Known throughout Hampton Roads as radio personality Shaggy 757, Brandon Stokes has built a public career around music, live events and community service.
Radio career milestones
More than 25 years behind the microphone.
From breaking major records to being called on by national music media, these moments document Shaggy’s role in the culture—not only on the air, but behind the music.
July 6, 2006 · WNVZ/Z104
World premiere of Justin Timberlake’s “SexyBack”
As WNVZ/Z104 Music Director, Shaggy helped deliver the 7 a.m. world premiere of Justin Timberlake’s “SexyBack” after Virginia native Timbaland personally supplied the record. The debut generated immediate listener response—and a cease-and-desist from Jive Records before the single’s official midnight release.
“Shaggy’s my hero.” — Z104 Program Director Michael Bryan, quoted in the industry report
Rolling Stone turned to Shaggy for a radio and music-industry perspective in its coverage of Eminem. The framed issue and article preserve a national-media moment from his years shaping the sound of Hampton Roads radio.
March 21, 2008 · The Virginian-Pilot
“You Only Think You Know the Man Called Shaggy”
The Virginian-Pilot profiled the person behind the radio name—documenting Brandon Stokes’ career, personality and connection to Hampton Roads in a full newspaper feature.
Awards & official honors
Recognition belongs in the record.
These honors reflect what the community, volunteers and partners built together—not just one person’s résumé.
2014
NAB Marconi nominee
Medium Market Personality of the Year
2017
Key to the City
Presented by the mayor of Virginia Beach
2017
KAM Cares Community MVP
For contributions to youth initiatives across Hampton Roads
2017
Community MVP crystal
Presented by the Kam Chancellor Foundation
2025
Commonwealth recognition
Governor Glenn Youngkin recognizes 20 years of Stuff the Bus
2024
Community Partner
Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office Beat da Odds initiative
2015
Ten years of Toys for Tots
Presented to Shaggy and the Z104 crew
2016
Be a Shield Award
The Salvation Army
2023
Humanitarian Award
Virginia Beach Jaycees Bartender’s Charity Auction
2024
Community Hero
Coastal Virginia Chamber of Commerce
From the archive
The moments behind the microphone.
Stokes Boulevard
A personalized street sign marking a career rooted in Hampton Roads
