Radio host Brian Oake announces departure from Cities 97

Well-known Twin Cities radio host Brian Oake is leaving Cities 97. He announced his departure from the radio station Friday morning on his daily show with Keri Noble.

"I started fourteen and a half years ago," Oake said on the radio. "Today is my final day."

He went on to tell listeners that he has an amazing opportunity in the new year that he couldn't turn down. Oake said he struggled with the decision but decided to make the leap. He did not elaborate on the opportunity.

While it's not clear what Oake's new gig will be, it's common knowledge that he would be a prime candidate for Cities 97 competitor 89.3 the Current's open job for morning show co-host. The Minnesota Public Radio rock station's morning job was vacated by Steve Seel in March, and musician Sean McPherson has been regularly filling in since then.

"I love Keri Noble," he said about his co-host as he choked back tears. " I fell in love with radio again. Thank you."

Noble told listeners that there will never be another combination like Oake and Keri but that Cities 97 will be searching for a replacement.

"It's been so incredible. You have taught me everything I know about radio," Noble said. "It's not going to be the same."

Before making the announcement on his show, Oake tweeted, " No easy way to say this, but today is my last day at @cities97radio. Really. Not a bit or a stunt. Tune in at 8. Peace."

Star Tribune staff writer Chris Riemenschneider contributed to this report.

Vineeta Sawkar • Twitter: @vsawkar