On Thursday, Rochester radio legend Brother Wease, whose real name is Alan Levin, stunned listeners by announcing that his final show on WAIO-FM (95.1), an iHeartMedia station branded as Radio 95.1.
The abrupt departure of the iconic host of The Wease Show sparked an outpouring of tributes and well-wishes across social media, with fans, colleagues, and local figures celebrating his storied career and impact on the Rochester community. As one of the most influential voices in Rochester broadcasting, Wease leaves behind a legacy marked by authenticity, humor, and mentorship, having launched the careers of several notable radio personalities.
Brother Wease’s journey in radio began in 1983, not behind the microphone but as an advertising salesman at Rochester’s classic rock station WCMF-FM (96.5). A Vietnam War combat veteran, Wease transitioned to on-air work in 1984, taking over a late-night slot. By 1985, he was hosting The Brother Wease Morning Circus, a morning show that became a Rochester institution, consistently ranking among the market’s highest-rated programs.
Known for his raw, relatable style, Wease shared personal milestones with his audience, including his battle with cancer, fostering a deep connection with listeners.
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| WCMF 2000 |
His show was a launchpad for talent, with personalities like Greg “Opie” Hughes (of Opie and Anthony fame), BJ Shea, and Stephanie Miller (known locally as “Sister Sleaze”) getting their start under his wing. These figures went on to achieve national success, a testament to Wease’s knack for spotting and nurturing talent.
In late 2007, after Entercom acquired WCMF, contract negotiations with Wease fell apart. He left the station in early 2008, and a non-compete clause sidelined him until November of that year, when he returned to the airwaves as the morning host on Radio 95.1. In 2023, seeking a less demanding schedule, Wease successfully requested to shift The Wease Show from its 6–9 a.m. slot to 9 a.m.–noon, allowing him to continue engaging his loyal audience while accommodating his health and lifestyle needs.
Wease’s contributions to broadcasting and the Rochester community have been widely recognized. In 2021, he became the first Rochester radio personality inducted into the Museum of Broadcast Communications Radio Hall of Fame, a prestigious honor reflecting his national influence. He was also enshrined in the New York State Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame in 2009 and the Rochester Music Hall of Fame in 2023, cementing his status as a local icon whose impact transcended radio into the broader cultural fabric of the region.
Following Wease’s announcement, social media platforms like X and Facebook lit up with heartfelt messages. Fans shared memories of waking up to his irreverent humor, while local musicians and community leaders praised his support for Rochester’s music scene. One X user wrote, “Brother Wease was the voice of Rochester mornings for decades. His stories, his laugh, his heart—irreplaceable.”
Another posted, “From Sister Sleaze to Opie, Wease gave so many their start. Rochester won’t be the same without him on the air.”Colleagues also chimed in, with a former producer noting on X, “Wease wasn’t just a host; he was a mentor who made you feel like family.”
The Rochester Democrat and Chronicle reports local businesses, many of which advertised on his show, expressed gratitude for his role in promoting Rochester’s economy. A downtown bar owner shared, “Wease’s shoutouts brought people through our doors. He loved this city, and we love him back.”
Wease’s exit marks the end of an era for Rochester radio. His ability to blend humor, vulnerability, and community engagement set a standard for local broadcasting. The Morning Circus and later The Wease Show were more than radio programs—they were platforms for storytelling, local music, and camaraderie.
His openness about personal struggles, including his cancer diagnosis, resonated with listeners, making him a trusted voice in their daily lives.
Wease’s departure underscores the pressures faced by legacy broadcasters in an era dominated by corporate media and digital platforms. While Radio 95.1 has not yet announced a replacement, the station faces the daunting task of filling the void left by a figure who defined Rochester mornings for nearly four decades.
What’s Next for Brother Wease? At 78, Wease has not publicly detailed his plans post-radio, though fans speculate he may explore podcasting or community projects, given his deep ties to Rochester. His health, a recurring topic on air, may also play a role in his decision to step back.