Kiss-FM’s Shaila Scott Responds to Station’s Closing

Popular radio personality is optimistic about station's merger with WBLS

Yesterday, tri-state audiences were shocked to learn the news that New York City radio station, 98.7 Kiss-FM (WRKS), one of the city’s most popular stations for classic and contemporary R&B, would come to an end after a 30-year run on the air. The station, owned by Emmis Communications has been acquired by a new media company and will merge with WBLS starting this weekend.

Kiss-FM radio personality Shaila Scott, who has lent her voice to the station for nearly 17 years, will join Lenny Green and former Kiss host Jeff Foxx at their new home, WBLS (107.5 FM). Scott, a beloved member of the Kiss family is best known for the womanly tone she brought to the station. Scott has hosted “Kissing After Dark,” the “Wake Up Club" morning show,” and "The Midday Cafe."

In 2007, Scott founded Sisterly Kiss Entertainment, an organization designed to empower, educate, entertain and benefit women in need through philanthropy work aimed toward breast cancer, domestic violence and health and  wellness.

Scott spoke with Loop 21 to about the ending of the Kiss era and what is in store for her and her new chapter at WBLS.

Loop 21: Many listeners are still in shock about the recent news that Kiss-FM will no longer be airing. When did you first learn about the news and what went through your mind?

Scott: I first learned of the changes April 25, to go in effect on April 26. I was deeply saddened to face the reality that 98.7 Kiss-FM, which has been the voice of the tri-state black community for 30 years, will be silenced. A station that entertained me as a teenager growing up in New York and being given the opportunity to strengthen the voice of this iconic station with mine would be no more -- that was a devastating blow.

[ALSO READ: Radio Personality Harassed By Police]

Loop 21: You will be one of two Kiss personalities to go over to WBLS. What are your thoughts on that, and will you have as much a prominent role as you did on Kiss?

Scott: You know they say life comes full circle and that is what I am experiencing at this time. WBLS gave me my start in New York City radio, where I met my mentor, radio giant Vaughn Harper, who helped me sharpen my skills in this industry. I was given great tools of the trade by legend Frankie Crocker when he returned to WBLS in the early '90s. I left in 1994 so it’s like I'm going home. I have always been grateful to WBLS for that opportunity so I am honored that I get to go back and contribute what I’ve learned over the last 17 years and use that to strengthen the voice that will super serve our community.

Loop 21: What was it about Kiss-FM that has resonated with so many listeners over the past 30 years?