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iHeartMedia’s Reorganization Plan Confirmed by Bankruptcy Court. The United States Bankruptcy Court in Houston has confirmed the Modified Fifth Amended Joint Chapter 11 Plan of Reorganization for iHeartMedia. The company says the restructuring process will be completed within the first half of 2019. Under the terms of the Plan, iHeartMedia will complete a comprehensive balance sheet restructuring that will reduce its debt from $16.1 billion to $5.75 billion and will separate Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. from iHeartMedia, creating two independent public companies. iHeartMedia chairman and CEO Bob Pittman says, “We are delighted to reach this significant milestone in our restructuring process, which will give us a new capital structure that matches the strong operating performance of our business. iHeartMedia’s unique place in the advertising world perfectly positions us to take advantage of the renaissance underway in audio.”

Bruce Gilbert Re-Ups with Cumulus-Westwood One Sports. Sports radio programmer Bruce Gilbert signs a new, multi-year deal with Cumulus Media and Westwood One to continue serving as SVP of sports. Gilbert’s position entails leading “the curation, development, and execution of all sports content initiatives” and his overseeing the strategic direction of the company’s O&O sports talk outlets. Gilbert says, “I am so fortunate to be a part of the incredible Westwood One sports portfolio and to get to interact with the many outstanding Cumulus sports brands. Our partners, talent, producers, podcasters, anchors, and analysts are all dedicated to capturing, celebrating, debating, and discussing sports across our great radio stations and our Westwood One affiliate stations. I want to thank Mike McVay, Suzanne Grimes, and Charles Steinhauer for supporting our efforts to serve sports fans and giving us the platform to elevate the brands of our many valuable advertising partners.”

WPOP, Hartford Adds FM Signal. New translator W265EB at 100.9 FM is carrying the programming of iHeartMedia Hartford news/talk WPOP-AM. The translator is licensed to Hartford, is directional to the south-southwest and has an ERP of 220 watts. WPOP airs the local “Vinnie Penn Project” morning show, the Boston-based “Financial Exchange” program, content from Bloomberg Radio and the regionally syndicated Howie Carr show during daylight hours.

Cory Smith Joins Westwood One in New Digital Role. Former ESPN director of sports marketing Cory Smith joins Westwood One in the newly created role of vice president, digital sales marketing & operations. In this post, Smith “is responsible for digital sales planning, ad sales marketing, audience development, and ad operations, focusing on the rapidly growing podcast space. Westwood One president Suzanne Grimes says, “Westwood One is dominating the podcast landscape with top shows, massive promotional power, and national and local sales teams, making it the fastest growing podcast network today. Cory joins the team at a perfect time as our podcast business is exploding. He brings extensive digital audio experience, marketing expertise, and proven ability to build best-in-class operations.”

Talk Host Wayne Allyn Root: ‘I’m an Ad Exec and Pitch Man First and Foremost.’ Las Vegas-based, nationally syndicated talk show host Wayne Allyn Root tells TALKERS magazine he’s been beseeched by fellow talkers to share the revenue secrets for his USA Radio program and its Newsmax TV simulcast. Calling his philosophy/strategy “the future of conservative talk radio,” Root says he’s an “advertising executive and a pitch man first and foremost who also happens to have a three-hour, daily show.” Root says previous experiences from the other side of the fence – as a big-spending radio advertiser – left him disappointed because the hosts on whose shows he advertised treated him poorly and did “nothing nice or special for me.” He vowed to treat his advertisers differently when he became a host. He says he calls the CEO of every company that advertises with him once a month to ask how he’s doing and if he can do more. He gives “personal testimony for every product sold on my show, to make their products ‘the greatest’ and to make the CEO of each advertiser into a celebrity.” Most important, Root says he does this without the ratings that agencies demand because his platforms don’t pay for ratings services. “It’s not about ratings, it’s about personal service.” Root says the “age of Trump” makes finding new advertisers very difficult so it’s important to take care of loyal clients. He concludes, “Talk radio will not survive this ‘sea change’ unless the hosts learn to sell, sell, sell.”

Border Wall Battle, Government Shutdown, Covington Catholic Incident, Trump-Russia Investigation, Military Transgender Ban, 2020 Democratic Hopefuls, Ocasio-Cortez’s Climate Change Prediction, and NFL Ref Woes/Super Bowl LIII Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/22). The battle over funding for President Trump’s U.S.-Mexico border wall; the ongoing federal government shutdown; the case of the viral video of students and Native American protestors in Washington, DC; the investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russia agents; the U.S. Supreme Court upholds President Trump’s military transgender ban; the Democrats considering a run for president in 2020; the flap over Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez’s statement that climate change will destroy the world in 12 years; and the NFL’s referee problems and the build-up to Super Bowl LIII were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Political Consultant, Pundit and Author Dick Morris Is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast. The man who had President Bill Clinton’s ear for several years during his presidency and wielded tremendous political influence in the 1990s, Dick Morris, is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Morris, a prolific author, has just published his latest book, 50 Shades of Politics (Triangulation Publishing, 2019). It consists of 100 short stories covering highlights of his 50-year career in politics and follows his evolution from being a “blue,” liberal Democrat to a “purple,” moderate bi-partisan, to a “red,” conservative Republican covering many political “shades” along the way. Harrison and Morris discuss some of the juicy, behind-the-scenes stories contained in the book and then some, including the “dirt” dished in its pages about Bill and Hillary Clinton. Check it out! 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 on the TALKERS email newsletter and every page of Talkers.com.

PLAN AHEAD, DON’T BE SHUT OUT! 2019 Talkers Convention Set for NYC. The 22^nd annual installment of the longest-running, most-important national talk media convention has been set for Friday, June 7, 2019 in New York City. 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. 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.

Michael Harrison Catches Up with Russian Sensation, ‘Leonid & Friends.’ A group of 11 superb, multi-generational musicians from Russia, Ukraine, and several other former Soviet bloc countries has become an international sensation over the past three years as a “tribute” band to the legendary American ensemble, Chicago. They are reportedly so good that even members of the original Chicago have joined their growing legion of fans. Fueled largely by their outstanding video performances on YouTube, Leonid & Friends have gathered enough of a fan base in the US to be able to put together a tremendously successful three-week, sold-out tour of mid-sized venues across the nation, culminating with a performance last evening (1/22) at the historic Capitol Theatre in downtown Clearwater, Florida. TALKERS publisher and devoted rocker from the golden era of album radio, Michael Harrison, attended the concert and landed an exclusive interview with the leader and founder of the band, multi-instrumentalist Leonid Vorobyev for a forthcoming podcast. Harrison (left) is pictured with Vorobyev (right) backstage at the Capitol during the band’s sound check. Harrison raves, “I have been a longtime fan of Chicago – most notably their early, rockin’ days when Terry Kath was still alive. This amazing new band captures the spirit and energy of the original Chicago and then takes it to a level that I’ve never seen or heard before. Last night’s concert was the absolute best live rock performance I’ve seen since being privileged to attend the two historic private shows of Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band back at the Roxy in LA during the 1970s. Harrison continues, “The fact that a cover band can muster up so much excitement among seasoned music fans is a sign of the times and the new era in which we are living… rock ‘n’ roll is now a mature, historic genre like classical music or the Great American Songbook in which it is about the songs and arrangements themselves – not just the original performers – and they can be brought to life by new, energized, major league musicians. It’s sort of like watching a revival of ‘My Fair Lady’ at Lincoln Center or listening to the New York Philharmonic perform a symphony by Mozart.” Harrison concludes, “It’s tragic how music radio is so far behind the curve on this type of thing as well as other developments in the culture and dissemination of popular music.” To learn more about Leonid & Friends click here.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. On-air pro Kelly Ford is back in the New York groove at Cumulus Media’s country WNSH “NASH FM 94.7” hosting the new “Kelly Ford in the Morning” show, effective February 4. Ford was the original midday host on WNSH when it launched as a country outlet. She moved to Nashville to be part of the Westwood One-syndicated “Ty, Kelly, and Chuck” show (now “The Ty Bentli Show”). Ford says, “When [Cumulus New York VP and market manager] Chad Lopez and [program director] John Foxx first proposed the idea of ‘Kelly Ford in the Morning,’ of course my reaction was ‘What the Ford?!’ And my second was, ‘Truck yeah!’ I can’t thank Chad and John enough for bringing me back and [EVP content and programming] Mike McVay for making it happen. It’s like a full circle moment for me as I was the first live voice heard on ‘NASH FM 94.7.’ To be able to work again with the New York NASH team, especially Katie Neal and Jesse Addy, it’s like having the (country) band back together again.”

“Holiday” 2018 PPM Data – Round One. Information for the “Holiday” 2018 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 “Holiday” 2018 survey period covered December 6 (2018) – January 2 (2019). 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.

New York City

Spoken-Word Formats – In three straight decreases, iHeartMedia news/talk WOR has lost a collective nine-tenths (2.3 – 2.0 – 1.7 – 1.4, unchanged at #21, 6+); “710 The Voice of New York” was a cumulative +.6 in September and October (1.7 – 2.0 – 2.3, 6+). It is tied at #21 with Townsquare Media news/talk WKXW “New Jersey 101.5,” which drops two-tenths to 1.4 (#22 to #21, 6+), thus ending eight straight monthly reports without a loss that netted one-half share (1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.6, 6+). After being up or flat the past five sweeps for an overall increase of three-tenths (.9 – .9 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.2 – 1.2, 6+), Cumulus Media news/talk WABC drops one-tenth to 1.1 and is flat at #24 (6+).

This is the third loss in succession for Entercom sports talk WFAN, which is -1.2 in that stretch (4.4 – 3.7 – 3.5 – 3.2, flat at #10, 6+). The flagship of the Yankees, New York Giants, and Brooklyn Nets was -.8 in September and +.5 in October. Part of a three-way tie at #21 (with WOR and WKXW), WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” is off a cumulative four-tenths in December and “Holiday” 2018 (1.8 – 1.5- 1.4, #23 to #21, 6+), directly following an overall gain of four-tenths via four straight up or flat monthlies by the flagship of the New York Jets and New York Knicks (1.4 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1. 7 – 1.8, 6+).

The market’s (6+) all-news share shrinks by nine-tenths as Entercom’s WINS forfeits one-half share (4.3 – 3.8, fifth to seventh, 6+), while co-owned WCBS-AM is off four-tenths (3.0, #12 to #13, 6+). WINS was frozen on 4.2 (6+) in July, August, and September; stymied at 4.4 (6+) in October and November; then off one-tenth in December. The setback by WCBS-AM halts four consecutive upticks that produced a net gain of eight-tenths (2.6 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 3.2 – 3.4, 6+).

The rollercoaster ride continues for WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s news/talk WNYC-FM, which was a cumulative -.7 (May, June, and July); +.7 (August); -.6 (September); +.6 (October); -.4 (November); +.6 in December; and now -.4 in “Holiday” 2018 (3.6 – 3.2, #9 to #10, 6+). For the fourth time in a row, co-owned news/talk WNYC-AM logs a .5 (6+), but slips from #28 to #29. Prior to September’s .6 (6+), WNYC-AM recorded a .5 (6+) three straight times.

New York City Music Formats – Tacking on a +3.4 to December’s +2.4 (6.7 – 9.1 – 12.5, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW “106.7 Lite FM” is #1 for the 18^th successive sweep. A combined +.6 in August and September (6.9 – 7.1 – 7.5, 6+), “Lite FM” posted a 13.1 (6+) in “Holiday” 2017. Advancing from #19 to #15, WNYC Broadcasting Foundation-owned WQXR “New York’s Classical Music Radio Station” nets nine-tenths in four straight up or flat reports (1.4 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 2.0 – 2.3, 6+). Significant ups/down continue for Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish tropical WSKQ “La Mega 97.9,” which was a collective +.5 in October and November (4.3 – 4.7 – 4.8, 6+); -.6 in December; and now +.8 in “Holiday” 2018 (4.2 – 5.0, seventh to fourth, 6+). Co-owned Spanish contemporary WPAT “Amor 93.1,” which had been up or flat four ratings periods in succession for an overall gain of nine-tenths (2.5 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 3.2 – 3.4, 6+), is a collective -.7 in December and “Holiday” 2018 (3.4 – 3.3 – 2.7, #13 to #14, 6+). Flat at #8, Emmis rhythmic CHR cluster-mate WQHT “Hot 97” is without an increase for the seventh straight time for a cumulative loss of three-tenths (4.0 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.7, 6+). Cumulus Media country WNSH “94.7 Nash FM” is off a collective three-tenths in three straight down or flat sweeps (2.3 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.0, #16 to #19, 6+).

Los Angeles

Spoken-Word Formats – Without an increase for the eighth time in a row for a collective -1.2 (4.4 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.2, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk KFI “AM 640” slips from sixth to ninth. Co-owned news/talk KEIB “AM 1150 The Patriot” is unchanged from December in (6+) share (.8) and (6+) market rank (#31). By dropping two-tenths (.8 – .6, 6+), Salem Media Group news/talk KRLA “AM 870 The Answer” drifts from #31 to #38. In consecutive sweeps, Cumulus Media-owned KABC gained two-tenths (.3 – .5 – .7, 6+), but “790 News-Talk-Evolved” is flat at .7 in “Holiday” 2018 (#35 to #33, 6+).

After practically doubling its 6+-stat (+.7) through three straight gains (.8 – .9 – 1.3 – 1.5, 6+), KSPN “710 ESPN” surrenders two-tenths in back-to-back survey periods (1.5 – 1.3 – 1.1, 6+) as the AM flagship of the Super Bowl-bound Los Angeles Rams dips from #26 to #27. Prior to August’s loss of four-tenths, KSPN gained one-tenth in three straight sweeps (.9 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.2, 6+). Following ten (10) successive ratings periods without a loss – in which time it more than quintupled (+1.7) its 6+ AQH share (.4 – .4 – .5 – .9 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.7 – 2.1, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KLAC “AM 570 LA Sports” spiraled by -1.4 in December. It stabilizes at .7 (6+) in “Holiday” 2018 yet climbs from #35 to #33. KLAC is the flagship of the NL champion Los Angeles Dodgers and is among the key stations of the NFL’s Los Angeles Chargers.

Up three-tenths in December (2.8 – 3.1, 6+), Entercom’s KNX “1070 News Radio” regresses by one-half share to 2.6 (6+) and exits the top ten (#9 to #13).

The eleven (11) most recent 6+ stats for Pasadena City College news/talk KPCC “The Voice of Southern California” (#14 to #16) are an extremely steady 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.6 – 2.7 – 2.5 – 2.3.

Los Angeles Music Formats – Not only is iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST on top for the third straight time, “Coast 103.5” is up for the fifth ratings period in succession for an overall +8.4 (4.6 – 4.7 – 4.9 – 5.1 – 9.0 – 13.0, 6+). Its “Holiday” 2018 6+-stat (13.0) exceeds the combined total of the #2 (Entercom classic hits-oldies KRTH 4.4, 6+); #3 (iHeartMedia hot AC KBIG, 4.0, 6+); and #4 (Entercom smooth AC KTWV, 3.6, 6+) finishers. KOST logged an 11.9 (6+) in “Holiday” 2017. Its all-Christmas music challenger this year – Mt. Wilson FM Broadcasters’ KKGO – picks up three-tenths to 2.7 (6+) and progresses from #16 to #12. In four of the last five reports, “Go Country 105 FM” notched a 2.4 (2.4 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.4 – 2.4, 6+). An increase of two-tenths to 2.4 (6+) boosts Entercom alternative KROQ from #20 to #14 and curtails four successive down or flat sweeps that accounted for a loss of seven-tenths (2.9 – 2.8 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.2, 6+). As a result of five straight down or flat trends (5.1 – 5.0 – 5.0 – 4.5 – 4.4 – 4.4, 6+), co-owned KRTH (third to second) has lost a collective seven-tenths. “K-Earth 101” was on top in October 2018. Prior to that sweep, the last time a non-iHeartMedia-owned station was #1 in Los Angeles was November 2015 – and it was “K-Earth” with a 5.7 (6+). When KBIG gained two-tenths in December, it snapped at five a consecutive string of decreases that resulted in an overall loss of -1.1 (5.8 – 5.7 – 5.6 – 5.5 – 4.8 – 4.7, 6+). In “Holiday” 2018, however, “104.3 My-FM” sputters by nine-tenths (4.9 – 4.0, second to third, 6+). KBIG spent five successive months at #1before being dislodged (by KRTH) in October. Within 4.0 – 4.9 range (6+) in each of the last 19 survey periods, co-owned mainstream CHR KIIS falters by one-half share to 3.5 (fourth to fifth, 6+); “102.7 Kiss FM” was off four-tenths in December. Meanwhile, Entercom’s similarly-formatted KAMP “97.1 Amp Radio” is within 2.0 – 2.9 territory for the 19^th time in a row (flat at 2.3, #18 to #16, 6+). As the result of four consecutive gains (1.6 – 1.8 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.3, 6+), KUSC was a collective +.7, but the University of Southern California classical outlet slips by two-tenths (2.1, #19 to #20, 6+). Without an increase for the eighth time in a row (2.6 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.0 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.4, #23 to #24, 6+), Univision Radio regional Mexican KSCA “Zona MX 101.9” is an overall -1.2 in that period. Meanwhile, Liberman Broadcasting’s similarly-formatted KBUE “Que Buena” is down or flat for the fifth straight sweep for an overall loss of four-tenths (2.5 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 2.1, 6+) but continues at #20. The June 2018 – September 2018 (6+) topline for KXOS was 2.0 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.3, but regional Mexican “Mega 96.3” is unlisted for the fourth sweep in a row.

Chicago

Spoken-Word Formats – A collective -1.0 in December and “Holiday” 2018 (3.2 – 2.6 – 2.2, 6+), Tribune Media news/talk WGN departs the top twenty (#18 to #21). Immediately prior to the December sweep, the key station of the Chicago White Sox logged three straight up or flat trends for a collective +.7 (2.5 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 3.2, 6+). Dipping from #23 to #26, Cumulus Media news/talk WLS-AM has a May 2018 through “Holiday” 2018 topline of 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.4 – 1.1 (6+).

Up one-tenth in back-to-back ratings periods (2.8 – 2.9 – 3.0, 6+), Entercom sports talk WSCR “670 The Score” (flagship for both the Cubs and Bulls) proceeds from a three-way tie at #12 to a three-way scrum at #9. WSCR was up eight-tenths in September and then -1.5 in October and November (4.3 – 4.2 – 2.8, 6+). In four straight sweeps without a loss (1.0 – 1.2 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5, 6+), ESPN-owned WMVP was up one half-share, but “ESPN Chicago 1000” surrenders three-tenths in “Holiday” 2018 (1.2, #22 to #24, 6+).

In four consecutive months without a loss, Entercom news outlet WBBM-AM was a collective +1.1 (4.6 – 4.8 – 5.6 – 5.7 – 5.7, 6+), but the flagship of the NFL’s Chicago Bears falters by four-tenths to 5.3 (6+) and carries on in the runner-up slot. It shifted from first to second in December.

By losing three-tenths to 2.6 (#12 to #14), Chicago Public Media news/talk WBEZ ends four straight up or flat trends that generated a gain of seven-tenths (2.2 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.9 – 2.9, 6+), with December’s 2.9 its best 6+-showing since April 2018’s 3.0.

Chicago Music Formats – On the heels of December’s +5.2 (3.2 – 8.4, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT “93.9 Lite FM” piles on a +4.9 to 13.3 (6+) and repeats at #1. WLIT was 12.4 in “Holiday” 2017. One of WLIT’s AC rivals – Venture Technologies Group’s WRME-LP “FM 87.7 Me TV” – is down or flat for the fifth successive time for a collective -1.5 (3.8 – 3.8 – 3.4 – 3.3 – 2.7 – 2.3, #16 to #19, 6+). Following three straight showings of 3.7 (6+), Entercom-owned WUSN dropped three-tenths in December. Now, “US-99 Chicago’s Hottest Country” falters by twice that margin (3.4 – 2.8, -.6, 6+), tumbling out of the top ten (#9 to #13). WUSN had been within 3.0 – 3.9 range in each of the past 17 ratings periods. At the same time, iHeartMedia’s WEBG “Big 95.5 – Chicago’s New Country,” which was without a gain the past four sweeps for a collective -.4 (1.8 – 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.4 – 1.4, 6+), picks up one-tenth (1.5, #23 to #22, 6+). Entercom urban-rhythmic oldies WBMX “104.3 Jams,” a collective +.5 in November and December (3.0 – 3.1 – 3.5, 6+) forfeits that entire increase (3.0, -.5, eighth to ninth, 6+). While it is unchanged at #3, iHeartMedia urban AC WVAZ “V-103” is a collective -1.2 in six straight down or flat trends (6.1 – 6.0 – 5.7 – 5.7 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 4.9, 6+). Repeating at #7, Cumulus Media-owned WLS-FM “94.7 Chicago’s Classic Hits” is a cumulative -1.8 in four straight drops (5.4 – 5.0 – 4.8 – 4.0 – 3.6, 6+).

San Francisco

Spoken-Word Formats – Even though it is off for the third time in succession for a -1.0 (3.1 – 2.6 – 2.3 – 2.1, 6+), Cumulus Media news/talk KSFO advances from #16 to #15. KSFO was up seven-tenths in October, after being a combined -1.0 in August and September (3.4 – 3.0- 2.4, 6+). Cluster-mate KGO has a September 2018 – “Holiday” 2018 topline of 1.8 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 1.8 (#19 to #20, 6+). August’s increase of four-tenths ended four successive down or flat trends that resulted in a collective loss of three-tenths (2.0 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.7, 6+).

In a down-up pattern (2.9 – 2.5 – 2.9 – 2.6 – 2.7, 6+), co-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” moves from #14 to #12. Prior to November, KNBR was without an increase in the previous three ratings periods for a cumulative -1.2 (3.7 – 3.7 – 2.9 – 2.5, 6+). Erasing December’s gain of four-tenths with a “Holiday” 2018 loss of four-tenths (2.2 – 1.8, 6+), Entercom’s similarly-formatted KGMZ “95.7 The Game” dips from #17 to #18. KGMZ was a combined +.6 in three straight up or flat trends (1.5 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.1, 6+), before faltering by two-tenths in November.

All-news cluster-mate KCBS-AM adds one-tenth to December’s +.4 (5.3 – 5.7 – 5.8, 6+) and repeats at #3. KCBS-AM had been at #2 ten (10) straight sweeps before shifting to #3 in December.

Following 11 straight months at #1, Northern California Public Broadcasting news/talk KQED (7.6 – 7.5, -.1, 6+) segues to #2. December 2018’s 7.6 is its best 6+-performance since May’s 8.1. Its gain of four-tenths in September ended five downward trends in a row that accounted for a -2.5 (8.9 – 8.4 – 8.1 – 7.1 – 6.7 – 6.4, 6+). More than doubling its 6+-share (+.5) in seventh straight up or flat trends (.4 – .5 – .5 – .5 – .6 – .6 – .7 – .9, 6+), San Francisco Unified School District’s KALW “91.7 Local Public Radio” moves from #30 to #29.

San Francisco Music Formats – Having leaped from sixth to second in December, Bonneville-owned adult contemporary KOIT-FM (6.4 – 10.7, +4.3, 6+) marches to #1. In “Holiday” 2017, KOIT-FM recorded a 9.2 (6+). Meanwhile, its AC rival – iHeartMedia’s KISQ “98.1 The Breeze” – is off a combined nine-tenths in three drops in a row (4.7 – 4.4 – 4.1 – 3.8, flat at #4, 6+). In addition to picking up one-tenth to 2.0 (6+), which halts at five a consecutive string of down or flat trends that led to a loss of six-tenths (2.5 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.1 – 2.0 – 1.9, 6+), Entercom rhythmic hot AC KRBQ “Q-102.1” moves into the top twenty (#21 to #19). Erasing December’s -.5 with a “Holiday” 2018 +.5 (3.5 – 3.0 – 3.5, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned urban contemporary KMEL “106.1 #1 for Hip-Hop and R&B” zooms from tenth to fifth. December’s 3.0 was its lowest 6+-stat since November 2017’s 2.6. A collective -1.1 in November and December (3.6 – 3.0 – 2.5, 6+), co-owned KOSF “iHeart 80s @ 103.7,” which was up eight-tenths in November, drifts from the top ten (#10 to #14). After posting one-half share increases in consecutive sweeps (2.1 – 2.6 – 3.1, 6+), University of Southern California-owned classical outlet KDFC drops one-tenth to 3.0 (6+) but remains at #9. In five straight reports without an increase (2.1 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.4, #23, 6+), Entercom alternative KITS “Alt 105.3 The Bay Area’s Alternative” is an overall -.7. At #25, co-owned KUFX “98.5 K-Fox The South Bay’s Classic Rock” has lost nine-tenths in five consecutive negative or flat trends (2.2 – 2.2 – 2.0 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.3, 6+), while Empire Broadcasting’s KRTY “Hot Country 95.3” hasn’t had an increase in five straight reports and has surrendered 50% (.9) of its 6+share in that stretch (1.8 – 1.5 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.2 – .9, #27, 6+).

Dallas

Spoken-Word Formats – Without a loss five months in a row for a collective +1.1 (2.1 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 2.8 – 3.2, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WBAP is now a combined -.9 in December and “Holiday” 2018 (3.2 – 2.7 2.3, #16 to #19, 6+). Just prior to the September sweep, “News Talk 820” posted a 2.2 (6+) in three of the previous five ratings periods (2.2 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.2, 6+). Flat at #35, Salem Media Group-owned KSKY “660 AM The Answer” is an overall -.4 in four straight down or flat trends (.9 – .9 – .7 – .6 – .5, 6+), while Cumulus Media’s KLIF-AM “570 News & Information” is without an increase for the fourth time in a row (.5 – .4 – .4 – .4 – .3, flat at #36, 6+).

With its sixth straight sweep without a loss for a +.5 (2.1 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.6 – 2.6, 6+), Entercom’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” progresses from #18 to #14. It overtakes Cumulus Media-owned KTCK “The Ticket – All Sports, All The Time,” which is off a collective eight-tenths in three dips in a row (3.2 – 3.1 – 2.9 – 24, 6+) and slumps from #14 to #18. Meanwhile, ESPN’s KESN “103.3 ESPN Dallas,” which was a collective +.3 in four straight up or flat moves (.9 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.2 – 1.2, 6+), is off one-tenth in consecutive reports (1.2 – 1.1 – 1.0, #31 to #33, 6+).

Down or flat for the fifth straight time for an overall decline of three-tenths (2.3 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.0 – 2.0, 6+), Entercom news-talk hybrid KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” departs the top twenty (#20 to #23). Going back to “Holiday” 2016, KRLD-AM is within a high of 2.8 and a low of 2.0.

North Texas Public Broadcasting news/talk KERA is unchanged from December in 6+-share (3.1) and 6+-market rank (#13). Before September’s +.4 to 3.0, KERA logged a 6+-stat in the two-share range for 37 consecutive sweeps.

Dallas Music Formats – In eight successive sweeps without a loss, iHeartMedia adult contemporary KDGE has 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+), as “Star 102.1” marches from third to first. In “Holiday” 2017, “Star” logged a 6.4 (6+). On top the past 12 reports, iHeartMedia-owned KHKS “106.1 Kiss – Dallas/Fort Worth’s Hit Music” (6.3 – 5.9, -.4, 6+) shifts to #3. After a combined -1.4 in June and July, “Kiss” was +1.1 in August and down one-half share in November. Having posted a 4.3 (6+) in three of the last six sweeps (4.6 – 4.3 – 4.0 – 4.6 – 4.3 – 4.3, 6+), Entercom classic hits-oldies KLUV erupts with a +1.8 to 6.1 (6+) and leaps from fifth to second with its best 6+-showing (6.1) since 7.2 in Holiday 2017. A combined +1.4 in four successive improvements (3.2 – 3.8 – 4.0 – 4.4 – 4.6, 6+), Salem Media Group contemporary Christian KLTY “94.9 Your Life … Inspired” carries on at #4. At the same time. WAY Media’s similarly-formatted KAWA “WAY-FM Uplifting-Upbeat-Real” has been +.7 (September); -.8 (October); +.6 (November); and a combined -.9 in December and “Holiday” 2018 (2.1 – 1.9 – 1.2, #30, 6+). Showing December 2018 – “Holiday” 2018 gains of six-tenths each are iHeartMedia’s KEGL “97.1 The Eagle Rocks” (3.8, #11 to #6, 6+) and City of Dallas-owned WRR “Classical 101” (1.6 – 2.2, #21, 6+). “The Eagle” had been off a cumulative one-half share in four straight down or flat trends (3.7 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.2 – 3.2, 6+). Through five consecutive sweeps without an increase, Service Broadcasting urban AC KRNB was a combined -1.0 (3.1 – 3.1 – 2.9 – 2.8 – 2.3 – 2.1, 6+), but “105.7 Smooth R&B” is up four-tenths to 2.5 (#19 to #16, 6+). Within 5.0 – 5.5 territory (6+) in each of the last 12 survey periods, iHeartMedia classic rocker KZPS “Lone Star 92.5” erodes by -1.2 to 4.2 (second to fifth, 6+). Although it remains at #6, Cumulus Media’s KSCS “New Country 96.3” is -1.4 in six straight down or flat reports (5.2 – 4.3 – 4.3 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 3.8, 6+). July 2018’s 5.2 represents the best-ever 6+ share in KSCS’ PPM history and the first time it ever reached the five-share level (6+).

Houston

Spoken-Word Formats – Replicating its December loss of seven-tenths (4.3 – 3.6 – 2.9, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk KTRH fades from #11 to #16. “News Radio 740” posted a November gain of six-tenths to 4.3, its strongest 6+-stat since February 2017’s 4.4. KTRH was a combined -.9 in August and September (4.1 – 3.6 – 3.2, 6+) and up one-half share in October.

In six straight up or flat trends (.9 – .9 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.3 – 1.4, 6+), Entercom’s KILT-AM “Sports Radio 610” is a collective +.5 as the AM flagship of the Houston Texans repeats at #22. Gow Communications’ KFNC “ESPN 97.5” notches a .8 (6+) for the fourth straight month and continues at #25, while KTRH cluster-mate/Houston Astros flagship KBME “Sports Talk 790” drops one-tenth (.6 – .5, 6+) and is flat at #28.

Not only is KUHF without an increase for the sixth successive time for a collective -1.5 (3.4 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.0 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 1.9, 6+), the University of Houston news/talk station exits the top twenty (#20 to #21).

Houston Music Formats – An adult contemporary station holds the #1 position in each of the top six PPM-markets. In this Texas metro, iHeartMedia’s KODA “Sunny 99.1” tacks on a +2.4 to December’s +2.2 (7.5 – 9.7 – 12.1, 6+) and sets the pace for the ninth straight time. In “Holiday” 2017, “Sunny” recorded a 12.5, the station’s strongest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2016’s 10.3 and the first time any Houston facility reached double-digits (6+) since that particular ratings period. Advancing from seventh to sixth, KSBJ Educational Foundation contemporary Christian KSBJ “89.3 – God Listens” is an overall +1.5 via six straight sweeps without a loss (3.3 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 4.0 – 4.2 – 4.8, 6+). Similarly, Radio One rhythmic CHR KBXX “97.9 The Box” is a collective +1.6 as the result of five upticks in succession (3.5 – 3.9 – 4.1 – 4.3 – 4.6 – 5.1, sixth to fourth, 6+). Another positive streak, however, draws to a close as Univision Radio regional Mexican KLTN “Que Buena 102.9,” which was a collective +3.3 through five successive increases (4.7 – 5.0 – 5.2 – 6.0 – 6.8 – 8.0, 6+), erodes by -1.5 to 6.5 (6+) but continues in the runner-up slot. An improvement of one-tenth to .9 (#26 to #23, 6+) by Radio One CHR KROI “92.1 Radio Now” curtails seven ratings periods in succession without an increase for a collective loss of four-tenths (1.2 – 1.1 – .9 – .9 – .9 – .9 – .8 – .8, 6+). This marks the seventh straight sweep without an increase for iHeartMedia alternative KTBZ “94.5 The Buzz,” which is an overall -1.8 since June 2018 (5.0 – 5.0 – 4.7 – 4.5 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.8 – 3.2, #9 to #14, 6+). In four straight reports without an increase, Cox Media Group’s KKBQ “93-Q Country” is a collective -1.5 (5.4 – 4.7 – 4.6 – 3.9 – 3.9, flat at #8, 6+). A cumulative -2.0 in five successive sweeps without an increase (5.7 – 5.0 – 4.9 – 4.2 – 3.7 – 3.7, 6+), Entercom adult hits KKHH “95.7 The Spot” departs the top ten (#10 to #11).

Atlanta

Spoken-Word Formats – There’s truly major news here as Cox Media Group news/talk WSB-AM – which had been #1 the past 37 sweeps – erodes by a combined -2.1 in December and “Holiday” 2018 (8.6 – 7.9 – 6.5, 6+) as it segues to #2. Prior to November 2018, WSB-AM was a collective +1.1 in three straight gains (7.5 – 7.9 – 8.2 – 8.6, 6+). Cumulus Media’s WYAY “106.6 Where Atlanta Comes to Talk” is off two-tenths (1.4 – 1.2, #21 to #22, 6+); WYAY was -1.0 in August (2.3 – 1.3, 6+). Recording its seventh sweep in a row without a loss for an overall gain of six-tenths (.1 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .4 – .5 – .6 -.6 – .7, 6+), Entercom news/talk WAOK jumps from #28 to #25.

Co-owned sports talk/Atlanta Falcons flagship WZGC “92.9 The Game” drops one-tenth (4.2 – 4.1, 6+) yet improves from ninth to eighth. Prior to November 2018, WZGC was an overall +1.7 in four consecutive positive moves (2.2 – 2.5 – 3.2 – 3.3 – 3.9, 6+). Flat at #19, Dickey Broadcasting’s WCNN “Sports Radio The Fan” is off two-tenths (2.0 – 1.8, 6+). After three straight down or flat trends for a collective -.5 (2.4 – 2.0 – 1.9 – 1.9, 6+), the Atlanta Braves flagship picked up one-tenth in December.

As a result of five straight up or flat trends, WABE was a collective +1.2 (3.1 – 3.5 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 4.3, 6+), but the City of Atlanta Board of Education news/talk outlet surrenders half that increase (3.7, -.6, 6+) and exits the top ten (#7 to #11). Georgia State University news/talk WRAS is unchanged from December in both 6+-share (.7) and 6+-market rank (#25).

Atlanta Music Formats – Not only does Salem Media Group contemporary Christian WFSH follow up December’s +1.0 with a +3.2 (4.4 – 5.4 – 8.6, 6+), “The Fish” swims from fourth to first. In advance of the December sweep, WFSH posted three negative trends in succession that accounted for an overall -1.5 (5.9 – 5.3 – 4.8 – 4.4, 6+). In “Holiday” 2017, “The Fish” notched an 8.5 (6+). Registering increases of one-half share each are Entercom urban contemporary WVEE “V-103 The People’s Station” (6.3, flat at #3, 6+) and Cox Media Group adult contemporary WSB-FM “B-98.5” (5.6, steady at #5, 6+). “V-103” was a combined -1.4 in November and December (7.2 – 6.1 – 5.8, 6+), while “B-98.5” snaps at three a consecutive string of (slight) decreases that accounted for a loss of four-tenths (5.5 – 5.4 – 5.3 – 5.1, 6+). Faltering by seven-tenths each are Radio One urban AC and gospel siblings WAMJ “Majic” (5.1 – 4.4, fifth to seventh, 6+) and WPZE “Praise 102.5 Atlanta’s Inspiration Station” (3.7 – 3.0, #13 to #15, 6+). For the last ten (10) sweeps, “Majic” had been within 5.1 – 5.6 range (6+). In an up/down pattern (3.4 – 4.0 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 3.2, 6+), Cumulus Media-owned WKHX “Kicks 101.5 – Atlanta’s #1 For Country Hits” departs the top ten (#10 to #14). Its format rival, iHeartMedia’s WUBL “94.9 The Bull,” is a collective +1.0 via three straight increases (2.9 – 3.5 – 3.8 – 3.9, tenth to ninth, 6+). November’s gain of six-tenths followed three consecutive decreases that led to a -1.1 (4.0 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 2.9, 6+). Having more than doubled (+1.0) its 6+-stat in three straight positive spikes (.8 – 1.2 -1.3 – 1.8, 6+), Cumulus Media-owned rhythmic CHR WWWQ-HD3 drops three-tenths and departs the top twenty (1.5, #20 to #21, 6+). By gaining one-tenth (3.3 – 3.4, #15 to #12, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WWPW “Power 96.1 Atlanta’s #1 Hit Music Station” catches Cumulus Media’s WWWQ “Q-100 Atlanta’s New Hits” (3.8 – 3.4, -.4, #10 to #12, 6+). “Power” was -1.2 in December, while “Q-100” was -.6. Entering the December 2018 sweep, “Power” had been without a loss the previous seven sweeps for a cumulative +1.1 (3.4 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.5, 6+). When “Q-100” lost one-tenth in October, it snapped at four a consecutive string of up or flat moves that netted three-tenths (4.0 – 4.0 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 4.3, 6+).

Philadelphia

Spoken-Word Formats – Flat at #18, Entercom’s WPHT “Talk Radio 1210” is an overall -.9 in December and “Holiday” 2018 (2.9 – 2.1 – 2.0, 6+), immediately following seven straight ratings periods without a decrease that generated a +1.4 (1.5 – 1.6 – 1.7 – 2.2 – 2.5 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 2.9, 6+). Steady at 1.3 (6+), Townsquare Media news/talk WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” climbs from #23 to #22.

The flagship of the Eagles and Phillies – Entercom’s WIP – was -.8 (February 2018); -2.9 (March); +1.1 (April); -.8 (May); -.5 (June); +.7 (August); +1.4 (October); -1.0 (November); and now +.8 in “Holiday” 2018 (6.3 – 7.1, fourth to second, 6+). “Sports Radio 94.1” was #1 in October. Without a loss for the fourth time in a row for an overall +1.0 (1.8 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 2.8, 6+), Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” zooms from #15 to #12. Prior to October, the key station of the 76ers and Flyers was without an improvement the previous five months for an overall -1.0 (2.8 – 2.3 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 1.9 – 1.8, 6+).

Up seven-tenths in August, Entercom’s KYW “News Radio 1060” spirals by eight-tenths in “Holiday” 2018 (5.1 – 4.3, flat at #7, 6+).

Public news/talk WHYY is a collective -1.1 via three declines in a row (3.8 – 3.4 – 3.0 – 2.7, #11 to #14, 6+). An August increase of one-half share interrupted three successive negative trends for an overall -1.1 (4.4 – 3.7 – 3.6 – 3.3, 6+).

Philadelphia Music Formats – Registering the largest (6+) December 2018 – “Holiday” 2018 increase of any station in the 12 PPM-markets shown here, Entercom adult contemporary WBEB (10.4 – 16.6, +6.2, 6+) repeats at #1. “Today’s 101.1 More FM” was on top from March through June before being dislodged in July. It dialed up a 17.0 (6+) in “Holiday” 2017. Immediately prior to October, WBEB was a collective -2.2 in three consecutive decreases (8.5 – 7.8 – 6.5 – 6.3, 6+). It has a new format challenger: In mid-November, iHeartMedia transitioned rhythmic hot AC WISX “Real 106.1” to adult contemporary as “106.1 The Breeze – Philly’s Relaxing Favorites.” WISX was off eight-tenths in its first report as an AC (December 2018), but rebounds with a gain of one-half share (2.5 – 3.0, #17 to #11, 6+). On the heels of December’s -1.0 (7.4 – 6.4, 6+), Entercom classic hits-oldies WOGL “98.1 – Nobody Plays More 80s” further erodes by -1.4 (6.4 – 5.0, third to fifth, 6+). November’s increase of six-tenths applied the brakes to three straight negative trends that accounted for a combined -1.4 (8.2 – 7.5 – 7.0 – 6.8, 6+). WOGL finished first in August and segued to second in September. It’s not exactly the same scenario, but Beasley Media Group’s WMMR “93.3 Everything That Rocks” follows December’s -.6 with a “Holiday” 2018 -1.0 (6.5 – 5.9 – 4.9, flat at #6, 6+). Prior to December, WMMR had been an overall +1.1 via four straight up or flat trends (5.4 – 6.0 – 6.1 – 6.1 – 6.5, 6+). Erasing December’s eight-tenths’ gain with a “Holiday” 2018 loss of nine-tenths (7.4 – 6.5, 6+), iHeartMedia urban AC WDAS-FM shifts from second to third. “Philly’s Best R&B and Throwbacks” was locked on 6.6 (6+) in October and November. Off seven-tenths each are Beasley Media Group’s WMGK “Classic Rock 102.9 MGK” (6.2 – 5.5, fifth to fourth, 6+); Entercom’s WXTU “92.5 Philadelphia’s Country Station” (4.3 – 3.6, eighth to ninth, 6+); and iHeartMedia CHR WIOQ “Q-102 Philly’s #1 Hit Music Station” (2.8, #10 to #12, 6+). Trending 6.8 – 6.6 – 6.8 – 6.9 (August through November, 6+), WMGK dropped seven-tenths in December. “Philadelphia’s Country Station” was -1.1 in December and +.6 in November. After a September gain of four-tenths, WXTU surrendered more than twice that increase with a loss of nine-tenths. The September 2018 through December 2018 topline for “Q-102” was 3.5 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.5 (6+).

Long Island

Spoken-Word Formats – After doubling its 6+ share (+1.8) in September and October (1.8 – 2.8 – 3.6, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WOR “710 The Voice of New York” is a combined -1.5 via three decreases in succession (3.6 – 3.1 – 2.2 – 2.1, #15 to #16, 6+). Down (slightly) or flat for the fourth straight sweep (1.5 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.3 – 1.3, 6+), Cumulus Media news/talk WABC nonetheless inches up from #26 to #25. Its August increase of one-tenth stopped four consecutive down or flat moves that accounted for a loss of three-tenths (1.5 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.2, 6+).

Despite recording its third drop in a row for a collective -1.4 (5.6 – 4.8 – 4.4 – 4.2, 6+), Entercom sports talk WFAN advances from fifth to fourth. In November, the flagship of the Giants, Brooklyn Nets, and Yankees was in a three-way tie at #1. It wiped away October’s +.6 with a November loss of eight-tenths. The key station of the New York Jets – WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” – is a collective -.5 through three decreases in a row (2.2 – 2.1 – 1.9 – 1.7, #19 to #20, 6+). As was the case with WFAN, similarly-programmed WEPN gained six-tenths in October (1.6 – 2.2, 6+). “ESPN New York” had been off seven-tenths in four straight down or flat trends (2.3 – 2.0 – 1.8 – 1.6 – 1.6, #22, 6+), immediately after five consecutive upticks for a +1.2 (1.1 – 1.2 – 1.3 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.3, 6+).

Entercom all-news WCBS-AM is off three-tenths (3.2 – 2.9, ninth to tenth, 6+), while co-owned/similarly-formatted WINS loses four-tenths (3.2 – 2.8, #9 to #11, 6+). The two cluster-mates were tied in December and separated by one-tenth of a share in November. Prior to December, WCBS-AM was up nine-tenths in six straight up or flat trends (2.4 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 3.3, 6+), while WINS was up six-tenths in October;

From February 2018 – September 2018, WNYC Broadcasting Foundation news/talk WNYC-FM trended 1.6 – 1.9 – 1.6 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 2.0 (6+) and ranked #19 in September. It was unlisted in October and November; resurfaced in December (2.0, 6+); and is off three-tenths in “Holiday” 2018 (1.7, #17 to #19, 6+).

Long Island Music Formats – Repeating at #1, Connoisseur Media hot AC WALK-FM “97.5 – Real Variety” adds a +4.0 to December’s +2.1 (4.4 – 6.5 – 10.5, 6+). “Real Variety” was off one-half share in November. This (10.5) is its strongest 6+-performance since “Holiday” 2017 (12.6). More than tripling (+6.4) its 6+-stat in seven Long Island sweeps in succession without a loss (2.8 – 2.9 – 3.3 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.8 – 6.3 – 9.2, 6+), iHeartMedia New York City adult contemporary WLTW “106.7 Lite FM” carries on at #2. “Lite FM” recorded an 8.5 (6+) in “Holiday” 2017. Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish tropical WSKQ “La Mega 97.9” more than doubles (+1.4) its 6+-stat through five consecutive upticks (1.2 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.8 – 2.1 – 2.6, #16 to #12, 6+). This is the third straight decrease for Connoisseur Media adult contemporary WKJY “Long Island’s K-98.3” for a -1.0 (4.2 – 4.1 – 4.0 – 3.2, sixth to eighth, 6+). Making identical 3.1 – 2.4, -.7, #11 to #14 (6+) moves are Emmis urban AC WBLS “107.5 – #1 For R&B” and Connoisseur Media classic hits-oldies WBZO “103.1 Max FM,” which was off eight-tenths in December WBLS is an overall -1.5 in five straight down or flat trends (3.9 – 3.8 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.1 – 2.4, 6+). Erasing December’s gain of three-tenths with a “Holiday” 2018 decrease of one-half share (3.1 – 2.6, 6+), iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR WKTU “103.5 The Beat of New York” falls from #11 to #12. Albeit that it is an overall -1.9 in six straight sweeps without an increase (5.0 – 4.5 – 4.3 – 3.7 – 3.3 – 3.1 – 3.1, 6+), Cox Media Group-owned WBAB “102.3 – Long Island’s Only Classic Rock” returns to the top ten (#11 to #9). Not only is Emmis rhythmic CHR WQHT “Hot 97” down or flat for the seventh consecutive time for an overall decline of -1.3 (2.8 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.4 – 2.3 – 2.1 – 1.9 – 1.5, 6+), “Hot 97” drops out of the top twenty (#19 to #24). Prior to December, WQHT had been within 2.0 – 2.9 territory (6+) the previous 49 consecutive Long Island ratings periods. In six straight sweeps without an increase, Cumulus Media country WNSH “94.7 – Nash FM” has lost 50% (-1.2) of its 6+ AQH share (2.4 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.0 – 1.5 – 1.2, flat at #26, 6+).

Riverside

Spoken-Word Formats – This is the third straight down or flat trend for iHeartMedia news talk KKDD “1290 News Talk IE” (.4 – .2 – .2 -.2, 6+), which departs the top twenty (#20 to #21). KKDD debuted in July with a .2 (6+); gained one-tenth in August; was flat in September; and up one-tenth in October.

Co-owned KPWK “Fox Sports Radio 1350 AM” (formerly KUBE) disappeared from print in June; resurfaced in July (.2, 6+); dropped one-tenth in August; added one-tenth in both September and October; dropped one-tenth in November; was flat at .2 in December; and is off one-tenth in “Holiday” 2018 to .1 (#20 to #24, 6+). Similarly-formatted/Los Angeles Angels-owned (LAA 1, LLC) KLAA “Angels Radio AM 830” is unlisted for the 12^th month in a row.

A -.4 in December by KVCR wiped away a +.4 via three straight modest increases (1.3 – 1.4 – 1.6 – 1.7, 6+). Now in “Holiday” 2018, the San Bernardino Community College news/talk station forfeits another two-tenths (1.3 – 1.1, #12 to #13, 6+). Pasadena City College news/talk KPCC “The Voice of Southern California” is a collective -.4 in three straight losses (.6 – .4 – .3 – .2, #18 to #21, 6+).

Riverside Music Formats – A collective +1.6 in four straight up or flat trends (2.3 – 2.3 – 2.7 – 3.2 – 3.9, 6+), Good News Radio contemporary Christian KSGN “89.7 – Family Friendly” advances from sixth to fourth. December’s 3.2 marked the first time KSGN reached the three-share level since January 2018’s 3.1. Conversely, Educational Media Foundation’s similarly-formatted KLRD “Air 1 – Worship Now,” which was up a collective seven-tenths in November and December (1.5 – 2.0 – 2.2, 6+), surrenders one-half share to 1.7 (6+) and departs the top ten (#10 to #11). Anchored in the runner-up slot for the eighth time in a row, Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA erases December’s loss of four-tenths with a gain of one-half share (6.7 – 7.2, 6+). KOLA hit #1 in May 2018 with a 6.5 (6+). While Entravision’s KLYY “Jose” is #1 for the eighth successive sweep, it has the dubious distinction of suffering the largest (6+) December 2018 – “Holiday” 2018 decrease of any station in the 12 PPM-markets shown here (10.5 – 8.5, -2.0, 6+) and is the only #1 station in these 12 markets to show a dip from December 2018. “Jose” was +1.1 in December and +2.5 in September. December 2018’s 10.5 marked the first time any Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario station reached double-figures (6+) since April 2015, when KLYY recorded a 10.4. A loss of four-tenths in October ended five straight increases that netted an astonishing +5.3, more than doubling its 6+-stat since April (4.6 – 6.4 – 6.5 – 6.9 – 7.4 – 9.9, 6+). LC Media urban-rhythmic oldies KQIE “Old School 104.7” is a collective -1.7 via four straight negative trends (3.8 – 3.4 – 3.1 – 2.8 – 2.1, eighth to ninth, 6+). Up one-tenth (1.3 – 1.4, steady at #12, 6+), Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KRCD “Recuerdo” is in one-share range (6+) for the 17^th successive ratings period.

San Jose

Spoken-Word Formats – Stuck on 2.2 (6+) in November and December, after November’s loss of eight-tenths, Cumulus Media’s KGO is off one-tenth to 2.1 (#16 to #18, 6+). Prior to November’s -.8, KGO posted four upticks in a row for a cumulative +1.3 (1.7 – 1.9 – 2.4 – 2.8 – 3.0, 6+). Co-owned news/talk KSFO, which was frozen on 1.2 (6+) in October and November, is a collective -.3 in December and “Holiday” 2018 (1.2 – 1.0 – .9, #28 to #27, 6+). Its +.1 in October ended three consecutive downward moves that resulted in the disappearance of exactly half (-1.1) of its 6+-share (2.2 – 2.0 – 1.8 – 1.1, 6+).

Sports talk cluster-mate KNBR “The Sports Leader” is a combined -1.6 in five straight down or flat moves (4.4 – 3.4 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 2.9 – 2.8, #14 to #13, 6+), while Entercom sports talk KGMZ “95.7 The Game,” which was a collective +.9 in November and December, is off one-tenth (1.5 – 1.4, #23 to #25, 6+).

All-news sibling KCBS-AM, which was off by one-half share in November (6.2 – 5.7, 6+) and up two-tenths in December, is flat at 5.9 (fifth to fourth, 6+).

Unlisted in October and November, Northern California Public Broadcasting news/talk KQED returned in December with a 6.7 (6+); it adds four-tenths to 7.1 (6+) and continues at #2. In December, San Francisco Unified School District news/talk KALW debuted with a .5 (6+) and adds two-tenths to .7 (unchanged at #30, 6+).

San Jose Music Formats – Having recorded a gain of one-tenth in September, October, and November, Entercom adult contemporary KOIT-FM is a combined +6.8 in December and “Holiday” 2018 (3.0 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.3 – 6.0 – 10.1, 6+), leaping from fourth to first. KOIT-FM was 7.6 (6+) in “Holiday” 2017 and is also #1 in San Francisco. In three straight San Jose slips, iHeartMedia’s similarly formatted KISQ is an overall -1.9 (4.5 – 3.8 – 3.0 – 2.6, #13 to #14, 6+); “98.1 The Breeze” was a combined +1.0 in September and October (3.5 – 4.2 – 4.5, 6+). An overall +1.7 in October and November (6.3 – 6.9 – 8.0, 6+), Alpha Media classic hits-oldies KBAY “94.5 Bay FM – The Bay’s Greatest Hits” is a combined -1.8 in December and “Holiday” 2018 (8.0 – 6.9 – 6.2, 6+); after three straight months at #1, it falls to third. In November, “Bay FM” reached the eight-share level (6+) for the first time since “Holiday” 2016 (8.0, as well). Prior to October, the last time KBAY held the lead spot was “Holiday” 2015 – when it was an adult contemporary outlet. An overall -2.4 as the result of three declines in succession (6.2 – 6.0 – 5.4 – 3.8, 6+), Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KBRG “Amor 100.3” is now an overall +1.5 in December and “Holiday” 2018 (3.8 – 4.4 – 5.3, seventh to fifth, 6+). At the same time that Alpha Media hot AC KEZR “Mix 106 – Today’s Best Music” erodes by -1.5 (5.0, third to sixth, 6+), iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted KIOI “Star 101.3” plummets by eight-tenths (4.6 – 3.8, sixth to seventh, 6+ ). “Mix” had been +2.5 in three straight up or flat trends (4.0 – 5.1 – 6.5 – 6.5, 6+). Having posted a +1.2 in October and a +.7 in November, “Star” relinquished one-half share in December. A December gain of four-tenths by Empire Broadcasting’s KRTY halted three consecutive negative trends that resulted in a collective -2.4 (6.1 – 5.4 – 4.5 – 3.7, 6+), but “San Jose Hot Country 95.3” falters by eight-tenths in “Holiday” 2018 (4.1 – 3.3, ninth to tenth, 6+). Prior to the aforementioned negative streak, “Hot Country” was an overall +2.1 via five successive gains (4.0 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.5 – 5.1 – 6.1, 6+). November’s 3.7 marked the first time KRTY was below a four-share (6+) since January’s 3.8. A collective +1.3 in November and December (2.4 – 2.9 – 3.7, 6+), iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR KYLD “Wild 94.9 – The Bay’s #1 Hit Music Station” regresses by seven-tenths to 3.0 (#11 to #12, 6+). Three increases in a row netted Bonneville-owned KUFX a collective +1.7 (5.2 – 6.7 – 6.8 – 6.9, 6+) but it is now -3.1 in four straight declines (6.9 – 5.9 – 4.8 – 4.3 – 3.8, 6+). Even so, “98.5 K-Fox The South Bay’s Classic Rock” progresses from eighth to seventh. Before shifting to #3 in October, KUFX had been #1 for three straight months. Flat at #26, Cumulus Media classic rocker KSAN “107.7 The Bone” is an overall -1.1 as a result of five straight down or flat trends (2.3 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 1.9 – 1.3 – 1.2, 6+).

Middlesex

Spoken-Word Formats – After holding down the top spot the past six sweeps, Townsquare Media news/talk WKXW (8.0 – 6.9, -1.1, 6+) shifts to the runner-up slot. When it lost three-tenths in December, “New Jersey 101.5” had its consecutive string of increases that netted +2.3 halted at six (6.0 – 6.4 – 6.8 – 7.1 – 8.0 – 8.2 – 8.3, 6+). November 2018’s 8.3 was its best 6+-share since January 2018 (8.3, as well). An overall -1.0 in December and “Holiday” 2018 (3.4 – 2.8, 2.4, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WOR drops from #16 to #17. Entering the December sweep, WOR was without a loss the previous five ratings periods and precisely doubled (+1.7) its 6+-share (1.7 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 2.3 – 3.0 – 3.4, 6+). Down or flat for the seventh straight time for an overall loss of roughly half (-.9) its 6+ AQH share (1.7 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.2 – .8, 6+) Cumulus Media news/talk WABC remains at #26.

While even at #13, Entercom sports talk WFAN, which was up seven-tenths in October, is now -1.0 via three consecutive slips (4.2 – 3.7 – 3.4 – 3.2, 6+). Its October increase ended four Middlesex-Somerset-Union decreases in succession that accounted for a -.9 (4.4 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.6 – 3.5, 6+). Through five consecutive up or flat trends, similarly-programmed WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” was +1.2 (1.7 – 1.9 – 2.1 – 2.5 – 2.9 – 2.9, 6+), but the flagship of the New York Jets relinquishes half that increase (-.6) in December and “Holiday” 2018 (2.9 – 2.5 – 2.3, #19 to #18, 6+).

The seven-tenths advantage Entercom all-news WCBS-AM held in December over co-owned/similarly-formatted WINS is down to two-tenths as WCBS-AM falters by four-tenths (2.3 – 1.9, #20 to #22, 6+), while WINS picks up one-tenth (1.6 to 1.7, #24 to #23, 6+). Before losing two-tenths in December, WCBS-AM was up eight-tenths via three straight increases (1.7 – 1.9 – 2.2 – 2.5, 6+). Prior to November, WINS, which was up two-tenths in December, recorded a 1.7 (6+) in each of the previous six Middlesex-Somerset-Union monthlies.

Missing from print in October and November, WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM reappeared in December (2.6, #18, 6+) but is down six-tenths in “Holiday” 2018 (2.0, #21, 6+). An August gain of three-tenths halted five straight losses (3.4 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.2 – 1.9 – 1.8, 6+) that accounted for a nearly 50% erosion of its 6+ share (-1.6).

Middlesex Music Formats – In addition to being +3.4 (6+) in its home (New York City) market and +2.9 (6+) in Long Island, iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW “106.7 Lite FM” is +4.9 in Middlesex and storms from second to first. Moreover, in five straight Middlesex-Somerset-Union improvements (4.9 – 5.1 – 5.4 – 5.8 – 6.5 – 11.4, 6+), WLTW is an overall +6.5. It is #1 in New York City, as well; “Lite” notched an 11.5 (6+) in “Holiday” 2017. The (6+) adult contemporary share in Middlesex swells by an additional +1.7 as Beasley Media Group’s WMGQ “Magic 98.3 Today’s Hits/Yesterday’s Favorites” boosts from 4.1 to 5.8 (seventh to third, 6+). This (5.8) is the highest 6+-share for “Magic” since February 2018’s 5.9. As a result of four successive down or flat moves (5.4 – 5.0 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 4.3, fourth to fifth, 6+), iHeartMedia mainstream CHR WHTZ “Z-100” is off by a collective -1.1. Trending a very consistent 3.7 – 3.9 (6+) from June 2018 through December 2018 (3.7 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.9 – 3.7 – 3.9, 6+), Cumulus Media country WNSH “94.7 Nash FM” falters by one-half share to 3.4 (ninth to tenth, 6+). Entercom classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM “101.1 New York’s Greatest Hits” was +.4 through three straight up or (mostly) flat July through October trends (3.7 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.1, 6+); -.6 in November; +.9 in December; and now -.4 in “Holiday” 2018 (4.4 – 4.0, fifth to sixth, 6+). November’s 3.5 was its lowest 6+ Middlesex showing since 3.3 in September 2016.

Tuesday, January 22, 2018

TALKERS | January 22, 2019

The Epoch Times: A New Resource for Talk Radio. For those in the talk media business not already aware of The Epoch Times, it is a multi-language newspaper with a mission statement asserting that it aims to serve society by “providing credible, quality news that is honest and unbiased, and never slanting from the influence of outside interests.” The declaration on the Epoch Media Group website banner reads, “To report truthfully on important topics that other media choose not to touch.” The organization was founded in 2000 by John Tang and a group of Chinese Americans responding to censorship in China. Today, in addition to covering the breadth of national and international news, The Epoch Times focuses on exposing communist propaganda in China and abroad. In a recent Epoch Times piece by editor-in-chief Jasper Fakkert titled, “Never Trumpers Learn Resistance Is Futile,” he writes, “Whether one agrees with the policies of the Trump administration or not, there is no denying that Donald Trump’s presidency is transforming America. This is something that most Americans genuinely care about. We see the Trump administration’s efforts to change socialist policies in America, as well as set policies to counter infiltration and subversion by China, as remarkable reversals from past policies, and sincere efforts that, if fully realized, will benefit America and the world as a whole.” Learn more about this amazing news organization and its value to talk media practitioners here.

Juliano to Lead Townsquare Media’s Rockford, Illinois Cluster. Management and sales pro Mike Juliano is named the market president and chief revenue officer for Townsquare Media’s Rockford, Illinois station group that includes news/talk WROK and three music radio outlets. He was most recently director of sales for Beasley Media Group’s Detroit operations. He’s also held sales positions at Entercom Boston, Westwood One, Cox Media Group, and more. Townsquare COO-Local Media Erik Hellum states, “Few people are as passionate as Mike is about our industry, about building great teams, and helping our clients grow their business, as he has proven over and over again in his career. With our ‘local first’ focus, Townsquare is very proud to have someone of Mike’s caliber joining our company and leading our Townsquare Rockford team. And as an added bonus I finally get to work with Mike, which I’ve been trying to do for 30 years!”

TALKERS News Notes. Nationally syndicated talk radio host Larry Elder was a featured speaker at the BLEXIT LA conference – a gathering of conservative Blacks and Latinos that took place in Los Angeles last Sunday – and the Salem Radio Network personality argued the two groups have not been served well by the Democratic Party and its policies over the years. Read coverage of his appearance at BLEXIT LA in Breitbart here…..San Diego sports talk host Dan Sileo (mornings on Entercom’s KWFN “93.7 FM The Fan” ) is filling in on the company’s WEEI, Boston tomorrow night (1/23) from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Sileo guest-hosted last Friday evening’s program, as well…..FOX Sports Radio will be broadcasting live from Atlanta next week for its Super Week coverage leading up to Super Bowl LIII. Its daily shows – Clay Travis, Doug Gottlieb, Dan Patrick, Rich Eisen, and others – will all broadcast from Turner Sports studios in Atlanta…..A new podcast from Unqualified Media is being launched, co-hosted by actor Topher Grace and Sim Sarna called “Minor Adventures with Topher Grace.” The show consists of the two interviewing a celebrity with a twist added later in the program, such as the introduction of a lie detector test…..Pictured below are Paul Glickman of the Radio Television News Association and KPCC (left) and Westwood One News correspondent Jim Roope (right) as Westwood One News received its fourth consecutive Golden Mike award in the “Best News Reporting” category from the organization during last Saturday’s ceremony in Los Angeles.

Government Shutdown, Border Wall Battle, Trump-Russia Investigation, DC Protest Controversy, Democrats’ Agenda, 2020 Presidential Race, BuzzFeed Report-Mueller Statement, Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday, and NFL Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/21). The ongoing federal government shutdown; the battle over funding for President Trump’s U.S.-Mexico border wall; the investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russia agents; the case of the viral video of students and Native American protestors in Washington, DC; the agenda of congressional Democrats and conservatives’ charges they are tilting farther to the left; the 2020 presidential candidates, including the entrance of Kamala Harris into the race; BuzzFeed’s report that President Trump told Michael Cohen to lie to Congress and the special prosecutor’s statement calling that inaccurate; Monday’s Martin Luther King Jr. holiday; and the NFL playoffs 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. Programming pro Mike Nelson exits his position with Riverbend Communications’ Idaho Falls stations where he’d been operations manager and program director for adult contemporary KLCE and CHR KFTZ “Z103.”…..In Chicagoland, media maven Robert Feder reports that Alpha Media unveils its new lineup at hot AC WXLC, Waukegan. Wes McKane is the new morning host after Jimmy Novak’s departure last week. He’s joined by Leah Anderson as co-host. Evening host Jason Cornell slides into the afternoon drive daypart and promotions director Janelle Rominski adds evening host duties…..At iHeartMedia’s Columbus/Albany, Georgia cluster Brian Paiz exits the SVP of programming position he’s held for the last 18 months.

The Epoch Times: A Resource for News/Talk Radio

TALKERS | January 22, 2019

By Mike Kinosian
TALKERS magazine
Managing Editor

LOS ANGELES — “The press is the enemy of the people.”

Irrespective if he actually believes or means it, Donald Trump consistently receives thunderous applause at his numerous rallies whenever he utters that proclamation.

Never holding back when it comes to isolating by specific name those he deems to be the worst offenders, the president seemingly takes immense delight in watching his base react in vociferous endorsement when he denigrates the mainstream media.

Most notably spared, of course, are conservative talk radio, as well as the Fox News Channel, and a few select others.

Monday, January 21, 2018

TALKERS | January 21, 2019

Monday Memo: Carpe Trump. Consultant Holland Cooke writes in his weekly Monday Memo for TALKERS magazine that conservative news/talk stations should be working overtime to capitalize on the Trump presidency. Cooke references a recent column in The New York Times by Frank Bruni in which he observes the president is covered by the media as “spectacle” and that makes Trump the “star” no matter what. Cooke reasons that since the best way to increase ratings share with news/talk radio is to increase the TSL of its P1s, stations should “be to radio what Fox News Channel is to TV” – a safe space for like-minded conservatives. Read the Monday Memo here.

Entercom and DC’s ‘Sports Junkies’ Renew; Plan for Regional Distribution. The WJFK-FM, Washington, DC “106.7 The Fan” morning drive program “The Sports Junkies” and Entercom agree to a long-term extension of their contract. “The Sports Junkies” are John Auville, Eric Bickel, Jason Bishop and John-Paul Flaim. Entercom DC SVP and market manager Phil Zachary states, “Since 1996, ‘The Sports Junkies’ have driven the sports conversation in Washington, DC and we couldn’t envision ‘The Fan’ without them. As the unrivaled leaders in local sports coverage, we are pleased to continue our relationship with the team.” The station says the program “is consistently rated number one among Washington, DC men aged 18-49, according to Nielsen 2018 ratings.” It adds that “plans will be announced later this month for the program to be broadcast beyond Washington, DC to affiliates across the Mid-Atlantic region.”

Harvey Wells Exits Mid-West Family Broadcasting’s Springfield, Illinois Cluster. As reported by Chicago media maven Robert Feder, radio sales and management pro Harvey Wells has resigned from his position as market manager for Mid-West Family Broadcasting’s Springfield, Illinois station group that includes news/talk WMAY-AM/FM and three music-formatted stations. Wells served the Chicago market for years leading the then-CBS RADIO cluster of radio stations. Wells is quoted saying, “I cannot say enough good things about Mid-West Family Broadcasting and feel fortunate to have spent two-plus years at an employee-owned company. It truly makes a difference when you walk in the door and your fellow workers also have an ownership interest in the company. However, the one family that has to come before the Mid-West Family is my own.”

Government Shutdown, Border Wall Issue, BuzzFeed Report-Mueller Statement, DC Students-Protestors Incident, 2020 Presidential Race, Deadly Mexico Pipeline Blast, Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday, and NFL Championship Games Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The ongoing federal government shutdown; the battle over funding for President Trump’s U.S.-Mexico border wall; BuzzFeed’s report that President Trump told Michael Cohen to lie to Congress and the special prosecutor’s statement calling that inaccurate; the case of the viral video of students and Native American protestors in Washington, DC; Democrats lining up to challenge President Trump in 2020; the gas pipeline explosion in Mexico that killed more than 85 people; today’s Martin Luther King Jr. holiday; and the NFL Conference Championships 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. According to a report by Chicago media writer Robert Feder, sports talk WSCR “The Score” weekend and fill-in host Barry Rozner – who is also a sports columnist with the Daily Herald – is considering leaving the station before the next season of the baseball show “Hit & Run” begins this spring. Feder says Rozner has been in communication with station operations manager Mitch Rosen saying, “We’re still communicating, and we’ll see what comes of it, but I don’t – at this moment – see a path to returning. No hard feelings. No one to blame. There’s just no role there for me comparable to the last 10 years when I hosted nearly 1,400 shows. If it’s over, I will miss ‘Hit & Run’ more than I can properly express. It was a great run and I’m grateful for the opportunity Mitch gave me.”…..The sports media 2019 BSM Summit is taking place at The Grammy Museum in Los Angeles February 21-22. Barrett Sports Media president Jason Barrett says the event “will feature a star-studded lineup of guest speakers,” including CBS Sports personality Jim Rome, who will do a one-on-one with Barrett. See more about the Summit here.….The NFL’s Indianapolis Colts officially name Matt Taylor the play-by-play voice for radio coverage of the team’s games. Taylor has been part of the team’s broadcast operations since 2012. He takes over the role handled by Bob Lamey, who exited the position after a controversial incident in which he used a racial slur off the air…..Binghamton market public broadcaster WSKG announces coming programming changes that will make it easier for listeners to find the programming they desire. Currently, both WSKG-FM and WSQX-FM are airing programming consisting of news, conversation and music. On February 3, the company will move all news and talk programming to WSKG-FM – its NPR member station – and WSQX will air classical, jazz and folk music programming…..Pictured below are the hosts of last Friday’s inaugural 2019 iHeartRadio Podcast Awards that took place at the iHeartRadio Theater LA in Burbank, California. You can see all the categories and winners here. Below from left to right are: Holly Frey, Bobby Bones, Charlamagne tha God, and Mario Lopez. (Photo: Getty Images for iHeartMedia)

WPGG, Atlantic City’s Harry Hurley Sponsors Broadcast Booth at Local Science Center. Through his “Hurley in the Morning” charity, WPGG, Atlantic City morning host Harry Hurley donated $3,500 to the Patcong Creek Foundation Science Center in Atlantic County, New Jersey on January 19. The charity sponsors the “Harry Hurley Broadcast Booth” in which Hurley is pictured above.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. In New York City, air personality Ralphie Aversa exits his evening show at Cumulus Media’s hot AC WPLJ, as well as the company’s WPRO-FM, Providence and WBHT, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton where the show also aired. WPLJ APD Mike Allen is now handling evenings…..Chicago market hot AC WXLC, Waukegan parts ways with morning show personality Jimmy Novak. He posted on Facebook, “The old building and loan has decided to cut ties with me as morning show host. It’s been a fun decade of shows and I feel lucky to have worked with some incredible people. I’m truly blessed with great memories and I look forward to new challenges and staying up past 7:30.”…..The 2019 iHeartRadio ALTer Ego concert took place on Saturday at The Forum in Inglewood, California featuring: Twenty One Pilots, Rise Against, Muse, The Killers, Weezer, plus Bishop Briggs and The Revivalists. Pictured below are The Revivalists with KYSR, Los Angeles midday personality Tamo Sein. (Photo: Getty Images for iHeartMedia.)

Monday Memo: Carpe Trump

TALKERS | January 21, 2019

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

BLOCK ISLAND, RI — To quote acclaimed media strategist George Costanza, Rush Limbaugh affiliates should “do the opposite” of what New York Times opinion columnist Frank Bruni recommends in a thoughtful recent piece entitled, “Will the Media Be Trump’s Accomplice Again in 2020?”

He observes that “readers and viewers, no matter how much they complain about the media’s shallowness, reward it.” Ditto radio listeners, if we offer them an unambiguous proposition. Knowing that you are busy, I don’t ask casually. But reading his piece will be worth your time:

Friday, January 18, 2019

TALKERS | January 18, 2019

News/Talk KFOR, Lincoln, Nebraska Honored with NAB Crystal Heritage Award. The Lincoln, Nebraska news/talk station will be honored at this spring’s 2019 NAB Show in Las Vegas at the “We Are Broadcasters Celebration” on Tuesday, April 9. The NAB Crystal Heritage Award recognizes stations that have won a total of five Crystal Radio Awards for exceptional year-round community service efforts. Seven other stations have received this honor in the 32-year history of the NAB Crystal Radio Awards. Alpha Media Lincoln market manager Julie Gade says, “KFOR AM/FM has proudly served the Lincoln, Nebraska region for over 94 years, and our commitment to the community has never wavered. We are so proud of our team’s accomplishments both on and off the air and are honored that this dedication is being rewarded with a coveted NAB Crystal Heritage Award.”

FSR’s Clay Travis Hits 300-Affiliate Mark with ‘Outkick the Coverage’ Program. The Premiere Networks and FOX Sports Radio-syndicated “Outkick The Coverage with Clay Travis” program hits the 300-affiliate mark with the recent additions of stations including: KKSE-AM/FM, Denver; WGFX-FM, Nashville; WEEX-AM/WTKZ-AM, Allentown; and WBCN-AM/W234BY, Charlotte. Travis is entering his third year with the network. He also recently joined FS1’s first-ever, daily gambling TV show “Lock It In” as a co-host alongside Rachel Bonnetta, “Cousin Sal” Iacono, and Todd Fuhrman. In a joint statement, Premiere SVP sports programming Don Martin and VP sports programming Scott Shapiro say, “We couldn’t be more pleased with the growth of ‘Outkick the Coverage.’ Clay and his team have consistently set new listening records, which promises for continued momentum and a lot more success in the future. We are excited to share many more achievements with our affiliate partners around the country.”

Inaugural iHeartRadio Podcast Awards Take Place Tonight. The first-ever iHeartRadio Podcast Awards show will take place tonight in Los Angeles and the evening’s ceremonies will be streamed live via Twitter. Hosts for the 90-minute event will include Premiere Networks syndicated personalities Bobby Bones, Charlamagne Tha God, and Mario Lopez, as well as podcaster Holly Frey. There are 22 categories with 17 having been voted on by listeners while the remaining five will be decided by a panel of judges.

Blass to Leave Pirates Broadcast Booth After 2019 Season. At the end this year’s baseball season, former Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher and longtime play-by-play crew personality Steve Blass will retire from his role with the team. Blass has been working with the team’s radio and television crews since 1983. The 76-year-old Blass has been calling only home games on radio and TV since 2005.

WTOP, Washington Traffic Reporter Dave Dildine Saves Woman from Drowning. Washington, DC traffic reporter Dave Dildine was out in last Sunday’s snowstorm taking photos in Rock Creek Park when he heard a woman struggling in the creek under one of the park’s bridges. He called out to her and told her to swim to shore. But as he prepared to call for help on his cell phone, he saw her go under and made the decision to walk out onto the ice to try to pull her in. The ice broke and he fell into the creek but was able to drag 27-year-old Sarah Kirkpatrick out of the water and stay with her until emergency crews arrived. Read the whole story at WTOP’s website here.

The Battle Over the Border Wall Top News/Talk Story for Week of January 14-18. The battle between President Trump and House Democrats over funding for a wall at the U.S.-Mexico border was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers Ten^TM. At #2 this week was the related federal government shutdown. Coming in at #3 was the Trump-Russia investigation tied with the allegations of campaign finance violations against the Trump campaign, followed by the House Democrats’ legislative agenda and the potential 2020 presidential candidates tied at #4. The Talkers Ten^TMis 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.

SPOTLIGHT CHINA: Award-Winning Investigative Reporter Joshua Philipp of The Epoch Times Is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast. Is the world’s most populous country, with a rich cultural history dating back thousands of years, a friend or foe to the United States? Joshua Philipp is one of America’s most knowledgeable journalists on the subject of China and the existential threats it poses to US interests in the arenas of politics, economics, cybersecurity, and defense. He is a recognized expert on unrestricted warfare, asymmetrical hybrid warfare and subversion. Philipp is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series “The Michael Harrison Interview.” His on-the-ground investigations in 2008 onward into connections between Chinese consulates, spy networks, and organized crime circles in New York City – and more than a decade of research and investigations on this and related topics – give him unique insight into the global threat presented by today’s repressive Communist Chinese government. Harrison and Philipp take a deep dive into the subversive ways in which China and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) operate both domestically and behind the scenes on the world stage giving clear insight into such lightly covered news topics as the nefarious activities of its telecommunications giant Huawei and its recently arrested CFO, Meng Wanzou, in Canada. Harrison states, “The Epoch Times is an amazing worldwide news organization founded by Chinese-Americans as an objective counterpoint to Communist propaganda that should be on the radar of every American news/talk media host interested in the facts about the serious threat presented to US interests by our so-called ‘frenemy’ – China – and other worldwide events.” To listen to this extremely important 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 daily newsletter and every page of Talkers.com.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Longtime Lansing, Michigan jock Deb Hart is retiring from the radio business and her morning drive gig with Townsquare Media’s classic rock WMMQ to pursue a career as a full-time yoga teacher. Hart has worked in the market for decades. She’s currently co-host of the WMMQ morning show with Joey Pants – who will continue with the station hosting mornings – and previously served with Midwest Communications’ crosstown rock WJXQ. Her last show will be January 24…..iHeartMedia Atlanta is working with the Super Bowl Host Committee to open its iHeartRadio BoomBox Stage to activities from January 26 through February 2 during the 2019 Super Bowl LIVE week taking place at Centennial Olympic Park. The week-long stage of events will feature sets from iHeartRadio DJ’s and on-air personalities from the Atlanta cluster…..SiriusXM and legendary rock band KISS are presenting an invitation-only show for SiriusXM subscribers and VIPs on Monday, February 11 at the Whisky a Go Go on the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles. The exclusive performance will air on KISS’ exclusive SiriusXM channel, KISS Army Radio. KISS’ performance at Whisky a Go Go will launch SiriusXM’s “The Party Continues,” a new, live series that will feature music’s top artists performing in an intimate venue for SiriusXM subscribers following music’s biggest night at the Grammy Awards…..Pictured below is Columbia Nashville star Maren Morris (center) appearing on the syndicated Ty Bentli morning show in which she discussed her newest song “GIRL” and the coming GIRL: The World Tour. With her is Ty Bentli (left) and Chuck Wicks (right).

Thursday, January 17, 2019

TALKERS | January 17, 2019

WOR, New York to Launch Live and Local Evening Show. Beginning February 4, iHeartMedia’s WOR, New York “The Voice of New York” adds the new “WOR Tonight with Joe Concha & Lis Wiehl” to the program schedule in the 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm daypart. WOR program director Tom Cuddy says, “The New York area is known for its diversity and 710 WOR will be able to offer listeners just that each night with a unique mix of issues. Joe and Lis come from different sides of the political spectrum, which should make things quite interesting and unpredictable.” Concha is a reporter and columnist for The Hill and Wiehl is a former federal prosecutor, former investigative counsel for the House Judiciary Committee, a best-selling author and a legal analyst. The station says the new show “will be a New York-centric show spotlighting a mix of top news stories, politics, movies, television, Broadway, pop culture and consumer issues. Additionally, the hosts will offer their views on the stories of the day from both sides of the political aisle and will take calls from listeners.” Concha states, “Our show will obviously talk politics, but we’re also going to offer up the kind of news and views that people deal with every day. We want to tell stories people can relate to as well as empathize with and hope to make you laugh a few times in the process.” Wiehl adds, “This show is going to be a one-stop shop in a three-hour package, delivered to your radio. You’ll get hard news shared by two people who are news veterans and experts in the fields of law and media. Plus, you’ll get ‘water cooler’ news delivered to you by two hosts who are parents, taxpayers, pet owners, and pop culture enthusiasts.”

Radio for the 55+ Listener. Former WSYR-AM, Syracuse morning host Mark Wainwright writes a piece for TALKERS magazine in which he suggests that successfully reaching Baby Boomers with radio programming requires “rekindling their relationship with radio.” Wainwright states, “The 55-72 ‘Boomer’ demographic is the last generation that genuinely cared about radio. They grew up with radio, they were actively engaged with it, and it was an integral part of their lives. At a time when our industry is struggling to stay relevant, we need to reconnect with listeners who still care about us and what we offer.” Read the entire story here.

Mary Rogers to Lead Sales at Entercom’s Dallas Station Group. Sales and management pro Mary Rogers comes to Entercom Dallas from Cox Media Group’s San Antonio cluster where she was most recently director of sales. Effective January 28, she’ll assume the vice president and director of sales position for the cluster that includes news/talk KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080,” sports talk KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” and four music-formatted stations. She says, “I am excited to join Entercom Dallas, working alongside [SVP and market manager] Brian Purdy and his amazing team. I began my career in Dallas and it is a great feeling to be back working with these iconic brands and audiences.”

TALKERS News Notes. As reported by Chicago media maven Robert Feder, Violeta Podrumedic has left her role as afternoon traffic reporter on Tribune’s news/talk WGN-AM, Chicago to join the “Eric in the Morning” show – led by Eric Ferguson – on Hubbard Radio’s crosstown hot AC WTMX. She’s been part of WGN’s afternoon drive Roe Conn program since 2016…..Entercom confirms that Howie Rose will continue to call the play-by-play for the New York Mets as all-news WCBS-AM begins serving as the flagship station for Mets broadcasts this season. Rose will be joined by color analyst Wayne Randazzo. He was previously pregame and postgame host for the Mets. Longtime WFAN Mets beat reporter Ed Coleman will conduct pregame coverage, including the daily “Managers Show with Mickey Callaway.” Randazzo will host the station’s postgame coverage immediately following each game broadcast. WCBS 880 morning sports anchor Brad Heller will serve as the utility player on the team presenting sports coverage for the station, as well as fill-in on pregame coverage…..In Fredericksburg, Virginia, Alpha Media’s four-station group – including news/talk WNTX-AM/FM – is working to aid furloughed federal workers by creating a web page with listings of businesses from Northern Virginia and Southern Maryland that are assisting federal workers during the government shutdown. Many businesses are coming together to help the community during this time of need by providing free or reduced fee meals, services, groceries, and even temporary employment opportunities. Alpha Media Fredericksburg market manager Beth Vickers comments, “The Washington DC market is severely affected by the furlough. We feel Alpha Media Fredericksburg has a duty to provide support and information to government workers and their families during this time.”…..USA Radio nationally syndicated radio host Wayne Allyn Root reports that his television simulcast seen on Newsmax TV is getting a second daily airing on the cable TV network. His program airs live at 8:00 pm ET each evening. Now, repeats of the program will air on Newsmax TV the following day at 1:00 pm. Additionally, Root says all three hours of his radio show are available on-demand via iHeartRadio.

Border Wall Battle, Government Shutdown, Trump-Russia Investigation, 2020 Presidential Race, Brexit Chaos, U.S. Soldiers Killed in Syria, Nairobi Hotel Attack, Gillette Ad Controversy, Netflix Price Hike, and NFL Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/16). The political battle over President Trump’s efforts to build a wall at the U.S.-Mexico border; the effects of the federal government shutdown; the Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents; the possible candidates for president in 2020; British Prime Minister Theresa May survives a vote of no confidence after her Brexit plan fails; four U.S. soldiers are killed in Syria; the deadly terror attack on a hotel in Nairobi, Kenya; the controversy over Gillette’s ‘toxic masculinity’ ad; consumer backlash over Netflix’s announced price increases; and the NFL playoffs 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. Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports Entercom’s CHR WBBM-FM names Julia Lepidi its new evening host. She takes over for Corey B who left the station in November to transfer to the company’s alternative WNYL, New York “ALT 92.3.”…..As reported by Rodney Ho in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, Ali Mac has exited the morning drive show on Cumulus Media’s country WKHX “Kicks 101.5” where she worked alongside Cadillac Jack, who remains host of the AM program. Also, at the Cumulus Atlanta cluster, air personality Byron Cooper exits the evening show at CHR WWWQ “Q99.7” after 13 months in the position.

Radio for the 55+ Listener? It’s About Time

TALKERS | January 17, 2019

By Mark Wainwright

SYRACUSE — But the key to reaching this audience is in rekindling their relationship with radio. It takes more than just playing the right music.

If you’ve spent any time on social media recently, you probably noticed that long-time programmer and consultant John Sebastian has been working to generate interest in his proposed 55+ format. While the idea has received quite a bit of positive feedback, much of it is focused on the music mix. Yes, the right music is important, but the real key to this format’s potential has been overlooked, and it’s something that applies equally to both music and news/talk stations.

Wednesday, January 16, 2019

TALKERS | January 16, 2019

Cumulus Names Divello Market Manager for Abilene Cluster. Management and sales pro Paula Divello rises from director of sales for Cumulus Media’s Shreveport, Louisiana station group to vice president and market manager for its Abilene, Texas cluster that includes KTLT-FM “SportsRadio 98.1 FM The Ticket” and three music outlets. Divello says, “Thank you to Mary Berner and the Cumulus leadership team for this opportunity. I am enthusiastically looking forward to leading from the front in Abilene. It’s a strong cluster with an invested team, in a great market with tons of potential. I’ve learned and grown so much with Cumulus, experienced FORCE values and culture – and how consistently they drive success. It’s a privilege to have the opportunity to drive revenue, ratings, and community involvement for Cumulus as the new vice president/market manager in Abilene.”

Urban One Founder Cathy Hughes to Be Inducted into the NAB Hall of Fame. The founder and chairperson of Urban One, Cathy Hughes, will be inducted into the National Association of Broadcasters Broadcasting Hall of Fame at the 2019 NAB Show during the “Achievement in Broadcasting Dinner” on Monday, April 8 at the Encore in Las Vegas. Hughes built what was formerly Radio One after buying her first radio station – WOL-AM, Washington – in 1980. She became the first black woman to own a station in a major market. At WOL-AM, she created the “24-Hour Talk from a Black Perspective” format. Today’s Urban One is a publicly traded company operated by Hughes’ son Alfred Liggins III. NAB president and CEO Gordon Smith says, “Cathy Hughes is a truly remarkable broadcaster and entrepreneur whose contributions continue to greatly influence and drive our industry. We look forward to honoring Cathy with this well-deserved award at this year’s NAB Show.”

Facebook Announces Local News Initiative. Via a blog post by vice president of global news partnerships (former NBC and CNN news personality) Campbell Brown, social media behemoth Facebook announces “an expanded effort around local news in the years ahead.” Brown writes that the goal of the initiative is two-fold: to support “local journalists and newsrooms with their newsgathering needs in the immediate future; and helping local news organizations build sustainable business models, through both our product and partnership work. Over time, we think this work can have the added benefit of fostering civic engagement, which research suggests is directly correlated with people’s reading of local news.” She says Facebook will invest $300 million over the next three years. You can read about the breakdown of where that money is being spent here. Brown also says Facebook will hold a two-day “Accelerate: Local News” summit early this year that will be “devoted to local news, in partnership with Knight Foundation and the Online News Association. Our goal is to bring together top local US news organization leaders, entrepreneurs, technologists and funders to discuss, design and drive towards solutions that address today’s most pressing local news challenges.”

iHeartMedia and Fremont Street Experiences Announce Downtown Las Vegas Revitalization Plan. The Las Vegas operations of iHeartMedia announces a partnership with Fremont Street Experience in which it will move its regional office to downtown Las Vegas as part of an effort to revitalize and assist in the growth of downtown Las Vegas. The new Fremont Street location is scheduled to open in August 2019 includes a 15-year lease. The company says in a press release that it has designed a new “state-of-the-art facility to house their iconic brands and franchises – both broadcast and digital – including ‘Sunny 106.5,’ ‘93.1 The Mountain,’ ‘95.5 The Bull’ and ‘Real 103.9.’ The studios will feature cutting-edge design elements as well as digitally advanced technology and resources for talent and programmers that will help them connect even faster and easier with listeners delivering even more great content to the Las Vegas community.” iHeartMedia Las Vegas’ partnership with Fremont Street Experience will also include co-promotions of current downtown concerts and events, with additional opportunities to co-produce and create new events and concerts to drive awareness and visitation to the area. iHeartRadio in-studio guests and musical acts can also perform on one of Fremont Street Experience’s three stages in downtown Las Vegas.

TALKERS News Notes. This Friday night (1/18), sports talk personality Dan Sileo – who hosts mornings on Entercom’s sports talk KWFN, San Diego “97.3 The Fan” – will star on the evening show at the company’s WEEI-FM, Boston. The former University of Miami defensive tackle, who played his high school ball in Connecticut, will host “WEEI at Night” from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm two days before the hometown New England Patriots take on the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship game…..Twin Cities sports media personality Mike Max is named the new sports director at CBS’ WCCO-TV. He is currently host of “Sports to the Max with Mike Max” on Entercom’s news/talk WCCO-AM. There’s no official statement from Entercom about his status with the station but it appears he’ll leave his radio show to focus on the new gig…..Detroit sports talk host Matt Shepard – host of the “Shep, Shower ‘n’ Shave” morning program based at iHeartMedia’s sports talk WDFN-AM – is named the new play-by-play personality for Detroit Tigers television broadcasts, according to numerous Motor City media reports. Shepard’s radio program is syndicated regionally to a number of affiliate stations via the Michigan Media Network…..A number of new FM signals are added to the main 970 AM signal of iHeartMedia’s news/talk WFLA, Tampa. The company drops the classic hip hop format on a trio of translators – W233AV, Gulfport at 94.5; W256CT, Bayonet Point at 99.1; and W290BJ, West Tampa at 105.9 – and assigns them to WFLA-AM.

Border Wall Battle, Government Shutdown, Russian Sanctions, Trump-Russia Investigation, Gillette Ad Controversy, Barr Confirmation Hearing, Rep. Steve King Troubles, Brexit Deal Fails, ‘El Chapo’ Case, and NFL Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/15). The political battle over President Trump’s efforts to build a wall at the U.S.-Mexico border; the effects of the federal government shutdown; Republicans join the Dem-led effort to rescind Trump’s easing of sanctions on Russian firms; the controversy over Gillette’s ‘toxic masculinity’ ad; the senate confirmation hearing for attorney general nominee William Barr; the status of Rep. Steve King’s committee assignments in the aftermath of his ‘white supremacist’ comments; the failure of British Prime Minister Theresa May’s Brexit plan; the trial of Mexican drug kingpin Joaquin Guzman Loera; and the NFL playoffs 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. Longtime WTIC-FM, Hartford morning personality Gary Craig is retiring from the station after a 39-year career in morning drive radio. He tells his listeners he’s leaving the “Craig and Company” program in June. The 68-year-old Craig first worked for WTIC-FM in 1981. He left in 1992 to go across town to competitor WKSS, where he would stay for four years. He returned to WTIC-FM in 1996 and teamed up with John Elliott and has been there ever since…..iHeartMedia Barry Allen program director for adult contemporary KBFP “Sunny 105.3, Bakersfield’s Feel-Good Station,” effective January 22. He was most recently program director at the company’s CHR duo KCEZ-FM, Chico and KEWB-FM, Redding. iHeartMedia area SVP of programming Steve Weed says, “We’re excited to have Barry joining our iHeartMedia Bakersfield family. When we launched ‘SUNNY 105.3’ last year, we filled a major void for Bakersfield listeners and we’re confident that Barry will continue to build out the ‘SUNNY 105.3’ brand.”…..Cumulus Media makes a time shift for hot AC WPLJ’s “Todd & Jayde in the Morning.” It now airs from 5:30 to 8:30 to allow for the new “95 Minutes & More,” commercial-free music block from 8:30 am to 10:15 am.

WDRV, Chicago Seeks Associate Producer for ‘Sherman & Tingle’ Show. There’s a prime producer gig open in Chicago as Hubbard Radio is seeking an “incomparable call screener, celebrity guest-booker, street reporter, and content architect to join ‘The Sherman & Tingle Show’ as associate producer. Applicants should have at least five years of on-air experience in an ensemble setting; exemplary audio production skills are required in this position, specifically time sensitive, on-the-fly editing aptitudes; robust social media savvy essential, including real time integration and a clear understanding of the ever-evolving nature of the medium; proven record of accomplishment in locating/booking/delivering premiere celebrities from major league sports, television, movies, and other arenas of pop culture preferred.” To see the entire job posting, click here.

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

TALKERS | January 15, 2019

iHeartMedia Asks Bankruptcy Court for More Time. In a motion filed in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Houston yesterday (1/14), iHeartMedia asks the court to grant it more time in which it (the Debtors) may remove actions from its Modified Fifth Amended Joint Chapter 11 Plan of Reorganization. It is asking the court to give it until June 7, 2019 to address the matters. It says, “Given the size and scope of the Debtors’ capital structure and business operations, expeditiously moving toward exit from these chapter 11 cases will require significant effort. Due to the Debtors’ efforts to date, they are on track to consummate a restructuring that will maximize value for all stakeholders. As a result, the Debtors have not yet determined conclusively which Actions, if any, they will seek to remove. The extension requested herein will provide the Debtors with time to make informed decisions concerning which Actions to remove and will ensure that the Debtors’ rights to remove Actions can be exercised in an appropriate manner.” iHM notes that the rights of parties to the actions will not be unduly prejudiced. “If the Debtors ultimately seek to remove Actions pursuant to Bankruptcy Rule 9027, parties will retain their right to seek remand with respect to such Actions pursuant to section 1452(b) of the Judicial Code. Therefore, the Debtors submit that cause exists for the relief requested herein.”

KDKA-AM, Pittsburgh’s Marty Griffin Cancer-Free. Pittsburgh news/talk KDKA-AM announces that afternoon personality Marty Griffin – who’s been battling cancer since last year – is cancer free. Griffin co-hosts the 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm show with Wendy Bell on the Entercom station. He had a PET-CT scan at UPMC’s Hillman Cancer Center yesterday (1/14) and the results indicate he is officially cancer free. Griffin was diagnosed with HPV-related cancer near his throat and underwent weeks of chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy. He’ll continue with three more months of immunotherapy to increase his survivability rate. Griffin said upon learning the results of this latest test, “I won the lottery today, its Christmas morning, it’s just beautiful.”

Cattles Named PD at ‘ESPN Radio 94.1’ in Norfolk. Afternoon drive talk host Nick Cattles is promoted to program director at Max Media’s sports talker WVSP-FM, Norfolk-Virginia Beach “ESPN Radio 94.1.” Cattles served with the station from 2012 through 2017 when he left for a stint at now-Beasley Media Group’s WBZ-FM, Boston “98.5 The Sports Hub.” He returned to WVSP last June. About his promotion, Cattles says, “I’m so grateful for being named the new PD of ‘ESPN Radio 94.1.’ “I’ve loved my time working as a host at the station and now enthusiastically jump into this next challenge. I’d like to thank Keith Barton, Rusty James, and the ownership at Max Media for this opportunity.”

TALKERS News Notes. New York news/talk WABC will have a place at the radio row for Super Bowl LIII in Atlanta. The “Bernie and Sid Show” featuring Bernard McGuirk and Sid Rosenberg as well as Rosenberg’s “Sid Sports Sunday” programs will broadcast from the Atlanta Sheraton. The “Bernie and Sid” show will broadcast on Thursday and Friday. Rosenberg tells TALKERS magazine this is the first time a WABC show has gone on the road for the Super Bowl…..CBS News and Simon & Schuster announce a joint podcast/book project by popular “CBS SUNDAY MORNING” correspondent, humorist, and history buff Mo Rocca. His long love of obituaries has led him to write Mobituaries, an “irreverent but deeply researched appreciation of the people (and things) of the past who have long intrigued him — from an unsung Founding Father to the first Chinese-American superstar, from Neanderthals to the station wagon.” The Mobituaries podcast premieres January 17 with eight weekly episodes in the first season…..Television talk host, game show host and Premiere Networks nationally syndicated morning radio star Steve Harvey is hosting the “NFL Honors” program live from Atlanta’s Fox Theatre on Saturday, February 2. The two-hour primetime awards show is in its seventh year and is designed to recognize the NFL’s best players, performances, and plays from the 2018 season. It will air at 9:00 pm on CBS TV.

Border Wall Issue, Government Shutdown, Barr Confirmation Hearing, Federal Birth Control Ruling, 2020 Presidential Candidates, Rep. Steve King Troubles, Jayme Closs Case, Today’s Brexit Vote in U.K., and NFL Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/14). The ongoing battle over funding the U.S.-Mexico border wall; the issues surrounding the federal government shutdown; today’s senate confirmation hearing for attorney general nominee William Barr; federal judges block President Trump’s birth control mandate rollback; the potential Democratic candidates for president in 2020; U.S. Rep. Steve King has committee assignments taken away after white supremacist comments in NYT story; missing teen Jayme Closs escapes captor in Northern Wisconsin; today’s Brexit vote in the U.K.; and the NFL playoffs 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. The LGBTQ-targeted “Channel Q” format comes to Seattle as Entercom adds it to KNDD-HD2 and translator K277AE at 103.3 FM. Entercom Seattle SVP and market manager Jack Hutchison says, “We are thrilled to bring ‘Channel Q’ to Seattle. We’re passionate about giving a voice to the LGBTQ+ community and its allies, and look forward to partnering with people and organizations that help the LGBTQ+ community thrive in Seattle.”…..“The Breakfast Club” co-host Angela Yee is named the first-ever BSE Global Diversity, Inclusion and Community Engagement (DICE) Ambassador. As such, Yee will “play a prominent role in helping the organization build deeper connections to Brooklyn neighborhoods to further expand awareness of the company’s events and community initiatives. As part of her position, she will participate in BSE Global’s youth educational programs throughout the community.” Her nationally syndicated morning program is based at iHeartMedia’s WWPR, New York “Power 105.1.” Yee says, “As a Brooklynite, this borough holds a special place in my heart and I’m excited to represent BSE Global and identify opportunities that elevate our community to new heights. Brooklyn has a strong, historic relationship with both music and basketball, and I look forward to working with BSE Global to find new ways to deepen and celebrate that relationship within our community.”…..In Southeastern Wisconsin, Magnum Communications names Mitch Morgan morning show host at country WVTY, Racine. Morgan also hosts the afternoon show on the company’s sister country outlet WMBZ, West Bend “92.5 Buzz Country,” a position he’ll continue. Prior to his work with Magnum, Morgan served as music director at iHeartMedia’s country WMIL, Milwaukee for more than 25 years…..Two programming staff moves take place at Neuhoff Media’s Lafayette, Indiana station group. Jared Jesulaitis gives up the program director position at CHR WXXB “B102.9” and takes on the dual roles of sports director for the cluster and morning co-host on sports talk WASK-AM/W269DJ “101-7 The Hammer.” Rising from APD to program director for “B102.9” is Joe LeCay. Cluster vice president of programming Mike Shamus comments, “These guys have both worked very hard over the last few years and we are happy to see them move into positions that will make Lafayette an even stronger market for Neuhoff Media.”

iHeartMedia and The CW Renew for Television and Streaming Deal. Television network The CW and iHeartMedia announce a new, multi-year agreement for The CW to remain the exclusive television broadcaster and video streaming partner for the iHeartRadio Music Festival and the annual holiday iHeartRadio Jingle Ball event. The two have partnered for the events since 2012. Under the new agreement, The CW will air a “best of” special featuring one of iHeartRadio’s 2019 marquee events as well as live stream four of iHeartRadio’s Theater Shows from New York and Los Angeles. The CW Network president Mark Pedowitz says, “The CW has really enjoyed the incredible relationship we’ve shared over the years with our friends at iHeart, as we’re able to showcase for our fans the best of the best in the world of music. As the exclusive TV broadcast and video streaming partner, The CW is looking forward to continuing our tradition of starting our fall launch with the iHeartRadio Music Festival, celebrating the holiday season with Jingle Ball and adding some new events through the year.”

Monday, January 14, 2018

TALKERS | January 14, 2019

Talk Radio Host Lars Larson Banned from Twitter for 12 Hours. The story in the Willamette Week has the details of KXL, Portland-based, nationally syndicated talk host Lars Larson’s 12-hour ban from Twitter for his exchange with a Portland activist over a recent police shooting that resulted in the death of man reportedly schizophrenic and legally blind. Former Portland mayoral candidate Sarah Iannarone tweeted, “We know the police kill. [The] question is whether we will ever stop funding this deadly paramilitary force and start funding things that actually keep the people of Portland safe.” Larson was suspended for the following response, “Gee @sarahforpdx you think the cops make PDX dangerous? Read the story and you find the dead man was 1) paranoid schizophrenic 2) invaded a stranger’s home 3) fought with the officer 4) pulled a knife. What’s your millennial snowflake solution to that situation without the cops?” Responding to the ban Larson received for the tweet, Iannarone said Larson’s words “may not seem like much on the surface.” But complained that “whenever that account retweets me, it brings commenters into my sphere who hurl insult and innuendo my direction. I reported three other accounts resulting from the retweet that day that Twitter admins agreed were abusive or harmful.”

Ron & Don Fans Baffled by Show’s Abrupt, Unexplained Exit. This story in the Seattle Times was published on Saturday (1/12) and includes comments from TALKERS magazine publisher Michael Harrison. Friday’s launch of a new afternoon drive program – “Candy, Mike and Todd” – on Bonneville’s KIRO-FM Seattle caught fans of the “Ron and Don” show off guard. The story notes some 1,000 comments on the “Ron and Don Nation” Facebook page expressing their dismay at the show’s departure and anger with the lack of Bonneville’s explanation. Ron Upshaw and Don O’Neill had been with the station for 13 years. They didn’t shed much light on the controversy, either, probably due to a non-disparagement clause in their contracts. They wrote, “Life is not about what you got, it’s what you give. We are very appreciative to all our great advertisers and everyone in the Ron and Don Nation for giving so much of your time, your energy, and your resources over the last 22 years. Together we raised over 11 million dollars for causes in the community we all care about. From our families to yours, Thank You Seattle, Tacoma, Fife, and Fremont.”

KSTP-AM, Minneapolis Re-Brands as ‘SKOR North.’ Tomorrow (1/15) will be sports talk KSTP-AM’s first day as “SKOR North” as it shucks the “1500 ESPN” brand. Hubbard Radio says in a press release that the brand is now “a digital-first sports brand that will create and distribute content across multiple traditional and digital platforms, including 1500 AM, 94.5 FM HD2, streaming, a dedicated SKOR North app, podcasts, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.” In September, Hubbard dropped the “Garage Logic” show with host Joe Soucheray from the lineup, as well as Patrick Reusse’s show (PD Brad Lane exited as well). The new program schedule will still consist of ESPN Radio’s “Golic & Wingo” in morning drive, followed by the “Dan Le Batard with Stugotz” show. Local afternoon program includes the new “SKOR North Live with Matthew Coller,” followed by the drive time “[Phil] Mackie and Judd [Zulgad] Show with Ramie,” and a return to the airwaves of Patrick Reusse as one of the four 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm programs that will rotate throughout the year, depending on the season.

Monday Memo: CES 2019. Consultant Holland Cooke’s Monday Memo here at TALKERS magazine summarizes some of his takeaways from last week’s enormous CES 2019 in Las Vegas. Cooke reports that Consumer Technology Association vice president of market research Steve Koenig says we’re at the beginning of the “Data Age of Consumer Tech” and that means, “information about our listeners – whom advertisers want as customers – is gold.” See his entire report here.

WICC, Bridgeport Announces Programming News. Connecticut news/talk WICC-AM, Bridgeport announces it will continue to serve as an affiliate for New York Yankees baseball. In addition, the Cumulus Media station is adding FOX News Radio’s Brian Kilmeade show for the 10:00 am to 1:00 pm slot. It also is carrying Westwood One’s Ben Shapiro in the 10:00 pm to 12:00 midnight daypart.

Mike Rich to Lead Townsquare Media Danbury. Radio management pro Mike Rich is named market president and chief revenue officer for Townsquare Media’s Danbury, Connecticut group of sports talk WINE-AM “Sports Radio 940,” rock WRKI-FM “i95,” and WDBY-FM “Kicks 105.5.” Rich comes to Townsquare from his most recent position as CEO of digital media firm Irish Studio. He’s also served with Time Inc., Radio One, and AOL.

TALKERS News Notes. Albuquerque news/talk KKOB-AM’s new afternoon drive personality – former, longtime rock KZRR “94 Rock” morning personality T.J. Trout – is an unabashed “left of center,” “social liberal” who will take over 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm program on Cumulus Media’s conservative news/talk station on January 22. Trout talks about getting the gig and how he views his role on the station in a piece with Albuquerque Journal here…..The podcast “Red Pilled America” – an iHeartRadio original podcast – got some love from The Washington Times recently in an article about story-focused podcasts that target conservative listeners. The podcast is the work of husband and wife creative duo Patrick Courrielche and Adryana Cortez and the piece delves into how the program highlights stories rather than monologues to get the message across to listeners…..The NHL’s Boston Bruins and the Boston Bruins Foundation are holding the second annual Patrice Bergeron & 98.5 The Sports Hub’s Pucks & Paddles event on Thursday, February 7. The table tennis tournament will feature players from the active Boston Bruins roster, on-air personalities from Beasley Media Group’s sports talk WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub,” and patients from Floating Hospital for Children at Tufts Medical Center with all proceeds to benefit the hospital…..Beasley Media Group announces Jennifer Sulik is named to the newly created position of vice president of strategic partnerships at Beasley XP, the company’s esports division. Sulik was most recently founder and chief executive officer of Go Media Detroit, a digital media advertising agency. Previously, she worked in the digital sales division at WXYZ-TV, Detroit and UBM Tech in San Francisco, where she developed integrated business-to-business media campaigns targeting game developers and game industry influencers, including Game Developer Magazine, Gamasutra.com and Indiegames.com…..Across the pond, “Fix Radio” – the station for builders and tradespeople – will launch in Manchester, England today (1/14). Fix Radio is programmed by British talk radio pro Graham Mack and is based in London. Mack and Gaz Drinkwater present the daily morning show on the format.

The Trump-Putin Relationship, U.S.-Mexico Border Wall, Government Shutdown, Jayme Closs Case, Paris Bakery Bombing, Bezos Divorce, 2020 Presidential Race, Dems in Puerto Rico, Winter Snow Storm, and NFL Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. Reaction to weekend stories indicating the FBI was concerned about President Trump’s relationship with Russia’s Vladimir Putin; the battle over funding for a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border; the ongoing government shutdown; missing teen Jayme Closs is found after escaping her captor; the deadly bombing at a bakery in Paris; the divorce of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos; potential presidential candidates in the 2020 election; Democrat legislators are criticized for “partying” in Puerto Rico with lobbyists; the winter storm that swept across the Midwest to the Mid-Atlantic; and the weekend’s NFL playoff action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend according to ongoing research from TALKER magazine.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Programming pro Terri Avery is the new PD at Cox Media Group’s urban contemporary WALR, Atlanta “Kiss 104.1,” effective January 22. Avery was most recently radio station manager and an instructor at Carolina School of Broadcasting in Charlotte. Prior to that, she was OM/PD at WPEG and WBAV in Charlotte for 14 years. CMG Atlanta director of operations Chris Eagan says, “Terri is well-regarded in the radio industry. She is smart, engaging, a champion in talent coaching and an expert in urban AC. Her years of diverse experience make her a great addition to the ‘Kiss 104.1’ team.”…..Cumulus Media rock KSAN, San Francisco “107.7 The Bone” officially names Chasta Michaelis midday personality. She’s been interim host of the daypart since Steven “The Weedman” Seaweed in 2017. Chasta also serves as a cast member on the station’s “Lamont& Tonelli Morning Show,” a role she will continue along with her daily production of her daily Facebook Live chats from “The Bone” studios following each morning show…..Through a partnership between iHeartMedia and LiveXLive Media Inc – a global digital media company focused on live entertainment – the 2019 iHeartRadio ALTer Ego concert at the Forum in Los Angeles on January 19 – will stream live. LiveXLive chairman and CEO Rob Ellin comments, “Our mission is to bring our global audience of music fans the ‘best seat in the house’ for musically diverse concerts by the most popular artists. iHeartMedia, with its massive reach across radio, digital and social, and its culture-defining marquee events such as ALTer Ego, is undeniably a perfect fit.”…..According to a report by Chicago media maven Robert Feder, the “Rock ‘n’ Roll Roots” show with Bob Stroud that’s heard weekly on Hubbard Radio’s classic rock WDRV “97.1 The Drive” is getting another play. The show has been airing Sunday mornings from 7:00 am to 10:00 am but, as program director Rob Cressman says, “The ‘Stroud Crowd’ has been relentless in their quest to get ‘Roots’ scheduled a bit later in the day.” So, now the show also airs from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm…..Kelly J moves from evening jock to a member of the Jeff Pope morning show on All Pro Broadcasting’s hot AC KHTI, Riverside-San Bernardino…..Condolences to the family and friends of radio personality Michael “Mike” Walker, who died on January 7 at the age of 60. Walker worked at numerous radio stations during his career, including WIFM, Elkin; WKBC North Wilkesboro; and WWWC, Wilkesboro in North Carolina. He was the founder/operator of The Production Room where he produced and voiced more than 530 weekly episodes of the syndicated “Saving the 70s” show that focused on 1970s music and pop culture.

PPM Analysis: Contemporary Christian. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s December 2018 PPM survey, today focusing on contemporary Christian. See the report here.

December 2018 PPM Analysis:
Contemporary Christian

TALKERS | January 14, 2019

By Mike Kinosian
Managing Editor
TALKERS

LOS ANGELES — Each month, we analyze PPM ratings performance of four different formats – three in the spoken-word arena and one music-intensive genre.

Having already posted December 2018 PPM overviews last week of all-news (Wednesday, 1/9); sports talk (Thursday, 1/10); and public radio news/talk (Friday, 1/11), we unveil our first-ever look at contemporary Christian.

As is the case with the three aforementioned spoken-word formats, the following scoreboards are comprised of contemporary Christian stations that rank in the top 20 in any of the 48 PPM-markets (6+, December 2018).

Given that Nielsen Audio only releases audience estimates for stations that subscribe to its services, ratings information in this exclusive analysis is limited to properties that pay that company for its data.

Monday Memo: CES 2019

TALKERS | January 14, 2019

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

LAS VEGAS — This week, Sin City recovers from its biggest crowd of the year, last week’s massive, mind-boggling Consumer Electronics Show.

OOPS. Don’t quote me. 180,000 of us attending were under strict instructions NOT to call it the “Consumer Electronics Show.” Call it “CES,” we were asked by the Consumer Technology Association, formerly known as “The Consumer Electronics Association.” Why so sensitive about the re-branding?

#250 Working on Ways to Overcome Obstacles in Maximizing Direct Response Spot Success.

TALKERS | January 11, 2019

#250 Working on Ways to Overcome Obstacles in Maximizing Direct Response Spot Success. It is no secret that a significant percentage of talk radio advertising consists of direct response advertising and the results are tallied by the sponsors – making it even more imperative that the spots get measurable action. Considering the fact that much of the listening is done while driving, it makes it even more of a challenge to get people to make the leap from hearing an 800 phone number and actually placing the call while the thought is top of mind. The firm #250 – America’s Mobile Speed Dial has been making progress in simplifying this process for talk shows, stations and networks across the nation by creating simple word prompted codes and phrases designed to simplify the act of calling while behind the wheel. Now they have taken it one step further addressing another problem. #250 chief marketing officer Dave Robinett tells TALKERS, “Accomplishing the task of making your advertiser’s phone ring is tough enough. But there are many points of ‘breakage’ after that. Phone reps can be poorly trained or rude. Client phone systems or call centers might have technical issues. Long hold times might encourage abandonment. The #250 platform recently solved a major-yet-unrealized problem for a Premiere Networks advertiser. A timeshare exit company’s ad was working well – so well that when the spot ran and calls came pouring in, they exceeded the 15 available call center agents. The ‘overflow’ callers then got a busy signal. Since these callers came in via dialing #250, for the first time ever, this advertiser has visibility to how many calls they were blocking. It was also revealed that only one in 15 of these blocked callers bothered to attempt to call the advertiser later that day or next day. This was clearly significant lost revenue – that the advertiser never knew they were missing – since they never before had visibility to calls they never received!” Robinett continues, “But #250 was able to implement a call saver feature to detect the busy signal, take back the call, and prompt the caller to leave their name and number for a callback. This voice message was set up to be emailed immediately to a designated sales manager back at the advertiser. The advertiser was extremely pleased with the proactive discovery of a way to increase revenue by the Premiere sales executive, John Buckley. Loyalty established. Media spend secured.” Dave Robinett will be one of 55 industry leaders speaking at the forthcoming convention Talkers 2019: Telling the Story in NYC on Friday, June 7. He can be reached at 816-559-0620.

Friday, January 11, 2019

TALKERS | January 11, 2019

New Afternoon Show to Launch at KIRO-FM, Seattle; Jason Rantz to PM Drive at Sister KTTH-AM. Talent changes take effect at Bonneville’s Seattle talk stations on Monday (1/14). The new “Candy, Mike and Todd” Show launches with hosts Candy Harper, Mike Lewis, and Todd Herman. Heather Bosch handles news updates twice hourly for the 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm show. Program director Ryan Maguire says, “We’ve put together what we feel is a winning team. Candy, Mike, and Todd are a fun, entertaining and intelligent trio. They will be a perfect complement to the news, traffic, and weather elements that ‘KIRO Radio’ listeners expect every weekday afternoon.” Candy Harper most recently served as the afternoon producer on KIRO-FM. Mike Lewis has worked at KIRO-FM as a reporter and fill-in host since 2016, and Todd Herman moves over from sister conservative news/talk KTTH where he’s been the afternoon drive personality. As a result of that move, Bonneville shifts KTTH morning show host Jason Rantz to the afternoon drive daypart and brings Saul Spady aboard to host the morning drive program. Spady is described as “very active in local politics” and an accomplished businessman. Candy Harper says of the new KIRO-FM show, “Mike, Todd, and I are three opinionated friends who may disagree on almost everything but love to talk about why. Turns out, people are quite capable of disagreeing on issues and still being decent human beings. This show is going to be unique.” About joining KTTH-AM for mornings, Spady comments, “I’m excited for this opportunity to create a new type of conservative talk radio show in mornings that gives a 21st century perspective both locally and nationally. I hope to connect with listeners both new and old, transplant and local alike in our quest to create a rational opposition to the rudderless leadership we have in Seattle and Olympia.”

PPM Analysis: Public Radio News/Talk. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s December 2018 PPM survey, today focusing on public radio news/talk. There’s wasn’t great movement up or down for public radio news/talk stations in PPM markets from November to December – 48% were up (weekly 6+ AQH share) and 41% were down. Year-over-year, 39% of those stations were up with 55% of them losing audience share. Three public radio news/talk stations ranked #1 in their markets in December – KQED, San Franciscio; WAMU, Washington; and KPBS, San Diego – while four other stations ranked #2 in their respective markets. Also in this report is a chart comparing the performances of all-news, sports talk, and public radio news/talk. See the whole story here.

Timeless Wisdom from Radio Legends. Consultant Bill McMahon, principal of The Authentic Personality, offers some advice to TALKERS magazine readers that he picked up a few years back that he says bears constant reinforcement:

TalenTrak was an annual event in Chicago created by The Conclave to inspire and educate radio personalities. The year I attended, it delivered big-time on both accounts.

Radio legends Larry Lujack and Jonathon Brandmeier were the featured speakers. They put on quite a show. Their passion for radio and its possibilities lifted the conference room at Columbia College. Their performance demonstrated radio’s unique ability to create intimate human relationships. The stories they told about their lives in radio — the ups and downs, the successes and failures — really resonated with the audience. Lujack and Brandmeier established a real connection and emotional bond with everyone in that room. It was great radio.

Here are some nuggets of wisdom for aspiring radio personalities from the success stories of Uncle Lar and Johnny B:

Don’t copy anyone. Be yourself and you’ll be distinctive. There is nobody exactly like you. Lujack said it this way. “One of my advantages was not being able to hear big-city radio growing up in Caldwell, Idaho. I never copied anybody because I didn’t have anyone to copy.” Here’s Brandmeier’s perspective: “I don’t know what’s going on in radio. I don’t listen to other shows. In my head, I’m the only guy on the radio.”

Constantly expand what you know. If you don’t know more than your listeners, you can’t add much to their lives. Lujack “read newspapers and magazines for seven hours a day” to expand his knowledge. Brandmeier said, “I read everything. You gotta to be aware of the world around you. The more you read the more you have to react to. It’s like filling a cooler with meat. I just keep filling it.”

Don’t present anything on the radio that you don’t really care about. If it doesn’t ring your emotional bell, if it’s not interesting, meaningful, or fun to you, forget it. It won’t matter to your listeners if it doesn’t matter to you. Brandmeier put it this way, “if you’re not curious about it or care about it, don’t talk about it. The audience knows.”

Find the right boss — someone who totally believes in you. Don’t go to work for people who want to change you and what you do. They’ll make your life miserable, destroy your confidence, and then fire you. Lujack and Brandmeier’s careers took off when they found PDs who believed in them. Lujack was fired repeatedly by bosses who didn’t understand or appreciate his often “cynical, sarcastic, negative attitude” on the radio and insisted he change. He refused because, “it was easier to be me than somebody I was not. I believed me would work.” It sure did once he found Pat O’Day at KJR in Seattle. “He was the first PD who encouraged me to be me.” Brandmeier found Don Benson who heard him breaking format doing a midday music show in Milwaukee. Brandmeier recalled, “I would start talking to listeners on the radio the minute the programmers left the building for lunch. I figured they wouldn’t hear me while they were eating.” Benson heard him. He called Brandmeier with an offer that changed his life. “There’s a voice inside you that wants to get out. How would you like to let that voice out on a morning show in Phoenix?” Brandmeier took the job at KZZP. The “voice” Benson heard attracted a few listeners. “They let me do whatever I wanted”, remembered Brandmeier, “and the ratings tripled.”

TALKERS News Notes. As reported by Chicago media writer Robert Feder, the partnering of Chicago radio personality Kathy Hart with Frank Fontana on Tribune Broadcasting’s news/talk WGN-AM continues with a regular, Wednesday evening show. Hart, formerly the morning drive co-host on hot AC WTMX, has been sitting in with Fontana on his weekend show since October and now the two will have a regular, weeknight program…..According to a report by Maria Sciullo in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Laurel Highland Total Communications Inc. has flipped WAVL, Apollo, Pennsylvania (northeast of Pittsburgh) from news/talk as “Talk PA” to variety hits. It has changed the call letters to WXJX. The reason for the switch is reportedly due to the disappearance of Laura Ingraham’s daily live radio show and the re-configuration of Michael Savage’s program, combined with the loss of exclusivity for the “Quinn & Rose” show hosted by Jim Quinn and Rose Somma Tennent (pictured here). Their show is also heard on iHeartMedia’s sports talk WBGG, Pittsburgh. Station executive David Waugaman states, “Then we found out Laura Ingraham would be quitting radio and staying with TV [and a podcast]. And finally, finding that Michael Savage was dropping away from radio as well. So without great replacements, we felt it was best to go with a music format and we have had great success with our ‘Jack’ programming at our radio station down in Morgantown.”

Beasley and UNLV Hackathon Initiative Winners. Pictured above are the winners of Beasley Media Group’s Media Innovation Hackathon initiative at CES 2019. Done in collaboration with the University of Nevada Las Vegas, the initiative was launched in October 2018 with the goal of generating potential commercial products and services utilizing existing media technology, data, and infrastructure, as well as to conceptualize the kinds of transformative, disruptive technologies that will become mainstream in the next 20 years. The first-place team (pictured above) won $5,000 for its work using AM/FM frequencies to charge devices. The second- and third-place teams won $2,500 and $1,000, respectively. Pictured are (from l-r): Bruce Beasley, UNLV’s Dr. Mary Croughan, Consumer Technology Association senior director of Innovation & Trends Ben Arnold, Beasley’s Buzz Knight, UNLV students Erick Serrano and Yuria Mann, UNLV’s Zach Miles, UNLV provost Diane Chase, and Brian Beasley.

Celebrating ‘The Sopranos.’ Pictured above is “The Sopranos” actor Steve Schirripa (center), who played Bobby Baccalieri on the iconic HBO series. He stopped by the WOR, New York studios yesterday (1/10) to talk about the 20^thanniversary of the premiere of the show with morning drive team Len Berman (left) and Michael Riedel (right).

Trump Border Wall Address Top News/Talk Story for Week of January 7-11. Tuesday evening’s Oval Office address by President Trump about the border wall issue was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers Ten^TM. At #2 this week was the ongoing federal government shutdown. Coming at #3 was the Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents, followed by the potential 2020 presidential candidates at #4. The Talkers Ten^TMis 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.

Multi-Platform Performer Kate Delaney Is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast. She is a woman of many platforms and talents who casts a wide net. Kate Delaney is an Emmy Award-winning journalist, top business and motivational speaker, best-selling author, and a weekend host for the NBC Sports Radio Network. In addition, she hosts a long-running news/talk show on the Genesis Communications Network called “America Tonight” and a weekly online feature with Forbes Books showcasing movers and shakers in the business world. Her most recent book published by Forbes is titled, Deal Your Own Destiny: Increase Your Odds, Win Big and Become Extraordinary. Delaney is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Harrison and Delaney discuss sports, politics, business, and breaking the glass ceiling. Harrison says, “More people in the talk media industry should know about this hard-working renaissance woman and we are so pleased to launch this podcast’s fifth year by spotlighting her views and accomplishments.” 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 daily newsletter and every page on Talkers.com.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. At Go Media’s alternative KQGO, Minneapolis “GO 96.3,” evening personality Jordan Alamat gets to take the “assistant” off his music director title. In a statement, station program director Christy Taylor says, “Jordan has been a key member of Go 96.3’s programming since before I returned. His knowledge of music as a fan and a musician gives him a passion I’ve rarely seen in a music director. With great pride ‘GO Radio’ is happy to announce that Jordan Alamat has been officially elevated to music director of ‘GO 96.3.’ Along with his music director duties he will continue to host the most interactive night show in the cities.”…..Sarkes Tarzian’s Fort Wayne, Indiana alternative outlet gets another signal to expand its presence in the region. The company bought WGBJ-FM, Auburn, Indiana last year and now adds its class A 102.3 FM signal to the “ALT 99.5” format airing on WAJI-HD2, Fort Wayne. Sarkes Tarzian Fort Wayne VP and market manager Lee Tobin comments, “This expands the reach of Fort Wayne’s only alternative station beyond Allen County into the surrounding counties of northeast Indiana.”…..The syndicated “Tino Cochino Radio” show – distributed by YEA Networks – adds two new stations to its affiliate roster. KORQ, Abilene, Texas and KHQT, Las Cruces, New Mexico pick up the program. It’s currently heard on almost 40 stations nationwide.

December 2018 PPM Analysis:
Public Radio News/Talk

TALKERS | January 11, 2019

By Mike Kinosian
Managing Editor
TALKERS

LOS ANGELES — Our four-part series of extensive overviews of the December 2018 ratings period continues with a focus on stations under the public radio news/talk umbrella.

Breakouts shown here consist of data from public radio news/talk facilities that rank in the top 20 (6+) in any PPM-market during the December 2018 sweep (November 8 – December 5).

In addition to that particular ratings caveat, Nielsen Audio only releases audience estimates for stations that subscribe to its services. Thus, ratings stats in this analysis are limited to facilities paying that company for its information.

December 2018 PPM Analysis:
Sports Talk

TALKERS | January 10, 2019

By Mike Kinosian
Managing Editor
TALKERS

LOS ANGELES — Our four-part series of detailed December 2018 PPM overviews continues with a look at sports talk; all-news was in the spotlight yesterday (Wednesday, 1/9).

The following scoreboards are comprised of sports talk facilities that rank in the top 20 in any of the 48 PPM-markets (6+, December 2018).

Given that Nielsen Audio only releases audience estimates for stations that subscribe to its services, ratings information in this exclusive analysis are limited to properties that pay that company for its data.

Thursday, January 10, 2018

TALKERS | January 10, 2019

iHeartMedia’s New WONK-FM in DC to Deliver ‘Inside-the-Beltway’ News and Talk. The new station will air on WWDC-HD2 (101.1) and W284CQ at 104.7 FM and is branded “WONK-FM, Smart People. News.” iHeartMedia says the launch of the new station comes after its recent on-air and online celebration of “National WONK Day” – a day created for listeners that have a keen interest in inside-the-Beltway news – and WONK-FM will be “a news and talk station serving thought leaders, influencers, and stakeholders inside the Washington, DC beltway.” The press release states, “The new station will broadcast renowned anchors Stacy Lyn and Alexandra Lane weekdays from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm and will feature the latest breaking news and headlines from Washington, DC. In addition, WONK-FM will air instant reactions from opinion leaders and on-air talk personalities originating from iHeartMedia’s 130-plus news and talk stations throughout the United States.” iHeartMedia region president Michael Preacher comments, “WONKs are the behind-the-scenes people in DC who are innovators, experts, and are passionate about their work. DC’s WONKs are the unsung heroes who solve the world’s most difficult problems and they deserve to have a dedicated platform.” Programming the new station is current WRKO, Boston programmer Michael Czarnecki, who will work in Washington. He adds, “With the accelerated pace of today’s news cycle, we look forward to providing a contemporary approach to delivering a ‘wonk-centric’ and uniquely DC view of the news. I’m thrilled to be joining the iHeartMedia team in Washington DC as part of Washington’s WONK-FM.” You can see a video the company made to promote the station and their targeting of “wonks” here.

PPM Analysis: Sports Talk. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s December 2018 PPM survey, today focusing on sports talk. The drop off in cume from end of the 2018 baseball season affected some sports talk outlets negatively as 61% of those stations in PPM markets saw their weekly, 6+ AQH share diminish from the November to the December surveys. However, year-over-year, 62% of sports talk stations realized improved 6+ numbers. In the market rank category, RadiOhio’s WBNS-FM, Columbus takes the blue ribbon, ranking #3 in the market with a 7.3 share. Entercom’s WIP-FM, Philadelphia ranked #4 in December with a 6.3 share; and three stations – Beasley’s WBZ-FM, Boston; Entercom’s WFAN-AM/FM (Long Island); and Entercom’s KDKA-FM, Pittsburgh – all ranked #5 in their respective markets. See Mike Kinosian’s entire report here.

Emmis Communications Releases Fiscal Q3 Numbers; Pro Forma Revenue Up 5%. The third fiscal quarter for Emmis Communications Corporation ended November 30, 2018. The company notes that, due to the recent sale of five stations (KPWR, Los Angeles in August 2017 and four radio stations in St. Louis on April 30, 2018), its reported results are not comparable year over year. Emmis’ radio net revenue for fiscal Q3 was $28.7 million, down from $34 million in the prior year. However, pro forma for all radio station sales, revenue “was up 5% in markets that were up 2%.” Emmis chairman and CEO Jeff Smulyan comments, “With this quarter’s strong performance, Emmis is now outperforming its markets through the first nine months of this fiscal year – quite an achievement. Political revenues certainly helped, but we also saw growth in our core advertising categories, all of which contributed to Emmis having its strongest quarter in four years. New York and Indianapolis both outperformed their markets and continue to produce strong ratings, which should help sustain Emmis’ revenue growth. That certainly appears to be the case in January and February, where both months are pacing up mid-to-high single digits.”

2019 New York Festivals Radio Awards Issues Call for Entries. The 37^thNew York Festivals Radio Awards is open for entries. Established in 1982, New York Festivals Radio Awards is an international audio awards competition in which entries are judged on production values, organization, presentation of information, creativity, and use of the medium. New York Festivals enlists jurists from around the world to become members of their world-class Radio Awards Grand Jury. Jurors include some of the world’s most recognizable voices and captivating content producers in the radio industry. Building on last year’s category reorganization, the competition once again added new categories with respect to today’s robust radio industry. New categories for 2019 include: Best Audio Book – Children’s, Best Digital Esports, and Human Rights Documentary. NYF expanded its Podcast categories to include Serialized Podcast, Companion Podcast, and Narrative/ Documentary Podcast. NYF Radio Awards VP and executive director Rose Anderson states, “Listeners everywhere are embracing the expanded audio universe and they are clamoring for authentic storytelling experiences from direct-to-digital podcasts and documentaries, to audiobooks and esports coverage. Our advisory board and industry leaders have been a great help as we continue to recognize innovation and excellence.” The deadline to enter the 2019 Radio Awards competition is March 15, 2019 and you can do that here. Winners will be honored at the annual gala in New York taking place on June 24.

TALKERS News Notes. On Tuesday (1/8), iHeartMedia CEO Bob Pittman appeared on Bloomberg TV’s “Bloomberg Markets” program with Vonnie Quinn and addressed a number of radio business topics, including: iHeart’s exit from Chapter 11, the company being open to partnerships with other media companies, iHeart being ‘under-monetized’ compared to its reach, TSL and return on investment, and more. Watch the segment here…..CRN Digital Talk Radio adds “The Dr. Mitch Show” to its network roster. Dr. Mitchell Ghen hosts an interactive health talk show relying on his 38 years of experience in anti-aging, holistic, and integrative medicine to answer listeners’ health-related questions…..“Amazing Race” winner, “Big Brother” contestant, and reality star Jessica Graf launches a new podcast called, “Now What?” via PodcastOne. Graf says, “Having a podcast for me is like having a very public diary! And I’m really excited about that! Up until now, I’ve really focused on staying active on Instagram, but there’s so much that goes on in life that I feel like Instagram doesn’t always provide the opportunity to share. So now I have this brand-new podcast platform to be brutally honest on!”…..Reality TV stars Brandi Redmond and Stephanie Hollman of Bravo’s “Real Housewives of Dallas” are jumping into the podcast world via YEA Networks. The program, “Weekly Dose of B.S.,” is an “anything-goes, unedited, uncensored weekly podcast.”…..Cadence13 partners with “Comments by Celebs” founders Emma Diamond and Julie Kramer to produce a podcast of the same name. The friends and recent Syracuse University grads took advantage of Instagram’s 2017 algorithm changes that make it easier to see comments by verified accounts across the platform to create the @CommentsbyCelebs account that captures the “cheeky and witty comments” celebrities post on one another’s posts. Since its inception, @CommentsbyCelebs has amassed a following of almost one million people and worldwide recognition, with media and celebrity followers including: Gwyneth Paltrow, Katie Couric, John Mayer, Kelly Ripa, and Chrissy Teigen.…..WBUR, Boston announces the public media stations selected to participate in BizLab’s initiative to design and conduct revenue experiments for public radio in the digital age. The project is funded with $750,000 from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and $250,000 from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. Each participating station will work with WBUR’s BizLab for six months, “using lean, user-centered design methodologies to identify and test new sources of revenue for that station. By engaging audiences and quickly testing concepts in-market, each station will generate quantitative results to inform their near-term strategic investments. Collaborating stations will share results and best practices with each other and the broader public radio system.” The selected stations are: WAMU, Washington D.C.; Louisville Public Media (WFPL, WFPK, WUOL); Capital Public Radio, Sacramento; WLRN-FM, Miami; Vermont Public Radio; and WDET-FM, Detroit…..Yesterday (1/9), Genesis Communications Network-syndicated talk show host Dr. Daliah Wachs celebrated her 10^thanniversary as a talk radio show host…..Appearing on Lou Simon’s “The Diner” program on SiriusXM’s “Volume” channel (talk programming dedicated to music and the music business) recently were legendary radio personalities John Records Landecker, Shotgun Tom Kelly, and Joey Reynolds, as well as “Radio’s Best Friend” Art Vuolo. The three jocks were together for the Radio Dream Lunch in Los Angeles and, according to Vuolo, the show was so much fun that Simon is adding guests to his program. He’s already interviewed Paul Peterson of “Donna Reed Show” fame and singer/songwriter Jackie DeShannon. You can see video of the show here. Pictured below are Landecker (left) and Kelly (right) in the studio.

Trump’s Border Wall Address, Government Shutdown, Trump-Russia Investigation, 2020 Presidential Race, Ed Buck Case, Bezos Divorce, Showtime’s Roger Ailes Series, and NFL Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/9). Tuesday night’s presidential address on the U.S.-Mexico border wall issue and President Trump’s battle against Democrats on the matter; the ongoing government shutdown; the investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents; possible 2020 presidential candidates including Elizabeth Warren, Michelle Obama, and Kamala Harris; the case of Democratic donor Ed Buck and the recent deaths of men at his California home; Amazon chief Jeff Bezos and wife divorce amidst speculation about infidelity; the legal battles surrounding the Showtime series about late FOX News Channel chief Roger Ailes; and the NFL playoffs 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. The nominees for the 2019 iHeartRadio Music Awards presented by iHeartMedia and Fox Broadcasting Company on Thursday, March 14 live from Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles have been announced. This is the sixth year of the iHeartRadio Music Awards and the 2019 telecast will feature live performances from today’s star performers, artist collaborations, celebrity guest appearances, and live award presentations in multiple categories. iHeartMedia Entertainment Enterprises president John Sykes says, “It’s no secret why this year’s iHeartRadio Music Awards nominees are a Who’s Who of music. These are the artists and the songs iHeartRadio listeners couldn’t get enough of this past year. It’s going to be an unforgettable show.” See the whole list here…..San Diego radio personality Chris Cantore is officially named morning drive host on Tegna Inc’s adult hits KFMB-FM “100.7 San Diego.” Cantore – who’s served with KPRI, KBZT, and XTRA-FM in the market – has been filling in hosting the morning show for several months. KFMB-FM program director Mike V. Vasquez says, “Cantore has that cool, laid-back vibe that is so easy to connect with. He’s not only entertaining, but he’s an authentic guy who cares about our community. He epitomizes all things San Diego and is an ideal ambassador for our station. I’m thrilled to have him joining our ‘100.7 San Diego’ family!”…..iHeartMedia Sacramento announces that Paul Robins is the new afternoon drive host on KBEB “92.5 The Breeze, Sacramento’s #1 For Relaxing Favorites at Work,” effective Friday, February 1. Robins also heads up William Jessup University’s Digital Communication and Design Bachelor of Arts degree program. He’ll host his show from the university’s studio while giving his students the opportunity to earn hands-on training with broadcast and digital content for the station. During his career, Robins has worked in Detroit, Dallas and Sacramento, including for 20 years as half of “The Paul and Phil Show” on KGBY “Y92.”…..Cumulus Media’s urban contemporary WLXC, Columbia, South Carolina “KISS 10-3.1” adds the Westwood One-syndicated “Rick and Sasha” program for morning drive. WWO just the launched the program starring Rick Party and Sasha the Diva into national syndication…..TALKERS magazine sends condolences to the family and friends of programmer pro Harve Alan, who passed away on January 6. During his career he’s served with CBS RADIO, iHeartMedia, ABC Radio Networks, NextMedia, and Metro Networks. He also operated his own consulting firm.

Wednesday, January 9, 2019

TALKERS | January 9, 2019

PPM Analysis: All-News. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the performances of stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s December 2018 PPM survey, today focusing on the all-news format. The 6+ numbers for all-news formatted radio stations have been fairly steady over the past year. Increases or decreases in those 6+ weekly AQH share numbers have been pretty small, for the most part. Of the seven all-news stations that saw decreases from the November survey to the December survey, all were by .3 shares or less. When it comes to market rank, the majority of all-news stations rank in the top 10 in their respective markets with three – Entercom’s WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM, Chicago; Hubbard’s WTOP-FM, Washington; and Entercom’s WWJ, Detroit – all ranking #2. See Kinosian’s entire report here.

Mike Kasper Joins KBOI, Boise Morning Show. Boise news/talk outlet KBOI announces it has hired market radio pro Mike Kasper to join the morning show, assuming the role that opened with the retirement of Paul J Schneider. Kasper will work with Chris Walton on the “Kasper and Chris” show, effective January 14. Kasper previously served in the market hosting mornings on the old KFXD “KF-95” and several other Boise music stations. Kasper says, “I finally get the chance to work in a news/talk format where, for the first time in my career, I’ll be able to talk with listeners to discuss current events, news, sports, politics and issues that affect our state and the Treasure Valley.” Station general manager Don Morin says, “KBOI was overwhelmed with the number of qualified applicants and talent wanting to be part of our team. Through hundreds of applications, Mike’s presence in the Treasure Valley is part of what made him one of the best candidates for the position. I look forward to 670 KBOI moving into a new era.”

Westwood One: In-Car Display Ads Improve Recall and Effectiveness. From a study by MARU/Vision Critical, commissioned by Westwood One, comes data that indicates the combination of the in-car visual with the over-the-air radio ad “generates a major improvement in advertising recall and impact.” The study examined consumers with vehicles that have next generation HD Radio technology and revealed the impact of a retailer’s visual in the in-car display when synced to the advertiser’s radio ad. Some of the findings indicated that the more time consumers spend in the car, the more they pay attention to the visual information. The study determined that heavy AM/FM radio listeners recall seeing visual information from in-car display screens and two-thirds of heavy AM/FM radio listeners have frequently or occasionally seen the advertiser name or logo on their connected vehicle’s screens. Moreover, those who recall the retailer’s in-car visuals were more likely to visit the stores. In fact, 84% of those who recalled seeing the in-car visual synced to the radio ad had visited or planned to visit the store. See more in the Westwood One blog post here.

Chris Duncan Takes Leave from WXOS-FM, St. Louis. Sports talk host Chris Duncan is taking a permanent leave from Hubbard Radio’s WXOS-FM, St. Louis to focus on his battle against brain cancer. The former St. Louis Cardinals outfielder has been hosting the midday program “The Turn” with co-host Anthony Stalter. The station tweeted out the message: “Dunc will be taking a permanent leave from ‘101 ESPN’ to continue his fight against cancer and focus on health. If you pray, please keep him in your prayers. If you don’t, keep him in your thoughts. He is our brother and we miss him deeply.” Duncan first joined the station in 2011. He was diagnosed with cancer about six years ago.

ESPN: Podcast Downloads Increased 43% in 2018. Sports content giant ESPN announces that downloads of its podcasts increased 43% in 2018 as its podcast business saw 411 million downloads. The data comes from Blubrry, which says its measurement system is certified by the Interactive Advertising Bureau. The most downloaded show was “The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz,” totaling more than 91 million downloads. “First Take,” the leading television show podcast, was next with more than 31 million downloads. ESPN says that among its original podcasts, “538: Politics” enjoyed another strong year with more than 26 million downloads, followed by “Fantasy Focus Football” with more than 21 million.

SiriusXM Total Paid Subscribers Hits 34 Million. Satellite radio operator SiriusXM will reveal its fourth quarter 2018 financial data later this month (1/30) but announces today that it added 1.4 million self-pay subscribers in 2018 to bring its total of paid subscribers to 34 million. The company says that beat its 2018 guidance by about 40%. SiriusXM issued 2019 subscriber and financial guidance in which it expects to add another 1 million self-pay net additions and projects total revenue of $6.1 billion. SiriusXM CEO Jim Meyer states, “I’m proud to report that 2018 was not only another year of operational excellence at SiriusXM, with record high subscribers, revenue, and adjusted EBITDA. Last year also saw SiriusXM achieve important milestones, like the introduction of 360L and significant improvements in our smartphone apps and IP distribution on connected devices. We attained a record 40% adjusted EBITDA margin in the third quarter, saw our efforts in connected vehicle services bear fruit and, of course, we were extremely pleased to reach an agreement to acquire Pandora Media.” The company expects to close on the Pandora deal shortly after Pandora’s stockholder meeting later this month.

Talking About the Future of In-Vehicle Infotainment. Pictured above at CES 2019 in Las Vegas is Beasley Media Group chief executive officer Caroline Beasley and her fellow panelists who talked about “The Future of In-Vehicle Infotainment” that addressed the future of in-vehicle entertainment, radio’s place in the connected car, and data attribution. From l-r are: NAB EVP of strategy planning and special projects Steve Newberry; BBC senior distribution manager Ben Rosenberg; Beasley; Xperi SVP of broadcast radio Joe D’Angelo; and author, futurist and founder of Ellis and Associates, John Ellis.

Community Broadcasters Sells Twin Tiers Cluster to Seven Mountains Media. The Twin Tiers region of New York includes the towns of Elmira and Olean, to which the seven stations in this deal are licensed. Seven Mountains Media is agreeing to buy CHR WNKI-FM, rock WNGZ-FM, country WPGI-FM, news/talk WWLZ-AM and classic country WRCE-AM in Elmira and country WPIG-FM and CHR WHDL-AM/W296DB in Olean from Community Broadcasters for a price yet to be announced. The deal puts the Kristin Cantrell-led Seven Mountains at the 38-station mark.

Comrex Unveils New EarShot IFB. The new EarShot IFB is a VoIP-based auto coupler for IFB and listen lines from Comrex. It is designed to help TV stations reduce costs and provide more flexibility for remote IFB feeds. EarShot IFB provides telephone-based, live studio program and IFB audio to field-based remote broadcasts that serves up to 30 users who can listen to program or IFB feeds by calling into EarShot IFB with a standard telephone. For higher fidelity, the Comrex FieldTap smartphone app can be used to pull audio in studio quality. FieldTap uses the Opus audio decoder to deliver studio quality audio, and is available to download for free on iOS and Android.

President Trump’s Border Wall Speech, Government Shutdown, Trump-Russia Investigation/Rosenstein’s Future, U.S.-China Trade War, NYC Health Care Guarantee, Fate of Sears, Clemson Beats Alabama for NCAA Football Title, and NFL Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/8). Tuesday evening’s border wall speech by President Trump and the Democrats’ response; the state of the federal government shutdown; the investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents and the related status of Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein; the trade negotiations between the U.S. and China; NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio guarantees health care for all; Sears chairman Eddie Lampert’s attempt to save the retailer; Clemson beats Alabama in NCAA title game; and the NFL Playoffs were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Beasley Brings Brian Ives Aboard Centralized Digital Content Team. Content pro Brian Ives was most recently editor-in-chief with Townsquare Media’s Loudwire. Now, he’s joining Beasley Media Group to serve as managing editor of its centralized digital content team. In this new position, Ives will be responsible for leading the team that will be supplying its owner-operated and social media sites with breaking news and format-specific content in an effort to drive traffic and audience engagement. Beasley chief digital content officer Lori Burgess says, “Brian’s journalistic background and passionate knowledge about artists and music genres made him perfectly poised to lead our centralized digital content team with the intent to create compelling, multi-platform content. His background in video, storytelling and interviewing and creating content on multiple platforms will further elevate Beasley’s efforts in the digital space.”

More Music Radio News and Career Moves. Programming pro Rob Miller is named senior vice president of programming for iHeartMedia’s South Florida region. He’s also being elevated to executive vice president of hot AC programming and strategy for iHeartMedia national programming group. He’ll be responsible for the day-to-day operations in the Miami and Fort Lauderdale markets. He takes this new role after having served as program director for WKTU, New York for the past 12 years……….The new airstaff at iHeartMedia’s adult contemporary WISX, Philadelphia “106.1 The Breeze” is named. Mornings will feature former WOGL “Breakfast Club” co-host Valerie Knight. She’s followed by former “Power 99” operations manager Helen Little in middays and former WBEB afternoon personality Dan Blackman in PM drive. Evenings are being hosted by Premiere Networks’ Delilah. The station flipped to adult contemporary back in November…..In the Twin Cities, iHeartMedia’s CHR KDWB extends its deal with morning show personality Falen for another three years. She is part of the “Dave Ryan in the Morning Show” with Ryan and co-host Steve-O. KDWB program director Rich Davis says, “I’ll never forget calling and offering the job to Falen late one night in early 2012. Since then she has connected with the Twin Cities KDWB audience in ways I could’ve only wished for and solidified herself as a true morning talent. I can’t wait to see what happens next as she continues her career on the ‘Dave Ryan in the Morning Show’ on KDWB.”…..Townsquare Media names Dave Fields afternoon drive host for country WYRK, Buffalo. He moves to that position from sister WMSX where he did mornings and takes over for brand manager Chris Crowley who recently added programming duties for the re-branded WMSX “96.1 The Breeze.”……Cumulus Media adds the Westwood One-syndicated “The Bert Show” to the morning daypart at CHR WBHT, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania…..iHeartMedia announces several new affiliate stations add the syndicated “Rover’s Morning Glory” program, including WNCD, Youngstown, Ohio “93.3 The Wolf”; WFXN, Mansfield, Ohio “102.3 The Fox”; and WZRX, Lima, Ohio. Host Shane “Rover” French says, “We are thrilled to increase the size of our radio network. We look forward to getting to know fans in these new markets and are confident that ‘Rover’s Morning Glory’ will become their #1 choice for morning radio.” The WMMS, Cleveland-based show is now heard on 15 affiliate stations.

December 2018 PPM Analysis: All-News

TALKERS | January 9, 2019

By Mike Kinosian
Managing Editor
TALKERS

LOS ANGELES — An analysis of all-news properties begins our extensive four-part series of December 2018 ratings recaps.

The following scoreboards reflect data from all-news stations that appear in the top 20 (6+) in December 2018, a ratings period that covered November 8 – December 5.

All but three stations listed here are owned by Entercom. The exceptions are iHeartMedia’s WBZ-AM, Boston (also listed in Providence); WTOP, Washington, DC (Hubbard); and KOMO, Seattle (Sinclair Broadcast Group).

Nielsen Audio only releases audience estimates for facilities that subscribe to its services. As a result, ratings stats in this exclusive overview are limited to stations paying that company for its data.

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

TALKERS | January 8, 2019

iHeartMedia Reorganization Plan Awaits Confirmation. The Modified Fifth Amended Joint Chapter 11 Plan of Reorganization for iHeartMedia is awaiting confirmation by United States Bankruptcy Court Judge Marvin Isgur. Yesterday’s filing of the confirmed plan will allow iHeartMedia to erase $10.3 billion in debt off its books, leaving it with $5.75 billion in debt once Judge Isgur has signed the order. Last month, the court approved iHeartMedia’s separation from Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings as part of the reorganization plan. Yesterday’s filing will permit iHeartMedia to begin to implement the plan without seeking authorization from the court. As is usual in bankruptcy cases, once the plan is confirmed by the court, most other claims against the debtor are discharged. In this case, the judge rules that certain liabilities the company is required to honor after the effective date – called a Cure Claim – and that includes the BMI license agreements, an almost $600,000 payment to SoundExchange LLC, and its Framework Digital Distribution Agreement with Sony Music Entertainment. Additionally, the new iHeartMedia must honor all SAG-AFTRA contracts and must assume all contractual agreements with the Denver Broncos. Once signed, iHeartMedia will be in a period between Confirmation and the Effective Date. There are several hearing dates scheduled and they are: January 10 to consider all confirmation issues other than those scheduled to be heard on January 17, and January 22; January 17 to consider all issues concerning the CCOH separation settlement, other than those issues scheduled to be heard on January 22, and any issues continued from the January 10, hearing; January 22 to consider all remaining issues concerning consideration of the class action settlement related to the CCOH Separation Settlement and the GAMCO Motion; and January 23 to consider all remaining confirmation issues.

‘Our American Stories’ Surpasses 160-Affiliate Mark. The nationally syndicated “Our American Stories” program adds a number of new affiliate stations and now has 163 total affiliates. The program is hosted by Lee Habeeb who is also president of program producer American Private Radio. He says, “Stations told us they wanted a radio program that wasn’t always about politics, to give listeners a break from the news cycle. More importantly they love the topics we share every night and we take great pride in putting stories together that touch our listeners’ hearts and minds. People walk away feeling better when they listen to ‘Our American Stories.’” The program is described as “a two-hour, daily radio magazine program that showcases Americans from various industries, including sports heroes, musicians, film performers, political or cultural icons, business leaders, military heroes and more.” TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison is extremely fond of this program stating, “I fully expect ‘Our American Stories’ to be the surprise breakout program of 2019. It is the classiest, best-researched, meticulously produced, dependable piece of quality content to come down the pike in years. It is conservative news/talk’s knock out answer to public radio and will become an institutional part of the genre for years to come.”

Wayne Allyn Root: I ‘Got the Ball Rolling’ on Trump’s Wall Option. Las Vegas-based, nationally syndicated talk show host Wayne Allyn Root says he first talked about the idea that President Trump can declare a national security emergency and use $25 billion from the Pentagon budget to build a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border. Root points to his November 17 column in the Las Vegas Review-Journal that details, among other things, that the president can declare a “national security emergency” and use military money for the project. Root says, “I shared this column and my idea with my audience on both my Newsmax TV show and USA Radio show in the days before publication. Then I flew to Wyoming as keynote speaker for the Wyoming GOP annual dinner on Friday 11/16/18. I shared my idea with that audience. Result. Two standing ovations. That column was handed directly to President Trump by my great friend Lee Lipton at Mar a Lago on 11/18/18. President Trump has talked about this exact option all week in the media. It’s the hottest topic in the country. My idea started this all… I’m sure it will come up in Tuesday night’s national presidential address.”

Mike Gallagher Films LifeLock Ad on NYC Streets. Nationally syndicated talk radio star Mike Gallagher is pictured above on the streets of New York filming commercials for identity theft prevention firm LifeLock. Gallagher has been voicing spots for LifeLock – as have many talk radio hosts since LifeLock is a big advertiser on talk radio – but not long ago he needed the company’s services. The Salem Radio Network talk host was the victim of a personal security breach when someone accessed his personal information, changed his cellphone number, and tried withdrawing $25,000 from Gallagher’s checking account. He credits LifeLock with alerting him to the compromises and acting to protect his personal assets. He says, “I’ve proudly done their commercials for years. But after seeing for myself how they swing into action, I believe anyone is stupid not to have LifeLock protection.”

Eric Zane Launches Daily Podcast. After being let go by Cumulus Media last week due to the format flip of WBBL, Grand Rapids from sports talk to country music, morning personality Eric Zane tells Mlive.com he’s doing a daily podcast designed to pick up where his radio show left off. He’s offering the show to listeners for free and for a fee with various options, including video. Zane tells MLive he hopes to reach a sizable audience via his 18,000 Twitter followers. He says, “Most people get some content via podcast or streaming content and they’re a different audience. They’re zeroed in because of the programming. They seek it out as opposed to background noise. I won’t ever say radio has no place because it’s still great to get in your car and push a button and there it is. This medium (podcasts), which was laughed at five, 10 years ago, isn’t laughed at anymore because it’s very viable.”

Steve Triplett to Lead Beasley’s Tampa Stations. Sales and management pro Steve Triplett is named vice president and market manager for Beasley Media Group’s Tampa cluster that includes financial talk outlet WHFS-AM and six music radio stations. Triplett has been serving as interim market manager and director of sales for the Tampa operations. He says, “Over the past four years, Beasley Media Group has created something truly special in Tampa. We have a team of the finest media professionals in the industry and it’s an honor to continuing serving them in this new capacity.”

PodcastOne Partners with LadyGang for Podcast Network. “The LadyGang” podcast recently celebrated its 200^thepisode and 40 millionth download. Now, PodcastOne is entering into a deal with the brand for a podcast development, production, and marketing deal to launch The LadyGang Network on PodcastOne. The network will feature a female-driven, all-star lineup of pop culture, reality television, and motherhood trend-setters. PodcastOne says the deal combines its vast resources and reach with The LadyGang’s brand power and curated talent lineup. The inaugural program under this new network will be “Mama Said with Jamie and Jenna,” hosted by Jamie Lynn Sigler and Jenna Parris. Additional programs will be announced soon.

Hogenson Communications to Rep Americans for Tax Reform Campaign. Talk media is the target for Americans for Tax Reform and it has hired Hogenson Communications to represent the organization to talk media for its 12-month campaign. Scott Hogenson states, “We’re proud to have been selected by Americans for Tax Reform as their talk media partner. As America’s preeminent tax policy organization, ATR brings a lot to talk media audiences by breaking down complicated policy issues in a way that everyone can understand.”

KNUS, Denver Hosts Boyles and Tubbs to Broadcast from Vancouver, BC During Fact-Finding Mission. Talk show hosts Peter Boyles and Steffan Tubbs – air personalities on Salem Media Group’s news/talk KNUS, Denver – will broadcast live from Vancouver, British Columbia during their fact-finding mission to the city’s safe injection sites. The Denver City Council passed an ordinance that will create safe or supervised injection sites for users to inject heroin, opioids and cocaine in locations that will employ trained medical personnel. The KNUS remote broadcasts will take place on Friday (1/11).

iHeartMedia Unveils New iHeartRadio Features at CES. The company announces a number of new consumer technology integrations for its digital platform, iHeartRadio. At the 2019 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, iHeartMedia unveiled new integrations including the Honda Dream Drive Platform, the new Bixby from Samsung, Roku devices, and Google’s Android TV and Android Auto. It also launched the fully redesigned iHeartRadio Family app on Amazon Fire Tablet with iOS and Android coming soon.

Border Wall-Government Shutdown, U.S.-Syria Policy, Tlaib Israel Statement, Kim Jong Un-Xi Jinping Meeting, NCAA Football Championship, and NFL Playoffs Action Among Top News-Talk Stories Yesterday (1/7). The battle over funding for the U.S.-Mexico border wall and the related government shutdown; the Trump administration’s military policy in Syria; the controversy over freshman congresswoman Rashida Tlaib’s comments that GOP senators are more loyal to Israel than the U.S.; North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un’s visit with Chinese President Xi Jinping; Monday night’s NCAA football championship game; and the NFL playoffs 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. The nationally syndicated Ty Bentli show is off Cumulus Media’s New York City country outlet WNSH “NASH FM 94.7.” What was originally called “America’s Morning Show” back when Blair Garner was lead host and has twice morphed since then has been the only morning show on the stations since its inception. Now, afternoon drive host Jesse Addy is sitting in hosting mornings as the station teases a new program…..In Los Angeles, “volunteer” air personality Greg Beharrell is named evening host on Cumulus Media’s classic rock 95.5 KLOS…..Afternoon drive host, APD and music director Mark Razz is promoted to program director for Beasley Media Group’s country WXTU, Philadelphia. With this new role, Razz will move from afternoon drive to middays. Beasley Philly market manager Joe Bell comments, “Nobody deserves this opportunity more than Razz. He has been an integral part of 92.5 XTU’s success for years and has demonstrated the leadership, commitment and creativity that you look for in a PD. Plus, he’s an amazing talent, is loved by listeners and respected within the industry.”…..Midday personality Corey O’Brien is named assistant program director and music director at Broadway Media’s alternative KXRK, Salt Lake City “X96.”…..Buffalo market radio pro Joe Chille is named morning drive host at Townsquare Media’s adult contemporary WMSX, Buffalo “96.1 The Breeze.” Chille was a longtime personality at WJYE prior to its becoming WMSX. Most recently, he’d been handling part-time duties at Radio One Buffalo’s oldies WECK-AM…..Beasley Media Group names Sean Varicalli host of the “KICKS Wake up Crew” morning show on country WKXC-FM, Augusta, Georgia. Varicalli was most recently midday jock and APD at Curtis Media Group’s country WQDR, Raleigh…..Alpha Media’s WKXI, Jackson, Mississippi “107.5 Kixie” replaces the Tom Joyner show with the Premiere Networks-syndicated “Steve Harvey Morning Show.”

Monday Memo: Podcast Ads Work

TALKERS | January 7, 2019

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

BLOCK ISLAND, RI — From a recently-published Nielsen study commissioned by Stitcher:

61% of consumers exposed to podcast ads for well-known national brands were more likely to purchase the advertised product.
Podcast advertising generates up to 4.4 times better brand recall than other forms of digital advertising (ad banners, pop-ups, etc.).
More is more: When the study probed national packaged goods brands, it found 43% greater recall of longer customized ads than shorter copy.
The personal touch: Those who heard a host-read ad (for a national soft drink brand in this case) were 118% more likely to buy than those who didn’t hear the ad. I see this as an advantage for radio talent, whose endorsement spots can be powerfully effective.

Monday, January 7, 2019

TALKERS | January 7, 2019

Jeff Poor Show Launches on WVNN, Huntsville. Conservative media figure Jeff Poor begins hosting a daily talk radio program on Cumulus Media’s WVNN, Huntsville “NewsTalk 770AM/92.5FM” today (1/7). Poor serves as the editor of Breitbart News’ media vertical, is a regular contributor to Yellowhammer News, and a political columnist for Lagniappe, Mobile, Alabama’s alternative weekly newspaper. Poor previously reported in Washington, D.C. for The Daily Caller and the Media Research Center. WVNN program director Dale Jackson states, “Jeff Poor is an experienced media personality with a real ability to decipher local and national issues. His experience in media in Washington, D.C. and his Alabama upbringing make him the perfect fit for WVNN. I am thrilled to add Jeff to our already amazing lineup of local and national talkers.” The Jeff Poor show airs from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

Sports Talk Moves in Grand Rapids as Cumulus Media’s WBBL-FM Drops Sports. According to MLive.com, Cumulus Media is flipping sports talk WBBL-FM, Grand Rapids to country in a simulcast with sister WTNR-FM. That means a number of staffers have been let go and the statewide Bill Simonson-hosted program “The Huge Show” is no longer on the 107.3 FM frequency. Fired from WBBL are morning personalities Eric Zane and Ben Glaze as well as program director Marcus Bradman. The MLive piece indicates that “The Huge Show” – currently heard on 12 stations across Michigan – will continue as part of an agreement between Cumulus and Michigan Media Network and will be heard in Grand Rapids on Cumulus’ news/talk WJRW at 3:00 pm, effective today (1/7).

iHeartMedia Study: Radio Is Most-Trusted Medium. According to a study commissioned by iHeartMedia, radio is America’s most-trusted medium and iHeartMedia personalities are more trustworthy and relatable than top TV personalities. iHM states, “The survey found iHeartMedia’s focus on live and local programming and the deep, connection on-air personalities have with listeners has led to iHeartRadio being considered the most trusted name in radio and its on-air personalities being more trusted than leading talk personalities in other media.” The study further found that “84% of respondents (people) said radio understands what is important to them, a number that is over 20% greater than network and cable television and social media. In addition, 8 out of 10 people feel that radio aligns with their core values, which is number one across all media.” iHeartMedia chief marketing officer Gayle Troberman says, “In a time when trust matters most to consumers, trust has become a critical criterium for media investment decisions and these findings are extremely compelling because they spotlight our unique and personal role in people’s lives each and every day. Furthermore, it spotlights why iHeartMedia is a leader in audio and reaches over a quarter billion listeners each month. Our personalities are more than just a voice on the radio, they are a trusted friend who shares common values 24/7 across 850 stations nationwide…and only iHeartMedia can deliver that scale, with the intimacy and authenticity consumers want.”

Monday Memo: Podcast Ads Work. Consultant Holland Cooke writes in today’s Monday Memo that, according to a Nielsen study, ads on podcasts delivered better and longer audience recall. Additionally, listeners who heard ads delivered by show hosts were 118% more likely to buy the product than those who didn’t hear the ad. Stitcher commissioner the study and the company’s chief revenue officer Korri Kolesa notes the power of podcasts “to speak to a generation of consumers who tend to be hard to reach through other digital media platforms.” See the entire Memo here.

Beasley Appoints Lori Burgess Chief Digital Content Officer. Consultant Lori Burgess has been working with Beasley Media Group on integrated marketing strategy since May of 2017. Now the company names her to the newly created position of chief digital content officer. In this new role, she will be responsible for designing and overseeing the digital content strategy for the company. She says, “We are embarking upon an exciting business transformation, one focused on content excellence and proficiency across all media platforms. This expansion will allow our on-air talent to enhance their local market presence, fostering deeper and more engaged relationships with audiences and advertisers alike.” During her career, she has worked with such brands as: The Hollywood Reporter, Prevention Magazine, Conde Nast’s Mademoiselle and House & Garden; Elle Magazine; Seventeen Magazine, and Niche Media.

TALKERS News Notes. The CRN Digital Talk Radio-produced “Sports Lounge with Fred Dryer” program is now airing on Dan Patrick Radio heard on SiriusXM Saturdays at 3:00 pm ET. Dryer – a 13-year NFL pro with the New York Giants and Los Angeles Rams and film & television actor – partners with CRN chief Mike Horn to talk about sports news and the politics of the game…..Los Angeles-based personality Sheena Metal – who has hosted the “Sheena Metal Experience” show on LA Talk Radio for the past 10 years, is hosting a live, audience-interactive radio broadcast from the Hollywood Improv on January 27. Metal says the show will celebrate her 10^thLA Talk Radio anniversary as well as her five years as live event host at the legendary comedy club and will feature “lots of great celebrity guests on stage, a fun red carpet/meet-and-greet after the show and a chance to meet so many of the fantastic people who have made my daily show the media success that it is!”…..A new iHeartRadio original podcast premieres called, “Pratt Cast,” hosted by “The Hills” star Stephanie Pratt. She is one of the infamous “The Hills” stars coming back for the sequel. The podcast gives listeners an all access pass to everything happening on and off of the camera this season…..SAG-AFTRA and New York Public Radio reach a Voluntary Recognition Agreement that adds more than 25 new employees – including reporters for the news site Gothamist – to the union’s longstanding collective bargaining unit. It covers some 175 workers at NYPR.

Border Wall-Government Shutdown, Trump-Russia Investigation, Rashida Tlaib Flap, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez ‘60 Minutes’ Interview, U.S.-Syria Policy, Golden Globe Awards, and NFL Playoff Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The battle over funding the U.S.-Mexico border wall and the federal government shutdown; the investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents; the flap over freshman congresswoman Rashida Tlaib’s comment referring to President Trump as a “motherf*cker”; freshman congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s “60 Minutes” interview; the Trump administration’s Syria policy; Sunday evening’s Golden Globe awards; and the weekend’s NFL action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Charlotte CHR WHQC re-brands, leaving behind the “Channel 96.1” brand and taking up the new “HITS 96.1” name. The air staff at the iHeartMedia outlet remains the same. Station program director A.J. comments, “Charlotte is a very competitive market and these updates align the brand in a way that capitalizes on its current strengths. We’re excited to provide a fresh new experience for our listeners. This is an excellent opportunity for ‘The New HITS 96.1’ to be the home of the biggest hits and stars while allowing our audience to gain access to the greatest music and entertainment events in Charlotte.”…..Westwood One launches a new urban AC morning show into national syndication that stars Rick Party (left)and Sasha the Diva (right). The “Rick and Sasha” show is debuting on 15 stations, including: KMJK-FM,Kansas City; KMEZ-FM, New Orleans; WDLT-FM, Mobile; and more. Rick Party previously served with WHQT, Miami “HOT 105” and Sasha was a personality on WALR, Atlanta “Kiss 104.1.”…..Entercom’s classic rock WCMF, Rochester is celebrating 50 years as a rock station by kicking off its year-long “Rockin’ for 50 Years” celebration. The station will observe this milestone with special programming and promotions throughout the year, including “50th Anniversary Album Side Saturdays” that will highlight the 50-year music history of WCMF. Listeners will also be able to tune-in to “Riffer Madness” to hear iconic guitar riffs in classic rock as their cue to call for the chance to win prizes, including a WCMF 50th Anniversary electric guitar signed by current WCMF air staff. The year-long commemoration will also include anniversary themed merchandise and a new station logo highlighting the history and music of the past 50 years…..Radio One Buffalo, LLC owner and operator Buddy Shula announces that Glenn Topolski is named director of on air for oldies WECK-AM/W275BB in Buffalo. In addition to programming duties, Topolski also hosts the afternoon drive show. Topolski has served in the market at signals including: WTSS-FM, WBEN-AM, WGR-AM, and WWKB-AM. Shula says, “Glenn has helped WECK’s rank into the Nielson top 10 since joining 17 months ago. He has been with us from day one and is a person who lives and breathes radio. Glenn is a leader for the next generation on our industry.”…..Premiere Networks-syndicated personality Bobby Bones is profiled in the January issue of Texas Monthly. The piece delves into his radio journey from Austin to Nashville and his rise to becoming “…the most influential voice in country music today, with the power to turn new artists into breakout stars.”

December 2018 PPM Data – Part Four. December 2018 ratings information has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen Audio’s December 2018 survey period covered November 8 – December 5. 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.

Austin

Spoken-Word Formats – A December decrease of eight-tenths by Emmis news/talk KLBJ-AM “News Radio 590 AM” is twice the size of its November gain of four-tenths (4.5 – 3.7, eighth to ninth, 6+). KLBJ-AM was a combined -.3 in September and October (4.4 – 4.3 – 4.1, 6+).

In a repetitive September 2018 – December 2018 pattern of 2.5 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.4 (6+), Genuine Austin Radio sports talk KTXX climbs from #16 to #15. “The Horn” posted a +.5 in June; was -.9 in July; and +1.0 in September. In seven straight sweeps without a loss, iHeartMedia’s similarly-programmed KVET-AM “1300 AM The Zone – Austin’s Sports Talk” has more than doubled (+.4) its 6+-share (.3 – .3 – .5 – .5 – .5 – .5 – .6 – .7 – .7, 6+) and is stable at #24.

Following three straight months at #1, KUT segues to #2 (8.5 – 8.2, -.3, 6+); the University of Texas at Austin-owned news/talk outlet was a collective +1.5 in September and October (7.1 – 7.9 – 8.6, 6+).

Austin Music Formats – Over the last four ratings periods, Entercom adult contemporary KKMJ has been -1.2 (September); +1.2 (October); -.5 November); and now +1.2 in December (6.2 – 7.4, 6+) as “Majic 95.5” carries on at #3. Its current 7.4 represents the strongest 6+-stat for KKMJ since “Holiday” 2017 (12.4). Urban AC KKMJ-HD3, which hadn’t had a decrease since February and was up a collective three-tenths in that stretch (1.2- 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.5, 6+), is off one-tenth and exits the top twenty (1.4, #20 to #21, 6+). A December gain of seven-tenths to 5.5 (sixth to fifth, 6+) by Emmis regional Mexican KLZT “107.1 La Z” erases its collective -.7 in October and November (5.5 – 5.4 – 4.8, 6+). Just as it did in November, University of Texas at Austin-owned triple A KUTX posts a gain of six-tenths (2.1 – 2.7 – 3.3, #15 to #11, 6+). Prior to dropping three-tenths in October, “98.9 The Austin Music Experience” was up an overall six-tenths via six straight sweeps without a loss (1.8 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.4, 6+). Three consecutive down or flat trends by Emmis’ KLBJ-FM accounted for a collective -1.3 (4.7 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 3.4, 6+) but “93.7 The Rock of Austin” gains three-tenths in December to 3.7 (6+) and returns to the top ten (#11 to #9). In addition to being a cumulative +1.0 in four straight up or flat moves (7.3 – 7.8 – 7.8 – 8.3 – 8.3, 6+), adult hits sibling KPBA “103.5 Bob-FM” progresses from the runner-up slot it held the past three months to #1. It is the first time since August that “Bob” has held the top spot. Faltering by eight-tenths (each) are its alternative cluster-mate KROX “101-X” (3.5 – 2.7, #10 to #14, 6+) and Univision Radio regional Mexican KLQB “Que Buena 104.3” (3.1 – 2.3, #13 to #19, 6+). This is the first time “101-X” has been below a three-share (2.7, 6+) since January 2018 (2.9), and KLQB’s lowest 6+-share (2.3) since June’s 2.2. Despite dropping six-tenths (4.5 – 3.9, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR KHFI “96.7 Kiss FM – Austin’s #1 Hit Music Station” remains in eighth-place. Logging decreases of one-half share each are KHFI’s rhythmic CHR sibling KPEZ “102.3 The Beat” (3.4 – 2.9, #11 to #13, 6+) and Emmis triple A KGSR “Austin City Limits Radio” (2.3 – 1.8, flat at #18, 6+). In three straight decreases, iHeartMedia country outlet KVET-FM “98.1 The Austin, Texas Original” has lost a collective eight-tenths but remains at #7 (5.3 – 5.1 – 4.6 – 4.5, 6+). Before posting a +.6 in September, KVET-FM was an overall -1.7 in four straight downward trends (6.4 – 6.1 – 6.0 – 5.6 – 4.7, 6+).

Raleigh

Spoken-Word Formats – While it remains in sixth-place, iHeartMedia news/talk WTKK “106.1 Stay Connected” has lost a combined seven-tenths in November and December (6.3 – 5.9 – 5.6, 6+). It was a collective +1.2 (5.1 – 5.5 – 6.3, 6+) in September and October. Curtis Media Group news/talk WPTF regains half of November’s -.2 (1.6 – 1.7, +.1, 6+) and remains at #18. Prior to faltering by two-tenths in November, “News Radio 680” had nearly doubled (+.8) its 6+-share in eight straight sweeps without a loss (1.0 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.2 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 1.8, 6+).

A cumulative +.6 in September and October (1.8 – 2.2 – 2.4, 6+), Capitol Broadcasting sports talk WCMC “99.9 The Fan” surrenders half that gain in November and December (2.4 – 2.2 – 2.1, -.3, #16 to #17, 6+). Its increase of four-tenths in September stopped three losses in a row that accounted for more than a 50% reduction (-2.1) of its 6+-share (3.9 – 2.6 – 2.0 – 1.8, 6+).

This is the fourth decline in a row for University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill news/talk WUNC “91.5 North Carolina Public Radio” for a collective -1.6 (8.8 – 8.4 – 8.3 – 7.4 – 7.2, flat at #3, 6+). Recently, WUNC has gone from third to first (June, +9); first to third (July, -1.1); third to first (August, +1.2, 6+); first to second (September, -.4+); and second to third (November, -.9, 6+).

Raleigh Music Formats – Registering increases of one full-share each are Curtis Media Group classic hits-oldies WKIX “KIX 102.9 Carolina’s Greatest Hits” (4.1 – 5.1, #11 to #10, 6+) and – from Greensboro – iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMAG “99.5 The Best Variety of the ‘80s, ’90s, & Today” (.4 – 1.4, #20, 6+). WKIX reaches the five-share level for the first time since March 2018’s 5.0. An improvement of seven-tenths to 5.6 (ninth to seventh, 6+) by Curtis Media Group adult hits WBBB “96.1 Your Life – Your Music” halts a mini-slide that accounted for a -1.2 (6.1 – 5.2 – 4.9, 6+). An overall -1.0 in three downturns in a row (3.3 – 2.9 – 2.5 – 2.3, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WNCB “B-93.9 #1 For New Country” picks up one-tenth to 2.4 (6+) and remains at #14. A four-tenths decrease in September suspended at four its consecutive string of increases that netted six-tenths (2.7 – 3.0 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.3, 6+). Continuing at #5 is its format rival, Curtis Media Group’s WQDR “94.7 QDR Today’s Best Country,” which is a collective -1.9 in November and December (8.0 – 6.3 – 6.1, 6+). This (6.1) is its lowest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2016 (6.0). With a +1.0 in September, WQDR curtailed three straight downward moves that led to a -1.2 (8.1 – 7.7 – 7.2 – 6.9, 6+). On the heels of November’s increase of nine-tenths (9.4 – 10.3, 6+), Radio One urban AC WFXC erodes by -1.5 but “Foxy Today’s R&B and Classic Soul” stays on top for the fourth straight month. November’s 10.3 is its strongest 6+-stat since January 2018’s 10.7. It has a 1.2-share (6+) advantage over urban contemporary cluster-mate WQOK, which regresses by eight-tenths to 7.6 (6+), but repeats in the runner-up position; “K-97.5” was up an overall six-tenths in October and November (7.8 – 8.0 – 8.4, 6+).

Indianapolis

Spoken-Word Formats – Over the last four ratings periods, Emmis news/talk WIBC has posted a -.7 (September); +1.0 (October); +.7 (November); and now a -.9 in December (7.2 – 6.3, third to fourth, 6+).

Its sports talk sibling, WFNI “The Fan – Indy’s Sports Center,” records its fifth straight up or flat trend for an overall +1.2 (1.6 – 1.6 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.8, #16 to #14, 6+) and enjoys its best 6+-stat (2.8) in exactly one year (3.1, December 2017). On the other hand, iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WNDE “Indy’s Sports Station” regresses by four-tenths to 1.9 (#16 to #17, 6+), curtailing five straight sweeps without a loss that netted eight-tenths (1.5 – 1.6 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 2.2 – 2.3, 6+).

Adding three-tenths to November’s one-half share increase (4.6 – 4.9, 6+), Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting news/talk WFYI inches up from ninth to eighth. WFYI was off a combined three-tenths in September and October (4.4 – 4.3 – 4.1, 6+).

Indianapolis Music Formats – Following a collective seven-tenths decline in October and November (7.5 – 7.1 – 6.8, 6+), Emmis adult contemporary WYXB “B-105.7” bounces back with an increase more than three times the size of that loss (9.0, +2.2, fourth to second, 6+). Prior to October, “B-105.7” was an overall +1.4 in four consecutive up or flat moves (6.1 – 6.6 – 6.6 – 6.8 – 7.5, 6+). In December 2017, WYXB posted a 7.8 (6+). An improvement of nine-tenths to 7.7 (fourth to third, 6+) by iHeartMedia’s WFBQ “Q-95 Indy’s Classic Rock” halts three (modest) downward moves in succession that resulted in a loss of six-tenths (7.4 – 7.1 – 6.9 – 6.8, 6+). Continuing a down/up pattern that started in June – in which time it is even – (4.3 – 3.2 – 4.1 – 3.7 – 4.0 – 3.5 – 4.3, 6+), Entercom hot AC WNTR carries on at #12; “107.9 The Mix” was up eight-tenths in December. Notwithstanding that it is off by seven-tenths (9.9 – 9.2, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WJJK “Classic Hits 104.5” sets the pace for the sixth month in a row. Its November decrease of one-tenth suspended five successive uptrends which yielded a +3.2 (6.8 – 7.3 – 7.9 – 8.6 – 9.7 – 10.0, 6+). In October, WJJK reached 10.0, the highest 6+-share in the station’s PPM-history. Having finished at #2 in October and November, co-owned WFMS “95.5 The Country Station” plummets -1.8 in December (8.0 – 6.2, 6+), segueing to #5 with its lowest 6+-stat since March (6.2, as well). On top in April 2018, May, and June, WFMS has been -.5 (February); +1.0 (April); +.5 (May); -.5 (July); -.7 (August); +.9 (October); and now -1.8 (December). Meanwhile, Emmis-owned WLHK “Country 97.1 Hank FM” has been -1.5 (September); +.6 (October); -.7 (November); and now -.4 in December (5.0 – 4.6, eighth to tenth, 6+). Down an overall four-tenths in an alternating June 2018 through December 2018 up/down sequence (1.7 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.5 – 1.9 – 1.3, 6+), University of Indianapolis jazz/classical WICR “88.7 The Diamond” (down six-tenths in December) falls from #19 to #18. A collective -1.4 via six straight downtrends (3.7 – 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 2.5 – 2.4 – 2.3, 6+) send Radio One CHR WNOW “100.9 Radio Now” from #15 to #16.

Milwaukee

Spoken-Word Formats – There have been some wild fluctuations this calendar year for Good Karma Brands news/talk WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station,” including -.8 (January); +.9 (February); +1.9 (April); -.6 (May); +.5 (June); -.5 (August); +.6 (September); +2.5 (October); -1.0 (November); and now -2.6 in December (9.4 – 6.8, first to fifth, 6+). This (6.8) is the lowest 6+-showing for the flagship of the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Milwaukee Brewers since March (6.0). A combined +1.3 in October and November, iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WISN “News/Talk 1130” forfeits approximately half that gain in December (6.9 – 6.3, -.6, fifth to sixth, 6+). Immediately before October, WISN was -2.1 in four straight decreases (7.7 – 6.9 – 6.7 – 6.2 – 5.6, 6+).

Despite dropping one-tenth (1.5 – 1.4, 6+), Entercom’s WSSP “Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” advances from #17 to #16. Its loss of four-tenths in November curtailed four consecutive increases that accounted for a collective +.7 (1.2 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.9, 6+). Roughly three-quarters of the way through the November sweep, Good Karma Brands shifted WKTI from country to sports talk. In its first full monthly report in its new format, “94.5 ESPN” erodes by -1.5 to .8 (#15 to #18, 6+). WKTI is now an overall -3.6 in seven straight sweeps without an increase (4.4 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.8 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 2.3 – .8, 6+). Co-owned/Jackson-licensed WAUK “ESPN Milwaukee,” which debuted in November with a .5 (#20, 6+), disappears from print in December. Meanwhile, after quintupling (+.4) its 6+-share in seven successive sweeps without a loss (.1 – .1 – .1 – .2 – .2 – .3 – .4 – .5, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WOKY “The Big 920” surrenders three-tenths to .2 (#24, 6+).

Owing to three straight upticks (2.7 – 3.4 – 3.6 – 4.2, 6+), University of Wisconsin news/talk WUWM is a collective +1.5 and enters the top ten (#12 to #10). Prior to October, WUWM ranked #14 for three straight months and had been within 2.0 – 2.9 range (6+) for 17 consecutive sweeps. The June 2018 – December 2018 topline for Wisconsin Public Radio news/talk WHAD is .9 – .9 – .7 – .9 – .7 – .8 – .8 (#19 to #18, 6+).

Milwaukee Music Formats – Not only does WLDB post a whopping +2.6 (5.1 – 7.7, seventh to second, 6+), “B-93.3 The ‘80s to Today” is just one-tenth from the lead; the Milwaukee Radio Alliance adult contemporary outlet posted a 5.6 in December 2017. A December increase of +1.1 (4.8 – 5.9 eighth to seventh, 6+) by Entercom hot AC WMYX “99.1 The Mix” completely obliterates its -1.1 in October and November (5.9 – 5.1 – 4.8, 6+). Having been an overall -1.3 in four negative moves in a row (4.1 – 3.8 – 3.6 – 3.3 – 2.8, 6+), Milwaukee Radio Alliance alternative WLUM “FM 102.1 Sounds Different” erases just over half that deficit with a +.7 to 3.5 (6+) and remains at #13. Progressing from #16 to #15, Saga Communications’ rhythmic CHR WNRG “Energy 106.9” posts its fourth straight gain for an overall +1.3 (.8 – 1.2 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 2.1, 6+). Over and above adding six-tenths to November’s +.2 (7.0 – 7.2 – 7.8, 6+), co-owned WKLH “Hometown Rock 96.5” jumps from fourth to first. A station familiar with the top spot is WRIT “95.7 Big FM Milwaukee’s Greatest Hits.” The iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies facility spent 43 consecutive ratings periods at #1 but spirals by -1.0 in December (8.7 – 7.7) and is tied for second; WRIT was dislodged from the top spot in October. Off -1.1 in four successive decreases (5.8 – 5.5 – 5.4 – 5.3 – 4.7, 6+), Saga Communications’ WHQG “102.9 The Hog – Everything That Rocks” slips from sixth to eighth. After trending 4.2 – 4.0 – 4.2 (6+), its urban AC cluster-mate, WJMR “Jammin’ 98.3,” surrenders one-half share to 3.7 (#11 to #12, 6+). As a result of dropping two-tenths to 7.3 (third to fourth, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WMIL “FM 106.1 Milwaukee’s Best Country” interrupts three gains in succession that netted +2.2 (5.3 – 5.6 – 6.2 – 7.5, 6+). Ironically, the decrease comes immediately after WMIL lost its country competitor, WKTI, which is now sports talk (see above).

Nashville

Spoken-Word Formats – In 12 of the last 13 sweeps, Cumulus Media news/talk WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” (3.8 – 3.5, -.3, #11 to #14, 6+) has been within 3.0 – 3.9 range 6+; the exception was October 2018 when it logged a 4.0.

Flat at #19, iHeartMedia news/talk WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” nearly doubles (+.6) its 6+-stat via three straight gains (7 – 1.1 – 1.2 – 1.3, 6+).

Bouncing back from November’s loss of nine-tenths with a December gain of two-tenths (5.4 – 5.6, 6+), Cumulus Media sports talk WGFX “104.5 The Zone” advances from seventh to sixth. The Tennessee Titans’ flagship was a collective +3.3 in four consecutive up or flat moves (3.0 – 3.0 – 3.6 – 5.0 – 6.3, 6+), with October’s 6.3 its highest 6+-share since January 2018’s 6.5. By dropping one-tenth to 1.6 (#17 to #18, 6+), Cromwell Group-owned sports talk WPRT “102.5 The Game” suspends three consecutive improvements that yielded a collective +1.0 (.7 – .8 – 1.3 – 1.7, 6+). That streak immediately followed four straight decreases that accounted for a -1.9 (2.6 – 2.5 – .9 – .8 – .7, 6+).

After three down moves in a row in which it was a collective -1.5 (4.9 – 4.6 – 3.6 – 3.4, 6+), Nashville Public Radio news/talk/classical hybrid WPLN-FM “NPR News and Classical Music” is up four-tenths to 3.8 (#14 to #11, 6+). Its internet “stream” is +.7 since surfacing in September 2018 (.2 – .6 – .7 – .9, 6+) and reaches #20 in December.

Nashville Music Formats – Adding a +1.9 to November’s +.9 (8.1 – 9.0 – 10.9, 6+), Midwest Communications adult contemporary WJXA “Mix 92.9 – Your Life, Your Music” is on top for the 11^th successive ratings period. Among its fluctuations in calendar year 2018 are: -6.7 (January); +1.0 (February); -.5 (May); +1.0 (June); +.9 (August); -.9 (September); -.7 (October); +.9 (November); and now +1.9 (December). In addition to zooming from fifth to second, iHeartMedia CHR WRVW “107.5 The River” is a combined +2.4 through five straight gains (4.4 – 4.8 – 5.5 – 5.8 – 6.4 – 6.8, 6+) and has its best 6+-stat (6.8) in over a year (7.2, October 2017). Wiping away November’s loss of one-half share with a December improvement twice that margin (2.6 – 3.6, +1.0, 6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WLVU jumps from #16 to #13. Prior to November, “Positive & Inspiring K-Love” was an overall +.8 through five consecutive sweeps without a loss (2.3 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 3.1 – 3.1, 6+). The +.9 that iHeartMedia urban contemporary WUBT “The Beat” gained in October and November (6.0 – 6.5 – 6.9, 6+) all but disappears in December with a loss of eight-tenths to 6.1 (second to fourth, 6+). Owing to four straight decreases, iHeartMedia-owned WNRQ is a combined -1.4 (7.8 – 7.6 – 6.6 – 6.5 – 6.4, 6+), yet “105.9 The Rock – Nashville’s Classic Rock” climbs from fourth to third. August’s 7.8 was the best 6+-stat for WNRQ, which was an overall +1.5 via four consecutive increases (6.3 – 6.4 – 6.7 – 6.8 – 7.8, 6+) since January (7.8, as well). The market’s three country FMs finish at eighth, ninth, and tenth as they log a collective loss of -2.1 from November. More specifically, on the heels of November’s improvement of eight-tenths and a -1.0 in September, Cumulus Media’s WSM-FM “95.5 Nash Icon” plummets by -1.5 (6.6 – 5.1, third to eighth, 6+). Stable at #9, iHeartMedia’s WSIX “The Big 98 – Nashville’s #1 for New Country,” which was +1.2 (4.3 – 5.1 – 5.5, August-September-October), is now an overall -.9 in November and December (5.5 – 5.0 – 4.6, 6+). After posting three increases in a row for a +.7 (3.6 – 3.7 – 4.0 – 4.3, 6+), “Nash Icon” sibling WKDF “103.3 Nash FM” drops two-tenths to 4.1 (6+), but stays at #10.

Providence

Spoken-Word Formats – An overall +1.1 in four straight sweeps without a loss (3.7 – 4.0 – 4.4 – 4.5 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+), Cumulus Media news/talk WPRO-AM “News Talk 630” advances from seventh to sixth. Its August increase halted three straight down or flat sweeps for a -1.0 (4.7 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.7, 6+). Conversely, a four-tenths’ loss by iHeartMedia news/talk WHJJ “Providence’s News, Traffic, and Weather” (1.7 – 1.3, #12 to #14, 6+) curtails four consecutive up or flat moves that yielded six-tenths (1.1 – 1.3 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 1.7, 6+). This directly follows an overall loss of nine-tenths through five straight decreases (2.0 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.3 – 1.1, 6+). It is tied with Boston hybrid news-talk sibling WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030,” which is up nine-tenths in six straight Providence sweeps without a loss (.8 – .8 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.1 -1.1 – 1.3, #17 to #14, 6+). Continuing at #21, Cumulus Media-owned WPRV “AM 790 Talk & Business” has its 6+-share sliced in half since October (.6 – .5 – .3, 6+).

Following four successive up or flat trends that accounted for a net gain of +2.0 (3.4 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.8 – 5.4, 6+), Entercom sports talk WVEI returns 80% of that increase (3.8, -1.6, sixth to eighth, 6+).

By regaining the three-tenths it lost in November (2.3 – 2.0 – 2.3, 6+), WGBH Educational Foundation news/talk WGBH progresses from tenth to ninth; WGBH was up one-half share in October. Leveling off at 2.0 (6+) after November’s loss of six-tenths, The Wheeler School’s news/talk WELH repeats at #10. WELH gained four-tenths in September and in October (1.8 – 2.2 – 2.6, 6+). In advance of adding four-tenths in September, WELH was off one-half share in six straight sweeps without an increase (2.3 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 2.0 – 1.8, 6+). Immediately prior to the May sweep, these two public radio news/talk outlets (WELH and WGBH) finished back-to-back four straight times and were tied in May at #10.

Providence Music Formats – In addition to being #1 for the fifth month in a row, Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI “Lite Rock 105” dials up a +2.7 to 12.1, its highest 6+-stat since 12.3 in “Holiday” 2017. Over the last three ratings periods, iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWBB has fluctuated by one-half share: “B-101” was +.5 (October); -.5 (November); and now +.5 in December (6.4 – 6.9, fifth to third, 6+). Representative WWBB moves earlier in calendar year 2018 include -.5 (January); +.9 (March); +.6 (April); +.9 (July); -.8 (August); and -.9 (September). After returning October’s one-half share increase in November, Hall Communications’ WCTK further erodes by -1.3 in December (8.7 – 8.2 – 6.9, 6+) and is tied for third with “B-101.” This (6.9) is the lowest 6+performance for “Cat Country 98.1” in approximately two years (6.6, “Holiday” 2016). A loss of eight-tenths (7.4 – 6.6, fourth to fifth, 6+) takes Cumulus Media CHR WPRO-FM “92 PRO FM Today’s Hit Music” below a seven-share (6.6, 6+) for the first time in more than three years (6.9, August 2015).

Norfolk – Good news continues for iHeartMedia rhythmic hot AC WMOV, which has ballooned its 6+ stat more than nine-fold (a whopping +5.7) in five positive spikes in a row (.7 – 1.0 – 1.3 – 1.5 – 1.9 – 6.4, 6+), zooming from eighth to fourth. At this time last year (December 2017), “Movin’ 107.7” logged a 4.4 (6+). Immediately prior to this particular run, however, “Movin’ 107.7” lost 86% of its 6+-share (-4.3) through seven successive sweeps without an increase, (5.0 – 1.6 – 1.3 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – .9 – .7, 6+). Off a combined six-tenths via four consecutive modest decreases (6.3 – 6.2 – 5.9 – 5.8 – 5.7, 6+), Entercom adult contemporary WWDE “101.3 2WD” roars back with a +1.5 to 7.2 (fifth to second, 6+). This (7.2) is its strongest 6+-showing since “Holiday” 2017’s 11.5. Down or flat for the fourth straight time for a -2.6 (15.5 – 13.7 – 13.7 – 13.1 – 12.9, 6+), its urban AC cluster-mate – WVKL “Smooth R&B from Yesterday & Today” – is nonetheless #1 for the 25^th straight survey period and posts a 6+-share of 11.0 or higher for the 33^rd time in the last 34 sweeps. December 2018’s 12.9, however, is its lowest 6+-reading since April’s 12.3. On the other hand, its 15.5 in August 2018 sets the record for highest 6+-performance by any Norfolk station in the PPM-era. A decline of -1.0 (6.5 – 5.5, second to sixth, 6+) sends Saga Communications’ WAFX “Classic Rock 106.9 The Fox” to its weakest 6+-stat (5.5) since 4.7 in “Holiday” 2017. In four consecutive down or flat reports, Entercom’s WNVZ “Z-104 Norfolk Rhythmic Music” is an overall -1.2 (5.3 – 4.7 – 4.6 – 4.6 – 4.1, sixth to seventh, 6+).

Jacksonville

Spoken-Word Formats – In the last six survey periods, Cox Media Group news/talk WOKV “104.5 – Jacksonville’s News, Weather, and Traffic” is -.7 (July); +.5 (August); -.6 (September); +2.0 (October); +.6 (November) and now -.8 in December (11.2 – 10.4, first to second). November’s 11.2 is its best-ever 6+-stat in the PPM-era. Prior to October, the last time WOKV finished first was in May when it scored a 9.3 (6+).

After being up or flat the past four ratings periods for a collective gain of one-half share (.3 – .5 – .5 – .5 – .8, 6+), iHeartMedia sports talk WFXJ “930 The Game – Jacksonville’s Sports Leader” is off one-tenth to .7 (#18 to #20, 6+).

Carrying on at #13, public news/talk WJCT picks up one-tenth to 2.3 (6+), thus ending three consecutive downward moves that led to -1.2 (3.4 – 2.8 – 2.7 – 2.2, 6+).

Jacksonville Music Formats – By posting a December +2.8 to 10.7 (6+), Renda Broadcasting adult contemporary WEJZ completely vaporizes its collective -2.7 via three straight setbacks (10.6 – 9.8 – 8.6 – 7.9, 6+). Moreover, “96.1 Jacksonville’s Official Work Station” marches from third to first with its strongest 6+-mark (10.7) since “Holiday” 2017’s 11.9. Finishing on top in June, July, August, and September, WEJZ was 9.0 in December 2017. As a result of four straight improvements (3.4 – 4.2 – 4.7 – 4.8 – 5.3, 6+), Cox Media Group’s similarly-formatted WEZI was an overall +1.9; however, in December, “Easy 102.9” regresses by four-tenths to 4.9 (seventh to eighth, 6+). That particular positive streak immediately followed three straight down or flat trends that produced a collective -1.2 (4.6 – 4.6 – 4.2 – 3.4, 6+). Urban AC sibling WOKV-HD2 improves by one-half share (1.7 – 2.2, #15 to #14, 6+). Having registered a 3.6 (6+) in three of the last five survey periods (3.6 – 3.5 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 3.6, 6+), iHeartMedia adult hits WWJK sputters by eight-tenths to 2.8 (6+) as “107.3 The River – We Play Anything” departs the top ten (#10 to #11). Following five straight positive spikes that netted a +1.6 (5.4 – 5.7 – 5.9 – 6.0 – 6.4 – 7.0, 6+), Cox Media Group CHR WAPE “95.1 Jacksonville’s #1 Hit Music Station” forfeits one-half share to 6.5 (fourth to fifth, 6+); November’s 7.0 is its strongest 6+-share since “Holiday” 2016’s 7.4. Recording a gain of four-tenths in back-to-back reports (3.7 – 4.1 – 4.5, 6+), Renda Broadcasting-owned WGNE “Gator Country 99.9” carries on at #9. November’s +.4 pulled the plug on six successive downward moves that resulted in an overall -2.2 (5.9 – 5.8 – 5.7 – 4.8 – 4.6 – 4.4 – 3.7, 6+). A cumulative -1.1 in three successive dips (9.3 – 9.2 – 8.5 – 8.2, 6+), Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WJGL “96.9 The Eagle,” which had been in the runner-up slot the past three months, segues to third.

West Palm Beach

Spoken-Word Formats – By adding three-tenths to November’s increase of six-tenths (2.0 – 2.6 – 2.9, 6+), Alpha Media’s WFTL “News Talk 850” enters the top ten (#11 to #9). A loss of four-tenths in October halted at four its consecutive string of upticks that netted seven-tenths (1.7 – 1.9 – 2.1 – 2.3 – 2.4, 6+). Meanwhile, after gaining one-half share in October, iHeartMedia news/talk WJNO “1290 The Palm Beaches’ News & Talk” has lost a collective three-tenths in November and December (2.4 – 2.3 – 2.1, flat at #12, 6+). WJNO was a combined -1.0 in August and September (2.9 – 2.3 – 1.9, 6+). Co-owned news/talk WZZR “Real Radio 94.3 – Real Talk for the Palm Beaches,” which recorded a 1.8 (6+) the past three reports, slips three-tenths to 1.5 (#14 to #15); WZZR gained one-half share in August. Miami news/talk sibling WIOD picks up one-tenth (.9 – 1.0, 6+) and returns to West Palm Beach’s top twenty (#22 to #18, 6+).

Bouncing back from November’s six-tenths’ loss with a December increase of one-half share (3.3 – 3.8, 6+), WLRN jumps from eighth to sixth. Immediately prior to the November sweep, the Dade County School Board news/talk station logged three straight improvements resulting in a collective +1.0 (2.9 – 3.1 – 3.4 – 3.9, 6+).

West Palm Beach Music Formats – On the heels of November’s four-tenths’ improvement, Alpha Media’s WEAT dials up a +1.9 (4.6 – 5.0 – 6.9, 6+) as “Sunny 107.9” zooms from fourth to second. Off six-tenths in October, “Sunny” has its best 6+-showing (6.9) since 9.1 in “Holiday” 2017. After plummeting by -1.8 in November, hot AC cluster-mate WRMF “97.9 Variety from the 90s and Now” makes up more than half that loss with a +1.0 (8.9 – 9.9, 6+) and is #1 for the 12^th sweep in succession. WRMF was an overall +1.7 in five consecutive up or flat reports (9.0 – 9.3 – 9.3 – 9.4 – 10.0 – 10.7, 6+), with October’s 10.7 its highest 6+-share since November 2017 (11.2). Following back-to-back gains that netted one-half share (.8 – 1.1 – 1.3, 6+), iHeartMedia Miami adult contemporary WMIA “93.9 Variety From the ‘80s, ‘90s, & Today” surrenders six-tenths to .7 (6+) and exits the top twenty (#17 to #22, 6+). Down one-half share each are its classic rock sibling WKGR “Gater 98.7,” which is a collective -1.2 in three consecutive negative trends (5.0 – 4.4 – 4.3 – 3.8, flat at #6, 6+) and Alpha Media’s WIRK “103.1 South Florida Country” (3.6 – 3.1, seventh to eighth, 6+). Via five straight upticks, iHeartMedia Spanish contemporary WRLX was a combined +1.3 (1.5 – 1.6 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.7 – 2.8, 6+), but “Mia 92.1” is off two-tenths and departs the top ten (2.6, #10 to #11, 6+).

Greensboro

Spoken-Word Formats – Although it repeats at #9, iHeartMedia news/talk WPTI “94.5 Your News, Talk, & Sports Station” forfeits one-half share of October and November’s collective +.7 (3.5 – 3.8 – 4.2 – 3.7, 6+); WPTI was down eight-tenths in September.

A gain of two-tenths (.3 – .5, steady at #16, 6+) takes Curtis Media Group sports talk WSJS “Triad Sports” to its best 6+-showing since May (.5, as well).

This is the seventh consecutive time that Wake Forest University news/talk WFDD “88.5 Public Radio for the Piedmont” finishes at #13 (1.9 – 2.1, +.2, 6+). After four straight up or flat trends that netted four-tenths (2.0 – 2.0 – 2.1 – 2.3 – 2.4, 6+), WFDD was down one-half share in November. Stable at #15, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill news/talk WUNC has a May 2018 through December 2018 (6+) topline of: 1.1 – 1.0 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.1 – .8 – .6.

Greensboro Music Formats – Not only is iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMAG up or flat for the fourth straight month for a whopping (collective) +7.1 more than doubling its 6+-share since August (6.8 – 7.9 – 8.5 – 8.5 – 13.9, 6+), “99.5 – The Triad’s Best Variety” leaps from third to first. This (13.9) is its highest 6+-showing since 16.1 in “Holiday” 2017 and easily beats its (6+) December 2017 reading of 11.8. Dislodged from the top spot after 11 straight sweeps there is WQMG “97.1 QMG The Best R&B and Old School” (11.4 – 10.8, -.6, first to second, 6+), which nonetheless is in double-digits (6+) for the 25^th straight time. The Entercom urban AC was +1.0 in November. Its gain of two-tenths in October applied the brakes to five successive decreases that resulted in a net loss of -2.0 (12.2 – 12.0 – 11.2 – 10.9 – 10.5 – 10.2, 6+). A combined -.8 in October and September, iHeartMedia-owned WTQR gained three-tenths in November, but “Q-104.1 – #1 for New Country” craters by -1.6 in December (6.7 – 5.1, fifth to eighth, 6+). Meanwhile, Entercom’s similarly-formatted WPAW “93.1 The Wolf” was up one-half share in October; faltered by four-tenths in November; and is down three-tenths in December (5.5 – 5.2, flat at #7, 6+) – but – overtakes WTQR. Spiraling by -1.1 (4.0 – 2.9, 6+), iHeartMedia rocker WVBZ “105.7 Man Up!” has its lowest 6+-stat since February 2018 (2.9, as well) and departs the top ten (#10 to #12). While it remains at #4, Entercom rhythmic CHR WJMH “102 JAMZ” is an overall -2.1 in six straight sweeps without an increase, (8.2 – 7.4 – 7.2 – 7.2 – 6.9 – 6.9 – 6.1, 6+). In the runner-up slot the past 11 sweeps, adult hits cluster-mate WSMW “98.7 Simon Says We Play Everything” sputters by seven-tenths (9.3 – 8.6, 6+) and segues to third. When it picked up two-tenths in November, “Simon” suspended three straight declines that accounted for a combined loss of nine-tenths (10.0 – 9.7 – 9.6 – 9.1, 6+). Over the course of the last four sweeps, iHeartMedia CHR WMKS “100.3 Kiss FM All the Hits” is +.5 (September, 2.9 – 3.4, 6+); -.6 (October, 3.4 – 2.8, 6+); +.9 (November, 2.8 – 3.7, 6+); and now -.5 (December, 3.7 – 3.2, flat at #11, 6+). Prior to November, “Kiss” occupied the #12 position for five consecutive sweeps.

Memphis

Spoken-Word Formats – In a September-October-November-December down/up pattern in which time it has lost six-tenths (3.4 – 3.1 – 3.4 – 2.8, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WREC “600 AM – Memphis’ News, Traffic, & Weather” drifts from the top ten (#10 to #13).

In addition to logging five straight gains for an overall +1.4 (2.3 – 2.4 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 3.2 – 3.7, 6+), Entercom sports talk WMFS enters the top ten (#11 to #10). Immediately prior to this streak, “ESPN Sports Radio” was off six-tenths in July.

Memphis Music Formats – Not only is iHeartMedia urban AC KJMS up one full-share (10.5 – 11.5, 6+), “V-101” progresses from third to first and is in double-digits (6+) for the eighth successive sweep. This (11.5) is the best 6+-stat for “V-101” since June 2016’s 11.6. In a rare case of an adult contemporary outlet exiting the #1 slot in December 2018, Entercom’s WRVR “104.5 The River” freefalls by -1.6 (10.9 – 9.3, first to second, 6+). “The River” was off one-tenth in November, following October’s +2.4 to 11.0, its best 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2017’s 12.9. At the same time, its format rival – Cumulus Media’s WKIM “98.9 The Bridge” – is an overall +2.1 in six consecutive reports without a loss (1.4 – 1.6 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.9 – 2.1 – 3.5, #14 to #11, 6+). The rollercoaster ride continues for WKIM sibling WGKX “Kix 106 Today’s Best Country,” which was +1.8 in three straight increases; -.2 in September; -.5 in October; -.5 (again) in November; and is now +.7 in December (4.0 – 4.7, ninth to eighth, 6+). Up six-tenths each are iHeartMedia gospel WHAL “95.7 Halleluiah – Memphis’ Inspiration Station” (unchanged at #5, 6+) and co-owned CHR KWNW “101.9 Kiss FM” (1.1 – 1.7, steady at #15, 6+). WHAL is an overall +1.6 in four straight positive spikes (4.6 – 4.7 – 5.3 – 5.6 – 6.2, 6+). December 2018’s 6.2 is the highest 6+-reading for WHAL since April’s 7.1. This streak directly follows six successive down monthlies in a row for a collective -2.7 (7.3 – 7.2 – 7.1 – 6.1 – 4.8 – 4.8 – 4.6, 6+). Immediately after Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO “Soul Classics and Today’s R&B” posted a November +1.9, it surrenders all of it and another one-tenth more in December (10.7 – 8.7, -2.0, second to third, 6+). Nevertheless, November’s 10.7 is the highest 6+-share for WRBO in its PPM-history. Prior to adding two-tenths in October, WRBO was a combined -1.4 in four successive sweeps without an increase (10.0 – 9.3 – 8.8 – 8.8 – 8.6, 6+).

Hartford

Spoken-Word Formats – A loss of nine-tenths (6.8 – 5.9, 6+) sends Entercom news/talk WTIC-AM from fifth to sixth; “News Talk 1080” was up eight-tenths in October. Going into the October sweep, WTIC-AM notched a 6.2 (6+) in each of the previous three sweeps. Thus far this calendar year, Red Wolf Broadcasting news/talk WDRC-AM “AM 1360 The Talk of Connecticut” (#14 to #15) has an ultra-consistent (6+) topline: 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.0 – 1.2 – 1.1 – 1.0 – 1.2 – 1.1 – 1.0.

Ever since reappearing in print in July 2018, iHeartMedia sports talk WUCS “97.9 ESPN Hartford” is trending 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 2.0 – 1.6 – 1.4 (#12 to #13, 6+).

Although it is a combined +1.4 in four upticks in succession (3.5 – 4.0 – 4.3 – 4.6 – 4.9, 6+), Connecticut Public Broadcasting Network news/talk WNPR “Connecticut’s Public Media Source for News & Ideas” backslides from eighth to ninth. Directly in advance of this streak, WNPR was -2.4 after seven straight down or flat trends (5.9 – 5.9 – 5.5 – 4.2 – 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.5, 6+). Meanwhile, University of Massachusetts-owned WFCR “New England Public Radio,” which had a collective loss of one-half share through three negative moves in succession (1.6 – 1.5 – 1.2 – 1.1, 6+), picks up two-tenths to 1.3 (steady at #14, 6+). An August gain of three-tenths halted five successive down or flat trends that led to a -1.2 (2.5 – 1.8 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.3, 6+).

Hartford Music Formats – Down eight-tenths in November (11.4 – 10.6, 6+), Entercom adult contemporary WRCH roars back with a +1.8 to 12.4 (6+) and is on top for the 29^th consecutive ratings period. In addition, “Lite 100.5” is in double-digits (6+) for the 26^th time in the last 28 sweeps with its best 6+-performance since June (12.4, as well). In December 2017, WRCH posted a 13.0 (6+). When co-owned WZMX “Hot 93.7” gained four-tenths in November, it ended five straight decreases that accounted for a -1.9 (8.3 – 8.2 – 7.8 – 7.0 – 6.7 – 6.4, 6+). The rhythmic CHR adds another seven-tenths in December (6.8 – 7.5, sixth to third, 6+). As a result of four straight sweeps without a loss, iHeartMedia’s WWYZ “Country 92.5” nets a +1.4 (6.4 – 7.0 – 7.2 – 7.8 – 7.8, repeating at #2, 6+); 7.8 in November and December is its highest 6+-stat since May (7.8, as well). An overall -1.3 owing to three straight declines (5.7 – 5.4 – 5.0 – 4.4, 6+), Red Wolf Broadcasting’s WDRC-FM “102.9 The Whale – Hartford’s Classic Rock” answers with a +.8 to 5.2 (ninth to eighth, 6+). While unchanged at #7, iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WHCN “105.9 The River” falters by seven-tenths (6.0 – 5.3, 6+). Following a November increase of seven-tenths (2.4 – 3.1 6+), Red Wolf Broadcasting’s Spanish tropical WMRQ-HD2 surrenders one-half share (2.6, flat at #11, 6+).

Friday, January 4, 2019

TALKERS | January 4, 2019

KABC, Los Angeles Unveils New Talk Show Lineup. With last month’s departure of longtime morning personality Doug McIntyre from the lineup, there was a hole to be filled in the KABC, Los Angeles program schedule. Cumulus Media moves John Phillips and Jillian Barberie from afternoons to host “The Morning Drive” show and fills the afternoon daypart with a live airing of the Westwood One-syndicated Ben Shapiro show (two radio hours plus his podcast) from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, effective Monday (1/7). Additionally, WMAL-AM/FM, Washington talk host Larry O’Connor will host the 10:00 am to 12:00 noon program and Leeann Tweeden moves from mornings to middays to co-host “Dr. Drew Midday Live” with Dr. Drew Pinsky, taking the place of current co-host Lauren Sivan. Finally, Peter Tilden returns to his early evening program airing from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. KABC operations director Drew Hayes comments, “Ben Shapiro has become the voice of his generation, delivering fact-based, fearless analysis of the issues challenging America. We are thrilled to welcome Ben to afternoon drive on KABC, in his hometown. He will fit right in with our reloaded lineup: John and Jillian now waking up SoCal, Leeann teaming with Dr. Drew, Peter Tilden for the extended commute home, and Larry O’Connor, who will energize middays.”

Dave Ramsey Show a Top Podcast in 2018. According to data from Apple, the podcast edition of the nationally syndicated Dave Ramsey radio show (airing on more than 600 stations across the country) was the fifth most-downloaded podcast of 2018. Ramsey Media senior vice president Brian Mayfield says, “It’s significant. Just as our audience continues to grow on terrestrial radio, a whole new generation of listeners has joined us on the digital side. We couldn’t be happier.” Dave Ramsey comments, “We’ve always determined success based on how many people are getting helped. The podcast allows people to listen where they want and when they want. And that means they can take control of the money and improve their lives. It’s awesome.”

WBAL, Baltimore Adds New Midday Show; Moves Hollander to PM Drive. The afternoon news block is gone from Hearst’s news/talk WBAL-AM, Baltimore “NewsRadio 1090 and FM 101.5” and the Brett Hollander show moves to the 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm daypart. Simultaneously, weekend personality Yuripzy Morgan moves to the daily 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm slot. WBAL president and general manager Cary Pahigian states, “Insightful talk and analysis, aggressive news coverage, and a staff that understands Baltimore and Maryland has been WBAL’s calling card for 93 years.”

Gene Rossi Program Debuts on WJFN-FM, Richmond. Tomorrow (1/5), the Gene Rossi show debuts on news/talk WJFN-FM, Richmond, Virginia. The station is operated by nationally syndicated talk show host John Fredericks – whose program airs from 6:00 am to 10:00 am on the station. Fredericks has created a lineup of talk shows dedicated to Virginia-oriented political talk from across the ideological spectrum. Gene Rossi is a Northern Virginia-based attorney in private practice with a national law firm. He spent nearly three decades as an assistant U.S. attorney in the Eastern District of Virginia. In 2017, he was a Democratic candidate for Virginia lieutenant governor and currently teaches constitutional law at George Mason University and trial advocacy at Harvard Law School. Fredericks says, “The addition of ‘The Gene Rossi Show’ to the WJFN programming lineup is an exciting development for the listening public that also demonstrates our commitment to bringing diverse voices and perspectives to the airwaves. Gene has been an insightful guest on my show over the years and I look forward to listening to him as the host of his own show on our growing news/talk network.”

Armen Williams Appointed PD for KILT-AM and KIKK-AM in Houston. Sports radio pro Armen Williams is the new program director at Entercom’s sports talk duo KILT-AM “SportsRadio 610” and KIKK-AM “CBS Sports Radio 650.” Williams was most recently PD at Bonneville’s KKFN, Denver “104.3 The Fan.” He takes over for the recently departed Ryan McCreddden. Entercom Houston SVP and market manager Sarah Frazier says, “Armen is a born leader and we know that he is the right person to guide ‘SportsRadio’ forward. His passion, enthusiasm and strategic thinking will help take us to the next level of Houston sports talk.”

Kathy Byerly Named GM at Neuhoff Decatur. Sales and management pro Kathy Byerly is promoted to vice president and general manager for Neuhoff Media’s Decatur, Illinois station group that includes award-wining news/talk outlet WSOY-AM and sports talk WDZ-AM, as well as three music-formatted stations. Byerly has been serving as director of sales and associate GM for the cluster. Byerly comments, “I’m thrilled to be leading a team that has proven time and again the core values of our company: grit, community, innovation and excellence. Every day we are winning for our listeners, clients, community, and resetting the bar for what a local media company looks like in our local market.”

TALKERS News Notes. In Kansas City, KCMO-AM adds Westwood One’s Ben Shapiro to the program schedule in afternoon drive, replacing the Phil Valentine show that ended its syndication run (Valentine still hosts his afternoon drive show on WWTN-FM, Nashville). KCMO program director Pete Mundo tells TALKERS, “Our ability to have my local AM drive show with Ben in PM drive gives us two conservative millennials to bring more youth to the news talk radio space. We’re excited!”…..Houmatoday.com reports that talk radio host Moon Griffon – independently syndicated daily across the state of Louisiana to some 10 affiliates – is being added to the WJBO, Baton Rouge lineup for a Saturday program. Griffon tells LaPolitics, “I’m tickled to death. We think that we need to be there. I feel like our program talks more about what goes on in Baton Rouge, at the Capitol and in the governor’s office, more than anybody else.”…..It’s the end of an era at Townsquare Media’s WOBM, Lakewood Township, New Jersey as Marianne Levy exits the station. She joined WOBM in 1997 with her late husband Bob Levy. Their show wrapped in 2015 when Bob Levy semi-retired. Marianne continued to work for the station until last month, when she was let go…..Bay Area sports play-by-play pro Greg Papa will be calling games for the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers next season on Cumulus Media’s KNBR, San Francisco, the team’s flagship station. Papa previously was play-by-play voice for the Oakland Raiders until exiting that role before the 2018 season. Papa takes over for Ted Robinson who is now handling community affairs for the 49ers…..After telling his listeners that he’s willing do their laundry for them since he does his nationally syndicated Westwood One program from his basement laundry room, more than one listener took Walter Sterling up on it, including retired Air Force sargent Liz Thomison, who sent her military fatigues to Sterling. Pictured below is Sterling’s 13-year-old daughter Meredith posing with the clean fatigues. Sterling comments, “Anyone can say ‘thank you for your service.’ Real gratitude is in the spin cycle.”

William Shatner Guests on New Mancow Program. Legendary actor William Shatner, pictured above with Erich Mancow Muller, was one of the guests on Mancow’s inaugural morning program on Cumulus Media’s WLS-AM, Chicago yesterday (1/3). Shatner announced his upcoming debut performance on the Grand Ole Opry, where he’ll be promoting his new country album Why Not Me, recorded with Jeff Cook of the band Alabama.

New Congress and Pelosi House Speaker Top News/Talk Story for Week of December 31-January 4. The 116^thCongress and Democrat Nancy Pelosi’s return to Speaker of the House was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio during the week, landing atop the Talkers Ten^TM. At # 2 this week was the border wall battle and the government shutdown. Coming in at #3 was Mitt Romney’s attacks on President Trump, followed by U.S. military strategy in Syria, Iraq, and Afghanistan at #4. The Talkers Ten^TMis 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.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Programmer James Howard joins iHeartMedia Chicago as senior vice president of programming and PD for CHR WKSC “103.5 KISS FM.” Howard most recently held the same position in the company’s Washington, DC region…..Gone from Cumulus Media’s KKND, New Orleans is the urban AC format and in is classic hits as the station is re-formatted and re-branded “106.7 The Krewe.” The station also unveils its new morning show, “The Spud Show,” hosted by New Orleans icon Spud McConnell. KKND program director Paul Cannell comments, “What a great way to kick off the New Year! This 100,000-watt classic hits station, featuring incredible personalities like Spud – and the best music ever made – is sure to be a hit here in New Orleans.”…..Entercom adds two personalities to the morning program on urban contemporary WVEE “V-103.” Jade Novah and JR will join current morning host Frank Ski, effective January 22. Entercom says that in addition to their morning show duties, Novah and JR will create content for V-103’s digital platforms. Novah is a singer, songwriter, and actress. She was vocal producer and mentor on FOX TV’s music competition show, “The Four: Battle for Stardom.” She also released her debut album, All Blue. JR most recently was on-air at WFAN, New York “The Fan” and has served with NBC Nonstop TV, CNN Headline News, and Bleacher Report…..Alpha Media Dayton’s urban contemporary WROU adds the Premiere Networks syndicated Steve Harvey show to the station’s program schedule for morning drive…..United Stations Radio Networks announces Audrey Parets is taking over hosting “The Acoustic Storm,” the show created and hosted by her late husband Jeff Parets. Jeff Parets died unexpectedly in November and USRN says he left behind a great music library, an archive of his program and the wish that his wife continue the show. The new show will debut in February…..Pictured below are some of the country’s top voice over artists at the 10^th– and likely last – Radio Dream Lunch produced by Art Vuolo. It took place at the home of radio and record memorabilia museum curator Steve Resnik in Shadow Hills, California on December 30. Seen below are (from l-r): Joe Cipriano, Neil Ross, Randy Thomas, Shadoe Stevens, and John Leader.

December 2018 PPM Data – Part Three. December 2018 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 December 2018 survey period covered November 8 – December 5. 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.

Portland

Spoken Word Formats – After being within 5.0 – 5.3 range July through November (5.0 – 5.3 – 5.2 – 5.3 – 5.1, 6+), Alpha Media news/talk KXL falters by six-tenths to 4.5 (fourth to seventh, 6+). From June – September, “101 FM News – Stay Connected” was at #5. Locked on 2.2 (6+) in October and November, iHeartMedia’s KEX “News Radio 1190 – Depend On Us” slips two-tenths (2.0, #18 to #19, 6+); 2.2 is its best 6+-showing since August 2016 (2.2, as well). A collective +.3 in October and November (.8 – .9 – 1.1, 6+), Alpha Media news/talk KUFO “Freedom 970” drops one-tenth (1.0, #23 to #24, 6+).

Entercom sports talk KFXX “1080 The Fan” is an overall -1.2 via three straight decreases (2.3 – 1.7 – 1.3 – 1.1, #21 to #22, 6+). Portland’s “Fan” was a collective +.9 in August and September (1.4 – 1.7 – 2.3, 6+). KFXX is now tied with Alpha Media-owned KXTG “The Game,” which (like “The Fan”) is down for the third consecutive month; “The Game” has a cumulative loss of four-tenths in that stretch (1.5 – 1.4 – 1.2 – 1.1, flat at #22, 6+). Meanwhile, after logging three increases in a row for a +.3 (.4 – .5 – .5 – .7, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KPOJ “Sports Radio 620” – the flagship of the Portland Trailblazers – forfeits one-tenth (.6 #25 to #27, 6+).

Notwithstanding that it is without a loss for the fifth time in a row for a collective +1.2 (8.1 – 8.1 – 8.2 – 8.9 – 9.2 – 9.3, 6+) and has its best 6+-stat (9.3) since March 2018 (9.5), Oregon Public Broadcasting news/talk KOPB segues from first to second. KOPB had been on top from January 2018 to August 2018 (including a tie in April), before dropping to second in September. Earlier, it was +1.1 (January 2018); -1.1 (February); +1.0 (March); -1.0 (April); -.5 (May); and +.7 (October). Its internet stream gains one-half share (.3 – .8, #26, 6+).

Portland Music Formats – Roaring back from November’s loss of six-tenths with a rousing +3.2 (8.2 – 11.4, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary KKCW advances from second to first. “K-103” was #1 in December 2017 (13.0, 6+); “Holiday” 2017 (16.9, 6+); and tied for first (with KOPB) in April 2018 (8.5, 6+). Prior to November 2018, KKCW was a +1.6 via four successive reports without a loss (7.2 – 7.7 -7.9 – 8.8 – 8.8, 6+). In December 2017, “K-103” notched a 13.0 (6+). As a result of three straight upticks (2.4 – 3.0 – 3.6 – 3.8, 6+), Alpha Media-owned KUPL “98.7 The Bull – #1 for New Country” is an overall +1.4 and enters the top ten (#12 to #9). In advance of the October sweep, “The Bull” was -1.6 in three straight months without an increase (4.0 – 4.0 – 3.9 – 2.9 – 2.4, 6+). Even though Entercom’s similarly-formatted KWJJ is a cumulative -1.2 in six straight down or flat trends (4.6 – 4.6 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.5 – 3.4, 6+), “99.5 The Wolf – The Northwest’s Hottest Country” advances from #13 to #11. A collective -1.7 in October and November (5.8 – 4.4 – 4.1, 6+), Alpha Media triple A KINK “101.9 Uniquely Portland” erases seven-tenths of that loss in December (4.8, ninth to sixth, 6+). Four decreases in a row by Entercom-owned KGON accounted for a collective -1.0 (5.6 – 5.4 – 4.8 – 4.7 – 4.6, 6+), but “92.3 Portland’s Classic Rock” counters with a one-half share December increase to 5.1 (sixth to fourth, 6+). Immediately prior to the aforementioned negative streak, KGON had been without a loss four straight times for a +1.6 (4.0 – 4.0 – 4.6 – 5.4 – 5.6, 6+). Conversely, its adult hits sibling – KYCH “97.1 Charlie We Play Everything” – wipes away its October and November +.7 (3.6 – 4.2 – 4.3, 6+) with a December -1.1 (3.2, 6+) and fades from the top ten (#8 to #14). A downturn of eight-tenths (4.1 – 3.3, 6+) sends co-owned alternative KNRK “94.7 Portland Alternative Music” to its lowest 6+-stat since February 2018 (3.3, as well). As the result of four straight negative moves, Mount Hood Community College District jazz outlet KMHD has eroded by one full-share (1.1 – .8 – .7 – .6 – .1, 6+, #34, 6+). Having more than doubled (+2.3) its 6+-stat in four straight up or flat trends (1.7 – 2.5 – 3.0 – 4.0 – 4.0, 6+), Salem Media Group contemporary Christian KFIS “104.1 The Fish” surrenders four-tenths to 3.6 (6+) yet returns to the top ten (#11 to #10). Entering the August sweep, “The Fish” had been down in each of the previous four monthlies for a cumulative -.8 (2.5 – 2.1 – 2.0 – 1.8 – 1.7, 6+).

Charlotte

Spoken-Word Formats – A December loss of six-tenths by Entercom news/talk WBT follows October’s +.9 and November’s +.5 (2.9 – 3.8 – 4.3 – 3.7, 6+), as the flagship of the NFL’s Carolina Panthers exits the top ten (#10 to #12). November’s 4.3 is WBT’s highest 6+-share since February (4.3, as well).

Locked at #19, co-owned sports talk WFNZ “The Fan – Charlotte’s Sports Leader” has nearly tripled (+1.0) its 6+ share as a result of five straight up or flat moves (.6 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.6, 6+). This particular streak follows four straight sweeps without an increase that resulted in a -1.1 (1.7 – 1.7 – 1.1 – .7 – .6, 6+) for the key station of the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets.

Four downward trends in succession by University Radio Foundation news/talk WFAE accounted for a combined -1.6 (4.1 – 3.7 – 3.0 – 2.7 – 2.5, 6+), but “Charlotte’s NPR News Source” repeats November’s 2.7 (#15 to #17, 6+). The July through December topline for South Carolina Educational Television Commission news/talk WNSC is: .5 – .6 – .5 – .7 – .6 – .4 (flat at #20, 6+).

Charlotte Music Formats – Busting out of an August 2018 through November 2018 topline of 5.3 – 5.1 – 5.1 – 5.2 (6+) with a +2.8 to 8.0 (6+), Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WKQC vaults from seventh to first. This time last year, “K-104.7 More Music/Better Variety” notched a 7.0 (6+, December 2017). Progressing by seven-tenths (each) are iHeartMedia adult hits WLKO “102.9 The Lake” and CHR sibling WHQC “Channel 96.1.” Repeating at #2, “The Lake” boasts its eighth straight month without a loss (4.1 – 4.3 – 4.7 – 5.2 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 6.4 – 7.1 – 7.8, 6+) for a whopping +3.7. Meanwhile, “Channel 96.1,” which was a combined +1.3 in September and October (2.7 – 3.5 – 4.0, 6+), completely obliterates November’s -.6 (4.0 – 3.4 – 4.1, 6+) and is back in the top ten (#13 to #10). Additionally, it overtakes Beasley Media Group’s similarly-formatted WNKS “Kiss 95.1,” which is down three-tenths in back-to-back months (4.4 – 4.1 – 3.8, flat at #11, 6+). In five straight decreases, Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WRCM was a collective -1.9 (4.3 – 3.9 – 3.8 – 3.4 – 2.9 – 2.4, 6+), but “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” posts a December improvement of six-tenths (3.0, #17 to #15, 6+). December 2018 proves to be a rough sweep for the market’s two major country FMs: Beasley Media Group’s WSOC “103.7 Country’s Hottest Hits” (7.5 – 6.6, 6+) and iHeartMedia’s WKKT “96.9 The Kat – Charlotte’s #1 for New Country” (6.7 – 5.8, fourth to fifth, 6+) both falter by nine-tenths. On top for the past three months, “Country’s Hottest Hits” segues to third. An October loss of two-tenths ended four straight up or flat reports that netted a +1.5 (6.2 – 6.9 – 6.9 – 7.5 – 7.7, 6+). Prior to August, the last time WSOC reached the seven-share level (6+) was “Holiday” 2016 (7.0). Entering the November sweep, “The Kat” was an overall +1.1 in four successive months without a loss (6.0 – 6.2 – 6.2 – 6.8 – 7.1, 6+). Up (modestly) or flat in each of the last three ratings periods for an overall gain of four-tenths (5.1 – 5.4 – 5.4 – 5.5, 6+), Entercom hot AC WLNK “107.9 The Link – Charlotte’s Best Mix” surrenders eight-tenths (4.7, sixth to seventh, 6+). This marks the third straight slip for iHeartMedia’s WRFX “99.7 The Fox – Charlotte’s Classic Rock” for a collective -1.3 (6.4 – 5.9 – 5.6 – 5.1, fifth to sixth, 6+). Anchored in fourth-place, Beasley Media Group urban AC WBAV “V-101.9” is -2.0 as the result of five straight negative moves (7.9 – 7.6 – 6.9 – 6.1 – 6.0 – 5.9, 6+). “V-101.9” was +1.4 in May; eroded by -1.2 in June; and erased that -1.2 in its entirety in July with a +1.2.

San Antonio

Spoken-Word Formats – A -1.1 to 3.3 (6+) forces iHeartMedia news/talk and San Antonio Spurs’ flagship WOAI “News Radio 1200 – San Antonio’s News, Traffic, & Weather” out of the top ten (#7 to #11). WOAI’s November loss of one-tenth halted at three its consecutive string of improvements that yielded one full-share (3.5 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.5, 6+). October’s 4.5 was its best 6+-showing since April 2017 (4.5, as well). Flat at #22, Alpha Media news/talk KTSA “Stay Connected” has a July 2018 – December 2018 topline of 1.4 – 1.7 – 1.4 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.6 (6+).

Without an increase for the fourth straight month (.7 – .7 – .6 – .5 – .4, 6+), iHeartMedia sports talk KTKR “Ticket 760 – San Antonio’s Sports Station” carries on at #28.

Four consecutive up or flat trends netted KSTX one full-share (2.6 – 3.0 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.6, 6+), but the Texas Public Radio news/talk outlet sputters by four-tenths to 3.2 (flat at #12, 6+).

San Antonio Music Formats – Down (marginally) or flat the past three sweeps for a loss of two-tenths (4.5 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.3, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary KQXT answers with a whopping +5.2 to 9.5 as “Q-101.9” rockets from ninth to first. In December 2017, KQXT notched an 8.7 (6+). Ousted from the top spot after a one-month (November 2018) stay and dropping to third is Cox Media Group-owned KCYY “Y-100 San Antonio’s New Country Leader,” which returns all but one-tenth of November’s +.9 (7.0 – 6.2, -.8, 6+). September’s loss of eight-tenths curtailed three straight gains that accounted for a +1.5 (5.3 – 5.7 – 5.9 – 6.8, 6+). In August, KCYY reached the six-share level (6.8) for the first time since October 2017’s 6.0. Meanwhile, iHeartMedia’s KAJA “KJ-97 San Antonio’s #1 Country Station” improves by +1.0 (5.0 – 6.0, sixth to fourth, 6+) and trails “Y-100” by just two-tenths; “KJ-97” spiraled by -1.1 in October. A loss of seven-tenths takes Alpha Media adult hits KJXK “102.7 Jack FM Playing What We Want” to 4.6 (fifth to seventh, 6+). November’s +.7 by iHeartMedia CHR KXXM “96.1 Now – San Antonio’s #1 Hit Music Station” all but completely dissipates December’s loss of six-tenths (3.7 – 3.1, #11 to #14, 6+). Its one-tenth gain in October interrupted five April through September decreases that accounted for an overall -2.1 (5.0 – 4.9 – 4.4 – 3.7 – 3.3 – 2.9, 6+). On the heels of November’s -1.4, Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies KONO-FM “101.1 San Antonio’s Greatest Hits” is off by an additional one-half share (6.9 – 6.4, 6+) but continues in the runner-up slot. Before slipping to #2 in November, KONO-FM had been on top the previous ten sweeps. When “San Antonio’s Greatest Hits” dropped one-half share in October, it halted at four a consecutive string of increases that yielded a +2.2 (6.6 – 7.0 – 7.7 – 7.8 – 8.8, 6+). In September, KONO-FM reached the eight-share threshold (8.8) for the first time since November 2016’s 8.2. Within 3.0 – 3.5 range (6+) in each of the last six sweeps (3.0 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.5 – 3.2 – 3.3, 6+), Alpha Media regional Mexican KSAH “Norteňo 104.1” slumps by one-half share to 2.8 (#13 to #15, 6+). Faltering by one-half share as well – with each having identical 2.7 – 2.2, #16 to #18 (6+) profiles – are Univision Radio Spanish contemporary KMYO “Latino Mix 95.1” and Alpha Media rhythmic CHR KTFM “Energy 94.1.” December 2018’s 2.2 represents recent lows for KMYO (January 2018, 2.2, as well) and KTFM (2.1, May 2018).

Sacramento

Spoken-Word Formats – Following October’s +1.4 (5.6 – 7.0, 6+) iHeartMedia-owned news/talk KFBK “Sacramento’s News, Weather, and Traffic Station” is a collective -.5 in November and December (7.0 – 6.8 – 6.5, second to fourth, 6+). Immediately prior to the October ratings period, KFBK hadn’t posted an increase in the eight previous reports resulting in an overall -3.0 (8.6 – 8.1 – 8.1 – 7.8 – 6.7 – 6.3 – 6.0 – 6.0 – 5.6, 6+). Co-owned KSTE “Talk 650,” which was a collective +.7 via three consecutive sweeps without a loss (2.3 – 2.6 – 3.0- 3.0, 6+), falters by six-tenths (2.4, flat at #13).

After doubling (+.8) its 6+-share since August (.8 – 1.2 – 1.5 – 1.6, 6+), Entercom’s KIFM-AM surrenders six-tenths in December (1.0, #19 to #22, 6+). Just before this particular streak, “ESPN Radio 1320” lost 50% of its 6+-share (-.8) in three straight decreases (1.6 – 1.4 – 1.1 – .8, 6+). For the third sweep in succession, Bonneville’s KHTK “Sports 1140” is without an increase for an overall loss of four-tenths (1.3, 1.3 – 1.2 – .9, #21 to #25, 6+).

Even though Capital Public Radio news/talk KXJZ tacks on one-half share to November’s +1.1 and is without a loss for the fifth straight time for an overall +2.4 since July (4.5 – 5.1 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 6.4 – 6.9, 6+), it remains at #3. Moreover, this (6.9) is the highest 6+-stat in its PPM-history. Stable at #26, Northern California Public Broadcasting’s KQEI gains one-tenth (.6 – .7, 6+).

Sacramento Music Formats – Rebounding in a huge way from November’s four-tenths’ loss, Entercom adult contemporary KYMX “Mix 96 – Today’s Hits/Yesterday’s Favorites” dials up a +2.6 (6.2 – 8.8, 6+) and advances from fourth to first. This time last year, “Mix 96” recorded an 8.8 (December 2017). Despite picking up one-tenth (8.1 – 8.2, 6+), co-owned KSEG backslides from first to second; “96.9 The Eagle – Sacramento’s Classic Rock” had been on top the past 10 months. A cumulative -1.6 in October and November (9.7 – 9.2 – 8.1, 6+), KSEG had its lowest 6+-share (8.1) since April’s 8.0. “The Eagle” was +1.0 (May); +.9 (June); -.9 (July); +.6 (September); -.5 (October); and -1.1 (November). California’s Capital City has one less country challenger as of early-November (2018). That’s when iHeartMedia transitioned KBEB “92.5 The Bull – #1 for New Country” to adult contemporary “92.5 The Breeze” (2.5 – 2.4, #14 to #13, 6+); KBEB had been up two-tenths in consecutive sweeps (2.1 – 2.3 – 2.5, September-October-November, 6+). Remaining in the country format are Bonneville’s KNCI “New Country 105.1” (steady at #5, 6+) and Entravision Communications-owned KNTY “101.9 The Wolf” (2.0 – 2.3, +.3, #17 to #15, 6+ ). The combined +1.5 by “New Country” in three straight gains (4.2 – 4.3 – 5.1 – 5.7, September-October-November-December, 6+) obliterates its combined -.9 in August and September (5.1 – 4.4 – 4.2, 6+). Meanwhile, this (2.3) is the best 6+-stat for “The Wolf” since June 2018’s 2.5. With a one-half share increase to 1.6 (6+), Capital Public Radio classical KXPR erases in its entirety October and November’s collective -.5 (1.6 – 1.3 – 1.1, 6+) and enters the top twenty at #18. A combined -.8 via three down or flat months in succession (4.2 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 3.4, 6+), Entercom-owned KKDO “Alt 94.7 – Sacramento’s Alternative” picks up two-tenths to 3.6 (6+) and returns to the top ten (#12 to #10); November’s 3.4 was its lowest 6+-share since May (3.4, as well). When KUDL gained six-tenths in November, it took the Entercom CHR to 5.0, its best 6+-showing since May’s 5.6. In December though, “106.5 The End” spirals by nine-tenths (4.1, sixth to eighth, 6+). After being within 2.2 – 2.9 range the past 13 sweeps, Entravision Communications rhythmic CHR KHHM “Hot 103.5” forfeits six-tenths to 1.9 (#14 to #17, 6+).

Pittsburgh

Spoken-Word Formats – Trending 4.6 – 4.5 – 4.7 (October-November-December, 6+), Entercom news/talk KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020” climbs from eighth to seventh with its best 6+-stat (4.7) since February 2018’s 5.3.

After picking up three-tenths in October, co-owned sports talk KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan” regresses by a collective nine-tenths in November and December (6.4 – 5.7 – 5.5, 6+) yet advances from sixth to fifth. “The Fan” was +2.0 in April (5.8 – 7.8, 6+); -2.0 in three straight May – June – July declines (7.8 – 7.4 – 6.5 – 5.8, 6+); +1.4 in August (5.8 – 7.2, 6+); and -1.1 in September. Having posted either a .1 (6+) or a .2 (6+) in each of the previous 19 ratings periods, iHeartMedia sports talk WBGG “970 AM – ESPN Pittsburgh” is up one-tenth to .3 (6+) and stays at #23.

An increase of four-tenths by Essential Public Media news/talk WESA takes “90.5 Pittsburgh’s NPR Station” from #13 to #11 (3.2 – 3.6, 6+).

Pittsburgh Music Formats – The January 2018 through November 2018 (6+) high/low range for Steel City Media adult hits WRRK was 7.9/7.0, but “96.9 Bob FM – We Play Anything” follows November’s one-half share loss with a +1.7 to 8.7 (third to second, 6+). “Bob” has its best 6+-performance in exactly one year (9.0, December 2017). Even though it is an overall +2.4 as the result of four straight positive spikes (5.3 – 5.6 – 6.3 – 6.8 – 7.7, 6+), Renda Broadcasting adult contemporary WSHH “Wish 99.7” remains at #4 with its highest 6+-stat since 10.4 in “Holiday” 2017. At the same time that Forever Media’s WPKL “Oldies Radio – Pickle 99.3” more than doubles its 6+-share and enters the top twenty (.5 – 1.1, +.6, #20, 6+), co-owned country WOGG “Froggy 94.9” falters by one-half share (1.9 – 1.4, #14 to #16, 6+). Elsewhere in the country format, Entercom-owned WDSY “Y-108” Pittsburgh’s Country” relinquishes four-tenths in consecutive sweeps (4.8 – 4.4 – 4.0, -.4, flat at #9, 6+); iHeartMedia’s WPGB “Big 104.7 – Pittsburgh’s #1 For New Country” has a four-tenths decrease as well (3.7 – 3.3, #11 to #12, 6+); and WOGG cluster-mate and fellow “Froggy,” WOGI, is up two-tenths (1.0 – 1.2, #20 to #18, 6+). Stuck on 9.5 (6+) in October and November, after October’s loss of seven-tenths, iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWSW “94.5 – 3WS” gains two-tenths to 9.7 (6+) and is on top for the 22^nd consecutive ratings period. Following 11 successive sweeps in the runner-up slot, co-owned rocker WDVE drops to third. Its December loss of one-half share to 8.2 (6+) curtails three straight increases for a +1.0 (7.7 – 8.0 – 8.3 – 8.7, 6+); WDVE was off eight-tenths in August. Co-owned alternative WXDX “105.9 The X” sputters by six-tenths to 4.3 (seventh to eighth, 6+) as the flagship of the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins suspends three straight gains that netted nine-tenths (4.0 – 4.3 – 4.7 – 4.9, 6+).

Salt Lake City

Spoken-Word Formats – Stabilizing after October’s +2.4 and November’s -1.8 with a more modest December loss of two-tenths (5.4 – 5.2, 6+), Bonneville’s KSL progresses from fifth to fourth. November’s 7.2 is its highest 6+-share since April’s 8.1. “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” had a one-month stay (October) at #1; prior to that, the last time KSL reached #1 was in April. Like KSL, iHeartMedia’s KNRS is off two-tenths in December (4.9 – 4.7, 6+) but proceeds from seventh to sixth. “Talk Radio 105.9 – Listen And You’ll Know” was a combined +1.0 in October and November (3.9 – 4.7 – 4.9, 6+) and had its strongest 6+-showing (4.9) since March 2017’s 5.6.

The August 2018 – December 2018 topline for Broadway Media-owned KALL is 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.8 (6+), with “ESPN 700 – Utah’s #1 Sports Talk” cracking the top twenty (#21 to #20). Immediately in advance of that, KALL was an overall +.5 via four consecutive positive or flat moves (1.4 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.9 – 1.9, 6+).

After picking up one-tenth in November, University of Utah news/talk KUER forfeits two-tenths (2.8 – 2.6, #13 to #14, 6+); KUER was a collective -.8 in September and October (3.5 – 3.0 – 2.7, 6+).

Salt Lake City Music Formats – No station in the 36 PPM-markets we’ve analyzed thus far has made a more dramatic (6+) November 2018 – December increase (+7.0) or has a greater December 2018 (6+) AQH share (12.7) than Bonneville adult contemporary KSFI, which marches from third to first. Tied for the lead in August, “FM 100.3 – Better Music/Better Work Day” logged a 13.6 (6+) in December 2017. Its format rival – Cumulus Media adult contemporary KBEE “B-98.7 Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites” – slumps by six-tenths to 3.9 (ninth to tenth, 6+), thus halting three straight gains that netted a +1.8 (2.7 – 3.6 – 4.3 – 4.5, 6+). The rollercoaster ride continues for iHeartMedia-owned classic hits-oldies KODJ “94.1 Salt Lake’s Greatest Hits,” which was -1.1 (October); +1.5 (November); and now -1.4 in December (7.1 – 5.7, #1 to #2, 6+). Previously in calendar year 2018, KODJ held sole possession of the top spot or was tied for the lead in June, July, August, and September. Its gain of three-tenths in September curtailed three straight decreases that accounted for a one-half share loss (6.9 – 6.8 – 6.7 – 6.4, 6+). Nearly erasing in its entirety October and November’s collective -.8 (4.7 – 4.0 – 3.9, 6+), iHeartMedia hot AC KJMY “My 99.5” posts a gain of seven-tenths to 4.6 (6+) and enters the top ten (#11 to #7). As a result, it bypasses Capital Broadcasting’s similarly-programmed KBZN “Now 97.9 – Today’s Best Music” (5.4 – 4.5, -.9, fifth to eighth, 6+). Off eight-tenths (2.4 – 1.6, 6+) Brigham Young University’s KBYU “Classical 89” fades from the top twenty (#18 to #22). Flat at #12, Cumulus Media country KUBL “K-Bull 93” is an overall -2.8 in five consecutive decreases (5.9 – 5.7 – 4.2 – 4.0 – 3.8 – 3.1, 6+). As is the case with “K-Bull,” co-owned KBER “Utah’s Rock Station” falters by seven-tenths in December (2.6 – 1.9, #14 to #19, 6+). On the heels of recording one-half share October – November gains, independent KSOP-FM “Z-104 Utah’s #1 Country” (4.2 – 4.7 – 4.2, eighth to ninth, 6+) and Broadway Media-owned KXRK “X-96 Utah’s Original Alternative” (3.8 – 4.3 – 3.8, #10 to #11, 6+) each regress by one-half share in December.

Las Vegas

Spoken-Word Formats – This marks the fourth occasion in the last five sweeps – and third time in succession -that Entercom’s KXNT posts a 1.9 (1.9 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.9, #21 to #20, 6+). Prior to gaining two-tenths in August, “News Talk Radio 840” had been down or flat the previous three ratings periods for a net loss of four-tenths (2.1 – 2.0 – 1.7 – 1.7, 6+). Meanwhile, after recording a 1.1 (6+) four times in the last seven survey periods (1.1 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.0 – 1.3 – 1.1, 6+), Beasley Media Group news/talk KDWN “AM 720 Where Las Vegas Comes to Talk” drops one-tenth to 1.0 (6+) and remains at #25.

Two-tenths behind KDWN is Lotus Communications sports talk KWWN “ESPN Radio 1100,” which had doubled (+.5) its 6+ share through four up or flat trends (.5 – .6 – .9 – .9 – 1.0, 6+), but falters by two-tenths to .8 (#25 to #26).

An overall +1.3 in six consecutive upticks (2.0 – 2.4 – 2.6 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 3.2 – 3.3, 6+), Nevada Public Radio’s KNPR is off two-tenths in December and departs the top ten (3.1, #10 to #13, 6+).

Las Vegas Music Formats – Not only is iHeartMedia adult contemporary KSNE on top for the fourth month in a row, “Sunny 106.5 Better Music for a Better Workday” posts a +.8 to 9.1, its best 6+-stat since 12.5 in “Holiday” 2017. A year ago, KSNE logged a 10.6 (December 2017, 6+). In calendar year 2018, it has been #1 in March, May, June, July, September, October, November, and December. Erasing November’s six-tenths’ loss with a December gain of the same magnitude, Entercom rhythmic hot AC KXQQ climbs from ninth to seventh (4.2, 6+). Entering the December 2018 sweep, “Q-100.5” was a collective -1.3 in three losses in succession (4.9 – 4.5 – 4.2 – 3.6, 6+). It is a similar story for co-owned hot AC KMXB “Mix 94.1,” which flips November’s -.5 into a December +.6 (5.4 – 6.0, fourth to third, 6+); November’s 5.4 is its lowest 6+-showing since February (5.4, as well). Flat at #15, Beasley Media Group’s similarly formatted KVGS “Star 107.9” is off three-tenths (3.0 – 2.7, 6+). Even though it is without a loss in six straight months for an overall +1.8 (3.7 – 3.9 – 4.5 – 4.9 – 5.0 – 5.5 – 5.5, 6+), Lotus Communications’ KXPT “97.1 The Point – #1 For Classic Rock” backslides from third to fourth; 5.5 is its best 6+-performance in more than two years (5.9, October 2016). Down a combined -1.5 in October and November, Beasley Media Group urban-rhythmic oldies KOAS “Old School 105.7” regains three-tenths in December (4.3 – 4.6, flat at #6, 6+). As it entered the October ratings period, “Old School 105.7” was a cumulative +1.7 through five straight gains (4.1 – 4.3 – 4.7 – 4.9 – 5.1 – 5.8, 6+).

Orlando

Spoken-Word Formats – As a result of five consecutive increases, Cox Media Group news/talk WDBO-FM was an overall +1.9 (3.3 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 4.1 – 5.1 – 5.2, 6+), but “News 96.5” surrenders seven-tenths in December (4.5, eighth to tenth, 6+). November’s 5.2 is its best 6+-performance in more than a year (6.1, September 2017). Meanwhile, iHeartMedia news/talk WTKS “Real Radio 104.1 – We Say What We Want” has lost a collective full-share in four declines in succession (4.7 – 4.6 – 4.5 – 3.9 – 3.7, 6+) and continues at #11. Its +1.0 in August interrupted three straight decreases that resulted in a -1.8 (5.5 – 5.3 – 4.0 – 3.7, 6+). Having nearly doubled (+1.2) its 6+-share as the result of four successive sweeps without a loss (1.5 – 1.5 – 1.9 – 2.1 – 2.7, 6+), news/talk cluster-mate WFLF is now off a combined one-half share in November and December (2.7 – 2.4 – 2.2, #14 to #15, 6+).

Precisely doubling (+.7) its 6+-share via three straight up or flat moves (.7 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.4, 6+), Cox Media Group sports talk WDBO-AM “ESPN 580 Orlando” forfeits eight-tenths (.6, #17 to #23, 6+). It is now tied with iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WYGM “FM 96.9 The Game – Orlando’s Sports Leader,” which has lost roughly half (-.7) of its 6+ AQH share in three consecutive dips (1.3 – 1.1 – .9 – .6, #21 to #23, 6+).

Repeating at #12, Community Communications’ news/talk WMFE “90.7 Public Radio for Central Florida” is in an August 2018 – December 2018 up/down pattern of 3.5 – 4.0 – 3.3 – 3.6 – 3.5 (6+).

Orlando Music Formats – Roaring back from October and November’s collective -.7 (6.5 – 6.0 – 5.8, 6+) with a robust +4.0, iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMGF zooms from sixth to first with its strongest 6+-stat (9.8) since “Holiday” 2017’s 15.9. This time last year, “Magic 107.7” registered a 12.0 (December 2017, 6+). On top the past 11 ratings periods, its Spanish tropical sibling – WRUM “Rumba 100” – stumbles by six-tenths to 8.3 and segues to #2. WRUM’s +.8 in December halted at three a consecutive string of downturns that resulted in an overall -3.5 (11.6 – 10.1 – 8.2 – 8.1, 6+). April 2017’s 12.8 is the best-ever 6+-share in the station’s PPM-history. The last time “Rumba” wasn’t #1 was “Holiday” 2017 when “Magic” set the pace. Spiraling by nine-tenths is co-owned CHR WXXL (8.2 – 7.3, second to third, 6+). A one-half share September increase by “XL-106.7 Orlando’s #1 Hit Music Station” halted three downward moves in a row that accounted for a collective -1.7 (8.9 – 8.4 – 7.8 – 7.2, 6+). At the same time that Cox Media Group-owned WMMO “98.9 Orlando’s Classic Hits” erases November’s increase of seven-tenths with a December loss of eight-tenths (7.1 – 6.3, third to fifth, 6+), its internet “stream” debuts with a .7 (#22, 6+). November 2018’s 7.1 is WMMO’s highest 6+-stat since November 2017’s 8.1. The station was locked on 6.6 (6+) in July, August, and September, before dropping to 6.4 (6+) in October. A cumulative -1.3 via three down or flat moves in a row (7.1 – 6.4 – 6.4 – 5.8, fifth to sixth, 6+), Entercom classic hits-oldies WOCL “105-9 Sunny FM – We Own The ‘80s” has its lowest 6+-stat (5.8) since July 2018’s 5.4. An overall -.7 as a result of being without an increase for the fifth consecutive sweep (3.4 – 3.2 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.7, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WJRR “101.1 Orlando’s Rock Station” continues at #13. Two positive streaks involving Orland stations come to a close in December 2018. While it stays at #4, Cox Media Group urban AC WCFB “Star 94.5 – Orlando’s Only R&B,” which was an overall +1.4 in five straight sweeps without a loss (5.5 – 6.0 – 6.3 – 6.3 – 6.8 – 6.9, 6+), forfeits four-tenths to 6.5 (6+). A modest +.2, owing to three consecutive up or flat moves (5.2 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.4, 6+), Entercom hot AC WOMX “Mix 105.1” slumps three-tenths to 5.1 but carries on at #7.

Cincinnati

Spoken-Word Formats – After six consecutive months at #1 iHeartMedia news/talk WLW shifts to #2 (10.0 – 9.6, -.4, 6+). Some recent fluctuations for the flagship of MLB’s Reds and NFL’s Bengals include a combined +2.0 (January and February); -1.0 (March); +1.6 (April); -1.2 (May); -1.4 (September); +1.7 (October); and -.8 (November). October’s 10.8 was its highest 6+-share in more than two years (10.8, as well, in June 2016). Co-owned WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station in Cincinnati” falters by three-tenths and departs the top ten (3.6 – 3.3, #10 to #11, 6+). July’s increase of eight-tenths halted four straight monthly reports without an increase for a collective -1.0 (3.8 – 3.7 – 3.3 – 3.0 – 2.8, 6+).

Anchored at #17, sports talk sibling WCKY “Cincinnati’s ESPN 1530” surrenders four-tenths (1.4 – 1.0, 6+); 1.4 (October and November) is its best 6+-stat since May (1.4, as well).

An overall -.7 via four successive sweeps without an increase (3.5 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 3.1 – 2.8, 6+), Cincinnati Public Radio news/talk WVXU dips from #12 to #13.

Cincinnati Music Formats – Owing to a +3.1 (5.2 – 8.3, 6+), Cumulus Media adult contemporary WRRM progresses from fifth to third; “Warm 98.5” posted a 7.5 (6+) in December 2017. By putting together four straight gains for an overall +1.3 (8.6 – 9.1 – 9.2 – 9.6 – 9.9, 6+), co-owned classic hits-oldies WGRR “103.5 Cincinnati’s Greatest Hits” marches from second to first with its strongest 6+-stat (9.9) since March 2018’s 10.4. The 1.1 (6+) that Educational Community Radio’s WOBO “The Station With Something For Everyone” logged in November dwindles by nine-tenths to .2 (#24, 6+). Owing to three straight up or flat monthlies, Hubbard country WUBE was +1.0 (7.9 – 8.3 – 8.9 – 8.9, 6+), but “B-105” returns 80% of that increase in December (8.1, -.8, third to fourth, 6+). November’s 8.9 is the strongest 6+-stat for “B-105” in more than two years (8.9, as well, August 2016). Elsewhere in the market’s country format, Cumulus Media’s WNNF “94.1 Nash-FM” is trending (1.9 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 1.6, flat at 16, 6+), while WUBE cluster-mate WYGY “97.3 The Wolf” drops one-tenth (1.0 – .9, unchanged at #18, 6+). In each sweep between March 2018 and October 2018, “The Wolf” recorded either a .8 (6+) or a .9 (6+). Hubbard hot AC WKRQ “Q-102 Cincinnati’s Hit Music” is down or flat for the fourth successive time for a collective -1.9 (7.9 – 7.4 – 6.6 – 6.6 – 6.0, fourth to fifth, 6+). Immediately after gaining seven-tenths in November, iHeartMedia CHR WKFS “Kiss 107.1 Cincinnati’s #1 Hit Music Station” relinquishes that increase in its entirety (4.1 – 3.4, ninth to tenth, 6+). Prior to November’s +.7, “Kiss” recorded six straight down or flat sweeps that resulted in an overall -1.5 (4.9 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.4, 6+). In August, WDBZ registered a .9 (6+) to finish at #20, but the Radio One urban-rhythmic oldies outlet is unlisted for the fourth month in a row.

Cleveland

Spoken-Word Formats –An overall -1.6 in November and December (6.8 – 6.3 – 5.2, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WTAM “1100 Cleveland’s News Radio” drops from fifth to eighth. An October increase of eight-tenths halted four successive sweeps without an increase for a collective -.6 (6.6 – 6.5 – 6.4 – 6.0 – 6.0, 6+).

Following five successive improvements that netted a +2.0 (3.4 – 3.5 – 3.8 – 4.7 – 5.1 – 5.4, 6+), Entercom’s WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” returns four-tenths (5.0, ninth to tenth, 6+). That positive streak directly followed a combined -1.8 in three straight (March through June) setbacks (5.2 – 4.4 – 4.2 – 3.4, 6+).

In back-to-back sweeps (November and December), Ideastream-owned news/talk outlet WCPN gains two-tenths (2.8 – 3.0 – 3.2, #13 to #14, 6+); WCPN was off four-tenths in October.

Cleveland Music Formats – As a result of three negative moves in a row, Entercom adult contemporary WDOK was down eight-tenths (6.4- 6.2 – 6.0 – 5.6, 6+), but “Cleveland’s Star 102” dials up a +2.6 to 8.2 (6+) and zooms from eighth to second. In December 2017, “Star” notched a 7.2 (6+). Co-owned WNCX “98.5 Cleveland’s Classic Rock,” which was an overall -2.1 (8.4 – 6.9 – 6.8 – 6.3, 6+) via three straight dips, gains two-tenths to 6.5 (fifth to sixth, 6+). November’s 6.3 is its lowest 6+-stat since April’s 6.0. A gain of seven-tenths (6.2 – 6.9, 6+) elevates iHeartMedia adult hits WHLK “106.5 The Lake – We Play Anything” from seventh to fourth. After being a collective +2.8 in three straight increases (6.0 – 6.5 – 7.5 – 8.8, 6+), WZAK returns four-tenths to 8.4 (6+); nonetheless, the Radio One urban AC repeats at #1. Prior to that streak, WZAK lost roughly 40% (-4.1) of its 6+ AQH share in five straight March 2018 through August 2018 down or flat trends (10.1 – 9.6 – 8.1 – 6.8 – 6.8 – 6.0, 6+). Owing to four consecutive decreases (8.1 – 7.2 – 6.8 – 6.5 – 5.7, fourth to seventh, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WGAR “99.5 Cleveland’s #1 For New Country” is a collective -2.4.

Kansas City

Spoken-Word Formats – This proves to be a particularly tough sweep for Entercom news/talk KMBZ-FM “98.1 News-Traffic-Weather” (5.1 – 4.0, -1.1, #4 to #11, 6+) and co-owned KMBZ-AM “Talk 980” (2.6 – 1.8, -.8, #19 to #20, 6+). KMBZ-FM was a combined +.7 (4.4 – 4.7 – 5.1, 6+) in October and November, while KMBZ-AM was up four-tenths in October. Flat at #23, Cumulus Media’s KCMO-AM “Talk Radio 710 AM” regains the one-tenth it lost in November (.6 – .7, 6+).

After more than doubling (+2.2) its 6+-share in six straight positive spikes (2.0 – 2.1 – 2.4 – 2.6 – 2.8 – 4.0 – 4.2, Union Broadcasting’s WHB falters by four-tenths to 3.8 (6+) and departs the top ten (#9 to #12). “Sports Radio 810” was -.9 in February; +.9 in March; an overall -2.0 in April and May (4.0 – 2.9 – 2.0, 6+); and +1.2 in October. Even though it erases October’s +.4 with a collective -.4 in November and December (3.5 – 3.2 – 3.1, -.3, 6+), Entercom’s KCSP “610 Sports Radio” climbs from #17 to #16.

Tacking on three-tenths to November’s +.5 (3.0 – 3.5 – 3.8, 6+), University of Missouri news/talk KCUR improves from #14 to #12.

Kansas City Music Formats – An overall -.9 through six straight April 2018 through October 2018 sweeps without an increase (4.9 – 4.8 – 4.6 – 4.6 – 4.6 – 4.3 – 4.0, 6+), Entercom’s WDAF “106.5 The Wolf” has answered with a cumulative +1.3 in November and December (4.0 – 4.3 – 5.3, seventh to fourth, 6+). This is the highest 6+-share for “The Wolf” since January 2018 (5.3, as well). Cross-town rival, Steel City Media’s KBEQ “Q-104 New Hit Country,” is a combined -1.6 in three straight downturns (5.6 – 4.4 – 4.3 – 3.7, 6+), drifting from #7 to #14. Also in the format, KBEQ cluster-mate KFKF “Country 94.1” is a combined -2.1 as a result of four consecutive sweeps without an increase (6.2 – 5.3 – 4.5 – 4.1 – 4.1, #11 to #9, 6+). Reaching the four-share level (6+) for the first time since February’s 4.0, Cumulus Media urban AC KMJK “Magic 107.3 – Kansas City’s Best Mix of R&B” is an overall +1.7 via three straight upticks (2.7 – 2.8 – 3.4 – 4.4, 6+), rocketing into the top ten (#15 to #8). In eight successive March through November declines (8.1 – 7.7 – 7.2 – 7.1 – 6.8 – 6.4 – 6.3 – 5.4 – 5.0, 6+), classic hits-oldies sibling KCMO-FM was a combined -3.1, but “94.9 Kansas City’s Greatest Hits” picks up one-tenth in December to 5.1 (sixth to fifth, 6+). KCMO-FM was #1 in March 2018, April, and May. Wiping away November’s one-half share decrease with a December gain of nine-tenths (4.7 – 4.2 – 5.1, ninth to fifth 6+), Steel City Media adult contemporary KCKC “KC-102.1 Today’s Best Variety” has its best 6+ showing (5.1) since January 2018’s 5.2. On the heels of November’s one-half share loss, Entercom-owned KQRC “98.9 The Rock” erodes by another nine-tenths (7.0 – 6.1, flat at #2, 6+). Its one-half share loss in November halted three straight increases that netted a +2.0 (5.5 – 6.5 – 7.3 – 7.5, 6+). Notwithstanding that it falters by seven-tenths to 9.0 (6+), thus pulling the plug on six straight sweeps without a loss for an overall +2.7 (7.0 – 7.2 – 7.2 – 7.8 – 8.8 – 9.6 – 9.7, 6+), Cumulus Media’s KCFX “101 The Fox – Kansas City’s Classic Rock Station” is #1 for the seventh time in a row. November’s 9.7 is the highest 6+-stat for the Kansas City Chiefs’ flagship since July 2017’s 10.3. Unchanged at #18, University of Northwestern St. Paul contemporary Christian KJNW “Life 88.5” regresses by eight-tenths to 1.9 (6+), thus interrupting its July 2018 through November 2018 topline of 2.4 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 2.4 – 2.7 (6+). The one-half share increase that Steel City Media CHR KMXV “Mix 93.3” collected in October and November (4.6 – 5.0 – 5.1, 6+) is erased with a December loss of six-tenths (4.5, fourth to seventh, 6+).

Columbus

Spoken-Word Formats – An overall +.9 in three straight positive spikes (5.4 – 5.5 – 6.1 – 6.3, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WTVN “News Radio 610” returns two-tenths (6.1, fourth to sixth, 6+).

Ever since reappearing in print, RadiOhio sports talk outlet – and flagship of the NHL’s Columbus Blue Jackets – WBNS-FM “Sports Radio 97.1 The Fan” has been +1.1 (October); -.4 (November); and now +1.0 (6.3 – 7.3, fourth to third, 6+). Recapturing the three-tenths it lost in November (.9 – .6 – .9, 6+), iHeartMedia sports talk WXZX “105.7 The Zone” continues at #18.

The August 2018 through December 2018 up/down pattern of Ohio State University news/talk WOSU is 4.5 – 4.6 – 3.5 – 4.0 – 3.6 (eighth to ninth, 6+). Immediately prior to the October sweep, WOSU had a net gain of seven-tenths via three straight up or flat monthlies (3.9 – 3.9 – 4.5 – 4.6, 6+).

Columbus Music Formats – Tacking on a +1.4 to November’s +.4 (6.3 – 7.7, 6+), Saga Communications adult contemporary WSNY “Sunny 95” jumps from fourth to second with its best 6+-showing since “Holiday” 2017’s 11.0. A combined +1.2 in four straight increases (2.7 – 2.8 – 3.0 – 3.8 – 3.9, 6+), Radio One’s WCKX “Power 107.5” inches up from ninth to eighth. An uptick of eight-tenths to 5.8 (steady at #7, 6+) by iHeartMedia adult hits WODC “93.3 The Bus – We Play Anything” applies the brakes to three consecutive dips that generated an overall -1.7 (6.7 – 6.4 – 5.3 – 5.0, 6+). That particular streak immediately followed four consecutive improvements that netted a +1.6 (5.1 – 5.6 – 5.7 – 5.9 – 6.7, 6+). Co-owned WCOL is #1 for the 12^th sweep in a row and has been in double-digits (6+) each ratings period since June 2017. On the flipside though, “92.3 Columbus’ #1 For New Country” is a collective -3.6 through five straight setbacks (16.3 – 15.1 – 15.0 – 14.5 – 13.0 – 12.7, 6+). When WCOL was -1.2 in August, it concluded five consecutive increases for an overall +4.0 (12.3 – 13.4 – 14.4 – 14.5 – 15.7 – 16.3, 6+). Among the major fluctuations for “92.3 Columbus’ #1 For New Country” in calendar year 2018 are +3.1 (January); -1.7 (February); +1.1 (March); +1.0 (April); +1.2 (June); +.6 (July); 1.2 (August); -.5 (October); and -1.5 (November). A -1.3 (3.8 – 2.5, #9 to #11, 6+) takes One Connection Media Group contemporary Christian WCVO “Uplifting & Encouraging 104.9 The River” below a three-share (6+) for the first time since October 2018’s 2.3. Off six-tenths (2.8 – 2.2, #12 to #13, 6+), Saga Communications hot AC WVMX “Mix 107.9” has its weakest 6+-showing since “Holiday” 2017 (2.2, as well). After posting gains of six-tenths in October and November (6.5 – 7.1 – 7.7, 6+), co-owned WLVQ “Q-FM 96 – Iconic Rock” surrenders one-half share (7.2, second to fourth, 6+). November’s 7.7 is its highest 6+-stat since January 2017’s 7.9. Following four up or flat trends in a row that accounted for a +1.1 (2.4 – 2.6 – 2.6 – 3.3 – 3.5, 6+), iHeartMedia urban contemporary WZCB “106.7 The Beat” returns two-tenths to 3.3 (6+) but improves from #11 to #10.

Thursday, January 3, 2019

TALKERS | January 3, 2019

iHeartMedia Files November Financial Report; Net Income Up 3.9%. The most recent Monthly Operating Report from iHeartMedia was filed with the Securities Exchange Commission for the month of November. iHM has been releasing the reports since April 2018 as required by the bankruptcy court as it makes its way through Chapter 11 reorganization. Although revenue dipped 1.6% to $343.7 million compared to October, iHeartMedia’s net income was up 3.9% to $104.2 million. Operating income also rose from $104.8 million in October to $107.1 million in November. The company paid $12.8 million to outside professionals assisting with the reorganization.

Michael Savage Says Threats Force Move. A report by both the Washington Times and FOX News, says that talk radio personality Michael Savage has had to move to an undisclosed location due to a particularly violent threat against him that authorities are taking seriously. Savage tells the Times that he’s received threats in the past and has largely ignored them, but this threat was different. “[G]iven the violent, vile times we are living in and the specific nature of this threat, both I and some serious agencies are taking this threat very seriously.” An email was sent to a restaurant Savage frequents demanding that it stop serving him. It said, in part, “I DEMAND THAT YOU REFUSE TO ALLOW MICHAEL … IN YOUR F***ING RESTAURANT AGAIN. HE IS A RACIST WHITE SUPREMACIST PIECE OF S**T.”

WTIC-AM, Hartford’s Jim Vicevich Profiled in Hartford Courant. Late morning talk show host Jim Vicevich is the subject of a profile piece in the Hartford Courant. The piece focuses on Vicevich’s daily struggles with the effects of lupus and how he’s able to do his daily “Sound Off Connecticut” program on Entercom’s WTIC-AM, Hartford every day. The piece explains how Vicevich preps for his show and gets to work each day with the help of fiancé Jane Benson. See it here.

Cox Media Group’s Jamie Dupree Marks 30 Years with the Company. Longtime news radio pro Jamie Dupree is well known across the radio industry not only for his years of professionalism covering DC politics, but as well for the attention he’s received from his struggle with a rare neurological disorder called tongue protrusion dystonia – and how Cox Media Group has helped him with his efforts to work around his inability to speak well and still report the news. Last summer, listeners heard Washington, DC-based Dupree’s voice on Cox stations again thanks to a text-to-speech app that uses old recordings of him to create new news reports. CMG’s WHIO, Dayton reports on that and on Dupree’s celebrating 30 years with Cox. Read it here.

Patel Appointed EVP of SmartAudio Intelligence Insights for iHeartMedia. Research pro Hetal Patel is making a return to iHeartMedia as the new EVP SmartAudio Intelligence Insights. Previously, she served with the company for four years, rising to vice president of research, insights & analytics. Most recently, she was head of sales research & insights for Vox Media. In this new role with iHM, Patel will lead the SmartAudio Intelligence Insights team to “create research and insights that shape iHeartMedia’s value proposition. Her responsibilities will include providing critical consumer insights, market intelligence and industry trends to iHeartMedia teams, markets and executives by leveraging expertise in areas such as audience analysis, advertising sales metrics and media and digital consumer research. In addition, Patel will work closely with iHeartMedia’s partners on the development of next-generation analytics, techniques and products including artificial intelligence, machine learning, sentiment analysis and more. She says, “It really is the golden period of audio. I am thrilled to be returning to iHeartMedia where data and consumer are genuinely front and center, which means working on truly disruptive and future ready research initiatives designed to address the client and marketplace needs. It’s truly humbling and an honor to be a story teller and voice for iHeartMedia.”

‘TalkErie.com’ Debuts with SRN and Local Talk Programs. After stunting over the holidays with readings of the U.S. Constitution, the Inspiration Time, Inc.-owned trio of signals in the Erie, Pennsylvania market officially becomes a news/talk outlet as “TalkErie.com.” Two Erie-licensed translators W277DS at 103.3 FM and W290BI at 105.9 FM are fed by WZTE-AM, North East, Pennsylvania. Local host Joel Natalie is star of the afternoon drive show. The rest of the lineup consists of Salem Radio Network programs including: Hugh Hewitt, Mike Gallagher, Dennis Prager, Mike Elder, Eric Metaxas, and Joe Walsh. The station says, “We are Erie, Pennsylvania’s brand-new twin FM talker at 103.3 and 105.9. Erie News Talk Radio at its finest, with national news twice an hour 24/7 and local news daytime weekdays, you’ll be informed and challenged every minute you spend with TalkErie.com.”

Marc Ryan Named Midday Host at Entercom’s ‘ESPN Upstate.’ Sports talk pro Marc Ryan announces he’s accepted a position with Entercom’s sports talk “ESPN Upstate” – WORD-AM/WYRD-AM/W246CV/W249DL – in Greenville-Spartanburg, South Carolina. There he’ll host the 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm show and serve as assistant program director. Ryan has been working on air at the company’s KILT-AM, Houston. It’s unclear what the status is of current 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm team “G-Mack & Lonzo” at “ESPN Upstate.”

TALKERS News Notes. Just as the FCC is shutting down – mostly – due to the stalemate over funding the U.S.-Mexico border wall, the country has a complete Commission for the first time in a while. Yesterday, the Senate confirmed Democratic nominee Geoffrey Starks and confirmed Republican Commissioner Brendan Carr for a full term. Commissioners are not affected by the shutdown since their salaries come from a different source…..SiriusXM extends the employment of president and chief content officer Scott Greenstein, who gets a new deal that will last through May of 2022. Greenstein will earn $1.6 million per year in base salary with the opportunity to earn a bonus of as much as 150% of his salary based on various incentives…..NBC Sports Radio and Westwood One are launching “The Daily Line,” a new, weekday afternoon drive show, that focuses on sports betting. It’s being hosted by Michael Jenkins of NBC Sports Washington and 10-year sports radio pro Tim Murray. The program airs live from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm ET. It will be simulcast on television across multiple NBC Sports Regional Networks…..CBS Television’s daytime program “The Talk” names Carrie Ann Inaba a full-time host on the show. She’s been serving as a guest host for the past two seasons. Her arrival comes on the heels of Julie Chen’s exit from the program in the aftermath of husband and former CBS chief Les Moonves’ sexual harassment allegations…..Westwood One continues its coverage of the National Football League with live, radio play-by-play of the playoffs, beginning with this weekend’s Wild Card games. WWO is the official national radio partner of the NFL and will also air play-by-play of Super Bowl LIII…..Beasley Media Group’s sports talk WBZ-FM, Boston renews its deal with the NFL’s New England Patriots to continue serving as the flagship for game day broadcasts. The station has served in this role since it launched as a sports talk outlet in 2009.

WBZ-AM, Boston Traffic Reporter Joe Stapleton Dead at 55. Boston radio traffic reporter Joe Stapleton died unexpectedly on December 31 at the age of 55. WBZ station operations director Bill Flaherty says, “Joe was our overnight traffic reporter here at WBZ. He never walked through the door without a smile and friendly greeting for everyone he met.” During his career he worked on the highly rated “Maynard in the Morning” program on WBZ-AM in the 1980s. He appeared on rock WAAF, Boston’s “Hill-Man Morning Show” for many years as “Major Dick.” Stapleton also reported on traffic for WBZ-TV and WHDH-TV. A lover of films, Stapleton also appeared in a number of movies, including: “Spotlight,” “R.I.P.D.,” “Manchester by the Sea,” “Mystic River,” and “Edge of Darkness.”

Chicago Media Pro Robert Feder’s Wife Janet Loses Battle with Cancer. The staff of TALKERS magazine sends condolences to Chicago media writer Robert Feder and his family after the passing of his wife Janet G. Feder who died on December 31 after a battle with cancer. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

New Congress, Government Shutdown/Border Wall, Trump-Russia Investigation, 2020 Presidential Race, and the NFL Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/2). Today’s swearing in of the 116^thCongress and the Democrats’ takeover of control; the ongoing battle to fund President Trump’s U.S.-Mexico border wall and the government shutdown; the investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russia agents; the early entrants into the 2020 presidential campaign; and this weekend’s first round of the NFL playoffs were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Michael Harrison: Trump’s Impact on News/Talk Radio Unprecedented. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison states, “Donald Trump’s influence on the subject matter and tone of news/talk radio in America is greater in terms of one individual newsmaker’s impact than any other during the 29-years that the publication has been tracking content.” In his first weekly address of 2019 to the TALKERS editorial board earlier this morning (1/2), Harrison added, “…and the president’s influence is reflected on all aspects of spoken-word radio beyond traditional news/talk from sports talk, all-news, and specialty genres to pop culture personalities doing talk shows on music stations.” Stating, “We can expect more of the same in this new year and probably beyond,” Harrison compared Trump’s pop cultural impact on talk radio to the effect the Beatles had on top 40 radio in the early sixties “when the entire genre changed everything from playlists to imaging to accommodate a new attitude and a flood of new players during the height of the British Invasion.” Harrison advises broadcasters to keep a watchful eye on their core audiences during the year ahead pointing out, “The polarized nature of today’s target audiences can lull programmers into thinking the makeup of their P1s is etched in stone. However, the turbulent nature of the times coupled with the emotional investment on the part of listeners to the rapidly unfolding ‘reality show’ can undergo subtle changes or shift on a dime.” Harrison concluded, “2019 is going to be a great year for talk radio – especially if we stay alert and maximize the extraordinary raw material that these wild times are providing in creative and productive ways – keeping in mind our deeper responsibility to pursue truth over victory and vigilantly respect and defend the First Amendment.” Editorial Note: The original artwork accompanying this story below is titled “The Show Must Go On” by Bobbie Winston (a.k.a. La Femme Bobbíe). She is an award-winning American artist living and painting in Rio de Janeiro since 1988. She has a world-wide following that enjoys her highly identifiable style. She paints wildly abstract portraits, full human figures, and imaginative, surrealistic scenarios marked by dramatic features and bold, striking colors. Her perspective on the human condition is cosmic, inclusive and evolved. Bobbie Winston’s Facebook page and art gallery can be accessed at www.facebook.com/bobbiewinstonartist.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Atlanta CHR WWWQ tweaks its station name, leaving behind the “Q100” moniker for the more accurate “Q99.7.” Cumulus Media VP of CHR and rhythmic CHR Louie Diaz explains, “‘Q100’ has been one of the most successful top 40 radio stations in the country, but now is the right time to refresh and rebrand the station as ‘Q99.7’ for the current and new generation of listeners. Rebranding ‘Q100’ to ‘Q99.7’ reflects the simple fact that listeners find the station at 99.7 on the dial. Our transition from ‘Q100’ to ‘Q99.7’ is now complete.”…..Service Broadcasting – owner of “Dede in the Morning” flagship KKDA, Dallas “K104” – and syndication partner Compass Media Networks announce the continued expansion of the “DeDe in the Morning” franchise with the clearance of the program in Atlanta (on Core Radio Group’s WTBS “Mix 87.7”). KKDA director of operations Geo Cook says, “We are thrilled with our progress nationally and appreciative to now be heard in Atlanta. The launch of ‘DeDe’s Weekend Kickback’ is in response to our growing list of affiliates who want unique and compelling content for weekends, in addition to weekday mornings.”…..Bonneville’s adult contemporary KYMX, Sacramento “Mix 96” names Amanda Carroll and Darik Kristofer co-hosts of the its new morning drive program. Carroll has been hosting a syndicated program via Christian FM…..Former WHUD Hudson Valley, New York morning host and original WMCA Good Guy Ed Baer has died at age 82. Baer launched his radio career in New York in 1957. In 1986, he joined WHUD and worked there for 29 years.

December 2018 PPM Data – Round Two. December 2018 ratings information has been RE-RELEASED for Washington (D.C.), Boston, Miami, Detroit, Seattle, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Denver, Tampa, Baltimore, and St. Louis. Nielsen Audio’s December 2018 survey period covered November – December 5. 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.

Washington, DC Spoken-Word Formats – Without a loss from June through November for an overall +1.6 (3.5 – 3.7 – 4.5 – 4.5 – 5.0 – 5.1, 6+), Cumulus Media news/talk WMAL surrenders one-half share to 4.6 (fifth to sixth, 6+). November’s 5.1 represents its best 6+-stat in the PPM era.

Off a collective seven-tenths in four straight down or flat trends(3.7 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.3 – 3.0, 6+), Entercom sports talk WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” remains at #14 with its lowest 6+-stat (3.0) since March (2.4). The Washington Nationals’ flagship completely erased July’s -.5 with an August +.5 (3.7 – 3.2 – 3.7, 6+). While remaining flat at .9 (6+), Radio One’s similarly-formatted WTEM “980 The Team” departs the top twenty (#20 to #21).

After spending 11 straight ratings periods at #1, Hubbard all-news WTOP (off one-tenth) segues to the runner-up slot. Nonetheless, WTOP is within 9.3 – 9.9 range for the ninth successive month (9.6 – 9.7 – 9.5 – 9.3 – 9.4 – 9.4 – 9.9 – 9.5 – 9.4, 6+).

It is succeeded at #1 by American University-owned news/talk WAMU “The Mind Is Our Medium,” which is an overall +1.9 via five straight increases (7.6 – 8.0 – 8.2 – 8.3 – 9.0 – 9.5, 6+). This (9.5) is the best 6+-stat since November 2017(9.6) for WAMU, which was at #2 ten (10) times in calendar year 2018. The exceptions were in July, when WAMU finished third, and now in December (#1).

Flat at #24, Entercom business news outlet WDCHis down or flat for the fourth straight time (.5 – .4 – .4 – .4 – .3, 6+).

Washington, DC Music Formats – More than compensating for November’s -1.0 with a December increase in excess of 50% (4.8 – 7.3, +2.5, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary WASH “97.1 Washington’s Variety of the ‘80s ‘90s and Today” glides from sixth to third. At this time last year, WASH posted a 7.8 (December 2017, 6+). Prior to November’s -1.0, WASH was +2.1 in September and October (3.7 – 4.4 – 5.8, 6+). In early-October, Entercom transitioned hot AC WIAD “Fresh” to classic hits-oldies “94.7 The Drive – DC’s Greatest Hits.” WIAD is up one-half share to 2.9 (#18 to #16), its highest 6+-showing since July’s 3.1. A loss of eight-tenths (4.8 – 4.0, sixth to eighth, 6+) takes its former format rival – Cumulus Media hot AC WRQX “Mix 107.3” – to its lowest 6+-showing since June (4.0, as well). Having logged a 2.4 – 2.9 (6+) for 11 straight sweeps (2.4 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 2.6 – 2.8 – 2.6 – 2.9 – 2.8 – 2.8, 6+), iHeartMedia alternative WWDC added four-tenths in November to 3.2, but “DC-101” relinquishes seven-tenths in December to 2.5 (#15 to #17, 6+). The nine-tenths lead that Radio One-owned WMMJ “Majic” held over urban AC competitor WHUR in November expands to 1.5, as “Majic” is up one-tenth to 6.8 (fourth, 6+) while Howard University’s WHUR is off one-half share (5.8 – 5.3, fifth, 6+). “Majic” (-.9 in October) had been in third-place the past four months, while WHUR (-1.0 in October) finished fourth in each of the previous eight ratings periods. Following six straight up or flat reports for a collective +2.3 (5.6 – 5.6 – 5.6 – 5.8 – 6.6 – 7.1 – 7.9, 6+), WMMJ faltered by nine-tenths in August. July 2018’s 7.9 is the highest 6+-stat in its PPM history. After four straight sweeps without an increase for an overall -1.4 (7.1 – 6.2 – 6.1 – 5.7 – 5.7, 6+), WHUR was a combined +1.1in June and July (5.7 – 6.3 – 6.8), with July’s 6.8 its best 6+-showing since January 2018’s 7.1. Unchanged at #12, Greater Washington Educational Telecommunications’ WETA “Classical 90.9” drops three-tenths to 3.3 (6+), thus snapping at five its consecutive string of up or flat trends that netted a collective +1.4 (2.2 – 2.3 – 2.9 – 3.5 – 3.6 – 3.6, 6+). Prior to September, WETA had been within 2.0 – 2.9 range (6+) the previous 22ratings periods. Atlantic Gateway Communications contemporary Christian WGTS “91.9 Christian Music Radio” is a collective -1.1 via three straight decreases (4.9 – 4.5 – 4.0 – 3.8, flat at #10, 6+). Steady at #18, Radio One gospel WPRS “Praise 104.1” surrenders one-half share (2.6 – 2.1, 6+).

Boston

Spoken-Word Formats – After posting three positive spikes in a row for an overall gain of eight-tenths (2.4 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 3.2, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WRKO surrenders 75% of that increase and tumbles from #12 to #15 (2.6, -.6, 6+). November’s 3.2 is the best 6+-stat for “AM 680 – The Voice of Boston” in more than four years (3.3, November 2014).

In November, the market’s two FM sports talkers combined for an 11.8 (6+), which represented a +1.4 from October’s 10.4. It is a different story in December though as Entercom’s WEEI-FM erodes by two full-shares (5.7 – 3.7, third to ninth, 6+), while Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” sputters by one full-share (5.1, second to fifth, 6+). The flagship of the 2018 World Series champion Boston Red Sox – WEEI-FM – has the dubious distinction of having the largest (6+) November 2018 – December 2018 decrease (-2.0) of any station in the 24 PPM markets we’ve seen thus far. WEEI-FM was a collective +1.1 in October and November (4.6 – 5.1 – 5.7, 6+). Meanwhile, December’s -1.0 by “The Sports Hub” suspends four straight increases that accounted for a +2.3 (3.8 – 4.0 – 4.4 – 5.3 – 6.1, 6+). WBZ-FM is the flagship of the New England Patriots, Boston Celtics, and Boston Bruins.

Notwithstanding that iHeartMedia-owned news-talk hybrid WBZ-AM is off a collective one-half share via three straight decreases (5.4 – 5.3 – 5.0 – 4.9, 6+), “News Radio 1030” actually advances from eighth to seventh.

It is a bit of a similar scenario for WBUR, which drops four-tenths (5.5 – 5.1, 6+), but improves from sixth to fifth; the Boston University news/talker had registered a 5.5 (6+) in September, October, and November. WGBH Educational Foundation news/talk WGBH answers November’s loss of eight-tenths (3.4 – 2.6, 6+) with a gain of two-tenths to 2.8 (#14 to #13, 6+). Its June 2018 – October 2018 (6+) topline was 3.5 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.1 – 3.4, but November’s 2.6 was its lowest 6+-showing since June 2016 (2.6, as well).

Boston Music Formats – A modest November increase of three-tenths (5.3 – 5.6, 6+) by Entercom adult contemporary WMJX is followed by a massive +3.3 as “Magic 106.7 – Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites” jumps from fourth to first. Its December 2018 8.9 (6+) is one-tenth better from what it logged this time last year (8.8, December 2017). Competing roughly 40 miles to the west from Worcester, iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WSRS “96-1 SRS – Worcester’s At-Work Station” nearly doubles (+.5) its 6+ Boston stat (.6 – 1.1, 6+) and checks in at #22. The station that “Magic” displaced at #1 is WSRS’ CHR sibling, WXKS-FM “Kiss 108 – Boston’s #1 Hit Music Station” (6.9 – 6.8, -.1, first to second, 6+). “Kiss” had been on top the past 11 ratings periods. By picking up two-tenths in November, WXKS-FM halted three straight down or flat trends that accounted for an overall -1.1 (7.8 – 7.8 – 7.1 – 6.7, 6+). Locked on 5.2 (6+) in October and November, co-owned WZLX “100.7 Boston’s Classic Rock” improves by eight-tenths to 6.0 (seventh to third), its strongest 6+-performance in more than four years (6.4, September 2014). A collective +1.2 via five successive increases (2.1 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 3.0 – 3.1 – 3.3, 6+), urban AC cluster-mate WKAF “97.7 Boston’s #1 For R&B” climbs from #13 to #12. Within 2.2 – 2.9 range (6+) for the 18^thstraight sweep, rhythmic CHR cluster-mate WJMN “Jam’n 94.5” (2.4 – 2.8, +.4, 6+) advances from #16 to #13. By dropping two-tenths to 3.6 (6+), Beasley Media Group rhythmic hot AC WBQT not only has its successive string of increases that produced a +.8 end at three (3.0 – 3.2 – 3.6 – 3.8, 6+), “Hot 96.9” exits the top ten (#9 to #11). Down or flat for the sixth successive sweep for a combined loss of -1.0 (4.7 – 4.5 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 3.7, 6+), co-owned WKLB “Country 102.5” actually remains in ninth-place. Without a loss the past four months for a collective gain of three-tenths (2.2 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 2.5, 6+), Entercom CHR WODS “103.3 Amp Radio” is off two-tenths in December to 2.3 (#15 to #17, 6+).

Miami

English-Language, Spoken-Word Formats – Remaining at #18, iHeartMedia news/talk WIOD “News Radio 620 – Miami’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station” drops one-tenth to 2.4 (6+), thus curtailing three consecutive gains that yielded six-tenths (1.9 – 2.0 – 2.2 – 2.5, 6+).

May 2018 through December 2018 6+ stats for Entercom’s WQAM “Sports Radio 560” are: .9 – .8 – .9 – .8 – .9 – .9 – .8 – .9 (#28 to #26, 6+). Off three-tenths (.9 – .6, 6+), co-owned WAXY “Sports Talk 790 The Ticket” slumps from #27 to #30. Its three-tenths’ increase in September curtailed seven straight (mostly) flat or down trends that accounted for a loss of three-tenths (.9 – .9 – .9 – .9 – .9 – .8 – .7 – .6, 6+).

Unchanged at #20, Dade County School Board news/talk WLRN regains the one-tenth it dropped in November (2.2 – 2.1 – 2.2, 6+).

Miami Music Formats – A gain of one-half share (2.7 – 3.2, #16 to #11, 6+) takes Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish contemporary WRMA “Ritmo 95.7 – Cubaton y Mas” to its highest 6+-stat since May 2017 (3.2, as well). Carrying on in sixth-place, iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WZTU “Tu 94.9 FM Donde Viven Tus Hits” is without a loss for the fourth month in a row for a collective +.9 (3.9 – 4.6 – 4.6 – 4.7 – 4.8, 6+). Rebounding from November’s loss of seven-tenths with a December increase of three-tenths (7.2 – 7.5, 6+), Cox Media Group adult contemporary WFEZ “Easy 93.1” is on top for the seventh straight month. Prior to November, “Easy” was +1.0 through three straight gains (6.9 – 7.4 – 7.8 – 7.9, 6+). After three consecutive months without a loss for an overall advantage of eight-tenths (6.7 – 7.3 – 7.3 – 7.5, 6+), WFEZ faltered by six-tenths in July. The market’s other AC – Entercom’s WLYF “101.5 Lite FM” – improves by one-half share (5.7 – 6.2, 6+) and inches up from fourth to second. “Lite FM” wiped away half of October’s -.6 with a November improvement of three-tenths. WLYF was a collective +.5 in August and September (5.5 – 5.8 – 6.0, 6+). In six of the last ten survey periods, Cox Media Group urban contemporary WEDR “99 Jamz” has posted a 4.7 (4.7 – 4.6 – 4.7 – 4.5 – 4.7 – 4.6 – 4.4 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 4.7, sixth to seventh,6+). After dropping two-tenths in November, the market’s (6+) mainstream CHR share falters by another six-tenths as Cox Media Group’s WFLC “Hits 97.3” (3.2 – 3.0, -.2, #12 to #13, 6+) overtakes iHeartMedia-owned WHYI “Y-100 Miami’s #1 Hit Music Station” (3.3 – 2.9, -.4, #10 to #14, 6+). Prior to October’s gain of three-tenths, “Hits 97.3” was down three sweeps in a row for an overall loss of seven-tenths (3.7 – 3.6 – 3.3 – 3.0, 6+).

Seattle

Spoken-Word Formats – On the heels of forfeiting six-tenths in November, Bonneville news/talk KIRO-FM regresses by another three-tenths (6.0 – 5.7, 6+), sliding from second to third. Its -.6 in November pulled the plug on three straight positive spikes which netted a +1.5 (5.1 – 5.9 – 6.1 – 6.6, 6+). Three increases in a row for a collective +.9 by co-owned KTTH (2.1 – 2.3 – 2.9 – 3.0, 6+) are wiped away completely with a December loss of nine-tenths to 2.1 (6+) as “Conservative Talk Radio” exits the top twenty (#17 to #21). A similar streak concludes as well as Sinclair Broadcast Group-owned KVI “Talk Radio 570,” up three-tenths since May through six straight reports without a loss (1.0 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.3 – 1.3, 6+), loses one-tenth (1.2, #24 to #25, 6+).

A collective +.7 in October and November, Bonneville sports talk KIRO-AM “ESPN 710” regresses by two-tenths in December to 3.9 (6+), but remains at #9. Immediately prior to October, the flagship of the Seahawks and Mariners was off eight-tenths via three straight down or flat trends (4.2 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.4, 6+). In four consecutive sweeps without a loss, iHeartMedia-owned KJR-AM nearly tripled (+.9) its 6+ AQH share (.5 – .7 – .9 – 1.4 – 1.4, 6+), but “Seattle’s Sports Radio 950” returns one-tenth to 1.3 (flat at #23, 6+).

In a statistical oddity, all-news KOMO had been making moves in increments of two-tenths. The Sinclair Broadcast Group facility was down two-tenths in June (2.6 – 2.4, 6+); up two-tenths in both August and September (2.3 – 2.5 – 2.7, 6+); down two-tenths in October (2.7 – 2.5, 6+); and up two-tenths in November (2.5 – 2.7, 6+). It is down in December – but – by three-tenths (2.7 – 2.4, #19 to #18, 6+).

Following four consecutive up or flat trends that netted an overall nine-tenths (5.4 – 5.4 – 5.9 – 6.2 – 6.3, 6+), Northwest Public Radio news/talk KUOW lost one-half share in November, but recaptures two-tenths in December (5.8 – 6.0, third to second, 6+); KUOW was #1 in September. October’s 6.3 was its highest 6+-share since April’s 6.5. Entering the August sweep, KUOW was an overall -1.1 in three straight down or flat sweeps (6.5 – 6.0 – 5.4 – 5.4, 6+).

Seattle Music Formats – Not only does Hubbard adult contemporary KRWM tack on a robust +4.7 to November’s +.7 (3.4 – 4.1 – 8.8, 6+), “Warm 106.9” rockets from ninth all the way to first; KRWM logged an 8.1 (6+) in December 2017. Its improvement of seven-tenths in November applied the brakes to four successive setbacks that produced an overall -1.6 (5.0 – 4.3 – 4.1 – 4.0 – 3.4, 6+). Prior to a +.3 in June, KRWM was -7.1 (or roughly -60%) in five consecutive down or flat sweeps (11.8 – 5.5 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 4.8 – 4.7, 6+). Its 11.8 in “Holiday” 2017 was the AC station’s strongest 6+-stat since 13.4 in “Holiday” 2015;“Warm” was #1 in December 2017 and “Holiday” 2017. The station dislodged from the top spot and sliding to fourth is KRWM’s CHR cluster-mate KQMV (6.6 – 5.3, -1.3, 6+). In calendar year 2018, “MOViN 92.5” ranked first in February, March, June, July, August, October, and November. KQMV was +1.7 (July); -1.4 (August); -.6 (September); +1.0 (October); and now -1.3 (December). It has been just over one year since Entercom transitioned country KMPS to adult contemporary KSWD “The Sound.” In the September 2018 sweep, “The Sound” overtook “Warm 106.9” for the first time since KSWD’s format shift. As the result of six successive months without a loss (3.3 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.8 – 4.2 – 4.9 – 5.0, 6+), “The Sound” was an impressive +1.7.That streak though is stymied in December with a loss of eight-tenths (4.2, fourth to sixth, 6+). At the same time that iHeartMedia CHR KBKS “106.1 Kiss FM” adds sixth-tenths (2.3 – 2.9, #20 to #16, 6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KLSW “Positive & Encouraging K-Love,” which lost approximately half (-.7) of its 6+-share through four drops in a row (1.5 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.1 – .8, 6+), is up one-half share to 1.3 (#23, 6+). A collective -1.6in four consecutive sweeps without an increase (5.3 – 5.1 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 3.7, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KZOK “102.5 Seattle’s Classic Rock Station” fades from the top ten (#5 to #12). This (3.7) is the lowest 6+-showing for KZOK in exactly one year (3.6, 6+, December 2017). Evaporating by one full-share and one-half share, respectively, are Hubbard-owned country KNUC “98.9 The Bull” (3.1 – 2.1, #16 to #21, 6+) and iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR KUBE “93.3 Seattle’s #1 For Hip-Hop” (3.3 – 2.8, #14 to #17, 6+). Entercom’s KISW is without an improvement for the seventh straight sweep for a collective -2.0 (6.2 – 5.4 – 5.4 – 5.3 – 5.1 – 4.6 – 4.6 – 4.2, 6+), but “99.9 Seattle Rock Music” continues in sixth-place. Co-owned rhythmic hot AC KHTP “Hot 103.7” is a collective -1.1 in seven consecutive down or flat reports (3.4 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.3, 6+), but advances from #20 to #19.

Detroit

Spoken-Word Formats – Through four straight gains, Cumulus Media’s WJR was a combined +1.1 (3.6 – 3.8 – 4.1 – 4.5 – 4.7, 6+), but “News Talk 760” forfeits six-tenths in December to 4.1 (ninth to tenth, 6+). Its +.2 in August interrupted three straight negative trends that accounted for a loss of seven-tenths (4.3 – 4.2 – 3.7 – 3.6, 6+).

Following three upticks in a row that netted a +1.8 (4.6 – 5.5 – 5.8 – 6.4, 6+), Entercom sports talk/Pistons, Red Wings, Tigers flagship WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” returns one-half share to 5.9 (6+), slipping from fifth to sixth.

Rebounding from November’s one-half share loss with a positive spike of two-tenths (6.6 – 6.8, 6+), co-owned WWJ “News Radio 950” progresses from third to second. Its -.5 in November halted three consecutive gains that yielded an overall +1.6 (5.5 – 6.3 – 6.5 – 7.1, 6+). October’s 7.1 was WWJ’s strongest 6+-stat since March 2017 (7.4).

Off one-tenth (1.8 – 1.7, 6+), Michigan Public Media news/talk WUOM slips from #18 to #19. By gaining one-tenth in September, WUOM halted eight straight survey periods without an increase for a collective -.3 (1.9 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.6, 6+). Four straight gains byWDET yielded an overall nine-tenths (.6 – .7 – .8 – .9 – 1.1 – 1.5, 6+), but the Wayne State University news/talk facility drops two-tenths to 1.3 (flat at #22, 6+).

Detroit Music Formats – Over and above logging its third straight increase for a cumulative +6.5, easily doubling its 6+-share since September (5.7 – 6.2 – 6.6 – 12.2, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary WNIC “The Best Variety of the ‘80s, ‘90s, & Today” marches from third to first. Not only that, WNIC boasts the largest 6+-share (12.2) of any station in the 24 PPM markets we have analyzed thus far. This time last year, WNIC posted an 11.8 (December 2017, 6+). Ousted from the penthouse and segueing to #3 is Beasley Media Group-owned WCSX “94.7 – Detroit’s Classic Rock” (7.8 – 6.6, -1.2, 6+). Its +.5 in November curtailed three straight declines that led to a cumulative -1.0 (8.3 – 7.9 – 7.4 – 7.3, 6+). WCSX spent four straight months at #1 before being dislodged in September. A -1.0 (7.0 – 6.0, second to fifth, 6+) sends Entercom classic hits-oldies WOMC “104.3 Detroit’s Greatest Hits” to its lowest 6+-stat (6.0) since November 2017’s 5.9. After four straight up or flat moves that netted six-tenths (3.3 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.8 – 3.9, 6+), iHeartMedia urban contemporary WJLB “97.9 Detroit’s Hip-Hop and R&B” falters by six-tenths to 3.3 (#11 to #13, 6+). Four negative trends in a row by Cumulus Media hot AC WDVD “96.3 Today’s Best Music and More” have accounted for a -1.4 (5.2 – 4.8 – 4.4 – 3.9 – 3.8, flat at #11, 6+).

Phoenix

Spoken-Word Formats – A collective +1.2 as a result of four increases in a row (3.1 – 3.2 – 3.3 – 3.6 – 3.8 – 4.3, 6+), KTAR-FM relinquishes two-thirds of that increase (3.5, -.8, 6+) yet actually improves from ninth to eighth. In November, the Bonneville news/talk outlet reached the four-share level (6+) for the first time since January’s 4.0. Off three-tenths (2.9 – 2.6, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KFYI falls from #15 to #18. After dropping four-tenths in September, “News Talk 550” duplicated October’s gain of two-tenths in November (2.5 – 2.7 – 2.9, 6+).

Immediately following its one-half share September increase to 3.1 (6+), Bonneville sports talk KMVP-FM “98.7 Arizona Sports” is now a combined -1.1in three straight dips (3.1 – 3.0 – 2.1 – 2.0, 6+) and repeats at #21. September 2018 marked the first time the key station of the Phoenix Suns, Arizona Coyotes, and Arizona Diamondbacks reached the three-share level (6+) since October 2017’s 3.0.

Albeit flat at 2.8 (6+), Maricopa County Community College news/talk KJZZ advances from #16 to #14. October’s 3.1 was its best 6+-showing since April’s 3.6.

Phoenix Music Formats – Three upticks in succession by iHeartMedia adult contemporary KESZ result in a collective +3.6 (6.1 – 6.6 – 6.9 – 9.7, 6+). KESZ, which notched a 12.1 (6+) in December 2017, is on top for the third straight time. It entered the October sweep with four consecutive declines (including September’s -1.2) that accounted for an overall -2.9 (9.0 – 8.7 – 7.5 – 7.3 – 6.1, 6+). After spending ten straight sweeps at #1, KESZ shifted to the runner-up slot in September. Doubling November’s gain of four-tenths with a December increase of eight-tenths (4.7 – 5.1 – 5.9, 6+), co-owned hot AC KMXP “Mix 96.9” climbs from fifth to fourth. In sevenstraight sweeps without a loss, The Yucaipa Companies’ classic hits-oldies KOAI “The Oasis” is a collective +1.2(1.5 – 1.6 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 2.3 – 2.7, #19 to #16, 6+). Eroding by -1.2(4.5 – 3.3, 6+), Entercom’s KOOL “94.5 Phoenix Classic Hits” exits the top ten (#8 to #11). Down by one-half share (each) are Entercom rhythmic CHR KALV “Live 101.5” (3.5 – 3.0, #10 to #13, 6+) and Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KZAI “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” (.8 – .3, #34, 6+). “Live” was upone-half share in November and off seven-tenths in October. Despite losing a collective eight-tenths through four straight decreases (4.2 – 4.0 – 3.9 – 3.5 – 3.4, 6+), Entercom’s KMLE “Country @ 107.9” actually advances from tenth to ninth. Without an increase for the fifth straight month, TheYucaipa Companies’ hot AC KMVA “Hot” is a collective -1.0 since July (3.5 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.5, #18 to #19, 6+). Returning the one-half share it gained in November (2.8 3.3 – 2.8, 6+), Univision Radio regional Mexican KHOT “Que Buena 105.9” slips from #13 to #14.

Minneapolis

Spoken-Word Formats – Via five straight down or flat moves (4.4 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.1 – 3.8, 6+), Entercom-owned WCCO is off by an overall six-tenths, dropping from #11 to #12. Earlier this year, “News Radio 830” was +.8 (April); -.8 (May); -.8 (June); and +.5 (July). The Timberwolves and Twins flagship is one-tenth ahead of iHeartMedia’s KTLK, which sputters by four-tenths (4.1 – 3.7, #11 to #14, 6+); “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” gained seven-tenths in October. A collective +.4 in October and November (2.5 – 2.8 – 2.9, 6+), Hubbard news/talk KTMY has that gain erased in December with a -.5 (2.4 #15 to #17, 6+). An August improvement of three-tenths by “My Talk 107.1” halted three straight down or flat moves that accounted for an overall loss of seven-tenths (3.1 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 2.4, 6+).

Following four consecutive increases that yielded a cumulative +3.0 (3.7 – 3.8 – 4.9 – 6.5 – 6.7, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KFXN “Sports Radio 100.3 K-Fan” returns one-third of that increase (5.7, -1.0, second to sixth, 6+). That particular streak by the flagship of the Minnesota Vikings and Minnesota Wild directly followed four dips in a row that produced a collective -2.1(5.8 – 5.5 – 4.7 – 4.0 – 3.7, 6+). With a February 2018 through December 2018 topline of 1.0 – .9 – .9 – 1.0 – .8 – 1.0 – 1.0 – .8 – .7 – 1.0 – .7 (6+), Hubbard sports talk KSTP-AM “ESPN 1500” slumps from #21 to #24.

After three straight increases that produced a +1.0(3.7 – 4.4 – 4.5 – 4.7, 6+), Minnesota Public Radio news/talk KNOW drops two-tenths in November and three-tenths in December (4.7 – 4.5 – 4.2, flat at #10, 6+). Immediately prior, KNOW was a collective -2.2 in four negative moves in a row (5.9 – 5.4 – 4.7 – 4.4 – 3.7, 6+).

Minneapolis Music Formats – Roaring back from a collective -1.4 in October and November (8.0 – 6.7 – 6.6, 6+) with a +2.1 in December (to 8.7, 6+), iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KQQL “Kool 108 Minnesota’s Greatest Hits” progresses from third to first. It succeeds Hubbard hot AC KSTP-FM “KS-95” (7.3 – 6.3, -1.0, 6+), which shifts to fourth. Before being a combined +.4 in September and October (7.1 – 7.4 – 7.5, 6+), KSTP-FM logged four straight downward trends that accounted for a -1.5 (8.6 – 7.9 – 7.8 – 7.5 – 7.1, 6+). It held the lead position seven straight sweeps prior to being ousted in August. Tacking on eight-tenths to November’s +.4 (4.6 – 5.0 – 5.8, 6+), Entercom adult hits KZJK “104.1 Jack FM – Playing What We Want” jumps from eighth to fifth with its best 6+-stat (5.8) since July’s 5.9. This is the fourth straight up or flat trend for Cumulus Media rocker KXXR “93-X” for an overall gain of eight-tenths (5.6 – 5.6 – 5.6 – 5.7 – 6.4, fifth to third 6+). Advancing by six-tenths (each) are iHeartMedia CHR KDWB “101.3 The Twin Cities’ #1 Hit Music Station” (6.7, fourth to second, 6+) and Minnesota Public Radio classical outlet KSJN (#17 to #15). In advance of its December growth, KDWB was a collective -1.7 in three decreases in succession (7.8 – 7.2 – 6.5 – 6.1, 6+); KSJN is +.9 in four upticks in a row (2.0 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.9, 6+). After notching consecutive bumps of two-tenths (5.2 – 5.4 – 5.6, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KEEY “K-102 Minnesota’s Country Station” erodes by -1.0 to 4.6 (sixth to eighth, 6+). Faltering by six-tenths and one-half share, respectively, are University of Northwestern St. Paul contemporary Christian KTIS-FM “Always Uplifting” (unchanged at #9) and Minnesota Public Schools’ KBEM “Jazz 88 FM” (2.2 – 1.7, #18 to #19, 6+). In three straight sweeps without an increase, KTIS-FM is off a collective eight-tenths (5.1 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 4.3, 6+). Following three negative moves in a row for a cumulative August through November loss of eight-tenths (3.5 – 3.3 – 3.2 – 2.7, 6+), Minnesota Public Radio triple A KCMP adds one-tenth to 2.8 (6+) and stays at #16.

San Diego

Spoken-Word Formats –There is another major fluctuation for iHeartMedia news/talk KOGO (4.7 – 4.0, -.7, sixth to ninth). “News Radio 600” was +.8 (January); -.7 (February); +.8 (March); +.6 (May); -.6 (August); and now -.7 (December). October 2017’s 7.2 is KOGO’s highest 6+-share in its PPM-history. Finishing back-to-back are Tegna news/talk KFMB-AM “AM 760,” which is up one-tenth to 1.7 (#23 to #22, 6+), after three straight months at 1.6 (6+), and iHeartMedia Los Angeles’ similarly-formatted KFI “AM 640” (1.3 – 1.2, -.1, #24 to #23, 6+).

Off three-tenths (1.2 – .9, 6+),Interamericana de Radio’s XPRS-AM “The Mighty 1090” slips from #24 to #25; November’s 1.2 was its highest 6+-stat since April (1.2, as well). Repeating at #27 and #29, respectively, are Entercom-owned/San Diego Padres flagship KWFN “97.3 The Fan” (.7 – .8, +.1, 6+) and iHeartMedia’s KLSD “Fox Sports 1360 San Diego’s Sports Station” (flat at .6, 6+).

Despite being down six-tenths (6.8 – 6.2, 6+), San Diego State University-owned news/talk KPBS is #1 for the third month in a row. Before reaching the top spot in October, KPBS shifted from first to second (April); returned to #1 (May); dropped from first to third (June); slipped from third to fourth (July); returned to first (August); and segued from first to second (September).

San Diego Music Formats– With an April 2018 – November 2018 topline within 3.0 – 3.9 range (6+), Entercom adult contemporary KYXY busts out a +2.5 (3.3 – 5.8, 6+) as it zooms from #11 to #3, surpassing by one-tenth the 5.7 it logged in December 2017. There are half-share December 2018 increases for iHeartMedia hot AC KMYI “Star 94.1” (4.7 – 5.2, sixth to fifth, 6+); Univision Radio regional Mexican KLNV “Que Buena 106.5” (4.5 – 5.0, ninth to sixth, 6+); and Tegna rocker KFMB-FM “100.7 KFM-BFM” (2.8 – 3.3, #14 to #13, 6+). This is the highest 6+-stat for “Star” since May (5.2, as well). KFMB-FM is bouncing back from November’s loss of nine-tenths. Its format rival – iHeartMedia’s KIOZ “Rock 105.3” – drops two-tenths to 3.1 (#11 to #15, 6+), thus suspending three straight up or flat moves that generated an overall +1.1 (2.2 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 3.3, 6+). Prior to picking up three-tenths in November, Entercom’s KSON was an overall -1.4 in four straight down or flat trends (6.3 – 5.9 – 5.6 – 5.6 – 4.9, 6+). In December, however, “103.7 New Country” plummets by one full-share (5.2 – 4.2, fourth to eighth, 6+). Having logged a 4.6 in three of the last four sweeps (4.6 – 4.2 – 4.6 – 4.6, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KGB “101.5 San Diego’s Classic Rock” falters by nine-tenths to 3.7 (eighth to tenth, 6+). A December loss of six-tenths by co-owned CHR KHTS erases November’s one-half share gain (6.1 – 6.6 – 6.0, 6+), but “Channel 93.3 – San Diego’s #1 Hit Music Station” remains in the runner-up slot. In seven consecutive sweeps without a loss, KHTS (#1 in September) was a collective +2.8 (3.5 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 4.5 – 4.7 – 4.8 – 6.3 – 6.3, 6+), but it lost two-tenths in October. Down or flat for the fifth report in a row for a collective -1.1(5.9 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 4.9 – 4.8, 6+), Local Media of San Diego-operated XHRM “Magic 92.5 The Beat of San Diego” skids from fifth to seventh. In three downward trends in succession, Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KLVJ is a collective -1.3 (3.7 – 3.0 – 2.5 – 2.4, stable at #17, 6+). San Diego’s version of “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” posted a +1.1 in September when it reached the three-share threshold (3.7, 6+) for the first time since March (3.1).

Tampa

Spoken-Word Formats – Down four-tenths (3.8 – 3.4, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned news/talk WFLA “970 Tampa Bay’s News Radio” slips from #11 to #13. The flagship of the NHL’s Tampa Lightning was a combined -.9 in September and October (4.2 – 3.9 – 3.3, 6+), following August’s +.6. WFLA was +.5 in January and February; -.5 (March); +.8 (April); -.7 (July);+.6 (August); -.6 (October); and +.5 in November. It has tied with Cox Media Group news/talk WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” (3.6 – 3.4, -.2, 6+), which is unchanged at #14. “The Bone” erased September’s -.2 with an October gain of three-tenths. Prior to September, WHPT was without a loss the previous four sweeps for a +.8 (2.7 – 2.7 – 2.9 – 3.1 – 3.5, 6+).

The collective +.6 iHeartMedia-owned WDAE racked up in September and October (2.1 – 2.5 – 2.7, 6+) disappears in November and December (2.7 – 2.3 – 2.1, 6+) as “620 Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” slides from #19 to #20.

It is now one-tenth behind University of South Florida news/talk WUSF, which is down one-tenth to 2.2 (#19 to #18, 6+), thus snapping at three its string of consecutive increases that netted nine-tenths (1.4 – 1.6 – 2.0 – 2.3, 6+); November’s 2.3 is its best 6+-showing since February’s 2.8.

Tampa Music Formats – Not only is Beasley Media Group’s WPBB a cumulative +1.4 in three straight up or flat monthlies (2.3 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 3.7, 6+), it vaults from #18 to #11 with its highest 6+-stat (3.7) since “Holiday” 2017’s 4.0. During the December 2018 sweep, WPBB used the “B-98.7” handle, but the day after Christmas (12/26), it changed format and imaging to “98.7 The Shark – The Next Generation Of Classic Rock.” Good news continues for iHeartMedia hot AC WTMX as “Mix 100.7” is a collective +1.4 in four positive spikes in succession (2.9 – 3.2 – 3.5 – 4.1 – 4.3, steady at #7, 6+). Adding a +1.1 to November’s +.8 (8.9 – 9.7 – 10.8, 6+), Cox Media Group adult contemporary WDUV “Lite Favorites” sets the pace for the 76^thsuccessive ratings period. This (10.8) is its strongest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2017’s 11.9; WDUV was 10.4 (6+) in December 2017. Ending its (6+) 3.7 – 4.0 – 3.7 sequence with a one-half share increase to 4.2, iHeartMedia’s WXTB “98 Rock” cracks the top ten (#12 to #9). On the heels of November’s one-half share improvement, Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies WRBQ “Q-105” surrenders seven-tenths (5.2 – 4.5, fourth to sixth, 6+). November’s +.5 halted three straight down or flat trends that accounted for a collective -1.7 (6.4 – 6.2 – 6.2 – 4.7, 6+). Meanwhile, Cox Media Group’s similarly-formatted WXGL “107.3 The Eagle – Tampa Bay’s Classic Hits” forfeits six-tenths (6.6 – 6.0, 6+) but ranks #2 for the fifth sweep in succession. Off by six-tenths as well is co-owned CHR WPOI “Hot 101.5” (3.9 – 3.3, 6+), which drifts from the top ten (#10 to #15). Entering the November sweep, its format rival, iHeartMedia-ownedCHR WFLZ “93.3 FLZ – Tampa Bay’s #1 Hit Music Channel,” was a collective +.6 via three straight up or flat moves (3.6 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.2, 6+). WFLZ dropped two-tenths in November but bounces back in December with a +.3 (4.0 – 4.3 eighthto seventh, 6+).

Denver

Spoken-Word Formats – The May 2018 through September 2018 topline for iHeartMedia news/talk KOA “Colorado’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station” was a fairly even 5.0 – 5.4 – 5.3 – 5.0 – 5.1 (6+), but the last three reports have included a +1.1 (October); -1.1 (November); and now a -.6 in November (5.1 – 6.2 – 5.1 – 4.5, 6+), as the flagship of the Denver Broncos and Colorado Rockies falls from third to sixth. Co-owned news/talk KHOW “Talk Radio 630” continues at both 1.5 and #21 (6+).

After posting four increases in a row for an overall +1.9(2.5 – 2.9 – 3.8 – 4.0 – 4.4, 6+),Bonneville-owned KKFN “Sports Radio 104.3 The Fan” returns eight-tenths to 3.6 (6+) and departs the top ten (#9 to #12). November’s 4.4 is its strongest 6+-showing since October 2017 (4.5). In early-September, KSE Radio Ventures transitioned country KWOF “The Wolf” to KKSE-FM“Attitude Sports Radio 92.5.” The flagship of the Denver Nuggets and Colorado Avalanche is off one-tenth (.4 – .3, 6+), but advances from #30 to #29.

Even though it adds three-tenths (6.6 – 6.9, 6+), Colorado Public Radio news/talk KCFR – on top the past three months – segues to #2. A one-tenth decline in November suspended three consecutive gains that netted +1.5(5.2 – 6.3 – 6.4 – 6.7, 6+). Earlier in calendar year 2018, KCFR was #1 in January, March, and May. Community Radio for Northern Colorado news/talk KUNC picks up two-tenths (1.2 – 1.4, 6+) and moves from #24 to #22.

Denver Music Formats – A collective -1.1 in four successive sweeps without an increase (6.0 – 5.8 – 5.0 – 4.9 – 4.9, 6+), Bonneville adult contemporary KOSI “101.1 Real-Music-Variety” busts out of the slump with a +2.7 to 7.6 (6+), marching from fifth to first. KOSI was up or flat five consecutive months (February 2018 through July 2018) for an overall +1.4 (4.6 – 4.7 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.6 – 6.0, 6+). This (7.6) is the strongest 6+-showing since Holiday’s 2017’s 11.5 for KOSI, which was 7.8 (6+) in December 2017. Stuck on 4.2 (6+) in August and September and then locked on 4.0 (6+) in October and November, iHeartMedia’s KRFX erupts with a +1.0 to 5.0 (6+), as “Classic Rock 103.5 The Fox” leaps from #11 to #3 with its best 6+-stat (5.0) since March (5.2). Wiping away November’s one-half share loss with December’s +.9 (2.8 – 2.3 – 3.2, 6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KLDV “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” zooms from #19 to #14. A one-half share improvement by Entercom rhythmic CHR KQKS “KS-107.5” (3.1, #17 to #15, 6+) interrupts four straight negative moves that accounted for a collective -1.3 (3.9 – 3.8 – 3.3 – 2.9 – 2.6, 6+). Entercom hot AC KALC “Alice 105.9” drops two-tenths to 4.5 (eighth to six, 6+) thus snapping at three its consecutive string of improvements that generated a +.9 (3.8 – 4.3 – 4.5 – 4.7, 6+). Immediately after posting a November gain of seven-tenths, iHeartMedia’s KWBL “106.7 The Bull – Colorado’s New Country” regresses by seven-tenths (3.5 – 2.8, #13 to #17, 6+). Declining by one-half share to 2.1 (#16 to #19, 6+) is Max Broadcast Group rhythmic hot AC KJHM “Jammin’ 101.5,” which was a collective +1.2 via three straight gains (1.5 – 1.9 – 2.3 – 2.7, 6+). By dropping one-half share (5.5 – 5.0, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KBCO “97.3 World Class Rock” slips from second to third. In four consecutive decreases, Bonneville’s country KYGO is a cumulative -1.7 (6.2 – 6.0 – 5.8 – 5.0 – 4.5, fourth to sixth, 6+).

Baltimore

Spoken-Word Formats – Independent news/talk WCBM “680 Stimulating Talk – Breaking News” falters by one-half share (3.5 – 3.0, flat at #11, 6+), while HearstTelevision news/talk WBAL “News Radio – Expect More” is off three-tenths (2.5 – 2.2, flat at #13, 6+). WCBM was -.5 in September and +1.0 in October. Prior to the December sweep, WBAL had a (6+) fluctuation of one-tenth four times in a row: 2.5 – 2.4; 2.4 – 2.5; 2.5 – 2.6; and 2.6 – 2.5. When WBAL gained one-tenth in September to 2.5 (6+), it halted five straight sweeps without an increase that accounted for a collective -.9 (3.3 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.5 – 2.4, 6+). Since resurfacing in the Baltimore report in May, Cumulus Media Washington, DC news/talk WMAL has a topline of .7 – .6 – .5 – .4 – .5 – .5 – .4 – .3 (#27 to #29, 6+).

Recapturing 50% of November’s -1.0 (4.1 – 4.6, +.5, 6+), Entercom sports talk WJZ-FM “105.7 The Fan” advances from ninth to seventh. An overall +1.1 as a result of four straight up or flat trends (4.0 – 4.3 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 5.1, 6+), Baltimore’s “Fan” was +.6 (January); -.6 (February); +1.0 (April); a combined -1.0 in May and June; -1.0 in November; and now +.5 (December).

Even though it erases November’s +.3 with a December -.3 (3.0 – 3.3 – 3.0, 6+), Your Public Radio news/talk WYPR “88.1 Your NPR News Station” progresses from #12 to #11. WYPR was a collective -.5 in August and September (3.1 – 3.0 – 2.6, 6+). Conversely, American University-owned news/talk WAMU is up three-tenths (1.4 – 1.7, 6+), yet drops from #16 to #17. Before slipping to 1.0 (6+) in August, WAMU notched a 1.1 (6+) five consecutive times in the Baltimore report.

Shifting from #25 to #27, Entercom business news WDCH has a March 2018 through December 2018 topline of: .8 – .8 – .8 – .6 – .5 – .5 – .6 – .8 – .7 – .6 ( 6+).

Baltimore Music Formats – Not only has Entercom adult contemporary WLIF more than doubled (+5.1) its 6+-stat via four straight gains (5.0 – 5.3 – 5.8 – 7.1 – 10.1, 6+), “Today’s 101.9” advances from third to first. This (10.1) is the highest 6+-share for WLIF since 16.3 in “Holiday” 2017; WLIF was 9.7 (6+) in December 2017. Registering a gain of nine-tenths is iHeartMedia Washington, DC’s similarly programmed WASH “97.1 Washington’s Variety of the ‘80s ‘90s and Today,”which more than doubles (+1.1) its 6+-stat in five straight up or flat Baltimore trends (1.0 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 2.1, #18 to #15, 6+). Exiting the top spot after holding that position the last 11 survey periods is Radio One urban AC WWIN-FM “Magic 95.9” (8.7 – 8.6, -.1, first to second, 6+). In three consecutive decreases (11.6 – 11.5 – 10.3 – 9.4, 6+), “Magic” was an overall -2.2,but it responded in June with a gain of three-tenths. Urban contemporary cluster-mate WERQ “92-Q Jams” (7.7 – 7.0, -.7, 6+), which had been attached to the runner-up slot the past seven months, segues to third-place. Not having an increase three months in a row resulted in a loss of nine tenths for iHeartMedia adult hits WQSR (5.5 – 5.5 – 5.1 – 4.6, 6+), but “102.7 Jack FM – Playing What We Want” is up a collective seven-tenths in November and December (4.6 – 4.7 – 5.3, eighth to fifth, 6+). A loss of one full-share by Entercom CHR WWMX (5.2 – 4.2, sixth to tenth, 6+) sends “106.5 Baltimore’s Best Mix” to its lowest 6+-share since “Holiday” 2017 (4.2, as well). Off by seven-tenths (each) are iHeartMedia’s WPOC “93.1 Today’s Best Country” (5.8 – 5.1, fourth to sixth, 6+) and Hearst Television’s WIYY “98 Rock” (5.0 – 4.3, seventh to ninth, 6+). For the fourth month in a row, 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 – Immediately after dropping nine-tenths in November, Entercom news/talk KMOX surrenders another six-tenths (8.4 – 7.5 – 6.9, 6+), as “The Voice of St. Louis” slides from second to third. The St. Louis Cardinals’ flagship, which was on top in September and October, entered the November sweep a collective +1.0via three increases in succession (7.4 – 7.6 – 8.3 – 8.4, 6+). Locked on 2.6 (6+) in August and September and then stuck on 2.8 (6+) in October and November, co-owned KFTK “FM News Talk 97.1” forfeits three-tenths to 2.5 (6+), but stays at #17. When KFTK gained two-tenths in October, it suspended three straight sweeps without an increase that resulted in an overall loss of seven-tenths (3.3 – 3.1 – 2.6 – 2.6, 6+).

Four straight up or flat moves by Hubbard sports talk WXOS netted a +1.3 (2.7 – 3.0 – 3.7 – 4.0 – 4.0, 6+) with October’s 4.0 its strongest 6+-showing since January (4.0, as well). In November and December, however, “101 Sports” is off a collective four-tenths (4.0 – 3.7 – 3.6, 6+), yet improves from #14 to #12.

After being up or flat the past six ratings periods for a net gain of six-tenths (2.9 – 3.2 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.5, 6+), University of Missouri news/talk KWMU falters by three-tenths to 3.2 (steady at #15, 6+). St. Louis Music Formats – Flipping a combined -.7 in October and November (5.9 – 5.2 – 5.2, 6+) into a whopping +4.6 in December (9.8, 6+), Entercom adult contemporary KEZK “The Best Mix of the ‘80s & Today” rockets from seventh to first. At this time last year, KEZK logged a 6.7 (6+, December 2017). It is a quick one-month (November 2018) stay at #1 for GatewayCreative Broadcasting contemporary Christian KLJY “99.1 Joy FM,” which segues from first to second. Since it returned in print this past April, KLJY has the following topline: 7.2 – 5.9 – 6.6 – 6.5 – 7.8 (August, #1) – 7.6 – 8.0 – 8.2 (November, #1) – 8.0 (December 2018, 6+). After registering a July 2018 through November 2018 repetitive sequence of 6.3 – 6.2 – 6.3 – 6.2 – 6.3 (6+), Hubbard’s KSHE “95 Real Rock Radio” improves by one-half share to 6.8 (fifth to fourth, 6+). Having racked up a +1.4 in September and October (6.7 – 7.8 – 8.1, 6+), iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KLOU “103.3 St. Louis’ Greatest Hits” follows with a combined -1.9 in November and December (8.1 – 7.2 – 6.2, third to fifth, 6+). In four successive sweeps without an increase, co-owned CHR KSLZ “Z-107.7 – St. Louis’ #1 Hit Music Station” is a collective -.9 (4.3 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 3.4, #12 to #14, 6+). The last time KSLZ was below a four-share (6+) was in January 2018 (3.9).As the result of four straight up or flat moves, Hubbard-owned WIL was a collective +1.0 (5.5 – 6.1 – 6.4 – 6.5 – 6.5, 6+) but “92.3 – Nobody Plays More New Country” falters in December by four-tenths to 6.1 (fourth to sixth, 6+). Following back-to-back improvements in October and November that produced an overall +1.4 (3.3 – 3.8 – 4.7, 6+), iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted KSD “93.7 The Bull – #1 For New Country” surrenders one-half share to 4.2 (eighth to tenth, 6+).

2019: Welcome to the Golden Age of Audio

TALKERS | January 2, 2019

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

BLOCK ISLAND, RI — A hundred years ago, radio was the newcomer. Thomas Edison had already captured audio, in 1877 via that first phonograph. Audio went live when KDKA reported that Warren G. Harding had won the 1920 presidential election.

In its 20^th century heyday, AM/FM broadcasting became a high-margin business, surviving the advent of television (which launched by luring away radio’s big stars); and – for a while – the evolution of playback devices (8-track, cassette, CD). But there were already cracks in the dam.

Wednesday, January 2, 2019

TALKERS | January 1, 2019

Townsquare Media Co-Founder Dhruv Prasad to Exit the Company. Company co-founder and current co-CEO Dhruv Prasad announces he will leave Townsquare Media, Inc at the end of this month. Current co-CEO Bill Wilson will become the sole chief executive officer. The company adds that, in addition to Wilson, co-founder and CFO Stuart Rosenstein and EVP Claire Yenicay will assume Prasad’s management responsibilities. Prasad comments, “I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished since founding Townsquare in 2010. From scratch, we created not only the nation’s third-largest radio broadcaster, but also built new, profitable businesses in live events and digital. With the company on strong footing and in the hands of an outstanding senior management team, it’s time for me to move on to my next challenge.” Wilson states, “I want to thank Dhruv for his contributions to Townsquare over his longstanding tenure, and in particular, his partnership over the past year as co-CEO. Together, we were able to reorient Townsquare to focus on our ‘Local First’ strategy and successfully rationalize our non-local businesses. I look forward to continuing this strategy, which has driven strong local growth in 2018, particularly within our digital businesses, and solidified our position as the premier local advertising and marketing solutions company in the heartland of America.”

Mancow Begins New Year Hosting Mornings on WLS-AM, Chicago. As had been teased prior to the holidays, Erich Mancow Muller is the new morning drive personality on Cumulus Media’s Chicago news/talker WLS-AM. He’ll launch the new morning show tomorrow (1/3). Last month, the station announced that the morning team of Big John Howell and Ramblin’ Ray Stevens was exiting the morning daypart, but Howell stays with the station hosting the new 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm program. This is a return to WLS-AM for Muller. He co-hosted the midday show with Pat Cassidy from 2008 to 2010. Mancow had been hosting the morning program at classic rock WLUP-FM until last March when owner Merlin Media sold the signal to religious operator Educational Media Foundation. Since then, Muller has been off the air. He’ll once again be working for Marv Nyren, Cumulus Media’s vice president and market manager for Chicago. Interestingly, Nyren fired Muller from alternative WKQX in 2006 and when he became Cumulus’ market manager (Cumulus was operating WLUP under an LMA) in 2017, Muller sued him for harassment and emotional distress. However, the suit was dropped and the two have obviously overcome their differences. John Dempsey is still the morning news anchor and Midge “Luv Cheez” Ripoli will serve as the show’s executive producer.

KKOB-AM, Albuquerque Afternoon Host Scott Stiegler to Exit. Actually, Scott Stiegler is remaining with the Cumulus Media station and will move to the sales department. The station says it will have an announcement about the programming change on January 7, but New Mexico blogger Joe Monahan reports that former longtime morning rock jock T.J. Trout will take over the afternoon drive show. Trout served with iHeartMedia’s crosstown KZRR “94 Rock” for 25 years until he exited the station in 2011. According to Monahan, Trout is returning to the market after retiring to his hometown of Cleveland in 2011.

Salem Debuts Sebastian Gorka on 340 Affiliates and 24/7 in Washington. New Year’s Day marked the national syndication debut of “America First with Dr. Sebastian Gorka” from Salem Radio Network. In addition to launching on some 340 affiliate stations across the country, the program is being heard in the Washington, DC market on four signals – including round the clock on Salem-owned WSPZ-AM. The show can also be heard in DC on Salem’s news/talk WWRC “AM 570 The Answer,” WAVA-AM, and WAVA-HD2.

2019: Welcome to the Golden Age of Audio. Consultant Holland Cooke launches a new, weekly column in TALKERS magazine called the “Monday Memo” in which he outlines “techniques proven to produce results and how these timeless basics advantage us on the changing media landscape.” Coming on Monday (1/7) at Talkers.com, Cooke will address “how smart stations score smartphone clicks and earn digital dollars podcasting.” Meanwhile, read today’s introductory piece explaining some of the good news/bad news scenarios facing the radio business here.

Davis Media to Launch ‘All News 102’ in Virginia Beach. The current triple A format on Davis Media’s WXTG-FM, Virginia Beach; WXTG-AM, Hampton; and W270DA, Hampton is flipping to all-news on Monday (1/7). Davis Media says, “Listeners can expect ‘All-News 102’ to feature a wide variety of national and local news. Our content partners include ABC Radio, NBC Sports Radio, Bloomberg Radio, Accuweather, Reliant Traffic, Associated Press, Virginia News Network, and content from our sister publications, wydaily.com and southsidedaily.com. While the focus for the station is news and not talk – community conversation will have its place. Throughout each newsday, ‘All-News 102’ will host discussions with local newsmakers regarding compelling, focused topics to inform communities and promote more thoughtful daily considerations and learnings for audiences.” The triple A format continues on the company’s WTYD-FM, Deltaville, Virginia.

SB Nation Announces New Programming. The national radio syndication lineup of SB Nation Radio has a few changes in the New Year. The KDUS-AM, Phoenix-based “Calling All Sports” show featuring Roc, Manuch, and Crespin airs on the network in the 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm ET slot. The show has been airing on KDUS-AM for the past 14 years. Other changes include Jake Asman hosting “The Power Hour” from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm ET and Dave Smith joining the network for weekend show hosting duties.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. On-air pro Vinny D joins Beasley Media Group’s hip hop WMGC, Detroit “105.1 The Bounce” as afternoon drive personality. He was most recently with Urban Radio’s hip hop WMSR-FM “Power 94.9” and urban contemporary WMXV “V101.5” in Tuscumbia, Alabama. WMGC program director John Candelaria comments, “We are thrilled to find a diamond in the rough. He is authentic and funny. Detroit is a blue-collar city and Vinny D is eager to roll up his sleeves and serve our community!”…..Entercom adds Greg “Grego” Onofrio to the air staff of adult hits KKHH, Houston “95.7 The Spot.” Onofrio was previously an anchor and on-camera commentator at KIAH-TV, Houston “CW 39” where he hosted “NewsFix,” an alternative presentation to traditional local news. Before working in television, he hosted “Outlaw Radio” on then-rock KLOL-FM, Houston. nighttime show at Rock 101 KLOL in Houston…..Cumulus Media flips country WIWF, Charleston, South Carolina to classic hits as “The All-New 96.9 The Wolf.” Cumulus Charleston vice president and market manager Sherry Dollar says, “Our New Year’s resolution is to be the station that only plays the best of Charleston’s classic hits. We think listeners will love hearing the songs that have stood the test of time and are now classics! Their all-time favorites all have a home at 96.9 FM.”…..In the Akron-Canton market, iHeartMedia debuts new adult contemporary outlet WHOF-FM “SUNNY 101.7, Variety from the 80s, 90s and Today.” The station is airing 5,000 commercial-free songs in a row and says it will have details about its new air personality lineup in the coming weeks…..Beasley Media Group launches new classic rock outlet WPBB-FM, Tampa “98.7FM The Shark” that is focused on rock songs from the 80s and 90s. The station begins airing the Detroit-based “Dave & Chuck the Freak” in mornings on Monday (1/7). Beasley EVP of programming Justin Chase says, “It’s been many years since Tampa Bay had a true classic rock station on a full signal and we’re excited to offer the next generation of classic rock to such a great rock market.”…..Cumulus Media names Summer James midday personality for adult contemporary WTCB, Columbia, South Carolina “B106.7.” James has worked for Cumulus in Los Angeles. She says, “I’m so excited to be joining this great team on the air in the Capital City. They have a winning philosophy, I love South Carolina, and we have the signal to rock the state in 2019!”

December 2018 PPM Data – Round One. REVISED information for the December 2018 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 December 2018 survey period covered November 8 – December 5. 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.

New York City

Spoken-Word Formats – As a result of being off three-tenths in consecutive months (2.3 – 2.0 – 1.7, October-November-December, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WOR “710 The Voice of New York” completely forfeits its cumulative +.6 in September and October (1.7 – 2.0 – 2.3, 6+) and departs the top twenty (#19 to #21). In addition to posting its eighth straight monthly report without a loss for an overall +.5 (1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.6, 6+), Townsquare Media news/talk WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” climbs from #23 to #22. Up or flat the fifth straight month for a net gain of three-tenths (.9 – .9 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.2 – 1.2, 6+), Cumulus Media news/talk WABC checks in at #24.

Following November’s loss of seven-tenths, Entercom sports talk WFAN is down another two-tenths (3.7 – 3.5, eighth to tenth, 6+). The flagship of the Yankees, New York Giants, and Brooklyn Nets was -.8 in September and +.5 in October; 4.7 in May, July and August is its best 6+-showing since November 2017’s 5.2. Without a loss the past four months for an overall gain of four-tenths (1.4 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1. 7 – 1.8, 6+), WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” forfeits three-tenths to 1.5 (6+) and departs the top twenty (#20 to #23). The New York Jets and New York Knicks flagship was locked on 1.7 (6+) in May and June.

Frozen on 4.2 (6+) in July, August, and September, Entercom all-news WINS was then stymied at 4.4 (6+) in October and November before dropping one-tenth in December to 4.3 but advances from sixth to fifth. Co-owned/similarly-formatted WCBS-AM is a combined +.8 in four consecutive positive spikes (2.6 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 3.2 – 3.4, 6+) yet backslides from a three-way tie at #11 to #12.

The rollercoaster ride continues for WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s news/talk WNYC-FM, which was a cumulative -.7 (May, June, and July); +.7 (August); -.6 (September); +.6 (October); -.4 (November); and now +.6 in December (3.0 – 3.6, #15 to #9, 6+). For the third month in a row, co-owned news/talk WNYC-AM logs a .5 (steady at #28, 6+). Prior to September’s .6 (6+), WNYC-AM recorded a .5 (6+) three times in a row.

New York City Music Formats – After being down by four-tenths in back-to-back survey periods (7.5 – 7.1 – 6.7, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW “106.7 Lite FM” roars back with a +2.4 in December to 9.1 (6+) and is #1 for the 17^th successive sweep. An overall -1.6 through three setbacks in succession (8.5 – 7.7 – 7.3 – 6.9, 6+), WLTW (which was 8.8, 6+, in December 2017) was a combined +.6 in August and September (6.9 – 7.1 – 7.5, 6+). With a consistent July 2018 through November 2018 topline of 6.2 – 6.3 – 6.4 – 6.2 – 6.3 (6+), Entercom classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM sputters by nine-tenths in December to 5.4, but “101.1 New York’s Greatest Hits” carries on in third-place. Four successive up or flat trends by Emmis urban AC WBLS accounted for a net +1.2 (5.3 – 5.3 – 5.6 – 6.0 – 6.5, 6+); however, “107.5 – #1 For R&B” returns two-thirds of that increase (5.7, -.8, flat at #2, 6+). In five-share range (6+) for 33 sweeps in succession, WBLS recorded a 6.1 (6+) in June 2018. Flat at #8, rhythmic CHR cluster-mate WQHT “Hot 97” 6+), is without an increase for the sixth straight time for a cumulative loss of three-tenths (4.0 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.7, 6+). Up a collective half-share in October and November (4.3 – 4.7 – 4.8, 6+), Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish tropical WSKQ “La Mega 97.9” surrenders six-tenths to 4.2 (fifth to seventh, 6+). Co-owned Spanish contemporary WPAT “Amor 93.1,” which had been up or flat the past four ratings periods in succession for an overall gain of nine-tenths (2.5 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 3.2 – 3.4, 6+), drops one-tenth to 3.3 (6+) and departs the top ten (#10 to #13).

Los Angeles

Spoken-Word Formats – Even though it is without an increase the seventh time in a row for a collective loss of nine-tenths (4.4 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.6 – 3.5, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk KFI “AM 640” manages to climb from seventh to sixth. Salem Media Group news/talk KRLA “AM 870 The Answer” and iHeartMedia news/talk KEIB “AM 1150 The Patriot” are tied at #31 with identical profiles (1.1 – .8, -.3, 6+). In consecutive sweeps, Cumulus Media-owned KABC “790 News-Talk-Evolved” gains two-tenths (.3 – .5 – .7, #40 to #35, 6+).

Practically doubling its 6+-stat (+.7) through three positive spikes in a row (.8 – .9 – 1.3 – 1.5, 6+), Los Angeles Rams’ AM flagship KSPN “710 ESPN” forfeits two-tenths to 1.3 (#25 to #26, 6+). Prior to August’s loss of four-tenths, KSPN gained one-tenth in three straight sweeps (.9 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.2, 6+). Following ten (10) successive ratings periods without a loss – in which time it more than quintupled (+1.7) its 6+ AQH share (.4 – .4 – .5 – .9 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.7 – 2.1, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KLAC “AM 570 LA Sports” erodes by two-thirds (-1.4) to .7 (6+), plummeting from #22 to #35. KLAC is the flagship of the NL champion Los Angeles Dodgers and is among the key stations of the NFL’s Los Angeles Chargers.

A gain of three-tenths (2.8 – 3.1, 6+) propels Entercom’s KNX “1070 News Radio” back into the top ten (#11 to #9).

The ten (10) most recent 6+ stats for Pasadena City College news/talk KPCC “The Voice of Southern California” (#unchanged at #14) are an extremely steady 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.6 – 2.7 – 2.5.

Los Angeles Music Formats – Over and above repeating at #1, iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST racks up a +3.9 and is up for the fourth month in succession for an overall +4.4 (4.6 – 4.7 – 4.9 – 5.1 – 9.0, 6+). In December 2017, “Coast 103.5” was 8.7 (6+). While unchanged at #3, Entercom classic hits-oldies KRTH is a collective -.7 as a result of four straight down or flat trends (5.1 – 5.0 – 5.0 – 4.5 – 4.4, 6+).“K-Earth 101” was on top in October 2018. Prior to that sweep, the last time a non-iHeartMedia-owned station was #1 in Los Angeles was November 2015 – and it was “K-Earth” with a 5.7 (6+). Sandwiched between KOST and KRTH is iHeartMedia hot AC KBIG “104.3 My-FM,” which gains two-tenths to 4.9 (6+), thus snapping at five a consecutive string of decreases that resulted in an overall loss of -1.1 (5.8 – 5.7 – 5.6 – 5.5 – 4.8 – 4.7, 6+). When “My-FM” was dislodged from the top spot in October, it halted a streak of five successive months at #1. As the result of four consecutive upticks (1.6 – 1.8 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.3, 6+), KUSC is a collective +.7 as the University of Southern California classical outlet enters the top twenty (#19). Finishing at #23, Univision Radio regional Mexican KSCA “Zona MX 101.9” is without an increase for the seventh time in a row for an overall loss of nine-tenths (2.6 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.0 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.7, 6+). Meanwhile, Liberman Broadcasting’s similarly-formatted KBUE “Que Buena” is down or flat for the fourth straight sweep for a -.3 (2.5 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.3 – 2.2, 6+) but stays at #20. In the market’s alternative contest, iHeartMedia’s KYSR “Alt 98.7” returns the three-tenths it gained in November (2.7 – 2.4, #14 to #16, 6+), while Entercom’s KROQ is down or flat for the fourth successive sweep for a -.7 (2.9 – 2.8 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.2, 6+), dipping from #17 to #20. Unchanged at #5, smooth AC sibling – KTWV “94.7 The Wave” – is nonetheless off one-half share in December (4.3 – 3.8, 6+). The June 2018 – September 2018 (6+) topline for KXOS was 2.0 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.3, but regional Mexican “Mega 96.3” is unlisted for the third sweep in a row.

Chicago

Spoken-Word Formats – After logging three straight up or flat trends for a collective +.7 (2.5 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 3.2, 6+), Tribune Media news/talk WGN returns six-tenths to 2.6 (6+) and spirals from #11 to #18. Entering the August sweep, the key station of the Chicago White Sox notched three consecutive gains for a combined +1.0 (2.0 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 3.0, 6+). Dropping from #22 to #23, Cumulus Media news/talk WLS-AM has a May through December topline of 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.4. Its +.2 in July ended four consecutive down or flat moves that accounted for a one-half share loss (2.0 – 2.0 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.5, 6+).

An increase of one-tenth (2.8 – 2.9, 6+) by Entercom sports talk WSCR (flagship for both the Cubs and Bulls) is enough to boost “670 The Score” from #18 to a three-way tie at #12. WSCR was up eight-tenths in September and then -1.5 in October and November (4.3 – 4.2 – 2.8, 6+). In four straight sweeps without a loss (1.0 – 1.2 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5, 6+), ESPN-owned WMVP “ESPN Chicago 1000” (#23 to #22) is up one half-share.

Notwithstanding it is a collective +1.1 in four consecutive months without a loss (4.6 – 4.8 – 5.6 – 5.7 – 5.7, 6+), Entercom news outlet WBBM-AM shifts from first to second. Immediately in advance of this streak, the Chicago Bears flagship logged six straight down or flat showings for a collective -.7 (5.3 – 5.1 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 4.8 – 4.6 – 4.6, 6+).

Up or flat for the fourth month in a row for a +.7 (2.2 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.9 – 2.9, 6+), Chicago Public Media news/talk WBEZ has its best 6+-showing (2.9) since April’s 3.0 and leaps from #16 to that aforementioned three-way scrum at #12.

Chicago Music Formats – In what has become a tradition when it transitions to all-Christmas music, iHeartMedia adult contemporary-turned hot AC-turned adult contemporary WLIT “93.9 Lite FM” registers a lofty +5.2 (3.2 – 8.4, 6+) and catapults from #11 all the way to #1. WLIT, which displaces Entercom all-news WBBM-AM at the top spot, was 8.5 in December 2017. Coming in at #15 and #16, respectively, are WLIT’s AC rivals – Hubbard’s WSHE (3.1 – 2.8, -.3, #13 to #15, 6+) and Venture Technologies Group AC WRME-LP “FM 87.7 Me TV” (#9 to #16, 6+). Until surrendering its entire half-share increase in October to 2.6 (6+), WSHE had been without a loss five consecutive months for a +.5 (2.6 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.1, 6+). In November, however, WSHE regained that half-share decline in its entirety (3.1 – 2.6 – 3.1, 6+). WRME-LP is down or flat for the fourth successive time for a collective -1.1 (3.8 – 3.8 – 3.4 – 3.3 – 2.7, 6+). Sliding from fourth to seventh, Cumulus Media-owned WLS-FM “94.7 Chicago’s Classic Hits” is a cumulative -1.4 in three straight drops (5.4 – 5.0 – 4.8 – 4.0, 6+). A loss of six-tenths (2.9 – 2.3, #16 to #19, 6+) takes alternative WKQX to its lowest 6+-showing (2.3) in exactly one year (December 2017‘s 2.2). Four consecutive increases by Univision Radio regional Mexican WOJO netted +1.4 (4.0 – 4.8 – 5.0 – 5.3 – 5.4, 6+) but “Que Buena 105.1” sputters by seven-tenths to 4.7 (6+) and slips from second to fourth. Following three straight showings of 3.7 (6+), Entercom-owned WUSN “US-99 Chicago’s Hottest Country” drops three-tenths to 3.4 (seventh to ninth, 6+) and is within 3.0 – 3.9 range for the 17^th consecutive ratings period. At the same time, iHeartMedia’s WEBG “Big 95.5 – Chicago’s New Country” is without a gain for the fourth straight month for a collective -.4 (1.8 – 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.4 – 1.4, 6+) and remains at #23. Steady at #3, iHeartMedia urban AC WVAZ “V-103” is a collective -.8 in five straight down or flat trends (6.1 – 6.0 – 5.7 – 5.7 – 5.3 – 5.3, 6+).

San Francisco

Spoken-Word Formats – Wiping away October’s seven-tenths’ increase with a collective -.8 in November and December (3.1 – 2.6 – 2.3, 6+), Cumulus Media news/talk KSFO drops from #14 to #16. KSFO was a combined -1.0 in August and September (3.4 – 3.0- 2.4, 6+). Cluster-mate KGO is unchanged from November (2.1, 6+) but slips from #18 to #19. August’s increase of four-tenths ended four successive down or flat trends that resulted in a collective loss of three-tenths (2.0 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.7, 6+).

Returning all but one-tenth of November’s +.4 (2.9 – 2.6, -.3, 6+), co-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” regresses from #13 to #14. Prior to November, KNBR was without an increase in the previous three ratings periods for a cumulative -1.2 (3.7 – 3.7 – 2.9 – 2.5, 6+). By recapturing the two-tenths it lost in November and one-tenth more (1.9 – 2.2, +.3, 6+), Entercom’s similarly-formatted KGMZ “95.7 The Game” returns to the top twenty (#21 to #17). KGMZ was a combined +.6 in three straight up or flat trends (1.5 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.1, 6+), before faltering by two-tenths in November.

Despite logging a gain of four-tenths (5.3 – 5.7, 6+), all-news cluster-mate KCBS-AM segues from second – where it had been the past ten (10) sweeps – to third. Frozen on 5.4 (6+) in April and May, KCBS-AM was then stuck on 5.5 (6+) in June and July.

In addition to tacking on two-tenths to November’s +.7 (6.7 – 7.4 – 7.6, 6+), Northern California Public Broadcasting news/talk KQED is #1 for the 11^th straight month. This (7.6) is its best 6+-performance since May’s 8.1. Its gain of four-tenths in September ended five downward trends in a row that accounted for a -2.5 (8.9 – 8.4 – 8.1 – 7.1 – 6.7 – 6.4, 6+). Inching up from #31 to #30, San Francisco Unified School District’s KALW “91.7 Local Public Radio” has its sixth straight up or flat trend for a collective +.3 (.4 – .5 – .5 – .5 – .6 – .6 – .7, 6+).

San Francisco Music Formats – Rebounding from a November dip of two-tenths (3.9 – 3.7, 6+), Bonneville-owned adult contemporary KOIT-FM counters with a +2.7 to 6.4 (6+), leaping from sixth to second. Meanwhile, its AC rival – iHeartMedia’s KISQ “98.1 The Breeze” – is off a combined six-tenths in November and December (4.7 – 4.4 – 4.1, 6+) and falls from third to fourth. Not only does KDFC post a one-half share increase for the second straight sweep (2.1 – 2.6 – 3.1, 6+), the University of Southern California-owned classical outlet zooms into the top ten (#14 to #9). After being an overall +1.1 in six straight up or flat sweeps (2.3 – 2.4 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.3 – 3.4, 6+), Cumulus Media classic rocker KSAN “107.7 The Bone” falters by six-tenths to 2.8 (6+) and exits the top ten (#10 to #13). Prior to August, “The Bone” recorded a 6+-share between 2.0 – 2.9 in each of the previous 40 sweeps. Directly on the heels of November’s +.8, (2.8 – 3.6, 6+) KOSF “iHeart 80s @ 103.7” surrenders six-tenths to 3.0 (seventh to tenth, 6+). As a result of a one-half share decline (3.5 – 3.0, 6+), co-owned urban contemporary KMEL “106.1 #1 for Hip-Hop and R&B” has its lowest 6+-stat (3.0) since November 2017’s 2.6 and is tied with KOSF at #10.

Dallas

Spoken-Word Formats – Without a loss the past five months for a collective +1.1 (2.1 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 2.8 – 3.2, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WBAP forfeits nearly half that increase (2.7, -.5, #13 to #16, 6+). Immediately in advance of the September sweep, “News Talk 820” posted a 2.2 (6+) in three of the previous five sweeps (2.2 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.2, 6+). Flat at #35, Salem Media Group-owned KSKY “660 AM The Answer” is an overall -.3 in three straight down or flat trends (.9 – .9 – .7 – .6, 6+), while Cumulus Media’s KLIF-AM “570 News & Information” is without an increase for the third time in a row (.5 – .4 – .4 – .4, flat at #36, 6+).

Even though it is off a collective three-tenths in November and December (3.2 – 3.1 – 2.9, 6+), Cumulus Media-owned KTCK “The Ticket – All Sports, All The Time” advances from #15 to #14. Meanwhile, Entercom’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” has its fifth straight sweep without a loss for a +.5 (2.1 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.6, steady at #18, 6+). On the other hand, ESPN’s KESN “103.3 ESPN Dallas,” which was a collective +.3 in four straight up or flat moves (.9 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.2 – 1.2, 6+), is off one-tenth to 1.1 (#29 to #31, 6+).

Down or flat for the fourth straight time (2.3 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.0, 6+), Entercom news-talk hybrid KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” actually progresses from #21 to a tie at #20. Going back to “Holiday” 2016, KRLD-AM is within a high of 2.8 and a low of 2.0.

After posting three increases in a row for an overall gain of seven-tenths (2.6 – 3.0 – 3.1 – 3.3, 6+), North Texas Public Broadcasting news/talk KERA returns two-tenths to 3.1 (#11 to #13, 6+). Before September’s +.4 to 3.0, KERA logged a 6+-stat in the two-share range for 37 consecutive sweeps.

Dallas Music Formats – In seven successive sweeps without a loss, iHeartMedia adult contemporary KDGE “Star 102.1” has nearly doubled (+2.4) its 6+-stat (2.7 – 2.9 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.5 – 3.7 – 5.1, 6+), vaulting from ninth to third. “Star” (5.1, 6+) is up one-tenth from where it was a year ago (5.0, December 2017, 6+). A combined +1.2 in three successive upticks (3.2 – 3.8 – 4.0 – 4.4, 6+), Salem Media Group contemporary Christian KLTY “94.9 Your Life … Inspired” progresses from seventh to fourth. Down one-half share in November (6.6 – 6.1, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KHKS “106.1 Kiss – Dallas/Fort Worth’s Hit Music” bounces back with a +.2 to 6.3 (6+) and is on top for the 12^th straight time. “Kiss” was +1.1 in August, after a combined -1.4 in June and July (6.9 – 6.3 – 5.5, 6+). Flat at #19, Service Broadcasting urban AC KRNB “105.7 Smooth R&B” is a combined -1.0 via five consecutive sweeps without an increase (3.1 – 3.1 – 2.9 – 2.8 – 2.3 – 2.1, 6+). Albeit that Cumulus Media’s KSCS is -1.1 in five straight down or flat reports (5.2 – 4.3 – 4.3 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.1, fourth to sixth, 6+), “New Country 96.3” overtakes similarly-programmed sibling KPLX “99.5 The Wolf” (4.1 – 3.6, -.5, fourth to tenth, 6+). An October gain by “The Wolf” halted six straight down or flat trends that accounted for an overall loss of three-tenths; its May through November topline was 4.2 – 4.2 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.1 (6+). July’s 5.2 represents the best-ever 6+ share in KSCS’ PPM history and the first time it ever reached the five-share level (6+). Despite being off a cumulative one-half share in four straight down or flat trends (3.7 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.2 – 3.2, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KEGL “97.1 The Eagle Rocks” advances from #13 to #11.

Houston

Spoken-Word Formats – A December loss of seven-tenths (4.3 – 3.6, 6+) by iHeartMedia news/talk KTRH erases its November gain of six-tenths and sends “News Radio 740” out of the top ten (#7 to #11). November’s 4.3 was its strongest 6+-stat since February 2017’s 4.4. KTRH was a combined -.9 in August and September (4.1 – 3.6 – 3.2, 6+) and up one-half share in October.

The AM flagship of the Houston Texans – Entercom’s KILT-AM “Sports Radio 610” – is a collective +.4 in five straight up or flat trends (.9 .9 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.3, #22, 6+). Gow Communications’ KFNC “ESPN 97.5” notches a .8 for the third straight month (#25 to #27, 6+), while KTRH cluster-mate/Houston Astros flagship KBME “Sports Talk 790,” which was trending 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.3 – 1.1 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.1 (6+), falters by one-half share to .6 (#22 to #28, 6+).

In five successive down or flat moves, University of Houston news/talk KUHF is off one full-share (3.4 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.0 – 2.4 – 2.4, 6+) but carries on at #20.

Houston Music Formats – On top for the eighth month in a row, iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA “Sunny 99.1” dials up a +2.2 (7.5 – 9.7, 6+). “Sunny” recorded an 8.9 (6+) in December 2017. Its 12.5 in “Holiday” 2017 is the station’s strongest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2016’s 10.3 and the first time any Houston facility reached double-digits (6+) since that particular ratings period. KODA has a 1.7-share (6+) advantage over Univision Radio regional Mexican KLTN “Que Buena 102.9,” which is a collective +3.3 via five successive positive spikes (4.7 – 5.0 – 5.2 – 6.0 – 6.8 – 8.0, 6+) and remains in the runner-up slot. In three successive declines, Cox Media Group’s KKBQ “93-Q Country” is a collective -1.5 (5.4 – 4.7 – 4.6 – 3.9, sixth to eighth, 6+). Its format foe, Entercom’s KILT-FM “New Country 100.3 The Bull,” returns November’s +.1 (3.5 – 3.6 – 3.5, 6+) yet climbs from #14 to #13. Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KOVE “Amor 106.5” is down by one-half share (4.1 – 3.6, flat at #11, 6+). Three straight upticks by KOVE accounted for an overall +1.7 (2.8 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 4.5, 6+), but “Amor 106.5” lost four-tenths in November. A 4.5 (6+) in October 2018 enabled it to reach the four-share level for the first time since October 2016. Faltering by one-half share as well, Entercom adult hits KKHH “95.7 The Spot” is a collective -2.0 in four successive downward moves (5.7 – 5.0 – 4.9 – 4.2 – 3.7, ninth to tenth, 6+). It is one-tenth behind iHeartMedia alternative KTBZ “94.5 The Buzz,” an overall -1.2 via six straight sweeps without an increase (5.0 – 5.0 – 4.7 – 4.5 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.8, flat at #9, 6+). For the seventh ratings period in succession, Radio One CHR KROI “92.1 Radio Now” is without an increase for a collective loss of four-tenths (1.2 – 1.1 – .9 – .9 – .9 – .9 – .8 – .8, #26, 6+).

Atlanta

Spoken-Word Formats – A collective +1.1 in three straight positive spikes (7.5 – 7.9 – 8.2 – 8.6, 6+), Cox Media Group news/talk WSB-AM forfeits seven-tenths to 7.9 (6+) but is #1 for the 37^th consecutive time. Even though Cumulus Media’s WYAY gains one-tenth (1.3 – 1.4, 6+), “106.6 Where Atlanta Comes to Talk” departs the top twenty (#20 to #21); WYAY was -1.0 in August (2.3 – 1.3, 6+). Logging its sixth sweep in a row without a loss for an overall gain of one-half share (.1 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .4 – .5 – .6 -.6, 6+), Entercom news/talk WAOK nonetheless backslides from #27 to #28.

Off three-tenths in November, co-owned sports talk/Atlanta Falcons flagship WZGC “92.9 The Game” answers with a +.6 (3.6 – 4.2, 6+) and zooms into the top ten (#13 to #9). Prior to November, WZGC was an overall +1.7 in four positive spikes in succession (2.2 – 2.5 – 3.2 – 3.3 – 3.9, 6+). Following three straight down or flat trends for a collective -.5 in that stretch (2.4 – 2.0 – 1.9 – 1.9, 6+), Dickey Broadcasting’s WCNN “Sports Radio The Fan” picks up one-tenth to 2.0 (flat at #19, 6+). When the Atlanta Braves flagship lost two-tenths in July, it halted seven successive sweeps without a decrease that netted eight-tenths (1.2 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.3 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.0, 6+).

As a result of five straight up or flat trends, City of Atlanta Board of Education news/talk WABE is a collective +1.2 (3.1 – 3.5 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 4.3, tenth to seventh, 6+). This directly follows five consecutive down or flat sweeps for an overall -1.4 (4.5 – 4.5 – 4.2 – 4.0 – 3.8 – 3.1, 6+). Georgia State University news/talk WRAS returns all but one-tenth of November’s +.4 (.6 – 1.0 – .7, #24 to #25, 6+).

Atlanta Music Formats – Following three negative trends in succession that accounted for an overall -1.5 (5.9 – 5.3 – 4.8 – 4.4, 6+), Salem Media Group contemporary Christian WFSH “The Fish” erases two-thirds of the deficit with a +1.0 to 5.4 (seventh to fourth, 6+). August’s 5.9 is the strongest 6+-showing for “The Fish” since its 6.0 in January. At this time last month, two-tenths of a share separated Cumulus Media-owned WKHX “Kicks 101.5 – Atlanta’s #1 For Country Hits” and its format rival, iHeartMedia’s WUBL “94.9 The Bull.” The two country outlets though are now part of a three-way tie at #10 as “Kicks” is up one-tenth (3.7 – 3.8, +.2, flat at #10, 6+), while “The Bull” gains three-tenths (3.5 – 3.8, #14 to #10, 6+). A combined +.7 in September and October (3.3 – 3.4 – 4.0, 6+), “Kicks” returned three-tenths in November. After three consecutive decreases that led to a -1.1 (4.0 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 2.9, 6+), “The Bull” responded with a November gain of six-tenths. Three straight downward moves by Radio One-owned WHTA resulted in a combined -1.4 (4.7 – 4.2 – 3.6 – 3.3, 6+), but “Hot 107.9” is up three-tenths to 3.6 (#15 to #14, 6+). Its May through August topline was 4.6 – 4.7 – 4.6 – 4.7 (6+). Cumulus Media-owned rhythmic CHR WWWQ-HD3 more than doubles (+1.0) its 6+-stat in three straight upticks (.8 – 1.2 -1.3 – 1.8, flat at #20, 6+), while Davis Broadcasting regional Mexican WLKQ “LA Raza” debuts with a .7 (#25, 6+). The market’s (6+) mainstream CHR share shrinks by -1.8 as iHeartMedia’s WWPW “Power 96.1 Atlanta’s #1 Hit Music Station” is -1.2 (3.3, #6 to #15, 6+) and Cumulus Media’s WWWQ “Q-100 Atlanta’s New Hits” is -.6 (4.4 – 3.8, #7 to #10, 6+). “Power” had been without a loss the past seven sweeps for a cumulative +1.1 (3.4 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.5, 6+). When “Q-100” lost one-tenth in October, it snapped at four a consecutive string of up or flat moves that netted three-tenths (4.0 – 4.0 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 4.3, 6+). Within 3.6 – 3.9 range (6+) in each of the last seven survey periods (3.6 – 3.6 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.8, 6+), Entercom hot AC WSTR “Star 94.1” is off six-tenths to 3.2 (#11 to #16), its lowest 6+-showing since April’s 2.5.

Philadelphia

Spoken-Word Formats – Seven straight ratings periods without a decrease netted Entercom’s WPHT a +1.4, nearly doubling its 6+ AQH share (1.5 – 1.6 – 1.7 – 2.2 – 2.5 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 2.9, 6+). That streak, however, ends in December as “Talk Radio 1210” falters by eight-tenths to 2.1 (#14 to #18, 6+). Up one-tenth in back-to-back sweeps (1.3 – 1.4 – 1.5, September-October-November, 6+), Townsquare Media news/talk WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” returns to 1.3 in December (-.2, #20 to #23, 6+).

Stable at 6.3 (6+), Entercom’s WIP “Sports Radio 94.1,” which was #1 in October, proceeds from sixth to fourth. The flagship of the Eagles and Phillies was -.8 (February); -2.9 (March); +1.1 (April); -.8 (May); -.5 (June); +.7 (August); +1.4 (October); and -1.0 (November). Flat at #15, Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” is without a loss for the third time in a row for an overall +.9 (1.8 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.7, 6+). Prior to October, the key station of the 76ers and Flyers was without an improvement the previous five months for an overall -1.0 (2.8 – 2.3 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 1.9 – 1.8, 6+).

Entercom’s KYW “News Radio 1060” is down one-tenth (5.2 – 5.1, 6+), yet climbs from eighth to seventh; KYW was up seven-tenths in August.

A loss of four-tenths to 3.0 (#12 to #11, 6+) by public news/talk WHYY ends a down/up pattern that began in June (3.6 – 3.3 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 3.4, 6+). An August increase of one-half share interrupted three successive declines for an overall -1.1 (4.4 – 3.7 – 3.6 – 3.3, 6+).

Philadelphia Music Formats – On top from March through June before being dislodged in July, Entercom adult contemporary WBEB returns to #1 (6.5 – 10.4, +3.9, fourth to first, 6+); “Today’s 101.1 More FM” was 12.8 (6+) in December 2017. Immediately prior to October, WBEB was a collective -2.2 in three consecutive decreases (8.5 – 7.8 – 6.5 – 6.3, 6+). It displaces co-owned classic hits-oldies WOGL “98.1 – Nobody Plays More 80s,” which erases November’s +.6 with a December -1.0 (7.4 – 6.4, 6+) and falls to third. That November increase of six-tenths pulled the plug on three straight negative trends that accounted for a combined -1.4 (8.2 – 7.5 – 7.0 – 6.8, 6+). WOGL finished first in August and segued to second in September. July’s 8.2 represents its highest-ever 6+-stat in the PPM-era. Frozen on 6.6 (6+) in October and November, iHeartMedia urban AC WDAS-FM “Philly’s Best R&B and Throwbacks” breaks out a +.8 to 7.4 (third to second, 6+). On the heels of November’s increase of six-tenths, Entercom’s WXTU “92.5 Philadelphia’s Country Station” erodes by -1.1 (5.4 – 4.3, seventh to eighth, 6+). After a September gain of four-tenths, WXTU surrendered more than twice that increase with a loss of nine-tenths. This is its lowest 6+-showing since February (4.3, as well). In mid-November, iHeartMedia transitioned rhythmic hot AC WISX “Real 106.1” to adult contemporary as “106.1 The Breeze – Philly’s Relaxing Favorites.” In its first report as an AC, “The Breeze” is off eight-tenths (3.3 – 2.5, #13 to #17, 6+). Trending 6.8 – 6.6 – 6.8 – 6.9 (August through November, 6+), Beasley Media Group’s WMGK “Classic Rock 102.9 MGK” shrinks by seven-tenths to 6.2 (second to fifth, 6+), its lowest 6+-share since 5.2 in “Holiday” 2017. Off six-tenths each are co-owned WMMR “93.3 Everything That Rocks” (5.9, fourth to sixth, 6+) and iHeartMedia alternative WRFF “Radio 104.5 Philly’s Alternative Rock” (3.5 – 2.9, #11 to #13, 6+). WMMR had been an overall +1.1 via four straight up or flat trends (5.4 – 6.0 – 6.1 – 6.1 – 6.5, 6+).

Long Island

Spoken-Word Formats – After doubling its 6+ share (+1.8) in September and October (1.8 – 2.8 – 3.6, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WOR “710 The Voice of New York” is a combined -1.4 in November and December (3.6 – 3.1 – 2.2, #14 to #15, 6+). Cumulus Media news/talk WABC is down or flat for the third straight sweep (1.5 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.3, #25 to #26, 6+). Its August increase of one-tenth stopped four consecutive down or flat moves that accounted for a loss of three-tenths (1.5 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.2, 6+).

Not only is Entercom sports talk WFAN off by four-tenths (4.8 – 4.4, 6+), the flagship of the Giants, Brooklyn Nets, and Yankees slumps from a three-way tie at #1 to #5. WFAN had been on top the past four months. It wiped away October’s +.6 with a November loss of eight-tenths. October’s 5.6 was the strongest 6+-showing in Long Island for WFAN since November 2017’s 5.9. The flagship of the New York Jets – WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” – is a collective -.3 in November and December (2.2 – 2.1 – 1.9, #16 to #19, 6+). As was the case with WFAN, similarly-programmed WEPN gained six-tenths in October (1.6 – 2.2, 6+). “ESPN New York” had been off seven-tenths in four straight down or flat trends (2.3 – 2.0 – 1.8 – 1.6 – 1.6, #22, 6+), immediately after five consecutive upticks for a +1.2 (1.1 – 1.2 – 1.3 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.3, 6+).

Separated by one-tenth of a share in November, Entercom all-news WINS (3.4 – 3.2, -.2, #11 to #9, 6+) and co-owned/similarly-formatted WCBS-AM (3.2, -.1, #12 to #9, 6+) are now tied. WINS was up six-tenths in October; WCBS-AM had been +.9 in six straight up or flat trends (2.4 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 3.3, 6+).

Unlisted the past two months, WNYC Broadcasting Foundation news/talk WNYC-FM resurfaces at #17 (1.9 – 2.0, +.1, 6+). From February 2018 – September 2018, WNYC-FM had been trending 1.6 – 1.9 – 1.6 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 2.0 (6+) and ranked #19 in September.

Long Island Music Formats – Roaring back from a one-half share November dip with an improvement more than four times that margin (4.4 – 6.5, +2.1, 6+), Connoisseur Media hot AC WALK-FM “97.5 – Real Variety” jumps from fourth to first. This (6.5) is its strongest 6+-performance since March (7.0). In addition, “Real Variety” breaks up November’s three-way logjam at #1, which included WFAN (see above); Entercom classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM “101.1 New York’s Greatest Hits” (4.8 – 5.3, +.5, first to third, 6+); and iHeartMedia mainstream CHR WHTZ “Z-100” (4.8 – 4.6, -.2, first to fourth, 6+). Following six straight months without an increase that accounted for a collective loss of four-tenths (5.1 – 5.0 – 5.0 – 4.9 – 4.8 – 4.7 – 4.7, 6+), “Z-100” picked up one-tenth in November. In three increases in succession, WCBS-FM was +1.2 (3.7 – 4.6 – 4.7 – 4.9, 6+). Immediately prior to that, however, it was a collective -1.2 via five straight down or flat trends (4.9 – 4.4 – 4.3 – 4.3 – 3.8 – 3.7, 6+). Two-tenths behind WALK-FM is iHeartMedia New York City adult contemporary WLTW “106.7 Lite FM,” which rockets from eighth to second and has more than doubled (+3.5) its 6+-stat in six sweeps in succession without a loss (2.8 – 2.9 – 3.3 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.8 – 6.3, 6+). “Lite FM” recorded a 4.5 (6+) in December 2017. Debuting or reappearing in print after a lengthy absence are Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WKLV “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” (.8, #29, 6+); Newark Public Radio’s WBGO “88.3 The Jazz Source” (.7, #30, 6+); Fordham University triple A WFUV “90.7 Music Discovery Starts Here” (.5, #33, 6+); and WNYC Broadcasting Foundation-owned WQXR “New York’s Classical Music Radio Station” (.5, #33, 6+). Dropping from #9 to #11, Cox Media Group-owned WBAB “102.3 – Long Island’s Only Classic Rock” is an overall -1.9 in five straight slips (5.0 – 4.5 – 4.3 – 3.7 – 3.3 – 3.1, 6+). Off eight-tenths to 3.1, its lowest 6+-showing since “Holiday” 2017 (3.0), Connoisseur Media classic hits-oldies WBZO “103.1 Max FM” drifts from #7 to #11. Also departing the top ten and part of the four-way logjam at #11 is Emmis urban AC WBLS “107.5 – #1 For R&B,” which is an overall -.8 in four straight down or flat trends (3.9 – 3.8 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.1, #9 to #11, 6+). Co-owned rhythmic CHR WQHT “Hot 97” is down or flat for the sixth consecutive time for an overall decline of nine-tenths (2.8 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.4 – 2.3 – 2.1 – 1.9, #16 to #19, 6+); “Hot 97” had been within 2.0 – 2.9 territory (6+) the previous 49 consecutive ratings periods. In five straight sweeps without an increase, Cumulus Media country WNSH is a collective -.9 (2.4 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.0 – 1.5, 6+) as “94.7 – Nash FM” fades from the top twenty (#18 to #26).

Riverside

Spoken-Word Formats – Debuting in July with a .2 (6+), iHeartMedia news talk KKDD gained one-tenth in August; was flat in September; up one-tenth in October; down two-tenths in November; and now “1290 News Talk IE” is flat at .2, remaining at #20 (6+).

It’s the same (November 2018 – December 2018) story for co-owned KPWK “Fox Sports Radio 1350 AM,” which is unchanged at .2/#20 (6+). The former KUBE disappeared from print in June; resurfaced in July (.2, 6+); dropped one-tenth in August; added one-tenth in both September and October; and dropped one-tenth in November. Similarly-formatted/Los Angeles Angels-owned (LAA 1, LLC) KLAA “Angels Radio AM 830” is unlisted for the 11^th month in a row.

Following three straight modest increases that accounted for a +.4 (1.3 – 1.4 – 1.6 – 1.7, 6+), San Bernardino Community College news/talk KVCR erases that gain with a -.4 to 1.3 (#11 to #12, 6+). The October 6+-share for Pasadena City College news/talk KPCC “The Voice of Southern California” is sliced in half in November and December (.6 – .4 – .3, #17 to #18, 6+).

Riverside Music Formats – A collective +.9 in three straight up or flat trends (2.3 – 2.3 – 2.7 – 3.2, 6+), Good News Radio contemporary Christian KSGN “89.7 – Family Friendly” bumps up from eighth to sixth, reaching the three-share level (3.2, 6+) for the first time since January 2018’s 3.1. Over and above being #1 for the seventh successive sweep, Entravision’s KLYY “Jose” dials up a +1.1 to 10.5, the largest 6+-stat for any station in the 12 PPM-markets highlighted in this particular overview; “Jose” was +2.5 in September. This (10.5) marks the first time any Riverside station has reached double-figures (6+) since April 2015, when KLYY recorded a 10.4. A loss of four-tenths in October ended five straight increases that netted an astonishing +5.3, more than doubling its 6+-stat since April (4.6 – 6.4 – 6.5 – 6.9 – 7.4 – 9.9, 6+). This follows five sweeps in succession without an increase for an overall -3.0 (7.6 – 7.3 – 5.8 – 5.8 – 5.0 – 4.6, 6+). June 2018 marked the first time “Jose” was in the lead position since “Holiday” 2017 when it scored a 7.3 (6+). An increase of six-tenths (2.3 – 2.9, ninth to seventh, 6+) elevates Liberman Broadcasting regional Mexican KRQB “Que Buena 96.1” to its best 6+-performance (2.9) since March (3.0). Despite being off four-tenths to 6.7 (6+), Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA is secured in the runner-up slot for the seventh month in a row. KOLA held the lead position in May with a 6.5 (6+). Its +.3 in July ended four downward trends in succession that generated a -2.1 (8.4 – 7.1 – 6.7 – 6.5 – 6.3, 6+). Co-owned KCAL-FM “96.7 Rocks,” which lost nearly half (-1.3) its 6+ AQH share as the result of six straight sweeps without an increase (2.8 – 2.8 – 2.7 – 2.4 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.5, 6+), picks up one-tenth to 1.6 (#12 to #11, 6+). Flat at 1.3 (#13 to #12, 6+), Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KRCD “Recuerdo” is in one-share range (6+) for the 16^th successive ratings period.

San Jose

Spoken-Word Formats – Following a November loss of eight-tenths, Cumulus Media’s KGO levels off at 2.2 and advances from #17 to #16. In advance of November’s -.8, KGO posted four upticks in a row for a cumulative +1.3 (1.7 – 1.9 – 2.4 – 2.8 – 3.0, 6+). Locked on 1.2 (6+) in October and November, co-owned news/talk KSFO forfeits two-tenths to 1.0 (#24 to #28, 6+). Its +.1 in October ended three consecutive downward moves that resulted in the vanishing of exactly half (-1.1) of its 6+-share (2.2 – 2.0 – 1.8 – 1.1, 6+).

Sports talk cluster-mate KNBR “The Sports Leader” is a combined -1.5 in four straight down or flat moves (4.4 – 3.4 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 2.9, #11 to #14, 6+), while Entercom sports talk KGMZ “95.7 The Game” adds four-tenths to November’s one-half share increase (.6 – 1.1 – 1.5, #26 to #23, 6+).

All-news sibling KCBS-AM, which was off by one-half share in November (6.2 – 5.7, 6+), is up two-tenths to 5.9 (6+), yet backslides from third to fifth.

Northern California Public Broadcasting news/talk KQED rebounded from July and August’s -1.6 (7.5 – 6.5 – 5.9, 6+) with a +.3 in September to 6.2 (6+), jumping from sixth to fourth. Unlisted in October and November, KQED returns in December at #2 (6.7, 6+). San Francisco Unified School District news/talk KALW debuts at #30 (.5, 6+).

San Jose Music Formats – Having recorded a gain of one-tenth in each of the last three sweeps, Entercom adult contemporary KOIT-FM erupts with a +2.7 (3.0 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.3 – 6.0, 6+), vaulting from tenth to fourth. On the heels of posting a one-half share improvement in November, iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR KYLD “Wild 94.9 – The Bay’s #1 Hit Music Station” tacks on eight-tenths (2.9 – 3.7, #12 to #11, 6+). An overall -2.4 as the result of three declines in succession (6.2 – 6.0 – 5.4 – 3.8, 6+), Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KBRG “Amor 100.3” erases one-quarter of that decrease with a +.6 to 4.4 (sixth to seventh, 6+). A collective -2.4 in three consecutive negative trends (6.1 – 5.4 – 4.5 – 3.7, 6+), Empire Broadcasting’s KRTY “San Jose Hot Country 95.3” rebounds with a +.4 to 4.1 (eighth to ninth, 6+). Prior to that streak, “Hot Country” was an overall +2.1 via five successive gains (4.0 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.5 – 5.1 – 6.1, 6+). November’s 3.7 marked the first time KRTY was below a four-share (6+) since January’s 3.8. In one fell swoop, KOSF “iHeart 80s @ 103.7” has virtually half of its 6+-stat slashed (2.9 – 1.5, -1.4, 6+) as it fades from the top twenty (#12 to #23). An overall +1.7 in October and November (6.3 – 6.9 – 8.0, 6+), Alpha Media classic hits-oldies KBAY “94.5 Bay FM – The Bay’s Greatest Hits” erases all but six-tenths of that increase with a -1.1 to 6.9 (6+), but is #1 for the third month in a row. In November, “Bay FM” reached the eight-share level (6+) for the first time since “Holiday” 2016 (8.0, as well). Prior to October, the last time KBAY held the lead spot was “Holiday” 2015 – when it was an adult contemporary outlet. After regressing by seven-tenths in November, iHeartMedia adult contemporary KISQ surrenders another eight-tenths in December (4.5 – 3.8 – 3.0, 6+) and exits the top ten (#6 to #13); “98.1 The Breeze” was a combined +1.0 in September and October (3.5 – 4.2 – 4.5, 6+). Having posted a +1.2 in October and a +.7 in November, hot AC sibling KIOI “Star 101.3” relinquishes one-half share (5.1 – 4.6, fourth to sixth, 6+). As a result of four straight down or flat trends, Cumulus Media classic rocker KSAN “107.7 The Bone” is an overall -1.0 (2.3 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 1.9 – 1.3, 6+) and drifts from the top twenty (#20 to #26). Three increases in a row (5.2 – 6.7 – 6.8 – 6.9, 6+) netted Bonneville-owned KUFX a collective +1.7, but “98.5 K-Fox The South Bay’s Classic Rock” is now -2.6 in three straight declines (6.9 – 5.9 – 4.8 – 4.3, fifth to eighth, 6+). Before shifting to #3 in October, KUFX had been #1 for three straight months. An overall +.3 via three successive up or flat trends (2.4 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.7, 6+), iHeartMedia urban contemporary KMEL “106.1 #1 For Hip-Hop and R&B” sputters by one-half share to 2.2 (#14 to #16, 6+).

Middlesex

Spoken-Word Formats – Owing to a loss of three-tenths to 8.0 (6+), Townsquare Media news/talk WKXW has its consecutive string of increases that netted +2.3 halted at six (6.0 – 6.4 – 6.8 – 7.1 – 8.0 – 8.2 – 8.3, 6+). Even so, “New Jersey 101.5” is #1 for the sixth month in a row. November’s 8.3 was its best 6+-share since January (8.3, as well). Without a loss the past five sweeps and precisely doubling (+1.7) its 6+-share (1.7 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 2.3 – 3.0 – 3.4, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WOR sputters by six-tenths to 2.8 (#13 to #16, 6+). Without an increase for the sixth straight sweep for an overall loss of one-half share (1.7 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.2, 6+) Cumulus Media news/talk WABC slips from #23 to #26.

The +.7 that Entercom sports talk WFAN logged in October is erased by a combined -.8 in November and December (4.2 – 3.7 – 3.4, 6+). Moreover, WFAN spirals from the top ten (#7 to #13). Its October increase ended four Middlesex-Somerset-Union decreases in succession that accounted for a -.9 (4.4 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.6 – 3.5, 6+). Through five consecutive up or flat trends, similarly-programmed WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” was +1.2 (1.7 – 1.9 – 2.1 – 2.5 – 2.9 – 2.9, 6+), but the flagship of the New York Jets loses four-tenths in December to 2.5 (#17 to #19, 6+).

As Entercom all-news WCBS-AM loses two-tenths (2.5 – 2.3, #19 to #20, 6+), co-owned/similarly-formatted WINS adds two-tenths (1.4 – 1.6, flat at #24, 6+). Through three increases in a row, WCBS-AM was up eight-tenths (1.7 – 1.9 – 2.2 – 2.5, 6+). Prior to November, WINS recorded a 1.7 (6+) in each of the previous six Middlesex-Somerset-Union monthlies.

Missing from print in October and November, WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM reappears at #18 (2.6, 6+). An August gain of three-tenths halted five straight losses (3.4 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.2 – 1.9 – 1.8, 6+) that accounted for a nearly 50% erosion of its 6+ share (-1.6).

Middlesex Music Formats – On a rollercoaster ride, Entercom classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM “101.1 New York’s Greatest Hits” was +.4 through three straight up or (mostly) flat July through October trends (3.7 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.1, 6+); -.6 in November; and now +.9 in November (3.5 – 4.4, seventh to fifth, 6+). November’s 3.5 was its lowest 6+ Middlesex-Somerset-Union showing since 3.3 in September 2016. In addition to being +2.4 (6+) in its home (New York City) market and +2.5 (6+) in Long Island, iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW “106.7 Lite FM” is +.7 in Middlesex. Carrying on in second-place, WLTW is an overall +1.6 in four straight Middlesex upticks (4.9 – 5.1 – 5.4 – 5.8 – 6.5, 6+). Replicating November’s half-share improvement (3.0 – 3.5 – 4.0, 6+), Entercom hot AC WNEW-FM “NEW 102.7” progresses from tenth to eighth.WNYC Broadcasting Foundation classical WQXR debuts with a .5 (#28, 6+). Returning in full the one-half share increase it registered in November (5.1 – 5.6 – 5.1, 6+), Emmis urban AC WBLS “107.5 – #1 For R&B” continues in third-place. Faltering by one-half share as well and departing the top twenty is Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish contemporary WPAT “Amor 93.1” (2.5 – 2.0, #19 to #23, 6+). Co-owned Spanish tropical WSKQ “La Mega 97.9,” which was down or flat the past five months for an overall loss of nine-tenths (3.9 – 3.8 – 3.5 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.0, 6+) gains one-tenth to 3.1 (#16 to #14, 6+).

Saturday, December 29, 2018

TALKERS | December 29, 2018

Nielsen Recalls First Two Rounds of December PPMs; Postpones Delivery Due to Data Problems. The December PPM ratings – the first two rounds of which were already released – are being postponed by Nielsen Audio and will be reissued when data processing problems with week four of the survey are fixed. Obviously, the data in those first two rounds of 24 markets is not valid and is being recalled. TALKERS magazine posted managing editor Mike Kinosian’s “Twelve Takeaways” analysis of those two rounds earlier in the week and has consequently pulled those reports. Kinosian’s “Takeaways” will be reposted when Nielsen issues the new data. Nielsen has not said when it expects to re-issue the December 2018 survey data.

Friday, December 21, 2018

TALKERS | December 21, 2018

The Top News/Talk Radio Stories of 2018. Today, TALKERS magazine presents its annual year-end feature ranking the most-talked-about news/talk radio stories and people of the year. Not surprisingly, the Trump-Russia investigation was at the top of the stories list this year and President Donald Trump was the most-talked-about person. Immigration issues, mass shootings, the midterm elections, and the Kavanaugh confirmation rounded out the top five stories on this year’s chart while Robert Mueller, Vladimir Putin, Mitch McConnell, and Nancy Pelosi followed President Trump as the most-talked-about people on the chart. In all, there are 20 stories and the people related to those stories listed on this year’s chart. See it in its entirety here.

iHeartMedia Announces Deal to Split from Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings. The separation of iHeartMedia – the radio and digital business – from billboard segment Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings is part of iHM’s Fifth Amended Plan for reorganization. Today the companies announce they’ve agreed to terms for the separation. iHeartMedia currently owns 89.1% of CCOH’s outstanding common stock. William Eccleshare – currently as chairman and CEO of Clear Channel International – will become chief executive officer of CCOH. Eccleshare joined CCI in 2009 and went on to lead Clear Channel Outdoor, including full operational responsibility for CCI and Clear Channel Outdoor Americas, before assuming his current role. Eccleshare will be based in London and will also continue to lead CCI as part of his new role. Scott Wells will continue to lead CCOA as CEO. iHeartMedia chairman and CEO Bob Pittman says, “Today’s announcement is recognition that while iHeartMedia and CCOH are both very strong in their respective areas – iHeartMedia is America’s number one audio company and CCOH is one of the world’s largest outdoor advertising companies – their key constituencies have little strategic overlap. We believe that the separation of the two businesses makes strategic and financial sense and will allow each company to better achieve their individual missions.” CCOH’s current leadership and board of directors will remain in place until iHeartMedia exits its restructuring process, at which time the new executives and board will assume their responsibilities.

TODAY IS THE LAST DAY to Register as an Early Bird for Talkers 2019 Convention! The opportunity to save $50 in registering for Talkers 2019: Telling the Story will end TODAY Friday, December 21 at 5:00 pm ET. The 22^nd annual installment of the longest-running, most-important national talk media convention has been set for Friday, June 7, 2019 in New York City. Talkers 2019: Telling the Story will take place again at the ultra-modern Helen Mills Event Space and Theater located in the colorful Chelsea district of Manhattan. 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. However, those registering before 5:00 pm ET on December 21, 2018 pay only $279. To register or obtain sponsorship information, call Barbara Kurland at 413-565-5413.

KDKA-AM, Pittsburgh Announces New Program Schedule. Pittsburgh news/talk KDKA-AM announces its new lineup for 2019 with the addition of Wendy Bell and Lynne Hayes-Freeland as afternoon drive host and midday host respectively. The Entercom station says it is also expanding its local weekday news coverage to 8:00 pm and will add local morning newscasts on the weekends. KDKA is moving current afternoon drive host Robert Mangino to the 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm slot (with weekend duties as well). It moves current late morning host Marty Griffin to the afternoon drive daypart with new co-host Wendy Bell. It combines the late morning and early afternoon shows into one 10:00 am to 2:00 pm program hosted by Lynne Hayes-Freeland. Bell – a 21-time Emmy and five-time Edward R. Murrow Award winner – says, “KDKA is a powerhouse radio station and Marty Griffin is a trusted friend who, like me, loves helping people. Spending four hours a day with a team that truly cares about this city is a tremendous honor and I look forward to the opportunity to serve our listeners.” Hayes-Freeland began her career with KDKA-AM as a producer back in 1976. She worked at KDKA-TV as a reporter, producer, and talk show host since 1977. She comments, “Radio is a perfect place to learn, explore, and grow, and I look forward to the chance to do just that with listeners just as curious as me every day. It feels great to be back home on KDKA.” The station lost longtime early afternoon host Mike Pintek back in September. He passed away after a battle with cancer.

Beasley Inks 98.5 The Sports Hub’s ‘Toucher and Rich’ to Contract Extension. Morning drive duo Fred Toucher (right) and Rich Shertenlieb (left) re-up with Beasley Media Group to continue hosting their morning program on sports talk WBZ-FM, Boston “98.5 The Sports Hub.” They have been the hosts of the morning show since the station launched as a sports talk outlet in 2009. Station program director Mike Thomas (who also serves Beasley as national format brand manager for spoken-word programming and esports) says, “‘Toucher & Rich’ are the most creative guys I know with real raw talent that you cannot teach. ‘Toucher & Rich’ will always be one of the biggest success stories in the history of ‘The Sports Hub.’

Gonzalez to Lead Sales at iHeartMedia Wilmington. Sales and management pro Steve Gonzalez is returning to iHeartMedia to take on the senior vice president of sales position at the Wilmington, Delaware station group that includes heritage news/talk WILM-AM, sister news/talk WDOV-AM, and sports talk WWTX-AM. Gonzalez was most recently an EVP with Target Media. He previously served with iHeartMedia as a general sales manager in the Philadelphia cluster. He says, “I truly appreciate the opportunity to come back to iHeartMedia. I look forward to leading the strong team [retiring SVP] Martha [Masters] has developed and trained over the past years and my goal is to continue to provide the Delmarva business community with the numerous iHeart assets and platforms that will increase consumer engagement and grow their business.”

CMG Unveils Cox Trading Desk. This new service comes from Cox Media Group’s CMG Local Solutions and provides its clients with programmatic advertising technologies and a team of traders to eliminate charges for fraudulent advertising impressions. Vice president of digital media Joe Weir explains, “At Cox Media Group, we understand the importance of avoiding fraudulent impressions and providing a transparent ecosystem for our clients. The Cox Trading Desk is designed to protect our clients by delivering the highest quality of inventory that translates into an industry-leading return on investment.” Cox says in its press release, “Because Cox owns and operates newspaper, television, radio and digital assets across the country, CMG Local Solutions knows the current landscape of premium publishers and the challenges this industry faces with malicious activity. Senior director of data and programmatic Joseph Naylor adds, “With CMG being TAG registered and an active member of the IAB, it is our publisher-centric mindset that compels us to make this pledge to all of our advertising clients.

Neely Joins Entercom Board. Chairman, president and CEO David Field says that Susan K. Neely “brings an outstanding breadth of expertise to the board and we look forward to having her join us at such an exciting time in our company’s growth and transformation.” Neely is the president and chief executive officer of the American Council of Life Insurers and she brings an impressive set of credentials with her. She served as special assistant to President George W. Bush and helped create the U.S Department of Homeland Security. She later became the first DHS assistant secretary for public affairs. Neely led the American Beverage Association for 13 years as president and CEO before joining ACLI in September 2018. Neely’s appointment is an expansion as the board now is comprised of nine people.

TALKERS News Notes. Today (12/21) is the final Steve Dahl show on Cumulus Media’s WLS-AM, Chicago. As previously announced, Dahl is leaving the news/talk station where he’s been hosting the afternoon drive show, although he’ll continue to do his regular podcast with co-hosts Dag Juhlin and Brendan Greeley. Chicago media maven Robert Feder writes about it here…..Entercom’s WSCR, Chicago, “670 The Score” announces that the MLB’s Chicago Cubs and Pat Hughes have signed a multi-year contract extension for him to remain in the play-by-play booth beginning with his 24^thseason with the team in 2019. Ron Coomer serves as color analyst. Entercom Chicago SVP and market manager Jimmy de Castro says, “Pat is the iconic voice of the Chicago Cubs. We are both proud and honored to have him on our team at ‘670 The Score’ and Entercom Chicago. Pat is the eyes and ears for so many Cubs fans both in Chicago and worldwide. We are thrilled he will continue as the radio voice for multiple years to come.”…..CBS News Radio is distributing “Eye On Travel” with host Peter Greenberg. “Eye On Travel” is a new series of short- and long-form shows featuring CBS News senior travel advisor Peter Greenberg. CBS News Radio general manager Craig Swagler comments, “We’re delighted to offer Peter Greenberg’s insightful programs and expertise to our affiliates and listeners. Peter brings a unique perspective to the world of travel and empowers listeners so that they may make informed decisions when traveling throughout the world.”

Wade and Abel Join National Radio Talent System. The National Radio Talent System names Taylor Anne Wade and Aimee Abel to the newly created position of institutes director. Wade has worked with Don Anthony’s Morning Show Boot Camp and Talk Show Boot Camp, was a volunteer at the Country Radio Seminar, and was a Student Scholar at the NAB/RAB Radio Show. Abel moves from part time to full time. She was previously an anchor for iHeartMedia’s Total Traffic and Weather Network. National Radio Talent System president Dan Vallie says, “Both Taylor Anne and Aimee completed the Kellar Radio Talent Institute when they were students at Appalachian State University. They bring a passion for the industry and for helping people. We wanted them to be on the team and they wanted to be here. Things worked out well. I’m thrilled they are on the team.” The National Radio Talent System is currently producing eight Radio Talent Institutes annually.

Trump-Russia Investigation Top News/Talk Story Again This Week. The Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents remained the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers Ten^TM. At #2 this week was the battle over the border wall and the related short-term spending bill. Coming in at #3 was President Trump’s order to withdraw U.S. troops from Syria, followed by activity on the world’s financial markets and the Fed’s decision to raise interest rates at #4. The Talkers Ten^TMis 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.

Armstrong & Getty Are This Week’s Guests on Harrison Podcast. Syndicated morning show hosts Jack Armstrong and Joe Getty are this week’s guests on the award-winning PodcastOne series “The Michael Harrison Interview.” They started out as a couple of music radio DJs who joined forces in the early 90s in Wichita and worked their way up to landing a big-time slot in 1998 as the morning team on news/talk station KSTE in Sacramento. They quickly developed a reputation throughout the radio industry for their freshness and youthful dynamics. Their show became a huge success in the California state capital and began to spread into regional syndication up and down the west coast where today – 20 years later – it still emanates from KSTE but is also heard in the mornings on such major radio stations as KGO, San Francisco; KFMB, San Diego; KHHO, Seattle; KEX, Portland; KMJ, Fresno; KKAT, Salt Lake City, and KTBL, Albuquerque, not to mention stations in Eugene, Monterey-Salinas, Palm Springs, Reno, Riverside and Ventura. And now, as we enter 2019, the show is being offered to stations around the country as a full-fledged nationally syndicated radio show. Michael Harrison says, “When I first heard Armstrong & Getty, they sounded to me more like the kind of talk show hosts one would expect to hear on a rock station than on a ‘serious’ news outlet. They were funny and irreverent and surrounded with a cast of characters that gave their show more of the feeling of a morning zoo than a roundtable of stuffy panelists. But even though they were zany and played the goofball roll to a certain degree, their antics were offset by obvious intelligence, keen insight, biting satire, excellent interviewing skills and a ton of information about what was happening in the news.” Harrison caught up with Jack and Joe last week to discuss their fabulous radio partnership… where it’s been, where it’s at, and where it hopes to be going – set against the backdrop of turbulent political times and extraordinary social/technological change. Don’t miss this! 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 on every page of Talkers.com.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. He’s been away from Entercom country outlet WDSY, Pittsburgh “Y108” for five years, but Stoney Richards (center)is making his return to a full-time air shift on the station. He begins co-hosting the morning show – titled “Y’d Awake” – with co-host Kristen Buccigrossi (left) and producer Cowboy Curt (right). Entercom Pittsburgh SVP and market manager Michael Spacciapolli says, “Stoney Richards means country in Western PA. He’s beloved by Pittsburgh country fans and the Nashville hitmakers alike. We are thrilled to bring Stoney back home to ‘Y108’ every weekday.” Richards has been serving with the station (and sister news/talk KDKA-AM) as a fill-in personality…..iHeartMedia Asheville unveils new alternative rock outlet “ALT 101.1” The station is heard on translator W266CP but it’s not immediately clear which station is feeding the translator. Senior vice president of programming Brian Hall states, “There is a huge appetite for alternative music in Asheville. So many of the artists that you will hear on ‘ALT 101.1’ have already performed live in Asheville and I’m excited to know that local fans now have a radio station to listen to their favorite musicians and to call their home.”…..Entercom’s “Hot 92.9” (WWWL-AM, WEZB-HD2, and W225 CZ) announces the addition of the nationally syndicated Tom Joyner show to its program schedule in morning drive. Senior vice president and market manager Kevin Cassidy comments, “We are absolutely thrilled to have legendary morning man Tom Joyner on ‘The New Hot 92.9.’ Tom is already well known to listeners across New Orleans and we look forward to expanding his audience in 2019 and beyond.”

Thursday, December 20, 2018

TALKERS | December 20, 2018

Late Night Legend Jim Bohannon Renews with Westwood One. Nationally syndicated, late night talk radio legend Jim Bohannon signs a multi-year extension with Westwood One to continue hosting his “The Jim Bohannon Show.” Westwood One says the show – a “unique mix of topical issues, newsmakers, and pop culture which informs and entertains a loyal audience” – airs on more than 250 affiliate stations. Bohannon (the self-proclaimed “militant moderate”) says, “I’m honored to be continuing the apex of my career, working with the wonderful professionals at Westwood One. As ‘The Jim Bohannon Show’ approaches the 26-year mark next month, I promise that we’ll continue to offer the best in news, analysis, and sometimes, just pure fun every weeknight.” During his career, Bohannon has been the recipient of numerous awards. He’s been a member of the TALKERS magazine “Heavy Hundred” every year since 1995; he’s been given the RTDNA First Amendment Award; was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 2003; and this year won his second prestigious Gold Medal Award from the New York Festivals Radio Awards for the Westwood One News retrospective, “Pain & Pride: Remembering Vietnam – 50 Years Later.” WWO executive vice president, news and talk Bart Tessler says, “Jim is the gold standard of a talk show host. I’ve traveled with him on assignment to Moscow and Tokyo and from New York to California and I continue to learn and laugh listening to him nightly. The evening wouldn’t be the same without the breaking news coverage and perspective from ‘The Jim Bohannon Show.’”

Skyview Networks Enters Sales Partnership with Alpha Media. Radio operator Alpha Media enters into an agreement with Skyview Networks for the company to lead Alpha’s network audio sales efforts, beginning in the New Year. Skyview has eight sales offices across the country (New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta, Phoenix, and Miami) and Alpha says its stations reach more than 127 million listeners per week. Skyview EVP/general manager Jeanne-Marie Condo says, “We’re excited to deliver Alpha’s strong network reach to clients. Alpha has a powerful footprint that delivers key stations, markets, and impressions that will make a difference for agencies. We are thrilled to partner with Alpha and be part of their amazing success.” Alpha Media CEO/president Bob Proffitt comments, “We are excited to work with Skyview. This partnership will allow Alpha to compete in the network arena. The Skyview team has been very professional, transparent, and aggressive which fits very well with our operating philosophy.”

WXOS-FM, St. Louis Renews ESPN Affiliation. St. Louis sports talker WXOS-FM “101 ESPN” signs a five-year extension with ESPN to continue its affiliation with the sports giant. The Hubbard Radio sports talker debuted back in 2009 and celebrates its 10^thanniversary next month. The renewal means WXOS will continue to air ESPN Radio programming, including: “Sports Center,” “First and Last,” “Golic and Wingo,” “The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz,” and “Freddie and Fitzsimmons,” in addition to its stable of local shows that air from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. The station also airs ESPN Radio-produced play-by-play for the NFL, NBA, MLB and NCAA athletics. WXOS program director Chris “Hoss” Neupert says, “Hubbard Radio management and the ‘101 ESPN’ team want to thank our listeners and the St. Louis community for their continued support over the last 10 years. Our entire team is looking forward to the strengthening of our partnership with the ESPN Radio Network and the opportunity to offer innovative content and exclusive interviews, analysis and coverage for St. Louis’ sports fans.”

Laura Walker to Leave New York Public Radio in March. Non-profit public media organization New York Public Radio operates public radio news/talk WNYC-FM, classical WQXR-FM, the New Jersey Public Radio network and more. NYPR president Laura Walker– called a “prolific fundraiser” by former NPR CEO Vivian Schiller – announces she’ll leave the organization at the end of March, three months before the end of her contract. According to the story on WNYC.org, Walker became president of NYPR in 1996, as it had just become independent of the city. Under her leadership, listenership grew exponentially, its budget grew from $1 million per year to $93.7 million and it became an early leader in digital content such as podcasts. Read the WNYC.org story here.

TALKERS News Notes. The rebuilding in Florida’s panhandle is the subject of a series of reports from CBS News Radio’s correspondent Peter King (pictured at right with students and faculty members of a local school). The news organization says that King spent time in Mexico Beach, Panama City, and Tallahassee speaking with residents, officials, and volunteers ahead of the holiday season. Short-form reports and long-form, in-depth interviews will be made available on newsfeed every morning and afternoon of next week…..Pictured at left is Bold Gold Media Group general manager Michael G. Stanton taking a shower on Main Street in downtown Honesdale, Pennsylvania for his 17^thannual “Shower For Charity.” Stanton stayed in the show for four hours in nothing but his swim suit until listeners and local businesses helped him meet his goal of raising $20,000 for the Wayne County Children’s Christmas Bureau. Bold Gold is based in Northeast Pennsylvania operating a number of stations in the Pocono Lake Region. The station group also held a very successful toy drive to benefit the area’s children in need. Bold Gold founder and president Vince Benedetto says, “It’s profoundly moving how generous of a community we have in Northeast PA and how much they support our stations’ efforts. Several years ago, when we made the decision to attempt to do two large fundraising efforts concurrently, we wondered if both could be successful… but our listeners rally every year and the promotions continue to get bigger. Live, local radio is alive and booming in Northeast PA.”…..At right are two KLIF-AM, Dallas staffers with school officials from Charles Nash Elementary School in Fort Worth holding the ceremonial check for funds donated to the school. The Cumulus Media news/talk station teamed with Ed Wallace of the Saturday car show “Wheels with Ed Wallace” and Kwik Kar Industries for the 30th Annual KLIF Kids Toy Drive. Listeners and auto dealerships contributed more than $46,000 for kids at two different schools in Dallas and Fort Worth…..Nationally syndicated talk show host Dr. Daliah Wachs (right) is pictured below with magician Penn Jillette (left) promoting the importance of blood donations via the “13 Bloody Days of Christmas” campaign.

Trump-Russia Investigation, Trumps Orders Troops Out of Syria, Putin Presser, Dow Dips 350 Points/Fed Raises Interest Rates, Border Wall Battle/Short Term Spending Bill, and NFL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (12/19). The Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents and Tuesday’s related sentencing hearing for former Trump national security adviser Michael Flynn; President Trump orders the swift exit of all U.S. troops from Syria; Vladimir Putin’s annual press conference in which he addressed issues including the threat of nuclear conflict; the Dow drops 350 points and concerns about a recession as the Fed raises interest rates; the battle over funding the U.S.-Mexico border wall and the related short-term spending bill; and the week’s NFL action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

ONLY TWO DAYS LEFT to Register as an Early Bird for Talkers 2019 Convention! The opportunity to save $50 in registering for Talkers 2019: Telling the Story will end this Friday, December 21 at 5:00 pm ET. The 22^nd annual installment of the longest-running, most-important national talk media convention has been set for Friday, June 7, 2019 in New York City. Talkers 2019: Telling the Story will take place again at the ultra-modern Helen Mills Event Space and Theater located in the colorful Chelsea district of Manhattan. The conference will feature more than 50 top speakers from all aspects of the spoken-word media industry – including talent, programmers, managers and owners – wit

TALKERS

Holiday 2018 PPM Ratings

Wednesday, January 23, 2019

Tuesday, January 22, 2018

The Epoch Times: A Resource for News/Talk Radio

Monday, January 21, 2018

Monday Memo: Carpe Trump

Friday, January 18, 2019

Thursday, January 17, 2019

Radio for the 55+ Listener? It’s About Time

Wednesday, January 16, 2019

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

Monday, January 14, 2018

December 2018 PPM Analysis:
Contemporary Christian

Monday Memo: CES 2019

#250 Working on Ways to Overcome Obstacles in Maximizing Direct Response Spot Success.

Friday, January 11, 2019

December 2018 PPM Analysis:
Public Radio News/Talk

December 2018 PPM Analysis:
Sports Talk

Thursday, January 10, 2018

Wednesday, January 9, 2019

December 2018 PPM Analysis: All-News

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

Monday Memo: Podcast Ads Work

Monday, January 7, 2019

Friday, January 4, 2019

Thursday, January 3, 2019

2019: Welcome to the Golden Age of Audio

Wednesday, January 2, 2019

Saturday, December 29, 2018

Friday, December 21, 2018

Thursday, December 20, 2018

TALKERS

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