The Winnipeg station that launched the “Bob FM” brand of Variety Hits nearly two decades ago has changed its name as part of a national rebranding.
Bell Media has switched its Variety Hits outlets to “Bounce Radio,” with a 1980s to 2000s playlist positioned as “the music you just can’t quit.” Bell says a total of 25 outlets switched to “Bounce” on Tuesday, and RadioInsight notes the changes included a few format switches elsewhere in Canada.
In Manitoba, “Bounce” is now on the air on former “Bob” stations CFWM-FM/99.9 (Winnipeg) and CKX-FM/96.1 (Brandon). CFWM promoted the change as a retirement by “Bob.”
Happy Retirement BOB!! pic.twitter.com/t2aNJdGiiz
— Winnipeg’s Bounce 99.9 (@999BOBFM) May 18, 2021
After its 2002 launch in Winnipeg, the “Bob” brand for Adult Hits spread to other markets. Of course, readers of this site will recall that “Bob” had been on the air in the Twin Cities with a Country format for nine years before the Winnipeg station launched.