The Powerhouse concerts are an institution in hip-hop, put on by a radio station that’s been a mainstay of urban contemporary music for decades. Each autumn, fans know that they’re in for an onstage onslaught of major players giving their all — and getting a ton of love back from the crowd.
But last night, a different kind of tragedy occurred at the event’s home in New York City. The man behind one of the shows, DJ Carl Blaze, a popular personality at WPWR-FM (Power 105.1) in Manhattan’s Harlem neighborhood, was shot multiple times in what police say may have been a robbery. He is currently in stable condition in hospital.
“He’s a guy who’s always looking out for everybody, and as far as his career has gotten him, he hasn’t forgotten where he came from,” Dominguez told Power 105.1 on air Thursday morning. “And he’s just one of those dudes that’s always looking out for the younger generation.”
This is not the first time the station has made headlines for a shooting at the venue. In 2001, a gunman opened fire in the lobby of the building, killing three and wounding several others. Those victims were employees of the radio station. The attacker was arrested and convicted of murder in 2003.
In the wake of this latest incident, the station has been flooded with calls from listeners expressing their sadness and offering support. A station spokesperson said they were working to gather more details about the incident.
While Power 105.1 has been a big draw for performers, it’s also been a hub for the city’s hip-hop scene and is often considered to be more edgy than Hot 97 or XM Shade 45. The station also plays a lot of classic hip-hop and R&B, as well as more alternative acts.
The breakfast club has been a staple of NYC morning radio for years now and is syndicated in 90 markets across the country. The show, hosted by DJ Envy and Charlamagne Tha God, features a wide range of celebrities and political figures each weekday.
In a recent ratings battle, the station has lost ground to Hot 97, but it’s still able to attract some big names and keep its listeners engaged with fresh interviews and music.
With the launch of a new format this spring, the show will be rebranded as Power 105’s The Morning Crew. It will feature a new co-host and a whole host of musical guests.
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