The Sunday morning lineup has changed in a big way at WHUR-FM (96.3) with the addition of longtime radio personality Winston Chaney, who joined the station following the death of iconic gospel music broadcaster Patrick Ellis.
In a statement, WHUR management said Sunday mornings are now being turned over to Chaney and fellow radio vet Jacquie Gales Webb beginning Sunday, Sept. 20.
Chaney, who for decades hosted a morning show on WYCB (1340), now hosts WHUR’s “Wake Up” program from 5 a.m. to 8 a.m., followed by Webb, who will move to 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
“These changes round out the WHUR Gospel Experience, which also includes Tracy Morgan heard Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 6 a.m.,” said WHUR General Manager Sean Plater. “We look forward to building on the foundation laid by our beloved Patrick Ellis.”
WHUR also welcomed into the Sunday mix Stellar Award-winning gospel artist Anthony Brown, who hosts “Blessings on Blessings Radio” from 12:15 p.m. to 2 p.m.
The Howard University Rankin Chapel broadcast will continue on Sundays from 11 a.m. to noon followed by “The Journey,” hosted by Howard President Wayne A.I. Frederick.
“In thinking of how we could keep the Patrick Ellis mission going and honor his incredible legacy, we assembled a team of all-stars able to inspire, entertain and serve every DMV listener,” said WHUR Program Director Al Payne. “I can’t wait to hear this stellar combination.”
Ellis, who reigned on Sundays from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. for 40 years, died in July following complications from the coronavirus.
“Patrick Ellis’ shoes will never be filled but I am just grateful that he left shoes to be followed,” said Geraldine Capehardt, a listener who tuned in as Chaney took the reins Sunday morning.
In his maiden voyage Sunday, Chaney came on the air at 5 a.m. by playing Vanessa Bell Armstrong’s “The Denied Strong.”
Chaney, like many AM radio announcers, is known for plenty of talk between selections, but on Sunday he was more restrained as he played a mix of gospel and inspirational music.
“You are waking up with Winston Chaney,” he said just before playing the Chicago Mass Choir’s “My Soul Says Yes.”