TALKERS

October PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round One

October 2019 PPM Data – Information for the October 2019 ratings period has been released for New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Long Island (Nassau-Suffolk), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex (New Jersey). Nielsen Audio’s October 2019 survey period covered September 12 – October 9. Managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” from these PPM-markets below.

New York City

Spoken-Word Formats – Erasing its two-tenths loss in September with an October increase of three-tenths (2.0 – 1.8 – 2.1, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WOR “710 The Voice of New York” advances from #20 to #19. Continuing at #22, Townsquare Media’s similarly-formatted WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” is off a total of two-tenths via three straight down or flat trends (1.3 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.1, 6+). May’s one-tenth increase halted five straight sweeps without an improvement that resulted in an overall decline of four-tenths. Tied with WKXW is news/talk WABC, which is up two-tenths after September’s -.3 (1.2 – .9 – 1.1, #24 to #22, 6+).

Substituting September’s -.6 with an October +.6 (3.8 – 3.2 – 3.8, 6+), Entercom sports talk WFAN (Yankees,  Giants) returns to the top ten (#13 to #8). September’s 3.2 was its lowest 6+-showing since March (3.0). Off an overall four-tenths in three straight sweeps without an increase (2.0 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.6, 6+), WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” (Jets) is now +.5 in September/October (1.6 – 1.8 – 2.1, #20 to #19, 6+).

After picking up two-tenths in August, Entercom-owned all-news WINS repeats October’s 3.4 (#12 to #11, 6+). Locked on 2.5 (6+) in August and September, co-owned/similarly-formatted WCBS-AM (Mets) drops two-tenths to 2.3 (#15 to #17, 6+). Prior to August’s improvement of one-tenth, WCBS-AM faltered by a collective full-share via four straight declines (3.4 – 2.9 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.4, 6+).

Steady at #14, WNYC Broadcasting Foundation news/talk WNYC-FM is up an overall eight-tenths in four straight reports without a loss (2.1 – 2.1 – 2.3 – 2.6 – 2.9, 6+). Co-owned news/talk WNYC-AM has doubled (+.2) its 6+ AQH share in four consecutive up or flat trends (.2 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .4, #33 to #30, 6+).

New York City Music Formats – When Educational Media Foundation officially closed on its purchase of WPLJ from Cumulus Media on May 31, it transitioned the hot AC to contemporary Christian. The rather wobbly May 2019 through October 2019 topline for “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” is: 3.1 – 1.5 – .4 – 0.0 – .4 – 1.1 (#22, 6+). Stuck on 7.7 (6+) in August and September, iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW is down three-tenths to 7.4 (6+) but “106.7 Lite FM” is #1 the 28^th consecutive ratings period. Before erupting with a jump of nine-tenths in August, WLTW logged a 6.8 (6+) in May, June, and July. Its 7.7 (6+) in August and September matched what was recorded in March when “Lite FM” posted a one-half share increase. A combined -5.3 in January/February (12.5 – 7.6 – 7.2, 6+), WLTW was +5.8 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (6.7 – 9.1 – 12.5, 6+). Off just one-tenth in three straight down or flat trends (5.8 – 5.7 – 5.7 – 5.7, 6+), Entercom classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM “101.1 New York’s Greatest Hits” regains that one-tenth (5.8, 6+) and continues in the runner-up slot. Following four consecutive positive or neutral sweeps for an overall gain of eight-tenths (3.0 – 3.3 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.8, 6+), hot AC sibling WNEW-FM “NEW 102.7” drops two-tenths to 3.6 (eighth to ninth, 6+). In a similar situation, cluster-mate WNYL “Alt 92.3 – New York’s New Alternative,” which netted six-tenths in six straight reports without a decrease (1.9 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.5, 6+), has its positive streak snapped by forfeiting one-tenth to 2.4 (flat at #15, 6+). Having gained eight-tenths in four successive boosts (1.3 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 2.0 – 2.1, 6+), WNYC Broadcasting Foundation-owned WQXR “New York’s Classical Music Station” surrenders two-tenths to 1.9 (6+) and departs the top twenty (#19 to #21). Albeit steady in third-place, Emmis urban AC WBLS “107.5 #1 for R&B” is a collective -1.0 in three straight drops (6.3 – 5.8 – 5.5 – 5.3, 6+). At the same time, iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR WKTU “103.5 KTU” has lost an overall nine-tenths in three successive slips and exits the top ten (4.3 – 4.0 – 3.8 – 3.4, #8 to #11, 6+).

Los Angeles

Spoken-Word Formats – As a result of  four straight decreases (4.5 – 4.3 – 3.9 – 3.5 – 3.3, June – July – August – September – October, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk KFI is a collective -1.2 and shifts from seventh to eighth. “AM 640” was a combined +.8 in May/June (3.7 – 3.9 – 4.5, 6+). More than doubling (+.7) its 6+ AQH share via four straight up or flat trends (.6 – .8 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.3, 6+), Salem Media Group news/talk KRLA progresses from #30 to #29. Down three-tenths in September (1.0 – .7, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KEIB “AM 1150 The Patriot” regains one-tenth to .8 (#35 to #33, 6+). Pushing up from #38 to #35, Cumulus Media-owned KABC “790 News-Talk-Evolved” has more than doubled (+.4) its 6+ AQH share in three straight bumps (.3 – .4 – .5 – .7, 6+).

A combined +.5 in September/October (1.3 – 1.4 – 1.8, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KLAC “AM 570 LA Sports” (Dodgers, Chargers) jumps from #28 to #25. It has a seven-tenths advantage over Disney-owned KSPN “710 ESPN” (Angels, Rams), which is up three-tenths (.8 – .8 – 1.1, #33 to #32, 6+). In June and July, KLAC and KSPN were deadlocked at #27 (1.4, 6+).

Steady at #12, Entercom all-news KNX “1070 News Radio” has an April 2019 through October 2019 topline of: 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 2.6 – 2.7 – 2.6 (6+). Prior to picking up one-tenth in July, KNX had five straight negative or neutral monthlies accounting for a full-share loss in that January 2019 – June 2019 timeframe (3.7 – 3.6 – 3.1 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.7, 6+).

Not only is Pasadena City College news/talk KPCC an overall +.6 in four consecutive reports without a loss (1.8 – 1.9 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 2.4, 6+), “The Voice of Southern California” is back in the top twenty (#23 to #17).

Los Angeles Music Formats – Within 2.3 – 2.8 range (6+) in each of the last 18 ratings periods, Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KRCD busts out a +.6 to 3.2 (6+) and rockets into the top ten (#16 to #9, 6+). “Recuerdo” last reached the three-share level (6+) in April 2018 (3.0). Spanish contemporary cluster-mate KLVE “107.5 K-Love” is an overall +1.0 in its sixth straight sweep without a loss (3.0 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.2 – 3.5 – 4.0, seventh to fifth, 6+). “K-Love” last reached the four-share level in February 2018 (4.0, as well). Having been in a 5.8 – 5.9 – 5.8 – 5.9 pattern (June – July – August – September, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST falters by seven-tenths in October to 5.2 (6+). After setting the pace the past 12 ratings periods, “Coast 103.5” segues to the runner-up slot. Prior to January when it surrendered a -6.8 to 6.2 (6+), KOST was an overall +8.4 through five improvements in a row (4.6 – 4.7 – 4.9 – 5.1 – 9.0 – 13.0, 6+). Succeeding KOST at #1 is Entercom classic hits-oldies KRTH “K-Earth 101” (5.6 – 5.9, +.3, second to first, 6+ ). When “K-Earth” added six-tenths in September, it applied the brakes to three downward trends in succession that accounted for a net loss of eight-tenths (5.8 – 5.4 – 5.2 – 5.0, 6+). KRTH last reached the #1 spot exactly one year ago (October 2018, 5.0, 6+). Smooth AC sibling KTWV “94.7 The Wave,” which was a cumulative -1.0 in four consecutive down or flat reports (5.2 – 5.0 – 4.8 – 4.8 – 4.2, 6+), picks up three-tenths to 4.5 (flat at #4, 6+). September’s 4.2 is the lowest 6+-stat for KTWV since “Holiday” 2018’s 3.6. Flat in ninth-place, Meruelo Media Holdings’ KLOS “95.5 Southern California’s Classic Rock” drops one-tenth to 3.2 (6+), thus snapping at nine its successive string of up or flat trends that yielded nine-tenths (2.4 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.6 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.3, 6+). Likewise, co-owned Spanish contemporary KLLI “Cali 93.9 – #1 For Reggaeton y Mas,” which doubled (+.9) its 6+-stat via four straight reports without a loss (.9 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.5 – 1.8, 6+), sees that streak ended with a -.4 to 1.4 (#24 to #28, 6+). In that same cluster, rhythmic CHR KPWR “Power 106” is off a collective six-tenths in four straight down or flat moves (3.1 – 3.1 – 2.8 – 2.7 – 2.5, #12 to #14, 6+). Following five successive sweeps without a loss for an overall +1.2 (4.1 – 4.5 – 4.6 – 4.6 – 5.3 – 5.3, 6+), iHeartMedia hot AC KBIG “104.3 My-FM” surrenders four-tenths to 4.9 (6+) but repeats at #3. The 5.3 in August and September is KBIG’s strongest 6+-showing in just over one year (5.5, September 2018). In four consecutive sweeps without a decrease (2.2 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 2.7, 6+), Mount Wilson FM Broadcasters’ KKGO was up a collective one-half share to 2.7, its best 6+-performance since “Holiday” 2018 (2.7, as well). In October., however, “Go Country 105 FM” forfeits one-tenth to 2.6 (6+) and is unchanged at #12. The market’s two alternative outlets are separated by three-tenths of a share (6+). Specifically, iHeartMedia-owned KYSR “Alt 98.7” is down four-tenths (2.5, #11 to #14), while Entercom-owned KROQ is off two-tenths (2.2, #15 to #19, 6+). In each case, a positive streak is broken. KYSR had gained seven-tenths in four consecutive sweeps without a loss (2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.7 – 2.9, 6+), whereas KROQ was +.5 as a result of four successive up or neutral reports (1.9 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 2.4 – 2.4, 6+).

Chicago

Spoken-Word Formats – A combined +.7 in September/October (2.8 – 3.2 – 3.5, 6+), Tribune Media news/talk WGN (White Sox) is back in the top ten (#12 to #9) with its best 6+-showing since February (3.5, as well). WGN was locked on 2.9 (6+) in April and May and then on 3.0 (6+) in June and July. Shaking off a September loss of four-tenths with an October improvement of six-tenths (2.1 – 1.7 – 2.3, 6+), Cumulus Media news/talk WLS-AM “890 AM” reenters the top twenty (#21 to #19).

Even though it is up an overall half-share in three straight sweeps without a loss (3.8 – 4.1 – 4.3 – 4.3, 6+), Entercom sports talk WSCR “670 The Score” (Cubs) backslides from fifth to sixth. Disney/ESPN-owned WMVP “ESPN Chicago 1000” gains two-tenths in consecutive sweeps (1.4 – 1.6 – 1.8, #23 to #21, 6+).

An overall -1.4 via eight successive down or neutral moves (6.2 – 6.1 – 5.8 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 4.8 – 4.8 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+), Entercom all-news WBBM-AM (Bears) pulls the plug with a +.1 to 4.9 (flat at #4, 6+). WBBM-AM finished on top in January, February, and March.

In four successive upticks, Chicago Public Media news/talk WBEZ gains eight-tenths (2.5 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 3.3, 6+) and climbs from #15 to #12.

Chicago Music Formats – Over and above posting the largest (6+) September 2019 to October 2019 increase  by any station in the 10 PPM-markets highlighted here, Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WTMX “101.9 The Mix” (4.2 – 5.5, +1.3, 6+) vaults from sixth to first. “The Mix” exited the top spot in September when it plummeted by -1.5 (5.7 – 4.2, 6+). In July, the combination of a three-tenths uptick by WTMX classic rock sibling WDRV “97.1 The Drive” and an equal margin decrease by “The Mix” resulted in the cluster-mates swapping places at first and second. In August, “The Mix” notched a +.5 (5.2 – 5.7, 6+) and proceeded from second to first. WTMX was #1 in April, May, and June before giving way to “The Drive” in July; April’s 5.9 was the highest 6+-stat for “Mix” since November 2017’s 6.3. It proves to be a September-only stay at #1 for iHeartMedia urban AC WVAZ, which drops three-tenths to 5.4 (first to second, 6+). Moreover, “V-103” curtails its string of three straight bumps that yielded a collective +1.4 (4.3 – 4.9 – 5.0 – 5.7, 6+). In September, WVAZ recorded its best 6+-stat since October 2018 (5.7, as well), which had been the last time “V-103” reached #1. Bouncing back from September’s loss of two-tenths with an October improvement of one-half share (3.1 – 2.9 – 3.4, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting adult contemporary WSHE “100.3 SHE” leaps from #15 to #10. Before faltering by one-half share in May, WSHE notched an overall increase of eight-tenths via four consecutive positive or flat moves (2.5 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.3, 6+). It is tied in tenth-place with Venture Technologies Group-owned adult contemporary WRME-LP “FM 87.7 – Me TV,” which is a combined +.5 in September/October ( 2.9 – 3.3 – 3.4, #11 to #10, 6+). After logging three gains in a row for a collective increase of six-tenths (2.5 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 3.1, 6+), WRME-LP returned two-tenths in August. Having posted a 2.7 (6+) three times in the last six reports (2.7 – 3.0 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 2.6 – 2.7, 6+), Entercom-owned WUSN “US-99 Chicago’s Hottest Country” falters by seven-tenths to 2.0 (#18 to #20, 6+). In addition to being a combined -.8 in September/October (3.8 – 3.5 – 3.0, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR WKSC “103.5 Kiss-FM Chicago’s #1 Hit Music Station” drifts from the top ten (#8 to #14) and has its lowest 6+-showing (3.0) since March (2.9). A collective +.8 in six successive sweeps without a loss (2.6 – 2.8 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.4 – 3.4, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WKQX “The New Home For Alternative” forfeits three-tenths to 3.1 (6+) and exits the top ten (#10 to #13). Window to the World Communications’ WFMT “98.7 – Chicago’s Classical and Folk Music Radio” is without an increase the seventh time in a row and has lost roughly half (-.6) its 6+ AQH share in that timeframe (1.3 – 1.2 – 1.1 – 1.0 – .8 – .8 – .8 – .7, #29 to #31, 6+).

San Francisco

Spoken-Word Formats. Reentering the top twenty (#22 to #19), Cumulus Media news/talk KSFO is in a (repetitive) June 2019 through October 2019 pattern of 2.0 – 1.7 – 2.0 – 1.7 – 2.0 (6+). July 2019’s 1.7 (6+) marked the first time KSFO fell below a two-share since July 2017’s 1.8. Cluster-mate KGO, which recorded a  June 2019 through September 2019 topline of: 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.5 (6+), is up two-tenths to 1.7 (#25 to #23, 6+). Repeating September’s .3 (6+), iHeartMedia-owned KKSF-AM “Real Talk 910 – Think Forward” climbs from #34 to #33.

Down seven-tenths in September, Cumulus Media sports talk KNBR-AM “The Sports Leader” (Giants, 49ers) answers with a +.3 to 4.0 (seventh to sixth, 6+). Less than a week before the September ratings period concluded (9/6), co-owned triple A KFOG jettisoned its longtime music format and became sports talk KNBR-FM (1.0 – .9, -.1, #28, 6+). KNBR-FM disappears from print in October and is now listed as a simulcast with KNBR-AM. Up three-tenths in September/October (1.5 – 1.6 – 1.8, 6+), Entercom’s similarly-formatted KGMZ “95.7 The Game” moves from #24 to #22. KGMZ nearly doubled (+1.5) its 6+-stat in three straight sweeps without a loss, (1.8 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 3.3, 6+) and then had three consecutive declines that accounted for a -1.8 (3.3 – 3.0 – 1.9 – 1.5, 6+).

In a first-place tie in September, KGMZ all-news sibling KCBS-AM (Raiders) busts out a +.6 (6.4 – 7.0, 6+) and takes sole possession of the top spot. Prior to September, KCBS-AM last reached #1 in May.

KCBS-AM had been deadlocked at the top with Northern California Public Broadcasting news/talk KQED; however, KQED falters by -1.2 in September/October (7.1 – 6.4 – 5.9, 6+) and slips to #2. KQED had been at #1 the past four sweeps – August’s 7.1 was its best 6+-stat since 7.3 in March. San Francisco Unified School District’s KALW “91.7 Local Public Radio” is without an increase the third straight time for an overall -.3 (1.0 – .9 – .7 – .7, #31 to #30, 6+).

San Francisco Music Formats – Down a total of three-tenths in three straight sweeps without an increase (3.6 – 3.6 – 3.4 – 3.3, 6+), iHeartMedia urban contemporary KMEL “#1 For Hip-Hop and R&B” posts an improvement of six-tenths to 3.9 (tenth to seventh, 6+). KMEL is within 3.0 – 3.9 range the 16^th time in a row and this represents its best 6+-stat in exactly one year (3.9, as well, in October 2018). Off a collective four-tenths via three straight down or flat moves (4.2 – 3.9 – 3.8 – 3.8, 6+), Entercom hot AC KLLC “Alice @ 97.3” is a combined +1.2 in September/October (3.8 – 4.7 – 5.0, fourth to third, 6+). Similarly-formatted/iHeartMedia-owned KIOI “Star 101.3,” which notched six reports in a row without a decrease and earned six-tenths in that stretch (2.9 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 3.2 – 3.3 – 3.5, 6+), surrenders two-tenths to 3.3 (eighth to tenth, 6+). Up an overall nine-tenths via four successive increases (3.6 – 3.7 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.5, 6+) and having its best 6+-stat (4.5) since 5.0 in March, adult contemporary cluster-mate KISQ “98.1 The Breeze” inches up from fifth to fourth. Bonneville’s similarly-formatted KOIT-FM “96.5 “Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites” has lost a total of four-tenths in three straight down or flat trends (4.1 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.7, sixth to eighth, 6+). After recording five straight reports without a loss for a net gain of seven-tenths (1.3 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.9 – 2.0, 6+), co-owned KUFX “98.5 K-Fox The South Bay’s Classic Rock” has dropped an overall four-tenths in five consecutive down or flat trends (2.0 – 1.9 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.6, #22 to #24, 6+).

Dallas

Spoken-Word Formats – Without a loss six successive survey periods for a +1.8 (2.3 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 3.1 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 4.1, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WBAP “News Talk 820” has since been -.6 (July); +.4 (August); -.3 (September); and now +.5 in October (3.6 – 4.1, seventh to sixth, 6+). Co-owned KLIF-AM “570 News & Information” is up a total of two-tenths via five successive positive or neutral sweeps (.3 – .3 – .4 – .5 – .5 – .5, #36 to #35, 6+). It is tied with Salem Media Group-owned KSKY “660 AM The Answer” (.4 – .5, +.1, #37 to #35, 6+).

Repeating September’s 2.4 (6+), Entercom’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Rangers, Cowboys) advances from #19 to #18. Without an increase the seventh report in succession (2.7 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.4 – 1.2, #25 to #29, 6+), Cumulus Media’s KTCK “The Ticket – All Sports All The Time” has lost roughly 55% (-1.5) of its 6+ AQH share. It is two-tenths ahead of Disney/ESPN’s KESN “103.3 ESPN Dallas,” which repeats September’s 1.0 (#30 to #32, 6+).         

The July 2019 through October 2019 topline for Entercom news-talk hybrid KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” is: 1.8 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.7 (#23 to #22, 6+).

For the third time in succession, North Texas Public Broadcasting news/talk KERA records a 3.2 (#11 to #12, 6+).

Dallas Music Formats – Over and above being a collective +2.6 as a result of four straight up or flat trends including October’s +1.1 (4.0 – 4.1 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 6.6, 6+), Salem Media Group contemporary Christian KLTY “94.9 Your Life … Inspired” marches from second to first. KLTY was frozen on 4.2 (6+) in April and May before slipping to 4.0 (6+) in June. Ups/downs continue for WAY Media’s similarly-formatted KAWA “WAY-FM Uplifting-Upbeat-Real,” which was -1.2 in March; a combined +1.2 in April/May (1.1 – 1.6 – 2.3, 6+); -1.4 in June; +.2 in July; -.5 in August; +.4 (September); and -.4 in October (1.0 – .6, #30 to #33, 6+). Notwithstanding that it is flat at 6.5 (6+), iHeartMedia CHR KHKS “106.1 Kiss – Dallas/Fort Worth’s Hit Music,” which had been on top the past ninth months, trades places with KLTY at #2. An August increase of nine-tenths wiped away the collective nine-tenths “Kiss” lost as a result of three straight negative or neutral moves (6.7 – 6.3 – 5.8 – 5.8, 6+). Its May dip of four-tenths brought to a close four successive up or flat sweeps that netted eight-tenths (5.9 – 6.1 – 6.3 – 6.3 – 6.7, 6+). April’s 6.7 was KHKS’ best 6+-stat since May 2018’s 6.9. At the same time that Cumulus Media’s country-formatted KPLX “99.5 The Wolf” drops four-tenths (4.4 – 4.0, fourth to seventh, 6+), co-owned/similarly-formatted KSCS “New Country 96.3” adds four-tenths (3.6, 6+) and reenters the top ten (#11 to #8). “The Wolf” was locked on 3.9 (6+) in July and August, before notching a one-half share improvement in September. Meanwhile, KSCS halts three straight losses that resulted in a cumulative decrease of six-tenths (3.8 – 3.8 – 3.5 – 3.2, 6+). Slipping from third to fourth, iHeartMedia classic rock KZPS “Lone Star 92.5” is off a collective eight-tenths in three downturns in succession (5.1 – 4.8 – 4.5 – 4.3, 6+). It is tied with hot AC sibling KDMX “Now 102.9 More Music/More Variety,” which picks up four-tenths to 4.3 (sixth to fourth, 6+), thus snapping three straight dips that accounted for a -.8 (4.7 – 4.4 – 4.3 – 3.9, 6+).

Houston                              

Spoken-Word Formats – Following a net loss of one-half share in four successive negative or neutral reports (3.8 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.3, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk KTRH bounces back with a combined +.6 in September/October (3.3 – 3.4 – 3.9, #14 to #11, 6+). “News Radio 740” was -.7 in December 2018 (4.3 – 3.6, 6+); -.7 in “Holiday” 2018 (3.6 – 2.9, 6+); and +.7 in January 2019 (2.9 – 3.6, 6+). Co-owned KPRC “AM 950 – Houston’s More Stimulating Talk Radio” repeats September’s 6+ AQH-share (.3) and market rank (#29).

Through four consecutive up or flat moves, Entercom’s KILT-AM “Sports Radio 610” (Texans) has gained a total of three-tenths (1.0 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.3, 6+) and is unchanged at #22. It overtakes iHeartMedia’s KBME “Sports Talk 790” (Astros), which is up one-tenth (1.1 – 1.2, 6+) but backslides from #22 to #23. Eight straight down or flat trends by Gow Communications’ sports talk KFNC led to a net loss of four-tenths (.9 – .9 – .8 – .8 – .8 – .7 – .7 – .5 – .5, 6+) but “ESPN 97.5” ends the slide with a +.1 to .6 (flat at #26, 6+).

After forfeiting one-tenth in back-to-back survey periods (2.5 – 2.4 – 2.3, 6+), University of Houston news/talk KUHF is up a combined eight-tenths in September/October (2.3 – 2.9 – 3.1 (flat at #17, 6+).

Houston Music Formats – An overall +1.6 in four straight positive spikes including October’s +.9 (4.9 – 5.0 – 5.1 – 5.6 – 6.5, 6+), Univision Radio regional Mexican KLTN “Que Buena 102.9” advances from fourth to third. This (6.5) is its best 6+-showing since March (6.7). An increase of six-tenths (3.9 – 4.5, 6+) propels iHeartMedia alternative KTBZ “94.5 The Buzz” into the top ten (#11 to #7) with its highest 6+-stat since September 2018 (4.5, as well). A combined +1.3 in August/September (5.8 – 6.2 – 7.1, 6+), Radio One urban AC KMJQ “Majic 102.1 The People’s Station” surrenders four-tenths in October to 6.7 (6+) but is #1 the third month in a row. Prior to September (7.1), KMJQ last crossed the seven-share threshold (6+) in May 2018 (7.2). In addition to being an overall +1.3 in three upticks in a row and repeating at #2 (5.3 – 5.5 – 6.5 – 6.6, 6+), Cox Media Group classic rock KGLK “The Eagle” has its highest 6+-stat (6.6) since September 2017’s 6.7. Regressing by six-tenths each are KMJQ’s rhythmic CHR cluster-mate KBXX “97.9 The Box” (flat at #6) and Cumulus Media CHR KRBE “104.1 – Houston’s #1 Hit Music Station” (4.7 – 4.1, seventh to ninth, 6+). “The Box” continues an alternating down/up pattern that began in May (4.9 – 4.6 – 5.0 – 4.9 – 5.2 – 4.6, 6+). A September increase of two-tenths by KRBE interrupted five consecutive negative or neutral trends that led to an overall decline of eight-tenths (5.3 – 5.2 – 5.1 – 5.1 – 5.1 – 4.5, 6+). Three straight positive or flat moves by Entercom hot AC KHMX accounted for a +1.7 (3.0 – 3.4 – 4.7 – 4.7, 6+), but “Mix 96.5” follows that with a combined -1.4 in September/October (4.7 – 3.8 – 3.3, #12 to #15, 6+). Spanish contemporary sibling KLOL “Mega 101 FM” is -1.0 as a result of three straight down or flat trends (4.2 – 3.9 – 3.2 – 3.2, #15 to #16, 6+). For the seventh time in the last eight survey periods, adult hits cluster-mate KKHH posts a 6+ AQH share between 5.0 – 5.7 (5.1 – 4.7 – 5.1 – 5.4 – 5.0 – 5.7 – 5.5 – 5.4, 6+); “95.7 The Spot” is steady in fifth-place. Slipping from third to fourth, iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA has lost roughly 51% (-6.2) of its 6+ AQH share in ten straight months without an increase (12.1 – 8.6 – 8.5 – 8.2 – 7.5 – 7.3 – 7.1 – 6.6 – 5.9 – 5.9 – 5.9, 6+). “Sunny 99.1” was the market leader 16 sweeps in a row before segueing to #2 in August. Immediately in advance of this spiral, KODA was a cumulative +4.9 via three consecutive gains (7.2 – 7.5 – 9.7 – 12.1, 6+). It had been more than two years since KODA slipped below a six-share (June 2017, 5.8, 6+). The market’s (6+) country share dips by three-tenths of a share as Cox Media Group’s KKBQ “The New Country 93-Q” forfeits two-tenths (4.6 – 4.4, 6+), while Entercom’s similarly-formatted KILT-FM “100.3 The Bull” drops one-tenth in consecutive sweeps (4.3 – 4.2 – 4.1, 6+); “93-Q” and “The Bull” continue at eighth and ninth, respectively. KKBQ is trending 4.8 – 4.7- 4.5 – 4.6 – 4.4 (June – July – August – September – October, 6+).  Before losing two-tenths in March, KILT-FM had been +1.7 via three bumps in a row (3.5 – 3.8 – 4.5 – 5.2, 6+).

 Atlanta

Spoken-Word Formats – On a roll, Cox Media Group news/talk WSB-AM “Atlanta’s News & Talk” is an overall +1.9 as a result of four straight up or flat trends (6.3 – 6.6 – 7.6 – 7.6 – 8.2, 6+) and is #1 the third month in a row. Following three consecutive months on top, WSB-AM slipped to the runner-up slot in April. Despite doubling (+.2) its 6+ stat in four successive reports without a loss (.2 – .2 – .3 – .4 – .4, 6+), Entercom’s WAOK “1380 The Voice of the Community” backslides from #27 to #29. Whereas Salem Media Group-owned WGKA “AM 920 The Answer” regains the one-tenth it lost in September (.3 – .2 -.3, #29 to #30, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WGST “Talk Radio 640” returns the one-tenth it picked up this time last month (.1 – .2 – .1, #29 to #35, 6+). Prior to September, WGST lost three-tenths via twelve straight down or flat trends (.4 – .3 – .3 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1, 6+).

As a result of three successive upticks, Entercom sports talk WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Falcons) is a collective +1.8 (2.8 – 3.4 – 4.3 – 4.6, eighth to seventh, 6+). Before August’s increase, “The Game” was an overall -1.2 in five straight negative or neutral sweeps (4.0 – 3.7 – 3.1 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.8, 6+). Following seven consecutive monthlies without a loss for a net gain of +1.1 (1.6 – 1.7 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.5 – 2.7, 6+), Dickey Broadcasting’s WCNN (Braves) is off two-tenths to 2.5 (6+) but carries on at #16.

Within 3.3 – 3.7 range the eighth sweep in a row (3.4 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.3 – 3.6, 6+), City of Atlanta Board of Education’s WABE improves from #12 to #11. Four successive up or flat moves by news/talk WRAS resulted in a +.2 (.5 – .5 – .6 – .6 – .7, 6+) but the Georgia State University news/talk station loses one-tenth to .6 (#25 to #26, 6+).

Atlanta Music Formats – After trending .2 – .4 – .2 (July -August – September, 6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WAKL “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” erupts with a +1.1 to 1.3 (#22), its best 6+-performance since March (1.4). Simultaneous with Radio One urban contemporary WAMJ-HD2 improving by one-half share and entering the top twenty (#21 to #20, 6+), co-owned urban AC WAMJ-FM “Majic – The Real Sound of Atlanta” regresses by eight-tenths (5.8, second to fifth, 6+). WAMJ-HD2 is an overall +.9 in three improvements in succession (1.1 – 1.2 – 1.5 – 2.0, 6+). The loss by “Majic” curtails three straight gains that accounted for a +1.4 (5.2 – 5.8 – 6.2 – 6.6, 6+). Ups/downs continue for Cumulus Media-owned CHR WWWQ “Q-100 Atlanta’s New Hits,” which was +.4 (June); -.9 (July/August); +.3 (September); and is now -.7 in October (3.4 – 2.7, #11 to #14, 6+). Having put together six up or flat moves in a row for a collective gain of nine-tenths (5.6 – 5.8 – 5.9 – 5.9 – 6.1 – 6.3 – 6.5, 6+), Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV “97.1 The River” surrenders two-thirds of that increase (5.9, -.6, 6+) yet advances from third to second. The market’s two country FMs account for a -1.1 (6+), nearly equally divided between iHeartMedia’s WUBL “94.9 The Bull” (4.9 – 4.3, -.6, seventh to eighth, 6+) and Cumulus Media’s WKHX “Kicks 101.5 – Atlanta’s #1 For Country Hits” (2.4, -.5, #14 to #17, 6+). “The Bull” had been an overall +.9 via three successive positive spikes (4.0 – 4.1 – 4.5 – 4.9, 6+). Its April 2019 through July 2019 topline was 4.0 – 4.1 – 4.0 – 4.1 (6+). When “The Bull” dropped one-tenth in June, it interrupted three straight increases that produced a +.8 (3.3 – 3.5 – 4.0 – 4.1, 6+). Meanwhile, “Kicks” was a combined +.4 in August/September (2.5 – 2.9 – 2.9, 6+). That August increase halted three straight dips that resulted in a net loss of six-tenths (3.1 – 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.5, 6+). Off three-tenths in March, WKHX later faltered by four-tenths in May. Four successive setbacks by Salem Media Group contemporary Christian WFSH “104.7 The Fish” have accounted for an approximately 53% erosion (-4.7) of its 6+ AQH share (8.8 – 8.5 – 4.7 – 4.2 – 4.1, flat at #9, 6+). WFSH had been at #1 four straight months before shifting to seventh in August. When “The Fish” lost three-tenths in July, it halted at five a consecutive string of bumps that netted an overall +3.9 (4.9 – 5.4 – 5.7 – 7.0 – 7.9 – 8.8, 6+). Although down a collective seven-tenths in four straight sweeps without an increase (3.4 – 3.4 – 2.9 – 2.7 – 2.7, 6+), Entercom hot AC WSTR “Star 94.1” progresses from #16 to #14.

Philadelphia

Spoken-Word Formats – Rebounding from September’s loss of three-tenths with an October +.8 (1.8 – 1.5 – 2.3, 6+), Entercom’s WPHT “Talk Radio 1210” returns to the top twenty (#22 to #18). Up a total of two-tenths in three straight positive or neutral moves (.7 – .8 – .8 – .9, 6+), Townsquare Media news/talk WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” climbs from #24 to #23.

In a first-place tie in September, Entercom sports talk WIP “Sports Radio 94.1” (Phillies, Eagles) emphatically breaks the deadlock with an October +.9 (6.6 – 7.5, 6+); WIP gained eight-tenths in August. In four straight reports without a loss, Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” nets six-tenths (2.1 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.7, unchanged at #17, 6+). June’s 2.1 was its lowest 6+-stat since September 2018’s 1.8.     

There’s good news/bad news for Entercom’s KYW “News Radio 1060.” On the plus side, it gains one-tenth to 3.5 (6+), thus snapping eight sweeps in succession without an increase that resulted in an overall -1.6 (5.0 – 4.6 – 4.4 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.4, 6+). The downside is that KYW exits the top ten (#10 to #11).   

In four straight up or neutral reports, public radio news/talk WHYY is a cumulative +1.2 (2.5 – 2.6 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 3.7, 6+) and jumps into the top ten (#14 to #10). WHYY reaches the three-share level (3.7, 6+) for the first time since February’s 3.0.

Philadelphia Music Formats – After being up one-tenth in consecutive reports (2.3 – 2.4 – 2.5, July – August – September, 6+), Entercom’s WTDY “Today’s Hits 96.5 TDY” improves by six-tenths in October to 3.1 (#16 to #13, 6+). WTDY was -1.0 in four straight March 2019 through July 2019 decreases (3.3 – 3.2 – 3.1 – 2.4 – 2.3, 6+). After not showing an increase the past six sweeps for a collective decline of six-tenths (3.3 – 3.2 – 3.0 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.7, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned/similarly-formatted WIOQ “Q-102” ends the slide with a +.1 to 2.8 (#15 to #14, 6+). In the market’s adult contemporary tussle, Entercom’s WBEB “B-101.1 More Music/More Variety” is an overall +1.1 in three straight upticks (5.5 – 5.6 – 6.1 – 6.6, fourth to second, 6+), while iHeartMedia-owned WISX “106.1 The Breeze,” which had been trending 4.5 – 4.7 – 4.9 (6+), drops six-tenths to 4.3 (flat at #9, 6+). As noted above, Entercom sports talk WIP breaks the tie at #1 and has sole possession of the lead. In September, it was deadlocked with iHeartMedia urban AC WDAS-FM, which falters by two-tenths to 6.4 (6+) and segues to fourth. “Philly’s Best R&B and Throwbacks” had been +1.3 via three upticks in a row (5.3 – 5.8 – 6.3 – 6.6, 6+). Prior to July, WDAS-FM lost a collective eight-tenths since March as a result of three consecutive negative or neutral moves (6.1 – 6.1 – 5.9 – 5.3, 6+). So far in 2019, WIP was on top in January; its classic hits-oldies sibling WOGL “98.1 – Nobody Plays More 80s” was #1 in February; WBEB was #1 in March; Beasley Media Group classic rock WMGK set the pace in April; WBEB did so in May and June; WMGK returned to #1 in July and August; WIP and WDAS-FM were tied for the lead in September; and WIP is #1 in October. A loss of six-tenths (5.7 – 5.1, sixth to seventh, 6+) by Entercom-owned WXTU drops “92.5 Philadelphia’s Country Station” to its lowest 6+-stat (5.1) since March (5.0). There are more significant swings for iHeartMedia urban contemporary WUSL “Power 99,” which was +.8 in four successive (February through June) up or flat trends (3.7 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 4.0 – 4.5, 6+); -.6 in July/August (4.5 – 4.0 – 3.9, 6+); +1.1 in September; and now -.5 in October (5.0 – 4.5, flat at #8, 6+). September’s 5.0 is its best 6+-performance in more than two years (5.6, July 2017). In five successive sweeps without an increase, Beasley Media Group-owned WMMR “93.3 Everything That Rocks” has lost four-tenths (6.4 – 6.1 – 6.1 – 6.1 – 6.0 – 6.0, flat at #5, 6+). Six straight sweeps without a loss yielded a +1.2 for University of Pennsylvania triple A WXPN (1.4 – 1.4 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.3 – 2.6, 6+), but “88.5 Vinyl At Heart” is now -1.1 in four straight down or flat moves (2.6 – 2.4 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.5, flat at #21, 6+).

Long Island

Spoken-Word Formats – Five increases in succession by iHeartMedia news/talk WOR more than doubled (+2.5) its 6+ AQH share (2.2 – 2.5 – 2.6 – 2.9 – 3.2 – 4.7, 6+); however, “710 The Voice of New York” is now a combined -1.0 in September/October (4.7 – 4.5 – 3.7, fourth to seventh, 6+). Up three tenths in August/September (1.0 – 1.1 – 1.3, 6+), news/talk WABC falters by two-tenths in October to 1.1 (6+) but continues at #26.

When WFAN lost one-tenth in September, its consecutive streak of up or flat reports that generated a +1.3 was halted at six (4.3 – 4.4 – 5.1 – 5.3 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 5.6, 6+) and, after five months in a row at #1, the Entercom sports talker segued to #2. Roaring back in October with a +.9 (5.5 – 6.4, 6+), WFAN (Yankees, Giants) reclaims the top spot. Directly after a -.4 in June/July (2.3 – 2.2 – 1.9, 6+), similarly-programmed WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” is a collective +.8 in three straight gains (1.9 – 2.0 – 2.2 – 2.7, 6+), leaping from #19 to #14.

Nassau-Suffolk’s (6+) all-news share shrinks by -1.2, as Entercom’s WINS is -.7 (3.1, #9 to #11, 6+) and co-owned/similarly-formatted WCBS-AM is -.5 (2.7, #12 to #14, 6+). Stuck on 3.0 (6+) in May and June and then off three-tenths in July, WINS followed with a +1.1 in August/September (2.7 – 2.9 – 3.8, 6+). WCBS-AM had been a collective +.7 in three straight up or flat trends (2.5 – 2.5 – 2.9 – 3.2, 6+).

Five successive up or flat trends by WNYC Broadcasting Foundation news/talk WNYC-FM net four-tenths (1.3 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.7, #24 to #23, 6+).

Long Island Music Formats – Following four consecutive down or neutral moves that accounted for a -1.3 (5.1 – 4.6 – 4.6 – 4.6 – 3.8, 6+), Connoisseur Media-owned hot AC WALK-FM “Real Variety 97.5” answers with a +1.0 to 4.8 (6+) and rockets from ninth to third. The April 2019 through October 2019 topline for Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WPLJ “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” is: 2.2 – 1.9 – 1.5 – .5 – 0.0 – .4 – 1.1 (#26, 6+). When EMF officially closed on its purchase of WPLJ from Cumulus Media on May 31, it transitioned the station from hot AC to contemporary Christian. Erasing September’s one-tenth loss with an October gain of one-half share (5.0 – 4.9 – 5.4, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR WHTZ progresses from third to second. Prior to September, “Z-100” was positive or neutral in five sweeps in succession for a net gain of one-half share (4.5 – 4.5 – 4.6 – 4.8 – 4.9 – 5.0, 6+). An overall +1.1 via three successive sweeps without a loss (4.5 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.6, 6+), Cox Media Group’s similarly-formatted WBLI not only erodes by eight-tenths to 4.8 (6+), “106.1 Long Island’s #1 For All The Hits” concludes a September-only stay at #1 and shifts to #3. After posting three straight positive or flat moves that yielded six-tenths (3.5 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 4.1, 6+), Connoisseur Media adult contemporary WKJY “98.3 K-JOY Long Island’s Place to Relax” is now a combined -.7 in September/October (4.1 – 3.6 – 3.4, 6+) yet actually climbs from #11 to #9. This (3.4) is its lowest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2018’s 3.2. Having gained a cumulative eight-tenths in four upticks in a row (3.3 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 3.7 – 4.1, 6+), iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WLTW “106.7 Lite FM” relinquishes all but one-tenth of that bounty (3.4, -.7, sixth to ninth, 6+). Cluster-mate WAXQ “Q-104.3 New York’s Classic Rock” is a collective -1.0 in three straight sweeps without an increase (4.6 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 3.6, fifth to eighth, 6+). Three bumps in a row by Connoisseur Media classic hits-oldies WBZO netted nine-tenths (2.1 – 2.6 – 2.7 – 3.0, 6+), immediately following a collective -1.6 via three straight drops (3.7 – 3.2 – 2.9 – 2.1, 6+). In October, “103.1 Max FM” loses one-tenth to 2.9 (6+) yet advances from #14 to #13.

Riverside

Spoken-Word Formats – For the third month in a row (August, September, and October), iHeartMedia news talk KKDD “1290 News Talk IE” records a .1 (6+) and repeats at #23. KKDD was unlisted in May, June and July.

This is the fifth time in succession that co-owned KPWK “Fox Sports Radio 1350 AM” is without an increase (.2 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1, flat at #23, 6+) and the 22^nd straight sweep that similarly-formatted/Los Angeles Angels-owned (LAA 1, LLC) KLAA “Angels Radio AM 830” is unlisted.

In three straight up or flat trends, San Bernardino Community College news/talk KVCR gains a collective three-tenths (.5 – .8 – .8 – .9, 6+) and advances from #13 to #12. Stuck on .3 (6+) in July, August, and September, Pasadena City College news/talk KPCC “The Voice of Southern California” is off one-tenth to .2 (#19 to #20, 6+).

Riverside Music Formats – Tacking on two-tenths to September’s +.8 (6.9 – 7.7 – 7.9, 6+), Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA repeats at #1. September/October’s +1.0 follows July/August’s -1.7 (8.6 – 7.6 – 6.9, 6+). KOLA occupied the top spot in April, May, June, and July before segueing to #2 in August. Immediately prior to July/August’s -1.7, KOLA was +1.8 via three successive positive spikes (6.8 – 7.2 – 8.0 – 8.6, 6+). It has a two-tenths lead over Entravision Spanish adult hits KLYY “Jose,” which is trending 7.5 – 7.3 – 7.7 (6+) and is flat at #2. “Jose” was +1.3 in July/August (6.2 – 6.7 – 7.5, 6+), dropping from first to second. Immediately in advance of the July report, KLYY was an overall -4.3 in seven straight declines (10.5 – 8.5 – 8.2 – 8.1 – 7.4 – 7.0 – 6.4 – 6.2, 6+). KLYY had been in the runner-up slot in April, May, June, and July. December 2018’s 10.5 marked the first time any Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario station reached double-figures (6+) since April 2015, when “Jose” recorded a 10.4. Liberman Broadcasting regional Mexican KRQB gains two-tenths in back-to-back sweeps (2.5 – 2.7 – 2.9, steady in eighth-place, 6+), immediately following four consecutive down or flat trends that led to a loss of eight-tenths (3.3 – 3.1 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 2.5, 6+). August’s 2.5 was the lowest 6+-showing for “Que Buena 96.1” since November 2018’s 2.3. In six straight up or flat reports, Lazer Broadcasting’s similarly-formatted KAEH “Radio Lazer” has doubled (+.3) its 6+ AQH share (.3 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .5 – .6, 6+), but backslides from #16 to #17. This is the third straight sweep without an increase for iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR KGGI “99.1 Riverside’s Hottest Hit Music,” which is -1.0 in that stretch (4.4 – 4.1 – 3.4 – 3.4, unchanged in fourth-place, 6+). Surrendering more than half (-1.9) its 6+-share via seven consecutive decreases (3.7 – 3.4 – 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.3 – 2.1 – 1.9 – 1.8, 6+), LC Media urban-rhythmic oldies KQIE falls from ninth to tenth. Leading up to this particular streak, “Old School 104.7” chalked up a +1.6 in three successive improvements (2.1 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 3.7, 6+). All-Pro Broadcasting rhythmic hot AC KHTI “Hot 103.9 The I.E.’s Best Mix” has lost a collective seven-tenths in three drops in a row (1.5 – 1.1 – .9 – .8, #12 to #13, 6+), while co-owned adult contemporary KATY “101.3 The Mix” is an overall -.6 via four straight setbacks (1.3 – 1.3 – 1.1 – .8 – .7, #13 to #16, 6+). Educational Media Foundation-owned contemporary Christian KLRD “Air 1 – Worship Now” (1.6, #11, June 2019, 6+) and co-owned/similarly-formatted KKLQ “Positive, Encouraging 100.3” (.7, #15, June 2019, 6+) – are unlisted for the fourth month in a row.

San Jose

Spoken-Word Formats – Three straight positive spikes by Cumulus Media news/talk KGO produce a +1.0 (1.4 – 1.8 – 2.2 – 2.4, #19 to #16, 6+). This comes directly after it surrendered more than 50% of its 6+ AQH share (-1.6) in ten straight negative or neutral San Jose sweeps (3.0 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.4, 6+), Co-owned news/talk KSFO picks up one-tenth (.8 – .9, 6+) and one ranker (#27 to #26). In August, KSFO gained two-tenths, thus halting three successive declines that accounted for a loss of roughly half (-.7) of its 6+-stat (1.5 – 1.3 – 1.2 – .8, 6+).

Locked on 3.6 (6+) in August and September, sports talk sibling KNBR-AM “The Sports Leader” (Giants, 49ers) improves by two-tenths to 3.8 (seventh to sixth, 6+). Less than a week before the September ratings period concluded (9/6), co-owned triple A KFOG ditched its longtime music format and became sports talk KNBR-FM (1.8 – 1.2, -.6, #24, 6+). KNBR-FM disappears from print in October and is now listed as a simulcast with KNBR-AM. Down six-tenths in August, Entercom’s similarly-formatted KGMZ “95.7 The Game” is a combined +.8 in September/October (1.0 – 1.1 – 1.8, #25 to #21, 6+). September’s increase suspended three straight declines that eroded nearly two-thirds (-1.9) of its 6+ AQH share (2.9 – 2.4 – 1.6 – 1.0, 6+). This came immediately after a +1.4 as a result of three consecutive increases (1.5 – 1.7 – 1.9 – 2.9, 6+).

Although off by one-half share (5.7 – 5.2, 6+), Entercom all-news KCBS-AM continues in fourth-place. KCBS-AM was -1.9 in three straight March through May decreases.

An overall -.4 in three consecutive down or flat trends (6.3 – 6.0 – 6.0 – 5.9, 6+), Northern California Public Broadcasting news/talk KQED remains in third-place. Logging a 1.0 (6+) the third time in a row (after July’s 1.3), San Francisco Unified School District news/talk KALW is flat at #24.

San Jose Music Formats – Wiping away August/September’s -.5 (3.9 – 3.6 – 3.4, 6+) with an October increase of eight-tenths to 4.2 (6+), iHeartMedia hot AC KIOI “Star 101.3 More Music/More Variety” jumps from eighth to fifth with its best 6+ San Jose showing (4.2) since January’s 4.6. Elsewhere in the hot AC format, Entercom’s KLLC “Alice @ 97.3” improves by six-tenths and enters the top ten (#12 to #9, 6+), while Alpha Media-owned KEZR “Mix 106” drops six-tenths to 6.1 (6+) but continues in the runner-up slot. “Alice” is now a collective +1.2 in three straight increases (2.2 – 2.5 – 2.8 – 3.4, 6+). Entering the October ratings period, “Mix” was +1.9 in five successive positive or neutral trends (4.8 – 5.6 – 6.2 – 6.5 – 6.5 – 6.7, 6+). Bonneville-owned KUFX “98.5 K-Fox – The South Bay’s Classic Rock,” which was a collective -2.7 via four straight setbacks (5.8 – 5.3 – 4.9 – 3.9 – 3.1, 6+), ends the slide with an October gain of four-tenths to 3.5 (ninth to eighth, 6+). Following a July/August loss of six-tenths (2.7 – 2.2 – 2.1, 6+), iHeartMedia urban contemporary KMEL “106.1 #1 For Hip-Hop and R&B” answers with a September/October +1.1 (2.1 – 2.7 – 3.2, #13 to #12). In addition to recapturing the three-tenths it lost in September (8.6 – 8.3 – 8.6, 6+), Alpha Media classic hits-oldies KBAY “94.5 Bay FM – The Bay’s Greatest Hits” is #1 the sixth consecutive month. “Bay FM,” which was +1.3 in August, nearly negated April’s -1.5 with a May +1.3 (6.2 – 7.5, 6+), returning to #1 after an April-only stay at #2. Prior to the April sweep, KBAY had been +1.5 via three upticks in a row (6.2 – 6.9 – 7.3 – 7.7, 6+). The rollercoaster ride continues for Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KBRG “Amor 100.3,” which was an overall -1.1 in three successive declines (6.1 – 6.0 – 5.3 – 5.0, 6+); was +.9 (July); -1.5 (August); +.5 (September); and is now -1.1 in October (4.9 – 3.8, fifth to sixth, 6+). Off by one-half share each are KBRG’s rhythmic CHR cluster-mate KVVF “Latino Mix 105.7” (#15 to #18, 6+) and Empire Broadcasting’s KRTY “San Jose Hot Country 95.3” (sixth to ninth, 6+). In four straight down or flat trends, “Latino Mix” has lost eight-tenths (2.9 – 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.6 – 2.1, 6+) and has its weakest 6+-showing (2.1) since “Holiday” 2018’s 1.8. Meanwhile, “Hot Country” is a combined -.7 in September/October (4.1 – 3.9 – 3.4, 6+). An overall +1.5 in four straight sweeps without a loss (1.0 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.6 – 2.5, 6+), Spanish Broadcasting System regional Mexican KRZZ “93.3 La Raza” regresses by four-tenths to 2.1 (#16 to #18, 6+). Prior to September, the last time KRZZ reached the two-share level (6+) in San Jose was July 2017 (2.0). Unlisted in San Jose the tenth month in a row are Bonneville cluster-mates adult contemporary KOIT-FM “Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites”; CHR KMVQ “Now 99.7”; and urban AC KBLX “102.9 R&B and Old School.”

Middlesex-Somerset-Union

Spoken-Word Formats – On top the past eight survey periods, Townsquare Media news/talk WKXW segues to the runner-up position. “New Jersey 101.5” has lost roughly 27% (-2.2) of its 6+-share in nine consecutive (January 2019 through October 2019) negative or neutral trends (8.1 – 7.9 – 7.5 – 7.3 – 7.1 – 6.9 – 6.9 – 6.6 – 5.9 – 5.9, 6+). Stuck on 3.5 (6+) in August and September following August’s gain of six-tenths, iHeartMedia news/talk WOR “710 The Voice of New York” is up one-tenth to 3.6 (#13 to #11, 6+). News/talk WABC, which doubled (+.6) its 6+ Middlesex-Somerset-Union share via three upticks in succession (.6 – .7 – .9 – 1.2, 6+), regains the four-tenths it lost in September (1.2 – .8 – 1.2, flat at #25, 6+).

Completely reversing September’s loss of seven-tenths with an October +1.1 (3.7 – 4.8, 6+), Entercom sports talk WFAN-FM (Yankees, Giants) progresses from tenth to seventh. Three straight gains by New York’s “Fan” yielded eight-tenths (3.6 – 3.7 – 4.0 – 4.4, 6+). Similarly-programmed WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” is a combined +.8 in September/October (1.6 – 1.7 – 2.4, #21 to #18, 6+), immediately after being down a collective nine-tenths through three consecutive negative or neutral trends (2.5 – 2.1 – 1.6 – 1.6, 6+).

Entercom all-news WINS repeats September’s 1.9 (6+) but departs the top twenty (#20 to #21). Its September loss of two-tenths curtailed four consecutive increases that accounted for a one-half share gain (1.6 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 2.1, 6+). Co-owned/similarly-programmed WCBS-AM (Mets) is a collective -1.1 in four drops in a row (2.5 – 2.1 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.4, #21 to #23, 6+).

Up three-tenths (1.5 – 1.8, 6+), WNYC Broadcasting Foundation public radio news/talk WNYC-FM climbs from #23 to #22. August’s increase of one-tenth to 2.0 (6+) halted three consecutive decreases that accounted for a collective loss of six-tenths (2.5 – 2.2 – 2.0 – 1.9, 6+).

Middlesex-Somerset-Union Music Formats – Over and above netting a whopping +2.6 through five Middlesex spikes in succession (4.0 – 4.3 – 4.4 – 4.7 – 5.8 – 6.6, 6+), Entercom classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM “101.1 New York’s Greatest Hits” marches from second to first. “New York’s Greatest Hits” succeeds WKXW at #1 (see above). Owing to three straight improvements (2.1 – 2.2 – 2.6 – 3.5, 6+), Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish contemporary WPAT “Amor 93.1” is an overall +1.4 and jumps from #17 to #12. Off one-half share in August/September (5.1 – 4.9 – 4.6, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW erases that deficit with an October increase of seven-tenths to 5.3, its best (6+) Middlesex stat since “Holiday” 2018’s 11.4; “106.7 Lite FM” vaults from seventh to third. Anchored in tenth-place, Emmis rhythmic CHR WQHT “Hot 97” nets a +1.6 in six successive up or flat moves (2.7 – 2.8 – 3.0 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 4.3, 6+). A combined +.9 in August/September (3.3 – 3.4 – 4.2, 6+), Pillar of Fire contemporary Christian WAWZ “Star 99.1” erodes by -1.1 in October (3.1, 6+) and drifts from the top ten (#9 to #16). September’s 4.2 is its best 6+-stat since January (4.2, as well). Regressing by seven-tenths each are iHeartMedia New York City classic rock and CHR siblings WAXQ “Q-104.3 – New York’s Classic Rock” (5.0, third to fourth, 6+) and WHTZ “Z-100” (fifth to eighth, 6+). WAXQ was +1.3 in August/September (4.4 – 5.0 – 5.7, 6+), while “Z-100” is -2.0 in four straight setbacks (6.6 – 5.9 – 5.5 – 5.3 – 4.6, 6+). Immediately after posting an August increase of nine-tenths (5.4 – 6.3, 6+), Emmis urban AC WBLS “107.5 #1 For R&B” is a combined -1.4 in September/October (6.3 – 5.5 – 4.9, fourth to sixth, 6+). The 6.3 that WBLS recorded in August is its highest (6+) Middlesex performance since June’s 6.8. Following four straight up or flat trends that netted seven-tenths (1.8 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.5, 6+), Univision Radio Spanish contemporary WXNY “X-96.3” falters by one-half share to 2.0 (#19 to #20, 6+). Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish tropical WSKQ “Mega 97.9” is without an increase the sixth straight time for a -1.4 since April (3.7 – 3.6 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.3, #17 to #19, 6+).