WJR's Paul W. Smith Signs a Long-Term Contract

 WJR radio personality Paul W. Smith, a popular local figure who is not known for his hardball interviews, is sticking around.

Amy Haimerl of Crain's Detroit 's reports that Smith, 59, has penned a seven-year contract with Atlanta-based Cumulus Media to host the morning show.

“I’m thrilled, especially considering the length,”  Smith tells Crain's.  “My belief, from what I’ve heard from a number of people in our business, is that this is unheard of.”

Smith had some big shoes to fill when he came to WJR in 1996. He replaced a local legend, J.P. McCarthy. -- Allan Lengel