.9 is in and out depending on where you are...hope Lee finds herself another good gig. Guess Bob Steele new what was going on when he left to go to Calgary...

Curtis
November 18, 2009 / 11:10

Can we please all go to http://www.thenew953.com/ and click the request button in the top right and request some country music?
=)

Pat
November 18, 2009 / 12:24

WTF what is happening here? First we lost KISS 92.5, then KICX 104 moved out of range and now 95.3. I live in Orangeville and radio reception is iffy but 95.3 was loud and clear. What are we supposed to listen to now? I don't think its fair that everyone who likes country music has to settle for rock. This genre is popular, a lot of the people I know listen to it. We need a good strong country station for the west including Orangeville, Shelburne, etc.

David
November 18, 2009 / 12:30

I will most definitely not sign any petition. I will not send any emails. I will not try to get them to change back in any way. If they suddenly realize they made a mistake and revert to country, I will not listen. 95.3 has proven that it doesn't trust its listeners, so I will not trust them. I've moved on. 95.9 when I'm in Toronto, 106.7 when I'm in KW, and CDs when I'm in between, but never 95.3 again.
No news, no warning, not even a DJ to sympathize and try to get you to stay. They give nothing, they get nothing ever again.

Karen
November 18, 2009 / 13:34

Hey there Toronto Mike....Just to inform you That I was contacted by tele phone this late summer or early fall regarding a survey from Toronto regarding listenership of local radio stations. They asked if I was willing to participate and I was sent 2 packages with for myself and my son. I was asked how many people resided in the household. When I arrived within the week...there was the survey and a $5.00 bill in each envelope to cover the inconvenience of filling out the survey...You were to list stations and times that you had listed to the radio in 15 minute intervals for 1 week. then send it back in the enclosed envelope. funny thing is I did not know how to Identify 95.3 by any station code such as CHML or whatever and actually called the people performing the survey "the call number if you had any questions".regarding my querie. I was told they did not know and not to worry about it. I HOPE THESE WERE NOT THE PEOPLE WHO CONDUCTED THE SURVEY BECAUSE THEY DON'T SEEM TO KNOW THERE ASSES FROM A HOLE IN THE GROUND WOULDN'T YOU SAY ...MISTER TORONTO MIKE...By the way I took the time to do that survey to support my radio station ..maybe they should have had a comment page to actually make comments of support for something the listeners enjoy...GET A LIFE MR. TORONTO MIKE...MAYBE YOU ARE THE KIND OF GUY WHO ACTUALLY LISTENS TO THE FOUL CRAP ON 102.1 The Edge. I CANNOT BELIEVE SUCH DISGUSTING CRAP IS ALLOWED TO AIR FOR PUBLIC EARS AND THE BELITTLING OF TROUBLED SOULS THEY BRING ON THEIR SUPPOSED SHOW TO TRY TO MAKE THE HOSTS SEEM LIKE THEY MIGHT HAVE BRAIN MATTER BETWEEN THEIR EAR!!!! So don't give me your garbage about where I should look up your info...I wish I had kept the survey ..I would have sent it to you...I hope somebody somewhere picks up all the staff from 95.3 because they didn't deserve this.. just more corporate bullshit and cleaning house is all I can say....

elvis
November 18, 2009 / 14:11

Why are you so mad at Toronto Mike, Karen? He's just a regular dude who does this blog on his spare time. I've seen the inside of his closet and there is a cowboy hat in there.

dave
November 18, 2009 / 15:04

did the on air personalities even know they were getting bounced ? the departure from country seemed very sudden ?? not happy at all and willnot be listening to new format

chief
November 18, 2009 / 15:13

the CMAs is hamilton now ??? Paul Mcguire gone and Lee ?? and brads terrible song ?? what were you idiots thiking making this change?? This will come back to haunt you !!!! Y106.7 i Kitchener will pick up your market now, I will never listen to 95.3 again and will deliberatly boycot any products they advertise

elvis
November 18, 2009 / 15:42

On air personalities, rarely, if ever, know of a format change. It's too risky.

Erin
November 18, 2009 / 16:58

I just moved within frequency of the country station to find out it's no longer country. I've been a faithful listener ever since I went to school in 2002 and discovered it. Why change? There is so much other music on the radio just like what you are now playing. Coming back to a country station that I know and like was going to be one of the familiar, comforting things to get used to my move. Forget that. I am thoroughly disappointed. Where is there another country station that comes in clear to Hamilton and surrounding area? I'd like to know. Country 95.3 Is where I first heard Doc Walker and have now been to two of their concerts as a result. Bad move, to leave country music in the dust, if you ask me. If radio music is about the listeners, why not start-up a petition so the format might be able to stay the same, instead of changing out of the blue.

Karen M
November 18, 2009 / 17:28

I was totally shocked on my drive home from work after working a 12 hour shift on Nov 13th only to find Country 95.3 was no longer. I looked forward to a relaxing drive home ever evening listening to the former Country 95.3 I don't know where they ever got the 1.1 ratings from. I think who ever decided to switch the format to the oldies must of been smoking some WACKY TOBACKY or something. If there are no country music listeners in the GTA well then how do the Country artists manage to sell out the ACC and other arenas when they come to this area. Luckily I live in the Waterloo region so I am able to pick up 106.7. I certainly hope someone decides to start up another Country radio station in the GTA soon because how many more oldie radio stations do we need. Country 95.3 was #1 in my books and I don't recall any one asking for my vote. Who ever decided to change the format of 95.3 will only be getting a piece of coal in their stocking from me this year for Christmas. DOWN WITH THE NEW 95.3 OLDIES!!!!!!!!!!!

Harold
November 18, 2009 / 19:07

where do i find a country music station to listen to now in Toronto now i will miss country 95.3 bring it back please

Bill from Bolton
November 18, 2009 / 19:26

Who ever made this decision, Suzanne Carpenter or whoever, it's going to come back and bite you. You got rid of the best DJ'S, the best format, and most of all the best music in the WORLD !!! This is obvoiuosly a budgeting thing to try and maximise your profit. It ain't gonna work. I along with all the former listeners hope, no PRAY that you fail !!!

Derek
November 18, 2009 / 19:52

One thing we must all remember, its Corass running the show and whats good for Corass is good for the listeners!

CountryBoy
November 18, 2009 / 20:12

The only way to get their attention is by hitting them in their pocket book. People should notify their advertisers that we will be boycotting any business that advertises on this new format station. Corus is more interested in their bottom line than they are in their listeners.

jess
November 18, 2009 / 20:23

OMG!! why would they do that!? i went to listen to the radio last night and turned on my pre programmed station and realised i was listening to some stupid OLDIES song im likew wtf where did it go!? like seriously that was my fave station i mean like who listens to oldies besides old people!! i wasnt even born when they made those songs y put them back on the radio!! im 16 years old and i loved that station, grew up listening to country and truely loved it! now what will i listen to!? im so mad!!

Isaac
November 18, 2009 / 20:58

Does anyone know how to get in touch with Lee and Paul....people can't just disappear! Perhaps they could log on and let people know what they are doing.

what happened to 95.3?
November 18, 2009 / 21:04

what happened to 95.3?

what happened to 95.3?

Chris - Toronto
November 18, 2009 / 21:08

I can't believe they would change the format I for one will not be listening to 95.3

Jill
November 18, 2009 / 21:13

God is great , beer is good and this woman is CRAZY !

Anonymous
November 18, 2009 / 21:52

Truly disappointing..I will miss COUNTRY 95.3 and will NOT be listening to the "new 953".

Mike
November 18, 2009 / 22:21

Already deleted 95.3 from my vehicles....if I wanted oldies, I'd listen to 107.9.

Kicks 106....106.7 in KW.

eddie
November 18, 2009 / 23:51

disappointed ? YES... pissed? YES.... WILL NOT BE LISTENING TO THE NEW STATION LIKE OTHERS HAVE SAID IF i WANTED OLDIES i TUNED INTO ANOTHER STATION.
95.3 WAS MY COUNTRY STATION AND i ENJOYED IT DAILY.. IT WILL BE MISSED. DONT CARE ABOUT THE NEW STATION i TRULY HOPE IT FAILS AS WELL...

Alex B
November 18, 2009 / 23:59

I'm am extremely disapointed that they are no longer with us. I listened every single morning for my two hour commute. I will not be listening to the new station. Quite frankly nothing could or ever will compare. I actually cried over this news. It may seem ridiculous to some, however this made my morning. Obviously there wasn't enough. However, I would like this to be a warning to not just people who love country but to whatever music you love, support your stations. In economic struggles, there are moments of rise and change, lets make positive that no more changes like this occur. Have a wonderful evening.

shawn
November 19, 2009 / 00:03

I listened to 95.3 all day long while driving on the city streets, it was the only thing that kept me sane out there... it's just to bad they didn't know the real truth that people were listening and do care about country music......don't know what you have till it's gone.....im gone country....

Sue
November 19, 2009 / 01:04

I was so disappointed to discover that the format had changed on 95.3. My teenage daughter and her best friend starting listening to country at the beginning of this summer. Before I knew it, I was also hooked. I am amazed at the number of young people that were actually listening to the station and are now upset with this decision. We have been looking around for a new country station and so far we have found one but the reception isn't the greatest. Very disappointed!!!!! Satelite radio might now be an option?

News
November 19, 2009 / 08:29

The only way that any of this will come to any type of resolve is to go to the media, that's why we have invented it and not to hide behind Mikes fucken Blog. This won't do anything but build up readers and 95.3 will continue laughing at all of us. I have done my part in complaining to the media, but I haven't heard anything yet so nobody is doing any of that. So go ahead and keep on writing here and waisting valuble time that's what they want so they can win and say what a bunch of ingrates and losers. And they are write. So either step up to the media plate like I did or just get rid of this stupid blog that means absolutley shit.

Toronto Mike
November 19, 2009 / 09:02

@News

Let me introduce you do this brave new world where Google is the gateway to information. When advertisers and Corus personnel search the web for "country 93.5" where do you think they'll end up?

That's right. They'll be right here, overwhelmed by the response and reading your words. This "stupid blog that means absolutely shit" will forever be archived and easily accessible for anyone who wants to read about Country 93.5.

That's not happening with "the media". It's 2009, I'd say you're "wasting valuable time".

Sam
November 19, 2009 / 09:35

So then tells us something then Toronto Mike!!!! where do we stand for country music? Please answer us all that question or do you even give a crap?

Toronto Mike
November 19, 2009 / 09:41

@Sam

Where I stand for country music is completely irrelevant. This isn't my battle to fight. This is your war.

But, this is my site, and I'm more than happy to give country music fans in Southern Ontario this page to plead their case. There is power in numbers.

I encourage all Country 95.3 fans to leave a comment below. Whether I give a crap or not shouldn't matter.

Jade
November 19, 2009 / 10:12

I can't believe they got rid of country 95.3! I listened to it all the time! Now 95.3 has been taken off my presets. I don't think I'll have the need to tune in to it anymore. This is such a shame, they were a really great station - I will definitely miss listening to it. 95.9 is good too, but their signal isn't as good and it ends up fuzzy a lot of the time. *sigh*

Jade
November 19, 2009 / 10:15

~as a side note~

Thank you, Toronto Mike, for the use of your site for this purpose. When I searched for country 95.3 in google, this was exactly where it brought me.

I agree, there is power in numbers.

Barry
November 19, 2009 / 13:02

Suzzane Carpenter, et al, just shows that the intellectually impaired rise to the top again! (Is she a politician?)what a stupid move. The air waves in Orangeville, Caledon and area are silent today! Anybody heard where the morning show gang are now?

Chris F.
November 19, 2009 / 14:10

Hmmm, Well according to the ratings they needed a kick in the pants but yeah...I just looked at the site and they have a listing of the songs they've played today as well as a player so you can listen.

Um...The kind of oldies they're playing just don't cut it anyways. It's a step in the wrong direction. Maybe they should've went with a Country Oldies format instead.

Play Somethin' Country
November 19, 2009 / 14:16

Everyone go to the web site of the "new Oldies 95.3, hit request a song, then type ....."Play Something Country" by Brooks & Dunn
330 + requests otta keep em busy for a while....

anon
November 19, 2009 / 15:03

Send your emails to this address: scarpenter@corusent.com
Staion manager's email, deluge it with angry letters and if there's any hackers out there send this bitch a virus.

Marg
November 19, 2009 / 15:13

To reply to an earlier blog about Mookie Wilson. He has a morning show in Winnipeg and sounds as great as ever. Check out http://www.qx104fm.com/ In Ontario, he's on until 11 am because of the time difference.
Also I replied to one of Olivia's emails and asked about the staff. She wrote me back that she was working there still in promotions. Nothing was said about anyone else.

Shannon Reynolds
November 19, 2009 / 19:03

Wow..I'm lost! For the last week I keep going back to the station and I am truly shocked that there is no more country music coming out of my speakers!! All I can say is somehow someway BRING IT BACK!

Shannon Reynolds
November 19, 2009 / 19:05

Oh yeah..and I don't know about anyone else..BUT..Thanks for the warning! Thought I had lost my mind!

Chris B
November 19, 2009 / 20:33

So let me get this straight. 7 years ago you discovered that you're format wasn't working, so you switched to country music. Bamm instant hit!! it worked well for this many years, what has changed in this time frame, except that country music is more popular than it's ever been?? I don't know who made this decision, but you can't be the sharpest pencil in the box. It doesn't take a genius to figure out what's popular and what isn't. I'm going to miss this station, but I had a feeling this was coming on when they got rid of their best DJ in Mookie. Truely sad and disappointing. If we wanted old stuff, we'd ask for it!!!!

Kim C
November 20, 2009 / 03:07

Chris B, I agree with you totally! My opinion, New 95.3 is horrible, can't even stand listening to it for 5 minutes, won't be tuning in again. Loved Mookie, Country 95.3 was never the same after he left. Now, it's just another station that will get lost in the woodwork. I am sure it will not do well.

John Ross Harvey
November 20, 2009 / 11:11

As a regular listener and contributor to the morning show at Country 95.3, I lost not only music but friends. The ratings stated are obviously based on an alternate reality. Canada Day Jams were crowded with over 100,000 people and their cars causing traffic chaos at Sunnyside Park and further east at the other park. The top act in the entire music industry is a country artist.
She even did a mean SNL hosting job. NEW95.3 Oldies is a bloddy Oxymoron, if anyone should be fired it should be the pencil pushers that came up with the name!
Paul will be OK, he has TV, and he's the best interviewer this side of Plimpton. Lea has a great following and needs to return to radio somewhere. I am getting 95.9, the DJs are bearable, the signal is weak north of 401, but returns at 89.9 north of 88 apparently. Listen to qx104.com and Mookie's morning show from Manitoba starting at 6:30am Ontario time (EDT)
CHFI, CHUM, we have enough Oldies, Q107 is also Corus so for that reason I won't tune in now. 95.9 is spinning wheels like mad now to get a boosted signal, and already changed their marketing to GTA's only Country Station.
Some CRTC guidelines may prevent it from happening as expansion encroaches on London's 96FM station. If anything, a change on the dial is more probable than a boost to 95.9. American Idol is the #1 rated TV show every year its been on, their highest grossing Idol is a Country singer, Carrie Underwood. Possibly an Ottawa Senator's wife perhaps, who knows? How anyone can suddenly decide that the #1 country station in Canada is bad, and Oldies in a market full of them is good, is beyond human comprehension.
It's so stupid, it defies logic. I am a Bilingual Vulcan.

Rob
November 20, 2009 / 11:32

There is a country station still left in S Ont in Kitchener. It is 106.7 - there are some people at this station that used to be at 820 CHAM in Hamilton (another former county station). I hope this helps the die hard country fans.

Die Hard fans?
November 20, 2009 / 12:44

Are you joking? we are far from die hard. Country is huge, where the hell have you been hiding to call us die hard fans?

Hari Bol
November 20, 2009 / 12:53

Don't worry about some stupid Radio Station, it will all come to a glorious end very soon. Humans are so petty and fight over the dumbset things. I must admit Humans are such cry babies over spilt milk. I can understand why ignorant babies cry, but why are we still being ignorant after the baby bodies have all grown up and educated. But wait, we are only educated Academically and only those things that we can see and touch. Well stop your nonsence about such foolishness and pettiness.

Stratocaster
November 20, 2009 / 13:12

I'm a musician and love cruising around on the radio so that I can hear a wide variety of musical genres. I think it's sad to to take away a station that opened up the minds of young musicians to new sounds. The oldies, well, I'm sick of hearing them, been there done that.

Boo Hoo Hoo
November 20, 2009 / 13:17

Oh Boo Hoo Hoo!!! cry babies Humans are such a stupid race of creatures.

Fancy
November 20, 2009 / 14:03

I was born and raised on Country - Old and New - so I am a life long fan. If and when I want to hear something from 60s-80s, I can tune into any number of 'oldies' stations #there must a dozen or more#.

However, like another blogger, I did give the new format a try - thought it was okay .. for a soft drink commercial maybe - but I am a country fan forever!

Anyway, after about an hour or so I realized there were no DJs at all - no Lea or Paul or Brad or anyone. Lee Eckly #sorry spelling sucks#does weather, but noone there to give us the chatty banter we like or announce uppcoming events being sponsored by COUNTRY music artists and radio personalities. Curious don't you think?

wendy
November 20, 2009 / 18:16

What Iam wondering what happen to Lea Cater, Brad all the crew at 95.3. It sucks the way that they changed the station like that. Not even a good bye to the loyal listeners. I changed all my radio stations. I am lucky that I can listen o 106.7 country. Going back to my other station. I would like to know if the crew at 95.3 country have other jobs at different radio station. Big mistake when you let go MOOKIE still pissed about that. Country fan stick together big big mistake.

Former95.3 Fan
November 20, 2009 / 20:23

Bunches of Bastards!

Laura
November 20, 2009 / 20:27

I certainly hope that someone from the "new" 95.3 takes a look at all these comments and sees what a mistake they are making. That station was the only country station in Toronto. Now we have to tune in to 95.9 and it isn't a very strong signal in Mississauga. The 2 stations they have as alternatives listed on their web site are both in CALGARY!!! Of course you can't get either station here so what is the point of that????

Greg
November 21, 2009 / 09:41

I am always amazed at how people lose their morals and "stones" when tough decisions must be made.

If you review the station managers' history, she has been through a few format changes at 95.3. I am only guessing but sounds like she doesn't have the courage to stand up for her staff or the listeners and take a stand, always siding for the company. I have no use for folks like that and i wonder how they sleep and keep their heads up.

As for Corus, hit them where it counts $$$. Talk to the advertisers, voice your displeasure. How many calls do you think East Hamilton Radio is prepared to take over the format change?

What about CMT? Corus owned. Look at thier ads. Call the advertisers. Every time you do, send both Sue and Corus an email. Perhpas then they will get the message that they are definately out to lunch.

Find a new station - Kitchener Area - 106.7 Kix
London Area - BX93

Support your new station's advertisers.

If you are members of country music artist fan clubs, let the folks in the forums know how displeased you are with Corus.

Make some money on Corus - short thier stock. It's obvious that Corus didnt realize the listnership volumes that they had.

I'm glad I'm a redneck! I fall into the age group of the "listener" 95.3 is trying to hit and I must say the new format sucks!

Randy
November 21, 2009 / 10:32

You can still get your Country Music fix on Sattelite Radio. Sirius Radio
has lots to chose from and no commercials. A win win.

LARRY
November 21, 2009 / 13:24

I think they have made a very bad decision dropping country music. Country 95.3 was a terrific stationt and the low ratings could not be a true indicarion of it populat base. Everyone i kow listened to it and no one every asked us. The fact that I'm even making a blog comment for the first time in my life is an indication of how pissed off with the station I am. I hope the new format dies a quick and painful death.

Kathy
November 21, 2009 / 13:37

I found this the best country music radio station and can't believe it had low ratings ... I live in Glasgow, Scotland and tuned in every day via computer I loved the show, they played all the best songs also the presenters were easy listening. There are so many oldies music stations on the radio, I won't be tuning in to 95.3 again.

Donna Griffin
November 21, 2009 / 15:31

Should have given the public warning of switching over the station from country to mix music. My family have been a long time fan of 95.3 and this was quite a suprise to us and we are very disappointed.

Mary
November 21, 2009 / 16:00

I'm with those who wonder what we need another OLDIES station for!!??
I'm in My Car for a good 2 hours each morning and was profoundly disappointed to find 95.3 GONE! I do listen to both kinds of music but If I want oldies I've got loads of options. What options do we have now for Country?. The West side of Toronto is in severe need of good country. 106 isn't to bad but the reception is poor and it definitely doesn't have the range that 95.3 had. I guess I now need to hope you guys at 106 can improve your range and the reception improves for me!

Do I think your going to be on the air in another year with oldies.....? I certainly hope not. Sorry but there is definitely enough of that out there!
DI guess I'm another one who is going to get the I-pod out in the car!

cindy
November 21, 2009 / 18:04

I think this is really not fair to all of the loyal listeners I quess I will just listen to my cds in the car and at home because all the other radio station's play nothing that I would listen to what a shame.........

Terry
November 21, 2009 / 19:07

I think it is bullshit that the ownership doesn't even consider the surrounding areas of the GTA and Hamilton. Us in the Niagara Region now have to tune into WYRK 106.5 Buffalo for our great country music. Only to lose that signal in St. Catharines. We also lose our Canadian country artist listening to the Buffalo station. 106.5 plays excellent country but no canadian artist. Bring back country to Niagara.

Patty
November 22, 2009 / 18:39

What an asinine thing to do. Absolutely no notice or indication of things to come! Some of the best Country Entertainment has come to the Toronto Area as a result of this radio station and its FAN Base. You truly have you head up your ass.

Angie
November 22, 2009 / 20:40

I'm extremely disappointed in the change and the way it was handled. I've switched to 106.7 - thanks for the suggestion everyone. Long live country music!

lost
November 22, 2009 / 23:02

maybe its a conspiracy to get people to subscribe to satellite radio... lol

Ive been living under a rock but on impulse I bought a Serius unit on the 13th coincidently the same time the station went under. Had an sneaky feeling something was about to happen deep down.

Ive been a listener since it switched over from the top40 station, but I started losing interest after Mookie, Sam, and several other personalities started to leave. Now I have to set up that satellite radio to get my fix.... grrrr.

Dave from Brampton
November 23, 2009 / 06:08

Wake up 95.3 !!! Look who the big winner was at the American Music Awards. I told you before Country is where it's at, it's taking over !!!

melissa
November 23, 2009 / 10:28

I can't believe that country 95.3 is now oldies! There are now no radio stations that play country music around toronto my friends and I partied and horseback rode to that station and now what are we going to listen to oldies?? I don't think so!! Thanks for ruiening the station everyone I know listens to every day!! No one likes oldies you guys made a huge mistake and if you 3e saying there is no market for country music think again!! Look how many people were at the royal winter fair!! I'm pissed you guys are gonna go bankrupt

Angela in new york state
November 23, 2009 / 11:09

I, too, was surprised at the change...and especially at the timing. Taylor Swift (not my fave but you gotta hand it to her) is one of the biggest things right about now, and so is country music for that matter. Have listened to 95.3 since Hal Ketchum was their first singer on it....and enjoyed hearing Canadian country artists because I can't hear that from the Buffalo country station. Will miss 95.3 and the DJs as well. Thought something was up when The Real Bob Steele left .... hmm.......

Lynda
November 23, 2009 / 12:00

Let's see, they change formats based on a listener survey for Toronto, when their listening audience was (note the WAS as most listeners appear to have jumped ship) basically Hamilton and the greater GTA plus a lot of southern Ontario. Screw loose somewhere in management.
A question for Mike, What is the longest time a blog has received comments about a station format change?

Dan
November 23, 2009 / 12:05

It would have been nice if your listeners were if formed of the change . I will find another station to listen to I don’t remember being asked to complete a survey. I am disappointed and I know a lot of other people are as well. Bad Move

Toronto Mike
November 23, 2009 / 13:30

This is the most comments on an entry about a radio format change.

There were 408 comments after Mix 99.9 fired Humble Howard.

Dan (the other one from above)
November 23, 2009 / 14:52

So, why no comments yet from the fired on air personalities? Why hasn't Lea talked at all? What does she have to say, or is there a Gag order on them?

what ever really happened to Mookie?

New 95.3 Oldies rock? That's what Q107 is for you idiots at Chorus. Trust me, you can't beat them no matter how hard you try.

And what's this junk about Country being a niche market? By definition, any brand of music is NICHE to that grouping. But you'd be surprised you bimbo to find out that many many many people cross the boundary depending on what mood they are in. For me, I love HEAVY METAL. But first thing in the morning, it doesn't work. First thing in the morning, I want Country. At Christmas, I don't want to rock, I want family oriented, good old north american values, again , COUNTRY.

Second, your country NICHE market has been expanding since the year 2000, and it blowing up faster than any other NICHE market. Jumpin ship now, when country is riding on a high and growing, when Taylor Swift can take all the awards she's given, and down with the rappers and hiphoppers. At a time when Garth is coming back, only the biggest country star of all time. At a time when Shania is finally going to release her new album. You drop the format at it's greates growing point? Your management skills are buried more with how to line your pockets NOW then with remaining with TRUE growth.

Robin
November 23, 2009 / 15:12

I will miss 95.3 country, there is really no where else to go with a clear signal. I won't be sticking around to listen to their new choice though that's for sure.

Judy
November 23, 2009 / 17:58

Waking up to my alarm and hearing R.E.S.P.E.C.T really turned my head around. Like many people out there,local oldies and classic rock stations have always been here to listen to, but to take away the ONLY surrounding area country station makes NO SENSE. I too would like to know where they got these ratings, I wasn't asked my listening station preference. Well I guess it'll be 106.7 Kitchener or Buffalo's 106.5 if you can get them. Both great stations can be foud o the internet!BTW what happens to the country radio hosts? Anyone know?

waynie
November 23, 2009 / 23:58

Country 95.3was pretty strict in format. they didnt get into the old hound dog music too much and they never got the elivs gospel or country tunes like hank snow ,erine tubbs and the rest of the patsey cline types, heck they didnt even play loretta lynn if at all. A little washbash cannonball never hurt anybody.

waynie
November 23, 2009 / 23:58

Country 95.3was pretty strict in format. they didnt get into the old hound dog music too much and they never got the elivs gospel or country tunes like hank snow ,erine tubbs and the rest of the patsey cline types, heck they didnt even play loretta lynn if at all. A little washbash cannonball never hurt anybody.

Connie & Shawn
November 24, 2009 / 10:08

Counrty 95.3 was the best -- What the heck happened? We can't believe the ratings were that low because everyone we know listened to Counrty 95.3. This really sucks because we can't seem to get decent reception from 106.7 Kitchener nor 95.9 from Durham .. where are we suppose to turn to for a good country station now ? Very, very disappointed!

Franco
November 24, 2009 / 11:25

Listen to 95.9 - Durham

or

106.7 - Kitchener

Don't waste your time with 95.3. They aren't worth it

Helen
November 24, 2009 / 15:19

My friends and I can't stand cheesy country music. The musicians even look cheesy. And line dancing...BORING!!! So bye bye to country 95.3 and hello to rock 95.3.

Dan
November 24, 2009 / 15:56

What a shame.... here in Niagara Falls all I can get is WYRK from Buffalo. Once i get to St Catherines its gone and KX 96 doesn't really come in. Satelite Radio is the way to go, I swear by mine, even more now.

wayne
November 24, 2009 / 23:40

This new format is a temp format. . When the real new format is envisioned the process will happen all over again.And perhaps the station that comes back will have a format of morning country,midday hip hop,afternoons livley feel good tunes and evenings romatic love songs and this old rock and roll during the 12am to 5am period. sometimes inovation can really be cool. But it appers this time old worn out tunes played again and again like a stuck record. limited tunes that would drive a person mad if they listened everyday. the fate of 95.3 is nothing at all a spin into oblivion and low ratings. THE ONLY WAY OUT IS TO OFFER MAJOR CONTESTS WITH TRIPS ,CARS,CRUISES,MONEY, AND IM SURE THEY WOULD HAVE THE BIGGEST AUDIENCE IN SOTHERN ONTARIO. HOPEFULLY THE DJS GET ANOTHER JOB IN THIS ECOMONY THE CHANGE IS OBVIOUSLY A COST SAVING MEASURE.

wayne
November 24, 2009 / 23:40

This new format is a temp format. . When the real new format is envisioned the process will happen all over again.And perhaps the station that comes back will have a format of morning country,midday hip hop,afternoons livley feel good tunes and evenings romatic love songs and this old rock and roll during the 12am to 5am period. sometimes inovation can really be cool. But it appers this time old worn out tunes played again and again like a stuck record. limited tunes that would drive a person mad if they listened everyday. the fate of 95.3 is nothing at all a spin into oblivion and low ratings. THE ONLY WAY OUT IS TO OFFER MAJOR CONTESTS WITH TRIPS ,CARS,CRUISES,MONEY, AND IM SURE THEY WOULD HAVE THE BIGGEST AUDIENCE IN SOTHERN ONTARIO. HOPEFULLY THE DJS GET ANOTHER JOB IN THIS ECOMONY THE CHANGE IS OBVIOUSLY A COST SAVING MEASURE.

wayne
November 24, 2009 / 23:40

This new format is a temp format. . When the real new format is envisioned the process will happen all over again.And perhaps the station that comes back will have a format of morning country,midday hip hop,afternoons livley feel good tunes and evenings romatic love songs and this old rock and roll during the 12am to 5am period. sometimes inovation can really be cool. But it appers this time old worn out tunes played again and again like a stuck record. limited tunes that would drive a person mad if they listened everyday. the fate of 95.3 is nothing at all a spin into oblivion and low ratings. THE ONLY WAY OUT IS TO OFFER MAJOR CONTESTS WITH TRIPS ,CARS,CRUISES,MONEY, AND IM SURE THEY WOULD HAVE THE BIGGEST AUDIENCE IN SOTHERN ONTARIO. HOPEFULLY THE DJS GET ANOTHER JOB IN THIS ECOMONY THE CHANGE IS OBVIOUSLY A COST SAVING MEASURE.

Jeff S
November 25, 2009 / 03:39

Well ... an era comes to an end. Media deceives us again with fake ratings. What do we care about Toronto ratings. The station is based in Hamilton. When I drive from school to my parents this station covered my trip from Toronto to Bayfield - all 2.5 hrs. Great personalities, great music. Corus has lost some quality customers for their programming, likely the most loyal. KX96 quality sucks. So lets hope BX93 in London now becomes the new "most listened to Country station in Canada", and Astral Media gets to have the loyalty, for a station that continues to support great country music.

Getfuckenoverit
November 25, 2009 / 08:15

We just have to getfuckenoverit that this Ontario is the biggest bullshit province in Canada. Chinese food sucks here, Greek Food really sucks here, B.C. is the place to be for the best life ever, I am going back home to my Vancouver Kitsilano area. Goodbye horrble Ontario. I will share my experiences when I get home. Blahh

Alan
November 25, 2009 / 08:49

What about the DJ's. Has anybody heard from them.
Are they out of work?
I can't get any country music stations to come in clearly....I travel with only my CD's now

txwikinger
November 25, 2009 / 09:07

What a shame. It was such a joy to listen to this tremendously good country music station going to and from work. I really miss it. Was on a business trip in Dallas (talking about country music) and did not even know what happened until I found this site. Well... 95.3 has certainly lost me now. Is there an address or e-mail for the station where I can complain?

What does it mean there is no market? Apparently, cowboys don't count anymore. Well, I guess I will take my cowboy hat somewhere else and if there is no other country music station here in the Waterloo Region, maybe it's time to start one!

Taylor
November 25, 2009 / 10:31

I am sorely disappointed in the move from Country to Oldies. This will be the first time in a long time that Toronto did not have a Country station that was available to a large audience (95.9's signal is fairly weak). I was upset when KISS 92.5 changed from country, but was glad when 95.3 picked up the baton. I guess we will wait to see who is next to bring Country back to the GTA airwaves.

scruffywilber
November 25, 2009 / 13:04

The airwaves are already saturated with the same content as the new 95.3 is broadcasting.

Thank God there is internet radio.

Bobby
November 25, 2009 / 23:20

BRING BACK COUNTRY 95.3!!!

Jason
November 26, 2009 / 00:17

Can't say I am a fan of country music at all but I do agree that Corus sucks. I used to listen to the Edge in Toronto all the time but even they changed. They don't play the hard rocking stuff like the used too and they play that Rap Crap now. So now I listen to the Edge in Buffalo.

Anna
November 26, 2009 / 10:38

This is not right, not right at all, we want our country station back, What is that comment, that our area is not country, there are a serious amount of Country fans still left in Southern Ontario, come on broadcasters, put country back on.

Jason
November 26, 2009 / 17:03

I agree Suzanne and Corus are a bunch of self ritious douche bags. They chop cut and stab wherever they see fit and screw everyone else along the way. How do they expect to gain listeners with the way they conduct business ?? I love the Edge 102.1 but even Blundell will tell you he expects the big axe anyday, even though they do very well. I'm all for keeping things fresh and changing a dj or two but when something works don't F&%$ with it !

Cheryl
November 26, 2009 / 18:29

This sucks bigtime. I grew up listening to country music and now I don't know what to play in the car. BRING BACK COUNTRY 95.3!!!!

gerald
November 27, 2009 / 08:51

EVERYTIME THIS HAPPENS TO ANY RADIO STATION THERE IS A LARGE AMOUNT OF PEOPLE THAT JUST TURN OFF THE RADIO AND THATS IT. tHEY DONT RETURN TO THAT PART OF THE DIAL. IM SURE THAT A LARGE PART OF THE AUDIENCE PROBLY WELL OVER 50% WILL NOT COME BACK TO THESE CALL LETTERS OR 95.3 ON THE DIAL SINCE THEIR LIFESTYLE DOESNT HAVE THIS TYPE OF MUSIC IN THEIR FORMAT. THIS IS A MANAGEMENT ERROR THAT WILL COST CORUS LISTENERS AND MARKET SHARE. wELL IT SEEMED LIKE A GOOD IDEA AT THE TIME . hOW MANY TIMES HAVE WE ALL HEARD THAT. I wonder where this audience will go and how it will progress ,im sure they will monitor the old country club and intergrate it to see how many sign up again or use the old country accounts for the new station. A boycott of the club and points asscoited will show you really care about country. , that will be about as close you will get to a protest.

Disappointed
November 27, 2009 / 11:19

I was a faithful listener to 95.3 New Country and since they changed to New 95.3 I don't even listen to them. I don't tune into any one station any more. BRING BACK NEW COUNTRY 95.3

Hetty
November 27, 2009 / 17:12

The personalities on Country 95.3 were so refreshing and entertaining. They seemed like real people who loved their jobs and the music they played. I really looked forward to listening in the morning and having a laugh. I miss that comfortable place to listen to music that has a tune and lyrics worth listening to. I still have cd's and satellite radio, but it's not the same as having something local, or nearly local. I hope someone who makes radio format decisions looks at all these comments from fans who feel so strongly and provides us all another great station that we can enjoy again. The audience is here, please play us some meaningful music.

Anonymous
November 27, 2009 / 20:03

No market for country music?! Brad Paisley, Kieth Urban, Kenny Chesney- does anyone know how hard it is to find tickets for these artists when they tour in toronto- umm near impossible! Within the first day they are pretty much all sold out... Gee I wonder why the heck that would be... and its not just adults who listen to country, those concerts where packed with teenagers in cowboy hats. These artists DID come through London and Hamilton so no-one can tell me that, that is why the Toronto shows sold out. Its simple Country music DOES have a big fallowing! Not to mention that its growing with artists like Carrie Underwood and Taylor Swift, who are bringing in the younger kids. I mean Country even has its own tv station.... CMT- thats not something that would happen if country didnt have a good fallowing. The largest country bar in North America- in Barrie Ontario... what is that like an hour from Toronto? I live in Woodstock, 95.3 was one of our 3 fm country stations... Im 99.9% sure more than 1.1% of people here have them pre-set in the car... Oh well I'm just waiting for someone in a position of power at SOME radio station that will have the sense Carpenter didnt.... Country music come back to the GTA!

Anonymous
November 27, 2009 / 20:39

If you have facebook join the group, 500ppl arent enough so get everyone who doenst love the new station to join. Facebook was the reason the teen driving laws werent changed the way the premier wanted them to be, why not give it a shot with media mougles? http://www.facebook.com/group.php?v=wall&gid=203905351390

Karen
November 29, 2009 / 20:49

There is no following for country music in the GTA? Has anyone been to the Havelock Jamboree (formerly sponsored by 95.3) Over 40,000 people attend and not just for the partying either!!!! I was away in New Brunswick when the station switched and got the shock of my life when I got in my car to drive home from the airport and no country music.....what a disappointment....you just lost another loyal listener!!!

cass
November 29, 2009 / 20:53

I'm so pissed at you, Hamilton lost the best contry staition ever, this new shit crap can p.off i wont listen to it I WANT MY COUNTRY NOW SO BRING IT BACK OR F-N DIE...

PISSED
November 30, 2009 / 10:30

Beside the fact that the new country 95.3 played great music, their hosts were fabulous at keeping me company on my long commutes everyday. This new oldies shit is not what i want to hear on my way to and from work. I tried the other country station 106.7 but the hosts voice drive me crazy and she drags her sentences, please bring back Lee and Paul for my morning drives! PLEASE!!!!

cheryl
November 30, 2009 / 22:24

i agree with pissed i cant stand listening to those two whiny voices on 106.7 in the morning sure i miss 953 TRMENDOUSLY but those two in the a.m. make me want to cut off my ears

Dave
November 30, 2009 / 23:25

Please !!! Somebody out there start up a new Country station. This new 95.3 SUCKS!!!

Larry T
December 2, 2009 / 13:07

What a disappointment! They, (Counry 95.3) had a great format, excellent DJs and it was refreshing to listen to, make that "participate in".
They will be missed and a Country return would be welcome.

Robert C
December 2, 2009 / 14:02

I am very sad listener, I drive a transport truck for a living. Country 953 was the only station I listened to. I listened to country 95.3 since day 1. management made a big mistake I think

Marcie
December 2, 2009 / 20:55

I am really disappointed that this ended, I really enjoyed
the station, and where am I going to get my OLIVE OIL recipes from

Colleen
December 4, 2009 / 10:41

Our entire family and most of our friends and neighbours all listened to 95.3. We were all flabbergasted at the format change. Now we are stuck with the Oshawa station that has a pathetic signal and playlist that leaves a great deal to be desired.

Both my hubby and I will be switching our Sirius radios back on now.

Oh..and if they had no listeners, who the hell raised all that money for the Weekend to End Breast Cancer that caused Lee to have to skydive? Hmmm?

Contrasting Opinion
December 4, 2009 / 13:50

I am enjoying the new format. Even Liz who listened to country 95.3 is enjoying it.

Mary
December 4, 2009 / 14:06

Went on vacation for a week and when I got back Country 95.3 was gone! This NEW 95.3 is driving me nuts. Want the Country back!!!

Stacey
December 4, 2009 / 18:21

I miss this station so much. I moved here from N. Ireland this year and this station was the only thing that kept me sane..and in touch with my roots. No warning whatsoever- the new format is horrid! where can i find another country station in Toronto??? Bring it Back please...!!!!!!!!

toni L
December 5, 2009 / 21:01

My husband and I phoned each other one day...asking...what the heck has happened where is the country music. I am so upset...I loved that radio station and going to stampede ranch etc etc....I mean I love rock also like the Q...but I really really loved my country station....so so sad.

leigh ball
December 6, 2009 / 11:19

Try listening to 100.3 FM, a small radio station on the reserve. when they play classic country they mean classic. A little bluegrass some native music, blues. A station for all people. Unfortunately if you don't live on Hamilton Mountain you can't get good reception. Maybe the big boys should listen to the little guy to know what radio is all about.
The down side I really had with 95.3 its was called a Hamilton radio station but catered to Toronto Missisauga, not a hot bed for country music.

Warren
December 7, 2009 / 23:10

I listen to Kix 106 online and they are in Waterloo. The Kix Chicks are great.

TC
December 8, 2009 / 11:14

What Corporate idiot made that decision? I am sure it had to do with money or politics, because the country station was amazing! They certainly did not think of the listeners when they made that decision!!! but we don't matter when it comes down to dollars and cents

TC
December 8, 2009 / 11:15

What Corporate idiot made that decision? I am sure it had to do with money or politics, because the country station was amazing! They certainly did not think of the listeners when they made that decision!!! but we don't matter when it comes down to dollars and cents

Debbie
December 9, 2009 / 18:40

I've tried the 95.9 station in Toronto... sorry the DJ's sound like they are sleeping. The voices are monotone.... 95.3 had great DJ's that loved what they were doing. The station was awesome.... I can't get Buffalo very well and I can't get the station from Kitchener. If anyone hears of signals getting clearer and stronger let us all know. We in Niagara love our New Country and miss 95.3.

Marg
December 10, 2009 / 09:36

So, another disadvantage to not having our local station is the weather reports. Now that we are into that time of year, it's really important that we hear local weather reports. I'm listening to the Kitchener-Waterloo station now, but they are in the snow belt and their weather is not always our weather in Hamilton.
Anyway, I heard it's not really about the ratings, it's about grabbing a market that came available earlier this year when another Hits Station went out. ( wonder why)

Susanne
December 10, 2009 / 14:37

I was very disappointed when 95.3 became an "oldies" station. The station was in my car, on my stereo at home, and on my clock radio alarm. How is it that a station that includes music from such singers as Taylor Swift (who appears to be on a cover of a magazine weekly) and Carrie Underwood is not making money? The popularity of these two artists alone is staggering.

Mike
December 11, 2009 / 09:55

Like everything else in Toronto, it turns to crap!
95.3 was great but now, sadly, it's gone. I'm sure this new format will fail soon enough and be laid to rest. How many rock and oldies station do we really need?

RIP Country 95.3!

Deb
December 11, 2009 / 19:33

So, I wonder if "the new 95.3" is reading our posts... can someone tell me now many posts does it take to realize they made a huge mistake and change their minds... or it would be about saving face now? Toronto Mike, can you tell us that?

Russell
December 17, 2009 / 00:06

95.3 was an awesome station playing.. if they stuck to the best of Paul Brandt, Adam Gregory, G. Strait, T. McGraw, Eric Church, B. Paisley, Aaron Lines, D. Bentley, K. Urban, K. Chesney, G. Canyon they would have been fine!! They played way too much no name upbeat semi rock and roll bullshit.

Lesley
December 17, 2009 / 18:27

I am still so upset 95.3 is gone. I now have nothing to listen to. Can we get it back????????????!!!!!!!!!

True Country Fan
December 21, 2009 / 01:21

First CISS 92.5 came on the scene taking away listeners from my country 59, put them out of business and them changed gendres; well here we go again! 95.3 blew into town and knocked my beloved 820 CHAM off the air! What is with these pop-country stations putting the real country stations out of business and then closing up shop? Are they in cahoots? Please somebody, bring us back the good ole stuff!

True Country Fan
December 21, 2009 / 01:28

First CISS 92.5 came on the scene taking away listeners from my country 59, put them out of business and them changed gendres; well here we go again! 95.3 blew into town and knocked my beloved 820 CHAM off the air! What is with these pop-country stations putting the real country stations out of business and then closing up shop? Are they in cahoots? Please somebody, bring us back the good ole stuff!

Goran
December 21, 2009 / 11:53

this sucks.

Goran
December 21, 2009 / 11:53

this sucks.

Anonymous
December 21, 2009 / 12:21

Without this country station I listen to the news on the radio while driving... it was the only one in the area!! bx92.7 london should extend their reach to toronto it's a great country station

doug
December 23, 2009 / 23:03

yes bring back country 95.3 we miss it . we lost cfgm 1310 and then 1320 and 640cfgm and then we lost country 59 to 92.5ciss fm and then we lost 820 cham went country 95.3 came on the air and now they are gone why cant toronto and hamiton have a country music station like before. ibeen a country music fan since i was 13 year old iam now66 .all the people at country 95.3 are dunb asses and dumb fuck we now listen to tillsonburg country107.3 if they cant bring back country95.3 perhap they can bring back big jim marshall and cfgm country music radio

doug
December 23, 2009 / 23:06

p[ease bring back contry 95.3

Lane
December 25, 2009 / 08:42

Something does not make sense. Canadas largest radio audience area and can't support one country station?
How are these ratings determined? 95.9 please boost your signal so I have a country music option.

dave
December 27, 2009 / 16:40

Well it's good to see things changing up the more things change the more they stay the same welcome abord VINYL!!

dave
December 27, 2009 / 16:41

Well it's good to see things changing up the more things change the more they stay the same welcome aboard VINYL!!

cheryl
December 28, 2009 / 08:57

dave your AN IDIOT VINYL IS FOR OLD LOSERS

Cindy
December 29, 2009 / 16:03

I guess it really says a lot that I'm just figuring this out now.

I really did love 95.3 at one point...but I live in Durham and get my Canadian Country and traffic from 95.9 and the rest of my radio presets are now all XM stations. It's really too bad. Vinyl sucks...who really listens to that crap unless they're playing Guitar Hero?

Jay
December 31, 2009 / 11:11

Its a sad day. All of Niagara will now be listening to US adverts and the national anthem 2 to 4 times a day on a Buffalo station. I thought the country out of Hamilton was smart, but I guess that is why I am not in radio.
There is a large listener base for country in Niagara, Hamilton, Cambridge that now is blanketed by a big radio void. Someone please bring back a country station to Hamilton so everyone can receive it!

Deborah - Hamilton
January 1, 2010 / 06:48

Well! Now I know what happened to my favourite radio station. And I'm NOT HAPPY!!!! The day I got into my car after work and heard some "oldies" music I thought someone had been playing with my presets. Now I don't have a country station to listen to. :( There are so many "oldies" or "variety" stations around. I cannot believe those ratings are anywhere near accurate either. Over the years I attended MANY country 95.3 events and they were always PACKED to the rafters!!! Hundreds of loyal, dedicated and enthusiastic listeners. I loved the DJ's!! I loved the music. I have not listened to 95.3 since it changed and I will not be listening to 95.3. The way it was just yanked with no warning and no consideration for the loyal fans was ignorant and very poor judgement. Hundreds of loyal listeners now gone elsewhere. And where did all of those fantastic radio personalities go? I miss them too. Shame on you for a very poor business decision and for handling it even worse. Good bye and bitter good riddens to 95.3 forever!

Jack
January 1, 2010 / 13:47

here in Welland i dont get the 95.9 station, and as soon as i drive toward hamilton i loose WYRK. its ok to listen to but they advertise too much. thats why i liked 95.3, "back to the music in 2 minutes" this area is in need of a country station, everyone i know listend to 95.3. hopefully someone will start up a New Country station down here. huge market. If they start a station down here all the dj's would be welcomed, im sure of it.

Jen
January 2, 2010 / 00:18

I understand and appreciate that this was a business decision for the Corus execs and that they feel there are more advertising $ to be picked up with this new format, however I find it hard to believe that country music fared so poorly on listenership surveys based on concerts, billboard successes and album sales/downloads. It surprises me even more that "Canada's Most Listened To
Country Station" (it always surprised me that this claim came from a SW ON station) with the online fan club,and tremendous turnout at events didn't register on somebody's profit radar. "Vinyl 95.3" isn't even in the running for stations I'd choose to listen to, but whatever... 95.3's off my presets, and the other country stations (and their commercials) are in. Their loss - I'm not going to lose sleep over it.

pat -brantford
January 2, 2010 / 18:39

ah, the province of toronto...let them have their oldies, give the rest of us our country channel and hosts back, Lea, Paul, Sam, the rest, where are they now?

6sm9
January 3, 2010 / 14:58

Mike - I don't think you can say that there is no market for country music in southern ontario, given the large portions of southern ontario that are still rural or semi-rural, and the success of the country weekend at sarnia's bayfest, and other long standing southern ontarian country stations such as BX93 in London. I think you would be better off saying that there is a minimal market in Toronto.

Mar
January 6, 2010 / 14:27

Wondering when the execs at the new station will realize the error of their ways and change back to what the people obviously want.

Unbelieveable MISTAKE and disservice to the listeners

Bren
January 6, 2010 / 19:49

I loved 95.3 and the country format. I will miss it, I guess I have to listen to 95.9 now.

Dyth
January 7, 2010 / 09:18

Did someone not let Suzanne know Country music listeners are very loyal people. They love their music, their ideals and morals and thier country. It seems Suzanne pulled a Natalie Maines. Sad really.

JD
January 7, 2010 / 14:22

I was shocked that they made the switch. I would have to guess that 80 or 85 percent of the people I know listen to country. How they got 1.1 I'll never know. Now would be a good chance for some investors to start a country format and clean up.

Jeff
January 8, 2010 / 06:53

This is crap they must have found a way to cheat the ratings i know far too many people in guelph kitchener and cambridge that all listened to this station and truly believe this is the biggest load of horse puckey that ever hit the air waves i will never listen to this station again unless they change back to country.

Anonymous
January 9, 2010 / 13:41

I don't know about anyone else but I personally miss this Great Canadian .something to be proud of Country Radio Station here. Right Here! an now its gone. Whats gonna happen to Sam . this was gonna be the radio station I was gonna present my Original made with Love Song I wrote . an recorded here an in Nashville most Recently . DAng!! I use'to listen to it like it was a send off radio station an the song they had playing was always Just right .as I was crossing the Peace Bridge . too Sad . . JohnDiBattista.com

Sam
January 10, 2010 / 12:20

I love the NEW format , i have it playing in my store , &customers asking me what station was that, i hope they will add a little bit of classic rock to there selection .

Bilal
January 10, 2010 / 16:34

There is no market for country music anymore, atleast not in Canada. However, all the big country singers is Shania Twain and others have kinda branched out to other markets that appeal to a much younger age group, and that Conway Tweety era is a thing of the past.

james
January 11, 2010 / 12:51

Bring back Energy that was the best radio station. I was very disapointed when they went.

angie
January 11, 2010 / 15:52

sick of soooo many rock stations,please bring back 95.3 country music....signal for only other rock station 95.9 too weak,keeps fading in car,cant get signal in house at all....please,please,bring back 95.3 country....

Anonymous
January 13, 2010 / 21:03

Country rules ....bring back 95.3

Jer
January 15, 2010 / 13:53

Should have seen this coming...right around when the"drive home with the real Bob Steel" packed up and went out west. This was a great Country Station should have stuck around for another year, I knew many people making the switch to Country...better than all the rock stations we have today! What they are playing now is total crap for a lack of better words.

Sheryl
January 19, 2010 / 10:29

I have waited out this change over hoping that I would grow to like the new format even though I was losing my very favorite country tunes. I hate the format, the repetitiveness drives me crazy. There are now how many of the same type of stations and what happens in the new year we have another one change over. I can't find any station that I like anywhere. The Durham station doesn't come in well and never has that is why I was so thrilled about CING 95.3 and was a devoted listener.
God I wish the execs would listen to us and change it back!!!!

clint
January 21, 2010 / 22:30

I don't know who they were asking about listeners, but it was not me or my friends !

clint
January 21, 2010 / 22:31

I don't know who they were asking about listeners, but it was not me or my friends !

Jack Tripper
January 21, 2010 / 23:05

I welcome the new format and am proud to welcome a new oldies radio station to the Toronto air waves. We needed a break from the current Top 40 stations plauging our FM dials. With Country 95.3 finally off the air we can all enjoy some decent albiet decades old music.

Tim
January 24, 2010 / 09:56

What were you thinking????

Ben
January 28, 2010 / 17:22

anything country please come back to the wild side the only country station that i get is gone i work as a custom home framer and the guys and i would line dance to a song once we had enough of the floor down to do so yours faith fully as a country listener ps your not the only easier rock station out there so many others if someone doesn't like the song that you are playing they just change the station but as a country station people wouldn't change so why did you :(

Butters
January 30, 2010 / 21:18

Well I liked the music but, I couldn't stand the DJ's. Yap yap yap about their personal lives so much it was like a live boring blog. So annoying the wife and I stopped listening. A staff change would have been more appropriate. Really no surprise here.

Nico
February 10, 2010 / 17:26

f*** that! country is my favorite kind of music and me and a bunch of young teenagers were in love with that station! check facebook and you find many groups and pages mourning the loss of that great station! clearly you are not up to date with what is popular because country is the best thing that has happened to toronto's music world!

LEN
February 10, 2010 / 20:38

how,s it going y95.3 i hope you are doing bad .we country listeners are still not happy that you took our country station away.we want it back.we need to all get together and bombard this station with as many letters that we can so that they get the message that we want our country station back.cmon people lets get together don.t let these people run our lives let,s give them what for

Debbie
February 11, 2010 / 08:46

My husband and I, together with a large number of our friends, only listened to Country Music. I was extremely disappointed when we turned the radio on to find out that 95.3 was no longer there. NO WARNING, NO NOTHING. It saddens me that they have put just more garbage music on yet another channel to replace the ONLY country station we relied upon.

Lynda
February 12, 2010 / 11:49

I'm still trying to find a decent new country station in the Hamilton - Burlington area. I can get the two nearest country stations but only on the Hamilton Mountain. I will NEVER listen to a Chorus station again. First they take 820 Cham out of the running and then just leave the listeners hanging.

Brenda
February 12, 2010 / 15:35

If you are able, Kitchener/Waterloo has a great country station - KIX 106.7 on your FM dial. The music is just as good as 95.3 and the announcers are great too.

Mose Berri
February 13, 2010 / 10:17

I have seen few pizzas preparation were they fill it with cheese and every time I attempt that the pizzas, the covering breaks up. Let me check how it works using your recipe.

Rosemary
February 13, 2010 / 13:46

I needed more 80's style music I'd have asked for it! WHY DO stations just change in the dead of night. Actually though, I remember finding 95.3 a few days after it's launch which I had not been aware of... interesting ...but they can still bring it back.

Josh
February 24, 2010 / 14:42

Im a trucker, and i like country. What the hall
happend to country 95.3 that was the best country raido in southern ontario. I lission to it when a go to the furgus truck show now what would I do WTF

BETH
February 26, 2010 / 11:12

What the hell happened to my favourite country station?! I can't believe those stats "least listened to" with a 1.1 rating. What am I left with now?! Horrible decision to switch to crappy oldies. There is never anything good on. SWITCH BACK!!!!

kevin butler
March 5, 2010 / 10:11

Great station I listen all night at work driving truck,classic rock reals

Melroy
March 11, 2010 / 03:52

I am dead shock to know my favourite country 95.3 has been out of air. I used to listen quite often in Muscat, Sultanate of Oman. I have visited toronto 3 times and used to always listen to this gr8 station. Its sad to say that southern ontario has no market...I NEED YOU BACK.

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