Monday, April 22, 2019

Detailed Agenda for Talkers 2019: Telling the Story Posted.  Although speakers and sessions are still being added, the basic detailed agenda for the forthcoming 22^nd annual installment of the longest-running, most important annual gathering of the talk media industry is now posted and can be accessed here.  According to TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey, “The sheer quality of this convention’s lineup of speakers is a testimony to the present-day vibrancy of talk radio and the associated talk media industry. This is the place to be for anyone who is serious about their career and business in the field of talk shows.”  The event will take place on Friday, June 7 in New York City at the ultra-modern Helen Mills Event Space and Theater located in the colorful Chelsea district of Manhattan.  The conference will feature more than 55 top speakers from all aspects of the spoken-word media industry – including influential talent, programmers, managers and owners – with a focus on talk radio and its role in the rapidly accelerating digital age.  This will include programming, sales, marketing, and technology as well as the full spectrum of concerns, challenges and opportunities facing modern day talk broadcasters and broadcasting organizations.  It will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, fireside chats, one-on-one conversations and exhibits of the latest services and equipment available to broadcasting professionals. Like its predecessors, Talkers 2019: Telling the Story will also provide its attendees with unparalleled networking opportunities and social mixers including breakfast, lunch, and a closing cocktail reception — all in a single, fast-paced day!  As is customary with TALKERS conventions, Talkers 2019: Telling the Story is only open to members of the professional media industry and communications students. Because seating is limited and the event has been an early sellout every year since the 1990s, in order to maintain this policy, non-refundable registrations can only be purchased via telephone with a credit card. A full registration, including all functions, meals, and refreshments, costs $329. To register or obtain sponsorship information, call Barbara Kurland at 413-565-5413. To take advantage of the hotel discount available to TALKERS convention attendees, contact the Hilton Fashion District Hotel located directly across the street from the venue at 152 W. 26th St, New York, NY 10001 by clicking here.

Monday Memo: Promos 101.  With the important Spring ratings survey underway, station imaging needs to be on-message.  In this week’s column, consultant Holland Cooke outlines strategy and tactics.  Your station promos should add Time Spent Listening and enhance recall.  Learn more about how to accomplish that here.

Kristin Roderick Upped to VP at Townsquare Media. Sales pro Kristin Roderick is promoted from her director of regional partnerships position with Townsquare Media to vice president of partnership sales for New Jersey.  She states, “No media company has a stronger platform in New Jersey than Townsquare to help our clients achieve their marketing objectives.  I’m looking forward to leveraging Townsquare’s dynamic and diversified marketing platform to help some of the biggest and best agencies and businesses in the area accomplish their goals and increase their business.”  Roderick joined Townsquare in November of 2017.  She has held general sales manager and director of agency sales positions at iHeartMedia New York and a senior account executive position at Emmis Communications New York.

KMOX, St. Louis Personality Harry Hamm Charged with Child Pornography Possession and Sodomy.  St. Louis television station KMOV-TV is reporting that KMOX-AM, St. Louis entertainment reporter and host Harry Hamm has been charged with possession of child pornography, incest and second-degree statutory sodomy after an underage relative reported alleged sexual abuse to police.  St. Ann, Missouri police say that Hamm confessed to the allegations during an interview.  Entercom issued the following statement regarding Hamm. “We have just learned of the troubling allegations against Harry Hamm.  We take these matters very seriously and have placed him on immediate leave as we investigate.  We do not have any further comment at this moment.”

Mueller Report Released, Southern Border Crisis, Sri Lanka Church Bombings, 2020 Presidential Politics, NBA Playoffs, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend.  The aftermath of the release of the redacted version of the Mueller Report; the politics surrounding the migrant crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border; the deadly Easter Sunday bombings at Christian churches in Sri Lanka; the Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020; the NBA playoffs; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

TALKERS News Notes. The New York Post reports WFAN sports talk personality Mike Francesa tweeted over the weekend that he’s making his final comment about the dispute between his station and crosstown rival WEPN “ESPN New York” over the afternoon drive ratings.  As you may recall, ESPN is touting PM driver Michael Kay’s ratings for the Winter survey (Jan., Feb., March), saying he beat Francesa in Men 25-54.  However, when adding WFAN’s streaming numbers, Francesa beats Kay.  The issue here is whether WFAN’s stream – which airs different ads than the over-the-air signal – should count.  Francesa obviously believes it should.  He tweeted: “This is the last time I will ever make a statement about the calculation of the radio ratings.  There is only one possible way to read them. Anyone, and that means anyone, who says differently is either a fool or a liar. Case closed.”…..WABC, New York morning personality Sid Rosenberg celebrated his 52^nd birthday on air last week and was greeted with Happy Birthday wishes from a number of his high-profile friends, including: TV host and prosecutor Bob Bianchi, Chris Matthews, Goumba Johnny, Lawrence Taylor, Michael Kay, and Jim Kerr.  During the segment with Taylor, the two discussed rehab, aging, and enjoying the little things in life.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Montgomery CHR outlet WHHY-FM “Y102” names Gordie Daniels co-host of the morning show with incumbent morning personality Tommy Fields.  Daniels previously worked on air at WJHM, Orlando and WLLD, Tampa.  WHHY program director Jay Rio says, “It will be exciting to hear a new fresh and real sound from Gordie Daniels for the ‘Y102’ morning show.  His experience, work ethic, and extensive background in mornings, working with ‘Orlando & The Freak Show’ in Tampa and ‘The Wake Up Posse’ morning show in Orlando as co-host and morning show producer makes Gordie the best talent to begin our day for ‘Y102.’”…..iHeartMedia’s Philadelphia alternative rocker WRFF “Radio 104.5” announces its annual series of Summer Block Parties.  The kick-off event takes place on June 23 at Xfinity Live! featuring live performances by Catfish and the Bottlemen, Flora Cash, Oliver Tree, and Matt Maeson. Station PD and air personality John Allers says, “We’re very excited to offer our listeners another summer of free concerts with their favorite bands.  We’re also thrilled to continue our partnership with Xfinity Live! as we move this year’s series of events to a new location.”…..Sun Broadcast Group announces Natalia Ospina joins the company as an ad sales assistant.  Ospina was previously with Entravision Media Group serving as national TV sales account coordinator.  Ospina will be based out of New York City supporting the SBG lineup that includes “The Fitz Show,” “Country Fried Mix with DJ Sinister,” Michael Baisden, Jim Brickman, Alfonso Ribeiro, Ana-Maria Canseco and many others.

March 2019 PPM Data – Part Four. March 2019 ratings information has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen Audio’s March 2019 survey period covered February 28 – March 27. See all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@Talkers.com) provides his “Takeaways” from all 12 of these PPM-markets below.

Austin

Spoken-Word Formats – A loss of one-tenth (3.8 – 3.7, 6+) doesn’t prevent Emmis news/talk KLBJ-AM “News Radio 590 AM” from progressing from #12 to #10.

Four straight decreases by Genuine Austin Radio sports talk KTXX accounted for a net loss of nine-tenths (2.5 – 2.4 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.6, 6+), but “The Horn” ends the slide with a one-tenth March gain to 1.7 (#20 to #17, 6+). In a somewhat similar situation, iHeartMedia’s KVET-AM “1300 AM The Zone” was down three-tenths via four consecutive down or flat trends (.7 – .7 – .6 – .5 – .4, 6+) but picks up two-tenths to .6 (flat at #24, 6+).

The three most recent shifts by University of Texas at Austin-owned news/talk KUT are +1.6 (January); -.6 (February); and +.7 in March (8.8 – 9.5, #1 for the third time in a row, 6+). Prior to January’s increase, KUT forfeited an overall eight-tenths in three straight declines (8.6 – 8.5 – 8.2 – 7.8, 6+).

Austin Music Formats – On the strength of a +1.2 (5.5 – 6.7, 6+), Emmis regional Mexican KLZT “107.1 La Z” advances from fourth to third. It’s the first time KLZT reaches the six-share level (6.7, 6+) since October 2016 (6.1). It is a different story though for Crista Media contemporary Christian KFMK. Immediately after dialing up a +1.2 (3.4 – 4.6, 6+), “Spirit 105.9” forfeits the entire increase (4.6 – 3.4, -1.2, 6+) and drops out of the top ten (#8 to #12). February’s 4.6 marked the first time KFMK reached the four-share level (6+) since May 2017 (4.0). In early-March, Emmis flipped KGSR “Austin City Limits Radio” to adult contemporary “Star 93.3.” In its first sweep in the new format, “Star” is off nine-tenths (2.0 – 1.1, #17 to #20, 6+). The station it now chases – Entercom adult contemporary KKMJ – loses one-half share (5.5 – 5.0, 6+), dropping from fourth to seventh. The eight most recent shifts for “Majic 95.5 Better Music For A Better Workday” are -1.2 (September 2018); +1.2 (October); -.5 (November); +1.2 (December); +2.1 (“Holiday” 2018); -4.9 (January 2019); +.9 (February); and -.5 (March). “Holiday” 2018’s 9.5 represents its strongest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2017 (12.4). In three straight sweeps without a loss, iHeartMedia CHR KHFI “96.7 Kiss FM Austin’s #1 Hit Music Station” is an overall +1.8 (3.6 – 4.3 – 5.4 – 5.4, sixth to fifth, 6+). “Kiss” was off a combined nine-tenths in December/“Holiday” 2018 (4.5 – 3.9 – 3.6, 6+). After posting a January +1.2 (5.0 – 6.2, 6+), co-owned KVET-FM “98.1 The Austin, Texas Original” is -1.1 in February/March (6.2 – 5.9 – 5.1, third to sixth, 6+). When KVET-FM gained one-half share in “Holiday” 2018, it ended three straight decreases that accounted for a collective loss of eight-tenths (5.3 – 5.1 – 4.6 – 4.5, 6+). Eliminating February’s gain of four-tenths with a decrease nearly twice that size (2.7 – 2.0, -.7, 6+), Genuine Austin Radio-owned KOKE-FM “Austin’s Country Alternative” slides from #13 to #16. A January drop of one-tenth interrupted three straight increases that nearly doubled (+1.1) its 6+-stat (1.3 – 1.5 – 1.8 – 2.4, 6+). The market’s country outlet in positive territory this sweep is KVET-FM sibling KASE, which adds two-tenths after February’s -.6 (4.3 – 4.5, 6+) and jumps from tenth to eighth. “Austin’s #1 For New Country” spiraled by -1.9 in “Holiday” 2018 and improved by +1.2 in January.

Raleigh

Spoken-Word Formats – In three straight sweeps without a loss (4.6 – 6.1 – 6.5 – 6.5, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WTKK “106.1 Stay Connected” is an overall +1.9 and repeats in fifth-place. Curtis Media Group news/talk WPTF “News Radio 680” regains the three-tenths it lost in February (1.6 – 1.3 – 1.6, 6+) and progresses from #19 to #18.

A gain of seven-tenths by Capitol Broadcasting sports talk WCMC (1.7 – 2.4, 6+) takes “99.9 The Fan” from #17 to #14.

Despite dropping two-tenths (7.5 – 7.3, 6+), WUNC “91.5 North Carolina Public Radio” inches up from fourth to third. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill news/talk outlet has moved from third to first (June 2018, +9); first to third (July, -1.1); third to first (August, +1.2); first to second (September, -.4); second to third (November, -.9); fourth to second (January 2019, +1.0); second to fourth (February, -.6); and now fourth to third.

Raleigh Music Formats – Without a loss the third time in a row for a net gain of eight-tenths (2.9 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.7, #12 to #11, 6+) Curtis Media Group CHR WPLW “Pulse FM All The Hits” has its best 6+-showing (3.7) since June 2018’s 3.8. At the same time, iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WDCG “G-105 Raleigh’s #1 Hit Music Station,” which had been +1.5 in January/February (4.5 – 5.6 – 6.0, 6+), surrenders six-tenths to 5.4 (6+) yet advances from eighth to a seventh-place tie. Notwithstanding that it is trending 11.0 – 9.9 – 9.5 (6+), Radio One urban AC WFXC “Foxy – Today’s R&B and Classic Soul” is #1 for the eighth straight time. Entering the March sweep, its five previous fluctuations were +.9 (November 2018); -1.5 (December); +1.1 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.1 (January 2019); and -1.1 in February. January’s 11.0 is WFXC’s highest 6+-stat in the PPM-era. Ups/downs continue for Capitol Broadcasting adult contemporary WRAL “Mix 101.5,” which was -2.6 (January); +1.6 (February); and is -.9 in March (8.6 – 7.7, 6+) but continues in the runner-up slot. In three consecutive up or flat trends (5.3 – 7.1 – 7.1 – 9.6, 6+), “Mix” was a cumulative +4.3; “Holiday” 2018’s 9.6 is its strongest 6+-showing since “Holiday” 2017’s 10.4. A February gain of six-tenths by iHeartMedia’s WRDU “Classic Rock 100.7” is cleared away by a March dip of eight-tenths (6.2 – 5.4, sixth to seventh, 6+). February’s 6.2 is its best 6+-showing since August 2018 (6.2, as well). Radio Training Network contemporary Christian WRTP “HIS Radio” is off six-tenths (2.5 – 1.9, #13 to #16, 6+) and has its lowest 6+-stat (1.9) since September 2018’s  1.7. Locked on 7.6 (6+) in December and “Holiday” 2018 and then on 7.8 (6+) in January and February, Radio One urban contemporary WQOK “K-97.5” regresses by one-half share to 7.3 (6+) but remains in third-place. Having more than doubled (+.7) its 6+-stat in five straight up or flat trends (.5 – .5 – .6 – .7 – 1.2 – 1.2, 6+), Curtis Media Group classic hits-oldies WPTK “Just Right Radio” forfeits one-tenth to 1.1 (6+) and stays at #20. Co-owned regional Mexican WYMY is a collective -1.4 in three straight declines (3.2 – 2.9 – 2.1 – 1.8, #16 to #17, 6+). Immediately prior to this streak, “La Ley 101.1” more than doubled (+1.7) its 6+-stat in six straight July through “Holiday” 2018 sweeps without a loss (1.5 – 1.5 – 2.0 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 2.8 – 3.2, 6+).

Indianapolis

Spoken-Word Formats – Owing to a decrease of eight-tenths (7.2 – 6.4, third to sixth, 6+), Emmis news/talk WIBC concludes an odd streak. In the past four sweeps, “Indy’s Mobile News 93.1” was -.9 (December); -.9 (“Holiday” 2018); +.9 (January 2019); and +.9 in February.

Sports talk sibling WFNI “The Fan – Indy’s Sports Center,” which was in a November 2018 through February 2019 up/down pattern of 2.3 – 2.8 – 2.5 – 2.8 – 2.0 (6+), is unchanged in 6+-share (2.0) and 6+-rank (#16). It remains three-tenths ahead of iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WNDE “Indy’s Sports Station,” which – likewise – repeats February’s 6+-share (1.7) and 6+-rank (#17).

In addition to advancing from eighth to seventh, Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting news/talk WFYI is an overall +1.5 via three gains in succession (4.2 – 5.1 – 5.6 – 5.7, 6+).

Indianapolis Music Formats –

The market’s 6+ country share inflates by +1.8, with Cumulus Media’s WFMS “95.5 The Country Station” jumping from sixth to second, and Emmis-owned WLHK “Country 97.1 Hank FM” improving from seventh to fifth. Regarding WFMS, “The Country Station” obliterates February’s -1.0 with a +1.1 (7.2 – 6.2 – 7.3, 6+), while “Hank” replicates February’s +.7 and is a collective +2.2 as a result of three straight upticks (4.4 – 5.2 – 5.9 – 6.6, 6+). Having finished on top in April 2018, May, and June, WFMS was +1.0 (April 2018); +.5 (May); -.5 (July); -.7 (August); +.9 (October); -1.8 (December); +1.1 (January 2019); -1.0 (February); and +1.1 (March). An overall -1.3 in three straight decreases (5.7 – 5.0 – 4.6 – 4.4, 6+) before adding eight-tenths in January, “Hank” was -1.5 in September and then +.6 in October. Not only does Entercom hot AC WNTR crack the top ten (#11 to #10), “107.9 The Mix” (4.1 – 5.1, +1.0, 6+) has its highest 6+-stat (5.1) since January 2018’s 5.5. The three most recent shifts for Cumulus Media’s WJJK are January’s +2.9 (virtually eliminating December/“Holiday” 2018’s -3.0); -.7 (February); and -.6 in March (9.1 – 8.5, 6+). Nonetheless, “Classic Hits 104.5” is #1 for the third month in a row. After spending six straight sweeps on top, WJJK slipped to third in “Holiday” 2018 but returned to #1 in January. “Classic Hits 104.5” reached 10.0 (October 2018), the highest 6+-share in the station’s PPM-history. Faltering by six-tenths in addition to WJJK are iHeartMedia’s WFBQ “Q-95 Indy’s Classic Rock” (6.8, second to fourth, 6+) and Entercom CHR WZPL “99.5 ZPL” (6.3 – 5.7, fifth to seventh, 6+). The December 2018 – February 2019 topline for “Q-95” was 7.7 – 7.3 – 7.7 – 7.4 (6+). After stumbling by seven-tenths in “Holiday” 2018, WZPL was +1.7 in January/February; it reached the six-share level (6.3, February 2019, 6+) for the first time since May 2018’s 6.6.

Milwaukee

Spoken-Word Formats – With a December 2018 through February 2019 topline of 6.8 – 6.2 – 6.3 – 6.2 (6+), Good Karma Brands’ WTMJ  drops three-tenths to 5.9 (fifth to fourth, 6+), marking the first time “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” has been below a six-share (6+) since January 2018 (5.3). By picking up one-tenth in January, the flagship of the Bucks and Brewers halted three straight downtrends that produced a -4.2 (10.4 – 9.4 – 6.8 – 6.2, 6+). Some of its representative shifts include -.8 (January 2018); +.9 (February); +1.9 (April); -.6 (May); +.5 (June); -.5 (August); +.6 (September); +2.5 (October); -1.0 (November); -2.6 (December); and -.6 (“Holiday” 2018). Meanwhile, iHeartMedia’s WISN “News/Talk 1130” spirals by -1.7 in February/March (6.8 – 6.1 – 5.1, sixth to eighth, 6+). A combined -2.3 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (6.9 – 6.3 – 4.6, 6+), following its October and November +1.3, “News/Talk 1130” boasted a January +2.2 to 6.8 (6+).

By tacking on one-half share to February’s +.1 (.8 – 1.3, , 6+), Good Karma Brands’ WKTI vaults from #20 to #15. Prior to February’s increase, “94.5 ESPN” was an overall -3.7 in nine straight down or flat sweeps (4.4 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.8 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 2.3 – .8 – .7 – .7, 6+). WKTI catches Entercom’s WSSP “Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan,” which had been trending 1.4 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.4 (6+), but drops one-tenth to 1.3 (#14 to #15, 6+). With the caveat that in late-November (2018), iHeartMedia transitioned CHR “97.7 Now” to “97.3 The Game,” the station’s December 2018 through March 2019 topline is: 2.8 – .3 – .6 – .4 – .6 (#22 to #21, 6+). Co-owned WOKY “The Big 920” is up one-tenth (.2 – .3, #24 to #23, 6+).

A collective +1.2 in three straight sweeps without a loss (3.6 – 4.5 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+), University of Wisconsin news/talk WUWM bumps up from tenth to ninth. Down two-tenths (1.3 – 1.1, 6+), Wisconsin Public Radio news/talk WHAD drops from #15 to #18.

Milwaukee Music Formats – The three most recent fluctuations for Milwaukee Radio Alliance-owned alternative WLUM “102.1 Sounds Different” are -.6 (January); +.5 (February); and +1.1 in March (3.0 – 4.1, #13 to #12, 6+). Whereas January’s 2.5 is its lowest-ever 6+ PPM stat, this (4.1) is its best since July 2019 (4.1, as well). Posting a nine-tenths’ gain in back-to-back sweeps is Entercom CHR WXSS “103.7 Kiss FM” (4.5 – 5.4 – 6.3, 6+), which rockets from eighth to third and reaches the six-share level (6+) for the first time since December 2012 (6.1). While it is #1 for the fourth sweep in succession, iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WRIT “95.7 Big FM Milwaukee’s Greatest Hits” erodes by eight-tenths (10.2 – 9.4, 6+). Before shifting to #2 in October 2018, “Big FM” spent 43 consecutive ratings periods at #1; “Holiday” 2018’s 11.5 is the strongest 6+-stat for any Milwaukee station since WRIT’s 11.6 in “Holiday” 2017. Its five latest fluctuations are -1.0 (December); +3.8 (“Holiday” 2018); – 1.9 (January 2019); +.6 (February); and -.8 (March). Even though it has been without a direct country competitor since November (2018) when WKTI flipped to sports talk, iHeartMedia-owned WMIL was -1.3 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (7.5 – 7.3 – 6.2, 6+) and is a combined -2.1 in February/March (7.5 – 6.6 – 5.4, third to seventh, 6+). On the positive side, “FM 106.1 Milwaukee’s Best Country” was +1.3 in January. In back-to-back sweeps urban contemporary sibling WKKV erodes by -1.1 (6.5 – 5.4 – 4.3, 6+) and exits the top ten (#8 to #11). Immediately prior to the February sweep, “V-100.7 Jams” was an overall +2.0 via three successive gains (4.5 – 4.7 – 5.9 – 6.5, 6+). Even though it returns all but one-tenth of February’s +.6 (6.4 – 5.9, -.5, 6+), Milwaukee Radio Alliance adult contemporary WLDB “B-93.3” continues in fourth-place. A combined +5.2 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (5.1 – 7.7 – 10.3, 6+), WLDB reached double-digits (10.3, “Holiday” 2018, 6+) for the first time in its PPM-history, but later spiraled by -4.5 (January 2019).

Nashville

Spoken-Word Formats – Level at 3.6 (6+) following a February gain of four-tenths, Cumulus Media news/talk WWTN slips from #12 to #13. Prior to February’s +.4, “Super Talk 99.7” was without an increase the previous  four sweeps for an overall loss of eight-tenths (4.0 – 3.8 – 3.5 – 3.2 – 3.2, 6+). In addition to bumping up from #19 to #17, iHeartMedia news/talk WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” nets seven-tenths via three straight improvements (1.0 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.7, 6+).

Continuing an up/down sequence that began in October 2018, Cumulus Media sports talk WGFX “104.5 The Zone” is +1.3 (October); -.9 (November); +.2 (December); -.8 (“Holiday 2018”); +.3 (January 2019); -.7 (February); and +1.1 in March (4.4 – 5.5, tenth to sixth, 6+). Ironically, Cromwell Group-owned/similarly-formatted WPRT “102.5 The Game” (flat at #17) is also in an up/down sequence that covers the same timeframe: 1.3 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 1.6 – 1.9 – 1.7, (6+).

A loss of nine-tenths (5.7 – 4.8, 6+) sends Nashville Public Radio news/talk/classical hybrid WPLN-FM from sixth to tenth. “NPR News and Classical Music” was a combined +2.1 in January/February (3.6 – 5.2 – 5.7, 6+).

Nashville Music Formats – The four most recent shifts for Midwest Communications adult hits WCJK “96.3 Jack FM Playing What We Want” are +1.2 (“Holiday” 2018); -1.3 (January 2019); +.7 (February); and +1.1 in March (6.7 – 7.8, third to second, 6+). This (7.8) is the highest 6+-stat for Nashville’s “Jack” since August 2018 (7.8, as well). Its +1.2 in “Holiday” 2018 curtailed five downturns in succession that led to a cumulative -2.0 (8.1- 7.8 – 7.0 – 6.7 – 6.3 – 6.1, 6+). One full-share ahead of WCJK is its adult contemporary sibling WJXA “Mix 92.9 – Your Life, Your Music,” which is #1 for the 15^th successive ratings period but an overall -5.3 in three straight downturns (14.1 – 10.6 – 9.3 – 8.8, 6+). Recent fluctuations for “Mix” are: -6.7 (January 2018); +1.0 (February); -.5 (May); +1.0 (June); +.9 (August); -.9 (September); -.7 (October); +.9 (November); +1.9 (December); +3.2 (“Holiday” 2018); -3.5 (January 2019); -1.3 (February); and -.5 (March). January’s -3.5 interrupted three consecutive positive spikes that led to a +6.0 (8.1 – 9.0 – 10.9 – 14.1, 6+). “Holiday” 2018’s 14.1 is the highest 6+-share for any Nashville outlet since WJXA’s 14.4 in “Holiday” 2017. An increase of six-tenths by iHeartMedia urban contemporary WUBT “101.1 The Beat” (6.1 – 6.7, fourth to third, 6+) puts an end to its December 2018 through February 2019 topline of 6.1 – 6.4 – 6.4 – 6.1. Over and above being a collective +2.0 as a result of four straight positive spikes (4.1 – 4.2 – 5.4 – 5.9 – 6.1, steady at #5, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WKDF “103.3 Nash FM” reaches the six-share level for the first time since June 2013 (6.1, as well). Tied in eighth place are iHeartMedia’s WSIX “The Big 98 – Nashville’s #1 for New Country,” which nets a +1.5 in three consecutive up or flat trends (3.5 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 5.0, 6+) and Cumulus Media’s WSM-FM “95.5 Nash Icon,” which is off two-tenths in three successive sweeps without an increase (5.2 – 5.1 – 5.0 – 5.0, 6+). A combined +1.1 in January/February (6.4 – 6.7 – 7.5, 6+), directly after being -1.4 via five straight down or flat reports (7.8 – 7.6 – 6.6 – 6.5 – 6.4 – 6.4, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WNRQ “105.9 The Rock – Nashville’s Classic Rock” falters by nine-tenths (7.5 – 6.6, second to fourth, 6+). Off by six-tenths each are Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WLVU “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” (3.0, #12 to #14, 6+) and WAY Media’s similarly-formatted WAYM “Uplifting-Upbeat-Real” (#18 to #21). WLVU had been trending 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.6 – 3.6 (6+); WAYM is a combined -.8 in February/March (1.8 – 1.6 – 1.0, 6+).

Providence

Spoken-Word Formats – Off two-tenths (3.9 – 3.7, 6+), after picking up one-tenth in February, Cumulus Media news/talk WPRO-AM “News Talk 630” continues in seventh-place. Its February increase suspended three successive down or flat moves that accounted for an overall -1.0 (4.8 – 4.8 – 4.2 – 3.8, 6+). Despite returning February’s +.2 (1.9 – 2.1 – 1.9, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned news/talk WHJJ  continues at #11; “Providence’s News, Traffic, and Weather” was up seven-tenths in January. Co-owned Boston hybrid news-talk WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” is down a collective four-tenths via three straight down or flat Providence reports (1.4 – 1.1 – 1.0 – 1.0, 6+) and is flat at #18. In addition to nearly tripling (+.5) its 6+-stat in four straight (modest) increases (.3 – .4 – .5 – .6 – .8, 6+), Cumulus Media-owned WPRV “AM 790 Talk & Business” enters the top twenty (#21 to #20).

A loss of one-half share (4.1 – 3.6, 6+) drops Entercom sports talk WVEI from sixth to eighth. A combined -1.9 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (5.4 – 3.8 – 3.5, 6+), WVEI was up seven-tenths in January and down one-tenth in February.

Just as they were in February, The Wheeler School’s news/talk WELH and WGBH Educational Foundation Boston news/talk WGBH are tied at #12; each has a 1.9 – 1.6, -.3, (6+) profile. By gaining one-tenth in January, WELH ended three straight down or flat trends that accounted for an overall loss of eight-tenths (2.6 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 1.8, 6+). WGBH was stable at 1.6 (6+) in January after “Holiday” 2018’s decrease of seven-tenths.

Providence Music Formats – Not only does iHeartMedia’s WHJY net a +2.0 in four consecutive ratings periods without a loss (8.5 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 10.5, 6+), “94 HJY Providence’s Home of Rock & Roll” is #1 for the third straight month and cracks double-digits (10.5, 6+). Prior to taking over at #1 in January, WHJY was in the runner-up slot from September 2018 through “Holiday” 2018. In three straight gains (6.4 – 6.8 – 7.1 – 7.8, 6+), Cumulus Media CHR WPRO-FM “Today’s Hit Music – 92 PRO FM” is a cumulative +1.4 and advances from fourth to third with its best 6+-stat (7.8) since September 2018’s 8.4. Jumping from eighth to sixth, iHeartMedia hot AC WSNE “Coast 93.3” (+.5, 6+) continues its up/down pattern that commenced in September 2018: 5.1 – 5.5 – 4.6 – 4.8 – 3.8 – 4.1 – 3.8 – 4.3. Although it drops from third to fourth, Hall Communications’ WCTK “Cat Country 98.1” is +1.8 in three straight sweeps without a loss (5.6 – 7.2 – 7.4 – 7.4, 6+); this follows a collective -3.1 as a result of three declines in succession (8.7 – 8.2 – 6.9 – 5.6, 6+). A combined -1.6 in February/March (4.2 – 3.7 – 2.6, 6+), WFHN “Fun 107 – The South Coast’s #1 Hit Music Station” carries on in ninth-place. The Townsquare Media CHR had more than tripled (+3.0) its 6+-share as a result of six successive up or flat moves (1.2 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 4.2, 6+). Owing to a March loss of one-half share, iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWBB “B-101” (6.0, flat at #5, 6+), ends a down/up pattern that existed from September 2018 through February 2019: -.9 (September) +.5 (October); -.5 (November); +.5 (December); -.2 (“Holiday” 2018); +2 (January 2019); and -.4 (February.

Norfolk – After picking up two-tenths in February (12.7 – 12.9, 6+), Entercom urban AC WVKL sputters by -1.3 to 11.6 (6+) but is #1 for the third month in a row. “Smooth R&B from Yesterday & Today” had been on top 25 successive survey periods before segueing to the runner-up slot in “Holiday” 2018. Even though it is off by -1.3, WVKL posts a 6+-share of 11.0 or higher for the 37^th time in the last 38 sweeps; its August 2018 15.5 holds the record for highest 6+-performance by any Norfolk station in the PPM-era. In back-to-back (January and February) sweeps, co-owned WNVZ posted increases of one-full share (3.6 – 4.6 – 5.6, 6+), but “Z-104 Norfolk Rhythmic Music” falters by four-tenths in March to 5.2 (steady at #6, 6+). January’s gain halted five consecutive down or flat reports that resulted in an overall -1.7 (5.3 – 4.7 – 4.6 – 4.6 – 4.1 – 3.6, 6+). Unchanged at #8, iHeartMedia-owned rhythmic hot AC WMOV is a combined +1.0 in February/March (1.6 – 2.4 – 2.6, 6+). As a result of seven successive down or flat sweeps, “Movin’ 107.7” was –4.3 (5.0 – 1.6 – 1.3 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – .9 – .7, 6+); then +5.7 via five straight upticks (.7 – 1.0 – 1.3 – 1.5 – 1.9 – 6.4, 6+); and was -4.8 in “Holiday” 2018/January 2019 (6.4 – 4.9 – 1.6, 6+). Down or (mostly) flat the past five sweeps for a net loss of three-tenths (1.6      -1.6 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.4 – 1.3, 6+), urban-rhythmic oldies sibling WHBT “92.1 The Beat” erases the deficit with a +.3 to 1.6 (tenth to ninth, 6+). Three straight gains by Entercom hot AC WPTE yield a +1.1 (2.0 – 2.2 – 2.9 – 3.1, steady at #7, 6+). Immediately prior to this streak, “94.9 The Point” was a collective -1.5 in four straight declines (3.5 – 3.4 – 2.9 – 2.5 – 2.0, 6+). A combined -7.3 in January/February (13.6 – 6.8 – 6.3, 6+), adult contemporary sibling WWDE “101.3 2WD” is up three-tenths to 6.6 (flat at #4, 6+). Its +7.9 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (5.7 – 7.2 – 13.6, 6+) culminated with a 13.6 – the strongest 6+-showing in WWDE’s PPM-history.

Jacksonville

Spoken-Word Formats – In addition to being -1.6 in February/March (10.4 – 9.7 – 8.8, 6+), Cox Media Group news/talk WOKV “104.5 – Jacksonville’s News, Weather, and Traffic” segues from first to second. November 2018’s 11.2 is its best-ever 6+-stat in the PPM-era.

Down or flat for the fifth consecutive time, iHeartMedia sports talk WFXJ “930 The Game – Jacksonville’s Sports Leader” has lost one-half share in that stretch (.8 – .7 – .6 – .6 – .5 – .3, 6+) and exits the top twenty (#20 to #21).

Public news/talk WJCT “Your Community – Your World” is a cumulative +1.5 in five increases in a row (2.2 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 3.0 – 3.5 – 3.7, 6+) and carries on at #12.

Jacksonville Music Formats – In three successive sweeps without a loss, Cox Media Group CHR WAPE “95.1 Jacksonville’s #1 Hit Music Station” nets a +2.1 (5.2 – 6.8 – 6.8 – 7.3, 6+) and is steady at #4. Over and above being +1.6 as a result of three upticks in a row (7.3 – 8.1 – 8.6 – 8.9, 6+), classic hits-oldies sibling WJGL “96.9 The Eagle” progresses from second to first. Immediately prior to this streak, “The Eagle” was an overall -2.0 in four consecutive slips (9.3 – 9.2 – 8.5 – 8.2 – 7.3, 6+). Five straight sweeps without a loss by iHeartMedia urban contemporary WJBT resulted in a net gain of eight-tenths (5.2 – 5.4 – 5.4 – 5.4 – 5.8 – 6.0, 6+) but “93.3 The Beat” surrenders a -1.0 to 5.0 (flat at #5, 6+). Co-owned urban AC WSOL is a combined -1.4 in February/March (6.1 – 5.6 – 4.7, sixth to seventh, 6+); “V-101.5” was +1.2 in January. Even though Cox Media Group adult contemporary WEZI surrenders roughly half of January/February’s +1.1 (5.1 – 4.5, -.6, 6+), “Easy 102.9” remains in eighth-place. Its January increase of seven-tenths stymied a combined December/“Holiday” 2018 -1.3 (5.3 – 4.9 – 4.0, 6+). Its format rival – Renda Broadcasting’s WEJZ “96.1 Jacksonville’s Official Work Station” – is up three-tenths to 8.7 (steady at #3, 6+), after having lost more than 50% (-7.9) of its 6+ AQH share in January/February (16.3 – 8.5 – 8.4, 6+). WEJZ was +8.4 December/“Holiday” 2018 (7.9 – 10.7 – 16.3, 6+) with “Holiday” 2018’s 16.3 the highest 6+-mark for any Jacksonville station since “Holiday” 2015 when WEJZ notched a 19.5. Owing to six consecutive negative moves (7.0 – 6.8 – 6.7 – 6.4 – 6.1 – 5.2 – 5.0, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WQIK “Jacksonville’s Country 99.1” is a -2.0, yet actually climbs from seventh to fifth. Meanwhile, Renda Broadcasting’s WGNE “Gator Country 99.9” erases 40% of February’s half-share loss with a gain of two-tenths (3.8 – 4.0, 6+) and stays in ninth-place. Part of that three-way logjam at #9 is iHeartMedia-owned WWJK “107.3 Planet Radio – Jacksonville’s Rock Station,” which is +1.8 in three gains in succession (2.2 – 3.3 – 3.6 – 4.0, tenth to ninth, 6+). WWJK was a combined -1.4 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (3.6 – 2.8 – 2.2, 6+).

West Palm Beach

Spoken-Word Formats – With a gain of three-tenths (2.0 – 2.3, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WJNO “1290 The Palm Beaches’ News & Talk” enters the top ten (#12 to #10) and has its best 6+-showing since November 2018 (2.3, as well). January’s +.3 suspended three straight declines that resulted in a loss of six-tenths (2.4 – 2.3 – 2.1 – 1.8, 6+). Furthermore, WJNO leapfrogs co-owned news/talk WZZR “Real Radio 94.3 – Real Talk For The Palm Beaches,” which is a combined -.7 in February/March (2.7 – 2.4 – 2.0, #11 to #12, 6+). WZZR was +1.0 in “Holiday” 2018. As a result of four successive negative moves, Hubbard’s WFTL “News Talk 850” has lost roughly 55% (-1.6) of its 6+ AQH share (2.9 – 2.2 – 2.0 – 1.4 – 1.3, #15 to #17, 6+). In back-to-back sweeps, iHeartMedia Miami news/talk WIOD doubles (+.5) its West Palm Beach-stat (.5 – .7 – 1.0, 6+) and is anchored at #22.

Dade County School Board news/talk WLRN replicates February’s loss of three-tenths (3.7 – 3.4 – 3.1, 6+) and slips from sixth to seventh.

West Palm Beach Music Formats – Stuck on 9.2 (6+) in January and February, after faltering by -1.0 in January, Hubbard hot AC WRMF “97.9 Variety from the 90s and Now” explodes with a mammoth +2.0 to 11.2 (6+) and is #1 for the third month in a row. After finishing on top in 12 consecutive ratings periods, WRMF shifted to #2 in “Holiday” 2018. This is its highest 6+-share since November 2017 (11.2, as well). Co-owned adult contemporary WEAT-FM “Sunny 107.9,” which was a combined -3.2 in January/February (10.7 – 7.8 – 7.5, 6+), answers with a +.7 to 8.2 (6+) and remains in the runner-up slot. Steady in third-place, iHeartMedia-owned/similarly-formatted WOLL “Today’s Kool 105.5” is off one-tenth to 6.4 (6+), snapping at three its consecutive string of positive spikes that netted a +1.2 (5.3 – 5.5 – 5.8 – 6.5, 6+). In three straight gains (3.8 – 4.6 – 4.9 – 5.3, 6+), cluster-mate WKGR “Gater 98.7 – The Palm Beaches’ Rock Station” was a combined +1.5, but that increase vanishes completely with a -1.5 to 3.8 (flat at #5, 6+). Co-owned Spanish contemporary WRLX “Mia 92.1,” which notched a one-half share increase in February to wipe away its -.5 in three consecutive losses (2.8 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.3, 6+), regresses by seven-tenths (2.8 – 2.1, 6+) and departs the top ten (#9 to #11). Flat at #9, WAY Media contemporary Christian WAYF “WAY-FM Uplifting-Upbeat-Real” is a cumulative -1.9 via five consecutive down or flat reports (4.4 – 4.0 – 3.6 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.5, 6+).

Greensboro

Spoken-Word Formats – Surrendering more than half of January/February’s combined +1.4 (3.0 – 4.3 – 4.4, 6+) with a -.8 to 3.6 (6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WPTI “94.5 Your News, Talk, & Sports Station” falls from ninth to tenth. WPTI was -1.2 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (4.2 – 3.7 – 3.0, 6+).

More than doubling (+.5) its 6+ AQH share in three consecutive increases (.4 – .5 – .6 – .9, 6+), Curtis Media Group sports talk WSJS “Triad Sports” climbs from #17 to #15.

Flat at 2.3 (6+), after being up a combined half-share in January/February (1.8 – 2.0 – 2.3, 6+), Wake Forest University news/talk WFDD “88.5 Public Radio for the Piedmont” is anchored at #13 for the 11^th consecutive time. This marks the fourth consecutive sweep that University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill news/talk WUNC is either up or flat for a net gain of two-tenths (.6 – .6 – .6 – .7 – .8, flat at #16, 6+).

Greensboro Music Formats – The three most recent fluctuations by Entercom adult hits WSMW are +.9 (January); -.6 (February); and +.9 in March (8.9 – 9.8, 6+) as “98.7 Simon Says We Play Everything” progresses from second to first with its best 6+performance (9.8) since July 2018’s 10.0. This marks the first time WSMW has reached #1 since August 2016 when it logged a 10.5 (6+). “Simon” was a combined +.9 in “Holiday” 2018/January 2019 (8.6 – 8.6 – 9.5, 6+). Displaced from the lead and dropping to second is urban AC sibling WQMG “97.1 QMG The Best R&B and Old School,” which is -2.3 as the result of five straight declines (11.4 – 10.8 – 10.3 – 9.9 – 9.6 – 9.1, 6+). Its consecutive streak of reaching double-digits (6+) ended in January at 26. Up one-full share in November, WQMG spent 11 straight sweeps at #1 before segueing to #2 in December. An overall +.9 through three consecutive positive moves (6.1 – 6.2 – 6.9 – 7.0, 6+), rhythmic CHR cluster-mate WJMH “102 Jamz” falters by one-half share to 6.5 (6+) but remains in fourth-place. Its “Holiday” 2018 increase ended six straight down or flat sweeps that resulted in an overall -2.1 (8.2 – 7.4 – 7.2 – 7.2 – 6.9 – 6.9 – 6.1, 6+). A collective +.8 in three sweeps in succession without a loss (2.8 – 3.0 – 3.6 – 3.6, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR WMKS “100.3 Kiss-FM” enters the top ten (#11 to #10). In the last three survey periods, WPAW “93.1 The Wolf” had shifts of one-half share: -.5 (“Holiday” 2018); +.5 (January 2019); and +.5 (February). The Entercom country outlet drops two-tenths in March (5.7 – 5.5, 6+) and continues in sixth-place. Prior to January’s gain, “The Wolf” was a cumulative -1.2 in three declines in a row (5.9 – 5.5 – 5.2 – 4.7, 6+). After substituting January’s +.7 with a February -.7 (5.3 – 6.0 – 5.3, 6+), iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WTQR “Q-104.1 – #1 for New Country” is flat at 5.3 (6+) and repeats February’s eighth-place finish; “Q104.1” was -1.6 in December.

Memphis

Spoken-Word Formats – A combined +1.8 in January/February (2.6 – 3.8 – 4.4, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WREC “600 AM – Memphis’ News, Traffic, & Weather” is off one-tenth in March to 4.3 (6+) and slips from eighth to tenth.

Locked on 4.0 (6+) in January and February, Entercom sports talk WMFS “ESPN Sports Radio” drops one-tenth to 3.9 (6+) but remains at #11. Co-owned WMC-AM is without an increase for the ninth straight time for a collective loss of three-tenths (.4 – .4 – .2 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 -.1 – .1, 6+); “ESPN 790” is anchored at #18.

Memphis Music Formats – Continuing an up/down pattern that started in November 2018 (5.6 – 6.2 – 5.4 – 6.0 – 5.8 – 6.4, 6+), iHeartMedia gospel WHAL “Hallelujah 95.7 – Memphis’ Inspiration Station” carries on in fifth place with its highest 6+-figure (6.4) since April 2018’s 7.1. After reaching the five-share level (6+) in “Holiday” 2018, Cumulus Media adult contemporary WKIM was a combined -4.0 in January/February (5.1 – 1.3 – 1.1, 6+); however, “98.9 The Bridge” picks up one-half share in March to 1.6 (#15 to #14, 6+). Meanwhile, the seven most recent moves by its AC rival – Entercom’s WRVR “104.5 The River” – are +2.4 (October); -.1 (November); -1.6 (December); +2.0 (“Holiday” 2018); -3.1 (January 2019); +.7 (February); and -1.1 in March (8.9 – 7.8, flat at #3, 6+). “Holiday” 2018’s 11.3 is its strongest 6+-performance since “Holiday” 2017’s 12.9 (#6). Albeit off two-tenths (11.6 – 11.4, 6+), iHeartMedia urban AC KJMS “V-101” is #1 for the fifth time in a row and in double-digits for the 12^th successive sweep. “V-101” was a combined +2.3 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (10.5 – 11.5 – 12.8, 6+); “Holiday” 2018’s 12.8 was KJMS’ highest 6+-share in more than six years (13.5, December 2012). Following back-to-back (January/February) gains of eight-tenths (8.3 – 9.1 – 9.9, 6+), Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO forfeits one full-share to 8.9 but remains in second-place; “103.5 The Best Mix of R&B” was a combined -2.4 in December/”Holiday 2018 (10.7 – 8.7 – 8.3, 6+). On the heels of February’s loss of seven-tenths, Entercom hot AC WMC-FM “FM 100 Today’s Best Mix” falters by another half-share (5.6 – 4.9 – 4.4, sixth to eighth, 6+). “FM 100” was +1.5 in January, after being down seven-tenths in “Holiday” 2018.   

Hartford

Spoken-Word Formats – As a result of three straight upticks (5.2 – 5.7 – 5.9 – 7.3, 6+), Entercom news/talk WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” is an overall +2.1 (which includes March’s +1.4) and progresses from sixth to third. Down two-tenths (1.3 – 1.1, 6+), Red Wolf Broadcasting news/talk WDRC-AM “AM 1360 The Talk of Connecticut” is at #14 for the third month in a row.

The November 2018 through March 2019 topline for iHeartMedia sports talk WUCS “97.9 ESPN Hartford” is 1.6 – 1.4 – 1.6 – 1.9 – 1.5 – 1.8 (#13 to #12, 6+).

Up one-tenth (5.2 – 5.3, 6+), Connecticut Public Broadcasting Network news/talk WNPR remains in ninth-place. “Connecticut’s Public Media Source for News & Ideas” was -.7 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.9 (January 2019); and -.9 (February). A loss of four-tenths (1.5 – 1.1, 6+) sends University of Massachusetts-owned WFCR “New England Public Radio” from #12 to #14.

Hartford Music Formats – Tacking on six-tenths to February’s half-share increase (5.0 – 5.5 – 6.1, 6+), iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WHCN “105.9 The River” carries on in seventh-place with its best 6+-stat (6.1) since August 2018’s 6.5. Continuing a down/up pattern it commenced in August 2018, Entercom hot AC WTIC-FM “96.5 TIC-FM” has a topline of: 7.2 – 7.0 – 7.5 – 7.2 – 7.4 – 6.3 – 7.7 – 7.2 – 7.6 (6+) and pushes up from third to second. Whereas January’s 7.7 is WTIC-FM’s highest 6+-share since July 2018 (8.6), 6.3 (6+) in “Holiday” 2018 marked the first time it fell below a seven-share since March 2018’s 6.7 (6+). Notwithstanding that it relinquishes in its entirety February’s +1.0 (12.1 – 11.1, -1.0, 6+), adult contemporary cluster-mate WRCH is #1 for the 33^rd consecutive ratings period and in double-digits (11.1, 6+) for the 30^th time in the last 32 sweeps. “Lite 100.5” was +7.4 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (10.6 – 12.4 – 18.0, 6+), with “Holiday” 2018’s 18.0 the strongest 6+-showing for any Hartford station since WRCH recorded an 18.3 in “Holiday” 2017. Co-owned rhythmic CHR WZMX “Hot 93.7,” which was a combined +1.1 in January/February (6.8 – 7.7 – 7.9, 6+), erodes in March by -1.3 to 6.6 (6+) and slips from the runner-up slot to fifth. After trending 6.8 – 6.4 – 6.9 – 6.8 (December 2018 through February 2019, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR WKSS “Kiss 95.7 – All The Hits” regresses by six-tenths to 6.2 (fifth to sixth, 6+).

Friday, April 19, 2019

Talkin’ Trump with Chris Christie at the WPHT Speaker Series. Pictured above at last night’s “1210 WPHT Speaker Series” sold-out, live event are WPHT afternoon personality Rich Zeoli (right) and former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie (left) at the Scottish Rite Auditorium in Collingswood, New Jersey.  WPHT program director Jared Hart says the event couldn’t have been timed better with the release of the Mueller Report and the latest from the White House.   He adds the 500 attendees were “relentlessly entertained by Christie’s wit and honesty.”

Broncos Great Tom Nalen Named PM Drive Co-Host at KKFN, Denver. After the February departure of longtime afternoon drive personality Alfred “Big Al” Williams – who’s headed to iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk KOA after his non-compete expires – Bonneville finds the new on-air partner for Darren “DMac” McKee (left) on “The Drive” on KKFN “104.3 The Fan.”  Denver Broncos great Tom Nalen (right) joins the program starting Monday (4/22).  McKee says, “I’m still pinching myself.  I cannot believe Tom Nalen is my new radio partner.  Our friendship goes back to his days playing for the Broncos and continued after he retired.  I honestly don’t know if I’ve ever been more excited or happy professionally following this move.  To host ‘The Drive’ every day with Tom Nalen is an absolute dream come true.”  Nalen has done radio in the market co-hosting programs with Kroenke Sports and Entertainment and Front Range Sports Network. Station program director Raj Sharan says, “While Tommy’s football credentials are unquestionable, it’s his personality that made him the perfect fit as our new co-host of ‘The Drive.’  His sense of humor mixed with blunt honesty and a heart of gold add up to one of the most loveable figures in Denver sports history.  During our audition process, his chemistry with DMac was instant and undeniable, as was the overwhelming feedback we received from our listeners.  It was clear and obvious that Tommy was the people’s choice and I’m thrilled all of Broncos Country will enjoy his insight and charm every weekday on their drive home.”

Alpha Media Portland Names Sara Perrin Marketing Director. Marketing pro Sara Perrin is named the new marketing director for Alpha Media’s Portland station group that includes: news/talk KXL, talk KUFO, CHR KBFF, country KUPL, triple A KINK, sports talk KXTG-AM, and hip hop KWEE.  In this position, Perrin will “support efforts created and facilitated by different department and profit centers, including the Bloodworks Live Studio, creative services, and promotions departments.  She will work closely with all departments to design and develop marketing strategies… and be responsible for coordinating and executing all these strategies on-air, online, and on-site.”  Alpha Media Portland SVP/market manager Lisa Decker comments, “Sara is a dynamic leader with 25 years of experience creating ingenious strategies, effective solutions, and unforgettable tactics to attract, activate, and retain target audiences.  Her vast experience working with the biggest brands in Portland, along with her innovative, imaginative, and resourceful problem-solving abilities make her uniquely qualified for this position.  We are thrilled to have Sara join the Alpha team.”

Westwood One News Wins National Headliner Award. The news organization was honored with first place honors for its reporting and coverage of the Parkland school shooting in Florida last year in the “Breaking News or Continuing Coverage of a Single News Event” category.  The National Headliner Award judges stated Westwood One News’ reporting was “precise and eloquent coverage of the Parkland shooting.  Radio at its best: the sound and the actualities tell the story; clear and compelling writing.”  Westwood One News also won third place in the category for its coverage of Hurricane Michael. The National Headliner Awards were founded in 1934 by the Press Club of Atlantic City to recognize journalistic merit in the communications industry.

Radio News Pro Steve Swenson Joins Nashville Public Radio.  Radio executive Steve Swenson is named the president and chief executive officer for Nashville Public Radio, effective April 29.  Swenson served with CBS RADIO for years as vice president and general manager for New York all-newsers WINS and WCBS-AM.  He was most recently SVP and market manager for CBS’ Washington, DC stations prior to the radio division’s sale to Entercom.  Before joining CBS RADIO, he served as general manager for all-news WTOP-FM, Washington, DC.  Nashville Public Radio board chairman Bill Carpenter says, “We are delighted to have attracted Steve Swenson to Nashville Public Radio during this period of accomplishment and opportunity for our stations WPLN and ‘91Classical.’  Steve is well-recognized for bringing engaging content rooted in community partnership to grow the markets he has served.  Nashville Public Radio’s award-winning team is known for their ingenuity in providing in-depth reporting and programming that engages our long-standing and new listeners.  We believe that Steve’s proven abilities will be a terrific complement to our station and our broader community as we continue to expand our offerings throughout Middle Tennessee.”

St. Louis Radio Host Don Marsh Says ‘No Thanks’ to Lifetime Achievement Award. Regular TALKERS readers remember the story about St. Louis public radio host Don Marsh we published a few weeks ago.  Marsh resigned from his job at St. Louis Public Radio’s KWMU-FM after being called out by management for telling his guest (iconic St. Louis TV newswoman Karen Floss) that she “looked great.”  Floss did not complain, in fact, she told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that people of her age often greet each other with such a compliment.  The complaint to station management was made by the show’s producer.  After being told by his boss that his greeting bordered on being inappropriate, Marsh quit the station.  Fast-forward to today, Marsh was scheduled to receive the 2019 Millard S. Cohen Lifetime Achievement Award from St. Louis Public Radio on May 2, however, he tells the Post-Dispatch he won’t be there and accepting the award now would be “inappropriate.”  KWMU tells the paper that as a result, no one will receive the award this year.

Release of Mueller Report Top News/Talk Story for Week of April 15-19.  The public release of the redacted version of the Mueller Report was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers Ten^TM.  At #2 this week was the migrant crisis at the Southern border and the related political maneuvers.  Coming in at #3 was the politics and the people surrounding the 2020 presidential election, followed by the Notre Dame Cathedral fire at #4.  The Talkers Ten^TM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.  It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s entire chart here.

Joe Madison Is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast.  One of the top 10 ranking members of the TALKERS Heavy Hundred list of the Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts in America, Joe Madison, who hosts mornings on SiriusXM Satellite Radio’s “Urban View” channel, is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.”  Longtime friends and colleagues, the two seasoned broadcasters engage in a spirited conversation about Madison’s TV appearance this month on the season finale of the highly acclaimed PBS program, “Finding Your Roots.” The show delves into the biological ancestry of interesting and famous people.  The touching episode, which opens with audio, and later video, of Madison (also known as The Black Eagle) broadcasting from his SiriusXM studios in Washington, DC, follows the broadcaster as he discovers ancestral secrets with the help and support of his dear friend (and host of the show), Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Jr.   Some of the surprises revealed include identifying his biological father; his lineage’s shocking connection to the Tuskegee experiments; and his relation to the Confederacy – as he jokes he may “join the Sons of the Confederacy” because it would “shake things up.”  The episode will re-air throughout April on PBS.  Commenting on the podcast, Harrison says, “The first time I had the Black Eagle on this program was about four years ago and he supported my view then and now about the diversity of opinion, lifestyle and humanity that exists within the African American population of the United States.  But he also keenly understands those elements, characteristics, and common experiences that tie these 46 million-plus people into what we refer to as the African American community.   In my opinion, this is a man who has transcended the role of simply being a radio entertainer or personality and has become over the years a political, cultural, and inspirational leader.  A watchdog and defender of a people.”  To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here or click on the player box marked “The Michael Harrison Interview” located in the right-hand column of the TALKERS email newsletter and every page on Talkers.com.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Programmer Bo Matthews can add rhythm format captain to his c.v. after Alpha Media promotes him.  Matthews serves as Ohio operations manager (Dayton and Canton/Akron markets). He continues to oversee his respective stations there but now is responsible for assisting in the growth of all stations in the rhythm music format.  He comments, “The first station I ever programmed was a rhythm station – WBTT, Fort Myers – which was some of the most fun I’ve ever had in my programming career. I am super excited to be working with our rhythm stations and creating some magic with the many talented people we have.  Thanks to [EVP of content] Phil Becker for the confidence and continued partnership and collaboration.”…..At Cox Media Group’s WALR, Atlanta “KISS 104.1,” Dyron Ducati is officially named the midday personality.  He’s been with the station since last year filling in on weekend and in middays.  WALR director of branding and programming Terri Avery says, “It’s good to know that after searching all over the country, the person for the job was right in our camp.  Dyron brings a smooth, unobtrusive sound to the ‘KISS 104.1’ midday.  We are proud to have him represent us.”…..Cumulus Media appoints Alana Lynn midday host at country KIZN, Boise “Kissin’ 92.3.”  She was most recently with Entercom’s country KMLE, Phoenix as music director and morning host.  KIZN program director Hank Aaron states, “When I heard Alana Lynn was coming back to the Treasure Valley, I had one thought: She needs to be on my team at ‘Kissin’ 92.3!’ Alana is going to be a great fit in middays on ‘Kissin’ 92.3.’”…..On-air pro Rick Adams announces he’s exited iHeartMedia’s WMSI-FM, Jackson, Mississippi “MISS 103” after more than three decades with the station.  He’s pursuing a new career in the real estate field…..Another radio pro is out after more than 30 years at the station.  This news is from Los Angeles as urban AC KTWV “94.7 The Wave” midday personality Talaya Trigueros is the victim of budget cuts at the Entercom station…..Rock radio history buffs will want to see the new documentary about the early years of Boston’s WBCN from producer/director Bill Lichtenstein.  The two-hour film, WBCN and The American Revolution, debuts next weekend (4/27) at the Somerville Theatre as the Centerpiece Spotlight Documentary at the Independent Film Festival Boston.  You can read WBUR-FM, Boston’s preview of the film here.

March 2019 PPM Data – Part Three. March 2019 ratings information has been released for Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Orlando, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Columbus. Nielsen Audio’s March 2019 survey period covered February 28 – March 27. See all the 6+ Numbers from subscribing stations here. Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@Talkers.com) provides his “Takeaways” from these 12-PPM markets below.

Portland

Spoken Word Formats – On the heels of January/February’s nine-tenths’ gain  (3.8 – 4.2 – 4.7, Alpha Media news/talk KXL surrenders all but one-tenth of that increase (4.7 – 3.9, -.8, 6+) and departs the top ten (#6 to #11). Immediately prior to January, “FM News 101 – Stay Connected” was -1.5 via three straight negative moves (5.3 – 5.1 – 4.5 – 3.8, 6+). Even though iHeartMedia’s KEX returns February’s one-tenth increase (2.1 – 2.2 – 2.1, 6+), “News Radio 1190 – Depend On Us” progresses from #19 to #18. Alpha Media news/talk KUFO “Freedom 970” is unchanged from February in 6+-share (.9) and 6+-rank (#25).

Co-owned sports talk KXTG “The Game” is without a loss the third report in a row for a net gain of four-tenths (.9 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.3, #23 to #21, 6+). That follows four consecutive decreases that accounted for a -.6 (1.5 – 1.4 – 1.2 – 1.1 – .9, 6+). “The Game” overtakes Entercom sports talk KFXX “1080 The Fan” (#22 to #23), whose November 2018 through March 2019 (6+) topline is 1.3 – 1.1 – .9 – 1.1 – 1.3 – 1.2. A gain of three-tenths takes iHeartMedia-owned KPOJ “Sports Radio 620” to .8 (#28 to #26), the highest 6+-showing for the Portland Trailblazers flagship since June 2018 (.9).

Even though it is a combined -2.0 in February/March (9.3 – 7.7 – 7.3, 6+), Oregon Public Broadcasting news/talk KOPB repeats in the runner-up slot, after a one-month (January 2019) stay at #1. It previously was on top from January 2018 to August 2018 (including a tie in April), before dropping to second in September. Recent KOPB fluctuations include: +1.1 (January 2018); -1.1 (February); +1.0 (March); -1.0 (April); -.5 (May); +.7 (October); -1.2 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.2 (January 2019); and -1.6 (February).

Portland Music Formats – Not only is Salem Media Group contemporary Christian KFIS a whopping (combined) +2.3 in back-to-back sweeps (2.6 – 3.6 – 4.9, 6+), “104.1 The Fish” rockets into the top ten (#13 to #6). The last time KFIS reached the four-share level (6+) was November 2018 (6+). By way of perspective, “The Fish” ranked #18 in January. Trending 2.3 – 2.7 – 2.4 (“Holiday” 2018 – January 2019 – February, 6+), iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR KXJM “Jam’n 107.5” posts a +.9 to 3.3 (#18 to #16), its best 6+-showing since September 2018 (3.3, as well). Powered by three consecutive positive spikes, classic hits-oldies sibling KLTH nets a robust +3.5 (5.4 – 7.1 – 8.1 – 8.9, 6+) with “106.7 The Eagle” repeating at #1. Prior to February, KLTH last reached the eight-share level (6+) nearly eight years ago (May 2011, 8.1, as well). Improving by eight-tenths in addition to “The Eagle” are Alpha Media’s KBFF “Live 95.5” (tenth to fifth) and Entercom-owned KWJJ “The Northwest’s Hottest Country – 99.5 The Wolf” (3.4 – 4.2, #14 to #9, 6+). “Live” is now +1.1 in three consecutive increases (3.9 – 4.0 – 4.2 – 5.0, 6+), while “The Wolf” logs its best 6+-stat (4.2) since July 2018’s 4.6. Posting its highest 6+-stat (4.5) since February 2018, KWJJ’s format foe – Alpha Media’s KUPL “98.7 The Bull – #1 For New Country” – is a collective +1.2 in three straight gains (3.3 – 3.6 – 4.1 – 4.5, 6+) and cracks the top ten (#11 to #8). It continues to be a rollercoaster ride for Entercom-owned KGON. Entering the December 2018 sweep, “92.3 Portland’s Classic Rock” was a collective -1.0 through four straight July through November decreases (5.6 – 5.4 – 4.8 – 4.7 – 4.6, 6+). It followed with a cumulative +1.2 in three gains in a row (4.6 – 5.1 – 5.6 – 5.8, 6+) before faltering by a full-share in February. Wiping away half of that -1.0 with a +.5 to 5.3 (6+), KGON advances from fifth to fourth. The September 2018 through “Holiday” 2018 topline for Salem Media Group regional Mexican KRYP was a steady 2.0 – 2.0 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.0 (6+), but “El Rey 93.1” erupted with a +1.3 in January to 3.3 (6+). In February/March though it is a combined -1.4 (3.3 – 3.0 – 1.9, #17 to #19, 6+). Returning in full February’s increase of seven-tenths (7.0 – 7.7 – 7.0, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary KKCW “K-103,” which was -9.2 in January, drops from a second-place tie to third. In “Holiday” 2018, “K-103” had its strongest 6+-showing (16.2) since “Holiday” 2017 (16.9); KKCW was on top in April 2018, September, December, and “Holiday” 2018. Faltering by seven-tenths as well are Alpha Media triple A KINK “101.9 Uniquely Portland” and All Classical Public Media’s KQAC “All Classical Portland.” Significant shifts continue for KINK, which has been a collective -1.7 (October 2018/November); +7 (December); -.5 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.2 (January 2019); -.8 (February); and -.7 in March (4.7 – 4.0, sixth to tenth, 6+). Immediately prior to dropping seven-tenths in March (3.7, #8 to #14, 6+), KQAC was up or flat four times in a row for a collective +1.8 (2.6 – 2.7 – 3.4 – 4.4 – 4.4, 6+) and reached the four-share level (4.4, 6+) for the first time since February 2017’s 4.2. Off six-tenths following February’s +.7 (3.7 – 4.4 – 3.8, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KFBW “105.9 The Brew – Portland’s Rock Station” exits the top ten (#8 to #12). When Mount Hood Community College District’s KMHD displayed a “Holiday” 2018 increase of +1.0 to 1.1 (6+), it erased its -1.0 via four straight negative moves (1.1 – .8 – .7 – .6 – .1, 6+) and began a successive string of increases that netted a +1.4 (.1 – 1.1 – 1.2 – 1.5, 6+). In March, however, the jazz outlet regresses by one-half share to 1.0 (#20 to #24, 6+).

Charlotte

Spoken-Word Formats – After back-to-back gains of four-tenths (3.6 – 4.0 – 4.4, 6+), Entercom news/talk WBT slips by one-tenth to 4.3 (6+) and leaves the top ten (#9 to #11).

With a March increase of two-tenths, co-owned sports talk WFNZ “The Fan – Charlotte’s Sports Leader” makes up half of February’s -.4 (1.3 – 1.5, 6+) and repeats at #18. Entering the February report, the Charlotte Hornets flagship logged seven straight positive or flat moves that nearly tripled (+1.1) its 6+ share (.6 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.7, 6+).

A combined +1.1 in January/February (1.8 – 2.7 – 2.9, 6+), University Radio Foundation news/talk WFAE “Charlotte’s NPR News Source” returns roughly half that increase (2.3, -.6, 6+) and continues at #16. While it remains at #21, South Carolina Educational Television Commission news/talk WNSC is up one-tenth to .3 (6+), thus curtailing five straight down or flat trends accounting for a one-half share loss (.7 – .6 – .4 – .3 – .3 – .2, 6+).

Charlotte Music Formats – Four consecutive sweeps without an increase by Beasley Media Group mainstream CHR WNKS resulted in a -1.2 (4.4 – 4.1 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 3.2, 6+); however, “Kiss 95.1” is now a combined +1.5 in February/March (3.2 – 3.6 – 4.7, 6+) and enters the top ten (#12 to #9). By notching a +1.0 to 5.5 (6+), adult contemporary sibling WKQC not only advances from eighth to sixth, “K-104.7 More Music, Better Variety” ends a January/February slide that resulted in a -8.4 (12.9 – 4.6 – 4.5, 6+). Entering the November 2018 sweep, iHeartMedia’s WKKT “96.9 The Kat – Charlotte’s #1 for New Country” was an overall +1.1 in four successive months without a loss (6.0 – 6.2 – 6.2 – 6.8 – 7.1, 6+). It was then a combined -2.3 in December and “Holiday” 2018 (6.7 – 5.8 – 4.4, 6+). “The Kat” was +1.2 in January; lost three-tenths in February; and answers with a +.8 in March (5.3 – 6.1, sixth to fourth, 6+). There’s more good news for the country format in “The Queen City” as Beasley Media Group’s WSOC “103.7 Country’s Hottest Hits” adds two-tenths (6.8 – 7.0, 6+) and takes sole possession of first-place. It was tied for the lead in February with urban AC cluster-mate WBAV “V-101.9.” Prior to gaining nine-tenths in January, WSOC had been without an increase the previous four reports for an overall -1.3 (7.7 – 7.5 – 7.5 – 6.6 – 6.4, 6+). On top in September 2018, October, and November, WSOC segued to third in December. Meanwhile, “V-101.9,” which notched a collective gain of nine-tenths via three consecutive increases (5.9 – 6.1 – 6.2 – 6.8, 6+), drops six-tenths to 6.2 (first to third, 6+). The four most recent fluctuations for iHeartMedia adult hits WLKO “102.9 The Lake” are -1.2 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.1 (January 2019); -1.4 (February); and +.5 in March (6.3 – 6.8, third to second, 6+). Immediately in advance of that “Holiday” 2018 -1.2, WLKO posted eight straight months without a loss for a +3.7 (4.1 – 4.3 – 4.7 – 5.2 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 6.4 – 7.1 – 7.8, 6+). WSOC and WBAV dislodged “The Lake” from #1 in February after WLKO’s January-only stay on top. A combined January/February +2.1 (3.9 – 4.8 – 6.0, 6+), Beasley Media Group urban contemporary WPEG “Power 98” forfeits eight-tenths to 5.2 (fifth to seventh, 6+); February’s 6.0 is its best 6+-stat since August 2015’s 6.5. Slipping by seven-tenths and one-half share, respectively, are Radio Training Network contemporary Christian WLFJ “HIS Radio” (1.0 – .3, flat at #20, 6+) and Radio One gospel WPZS “Praise 100.9 Charlotte’s Inspiration Station” (3.4 – 2.9, #14 to #15, 6+).

San Antonio

Spoken-Word Formats – An overall +1.0 in three straight sweeps without a loss (3.3 – 3.6 – 4.3 – 4.3, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk and San Antonio Spurs’ flagship WOAI “News Radio 1200 – San Antonio’s News, Traffic, & Weather” drops one-tenth to 4.2 (seventh to eighth, 6+). The July 2018 – March 2019 topline for Alpha Media news/talk KTSA “Stay Connected” is extremely steady: 1.4 – 1.7 – 1.4 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.3 – 1.3 (#24 to #23, 6+).

Unchanged at #28, iHeartMedia sports talk KTKR “Ticket 760 – San Antonio’s Sports Station” is up one-tenth for the third time in a row (.3 – .4 – .5 – .6, 6+), doubling (+.3) its 6+-stat in the process.

Following a January/February +1.0 (2.7 – 3.5 – 3.7, 6+), Texas Public Radio news/talk KSTX is off three-tenths to 3.4 (#11 to #12, 6+).  

San Antonio Music Formats – Within 4.0 – 4.6 range (6+) in each of the last seven survey periods (4.5 – 4.6 – 4.4 – 4.6 – 4.4 – 4.0 – 4.1, 6+), Cox Media Group KISS “Rocks San Antonio” hangs out a +.9 to 5.0 (6+) and leaps from eighth to fourth. Hot AC sibling KSMG wiped away nearly half of January’s +1.2 with a February loss of one-half share, but “Magic 105.3 – Today’s Best Music” rebounds with a +.7 in March (4.0 – 4.7, ninth to sixth, 6+). Despite returning February’s gain of one-tenth (7.9 – 8.0 – 7.9, 6+), co-owned classic hits-oldies KONO-FM “101.1 San Antonio’s Greatest Hits” advances from second to first. KONO-FM had been in the runner-up slot the past five sweeps. Before slipping to #2 in November, KONO-FM finished at #1 the previous ten sweeps. Dropping out of the penthouse and segueing to third-place is iHeartMedia-owned KAJA “KJ-97 San Antonio’s #1 Country Station” (8.1 – 6.2, -1.9, 6+). Hefty fluctuations are common for “KJ-97” as evidenced by +.5 (September 2018); -1.1 (October); +1.0 (December); -1.0 (“Holiday” 2018); a mammoth +3.0 (January 2019); and –1.9 (March). The same may be stated about Cox Media Group-owned KCYY “Y-100 San Antonio’s New Country Leader,” which has been +.9 (August 2018); -.8 (September); +.9 (November); -.8 (December); -1.1 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.8 (January 2019); +.6 (February); and -.6 in March (7.5 – 6.9, third to second, 6+). September’s loss ended three straight gains that accounted for a +1.5 (5.3 – 5.7 – 5.9 – 6.8, 6+). Country rivals “KJ-97” and “Y-100” were tied in June 2018 and separated by just one-tenth in April, September, and “Holiday” 2018. After bouncing back from January’s colossal -10.7 (14.9 – 4.2, 6+) with a February increase of four-tenths to 4.6 (6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary KQXT “Q-101.9” sputters by six-tenths (4.0, fourth to ninth, 6+). Without an increase the sixth straight time for a collective -2.6 (5.4 – 5.4 – 5.3 – 4.1 – 3.5 – 3.2 – 2.8, 6+), Univision Radio regional Mexican KROM Que Buena 92.9” drifts from #13 to #16.

Sacramento

 Spoken-Word Formats – Following February’s loss of six-tenths iHeartMedia-owned news/talk KFBK further falters by eight-tenths (7.6 – 7.0 – 6.2, 6+) but carries on in the runner-up slot. “Sacramento’s News, Weather, and Traffic Station” was tied for first in January. Steady at #14, co-owned KSTE “Talk 650” has a December 2018 through March 2019 topline of 2.4 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 2.3 – 2.7 (6+).

This is the third time in the last five sweeps that Bonneville’s KHTK “Sports 1140” logs a .9 (.9 – .9 – 1.2 – 1.2 – .9, #20 to #21, 6+). In four successive down or flat reports, Entercom’s KIFM-AM spiraled by more than 50% (1.6 – 1.0 – .9 – .9 – .7, 6+) but “ESPN Radio 1320” is up one-tenth to .8 (flat at #25, 6+).

As a result of four consecutive decreases, Capital Public Radio news/talk KXJZ is -2.7 (6.9 – 5.9 – 5.1 – 4.4 – 4.2, ninth to tenth, 6+), although December 2018’s 6.9 is the highest 6+-stat in its PPM-history. Northern California Public Broadcasting’s KQEI has an October 2018 through March 2019 topline of: .6 – .6 – .7 – .6 – .7 – .7 – .6 (#25 to #26, 6+).

Sacramento Music Formats – Owing to three consecutive improvements, Bonneville’s KNCI “New Country 105.1” is an overall +1.4  (4.2 – 4.7 – 5.5 – 5.6, 6+) and continues in fifth-place. Its recent fluctuations include a combined -.9 in August/September; a collective +1.5 in three straight September–October–November-December gains; -1.5 (“Holiday” 2018); +.5 (January 2019); and +.8 (February). Having posted a 4.1 in three of the last four sweeps (4.1 – 4.2 – 4.1 – 4.1, 6+), Entercom CHR KUDL “106.5 The End” explodes with a +1.2 to 5.3 (tenth to sixth, 6+), its strongest 6+-stat since May 2018’s 5.6. Albeit down one-tenth (8.6 – 8.5, 6+) after February’s +1.0, co-owned KSEG “96.9 The Eagle – Sacramento’s Classic Rock” is on top for the third month in a row (including January’s first-place tie with news/talk KFBK). In the lead ten consecutive survey periods before shifting to #2 in December, “The Eagle” faltered by eight-tenths in “Holiday” 2018. Its recent fluctuations include +1.0 (May 2018); +.9 (June); -.9 (July); +.6 (September); -.5 (October); -1.1 (November); -.8 (“Holiday” 2018); and +1.0 (February 2019). A combined +2.1 in three straight positive spikes (2.4 – 3.1 – 3.7 – 4.5, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary KBEB “92.5 The Breeze” has that streak broken with a two-tenths drop to 4.3 (eighth to ninth, 6+). Formerly “92.5 The Bull – #1 for New Country,” KBEB transitioned to adult contemporary in early-November (2018). It was up two-tenths in consecutive sweeps (2.1 – 2.3 – 2.5, September – October – November, 6+) but then off one-tenth to 2.4 (6+) in December. The market’s incumbent AC, Entercom-owned KYMX “Mix 96 – Today’s Hits, Yesterday’s Favorites,” is up two-tenths (6.2, third to second, 6+), after being a combined -7.8 in January/February (13.8 – 6.2 – 6.0, 6+). For the 13^th successive survey period, Entravision Communications’ similarly-formatted KNTY logs a 6+-share between 2.0 – 2.5; “101.9 The Wolf” is unchanged from February in 6+-share (2.1) and 6+-rank (#15).

Pittsburgh

Spoken-Word Formats – Steady in ninth-place, Entercom news/talk KDKA-AM  is a combined -.8 in February/March (5.1 – 4.6 – 4.3, 6+). “News Radio 1020” was -.7 (“Holiday” 2018) and +1.1 (January 2019).

Co-owned sports talk KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan” remains in fourth-place but is -.7 in February/March (7.1 – 6.5 – 6.4, 6+), after notching a +1.6 in “Holiday” 2018/January 2019. If you are looking for consistency, consider iHeartMedia sports talk WBGG 970 AM – ESPN Pittsburgh” whose September 2018 through March 2019 topline is: .2 – .2 – .2 – .3 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2 (unchanged at #17, 6+).

Off one-tenth to 4.2 (6+), Essential Public Media news/talk WESA “90.5 Pittsburgh’s NPR Station” continues at #11.

Pittsburgh Music Formats – Not only does WDVE replicate February’s eight-tenths’ increase (7.6 – 8.4 – 9.2, 6+), the iHeartMedia-owned rocker repeats at #1. Its December loss of one-half share suspended three straight gains that netted a +1.0 (7.7 – 8.0 – 8.3 – 8.7, 6+). In “Holiday” 2018, WDVE tumbled by -1.0 (8.2 – 7.2, 6+). WDVE spent 11 successive sweeps in the runner-up slot before dropping to third in December. An uptick of one-half share to 7.4 (unchanged at #3, 6+) by Steel City Media adult hits WRRK “96.9 Bob FM” pulls the plug on three straight sweeps without an increase that resulted in a -1.8 (8.7 – 7.7 – 7.7 – 6.9, 6+). Frozen on 6.1 (6+) in January and February, iHeartMedia CHR WKST “96.1 Kiss FM Pittsburgh’s #1 Hit Music Station” sputters by six-tenths to 5.5 (6+) but remains in fifth-place. Co-owned alternative (and Pittsburgh Penguins flagship) WXDX “105.9 The X,” which had been up eight-tenths in January/February (4.0 – 4.4 – 4.8, 6+), surrenders one-half share to 4.3 (eighth to ninth, 6+). While it remains in seventh-place, Entercom hot AC WBZZ “Star 100.7” is off one-tenth to 4.8 (6+), thus ending at three a successive string of increases that led to a +1.2 (3.7 – 4.1 – 4.3 – 4.9, 6+); February’s 4.9 is its best 6+-number since July 2018 (4.9, as well). Unchanged at #12, Steel City Media’s similarly-programmed WLTJ “Q-92.9” is a combined +.5 in February/March (2.9 – 3.1 – 3.4, 6+).

Salt Lake City

Spoken-Word Formats – In three of the last four sweeps, Bonneville’s KSL has logged a 5.2 (5.2 – 4.6 – 5.2 – 5.2, 6+) but “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” sputters in March by seven-tenths to 4.5 (6+) and carries on at #6. KSL was -.6 in “Holiday” 2018 and +.6 in January, Four-tenths behind is iHeartMedia’s KNRS “Talk Radio 105.9 – Listen And You’ll Know,” which had been +1.8 in January/February (3.3 – 4.7 – 5.1, 6+), but plummets by -1.0 to 4.1 (seventh to eighth, 6+). KNRS eliminated “Holiday” 2018’s -1.4 with a January +1.4.

After posting an August 2018 – December 2018 topline of 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.8, Broadway Media-owned KALL lost seven-tenths in “Holiday” 2018 to 1.1 (#20 to #22, 6+); “ESPN 700 – Utah’s #1 Sports Talk” is unlisted for the third month in a row.

In February, KUER had its largest 6+-stat (3.1) since August 2018’s 3.5, but the University of Utah news/talk facility slips six-tenths to 2.5 (#12 to #14, 6+).

Salt Lake City Music Formats – Applying the brakes to January/February’s -14.4 (21.8 – 7.9 – 7.4, 6+), Bonneville adult contemporary KSFI “FM 100.3 – Better Music/Better Work Day” roars back with a +1.5 to 8.9 (6+) and is on top for the fifth consecutive ratings period. Three straight increases netted a +16.2 (5.6 – 5.7 – 12.7 – 21.8, 6+) for KSFI, the only PPM-market station in “Holiday” 2018 to reach the 20-share level (6+). Flashing gains of eight-tenths are co-owned KRSP “103.5 The Arrow,” which repeats in the runner-up slot, and independent KSOP-FM “Z-104 Utah’s #1 Country” (3.6 – 4.4, #11 to #7, 6+). “The Arrow” is now an overall +2.1 as a result of four consecutive increases (5.7 – 6.1 – 6.3 – 7.0 – 7.8, 6+), while “Z-104” has its highest 6+-stat (4.4) since November 2018’s 4.7. Owing to three straight positive spikes (4.4 – 6.4 – 6.8 – 7.3, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned classic hits-oldies KODJ “94.1 Salt Lake’s Greatest Hits” nets a +2.9 and remains in third-place. Three successive gains by Cumulus Media country KUBL yielded a +1.7 (3.1 – 3.4 – 4.3 – 4.8, 6+), but “K-Bull 93” erodes in March by -1.3 to 3.5 (eighth to tenth, 6+). Immediately prior to this particular streak, KUBL was an overall -2.8 via five consecutive decreases (5.9 – 5.7 – 4.2 – 4.0 – 3.8 – 3.1, 6+).

Las Vegas

Spoken-Word Formats – Without a decrease the third month in a row for a net gain of eight-tenths (1.6 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 2.4, 6+), Entercom’s KXNT “News Talk Radio 840” repeats at #15 with its best 6+-performance (2.4) in two years (2.8, February 2017). That figure more than doubles the 6+-stat of Beasley Media Group news/talk KDWN “AM 720 Where Las Vegas Comes to Talk,” which is off one-tenth (1.2 – 1.1, flat at #23, 6+).

In addition to being +1.1 in three straight improvements (3.0 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 4.1, 6+), Nevada Public Radio’s KNPR reenters the top ten (#11 to #7).

Las Vegas Music Formats – Recapturing the one-half share it squandered in February (5.5 – 5.0 – 5.5, 6+), Lotus Communications’ KXPT “97.1 The Point – #1 For Classic Rock” repeats at #4. In eight straight up or flat survey periods prior to February, “The Point” was an overall +1.8 (3.7 – 3.9 – 4.5 – 4.9 – 5.0 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 5.5, 6+) with 5.5 its best 6+-performance since October 2016 (5.9). Notching a gain of one-half share as well is Nevada Public Radio’s KCNV “Classical 89.7” (.5 – 1.0, #25, 6+), which reaches the one-share level (1.0, 6+) for the first time in nearly three years (1.1, July 2016). The 1.6-share advantage (6+) that Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies KKLZ “96.3 – Hits of the Eighties & More” held over iHeartMedia adult contemporary KSNE “Sunny 106.5 – Better Music for a Better Workday” in February is cut roughly in half as KKLZ (+1.2 in February) erodes by nine-tenths (8.3 – 7.4, 6+) while “Sunny” (-.8 in February) remains flat at 6.7 (6+). They repeat at #1 and #2, respectively. The 8.3 in February marked the first time KKLZ reached the eight-share level (6+) in its PPM-history; it hadn’t been at #1 since August 2018. A combined +4.5 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (8.3 – 9.1 – 12.8, 6+), “Sunny” is now -6.1 in three straight down or flat moves (12.8 – 7.5 – 6.7 – 6.7, 6+). Prior to being #1 from September through January 2019, “Sunny” set the pace in March, May, June, and July. Its “Holiday” 2018 12.8 is the highest 6+-share for any Las Vegas station since the 14.0 KSNE logged in “Holiday” 2016. Following five successive monthlies without a loss for a net gain of eight-tenths (3.1 – 3.2 – 3.3 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.9, 6+), Beasley Media Group’s KCYE has that streak curtailed with a one-half share dip to 3.4 (6+); “102.7 The Coyote – #1 For New Hit Country” departs the top ten (#10 to #12).

Orlando

Spoken-Word Formats – A combined +1.9 in January/February (3.6 – 5.1 – 5.5, 6+), following a December/“Holiday” 2018 -1.6  (5.2 – 4.5 – 3.6, 6+), Cox Media Group news/talk WDBO-FM “News 96.5” is off three-tenths to 5.2 (seventh to eighth, 6+). Up seven tenths in January/February (3.1 – 3.7 – 3.8, 6+), directly after five straight declines that resulted in a -1.6 (4.7 – 4.6 – 4.5 – 3.9 – 3.7 – 3.1, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WTKS “Real Radio 104.1 – We Say What We Want” forfeits one-tenth to 3.7 (#11 to #12, 6+). Completing the theme, news/talk cluster-mate WFLF, +1.0 in January/February (1.8 – 2.2 – 2.8, 6+), sheds three-tenths to 2.5 (#14 to #15). Its January gain of four-tenths suspended three successive decreases that accounted for a loss of nine-tenths (2.7 – 2.4 – 2.2 – 1.8, 6+).

In six consecutive down or flat trends (1.3 – 1.1 – .9 – .6 – .6 – .5 – .4, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WYGM lost roughly 70% (-.9) of its 6+ AQH share but “FM 96.9 The Game – Orlando’s Sports Leader” picks up one-tenth to .5 (flat at #22, 6+). For the second straight sweep, Cox Media Group sports talk WDBO-AM “ESPN 580 Orlando” has its 6+-stat carved in half (.8 – .4 – .2, #22 to #23, 6+).

In three straight positive moves (2.7 – 3.2 – 3.5 – 4.0, 6+), Community Communications’ news/talk WMFE “90.7 Public Radio for Central Florida” is a collective +1.3 and reaches the top ten (#12 to #8).

Orlando Music Formats – It took Entercom classic hits-oldies WOCL “105-9 Sunny FM – We Own The ‘80s” just three reports to build a mighty +3.3 (4.9 – 6.9 – 7.9 – 8.2, unchanged at #3, 6+). Immediately prior to this streak, “Sunny” was a cumulative -2.2 via four down or flat moves in succession (7.1 – 6.4 – 6.4 – 5.8 – 4.9, 6+). Steady in fourth-place, Cox Media Group urban AC WCFB “Star 94.5” rolls out a gain of eight-tenths (7.0 – 7.8, 6+). The combination of iHeartMedia CHR WXXL “XL-106.7 Orlando’s #1 Hit Music Station” gaining six-tenths and co-owned WRUM “Rumba 100” showing a decrease of that magnitude (9.5 – 8.9, -.6, 6+) results in “XL-106.7” shifting from second to first and “Rumba 100” segueing from first to second. This represents WXXL’s fourth improvement in a row for a +1.7 (7.3 – 7.4 – 8.1 – 8.4 – 9.0, 6+). Preceding its January/February +1.7 (7.8 – 9.3 – 9.5, 6+), Rumba was -1.1 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (8.9 – 8.3 – 7.8, 6+). The Spanish tropical outlet spent 11 consecutive ratings periods on top, before falling to #2 in December and “Holiday” 2018. April 2017’s 12.8 is the best-ever 6+-share in the station’s PPM-history. A one-half share boost to 2.6 (#15 to #14, 6+) by Entercom-owned WQMP “FM 101.9 Orlando’s New Alternative” fully clears out three straight (modest) declines (2.6 – 2.5 – 2.4 – 2.1, 6+). Erasing half of February’s +1.2 with a March loss of six-tenths (4.2 – 5.4 – 4.8, 6+), Cox Media Group rhythmic CHR WPYO slips from eighth to ninth; “Power 95.3 – Orlando’s New #1 For All The Hits” was off eight-tenths “Holiday” 2018/January 2019 (5.0 – 4.4 – 4.2, 6+). An overall -8.5 in three straight setbacks (14.3 – 6.9 – 5.9 – flat at #5, 5.8, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMGF “Magic 107.7” was a combined +8.5 December/“Holiday” 2018 (5.8 – 9.8 – 14.3, 6+). “Holiday” 2018’s 14.3 is its strongest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2017’s 15.9.

Cincinnati

Spoken-Word Formats – Recapturing the two-tenths it lost in February (9.9 – 9.7 – 9.9, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WLW continues in second-place, immediately after a one-month (January) stay at #1. The Reds’ flagship was –2.1 in “Holiday” 2018, followed by a +2.4 in January. Co-owned WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station in Cincinnati” regains the one-tenth it surrendered in February (3.5 – 3.4 – 3.5, 6+) but exits the top ten (tie at #10 to #11).

Still in that iHeartMedia cluster, sports talk WCKY “Cincinnati’s ESPN 1530” is off one-tenth (1.0 – .9, 6+), falling from #17 to #18.

A collective +1.1 via three consecutive gains (2.6 – 3.0 – 3.2 – 3.7, 6+), Cincinnati Public Radio news/talk WVXU cracks the top ten (#12 to #9). Immediately prior, it lost nine-tenths in five successive sweeps without an increase, (3.5 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 3.1 – 2.8 – 2.6, 6+).

Cincinnati Music Formats – Winning ways continue for Cumulus Media-owned classic hits-oldies WGRR, which is not only an impressive +3.0 in three successive upticks (8.1 – 9.6 – 10.2 – 11.1, 6+), “103.5 Cincinnati’s Greatest Hits” repeats at #1. Following a December-only stay at #1, WGRR eroded by -1.8 in “Holiday” 2018 (9.9 – 8.1, 6+) and shifted to third. Immediately prior to its -1.8, WGRR was an overall +1.3 via four straight gains (8.6 – 9.1 – 9.2 – 9.6 – 9.9, 6+). The three latest shifts for Hubbard-owned WUBE “B-105.1 Cincinnati’s Country” are +1.0 (January); -.7 (February); and -.8 in March (8.7 – 7.9, unchanged at #3, 6+). Co-owned hot AC WKRQ “Q-102 Cincinnati’s Hit Music” drops seven-tenths (6.4 – 5.7, 6+) but carries on in fifth-place. Immediately after plummeting by -8.2 (14.6 – 6.4, 6+), Cumulus Media adult contemporary WRRM answered with a February gain of four-tenths. “Warm 98,” however, relinquishes six-tenths in March (6.8 – 6.2, flat at #4, 6+). Owing to three straight increases, Radio One urban AC WOSL was +1.0 (2.5 – 2.6 – 3.1 – 3.6, 6+), but “100.3 R&B + Old School” falters by two-tenths to 3.4 (6+) and exits the top ten (#9 to #12). February’s 3.6 is its best 6+-number since 3.6 in March 2017. It has been an interesting November 2018 through March 2019 topline for Educational Community Radio-owned WOBO “The Station With Something For Everyone”: 1.1 – 0.2 – 0.0 – 1.3     – .9 – .4 (#19 to #24, 6+). Grant County Broadcasters’ WNKN “Classic Country 105.9 & 106.7,” which was an overall +.7 in three consecutive sweeps without a loss (1.9 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.6, 6+), forfeits four-tenths to 2.2 (6+) and remains at #15. WDBZ “Soul 101.5” registered a .9 (6+) in August 2018 to finish at #20, but the Radio One urban-rhythmic oldies outlet is unlisted for the eighth time in a row.

Cleveland

Spoken-Word Formats – After logging a January/February +1.3 (4.2 – 5.1 – 5.5, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WTAM “1100 Cleveland’s News Radio” returns roughly half that increase with a -.6 to 4.9 (flat at #8, 6+). Leading up to that, WTAM was an overall -2.6 in three straight declines (6.8 – 6.3 – 5.2 – 4.2, 6+).

Making up one-third of February’s -1.2 by notching a +.4 (5.4 – 4.2 – 4.6, 6+), Entercom’s WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” remains at #10.

Anchored at #13, Ideastream-owned news/talk outlet WCPN posts a 3.2 for the third month in a row; WCPN was +1.1 in January after “Holiday” 2018’s -1.1.

Cleveland Music Formats – The four most recent fluctuations by iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WMJI are +2.8 (“Holiday” 2018); -1.7 (January 2019); +.8 (February); and +1.0 in March (9.8 – 10.8, 6+). “Majic 105.7 – Cleveland’s Greatest Hits” is on top for the fourth sweep in succession. Tacking on nine-tenths to February’s +.8 (6.0 – 6.8 – 7.7, 6+), Entercom adult contemporary WDOK “Cleveland’s Star 102” continues in third-place. “Star” was a combined +4.7 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (5.6 – 8.2 – 10.3, 6+) but eroded by -4.3 in January. Co-owned WNCX “98.5 – Cleveland’s Classic Rock” was -.4 (“Holiday” 2018); +.8 (January 2019); -.5 (February) and is now +.6 (6.4 – 7.0, fifth to fourth, 6+). By gaining three-tenths to 3.9 (flat at #11, 6+), hot AC cluster-mate WQAL “Q-104 Plays The Hits” interrupts three successive negative moves that led to an overall -1.6 (5.2 – 4.7 – 4.3 – 3.6, 6+). Notwithstanding that it nets +2.4 in three improvements in a row (4.4 – 6.1 – 6.6 – 6.8, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WGAR “99.5 Cleveland’s #1 For New Country” backslides from fourth to fifth. WGAR had been a cumulative -3.7 through five consecutive losses (8.1 – 7.2 – 6.8 – 6.5 – 5.7 – 4.4, 6+). Following five straight up or flat reports for a net gain of six-tenths (1.6 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.2, 6+), Ideastream’s WCLV “Classical 104.9” has a setback of eight-tenths to 1.4 (#14 to #15, 6+). Resurfacing in print in October 2018, Salem Media Group contemporary Christian WFHM trended 5.4 – 4.2 – 4.3 – 5.4 (#7, 6+), but “95.5 The Fish” is unlisted for the third straight month.

Kansas City

Spoken-Word Formats – Steady at #4, KMBZ-FM “98.1 News-Traffic-Weather” is off two-tenths to 5.4 (6+). The Entercom news/talker was a +2.2 in January/February (3.4 – 4.6 – 5.6, 6+), following a -1.7 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (5.1 – 4.0 – 3.4, 6+). On the heels of January/February’s +.9 (1.3 – 1.9 – 2.2, 6+), co-owned KMBZ-AM drops two-tenths to 2.0 (#18 to #19, 6+). “Talk 980” lost half (-1.3) its 6+ AQH share in December/“Holiday” 2018 (2.6 – 1.8 – 1.3, 6+). In February, Cumulus Media’s KCMO-AM doubled January’s .7 (1.4, +.7, 6+); “Talk Radio 710 AM” repeats that 1.4 (6+) and advances from #22 o #21.

Leveling off at 3.8 (6+) after February’s -1.2 (5.0 – 3.8, 6+), Union Broadcasting’s WHB “Sports Radio 810” slips from #11 to #12. A combined -.5 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (4.2 – 3.8 – 3.7, 6+), WHB erupted in January with a +1.3. Meanwhile, Entercom’s KCSP regains all but one-tenth of February’s loss of six-tenths (2.3 – 2.8, +.5, #17 to #16, 6+). In three consecutive decreases, “610 Sports Radio” faltered by nine-tenths (3.5 – 3.2 – 3.1 – 2.6, 6+) but was up three-tenths in January.

As a result of three straight gains (3.0 – 3.4 – 3.7 – 3.9, 6+), University of Missouri news/talk KCUR nets nine-tenths, more than compensating for the -.7 logged in “Holiday” 2018.

Kansas City Music Formats – There is another significant monthly shift for Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies KCMO-FM, which has been +1.6 (“Holiday” 2018); -1.3 (January 2019); +1.2 (February); and is +1.1 in March (6.6 – 7.7, 6+). There is a bonus for “94.9 Kansas City’s Greatest Hits,” as it progresses from third to first. Picking up one-tenth in December curtailed eight successive March through November declines that accounted for an overall -3.1 (8.1 – 7.7 – 7.2 – 7.1 – 6.8 – 6.4 – 6.3 – 5.4 – 5.0, 6+); KCMO-FM was #1 in March 2018, April, and May. Departing the top spot after ten consecutive sweeps there is cluster-mate KCFX “101 The Fox – Kansas City’s Classic Rock Station,” which erodes by -2.8 in February/March (10.1 – 8.2 – 7.3, first to second, 6+). January’s 10.1 is its strongest 6+-stat since July 2017’s 10.3. December’s seven-tenths’ decrease by the Kansas City Chiefs’ flagship halted six straight positive or flat sweeps that yielded an overall +2.7 (7.0 – 7.2 – 7.2 – 7.8 – 8.8 – 9.6 – 9.7, 6+). Still in that Cumulus Media cluster, urban AC KMJK “Magic 107.3 – Kansas City’s Best Mix of R&B” responds to February’s -.8 with a +.6 (4.2 – 3.4 – 4.0, 6+) and is back in the top ten (#14 to #10). “Magic,” which was +2.0 in four consecutive gains (2.7 – 2.8 – 3.4 – 4.4 – 4.7, 6+), lost one-half share in January. Trending 4.2 – 3.9 – 4.1 (“Holiday” 2018 – January 2019 – February, 6+), Entercom country outlet WDAF “106.5 The Wolf” sputters by eight-tenths to 3.3 (6+) and drifts out of the top ten (#9 to #14, 6+). Cumulus Media adult hits KCMO-HD2, which was +.5 in three straight (modest) gains (1.2 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.7, 6+) returns that increase in its entirety (1.2, -.5, #22, 6+). Four upticks in a row by Carter Broadcast Group urban contemporary KPRS “Hot 103 Jamz” accounted for a +1.5 (5.4 – 5.7 – 5.8 – 6.2 – 6.9, 6+), but “Hot 103” forfeits three-tenths to 6.6 (6+) and segues from second to third. February’s 6.9 is its highest 6+share since July 2018’s 7.1. Through five consecutive positive or flat moves (3.1 – 3.2 – 3.7 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.5, 6+), Cumulus Media CHR KCHZ was +1.4 but “95.7 The Vibe – All The Hits” is now a collective -1.5 via three successive downturns (4.5 – 3.8 – 3.1 – 3.0, flat at #15, 6+).

Columbus

Spoken-Word Formats – Unchanged at #5, iHeartMedia news/talk WTVN is -1.5 in February/March (7.0 – 5.9 – 5.5, 6+); “News Radio 610” was +1.3 in January (5.7 – 7.0, 6+).

This is the third time in a row that RadiOhio sports talk outlet WBNS-FM “Sports Radio 97.1 The Fan” is unlisted. Among fluctuations for the Columbus Blue Jackets flagship since reappearing in print in August 2018 are: +1.1 (October); -.4 (November); +1.0 (December); and -2.0 in “Holiday” 2018 (7.3 – 5.3, seventh, 6+).

While it returns the two-tenths it scored in February (4.5 – 4.7 – 4.5, 6+), Ohio State University news/talk WOSU continues in sixth-place; WOSU was +1.1 in January.

Columbus Music Formats – On a roll, Saga Communications’ WLVQ “Iconic Rock Q-FM 96” logs its third increase in succession for a +1.9 (6.8 – 7.2 – 8.1 – 8.7, 6+) and repeats at #2. Locked on 7.8 (6+) in January and February, co-owned adult contemporary WSNY “Sunny 95” posts a +.2 to 8.0 (fourth to third, 6+). Hot AC cluster-mate WVMX “Mix 107.9” is without a loss the fourth report in a row for a net increase of three-tenths (2.2 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 2.5, unchanged at #12, 6+). Four straight gains by classic hits-oldies sibling WNND nearly doubled (+1.2) its 6+-stat (1.3 – 1.4 – 1.8 – 2.1 – 2.5, 6+) but “Rewind” surrenders three-tenths to 2.2 (6+), falling from #12 to #13. Albeit off three-tenths (12.1 – 11.8, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WCOL “92.3 Columbus’ #1 For New Country” is #1 for the 16^th sweep in a row and has been in double-digits (6+) each ratings period since June 2017. Its January +.8 halted six straight setbacks that resulted in a collective -5.7 (16.3 – 15.1 – 15.0 – 14.5 – 13.0 – 12.7 – 10.6, 6+). Recent WCOL fluctuations include +3.1 (January 2018); -1.7 (February); +1.1 (March); +1.0 (April); +1.2 (June); +.6 (July); 1.2 (August); -.5 (October); -1.5 (November); -2.1 (“Holiday” 2018); +.8 (January 2019); and +.7 (February). Two especially long (positive) streaks continue. More than tripling (+1.3) its 6+-figure, Radio One gospel WJYD “Joy 107.1” hasn’t had a loss in nine straight sweeps (.5 – .8 – .8 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.2 – 1.4 – 1.6 – 1.8, 6+) and is steady at #14. Meanwhile, Ohio State University’s WOSA “Classical 101” doubles (+.5) its 6+ AQH share in five consecutive up or flat moves (.5 – .9 – .9 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.0, tie at #15 to #16, 6+). Immediately after recording a February improvement of seven-tenths, One Connection Media Group contemporary Christian WCVO “104.9 The River” surrenders that increase in its entirety (3.3 – 4.0 – 3.3, 6+) but remains in eighth-place. February’s 4.0 is its best 6+-stat since October 2018’s 4.1. In addition to having its consecutive string of positive spikes which netted eight-tenths end at three (2.3 – 2.4 – 2.8 – 3.1, 6+), Radio One urban AC WXMG “Magic 95.5” (2.8, -.3, 6+) leaves the top ten (#9 to #11).

Thursday, April 18, 2019

Radio News and Talk Pro Brad Messer Dies After Illness.  Former KMET, Los Angeles news director and former KTSA, San Antonio talk show host Brad Messer has died after a long illness.  LARadio.com reports on Messer’s death, noting that he worked for 47 years in radio in markets including Houston, Dallas, San Francisco, and San Diego as well.  While at KTSA, Messer was regularly honored on TALKERS magazine’s “The 100 Most Important Radio Talk Hosts” annual list and was the ONLY person in the history of the list who came to us and requested that he no longer appear on the list so that his space could be used for a young-up-and-comer!  TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison says, “Brad Messer was the quintessential radio newsperson of the modern era, the greatest of his generation – not to mention a superb talk show host – and one of the finest human beings I have had the privilege of knowing in the broadcasting business over these past 52 years.”

‘Godfather of Sports’ Chet Coppock Dies at 70 After Car Accident. Numerous Chicago news outlets are reporting the death of Chicago sports media legend Chet Coppock.  WLS-TV is reporting that Coppock passed away yesterday (4/17) from injuries suffered in an auto accident near Hilton Head, South Carolina on April 11.  During his career, the Chicagoland native worked in television, radio, and print in Chicago as well as New York and Indianapolis.  Windy City media writer Robert Feder notes that Coppock “was a top sports anchor at NBC-owned WMAQ-Channel 5 in the 1980s.  He segued to radio where he became known as the ‘Godfather of Sports Talk Radio.’ His colorful career included stints as an announcer for the Roller Derby and World Wrestling Federation.”  Coppock left his TV gig in 1984 to join WMAQ-AM to host his interview-driven sports talk show.  In 1988, he transitioned to WLUP-FM.  Read his official bio here.

iHeartMedia Names Jeff Cage to Region SVP of Programming Position. Programmer Jeff Cage is promoted to region SVP of programming for iHeartMedia’s St. Louis Region that includes more than 33 stations in Missouri and Iowa, including legendary Des Moines news/talk outlet WHO-AM.  comprised of music, talk and news formats.  Cage is now responsible for spearheading programming, promotions, and digital strategies for radio brands in St. Louis and Springfield, Missouri as well as Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Davenport, Iowa. He’ll also serve as SVP of programming for the Des Moines market and program director for CHR KKDM-FM “107.5 KISS FM.”  Cage arrives from iHeartMedia Little Rock where he spent 15 years and recently served as the program director for CHR KHKN “HOT 94.9” and rock KDJE “100.3 The Edge.”

Portland’s ‘860 The Answer’ Debuts New Weekend Shows. KPAM, Portland “860 The Answer” announces the addition of three new weekend programs to its lineup.  Two food-oriented, one-hour shows are airing back-to-back on Saturdays – “BBQ Nation” and “Grilling at the Green” – both hosted by renowned food expert and television personality Jeff Tracy.  “BBQ Nation” delves into all things barbeque while “Grilling at the Green” explores the ways many people live the golfing lifestyle via the stories, lives, and kitchens of those who love and live the sport.  Also airing on Saturdays is the new, two-hour “Around the House with Eric G.” starring Portland radio personality and home improvement expert Eric Goranson.  KPAM is operated by Salem Media Group.

TALKERS News Notes. Chicago all-news outlet WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM “Newsradio 780 and 105.9 FM” is honored with nine 2018 Illinois Associated Press Broadcasters Association Contest awards.  They were bestowed at the Spring Convention of the Illinois News Broadcasters Association in Normal on April 13.  The Entercom station was honored for: Outstanding News Operation; Best Spot News – First Place for “No Mercy”; Best Spot News – Second Place for “The Jason Van Dyke Verdict”; Best Sports Report – Second Place, George Ofman for “Rocky Wirtz”; Best Hard News Feature – First Place, Mike Krauser for “Cat Rescue”; Best Digital Presence – First Place; Best Newswriter – First Place, Mark Friedman; Best Reporter – Second Place, Lisa Fielding; and Best Newscast – First Place…..iHeartMedia Pittsburgh announces it has extended its broadcast agreement with the Pittsburgh Steelers through the 2023 NFL season.  The Steelers Radio Network is originating from rock WDVE and sports talk WBGG- 970 AM & 106.3 FM, with additional promotional support across all six iHeartMedia Pittsburgh stations and websites.  The partnership also includes Steelers Nation Radio, broadcasting 24 hours of Steelers programming on WDVE-HD2, iHeartRadio, Steelers.com, and the Steelers Official Mobile App.  The station will debut several new Steelers programs, including the “The Point After” – a weekly wrap-up program featuring the Steelers radio broadcast team, as well as “The Steelers Preview Show” airing on Thursday nights.

Release of Mueller Report, Southern Border Crisis/Barr’s No Bail for Asylum Seekers, 2020 Presidential Politics, Search for Columbine-Infatuated Teen, North Korea Weapons Test, Notre Dame Fire, NBA Playoffs, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (4/17). The anticipation of today’s release of the redacted version of the Mueller Report; the migrant situation at the Southern border and Attorney General William Barr’s no bail for asylum seekers decision; the Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020 and Trump’s criticism of CNN’s Town Hall with Bernie Sanders; the end of the search for the armed, Columbine-infatuated teenager; North Korea resumes weapons testing; the aftermath of the Notre Dame fire; the NBA playoffs; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Signing a new contract with Beasley Media Group’s classic rock WMGK, Philadelphia is afternoon drive personality Andre Gardner.  He is celebrating his 17^th anniversary with the station this month.  WMGK program director and company rock format brand manager Bill Weston says, “Andre Gardner is king of the DJ hill in Philly.  No one brings more passion or runs a tighter board with a pervasive knowledge of music. WMGK has benefited from his talents for 17 years.  I am so happy we’re continuing Andre’s nearly two-decade run of success.”

March 2019 PPM Data – Round Two. March 2019 ratings information has been released for Washington (D.C.), Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis. Nielsen Audio’s March 2019 survey period covered February 28 – March 27. See all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” from all 12 of these PPM-markets below.

Washington, DC

Spoken-Word Formats – For the third month in a row, WMAL sets a record for its best 6+-stat (6.8) in the PPM-era and continues in fourth-place. Moreover, the Cumulus Media news/talk outlet is a collective +2.5 via three straight upticks (4.3 – 5.7 – 6.6 – 6.8, 6+). After posting a .2 (6+) in August 2018, Radio One’s WOL “News Talk – Where Information Is Power” is unlisted for the eighth sweep in succession.

Regaining the one-tenth it lost in February (3.1 – 3.0 – 3.1, 6+), Entercom sports talk WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” carries on as part of a three-way tie at #13. Its “Holiday” 2018 increase of two-tenths followed four consecutive down or flat trends that accounted for a collective loss of seven-tenths (3.7 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.3 – 3.0, 6+). By gaining two-tenths to .7 (#25 to #23, 6+), Radio One’s similarly-formatted WTEM “980 The Team” concludes at three a consecutive string of setbacks that accounted for a loss of four-tenths (.9 – .8 – .6 – .5, 6+).

While off a combined seven-tenths in February/March (10.4 – 9.8 – 9.7, 6+), Hubbard all-news WTOP is #1 for the third month in a row. January 2019’s 10.4 is its best 6+-performance since March 2018 (10.4, as well). Having set the pace 11 straight ratings periods, WTOP segued to the runner-up slot in December. Even though Entercom business news outlet WDCH is flat at .4 (6+), it climbs from #27 to #25.

Entering the March sweep, American University-owned news/talk WAMU was -2.2 (“Holiday” 2018); +2.5 (January 2019); and -1.2 in February. “The Mind Is Our Medium” gains three-tenths in March (8.6 – 8.9, 6+) and is unchanged in second-place. Immediately prior to “Holiday” 2018, WAMU was an overall +1.9 via five straight increases (7.6 – 8.0 – 8.2 – 8.3 – 9.0 – 9.5, 6+).

Washington, DC Music Formats – Through six straight spikes (6.4 – 6.7 – 6.8 – 7.4 – 7.5 – 7.9 – 8.2, 6+), Radio One-owned urban AC WMMJ “Majic” is an overall +1.8 and is in third-place for the fourth time in a row. Format rival – Howard University’s WHUR – repeats at #5 but drops one-tenth to 6.4 (6+), thus curtailing three successive upticks that netted a +1.2 (5.3 – 6.2 – 6.4 – 6.5, 6+). An overall -1.4 through four straight September 2018 through “Holiday” 2018 declines (4.9 – 4.5 – 4.0 – 3.8 – 3.5, 6+), Atlantic Gateway Communications’ contemporary Christian WGTS “91.9 Christian Music Radio” bounces back with three straight improvements netting a +1.1 (3.5 – 3.6 – 3.9 – 4.6, eighth to sixth, 6+). After being a combined +5.6 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (4.8 – 7.3 – 10.4, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary WASH “97.1 Washington’s Variety of the ‘80s ‘90s and Today” sputtered by -6.1 (January); rebounded with a +.7 (February); but regresses by -.6 in March (5.0 – 4.4, sixth to seventh, 6+). Surrendering in its entirety February’s +.6 with a March -.6 (3.5 – 4.1 – 3.5, 6+), Cumulus Media hot AC WRQX slips from seventh to ninth. “Mix 107.3” was a collective -1.3 through three consecutive losses (4.8 – 4.0 – 3.8 – 3.5, 6+). The sale of WRQX to Educational Media Foundation is expected to close later this year and the station will flip to contemporary Christian. In addition to WASH and WRQX, iHeartMedia-owned WBIG “Big 100 – Washington’s Classic Rock Station” falters by six-tenths as well (3.9 – 3.3, 6+) and departs the top ten (#8 to #11). Steady at #8 after February’s +.8, Radio One urban contemporary WKYS (3.9 – 3.8, -.1, 6+), is within three-share range (6+) for the 24^th straight time. The last time WKYS wasn’t between 3.0 – 3.9 (6+) was in May 2017 (2.9.

Boston

Spoken-Word Formats – A gain of two-tenths elevates iHeartMedia news/talk WRKO from #17 to #14. In three straight positive or flat trends, “AM 680 – The Voice of Boston” is up three-tenths (2.1 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.4, 6+); November 2018’s 3.2 is its best 6+-stat in more than four years (3.3, November 2014).

The key station of the Super Bowl champion New England Patriots, as well as the Celtics and Bruins, Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub,” is unchanged from February in 6+ share (6.4) and market rank (#3). “The Sports Hub” previously was +.4 (September 2018); +.9 (October); +.8 (November); -1.0 (December); +.5 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.6 (January 2019); and -.8 (February). Meanwhile, Entercom-owned WEEI-FM has been -.5 (September 2018); +.5 (October); +.6 (November); -2.0 (December); -.7 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.7 (January 2019); -1.0 (February); and now -.5 in March (3.7 – 3.2, 6+). The flagship of the 2018 World Series champion Boston Red Sox departs the top ten (#9 to #11).

A combined +1.3 in January/February (4.3 – 5.5 – 5.6, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned news-talk hybrid WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” relinquishes half (-.6) that increase in March (5.0, fifth to sixth, 6+).

The rollercoaster ride continues for Boston University news/talker WBUR, which was -1.5 through five consecutive down or flat August through “Holiday” 2018 ratings periods (5.7 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 5.1 – 4.2, 6+); +1.5 (January); and now -1.6 in February/March (5.7 – 4.6 – 4.1, seventh to eighth, 6+). Off by one-half share in March as well is WGBH Educational Foundation news/talk WGBH (2.7 – 2.2, #15 to #18, 6+).

Boston Music Formats – Not only is Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies WROR an overall +2.2 through three positive spikes in succession (5.6 – 6.2 – 6.8 – 7.8, 6+), “105.7 – 80s & More” advances from second to first. Ousted from the top spot after January and February stays there is iHeartMedia mainstream CHR WXKS-FM “Kiss 108 – Boston’s #1 Hit Music Station,” which returns February’s +.1 (7.3 – 7.4 – 7.3, first to second, 6+). February’s 7.4 is the highest 6+-showing since August 2018’s 7.8 for “Kiss,” which was #1 from January 2018 through November 2018. Within 3.0 – 3.8 (6+) range in each of the last eight survey periods (3.0 – 3.2 – 3.6 – 3.8 – 3.6 – 3.4 – 3.6 – 3.2), Beasley Media Group rhythmic hot AC WBQT busts out a +.8 to 4.0, its highest 6+-share since July 2018’s 4.1 as “Hot 96.9” enters the top ten (#13 to #9). Frozen on 5.3 (6+) in “Holiday” 2018, January 2019, and February 2019 following December’s 6.0 (6+), iHeartMedia-owned WZLX “100.7 Boston’s Classic Rock” dials up a March +.7 and is back at 6.0 (sixth to fifth, 6+). Co-owned WBWL “101.7 The Bull Boston’s #1 For New Hit Country,” is up one-tenth to 1.9 (#18 to #20, 6+), pulling the plug on four straight sweeps without an increase for a -.3 (2.1 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.8, 6+). Its format foe – Beasley Media Group’s WKLB “Country 102.5” – nets seven-tenths in three consecutive gains (3.5 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 4.2, 6+) and jumps from ninth to seventh. January’s +.1 ended seven successive down or flat reports that accounted for a combined loss of -1.2 (4.7 – 4.5 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.5, 6+). Improving by one-half share in March as well is Northeast Broadcasting triple A WXRV “Independent Radio 92.5 The River” (1.8 – 2.3, #18 to #16, 6+), which reaches the two-share level (6+) for the first time since May 2018’s 2.0. On the heels of posting a February gain of one-half share, iHeartMedia urban AC WKAF “97.7 Boston’s #1 For R&B” surrenders eight-tenths (3.4 – 2.6, #11 to #13, 6+). February’s 3.4 is its best 6+-performance since appearing in print in January 2017. Off by one-half share (each) are Beasley Media Group’s WBOS (2.8, flat at #12, 6+) and iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR WJMN “Jam’n 94.5” (2.8 – 2.3, #14 to #16, 6+). After being “Alt 92.9 Boston’s Alternative,” WBOS became “Boston’s Rock 92.9” last Thursday (4/11). The station was a collective +1.0 in January/February (2.3 – 2.7 – 3.3, 6+) and reached the three-share level (6+) for the first time since August 2016.

Miami

English-Language Spoken-Word Formats – Locked on 2.4 (6+) in January and February, iHeartMedia news/talk WIOD adds one-tenth to 2.5 (#19 to #18, 6+). “News Radio 620 – Miami’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station” was a combined -.3 in December/“Holiday” 2018 but recaptured two-tenths in January.

Tied at #27 are Entercom’s WAXY “Sports Talk 790 The Ticket” (flat at .7, #26 to #27, 6+) and co-owned WQAM “Sports Radio 560” (.5 – .7, +.2, #29 to #27, 6+). Before picking up one-tenth in February, “The Ticket” was down or flat three successive reports for a loss of three-tenths (.9 – .6 – .6 – .6, 6+). By gaining two-tenths in March, WQAM halts three consecutive sweeps without an increase that led to a loss of four-tenths (.9 – .9 – .6 – .5, 6+).

Following January’s seven-tenths’ improvement, Dade County School Board news/talk WLRN lost two-tenths in February but regains one-tenth (2.3 – 2.1 – 2.2, flat at #20, 6+).

Miami Music Formats – Powered by an increase of eight-tenths – completely erasing its February decline of that magnitude (7.4 – 6.6 – 7.4, 6) – Cox Media Group-owned WFEZ “Easy 93.1” breaks February’s three-way logjam at #1 and has sole bragging rights of the top spot. Dislodged from their share of the lead are co-owned urban AC WHQT “Hot 105” (-.2, first to second, 6+) and Entercom adult contemporary WLYF “101.5 Lite FM” (6.6 – 6.2, -.4, first to third, 6+). Entering the “Holiday” 2018 sweep, “Easy 93.1” finished on top seven straight times. Adult contemporary outlets “Easy” and “Lite” traded places with each other in January, as WFEZ went from second to first and WLYF segued from first to second. An overall +1.9 through three positive spikes in succession (5.4 – 5.7 – 6.2 – 7.3, 6+), “Lite FM” notched its best 6+-stat (7.3 in “Holiday” 2018) since January 2018’s 7.4. Thus, for the 11^th straight ratings period, an adult contemporary controls or has a share of Miami’s lead position (6+). February marked the first time at #1 for “Hot” since May 2018, when it logged a 7.5 (6+). It currently is in an alternating up/down pattern that began in August 2018: 6.1 – 6.2 – 5.6 – 6.0 – 5.9 – 6.5 – 6.4 – 6.6 – 6.4 (6+). One of the market’s mainstream CHRs gains one-tenth while the other drops one-tenth; the two rivals are separated by three-tenths of a share (6+). Specifically, iHeartMedia-owned WHYI “Y-100 Miami’s #1 Hit Music Station,” which was without an increase the past five sweeps for a collective loss of nine-tenths (3.4 – 3.3 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.5, 6+) applies the brakes with a +.1 to 2.6 (unchanged at #17, 6+), while Cox Media Group’s WFLC “Hits 97.3” is -.1 to 2.9 (flat at #14, 6+). Prior to slipping to 2.9 (6+) in March, WFLC had been within 3.0 – 3.7 range (6+) in each of the last 15 survey periods. In the market’s urban contemporary contest, Cox Media Group’s WEDR “99 Jamz” has a “Holiday” 2018 through March 2019 topline of 4.5 – 5.2 – 4.7 – 4.5 (6+) and remains in ninth-place, while iHeartMedia-owned WMIB “103.5 The Beat” regains the two-tenths it lost in February (2.9 – 2.7 – 2.9, #16 to #14, 6+).

Seattle

Spoken-Word Formats – There are three parallel stories among this market’s news/talk outlets. After its January/February combined +1.0 (4.9 – 5.6 – 5.9, 6+), Bonneville news/talk KIRO-FM plunges by -1.1 to 4.8 (third to fourth, 6+). In a similar vein, co-owned KTTH “Conservative Talk Radio” erases a January/February increase of six-tenths (1.5 – 1.9 – 2.1, 6+) with a March decrease of seven-tenths (1.4, #21 to #22, 6+); a December/“Holiday” 2018 mini-slide resulted in slicing in half (-1.5) its 6+-share (3.0 – 2.1 – 1.5, 6+). Meanwhile, Sinclair Broadcast Group-owned KVI “Talk Radio 570,” which wiped away its December/“Holiday” 2018 loss of four-tenths (1.3 – 1.2 – .9, 6+) with a January/February +.7 (.9 – 1.4 – 1.6, 6+), forfeits three-tenths to 1.3 (#23 to #24, 6+).

With a more positive story, Bonneville’s KIRO-AM “ESPN 710,” down roughly 50% (-2.0) in four consecutive declines (4.1 – 3.9 – 3.8 – 3.0 – 2.1, 6+), answers by making up 40% of that deficit with a +.8 to 2.9 (6+) as the Mariners’ flagship returns to the top twenty (#21 to #17). Regaining two-thirds of February’s -.6 (1.0 – 1.4, +.4, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KJR-AM progresses from #24 to #22. “Seattle’s Sports Radio 950” was down a collective four-tenths in December/“Holiday” 2018 (1.4 – 1.3 – 1.0, 6+), following four consecutive up or flat sweeps that nearly tripled (+.9) its 6+ AQH share (.5 – .7 – .9 – 1.4 – 1.4, 6+).

Albeit flat at #15, Sinclair Broadcast Group all-news KOMO is up seven-tenths (2.4 – 2.4 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 3.1, 6+) in four straight reports without a loss.

A combined +2.1 in January/February (5.9 – 7.4 – 8.0, 6+), Northwest Public Radio news/talk KUOW hands over roughly half that increase (8.0 – 6.9, -1.1, 6+) but is #1 for the third month in a row. In the runner-up slot in December and “Holiday” 2018, KUOW was on top in September 2018.

Seattle Music Formats – Within 2.2 – 2.9 range (6+) from October 2018 through February 2019 (2.2 – 2.3 – 2.9 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.3, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR KBKS “106.1 Kiss FM” erupts with a gain of nine tenths to 3.2 (#19 to #14), its strongest 6+-showing since September 2018 (3.2, as well). A collective +1.1 in four straight upticks (3.7 – 3.9 – 4.4 – 4.5 – 4.8, 6+), co-owned KZOK advances from fifth to fourth. Immediately in advance of this streak, “102.5 Seattle’s Classic Rock Station” was -1.6 in four consecutive sweeps without an increase (5.3 – 5.1 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 3.7, 6+). After surrendering a combined January/February -7.2 (11.2 – 4.8 – 4.0, 6+), Hubbard adult contemporary KRWM “Warm 106.9” rebounds with a gain of eight-tenths to 4.8 (6+), leaping from ninth to fourth. Entering the January sweep, “Warm” more than tripled (+7.8) its 6+-share as the result of three straight improvements (3.4 – 4.1 – 8.8 – 11.2, 6+) and was #1 in December and “Holiday” 2018. Four-tenths ahead of “Warm” is Entercom adult contemporary KSWD “94.1 The Sound,” which is an overall +1.5 via three consecutive positive spikes (3.7 – 3.8 – 5.1 – 5.2, fourth to third, 6+). September 2018 marked the first time that “The Sound” overtook “Warm” since KSWD’s format shift from country (KMPS) approximately 16 months ago. As the result of six successive months (May 2018 through November 2018) without a loss (3.3 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.8 – 4.2 – 4.9 – 5.0, 6+), KSWD was +1.7. The June 2018 through February 2019 topline for iHeartMedia adult hits KJAQ has remained in 3.3 – 3.9 (6+) territory, but “96.5 Jack FM Playing What We Want” logs a March increase of six-tenths to 4.0, its best 6+-stat since May 2018 (4.0, as well). Furthermore, Seattle’s version of “Jack” cracks the top ten (#13 to #10). Owing to four successive sweeps without a loss (2.1 – 2.1 – 2.4 – 2.8 – 3.3, 6+), Hubbard’s KNUC is a collective +1.2 as “New Country 98.9 The Bull” jumps from #17 to #12. A dip of eight-tenths (3.5 – 2.7, 6+) plummets KNKX “Your Connection To Jazz, Blues, and NPR News” from #12 to #18. Not only is Sinclair Broadcast Group hot AC KPLZ off by -2.0 in three straight downturns (5.1 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.1, #11 to #15, 6+), “Star 101.5 Today’s Best Mix” has its lowest 6+-stat (3.1) since May 2017’s 3.0. Following February’s +.9, Classic Radio, Inc.-owned KING “98.1 Listener-Supported Classical Music” returns roughly half that increase and departs the top twenty (2.9 – 2.4, -.5, #16 to #21, 6+). Its October 2018 through January 2019 topline was a consistent 2.2 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.0 – 2.0 (6+).

Detroit

Spoken-Word Formats – Following January’s increase of seven-tenths, Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760” lost two-tenths in February and is flat in March (3.7 – 3.5 – 3.5, 6+), backsliding from #13 to #14.

Unchanged as well in 6+-share is Entercom sports talk WXYT-FM“97.1 The Ticket,” which repeats February’s 5.0 and eighth-place finish (6+). The Pistons, Red Wings, and Tigers flagship was -1.3 in “Holiday” 2018 and +.6 in January 2019.

In an odd turn-of-events, co-owned WWJ was a combined +1.6 in January/February (6.1 – 7.5 – 7.7, 6+), yet had to segue from first to second whereas in March, its loss of eight-tenths to 6.9 (6+) is sufficient to boost “News Radio 950” from second to first.

This marks the third sweep in a row that Michigan Public Media news/talk WUOM makes a fluctuation of three-tenths (1.6 – 1.9 – 1.6 – 1.3, #19 to #21, 6+). Despite being down one-tenth (1.5 – 1.4, 6+), Wayne State University news/talk WDET advances from #21 to #20.

Detroit Music Formats – It’s big news that the familiar WLLZ call letters from the 1980s and 1990s resurface in the Motor City. This time, it is at iHeartMedia where alternative WDTW “Alt 106.7” became classic rock WLLZ “106.7 Detroit’s Wheels” last month. In its first monthly report, “Wheels” more than doubles (+1.9) the 6+-share on that frequency this time last month (1.5 – 3.4, 6+), popping on at #15, compared to WDTW’s February #21. The station it is targeting – Beasley Media Group-owned WCSX “94.7 – Detroit’s Classic Rock” – sputters by -1.3 (7.8 – 6.5, 6+) and shifts from first to second. That spiral follows back-to-back spikes of nine-tenths (6.0 – 6.9 – 7.8, 6+). January’s +.9 erased half of December/“Holiday” 2018’s -1.8 (7.8 – 6.6 – 6.0, 6+). WCSX spent four straight months at #1 before being dislodged in September by Entercom classic hits-oldies WOMC “104.3 Detroit’s Greatest Hits.” Flat at #6, the latter is a combined +.8 in three consecutive sweeps without a loss (4.6 – 4.8 – 5.4 – 5.4, 6+). Albeit unchanged at #12, WOMC’s adult contemporary sibling WDZH “98.7 The Breeze” logs its fifth successive report without a loss for an overall +1.7 (2.3 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 2.9 – 3.6 – 4.0, 6+). WDZH transitioned from CHR “Amp Radio” to adult contemporary “The Breeze” in early-November (2018). Incumbent AC, iHeartMedia’s WNIC “The Best Variety of the ‘80s, ‘90s, & Today,” has spiraled by -11.7 over the past three sweeps (17.9 – 7.1 – 6.6 – 6.2, 6+) yet remains at #3. Its 17.9 in “Holiday” 2018 is by far the largest 6+ AQH share by any Detroit station in the PPM-era. Via four straight increases, WNIC more than tripled (+12.2) its 6+-share (5.7 – 6.2 – 6.6 – 12.2 – 17.9, 6+) and was #1 in December 2018 and “Holiday” 2018. Locked on 3.2 (6+) in January and February after “Holiday” 2018’s 3.6 (6+), urban contemporary cluster-mate WJLB “97.9 Detroit’s Hip-Hop and R&B” explodes with a +.9 to 4.1 (#14 to #11, 6+), its best 6+-showing since 4.4 in September 2017. Trending 5.4 – 5.6 – 5.5 (6+), co-owned urban AC WMXD “Mix 92.3 Detroit’s R&B and Throwbacks” adds one-half share to 6.0 (fifth to fourth, 6+). After Entercom-owned WYCD “99.5 – Detroit Country Music” and Cumulus Media’s similarly-formatted WDRQ “93.1 Nash FM” each regressed by six-tenths in February, the former is up four-tenths (4.7 – 5.1, ninth to seventh, 6+) and the latter gains three-tenths (1.6 – 1.9, steady at #19, 6+). Faltering by -1.0 (5.9 – 4.9, 6+), Beasley Media Group’s WRIF “Rocks Detroit” drifts from fourth to ninth. Up nine-tenths in January/February (1.8 – 2.5 – 2.7, 6+), Detroit Classical & Jazz Educational Radio’s WRCJ “90.9 Classical Days/Jazzy Nights” surrenders seven-tenths to 2.0 (#17 to #18, 6+).

Phoenix

Spoken-Word Formats – Stuck on 3.4 (6+) in January and February, Bonneville news/talk KTAR-FM dials up a +.7 to 4.1 (6+) and vaults back into the top ten (#11 to #8). Despite dropping three-tenths (2.9 – 2.6, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550 carries on at #18.

After relinquishing two-tenths in February (2.2 – 2.0, 6+), Bonneville sports talk/Phoenix Suns, Arizona Coyotes, and Arizona Diamondbacks flagship KMVP-FM “98.7 Arizona Sports” posts a gain of three-tenths to 2.3 (6+) and continues at #22.

A combined +1.1 in January/February (2.5 – 3.2 – 3.6, 6+), Maricopa County Community College news/talk KJZZ is off one-tenth to 3.5 (6+) and departs the top ten #9 to #12, 6+).

Phoenix Music Formats – As a result of four straight sweeps without a loss, Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KOMR “Amor 106.3” has more than doubled (+1.4) its 6+-stat (1.3 – 1.3 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 2.7, 6+) and cracks the top twenty (#17). Likewise, iHeartMedia regional Mexican KOY “El Patron” exactly doubles (+.7) its 6+-figure from a month ago (.7 – 1.4, #27, 6+) and has more than quadrupled its (6+) January showing. As a result of three successive advances (2.8 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.7, 6+), Farmworker Educational Radio’s similarly-formatted KNAI “101.9 La Campesina” is up a collective nine-tenths, climbing from #12 to #11. Another regional Mexican outlet – Univision Radio’s KHOT “Que Buena 105.9” – displays a March gain of one-half share as well (2.5 – 3.0, #19 to #15, 6+). The latest shifts by iHeartMedia adult hits KYOT are -1.2 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.6 (January/February); and now -.8 in March (6.7 – 5.9, 6+). Nonetheless, “95.5 The Mountain – We Play Everything” repeats at #1. As a result of three significant drops in succession, adult contemporary cluster-mate KESZ is an overall -9.7 (15.0 – 7.0 – 6.3 – 5.3, 6+). It continues in the runner-up slot, following five straight times at #1. January’s loss suspended four positive increases in a row that netted +8.9 (6.1 – 6.6 – 6.9 – 9.7 – 15.0, 6+), with 15.0 its highest 6+-showing since 16.4 in “Holiday” 2017. The last time KESZ fell below a six-share (6+) was in September 2017 (5.8). It is tied with Hubbard’s KSLX “Classic Rock 100.7” (5.3, -.1, fourth to second, 6+), which sputtered in February by -1.1 to 5.4, its weakest 6+-stat in just over two years (5.4, as well in January 2017). Regressing by six-tenths (each) are iHeartMedia’s KNIX “102.5 Today’s Best Country” (4.5, flat at #6, 6+) and Entercom classic hits-oldies KOOL “94.5 Phoenix Classic Hits” (4.6 – 4.0, eighth to ninth, 6+). Entering the March sweep, KNIX gained one-half share via five consecutive survey periods without a loss (4.6 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 5.0 – 5.1, 6+). Up eight-tenths in January/February (2.2 – 2.4 – 3.0, 6+), Riviera Broadcasting hot AC KMVA “Hot” forfeits one-half share to 2.5 (#15 to #20, 6+); February’s 3.0 is its best 6+-showing since September 2018’s 3.1. Fading from #13 to #18, Entravision Spanish adult hits KVVA “92.7 La Suavecita” drops one-half share as well (3.1 – 2.6, 6+).

Minneapolis

Spoken-Word Formats – Immediately after gaining eight-tenths in January/February to end six straight down or flat moves accounting for an overall -1.2 (4.4 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.1 – 3.8 – 3.2, 6+), Entercom-owned Timberwolves and Twins flagship WCCO “News Radio 830” forfeits seven-tenths (4.0 – 3.3, #11 to #12, 6+). It is one-tenth ahead of Hubbard news/talk KTMY, which had been +1.2 in January/February (2.2 – 3.3 – 3.4, 6+) but “My Talk 107.1” slips two-tenths to 3.2; even so, KTMY moves up from #14 to #13. Frozen on 3.3 (6+) in January and February, iHeartMedia’s KTLK “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” falters by one-half share to 2.8 (#15 to #16, 6+).

Four setbacks in succession by KTLK cluster-mate KFXN accounted for a -2.3 (6.7 – 5.7 – 5.6 – 4.9 – 4.4,  6+), but “Sports Radio 100.3 K-Fan” bounces back with a +.4 to 4.8 (ninth to eighth, 6+). Prior to November, the flagship of the Minnesota Vikings and Minnesota Wild logged four consecutive increases that yielded a +3.0 (3.7 – 3.8 – 4.9 – 6.5 – 6.7, 6+). Unchanged from January and February in 6+ market share (.7), Hubbard sports talk KSTP-AM “ESPN 1500” moves from #25 to #24.

In a down/up sequence (4.2 – 4.0 – 5.0 – 4.3 – 4.7, 6+), Minnesota Public Radio news/talk KNOW inches up from tenth to ninth.

Minneapolis Music Formats – The Twin Cities’ (6+) hot AC share escalated by +3.1 (January); deflated by -1.3 (February); and now improves by +.8 in March. To be more specific, Hubbard’s KSTP-FM “KS-95” was +1.9 in January, regressed by -.8 in February but is +.6 in March (6.4 – 7.0, second to a first-place tie, 6+). Having held the lead position seven straight times before being ousted in August, KSTP-FM returned to #1 in October and November. Meanwhile iHeartMedia-owned/similarly formatted KTCZ “Cities 97.1” was +1.2 (January) -.5 (February); and now +.2 in March (4.0 – 4.2, level at #11, 6+). “Cities 97.1” spiraled by nine-tenths in “Holiday” 2018 to 3.3, its lowest 6+-performance since April 2018 (3.3, as well). Sharing the top spot with KSTP-FM is iHeartMedia mainstream CHR KDWB “101.3 The Twin Cities’ #1 Hit Music Station,” which repeats February’s 7.0, its best 6+-stat since September 2018’s 7.2. KDWB progressed from third to first in February with a gain of seven-tenths. In addition to “KS-95,” Cumulus Media adult contemporary WGVX “Love 105 FM” also notches a gain of six-tenths (to 1.8, #22 to #20, 6+), erasing January/February’s -.6 (1.8 – 1.3 – 1.2, 6+). Owing to four successive improvements (1.9 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 3.0 – 3.1, 6+), Northern Lights Broadcasting rhythmic CHR KZGO “Go Radio – Modern Minnesota Music” is an overall +1.2 and climbs from #16 to #14. Without a loss six times in a row for a collective +1.1 (2.0 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.9 – 3.1 – 3.1, 6+), Minnesota Public Radio classical outlet KSJN falters by nine-tenths in February/March (3.1 – 2.9 – 2.2, flat at #17, 6+). As a result of dropping one-half share, Entercom country outlet KMNB “102.9 The Wolf” falls below a three-share (3.4 – 2.9, #13 to #15, 6+).

San Diego

Spoken-Word Formats – A March gain of two-tenths by iHeartMedia news/talk KOGO slices February’s -.4 in half (4.4 – 4.0 – 4.2, tenth to ninth, 6+). January’s one-half share increase curtailed three straight down or flat trends that accounted for a collective loss of eight-tenths (4.7 – 4.7 – 4.0 – 3.9, 6+). Despite being a collective +.8 via three upticks in succession (1.6 – 1.9 – 2.0 – 2.4, 6+), Tegna news/talk KFMB-AM “AM 760” backslides from a tie at #18 to #19. Without an increase the past five San Diego sweeps for a loss of six-tenths (1.7 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.1, 6+), iHeartMedia Los Angeles’ similarly-formatted KFI “AM 640” picks up one-tenth to 1.2 (#24 to #22, 6+).

In the market’s sports talk contest, Entercom-owned/San Diego Padres flagship KWFN “97.3 The Fan” regains half (+.2) of February’s -.4  (1.1 – .7 – .9, #26 to #23, 6+), while iHeartMedia’s KLSD “Fox Sports 1360 San Diego’s Sports Station” is up one-tenth (.4 – .5, flat at #27, 6+). Notwithstanding that Interamericana de Radio’s XPRS-AM was +.7 through four consecutive up or flat trends (.9 – .9 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.6, #21, 6+) with 1.6 its best 6+-performance since February 2018 (1.6, as well), “The Mighty 1090” has gone silent.

On top for the third month in a row, KPBS posts its third straight gain for a +2.6 (5.1 – 7.2 – 7.5 – 7.7, 6+). The San Diego State University-owned news/talk outlet was a combined -1.7 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (6.8 – 6.2 – 5.1, 6+).

San Diego Music Formats – Three down or flat moves in a row by Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KLQV accounted for a collective loss of nine-tenths (2.9 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.0, 6+), but “Amor 102.9” answers with a March gain of eight-tenths to 2.8 (#18 to #15, 6+). Leaping by eight-tenths as well is Local Media San Diego-programmed urban-rhythmic oldies XHRM “Magic 92.5, The Beat of San Diego” which is +1.3 in three consecutive improvements (4.6 – 4.8 – 5.1 – 5.9, fifth to second, 6+). In four straight downturns (6.6 – 6.0 – 4.6 – 4.5 – 4.3, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned CHR KHTS was a cumulative -2.3, but “Channel 93.3 – San Diego’s #1 Hit Music Station” rebounds with a half-share spike to 4.8 (eighth to seventh, 6+). By dropping seven-tenths (4.8 – 4.1, 6+), hot AC cluster-mate KMYI “Star 94.1” slides from sixth to tenth. An overall +2.2 through three consecutive improvements (3.7 – 3.8 – 4.5 – 5.9, 6+), co-owned KGB relinquishes six-tenths to 5.3 (third to fourth, 6+). In February, “San Diego’s Classic Rock” reached the five-share level (5.9, 6+) for the first time since May 2018’s 5.1. Owing to three straight upticks, Entercom-owned KSON was +1.9 (4.2 – 4.3 – 5.4 – 6.1, 6+), but “103.7 San Diego’s #1 New Country” is off three-tenths in March to 5.8 (second to third, 6+). A February improvement of six-tenths by classic hits-oldies XPRS-FM “105.7 Max FM” (.7 – 1.3, 6+) followed a “Holiday” 2018/January 2019 -1.7 (2.4 – 1.2 – .7, 6+). It is somewhat of a non-issue that “Max” drops one-half share in March (1.3 – .8, #22 to #26, 6+) though, as the station has gone silent.

Tampa

Spoken-Word Formats – As a result of three gains in succession (3.1 – 3.6 – 4.3 – 4.5, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned news/talk WFLA “970 Tampa Bay’s News Radio” is +1.4 as the flagship of the Tampa Lightning moves from ninth to seventh. Stuck on 2.9 (6+) in January and February, Cox Media Group news/talk WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” adds two-tenths to 3.1 (6+) and carries on at #15. A January gain of three-tenths suspended three straight down or flat sweeps that accounted for a -1.0 (3.6 – 3.6 – 3.4 – 2.6, 6+).

After being up one-tenth in back-to-back reports (2.1 – 2.2 – 2.3, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “620 Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” is a combined -.6 in February/March (2.3 – 2.1 – 1.7, #17 to #19, 6+).

The “Holiday” 2018 through March 2019 topline for University of South Florida news/talk WUSF is: 1.7 – 2.0 – 2.1 – 1.9 (#17 – #18, 6+).

Tampa Music Formats – The only station in the 24 PPM-markets we’ve highlighted thus far making a February 2019 – March 2019 (6+) increase of at least two full-shares is Cox Media Group-owned WXGL “107.3 The Eagle – Tampa Bay’s Classic Hits” (7.5, +2.1, third to second, 6+). In five successive sweeps without an increase prior to the March report, “The Eagle” was an overall -1.5 (6.9 – 6.6 – 6.0 – 5.7 – 5.4 – 5.4, 6+). The last time WXGL reached the seven-share level (6+) was in August 2018 (7.1). Right behind it in third-place is Beasley Media Group’s similarly-programmed WRBQ “Q-105 Tampa Bay’s Hits of the ‘80s & More,” which busts out a robust +1.2 (4.9 – 6.1, sixth to third, 6+); “Q-105” last reached the six-share threshold (6+) in September 2018 (6.2). Up or flat the fifth successive sweep for a +1.1 (3.1 – 3.2 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 4.2 – 4.2, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned urban contemporary WBTP “95.7 The Beat” advances from tenth to eighth. Through four straight October 2018 through January 2019 increases, Cox Media Group adult contemporary WWRM was a +1.0 (4.9 – 5.1 – 5.3 – 5.4 – 5.9, 6+), but “Magic 94.9 – Tampa Bay’s Best Music”  dropped six-tenths in February. It wipes away that deficit completely though with a March +.6 (5.3 – 5.9, 6+) and continues in fourth-place. There’s good news/bad news for its adult contemporary cluster-mate, WDUV. On the plus side, it is #1 for a truly staggering 80^th successive ratings period; however, WDUV “Lite Favorites” is a cumulative -3.1 in three consecutive dips (13.7 – 11.8 – 11.6 10.6, 6+). Its January decrease suspended three straight gains that netted +4.8 (8.9 – 9.7 – 10.8 – 13.7, 6+). “Holiday” 2018’s 13.7 is the highest 6+-stat for any Tampa station since WDUV’s 14.9 in “Holiday” 2015. Via seven successive sweeps without a loss (2.9 – 3.2 – 3.5 – 4.1 – 4.3 – 4.3 – 4.4 – 5.2, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned hot AC WMTX was an overall +2.3, but “Mix 100.7” forfeits approximately half that increase with a -1.2 to 4.0 (fifth to ninth, 6+). A combined +1.5 in January/February (4.9 – 5.5 – 6.4, 6+), Beasley Media Group country WQYK “99.5 QYK” surrenders eight-tenths to 5.6 (second to fifth, 6+). Three losses in a row just before that resulted in a -1.8 (6.7 – 5.8 – 5.5 – 4.9, 6+).

Denver

Spoken-Word Formats – The flagship of the Colorado Rockies – iHeartMedia news/talk KOA “Colorado’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station” is unchanged from February in 6+-share (4.7) and 6+-rank (seventh). Co-owned news/talk KHOW has a “Holiday” 2018 through March 2019 topline of 1.1 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.1 (#24 to #25, 6+). Before improving by three-tenths in January, “Talk Radio 630” was off a collective seven-tenths in three successive reports without an increase (1.8 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.1, 6+).

Shifting from #13 to #17, Bonneville-owned KKFN “Sports Radio 104.3 The Fan” is a combined -1.2 in February/March (4.1 – 3.3 – 2.9, 6+). “The Fan” was an overall +1.9 (2.5 – 2.9 – 3.8 – 4.0 – 4.4, 6+) followed by -1.2 December/“Holiday” 2018; +.9 (January 2019); and -.8 (February). The December 2018 through March 2019 topline for KSE Radio Ventures’ KKSE-FM “Attitude Sports Radio 92.5” is .3 – .4 – .5 – .3 – .4 (6+); the flagship of the Nuggets and Colorado Avalanche bumps up from #29 to #27.

The only station in the 24 PPM-markets we’ve highlighted thus far making a February 2019 – March 2019 (6+) decrease of at least two full-shares is KCFR (7.6 – 5.6, -2.0, first to third, 6+). The Colorado Public Radio news/talk facility was a combined +1.2 in January/February (6.4 – 7.1 – 7.6, 6+) and was on top in September 2018, October, and November before segueing to #2 in December. Trending 1.2 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.8, (“Holiday” 2018 – January 2019 – February – March, 6+), Community Radio for Northern Colorado news/talk KUNC enters the top twenty (#22 to #19.

Denver Music Formats – The three most recent fluctuations for KSE Radio Ventures’ classic hits-oldies KXKL are +1.2 (January); -.6 (February); and now +1.2 in March (5.1 – 6.3, 6+) as “Kool 105 – Denver’s Greatest Hits” leaps from third to first. Not only is iHeartMedia CHR KPTT a combined +1.6 in back-to-back sweeps, (2.6 – 3.2 – 4.2, 6+), “95.7 The Party – Denver’s #1 Hit Music Station” breaks into the top ten (#15 to #10). February’s +.6 ended three straight setbacks that accounted for a loss of eight-tenths (3.4 – 3.1 – 2.9 – 2.6, 6+). Up by a total of nine-tenths in three straight up or flat trends (2.9 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 3.8, 6+), Entercom rhythmic CHR KQKS “KS-107.5” proceeds from #17 to #13. A combined January/February -8.2 (12.8 – 5.3 – 4.6, 6+), Bonneville adult contemporary KOSI “101.1 Real-Music-Variety” answers with a March increase of seven-tenths to 5.3 (6+), vaulting from ninth to fourth. In three straight sweeps without a loss, KOSI totaled an overall +7.9 (4.9 – 4.9 – 7.6 – 12.8, 6+) and was #1 in December and “Holiday” 2018 (with a 12.8, 6+). The last time any Denver station reached the 12-share level (6+) was more than four years ago (KOSI, 12.4, “Holiday” 2014). In addition to KOSI, country cluster-mate KYGO advances by seven-tenths as well and is +1.4 as a result of three positive spikes in succession (4.3 – 4.6 – 5.0 – 5.7, fourth to second, 6+). Replicating February’s +.6 (4.0 – 4.6 – 5.2, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KRFX “Classic Rock 103.5 The Fox” jumps from ninth to fifth. Recent moves by Entercom hot AC KALC “Alice 105.9” come in increments of seven-tenths. It gained seven-tenths in February (4.0 – 4.7, 6+) but is down seven-tenths in March (4.7 – 4.0, 6+) and exits the top ten (#7 to #11). That +.7 in February pulled the plug on three straight downturns that were responsible for a loss of … seven-tenths (4.7 – 4.5 – 4.1 – 4.0, 6+). A decrease of one-half share (2.1 – 1.6, 6+) sends Colorado Public Radio classical KVOD out of the top twenty (#18 to #22). After being an overall +1.3 in five successive increases (4.1 – 4.4 – 4.5 – 4.6 – 4.8 – 5.4, 6+), iHeartMedia alternative KTCL “Channel 93-3 Denver’s Modern Rock” falters by three-tenths to 5.1 (second to sixth, 6+). February’s 5.4 is its highest 6+-stat in nearly two years (5.5, April 2017).

Baltimore

Spoken-Word Formats – Independent news/talk WCBM “680 Stimulating Talk – Breaking News” is down three-tenths (3.4 – 3.1, 6+) but stays at #11, while Hearst Television news/talk WBAL “News Radio – Expect More” is off one-tenth (2.8 – 2.7, 6+) and carries on at #13. Doubling (+.3) its 6+ Baltimore stat in four straight up or flat sweeps (.3 – .3 – .4 – .5 – .6, 6+), Cumulus Media Washington, DC news/talk WMAL moves from #27 to #26.

Unchanged at #10, Entercom sports talk WJZ-FM “105.7 The Fan” is -1.0 in three slips in a row (4.9 – 4.4 – 4.1 – 3.9, 6+), after being a combined +.8 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (4.1 – 4.6 – 4.9, 6+).

Co-owned business news WDCH, which more than doubled (+.7) its 6+ Baltimore stat between December 2018 and February 2019 (.6 – .7 – 1.1 – 1.3, 6+) forfeits four-tenths to .9 (6+) and exits the top twenty (#19 to #21).

A combined +1.1 in January/February (2.3 – 3.1 – 3.4 (6+), Your Public Radio news/talk WYPR “88.1 Your NPR News Station” surrenders roughly half that gain in March (2.9, -.5, #11 to #12, 6+). Even though American University-owned news/talk WAMU gains one-tenth (1.4 to 1.5, 6+), it backslides from #16 to #17.

Baltimore Music Formats – Over and above logging a March improvement of seven-tenths (7.6 – 8.3, 6+), Radio One urban contemporary WERQ “92 Q Jams” repeats at #1. Its January +1.0 halted three consecutive declines that resulted in a -1.2 (7.9 – 7.7 – 7.0 – 6.7, 6+). Entercom gospel WLIF-HD2 is up one-half share (1.4 – 1.9, #17 to #16, 6+). Meanwhile, unchanged at #3, adult contemporary WLIF-FM is trending 6.5 – 6.6 – 6.4 (6+), after “Holiday” 2018’s 15.2 96+). Still in that Entercom cluster, WWMX “Mix 106.5 Baltimore’s Best Mix” is without a loss the fourth time in a row for a collective +1.0 (4.2 – 4.2 – 4.8 – 4.8 – 5.2, steady in sixth-place, 6+). This is the third uptick in succession for iHeartMedia alternative WWDC “DC-101” for a net gain of six-tenths (1.6 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 2.2, #15 to #14, 6+). A combined +1.3 in January/February (4.9 – 5.6 – 6.2, 6+) after being an overall -1.2 in three straight downturns (6.1 – 5.8 – 5.4 – 4.9, 6+), Shamrock Communications’ classic rock WZBA “100.7 The Bay” drops four-tenths to 5.8 (flat at #5, 6+). This marks the eighth sweep in a row that Peter and John Radio Fellowship contemporary Christian WRBS-FM is unlisted; “95.1 Shine FM – Baltimore’s Positive Hits Station” was #13 in August 2018 (2.6, 6+).

St. Louis

Spoken-Word Formats – Anchored in seventh-place, Entercom news/talk and St. Louis Cardinals flagship KMOX “The Voice of St. Louis” is up one-tenth (5.0 – 5.1, 6+), following a February loss of six-tenths. Co-owned KFTK “FM News Talk 97.1,” which was a combined +.8 in January/February (1.7 – 2.2 – 2.5, 6+), falters by three-tenths to 2.2 (6+) but remains at #17.

Despite duplicating February’s loss of one-half share (4.1 – 3.6 – 3.1, 6+) Hubbard sports talk WXOS “101 Sports” carries on at #16.

On the heels of February’s +.4, University of Missouri news/talk KWMU posts a March decrease twice that magnitude (4.5 – 3.7, -.8, 6+) and drifts from the top ten (#9 to #14).

St. Louis Music Formats – The wild ride continues for Hubbard’s KSHE “95 Real Rock Radio,” which was tied with iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KLOU for February’s lead position but KSHE has sole possession of first-place in March. Its five most recent fluctuations are +.5 (December); -.7 (Holiday” 2018); +2.0 (January 2019); -.5 (February); and now +1.3 in March (7.6 – 8.9, 6+) with 8.9 its highest 6+-share since November 2016 (8.6). Regarding aforementioned KLOU, it was +1.6 in January but is now a combined -1.1 in February/March (7.9 – 7.6 – 6.8, 6+) as “103.3 St. Louis’ Greatest Hits” shifts from first to third. Following four straight down or flat trends for a collective -1.8 (4.9 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 3.7 – 3.1, 6+), Radio One urban AC WFUN “95.5 R&B For The Lou” erases all but three-tenths of the deficit with a February/March +1.5 (3.1 – 3.7 – 4.6, 6+) and rockets into the top ten (#14 to #10, 6+). Posting March increases of seven-tenths are Hubbard’s WIL “New Country 92.3” (6.1, sixth to fourth, 6+) and Entercom-owned CHR KNOU “Now 96.3 All The Hits” (3.7 – 4.4, #14 to #11, 6+). In February, WIL was down six-tenths to 5.4, its lowest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2017 (5.4, as well); “Now” recorded an increase of nine-tenths in January. WIL’s format rival – iHeartMedia’s KSD “93.7 The Bull – #1 For New Country” – returns in full February’s half-share improvement (4.0 – 4.5 – 4.0, 6+) and departs the top ten (#9 to #12). A boost of six-tenths (4.2 – 4.8, 6+) by Hubbard adult hits WARH propels “106.5 The Arch” into the top ten (#11 to #8). Following a February one-half share increase, Entercom adult contemporary KEZK “The Best Mix of the ‘80s & Today” craters by -1.8 (7.0 – 5.2, fourth to sixth, 6+). Three straight up or flat tends (5.2 – 5.2 – 9.8 – 15.6, 6+) resulted in KEZK tripling (+10.4) its 6+ numbers; it spent December and “Holiday” 2018 at #1, with “Holiday” 2018’s 15.6 the strongest 6+-share by any St. Louis station in the PPM-era.

Wednesday, April 17, 2019

Dan Sileo Exits Mornings at KWFN, San Diego; Remains with Entercom. Sports talk personality Dan Sileo has exited the morning drive daypart at Entercom’s fledgling San Diego sports talk outlet KWFN “97.3 The Fan.”  He’s been replaced on the station’s schedule by longtime San Diego sports talk personality “Coach” John Kentera.  The San Diego Union-Tribune reports Entercom San Diego SVP and market manager Bob Bolinger saying Sileo is still with the company in other capacities.  Sileo recently began hosting a Saturday afternoon show on the company’s WEEI-FM, Boston in addition to his duties in San Diego.  Sileo previously served with the former crosstown sports station XEPRS “The Mighty 1090” and was often critical of San Diego Padres management’s operation of the team.  KWFN serves as the Padres’ flagship station for play-by-play.  The Union-Tribune report says “many Padres fans on social media” were upset that the team was making team management available for interviews on Sileo’s morning show. Whether that was the reason for the change or not is unknown.

WFNZ, Charlotte and Kyle Bailey Agree to New Deal. Charlotte sports talk host Kyle Bailey and Entercom sports talker WFNZ-AM/W273DA agree to a new, long-term contract extension. Bailey hosts the afternoon drive “The Clubhouse with Kyle Bailey daily from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm.  Entercom Charlotte SVP and market manager Matt Hanlon says, “Kyle Bailey has proven to be an outstanding sports broadcaster in Charlotte, and we are thrilled that he is continuing with WFNZ.  He cares about the listener and demonstrates a genuine interest in the community, which is evident in the quality of the show he produces day in and day out.” Bailey joined WFNZ in 2017 as host of the station’s midday show prior to transitioning to afternoons in 2018.  Prior to joining WFNZ he worked in the Blacksburg, Virginia market at rock WBRW-FM.

OK City Sports Talker Jim Traber Pranked. KOCO-TV, Oklahoma City reports that WWLS-AM, Oklahoma City sports talk personality Jim Traber was pranked by a still-unknown person and the goof ended up taking a few twists.  Traber had said repeatedly on his radio show that Tiger Woods would never win another major tournament.  After Woods’ victory at the Masters on Sunday, someone paid local business Card My Yard to put the display you see at right on Traber’s front lawn.  Traber told his listeners he took the decorations off his yard and took them to the dump.  However, Card My Yard owner Jodi Peters – who didn’t know the order was a prank – picks up the decorations a day later and reuses them.  She told KOCO-TV she’s out over $400.  Traber didn’t realize tossing the stuff would harm a local small business so he’s offered to compensate Peters for the loss of her inventory.  Although Traber will be out $400, it’s great publicity for Traber and the station.  However, who pulled the prank remains a mystery.

Westwood One Brings Theresa Gage Aboard as Vice President for Sponsorship Sales and Marketing. Media sales pro Theresa Gage is named vice president, sponsorship sales and marketing for Westwood One.  In this role, Gage will be responsible for “managing sponsorship sales, partnerships, activations, and integrations for Westwood One’s personality-driven influencer network across music, entertainment, and spoken word syndicated programming.”  She’s based in LA and reports to WWO president of sales Bryan Forbes.  She has served with Pandora, Live Nation, and iHeartMedia, among others.  Gage says, “I am so excited to be back with my first love, Westwood One!  This is where I started my career in talent endorsements, branded content and sponsorships. It’s a legacy organization that has endured the changing media landscape and is a major contributor to the growth of audio and the power of authentic talent endorsements.”

Southern Border Issues/Barr Asylum Decision, Mueller Report Release, 2020 Presidential Politics, Notre Dame Fire, Denver Manhunt for Armed Woman, NBA Playoffs and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (4/16). The Southern Border migrant issue and Attorney General William Barr’s decision to withhold bail for asylum seekers; the anticipation of the release of the redacted version of the entire Mueller Report; the Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020 and Bill Weld’s decision to challenge Trump for the GOP nomination; the fire at Paris’ iconic Notre Dame Cathedral; the search for an armed woman believed to be “infatuated” with the Columbine massacre in the Denver area; NBA playoffs action; and MLB results were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. A new music show is being launched in syndication by Townsquare Media and Compass Media Networks.  “The Night Shift with Craig Allen” features hits from the 70s, 80s and 90s and is debuting on 17 of Townsquare Media’s classic hits stations in the 7:0 pm to 12:00 midnight daypart.  Townsquare SVP of programming Kurt Johnson says, “We’re excited to bring a fresh new show to classic hits radio.  It is great music and great content with a nighttime attitude.”  Townsquare says Allen has been playing classic hits and doing personality radio on WKXW, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5” since 2002…..Cumulus Media appoints Sid Kelly program director for KLIF-FM, Dallas “Hot 93.3.”  Kelly comes to Dallas from the company’s Indianapolis cluster where he was PM drive host and PD for CHR WYRG-FM “Energy 93.9.” Kelly says, “This is an unbelievable opportunity and I’m thrilled to be able to grow even more with Cumulus by joining the team in Dallas.  I’m looking forward to working hard to increase Hot 93.3’s brand and grow the audience.”

March 2019 PPM Data – Round One. Information for the March 2019 ratings period has been released for New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union. Nielsen Audio’s March 2019 survey period covered February 28 – March 27. See the 6+ data from subscribing stations here. Managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” from these 12-PPM markets.

New York City

Spoken-Word Formats – Separated by four-tenths of a share (6+) in March, three commercial news/talkers rank #22, #23, and #24 – just as they did this time last month. Specifically, iHeartMedia’s WOR forfeits one-tenth for the second month in a row (1.8 – 1.7 – 1.6, 6+) but “710 The Voice of New York” – which was up four-tenths in January – remains at #22. Up three-tenths in February, Cumulus Media-owned WABC returns two-tenths (1.5 – 1.3, 6+) and repeats at #23. After recording a 1.4 (6+) in each of the last three survey periods, Townsquare Media’s WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” drops two-tenths to 1.2 (6+) and is flat at #24.

Following a January gain of one-tenth, Entercom sports talk WFAN surrenders a combined three-tenths in February/March (3.3 – 3.1 – 3.0, 6+) as the flagship of the Brooklyn Nets and Yankees falls out of the top ten (#10 to #12). Without a loss for the third straight time for an overall gain of eight-tenths (1.4 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 2.2, 6+), WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York,” the key station of the Knicks, is back in the top twenty (#21 to #18).

The full-share (6+) February lead that Entercom all-news WINS had over co-owned/similarly-formatted WCBS-AM is down to three-tenths as WINS is a combined -1.1 in February/March (4.8 – 4.1 – 3.7, seventh to ninth, 6+), while WCBS-AM gains three-tenths (3.1 – 3.4, steady at #10, 6+). WCBS-AM improved by three-tenths in January but relinquished two-tenths in February.

Although it is down or flat for the fourth successive time for an overall -1.0 (3.6 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 2.9 – 2.6, 6+), WNYC Broadcasting Foundation news/talk WNYC-FM carries on at #14. Co-owned news/talk WNYC-AM has seen its 6+ share sliced in half (-.3) February/March (.6 – .4 – .3, #31 to #33, 6+).

New York City Music Formats – Not only does iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW post a one-half share increase to 7.7 (6+), following a combined January/February -5.3 (12.5 – 7.6 – 7.2, 6+), “106.7 Lite FM” is #1 for the 21^st consecutive ratings period. WLTW was +5.8 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (6.7 – 9.1 – 12.5, 6+). A collective +1.3 via three straight upticks (5.6 – 6.3 – 6.8 – 6.9, 6+), Emmis urban AC WBLS “107.5 #1 For R&B” repeats in the runner-up position. Co-owned rhythmic CHR WQHT “Hot 97,” which logged a 3.7 (6+) in five of the last six sweeps (3.7 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.5 – 3.7, 6+), gains one-tenth to 3.8 (eighth to seventh, 6+). Meanwhile, having posted a 3.1 (6+) in “Holiday” 2018, January 2019, and February 2019, iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WKTU “103.5 KTU” (also) picks up one-tenth to 3.2 (6+), yet downslides from a three-way tie at #10 to #11. As a result of three consecutive up or flat trends, Cumulus Media’s WNSH “New York’s Country 94.7” is up an overall six-tenths (2.0 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.6, #16 to #14, 6+). Without a loss for the third sweep in a row as well (for a collective +.4) is co-owned WPLJ (2.0 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.4, #16 to #17, 6+). The hot AC is soon to become contemporary Christian when its sale to Educational Media Foundation is finalized. It trails Entercom’s similarly formatted WNEW-FM “NEW 102.7” by two-tenths (2.5 – 2.6, +.1, #15 to #14, 6+). The wild ride continues for WNYC Broadcasting Foundation-owned WQXR “New York’s Classical Music Radio Station,” which netted a +.9 in four straight up or flat reports (1.4 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 2.0 – 2.3, 6+); surrendered all of it in January 2019 (-.9); posted a +.8 in February; and surrenders a -.5 in March (2.2 – 1.7, #18 to #21, 6+).

Los Angeles

Spoken-Word Formats – Returning the two-tenths it earned in February (3.8 – 4.0 – 3.8, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk KFI slips from sixth to seventh. “AM 640” was a combined +.8 in January/February (3.2 – 3.8 – 4.0, 6+), immediately after an overall -1.2 via eight straight down or flat trends  (4.4 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.2, 6+). Its internet stream debuted in February and repeats its .6 (#38 to #37, 6+). After recording gains of two-tenths in back-to-back sweeps (.6 – .8 – 1.0, 6+), Salem Media Group news/talk KRLA “AM 870 The Answer” slips by one-tenth to .9 (6+) but stays at #30. This marks the fourth time in the last five survey periods that iHeartMedia-owned news/talk KEIB “AM 1150 The Patriot” notches a .8 (.8 – .8 – .9 – .8 – .8, #34 to #33, 6+). Meanwhile, Cumulus Media-owned KABC “790 News-Talk-Evolved” is down or flat for the fourth consecutive time for an overall loss of two-tenths (.7 – .7 – .6 – .6 – .5, #38 to #40, 6+).

A slip of four-tenths (1.5 – 1.1, 6+) sends Disney-owned/Lakers flagship KSPN “710 ESPN” from #25 to #29. Up or flat the past three reports for a net gain of two-tenths (.7 – .7 – .9 – .9, 6+), iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted KLAC “AM 570 LA Sports” – the key station of the Dodgers – returns that increase in full (.7, -.2, #31 to #34, 6+).

Off one-half share (3.6 – 3.1, 6+), Entercom’s KNX drops from eighth to ninth; “1070 News Radio” posted a +1.1 in January.

Owing to a loss of six-tenths (2.7 – 2.1, 6+), Pasadena City College news/talk KPCC “The Voice of Southern California” plummets from the top twenty (#13 to #21).

Los Angeles Music Formats – The market’s big (non-ratings-related) news involves the just announced sale of Cumulus Media’s KLOS for $43 million in cash to Meruelo Media Holdings, which has already begun programming KLOS under a Local Marketing Agreement (LMA). When the sale becomes official, it will leave Cumulus Media with one Los Angeles property (news/talk KABC), while Meruelo will pair KLOS with rhythmic CHR KPWR “Power 106.” With a “Holiday” 2018 through March 2019 topline of 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 26 (6+), KLOS advances from #16 to #14. Its soon-to-be sibling “Power 106” is in the middle of a repetitive 3.0 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 2.7 sequence (#10 to #12, 6+). Unchanged at #6, Entercom adult hits KCBS-FM “93.1 Jack FM – Playing What We Want” is up a collective eight-tenths through three straight gains (3.3 – 3.5 – 4.0 – 4.1, 6+). Level at 6.5 (6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST sets the pace for the sixth straight time. Prior to January when it surrendered a -6.8 to 6.2 (6+), “Coast 103.5” was an overall +8.4 via five improvements in a row (4.6 – 4.7 – 4.9 – 5.1 – 9.0 – 13.0, 6+). It enjoys a one-share advantage (6+) over Entercom classic hits-oldies KRTH “K-Earth 101,” which is a cumulative +1.1 via four straight up or flat trends (4.4 – 4.4 – 5.1 – 5.3 – 5.5, 6+) and repeats in the runner-up slot. Steady at #3, smooth AC sibling KTWV “94-7 The Wave” is a collective +1.1 as a result of its third positive spike in succession (3.6 – 4.3 – 4.4 – 4.7, 6+). In addition to logging its fourth consecutive uptick for a +1.0 (2.1 – 2.3 – 2.7 – 2.9 – 3.1, 6+), Spanish Broadcasting System regional Mexican KLAX “97.9 La Raza” cracks the top ten (#11 to #9). Down or flat seven straight times for an overall loss of one-half share (2.5 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 2.0 – 2.0, 6+), format rival – Liberman Broadcasting’s KBUE “Que Buena” – ends the slide with a +.1 to 2.1 (flat at #21, 6+). Both of the market’s mainstream CHRs – iHeartMedia’s KIIS “102.7 Kiss FM” (4.4 – 4.3, third to fourth, 6+) and Entercom-owned KAMP “97.1 Amp Radio” (2.8 – 2.7, flat at #12, 6+) drop one tenth. “Kiss” was a combined +.9 in January/February (3.5 – 4.3 – 4.4, 6+), while “Amp” – which is within 2.0 – 2.9 territory for the 22^nd time in a row – gained four-tenths in February.

Chicago

Spoken-Word Formats – Returning all but one-tenth of February’s one-half share gain (3.5 – 3.1, -.4, 6+), Tribune Media news/talk WGN drops out of the top ten (#8 to #11). Even though WLS-AM logs a 1.7 (6+) for the third time in a row, the Cumulus Media news/talker slips from #21 to #22.

After recording three straight gains that netted one-half share (2.8 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 3.3, 6+), Entercom sports talk WSCR “670 The Score” has lost a combined February/March half-share (3.3 – 3.0 – 2.8, 6+) as the flagship for the Cubs and Bulls tumbles from #13 to #16. Despite picking up one-tenth to 1.1 (6+) thus ending three straight sweeps without an increase for a collective half-share loss (1.5 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.0, 6+), Disney/ESPN-owned WMVP “ESPN Chicago 1000” drops from #26 to #27.

Notwithstanding back-to-back (February/March) losses accounting for a -.4 (6.2 – 6.1 – 5.8, 6+) following a January gain of nine-tenths, Entercom news outlet WBBM-AM is on top for the third month in a row.

Steady at #9, Chicago Public Media news/talk WBEZ is a combined +.8 via three consecutive positive spikes (2.6 – 3.0 – 3.3 – 3.4, 6+).

Chicago Music Formats – Off one-tenth in both January and February (2.4 – 2.3 – 2.2, 6+), Entercom CHR WBBM-FM “B-96” erupts with a +.8 to 3.0 (#20 to #13, 6+), its strongest 6+-showing since January 2018 (3.0, as well). After dialing up a November 2018 3.3 (6+), fellow CHR – iHeartMedia’s WKSC “103.5 Kiss FM Chicago’s #1 Hit Music Station” – follows with five consecutive 2.9 showings (6+) and climbs from #15 to #14. A cumulative -1.4 in eight straight down or flat trends (6.1 – 6.0 – 5.7 – 5.7 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 4.9 – 4.8 – 4.7, 6+), iHeartMedia urban AC WVAZ “V-103” curtails that streak with a six-tenths gain to 5.3 (fifth to third, 6+). Improving by six-tenths as well, Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WLS-FM “94.7 Chicago’s Classic Hits” is an overall +.9 in three straight improvements (3.6 – 3.7 – 3.9 – 4.5, seventh to fifth, 6+). Steady at #3, Hubbard-owned classic rock WDRV “97.1 The Drive” is a collective +1.4 in its third successive increase (3.9 – 4.5 – 5.1 – 5.3, 6+) and has its strongest 6+-showing (5.3) since 5.5 in August 2018. Co-owned adult contemporary WSHE “100.3 SHE” is +.7 through three consecutive up or flat moves (2.5 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.2, 6+) and returns to the top ten (#11 to #10). In addition to being up or flat for the third sweep in succession for a collective +.6 (3.0 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 3.6, 6+), Entercom urban-rhythmic oldies WBMX “104.3 Jams” enters the top ten (#12 to #8). A January increase of nine-tenths by Univision Radio regional Mexican WOJO curtailed its December/“Holiday” 2018 mini-slide that resulted in a loss of eight-tenths (5.4 – 4.7 – 4.6, 6+), but “Que Buena 105.1” is now -1.3 in February/March (5.5 – 5.0 – 4.2, fourth to sixth, 6+). Three-tenths behind WOJO is iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT, which is an overall -9.4 via three consecutive declines (13.3 – 5.0 – 4.4 – 3.9, sixth to seventh, 6+); “93.9 Lite FM” was a combined +10.1 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (3.2 – 8.4 – 13.3, 6+). This is the fifth time in a row that co-owned WEBG is without a loss and “Big 95.5 Chicago’s New Country” is up two-tenths in that stretch (1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.6, #23, 6+). Its format foe – Entercom-owned WUSN “US-99 Chicago’s Hottest Country” – forfeits four-tenths after February’s +.2 (3.0 – 2.6, 6+) and slides from #13 to #17.

San Francisco

Spoken-Word Formats –With a December 2018 through March 2019 topline of 2.3 – 2.1 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 2.3 (6+), Cumulus Media news/talk KSFO progresses from #17 to #15. Owing to six successive down or flat sweeps, cluster-mate KGO is a collective -.7 (2.2 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 1.8 – 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.5, 6+) and carries on at #24.

Co-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” is off three-tenths in February/March (2.9 – 2.8 – 2.6, 6+); the Giants flagship remains at #13. Logging a 1.8 (6+) for the third time in the last four sweeps (1.8 – 2.0 – 1.8 – 1.8, 6+), Entercom’s similarly-formatted KGMZ “95.7 The Game” departs the top twenty (#20 to #22).

After posting three consecutive upticks for an overall +1.7 (5.3 – 5.7 – 5.8 – 7.0, 6+), all-news cluster-mate KCBS-AM is off six-tenths in February/March (7.0 – 6.5 – 6.4, 6+) but retains the runner-up slot.

Up two-tenths after February’s decline of nine-tenths (8.0 – 7.1 – 7.3, 6+), Northern California Public Broadcasting news/talk KQED is on top for the third straight month. Following 11 months in succession at #1, KQED fell to #2 in “Holiday” 2018. Having more than tripled (+.9) its 6+-share in nine successive sweeps without a loss (.4 – .5 – .5 – .5 – .6 – .6 – .7 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.3, 6+), San Francisco Unified School District’s KALW “91.7 Local Public Radio” suspends that streak by dropping two-tenths to 1.1 (#27 to #28, 6+).

San Francisco Music Formats – Advancing from seventh to sixth, Cumulus Media classic rocker KSAN “107.7 The Bone” is +1.1 in three successive upticks (2.6 – 3.1 – 3.3 – 3.7, 6+). Tacking on six-tenths to February’s increase of four-tenths (2.0 – 2.4 – 3.0, #16 to #11, 6+), Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KBRG “Amor 100.3” has its best 6+-showing (3.0) since September 2018’s 3.1. Completely erasing February’s -.5 with a March +.5 to 4.8 (6+), KOIT-FM “96.5 Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites” continues in fourth-place. The Bonneville-owned adult contemporary improved its 6+-stat by seven full-shares in December/“Holiday” 2018, (3.7 – 6.4 – 10.7, 6+), but was a combined -6.4 in January/February (10.7 – 4.8 – 4.3, 6+). Steady at #3, similarly-formatted KISQ “98.1 The Breeze” is  a collective +1.2 via three consecutive gains (3.8 – 4.3 – 4.9 – 5.0, 6+). Prior to January, the iHeartMedia outlet had been off a combined nine-tenths in three setbacks in a row (4.7 – 4.4 – 4.1 – 3.8, 6+). A loss of six-tenths (2.9 – 2.3, 6+) sends co-owned KOSF “iHeart 80s @ 103.7” from #12 to #15. By dropping three-tenths to 2.3 (#14 to #15, 6+), Univision Radio regional Mexican KSOL “Que Buena” interrupts at five its consecutive string of up or flat trends that netted six-tenths (2.0 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 2.1 – 2.3 – 2.6, 6+).

Dallas

Spoken-Word Formats – Although unchanged at #15, Cumulus Media’s WBAP “News Talk 820” gains eight-tenths via three straight positive spikes (2.3 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 3.1, 6+), nearly wiping away its -.9 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (3.2 – 2.7 – 2.3, 6+). For the third month in a row, Salem Media Group-owned KSKY “660 AM The Answer” posts a .7 (6+) and remains at #34, while Cumulus Media’s KLIF-AM “570 News & Information” adds one-tenth in back-to-back sweeps (.3 – .4 – .5, flat at #36, 6+).

Sports talk cluster-mate, KTCK “The Ticket All Sports All The Time,” is in an alternating down/up pattern (2.9 – 2.4 – 2.9 – 2.6 – 2.7, #17 to #16, 6+). In seven straight sweeps without a loss (2.1 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.6 – 2.6 – 3.1, 6+), Entercom’s KRLD-FM was a +1.0, but “105.3 The Fan” is now -1.4 in February/March (3.1 – 2.5 – 1.7, 18, 6+) and departs the top twenty (#18 to #22). Meanwhile, Disney/ESPN’s KESN “103.3 ESPN Dallas” is off for the sixth time in succession and has had its 6+-share sliced in half (-.6) in that timeframe (1.2 – 1.2 – 1.1 – 1.0 – .9 – .8 – .6, #33 to #35, 6+).

Flat at #19, Entercom news-talk hybrid KRLD-AM is without a loss for the third month in a row for a gain of three-tenths (2.0 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.3, 6+); going back to “Holiday” 2016, “News Radio 1080” remains within a (6+) high of 2.8 and a low of 2.0.

Not only is KERA a collective +.8 via three improvements in a row (3.1 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 3.9, 6+), the North Texas Public Broadcasting news/talk outlet zooms into the top ten (#12 to #7).

Dallas Music Formats – An increase of six-tenths (1.8 – 2.4, #18, 6+) enables Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KYDA “Air 1 Worship Now” to log its strongest 6+-showing (2.4) since December 2016 (2.4, as well). Conversely, WAY Media’s similarly-formatted KAWA “WAY-FM, Uplifting-Upbeat-Real,” which was up one-half share in February (1.8 – 2.3, 6+), craters by -1.2 to 1.1 and fades from the top thirty (#19 to #31). Bumping up by one-half share (each) and finishing back-to-back are iHeartMedia hot AC KDMX “Now 102.9” (3.8 – 4.3, sixth to fifth, 6+) and Univision Radio regional Mexican KLNO “Que Buena 94.1” (3.7 – 4.2, ninth to sixth, 6+). This (4.3) is the highest 6+-share for KDMX since July 2018 (4.3, as well) and KLNO’s best (4.2) since September 2018’s 4.2. Unchanged at 6.3 (6+), iHeartMedia CHR KHKS “106.1 Kiss – Dallas/Fort Worth’s Hit Music” is #1 for the third month in a row. On top 12 straight times, “Kiss” shifted to #3 in “Holiday” 2018. Off seven-tenths (2.9 – 2.2, 6+), Entercom regional Mexican KMVK “La Grande 107.5” fades from the top twenty (#15 to #21). In February, Cumulus Media country siblings KPLX “99.5 The Wolf” and KSCS “New Country 96.3” were tied for fourth-place; however, as “The Wolf” adds three-tenths (4.1 – 4.4, 6+) and remains at #4, “New Country” regresses by one-half share to 3.6 (fourth to ninth, 6+). In addition to losing approximately half (-3.6) its 6+-share in three successive drops (7.1 – 4.2 – 3.7 – 3.5, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary KDGE exits the top ten (#9 to #11). In eight successive sweeps without a loss, “Star 102.1” almost tripled (+4.4) its 6+-stat (2.7 – 2.9 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.5 – 3.7 – 5.1 – 7.1, 6+).

Houston

Spoken-Word Formats – Relinquishing the three-tenths it gained in February (3.6 – 3.9 – 3.6, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk KTRH departs the top ten (#10 to #12). “News Radio 740” was -.7 in December (4.3 – 3.6, 6+); -.7 in “Holiday” 2018 (3.6 – 2.9, 6+); and +.7 in January 2019 (2.9 – 3.6, 6+).

After losing a combined half-share in January/February, Entercom’s KILT-AM “Sports Radio 610” is unchanged from February in 6+-share (.9) and 6+-market rank (#22). Up or flat six sweeps in succession for a net gain of three-tenths (.6 – .8 – .8 – .8 – .8 – .9 – .9, 6+), Gow Communications’ sports talk KFNC “ESPN 97.5” has that streak suspended with a loss of one-tenth to .8 (#22 to #24, 6+). Continuing at #27, iHeartMedia-owned/Houston Astros flagship KBME “Sports Talk 790” has a December 2018 through March 2019 topline of .6 – .5 – .6 – .5 – .6 (6+).

Following a January gain of eight-tenths, University of Houston news/talker KUHF is off a combined three-tenths in February/March (2.7 – 2.6 – 2.4, #18 to #19, 6+).

Houston Music Formats – An overall -2.0 in six successive sweeps without an increase (5.7 – 5.0 – 4.9 – 4.2 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.7, 6+), Entercom adult hits KKHH “95.7 The Spot” answers in February/March with a combined +1.4 (3.7 – 4.2 – 5.1, ninth to fifth, 6+); 5.1 is its strongest 6+-stat since August 2018’s 5.7. Having logged a 3.9 (6+) in three of the last four sweeps (3.9 – 3.9 – 4.3 – 3.9, 6+), Cox Media Group country outlet KKBQ “93-Q” busts out a +.8 to 4.7 (tenth to ninth, 6+). At the same time, Entercom’s similarly-formatted KILT-FM “100.3 The Bull,” which had been +1.7 via three positive spikes in a row (3.5 – 3.8 – 4.5 – 5.2, 6+), is off two-tenths to 5.0 (fifth to sixth, 6+). The three most recent fluctuations for Univision Radio regional Mexican KLTN “Que Buena 102.9” are +.5 in January (6.5 – 7.0, 6+); -.8 in February (7.0 – 6.2, 6+); and now +.5 in March (6.2 – 6.7, steady at #2). Prior to plummeting -1.5 in “Holiday” 2018, “Que Buena 102.9” was a collective +3.3 through five successive increases (4.7 – 5.0 – 5.2 – 6.0 – 6.8 – 8.0, 6+). While iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA is #1 for the 12^th straight time, “Sunny 99.1” is an overall -3.9 in three slips in succession (12.1 – 8.6 – 8.5 – 8.2, 6+). Prior to this slide, KODA was a cumulative +4.9 via three consecutive positive spikes (7.2 – 7.5 – 9.7 – 12.1, 6+). Down or flat for the fifth consecutive ratings period for a collective loss of eight-tenths (2.7 – 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.0 – 1.9, 6+), Liberman Broadcasting regional Mexican KTJM “La Raza” repeats at #21.

Atlanta

Spoken-Word Formats – It’s been an up and down ride lately for Cox Media Group news/talk WSB-AM, which erased two-thirds of December/“Holiday” 2018’s combined -2.1 with a January 2019 +1.4. It was then -.9 in February and now picks up one-tenth (7.0 – 7.1, 6+) to finish at #1 for the third straight month. WSB-AM had been on top 37 sweeps in a row before segueing to #2 in “Holiday” 2018. As a result of three straight up or flat moves (1.2 – 1.2 – 1.3  1.4, 6+), Cumulus Media news/talk WYAY “106.6 Where Atlanta Comes to Talk” gains two-tenths and moves from #23 to #22. Tied at #29 are Entercom news/talk WAOK “1380 The Voice of the Community,” off four-tenths in three dips in a row (.7 – .5 – .4 – .3, 6+), and Salem Media Group-owned WGKA “AM 920 The Answer,” which is trending .2 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .3 – .3 (6+).

Despite returning the three-tenths it gained in February (3.7 – 4.0 – 3.7, 6+), Entercom sports talk WZGC “92.9 The Game” actually inches up from tenth to ninth. Up one-tenth (1.6 – 1.7, 6+), Dickey Broadcasting’s Atlanta Braves flagship WCNN “Sports Radio The Fan” returns to the top twenty (#22 to #20).

With the largest (6+) February 2019 – March 2019 decrease of any station in the 12 PPM-markets highlighted here (4.8 – 3.4, -1.4, 6+), City of Atlanta Board of Education news/talk WABE drifts from the top ten (#9 to #13). Down or flat the past four sweeps for a collective loss of three-tenths (1.0 – .7 – .7 – .7 – .7, 6+), Georgia State University news/talk WRAS adds one-tenth to .8 (6+) but stays at #26.

Atlanta Music Formats – The market’s (6+) urban AC share balloons by +1.4, nearly equally divided between Cox Media Group-owned WALR “Kiss 104.1 Atlanta’s R&B” (+.8, seventh to fourth, 6+) and Radio One’s WAMJ “Majic” (+.6, steady at #2, 6+), which is a solid +2.5 via its third successive uptick (4.4 – 5.4 – 6.3 – 6.9, 6+). “Kiss” is +1.4 in February/March (4.5 – 5.1 – 5.9, 6+). Locked on 3.4 (6+) in “Holiday” 2018 and January 2019 before dropping to 3.0 (6+) in February, iHeartMedia CHR WWPW “Power 96.1 Atlanta’s #1 Hit Music Station” breaks out a +.7 to 3.7 (6+) and cracks the top ten (#15 to #9). It overtakes format rival – Cumulus Media-owned CHR WWWQ “Q-100 Atlanta’s New Hits” – which is flat at 3.5 (flat at #11, 6+). “Q-100” logged a +.7 in January but forfeited six-tenths in February. Tacking on six-tenths to February’s one-half share increase (4.6 – 5.1 – 5.7, 6+), Cox Media Group adult contemporary WSB-FM “B-98.5” progresses from seventh to fifth. A “Holiday” 2018 increase of one-half share halted at three WSB-FM’s consecutive string of decreases that accounted for a loss of four-tenths (5.5 – 5.4 – 5.3 – 5.1, 6+); “B-98.5” was off by -1.0 in January. Four successive gains by Radio One urban contemporary WHTA accounted for an overall +1.9 (3.3 – 3.6 – 3.9 – 4.1 – 5.2, 6+), but “Hot 107.9” forfeits roughly one-third of that bounty with a six-tenths’ drop to 4.6 (sixth to eighth, 6+). Co-owned WAMJ-HD2, nearly tripled (+1.3) its 6+-stat in five consecutive sweeps without a loss (.7 – .7 – .7 – .9 – 1.1 – 2.0, 6+), but it surrenders one-half share to 1.5 (6+) and exits the top twenty (#18 to #21). The one-tenth advantage that iHeartMedia’s WUBL “94.9 The Bull” had over its country foe, Cumulus Media-owned WKHX “Kicks 101.5 – Atlanta’s #1 For Country Hits,” grows to six-tenths as “The Bull” is up two-tenths 3.3 – 3.5 (#13 to #11), while “Kicks” falters by three-tenths (3.2 – 2.9, #14 to #16, 6+). WUBL was a collective +1.4 via four straight increases (2.9 – 3.5 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.3, 6+), before eroding by -1.0 in February. WKHX rebounded from January’s loss of six-tenths with an identical magnitude increase in February (2.6 – 3.2, +.6).

Philadelphia

Spoken-Word Formats – Frozen on 2.5 (6+) in January and February, Entercom’s WPHT “Talk Radio 1210” is off two-tenths to 2.3 (#17 to #18, 6+). Up or flat the past three sweeps for a net gain of two-tenths (1.3 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.5, 6+), Townsquare Media news/talk WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” drops one-tenth to 1.4 (#22 to #23, 6+).

Bouncing back from February’s -1.3 with a March increase of two-tenths (7.2 – 5.9 – 6.1, 6+), Entercom sports talk/Phillies flagship WIP advances from sixth to fourth. “Sports Radio 94.1” was -.8 (February 2018); -2.9 (March); +1.1 (April); -.8 (May); -.5 (June); +.7 (August); +1.4 (October); -1.0 (November); +.8 (“Holiday” 2018); and -1.3 (February 2019). Steady at #14, Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” – the key station of the 76ers and Flyers – has an October 2018 – March 2019 topline of 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 2.7 – 2.9 – 3.0 (6+).

Down eight-tenths in “Holiday” 2018, Entercom’s KYW rebounded in January with a +.7 (4.3 – 5.0, 6+), but “News Radio 1060” is a combined -.6 in February/March (5.0 – 4.6 – 4.4, flat at #9, 6+).

Up by three-tenths in January/February (2.7 – 2.9 – 3.0, 6+), public news/talk WHYY falters by four-tenths to 2.6 (#13 to #16, 6+).

Philadelphia Music Formats – A one-half share gain by Entercom-owned WBEB “Today’s 101.1 More FM” (6.5 – 7.0, 6+), coupled with a loss of three-tenths by classic hits-oldies sibling WOGL “98.1 – Nobody Plays More 80s” (7.1 – 6.8, 6+) results in WBEB progressing from third to first and WOGL segueing from first to second. A combined +2.1 in January/February (5.0 – 6.3 – 7.1, 6+), immediately after a December/“Holiday” 2018 -2.4 (7.4 – 6.4 – 5.0, 6+), WOGL jumped from a three-way January tie for third to first in February. WOGL finished on top in August 2018 and segued to second in September. This market’s pacesetter from March 2018 through June before being dislodged in July, WBEB was +10.1 (6.5 – 10.4 – 16.6, 6+) just prior to January 2019’s -10.3 (16.3 – 6.3, 6+); it gained two-tenths in February. WBEB’s format challenger, iHeartMedia’s WISX “106.1 The Breeze – Relaxing Favorites,” is unchanged from February in 6+-share (4.8) and 6+-rank (eighth). Formerly rhythmic hot AC “Real 106.1,” WISX became adult contemporary “106.1 The Breeze” in mid-November (2018). It was off eight-tenths in its first report as an AC (December 2018), but is now a combined +2.3 in four up or flat trends (2.5 – 3.0 – 4.4 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+). Unchanged at #7, Beasley Media Group-owned WXTU “92.5 Philly’s Country Station” is a collective +1.4 via three straight gains (3.6 – 4.5 – 4.9 – 5.0, 6+). Owing to three successive improvements, co-owned WMMR “93.3 Everything That Rocks” is an overall +1.7 (4.9 – 6.0 – 6.4 – 6.6, fourth to third, 6+). Conversely, cluster-mate WMGK “Classic Rock 102.9 MGK” is a combined -1.3 in February/March (7.1 – 6.7 – 5.8, 6+) and falls from second to sixth.

Long Island

Spoken-Word Formats – A combined +.4 in January/February (2.1 – 2.4 – 2.5, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WOR “710 The Voice of New York” forfeits three-tenths in March (2.2, #14 to #19, 6+). Up or flat for the fourth straight time in Long Island for a net gain of two-tenths (1.3 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5, 6+), Cumulus Media news/talk WABC progresses from #26 to #25.

Repeating in fourth-place, Entercom sports talk WFAN is up one-tenth (4.3 – 4.4, 6+), following February’s loss of three-tenths. Similarly-programmed WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” bounces back as well from February’s -.3 with a gain of two-tenths (1.6 – 1.8, #24 to #21, 6+).

As Entercom all-news WCBS-AM picks up two-tenths (3.1 – 3.3, flat at #11, 6+), co-owned/similarly-formatted WINS regresses by one-half share (3.5 – 3.0, #10 to #13, 6+). Tied in December and separated by one-tenth of a share in November, these two siblings were a combined +1.3 in January.

Unlisted in October 2018 and November, WNYC Broadcasting Foundation news/talk WNYC-FM resurfaced in December (2.0, #17, 6+); was off three-tenths in “Holiday” 2018 (1.7, #19, 6+); added four-tenths in January 2019; but is down one-half share in February/March (2.1 – 2.0 – 1.6, #20 to #22, 6+).

Long Island Music Formats – An overall -1.7 as the result of seven straight down or flat moves (3.9 – 3.8 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.1 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.2, 6+), Emmis urban AC WBLS “107.5 – #1 For R&B” pulls the plug on that slide with a +1.1 to 3.3 (#18 to #11, 6+). There is another significant shift for classic hits-oldies sibling WBZO “103.1 Max FM,” whose five most recent moves are -.8 (December 2018); -.7 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.1 (January); -.5 (February); and now +.7 in March (3.0 – 3.7, #12 to #8, 6+). As a result of four successive sweeps without a loss, Cox Media Group-owned WBAB “102.3 Long Island’s Only Classic Rock” nets a +1.3 (3.1 – 3.1 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 4.4, eighth to fourth, 6+). As it advances from #18 to #15, Entercom hot AC WNEW-FM “NEW 102.7” logs its fourth up or flat report in succession for a +.8 (1.6 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 2.2 – 2.4, 6+) and has its strongest 6+-performance in Nassau-Suffolk (2.4) since August 2018 when it reached 2.6. Zooming into the top fifteen (#21 to a three-way logjam at #15), Connoisseur Media-owned WWSK “94.3 The Shark – Long Island’s Home For Everything That Rocks” is a cumulative +.9 in five straight up or flat trends (1.5 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 2.4, 6+). While it remains at #1 for the fifth straight time, hot AC cluster-mate WALK-FM “97.5 – Real Variety” has lost over half its 6+-share (-5.4) in three consecutive declines (10.5 – 6.0 – 5.9 – 5.1, 6+). “Real Variety” was a combined +6.1 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (4.4 – 6.5 – 10.5, 6+). Off eight-tenths as well in March is iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW “106.7 Lite FM” (fifth to tenth, 6+), which is a collective -5.8 through three drops in succession (9.2 – 4.6 – 4.2 – 3.4, 6+).

Riverside

Spoken-Word Formats – For the sixth consecutive sweep, iHeartMedia news talk KKDD “1290 News Talk IE” is without an increase (.4 – .2 – .2 -.2 – .1 – .1 – .1, #23 to #24, 6+).

Co-owned KPWK “Fox Sports Radio 1350 AM” (formerly KUBE), which had been down or flat the past five survey periods (.3 – .2 – .2 – .1 – .1 – .1, 6+) picks up one-tenth to .2 (#23 to #22, 6+). For the 15^th straight sweep, similarly-formatted/Los Angeles Angels-owned (LAA 1, LLC) KLAA “Angels Radio AM 830” is unlisted.

In a December 2018 through March 2019 down/up pattern (1.3 – 1.1 – 1.5 – 1.4 – 1.7, 6+), San Bernardino Community College news/talk KVCR pushes up from #12 to #11. Meanwhile, the September 2018 through February 2019 topline for Pasadena City College news/talk KPCC “The Voice of Southern California” is .3 – .6 – .4 – .3 – .2 – .3 – .2 – .1 (#21 to #24, 6+).

Riverside Music Formats – Although it remains in seventh-place, LC Media urban-rhythmic oldies KQIE “Old School 104.7” is a collective +1.6 in three successive upticks (2.1 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 3.7, 6+). Stuck on 1.8 (6+) in January and February, Anaheim Broadcasting’s KCAL-FM “96.7 Rockin’ The Empire” posts a one-half share increase to 2.3 (6+) and carries on in tenth-place. Up or flat the past three survey periods for a gain of six-tenths (6.7 – 7.2 – 7.3 – 7.3, 6+), classic hits-oldies sibling KOLA stumbles by one-half share to 6.8 (6+) but is anchored in the runner-up slot for the 11^th time in a row. KOLA hit #1 in May 2018 with a 6.5 (6+). It is chasing Entravision’s KLYY “Jose,” which is off for the fourth consecutive report for a collective -3.1 (10.5 – 8.5 – 8.2 – 8.1 – 7.4, 6+), but is #1 for the eleventh successive sweep. December 2018’s 10.5 marked the first time any Inland Empire (Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario) station reached double-figures (6+) since April 2015, when KLYY recorded a 10.4. Not only is KLRD “Air 1 Worship Now” a collective -1.9 via four successive negative trends (2.2 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.2 – .3, 6+), the Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian outlet drifts from #13 to #19. Locked on 4.6 (6+) in January and February, Univision Radio Spanish contemporary KLVE “107.5 K-Love” falters by one-half share to 4.1 (third to fourth, 6+). Even though co-owned Spanish adult hits KRCD posts its fifth consecutive up or flat trend for an overall +.2 (1.3 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.5, 6+) and is in one-share range (6+) for the 19^th successive ratings period, “Recuerdo” backslides from #11 to #12. After being without a loss the past seven reports netting one-half share (.1 – .2 – .2 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .6, 6+), Lazer Broadcasting regional Mexican KAEH “Radio Lazer” dips by two-tenths to .4 (#16 to #17, 6+).

San Jose

Spoken-Word Formats – While this marks KGO’s sixth straight San Jose sweep without an increase for an overall -1.1 (3.0 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.9, 6+), the Cumulus Media news/talk outlet climbs from #19 to #18. Netting one-half share via three straight modest gains (.9 – 1.2 – 1.4 – 15, 6+), co-owned news/talk KSFO moves from #25 to a four-way tie at #22.

Sports talk cluster-mate KNBR “The Sports Leader” is off three-tenths in February/March (3.4 – 3.3 – 3.1, 6+) yet manages to climb from ninth to eighth. By picking up two-tenths (1.5 – 1.7, 6+), Entercom sports talk KGMZ “95.7 The Game” returns to the top twenty (#23 to #20).

Without a loss the past four sweeps for a collective +1.4 (5.7 – 5.9 – 5.9 – 7.1 – 7.1, 6+), all-news sibling KCBS-AM regresses by four-tenths to 6.7 (second to third, 6+). January and February’s 7.1 is its best 6+-stat since June 2018’s 7.2.

A combined -.9 in January and February (7.1 – 6.9 – 6.2, 6+), Northern California Public Broadcasting news/talk KQED wipes away that deficit in its entirety with a +.9 to 7.1 (third to second, 6+). Unlisted in October 2018 and November, KQED returned with a 6.7 (December 2018, 6+). In December, San Francisco Unified School District news/talk KALW debuted with a .5 (6+). It added two-tenths in “Holiday” 2018; was flat in January 2019; and has added one-tenth in back-to-back (February/March) sweeps (.7 – .8 – .9, flat at #27, 6+).

San Jose Music Formats – Over and above being +1.5 via three positive spikes in succession (6.2 – 6.9 – 7.3 – 7.7, 6+), Alpha Media classic hits-oldies KBAY “94.5 Bay FM – The Bay’s Greatest Hits” repeats at #1. “Bay FM” was a combined -1.8 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (8.0 – 6.9 – 6.2, 6+), after being an overall +1.7 in October/November (6.3 – 6.9 – 8.0, 6+). Following four straight up or flat trends that accounted for a +1.4 (2.2 – 2.9 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.6, 6+), University of Southern California-owned classical outlet KDFC returns all but one-tenth of that increase (-1.3) in February/March (3.6 – 2.9 – 2.3, #12 to #16, 6+). Off one-half share (3.6 – 3.1, eighth to ninth, 6+), Empire Broadcasting’s KRTY “Hot Country 95.3” has its lowest 6+-share (3.1) in nearly four years (3.0, May 2015). In addition to slipping by three-tenths to 3.0 (6+), thus snapping at three its consecutive string of increases that generated an overall +1.0 (2.3 – 2.5 – 2.8 – 3.3, 6+), Univision Radio regional Mexican KSOL “Que Buena” exits the top ten (#9 to #11). In each of the past three sweeps, iHeartMedia hot AC KIOI “Star 101.3” posted a shift of eight-tenths: It was -.8 (4.6 – 3.8, “Holiday” 2018, 6+); +.8 (3.8 – 4.6, January 2019, 6+); and -.8 (4.6 – 3.8, February, 6+). In March, however, it is off two-tenths to 3.6 (6+) and continues in seventh-place. For the third straight month, Entercom adult contemporary KOIT-FM is unlisted in San Jose. As the result of five straight positive spikes (3.0 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.3 – 6.0 – 10.1, 6+), it was a cumulative +7.1 and reached #1 in “Holiday” 2018.

Middlesex-Somerset-Union

Spoken-Word Formats – Following January’s +1.2, WKXW relinquishes half that increase (-.6) in February/March (8.1 – 7.9 – 7.5, 6+), but the Townsquare Media news/talk outlet is on top for the third month in a row. “New Jersey 101.5” occupied the top spot six straight sweeps before shifting to #2 in “Holiday” 2018 with a -1.1. Stuck on 3.4 (6+) in January and February, iHeartMedia news/talk WOR slips by three-tenths to 3.1 (#12 to #14, 6+). January’s +1.0 completely erased the overall -1.0 in December/“Holiday” 2018. Following its .8 in “Holiday” 2018, Cumulus Media news/talk WABC notches a 1.0 (6+) for the third straight time and continues at #26.

Having regressed by one-half share in February, Entercom sports talk WFAN is unchanged in both 6+-share (3.0) and 6+-rank (#15). Similarly-programmed WEPN is a collective -1.0 in five straight reports without an increase (2.9 – 2.5 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 1.9, 6+) as “98.7 ESPN New York” departs the top twenty (#20 to #23).

A loss of one-tenth to 1.8 (#24 to #25, 6+) by Entercom all-news WINS curtails four straight gains that accounted for a one-half share increase (1.4 – 1.6 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.9, 6+). Co-owned/similarly-programmed WCBS-AM picks up two-tenths (2.2 – 2.4, 6+) and returns to the top twenty (#22 to #19).

It is tied at #19 with WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM which is down four-tenths to 2.4 (#17 to #19, 6+), cutting in half its combined January/February +.8 (2.0 – 2.5 – 2.8, 6+).

Middlesex Music Formats –Without an increase four successive times for a collective -1.1 (5.4 – 5.0 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 4.3, 6+), iHeartMedia mainstream CHR WHTZ “Z-100” bounces back with a combined +1.5 in three straight improvements (4.3 – 4.5 – 5.2 – 5.8, 6+) and continues in third-place. While unchanged at #5, Entercom classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM “101.1 New York’s Greatest Hits” is up six-tenths through three consecutive gains (4.0 – 4.3 – 4.4 – 4.6, 6+). In the rhythmic CHR contest, Emmis owned WQHT “Hot 97” picks up two-tenths to 3.2 (#15 to #13, 6+), thus drawing to a close five straight sweeps without an increase that accounted for a loss of seven-tenths (3.7 – 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.0 – 3.0, 6+). At the same time, iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WKTU “103.5 KTU” is up two-tenths as well (2.8 – 3.0, #17 to #15, 6+). With a one-half share increase (1.4 – 1.9, 6+), Beasley Media Group’s WDHA “105.5 The Rock of New Jersey” checks in at #23. Co-owned adult contemporary WMGQ “Magic 98.3 Today’s Hits – Yesterday’s Favorites,” however, has its third slip in a row for an overall -2.3 (5.8 – 4.5 – 4.3 – 3.5, sixth to ninth, 6+). Among hot ACs in the Middlesex-Somerset-Union report, Entercom’s WNEW-FM “NEW 102.7” is off two-tenths (3.6 – 3.4, 6+) and exits the top ten (#10 to #11), while Cumulus Media’s WPLJ “New York’s 95.5 PLJ,” which had been a collective +.5 in three consecutive sweeps without a loss (2.1 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.6, 6+), surrenders three-tenths to 2.3 (6+) and departs the top twenty (#19 to #21). The latter is in the process of being sold to Educational Media Foundation and will flip to contemporary Christian when the deal is finalized.

Tuesday, April 16, 2019

Round One of Nielsen’s March PPM Survey Released.  The first round of (6+) data from Nielsen Audio’s March PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey).  You can see all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here.  TALKERS magazine editor Mike Kinosian’s “Takeaways” from the March survey will appear at Talkers.com beginning tomorrow (4/17).

Francesa-Kay Battle at Center of New York Sports Talk Wars.  With the release of the March PPM survey data from Nielsen Audio yesterday, the battle between WFAN’s Mike Francesa and WEPN’s Michael Kay is back in the news.  Both afternoon drive sports talk shows are claiming victory in the “Winter Book” that uses the January, February and March PPM survey data.  The controversy lies in how one counts the numbers.  As Newsday reports, the issue here is whether not each station’s stream ratings are added to the over-the-air numbers.  Counting streams, Francesa beats Kay in Men 25-64 with 6.2 share to Kay’s 5.9 share.  But unlike WEPN, WFAN airs different spots in its stream and, WEPN would argue, WFAN doesn’t qualify for Total Line Reporting.  Taking away Francesa’s streaming numbers gives Kay a 5.9 to 5.5 (M 25-54) share advantage over Francesa.  No matter how one slices up the Nielsen numbers, neither host’s other avenues, such as Kay’s TV simulcast nor Francesa’s app data are taken into account in the “Winter Book” ratings.

Connoisseur and Cumulus Swap Stations in Allentown and Connecticut. This swap of assets gets Connoisseur Media two stations in the state of Connecticut in which it’s based – news/talk WICC-AM, Bridgeport and adult contemporary WEBE-FM, Westport – and it gives Cumulus Media four more stations for its Northeast Pennsylvania presence.  That group includes sports talk duo WEEX-AM and WTKZ-AM/W234AX, plus classic rock WODE-FM and alternative WWYY-FM.  The stations will begin being managed by the respective buyers under an LMA, effective May 1.  Connoisseur Media SVP and market manager Kristin Okesson says, “As a lifelong Connecticut resident and the former general sales manager of WEBE/WICC, it is my privilege to lead these stations.  The combined reach of our portfolio will offer exciting opportunities for our partners and to the communities we serve.”

WBRP, Baton Rouge Cuts Three Talk Personalities. Baton Rouge news/talk station WBRP “Talk 107.3” made what general manager Gordy Rush tells local TV outlet WAFB was a “business decision” and let go of morning show team Kevin Gallagher and Bill Profita as well as late morning talk host Clarence Buggs.  The Guaranty Media station’s morning show is cut to two hours and is now being hosted by program director Brian Haldane.  The late morning daypart is being filled by FOX News Radio host Brian Kilmeade from 8:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by Todd Starnes from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm.

SiriusXM Making Its Talk Hosts Available Via Podcasts on Pandora. This content sharing will make audio from SiriusXM’s talk talent – from its entertainment, talk, comedy, music, and sports programming – available to Pandora subscribers via the newly announced Podcasts on Pandora platform.  The service will use the company’s Podcast Genome Project technology to recommend podcasts. SiriusXM president and chief content officer Scott Greenstein says, “We’re excited that some of our most popular talk shows are now being made available to Pandora users.  This will be a great opportunity for new audiences to discover these SiriusXM shows, while providing Pandora with great programming, as we continue to collaborate on content opportunities for both platforms.”

2019 Gracie Award Winners Announced. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation announces the winners of the 44th annual Gracie Awards being celebrated at The Gracie Awards Gala in Beverly Hills on Tuesday, May 21 and at the Gracie Awards Luncheon in New York on June 26.   Some of the honorees include Sean Hannity radio show producer Lynda McLaughlin; Angela Yee of the urban morning drive show “The Breakfast Club”; syndicated country radio star Elaina Smith; Jayde Donovan of “The Jayde Show”; Jillian Barberie of “The Morning Drive” on KABC-AM, Los Angeles and more.  Alliance for Women in Media Foundation executive director Becky Brooks says, “Our leadership is proud to honor the best of the best who embody the spirit and intention of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation’s Gracie Awards.”  Christine Travaglini, president of Katz Radio Group and chair of the board of directors adds, “In the more than four decades since the inception of the Gracie Awards – what stands out in 2019 is bravery.  The courage of storytellers to share poignant, relevant and compelling content. This will be a year of true celebration.” See all the winners here.

TALKERS News Notes. The KTRH, Houston-based Michael Berry show called on its listeners to assist military veterans with PTSD – seeking the donation of 1,000 suits – and brought in more than 5,000. Berry says, “The reason talk radio is a great format for advertisers is the reason it is the best platform for charitable events: community engagement.  It’s not a passive medium.  Listeners are engaged; they share our values.  They respond when we put out the call.  In this case, it was for our veterans, but it’s also the case when we endorse goods and services provided by people who share our values.” Berry is the national spokesman for PTSD Foundation of America, that operates Camp Hope, a residential treatment center committed to reducing the 22 suicides per day our veteran community is experiencing.  The suits are being donated to assist veterans who are seeking employment after coming home from a war zone…..Today is Chicago newsman Bob Roberts’ last day on the job at Entercom’s all-news WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM.  Roberts is retiring after a long career in the radio news biz.  WBBM director of news and programming Ron Gleason says Roberts is “one of Chicago’s best reporters” and “an invaluable member of our team thanks to his tremendous knowledge of the Chicago area and its transit system.  He’s second to none during breaking news situations.”  See highlights from Roberts’ career here…..Pubcaster WHYY in Philadelphia is acquiring the digital news publication Billy Penn.   The Philadelphia Business Journal reports that the millennial-targeted publication’s staffers will become WHYY employees…..The podcast “Crime Junkie” expands on its relationship with cabana, the digital audio business of AdLarge Media, and is now the exclusive ad sales partner for “Crime Junkie.”…..The Omaha World-Herald reports the death of KLIN, Lincoln, Nebraska talk show host Coby Mach.  He hosted the daily 5:00 pm “Drive Time Lincoln” program on the NRG Media news/talk station. He also served as the president of the Lincoln Independent Business Association.  The paper reports that he was ending his show due to his dealing with tinnitus and his wife’s ongoing battle with breast cancer.  Lincoln police are saying the death of the 53-year-old host was an apparent suicide.  He wrote in a Facebook post, “It’s time to slow down…Thanks to the KLIN crew for some great years and a lot of fun.  Thanks to the listeners and advertisers who made it all possible!”

KIRO-FM, Seattle’s Dori Monson Performs Sold-Out Stage Show. KIRO-FM midday talk show host Dori Monson (pictured above on stage) packed the Kirkland Performance Center on Friday (4/12) for his inaugural “What Are The Odds? An Evening with Dori Monson” one-man stage show.  The sold-out event did include guest appearances by other KIRO Radio talent, including news anchor Ursula Reutin, Monson’s longtime friend Dave Wyman, show producer Nicole Thompson and more.  KIRO-FM promoted the show with the following: “Sometimes a hustler. Frequently incorrigible. Often a rascal. What are the odds that an aimless kid from old-school Ballard would grow up to become Seattle’s most fiery and most-listened-to radio talk show host?  Find out when you reserve a seat as KIRO Radio’s Dori Monson introduces you to the remarkable people who helped shape his improbable career.”

Southern Border Issue/Sanctuary Cities Proposal, Redacted Mueller Report Expected, Notre Dame Fire, 2020 Presidential Politics/Weld to Challenge Trump for GOP Nom, ‘Game of Thrones’ Season Premiere, Tiger Woods’ Masters Victory, NBA Playoffs and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (4/15).  The Southern Border migrant issue and the related proposal by President Trump to transport migrants to sanctuary cities; the anticipated release of the redacted version of the Mueller Report; the fire at the Notre Dame cathedral in Paris; the Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020 and Republican Bill Weld’s announced challenge to Trump’s GOP nomination; the premiere of the final season of “Game of Thrones”; Tiger Woods’ stunning Masters victory; NBA playoff action; and MLB action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Hannity, O’ Reilly and Rome Set to Keynote Talkers 2019: Telling the Story. The agenda continues to grow as the 22^nd annual installment of the talk media industry’s longest-running and most important annual convention takes shape for Friday, June 7 in New York City. Heading up a roster of more than 55 speakers will be Premiere Networks/Fox News Channel superstar Sean Hannity, Key Networks radio commentator, best-selling author and former FNC personality Bill O’Reilly, and CBS Sports Radio giant Jim Rome. Talkers 2019: Telling the Story will take place at the ultra-modern Helen Mills Event Space and Theater located in the colorful Chelsea district of Manhattan. Radio Advertising Bureau CEO Erica Farber will moderate a special panel focusing on the challenges facing talk radio sales and marketing in 2019. Senior VP programming WFAN and Entercom NY and CBS Sports Radio, captain/sports format Mark Chernoff will participate in a discussion about the state of sports talk radio. A general programming discussion will include Mike McVay, EVP, content and programming, Cumulus Media and Justin Chase, EVP programming, Beasley Media Group; Some of the other speakers already set to participate in the program include (in alphabetical order): Dr. Asa Andrew, host, Asa RX; Greg Batusic, chief operations officer, PodcastOne; Mike “Bax” Baxendale, host, WAQY, Springfield, MA “Rock 102”; Vince Benedetto, CEO, Bold Gold Media Group; Michael Berry, host, The Michael Berry Show; Grace Blazer, national brand coordinator, news/talk/sports programming and director of AM programming Miami/Fort Lauderdale, iHeartMedia; Jim Bohannon, host, Westwood One; Phil Boyce, SVP spoken word format, Salem Media Group and VP/operations, Salem Radio Network, New York Region; Howie Carr, host, The Howie Carr Show; Kathy Carr, president, The Howie Carr Show; Heather Cohen, EVP, The Weiss Agency; Michael Czarnecki, program director, WONK-FM, Washington, DC; Kate Delaney, host, NBC Sports; Alex Fife, VP/regional operations, Total Traffic & Weather Network – Southeast; Greg Foster, VP programming and national news/talk brand coordinator, iHeartMedia/PD, KOA, Denver; Dom Giordano, host, WPHT, Philadelphia; Steven Goldstein, founder/CEO, Amplifi Media; Sebastian Gorka, host, Salem Radio Network; Suzanne Grimes, EVP/marketing, Cumulus Media and president, Westwood One; Lee Habeeb, host/producer, Our American Stories; Thom Hartmann, host WYD Media; Bill Hess, VP of news/talk, Cumulus Media and program director, WMAL, Washington, DC; Harry Hurley, host, WPGG, Atlantic City; Andrew Kalb, executive director of programming, ABC News Radio; Brian Kilmeade, host, FOX News Radio/FOX News Channel; Scott Lakefield, assistant program director, WOR, New York; Greg Moceri, CEO, Moceri Media; John T. Mullen, operations manager, WRHU, Hofstra University; Bill O’ Reilly, commentator, Key Networks; Joe “Pags” Pagliarulo, host, The Joe Pags Show; Michael Riedel, host, WOR, New York; Dave Robinett, Chief Marketing Officer, #250 – America’s Mobile Speed Dial; Jim Rome, host, CBS Sports Radio; Sid Rosenberg, host, WABC, New York; Todd Starnes, host, Fox News Radio; Walter M. Sterling, host, Westwood One; Julie Talbott, president, Premiere Networks; Mike Thomas, program director, WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub,” Boston/brand manager for spoken word, podcasts, esports, Beasley Broadcasting; Rick Ungar, host, The Rick Ungar Program/editor-in-chief, TheDailyCentrist.com; Dr. Daliah Wachs, host, Genesis Communications Network; Brett Winterble, host KFMB-AM, San Diego; Dan Yorke, host, WPRO-AM/WEAN-FM, Providence; Rich Zeoli, host, WPHT, Philadelphia; and Michael Zwerling, owner, KSCO/KOMY, Santa Cruz. More speakers to be named in the days and weeks ahead along with a complete agenda. The conference will feature more than 50 top speakers from all aspects of the spoken-word media industry – including talent, programmers, managers and owners – with a focus on talk radio and its role in the rapidly accelerating digital age. This will include programming, sales, marketing, and technology as well as the full spectrum of concerns, challenges and opportunities facing modern day talk broadcasters and broadcasting organizations. It will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, fireside chats, one-on-one conversations and exhibits of the latest services and equipment available to broadcasting professionals. Like its predecessors, Talkers 2019: Telling the Story will also provide its attendees with unparalleled networking opportunities and social mixers including breakfast, lunch, and a closing cocktail reception — all in a single, power-packed day! Full agenda details, speaker roster and hotel information will be posted in TALKERS during the days and weeks ahead. As is customary with TALKERS conventions, Talkers 2019: Telling the Story is only open to members of the professional media industry and communications students. Because seating is limited and the event has been an early sellout every year since the 1990s, in order to maintain this policy, non-refundable registrations can only be purchased via telephone with a credit card. Full registration, including all functions, meals, and refreshments, costs $329 per person. To register or obtain sponsorship information, call Barbara Kurland at 413-565-5413. To take advantage of the hotel discount available to TALKERS convention attendees, contact the Hilton Fashion District Hotel located directly across the street from the venue at 152 W. 26th St, New York, NY 10001 by clicking here.

Music Radio News and Career Moves.  The big music radio story is Cumulus Media’s announced sale of classic rock KLOS, Los Angeles to Meruelo Media for $43 million in cash.  The deal was announced at the same time as the Connoisseur swap noted above.  Cumulus president and CEO Mary Berner says, “These transactions are part of the continued execution of our portfolio optimization strategy.  Both transactions are accretive, and the sale of KLOS-FM to Meruelo Media at an attractive multiple allows us to generate substantial cash, which can be used to further pay down debt and invest in high-potential business opportunities.  The Connoisseur Media swap significantly strengthens our presence in Allentown and the Lehigh Valley.”  There’s no indication from Meruelo if it intends to make programming changes to KLOS or not…..Two big moves take place in the Seattle market as former Alpha Media EVP of programming Scott Mahalick joins Hubbard Radio’s cluster there as brand/content director for country KNUC “98.9 The Bull.”  At the same time, Hubbard Radio Seattle VP/market manager Ann Marie Mulholland announces the return of “Fitz in the Morning” to the Seattle airwaves. Mulholland says, “The country audience in Seattle has been without their favorite morning show host for too long.  I believe the dynamic duo of Fitz backed by Scott Mahalick will change the face of radio in Seattle.”…..Back in Los Angeles, iHeartMedia’s hip hop KRRL “REAL 92.3” grabs J Cruz away from crosstown competitor KPWR to host the afternoon show.  “The Cruz Show” had been heard in mornings on Meruelo’s Media’s KPWR.  Joining Cruz on his show will be executive producerJeff Garcia, DJ Lechero and DJ Lezlee.   KRRL program director Doc Wynter says, “iHeartMedia is all about attracting the very best on-air talent and I’m excited to add J Cruz to the growing list of super talents in our thriving Los Angeles market.  Big Boy in the mornings and J Cruz in the afternoons – I get chills just saying it!”…..Entercom names Boston radio personality Karen Blake the new afternoon drive host at adult contemporary WMJX-FM “Magic 106.7.”  Blake was most recently morning drive host on WQRC, Cape Cod.  In Boston she’d previously served in drive time at WODS-FM and the old WQSX-FM (now WEEI-FM). Blake says, “It is a privilege to return to the Entercom family.  I am looking forward to being part of an air staff that I’ve admired for years and am thrilled to be continuing my career in my hometown of Boston.”