Former 89X radio host Mark McKenzie said he was abruptly laid off while on the air, but the station’s dramatic switch from alternative rock to country music after 30 years hurt him just as much as losing his job.

WINDSOR, Ontario – One day after announcing it would be unveiling a completely new format, the former 89X new rock alternative radio station announced it is now, “Pure Country 89.”“This is 88.7 CIMX Windsor, or, as it’s about to be known, ‘Pure Country 89,’” the station announced at 12:01 p.m. Thursday. “Pure Country is here, Windsor,” the station announced. The first song of the “Pure Country 89″ era was “Cruise” by Florida-Georgia Line. 89X changes after 30 yearsThe radio station announced the major format change on Wednesday, without giving any details. Soon there will be a very new and VERY different sound on 88.7FM and to be honest if you’re a New Rock fan you’re probably not going to like it.

WINDSOR, Ontario – After 30 years on the airwaves, the 89X new rock alternative radio station announced it will make a major format change this week. UPDATE: Former 89X rock alternative radio station officially announces new formatThere will be a “very new and very different sound” on FM channel 88.7 out of Windsor, Ontario, starting Thursday (Nov. 19). Here’s the full announcement:"From the Cutting Edge to New Rock 89X, it’s been one hell of a ride over the past thirty years. 89X was a unique station and we have some great memories. Soon there will be a very new and VERY different sound on 88.7FM and to be honest if you’re a New Rock fan you’re probably not going to like it.