July 2026, KCAL-FM lays off all on-air staff in switch to all-music radio station

KCAL-FM announced a sudden programming shift to an automated “All Music, All the Time” classic rock format and released its entire on-air talent roster, including long-tenured hosts and program directors. The move eliminates local live shows in favor of an automated music feed, with dozens of full-time and part-time on-air staff impacted. Station leadership framed the change as a strategic programming reset to broaden audience appeal and streamline costs, while former employees and community members highlighted the loss of local voices and the broader trend of consolidation and cost-cutting across regional radio operations.