Category: Industry News

Sunday, October 6, 2019

September 2019 PPM Data – September 2019 ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s PPM survey has been released for all 48 PPM markets.  See all the 6+ data from subscribing stations here.  Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” from the following nine PPM markets.

Cincinnati

Spoken-Word Formats – On the heels of a +1.2 to 10.7 (6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WLW “The Big One” repeats August’s 10.7 (6+) and #1 ranking. Prior to August, the last time WLW reached #1 was January. When co-owned WKRC added a half-share in August, it suspended three straight down or flat trends that resulted in a loss of nine-tenths (3.6 – 3.5 – 2.7 – 2.7, 6+). In September though, “55 KRC The Talk Station” surrenders three-tenths (3.2 – 2.9, 6+), slipping from a tie at #11 to #12.

Sports talk cluster-mate WCKY “Cincinnati’s ESPN 1530” repeats August’s 6+ share (.8) and market rank (#20). Before adding three-tenths in August, WCKY lost more than 50% (-.7) of its 6+ AQH-share in six straight sweeps without an increase (1.2 – 1.0 – .9 – .9 – .8 – .6 – .5, 6+). Unchanged at #23, co-owned WSAI “Fox Sports 1360” has an April 2019 through September 2019 topline of: .4 – .3 – .3 – .4 – .3 – .3 (6+).

Bouncing back from August’s loss of four-tenths with a September gain of one-half share (2.8 – 2.4 – 2.9, 6+), Cincinnati Public Radio news/talk WVXU climbs from #14 to #12.

Cincinnati Music Formats – An increase of nine-tenths (3.8 – 4.7, eighth to seventh, 6+) takes iHeartMedia-owned WEBN “Cincinnati’s Rock Station” to its highest 6+-stat (4.7) since Holiday” 2018’s 5.0. Advancing by six-tenths each are Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WUBE “B-105.1 Cincinnati’s Country” (6.5 – 7.1, steady at #3, 6+) and Radio One urban contemporary WIZF “101.1 The Wiz” (ninth to eighth, 6+). A combined +1.5 in May/June (7.3 – 7.5 – 8.8, 6+), “B-105.1” plummeted by -2.3 in July/August (8.8 – 7.2 – 6.5, 6+). Whereas June’s 8.8 was WUBE’s best 6+-stat since January (9.4), August’s 6.5 was its lowest since “Holiday” 2017 (6.3). Meanwhile, “The Wiz” was -.4 (May); +.7 (June); -.7 (July); and is now a combined +1.2 in August/September (3.0 – 3.6 – 4.2, 6+). After logging eight successive negative or neutral trends resulting in a collective -1.8 (4.0 -3.7 – 3.1 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 2.6 – 2.2, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WFTK “96 Rock” pulls the plug with a half-share increase to 2.7 (#15 to #14, 6+). Steady in fifth-place, Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WKRQ “Q-102 Cincinnati’s Hit Music” is within 5.4 – 5.9 range (6+) the seventh straight time (5.7 – 5.6 – 5.5 – 5.7 – 5.4 – 5.9 – 5.7, 6+). A collective -.6 in four straight sweeps without an increase (3.8 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.2 – 3.2, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR WKFS not only ends the slide with a gain of three-tenths to 3.5 (6+),“Kiss 107.1” reenters the top ten (#11 to #10).

Austin

Spoken-Word Formats – Following three positive spikes in a row that accounted for a collective +2.0 (2.8 – 3.7 – 4.2 – 4.8, 6+) and its best 6+-performance (4.8) in more than six years (5.0, June 2013), news/talk KLBJ-AM surrenders one-half share (4.3, fifth to tenth, 6+).

A cumulative +1.0 via three straight boosts (1.3 – 1.6 – 1.9 – 2.3, 6+), Genuine Austin Radio sports talk KTXX “The Horn” advances from #16 to #15. Repeating at #25, iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted KVET-AM “1300 AM The Zone” doubles (+.4) its 6+ AQH-share in four straight reports without a loss (.4 – .5 – .5 – .7 – .8, 6+).

After posting a +1.2 in August to 7.9, its highest 6+-performance since 9.5 in March, University of Texas at Austin-owned news/talk KUT falters by six-tenths to 7.3 (6+) but continues in the runner-up slot. KUT’s nine shifts this calendar year include: +1.6 (January); -.6 (February); +.7 (March); -2.0 (April); -.1 (May); -1.6 (June); +.9 (July); +1.2 (August) and -.6 (September). June’s 5.8 was its lowest 6+-showing since April 2017 (5.8, as well).

Austin Music Formats – Following May’s +.9, KVET-FM “98.1 The Austin Texas Original” was an overall -2.5 via three successive significant setbacks (5.8 – 5.2 – 4.5 – 3.3, 6+). The iHeartMedia-owned/country-formatted outlet roars back in September though with a massive +1.7 to 5.0 (6+) and rockets into the top ten (#13 to #6). Prior to its 3.3 in August, “98.1 The Austin Texas Original,” which was +1.2 in January (5.0 – 6.2, 6+), hadn’t been below a four-share (6+) in more than six years (3.1, February 2013). Elsewhere in the market’s country contest, KVET-FM’s sibling, KASE “Austin’s #1 For New Country” is trending 4.8 – 4.9 – 4.7 (July – August – September, 6+) and falls from fourth to seventh. Immediately after an overall +1.5 in three straight gains (4.3 – 4.5 – 5.7 – 5.8, 6+), KASE was a combined -1.0 in June/July (5.8 – 5.4 – 4.8, 6+). Meanwhile, Genuine Austin Radio-owned KOKE-FM “Austin’s Country Alternative” repeats August’s 6+ AQH share (1.8) and market rank (#17). KOKE-FM’s August dip of eight-tenths halted four straight up or flat sweeps that netted six-tenths (2.0 – 2.0 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.6, 6+); July’s 2.6 was its best 6+-stat since February’s 2.7. Crista Ministries contemporary Christian KFMK records its third straight increase for an overall +1.7 (2.8 – 3.1 – 4.2 – 4.5, 6+) as “Spirit 105.9” has its strongest 6+-performance (4.5) since February’s 4.6. Off an overall four-tenths in four straight down or flat moves (2.4 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.0, 6+), Univision Radio regional Mexican KLQB “Que Buena 104.3” (#15 to #14, 6+) explodes with a +1.1 to 3.1, its highest 6+-stat since November 2018 (3.1, as well). Similarly-formatted KLZT tacks on a +1.0 to August’s increase of three-tenths (4.3 – 5.3, 6+), jumping from eighth to fourth. Directly following March’s +1.2, “107.1 La Z” was a collective -2.7 in four straight decreases (6.7 – 5.9 – 5.1 – 4.4 – 4.0, 6+). Alternative KROX “101-X” nets a +2.1 as a result of six successive reports without a loss (2.6 – 2.9 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.7, tenth to seventh, 6+) and reaches the four-share level (6+) for the first time in exactly one year (4.0, September 2018). More than doubling (+.8) its 6+ AQH-share in three consecutive up or flat moves (.7 – .8 – 1.5 – 1.5, #20 to #19, 6+), Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KLJA “Amor 107.7” notches its best 6+-stat (1.5) since 1.6 in January. Despite being down nine-tenths in three straight setbacks (9.3 – 9.2 – 8.7 – 8.4, 6+), adult hits KBPA “103.5 Bob-FM” is #1 the sixth month in a row. June’s 9.3 was its highest 6+ share since “Holiday” 2018 (also 9.3). Prior to this past April, the last time “Bob” occupied the top spot was December 2018 (8.3, 6+). Directly after May/June’s combined +1.1 (5.3 – 5.8 – 6.4, 6+), Entercom hot AC KAMX is an overall -2.4 in July/August/September (6.4 – 5.9 – 4.6 – 4.0, 6+) as “Mix 94.7” departs the top ten (#7 to #11). In three consecutive reports without a loss, adult contemporary KGSR picked up eight-tenths (1.9 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.7, 6+) but “97.1 Austin City Limits Radio” surrenders one-half share in September (2.2, #14 to #16, 6+). August’s 2.7 represents the best 6+-showing for KGSR since it flipped from triple A to AC this past March (2019). A combined -1.4 in July/August (6.7 – 6.3 – 5.3, 6+), Entercom’s similarly-formatted KKMJ “Majic 95.5 – Better Music for a Better Workday” picks up two-tenths to 5.5 (6+) and continues in third-place.

Cleveland

Spoken-Word Formats –The seven most recent fluctuations for iHeartMedia news/talk WTAM (Indians) are: -.6 (March); +.9 (April); -.7 (May); +.5 (June); another +.5 (July); +1.1 (August); and -.7 in September (7.2 – 6.5, fifth to sixth, 6+). August’s 7.2 was the strongest 6+-stat for “1100 Cleveland’s News Radio” since October 2017’s 8.5. Upon resurfacing in print this past April, Salem Media Group news/talk WHK logged a .5 (6+) in April, May, and June, finishing at #19. “AM 1420 The Answer – News-Opinion-Insight,” however, is unlisted the third straight month.

In addition to getting back in the top ten (#13 to #10), Entercom’s WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” (Browns) nets a +1.4 through three upticks in succession (3.0 – 3.1 – 3.4 – 4.4, 6+).

Spiraling by -1.3 (4.0 – 2.7, 6+), Ideastream-owned news/talk WCPN falls below a three-share (2.7, 6+) for the first time since “Holiday” 2018’s 2.1. WCPN gained four-tenths in August, after being locked on 3.6 (6+) in June and July.

Cleveland Music Formats – Immediately before falling to third in August, iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WMJI was the market pacesetter for eight straight sweeps. Aided by September’s increase of eight-tenths (8.2 – 9.0, 6+), “Majic 105.7 – Cleveland’s Greatest Hits” returns to #1. August’s 8.2 was its lowest 6+-stat since December 2018’s 7.9. Eight recent WMJI shifts include: +2.8 (“Holiday” 2018); -1.7 (January 2019); +.8 (February); +1.0 (March); -1.0 (April); -.6 (July); -1.0 (August); and +.8 (September). Departing the top spot are WMJI cluster-mate WGAR “99.5 – Cleveland’s #1 For New Country” (8.3 – 8.0, -.3, first-place tie to third, 6+) and Entercom-owned WNCX “98.5 Cleveland’s Classic Rock” (8.3 – 7.4, -.9, first-place tie to fourth, 6+). WGAR had gained a collective nine-tenths in three straight up or flat moves (7.4 – 8.1 – 8.1 – 8.3, 6+) with August’s 8.3 its highest 6+-share since August 2015, 8.8, 6+). Prior to August/September’s -1.1 (8.5 – 8.3 – 7.4, 6+), WNCX was a collective +2.1 via five straight upticks (6.4 – 7.0 – 7.6 – 7.3 – 8.4 – 8.5, 6+). Improving by six-tenths each are Radio One urban AC WZAK” (fourth to second) and its urban contemporary cluster-mate WENZ “Z-107.9” (4.9, unchanged at #9, 6+). Following July’s -1.1 (7.8 – 6.7), WZAK is a combined +1.5 in August/September (6.7 – 7.6 – 8.2, 6+). When WZAK gained three-tenths in June, it halted five successive sweeps without an increase that resulted in a -1.2 (8.7 – 8.5 – 8.5 – 8.5 – 8.2 – 7.5, 6+). Entering the September sweep, “Z-107.9” was a combined -2.7 in July/August (7.0 – 4.5 – 4.3, 6+). While iHeartMedia CHR WAKS is within 3.1 – 3.9 range the eighth successive time (3.6 – 3.9 – 3.1 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 3.9 – 3.8 – 3.1, 6+), “96.5 Kiss FM” (#11 to #12) is a combined -.8 in August/September. For the third successive month, Entercom adult contemporary WDOK logs a fluctuation of six-tenths. “Cleveland’s Star 102” was up six-tenths in July and August but falters by that margin in September (6.0 – 6.6 – 7.2 – 6.6, flat at #5, 6+). June’s -1.5 sent “Star” to its weakest 6+-stat since January (6.0, as well).

Kansas City

Spoken-Word Formats – Nearly erasing July/August’s combined -1.0 (5.5 – 4.9 – 4.5, 6+) with a September +.9 to 5.4 (6+), Entercom news/talk KMBZ-FM “98.1 News-Traffic-Weather” progresses from sixth to fourth. KMBZ-FM was +.7 May/June (4.8 – 5.2 – 5.5, 6+). Co-owned KMBZ-AM “Talk 980” has lost a cumulative one-half share in three straight sweeps without an increase (2.3 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 1.8, #19 to #20, 6+). Cumulus Media’s KCMO-AM “Talk Radio 710 AM” regains the one-tenth it lost in August (1.1 – 1.0 – 1.1, #23 to #21, 6+).

For the third month in a row, Union Broadcasting sports talk WHB has a shift of four-tenths: 3.2 – 2.8 (July, 6+); 2.8 – 3.2 (August, 6+); and 3.2 – 3.6 (#13 to #12, September, 6+). “Sports Radio 810” rose by two-tenths in June to suspend four straight negative or flat trends that led to a -2.0 (5.0 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 3.1 – 3.0, 6+). Meanwhile, Entercom’s KCSP “610 Sports Radio” (Royals) adds three-tenths to August’s +.3 (2.5 – 2.9 – 3.2, #15 to #13, 6+). Entering the August sweep, KCSP was a collective -1.5 in three drops in succession (4.0 – 3.9 – 3.3 – 2.5, 6+).

The June 2019 through September 2019 topline for University of Missouri news/talk KCUR (ninth to eighth) is: 4.1 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 4.4 (6+).

Kansas City Music Formats – An August -.6 to 9.3 (6+) interrupted four positive spikes in succession by Cumulus Media-owned KCFX (Chiefs) that netted a +2.6 (7.3 – 7.7 – 8.4 – 8.6 – 9.9, 6+). In September, “101 The Fox – Kansas City’s Classic Rock Station” dials up a +1.0 to 10.3 as KCFX is #1 the third successive month. This (10.3) is the highest 6+-stat by any Kansas City station since “Holiday” 2017 when KCFX classic hits-oldies sibling KCMO-FM logged a 10.4. As far as KCMO-FM is concerned, “94.9 Kansas City’s Greatest Hits” is -1.0 in three reports in a row without an increase (9.2 – 9.2 – 8.6 – 8.2, 6+) but stays at #2. KCMO-FM had been +3.8 via six successive sweeps without a loss (5.4 – 6.6 – 7.7 – 7.9 – 7.9 – 9.2 – 9.2, 6+). Six of its recent fluctuations include: +1.6 (“Holiday” 2018); -1.3 (January 2019); +1.2 (February); +1.1 (March); +1.3 (June); and -.6 (August). In this year’s nine survey periods, KCFX has been on top six times (January, February, May, July, August, and September), while KCMO-FM has been at #1 the other three (March, April, and June). Within 6.0 – 6.9 range (6+) in each of the last eight sweeps (6.2 – 6.9 – 6.6 – 6.0 – 6.3 – 6.2 – 6.5 – 6.2, 6+), Carter Broadcast urban contemporary KPRS reaches the seven-share level with a +.8 to 7.0 (6+); “Hot 103 Jamz” continues at #3. All three of the market’s country FMs are down in September. Taking the biggest hit is Entercom’s WDAF “106.5 The Wolf,” which is -1.0 (4.2 – 3.2, 6+) and exits the top ten (four-way tie at #9 to #13). “The Wolf” was a cumulative +1.2 via four successive up or flat trends (3.0 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.7 – 4.2, 6+); 4.2 is its best 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2018 (4.2, as well). An August increase of seven-tenths took Steel City Media-owned KFKF to its highest 6+-showing (5.2) since September’s 5.3. “Country 94.1,” however, forfeits that +.7 in its entirety, reverting to 4.5 (-.7, fourth to sixth, 6+). After posting an August +.9 to 5.0 (6+), KFKF cluster-mate KBEQ “Q-104 New Hit Country” slips by one-tenth to 4.9 (flat at #5, 6+). Prior to that increase, “Q-104” was -1.8 via three drops in a row (5.9 – 5.3 – 4.2 – 4.1, 6+). July’s 4.1 was the weakest 6+-stat for KBEQ since December 2018’s 3.7. Cumulus Media adult hits KCMO-HD2 is off one-half share (1.4 – .9, #23, 6+).

Columbus

Spoken-Word Formats – After dropping three-tenths in August, iHeartMedia news/talk WTVN “News Radio 610” bounces back with an increase twice that magnitude (5.0 – 5.6, +.6, steady at #5, 6t+).

The January 2019 through September 2019 topline for Ohio State University news/talk WOSU is: 4.5 – 4.7 – 4.5 – 4.7 – 4.6 – 4.8 – 4.5 – 4.3 – 4.6 (seventh to sixth, 6+).

Columbus Music Formats – Not only does Radio One urban AC WXMG post a whopping +1.3 (2.4 – 3.7, 6+) to reach the three-share level (6+) for the first time since February’s 3.1, “Magic 95.5” cracks the top ten (#13 to #8). It is tied there with cluster-mate WCKX “Power 107.5,” which is a combined +1.0 in August/September (2.7 – 3.0 – 3.7, #11 to #8, 6+) and has its best 6+-performance (3.7) since December 2018’s 3.9. On top the 22^nd sweep in a row, iHeartMedia-owned WCOL “92.3 Columbus’ #1 For New Country” is up a combined seven-tenths in August/September (10.8 – 11.2 – 11.5, 6+), after being an overall -2.2 in three straight declines (13.0 -11.7 – 11.1 – 10.8, 6+). Moreover, WCOL has been in double-digits (6+) each ratings period since June 2017. Sample fluctuations include +3.1 (January 2018); -2.1 (“Holiday” 2018); +.8 (January 2019); +.7 (February); +1.2 (April); -1.3 (May); and -.6 (June). While it is an overall -1.7 in four straight down or flat moves (8.6 – 7.4 – 7.1 – 6.9 – 6.9, 6+), CHR sibling WNCI “97.9 Columbus’ Hit Music Station,” which was +.1.4 in May, advances from third to second. Returning all of August’s +.8 and one-tenth more, Saga Communications hot AC WVMX “Mix 107.9” exits the top ten (3.3 – 2.4, -.9, #9 to #12, 6+). August 2019’s 3.3 is its highest 6+-stat since 3.3 in August 2018. Faltering by seven-tenths each are its adult contemporary sibling WSNY “Sunny 95” (6.9, flat at #2, 6+) and co-owned classic hits-oldies WNND “Rewind” (#12 to #13). “Sunny” gained nine-tenths via three successive up or flat trends (6.7 – 6.9 – 6.9 – 7.6, 6+). “Rewind” is now a combined -1.3 in August/September (3.4 – 2.8 – 2.1, 6+), directly following a collective +1.2 through four consecutive positive spikes (2.2 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 3.0 – 3.4, 6+). WNND reached the three-share level (June, 3.0, 6+) for the first time since December 2017’s 3.1. Dropping from sixth to seventh is iHeartMedia adult hits WODC “93.3 The Bus.” WODC has been +3.7 (December 2018/“Holiday” 2018); -4.1 (January 2019); +.9 (May); -.5 (June); +1.0 (July); and now -1.4 in August/September (5.6 – 4.7 – 4.2, fifth to sixth, 6+). Prior to the June sweep, WODC notched three consecutive up or flat sweeps that yielded a +1.0 (4.1 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 5.1, 6+). July’s 5.6 was its best 6+-stat since 8.7 in “Holiday” 2018. In addition to “The Bus,” urban contemporary sibling WZCB “106.7 The Beat” (eighth to tenth) and One Connection Media Group contemporary Christian WCVO “104.9 The River” (#10 to #11) are off one-half share in September. “The Beat” had been +1.7 via six straight positive trends (2.6 – 2.9 – 3.1 – 3.5 – 3.6 – 4.0 – 4.3, 6+), but is now -1.1 in August/September (4.3 – 3.7 – 3.2, 6+). “The River” has lost nine-tenths in August/September (3.5 – 3.1 – 2.6, 6+) and has its lowest 6+-stat (2.6) since January’s 2.5.

San Jose

Spoken-Word Formats – After surrendering more than 50% of its 6+ AQH share (-1.6) in ten straight negative or neutral San Jose sweeps (3.0 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.4, 6+), Cumulus Media news/talk KGO puts together back-to-back increases of four-tenths (1.4 – 1.8 – 2.2, flat at #19, 6+). Co-owned news/talk KSFO returns August’s +.2 (.8 #24 to #27, 6+). KSFO gained two-tenths in August, thus halting three successive declines that accounted for a loss of roughly half (-.7) of its 6+-stat (1.5 – 1.3 – 1.2 – .8, 6+).

While flat at 3.6 (6+), Cumulus Media sports talk KNBR-AM “The Sports Leader” (Giants) improves from eighth to seventh. KNBR-AM erased June’s half-share decrease and posted a 4.2 (6+) three times in the previous four reports (4.2 – 4.2 – 3.7 – 4.2, 6+). Less than a week before the September ratings period concluded (9/6), co-owned triple A KFOG ditched its longtime music format and became sports talk KNBR-FM (1.8 – 1.2, -.6, #24, 6+). Like KNBR-AM, Entercom’s similarly-formatted KGMZ “95.7 The Game” was down six-tenths in August but picks up one-tenth to 1.1 (#24 to #25, 6+), thus suspending three straight sharp declines that eroded nearly two-thirds (-1.9) of its 6+ AQH share (2.9 – 2.4 – 1.6 – 1.0, 6+). This came immediately after a +1.4 as a result of three consecutive increases (1.5 – 1.7 – 1.9 – 2.9, 6+).

A one-tenth bump to 5.7 (flat at #4, 6+) by Entercom all-news KCBS-AM ends its repetitive April 2019 through August 2019 topline of: 5.6 – 5.2 – 5.6 – 5.2 – 5.6 (6+). KCBS-AM was -1.9 in three straight March through May decreases.

Repeating its (6+) August 2019 market share and rank (6.0, #3) is Northern California Public Broadcasting news/talk KQED, which immediately prior was a collective -1.1 in three straight slips (7.1 – 6.9 – 6.1 – 6.0, 6+). Up six-tenths in July (.7 – 1.3, 6+) but then down three-tenths to 1.0 (6+) in August, San Francisco Unified School District news/talk KALW is flat at 1.0 (#24 to #26, 6+).

San Jose Music Formats – Not only is Spanish Broadcasting System regional Mexican KRZZ an overall +1.5 in four straight sweeps without a loss (1.0 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.6 – 2.5, 6+), “93.3 La Raza” zooms into the top twenty (#21 to #16). The last time KRZZ reached the two-share level (6+) in San Jose was July 2017 (2.0). Posting back-to-back increases of six-tenths (.1 – .7 – .1.3, 6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KJLV “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” progresses from #28 to #23. “K-Love” surfaced with a .6 (6+) in June but then lost one-half share in July (to .1, 6+). Improving by six-tenths as well in September is iHeartMedia urban contemporary KMEL “106.1 #1 For Hip-Hop and R&B” (2.7, #17 to #13), whose July/August’s -.6 (2.7 – 2.2 – 2.1, 6+) vanishes. The rollercoaster ride continues for Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KBRG “Amor 100.3,” which was an overall -1.1 in three successive declines (6.1 – 6.0 – 5.3 – 5.0, 6+); +.9 (July); -1.5 (August); and now +.5 in September (4.4 – 4.9, unchanged at #5, 6+). After dialing up an August +1.3 (7.3 – 8.6, 6+), Alpha Media classic hits-oldies KBAY is off three-tenths to 8.3 (6+) but “94.5 Bay FM – The Bay’s Greatest Hits” is #1 the fifth consecutive month. “Bay FM” answered April’s -1.5 with a May +1.3 (6.2 – 7.5, 6+), returning to #1 after an April-only stay at #2. Prior to the April sweep, KBAY had been +1.5 via three upticks in a row (6.2 – 6.9 – 7.3 – 7.7, 6+). Slipping from seventh to ninth, Bonneville-owned KUFX “98.5 K-Fox – The South Bay’s Classic Rock” spirals by a collective -2.7 via four straight setbacks (5.8 – 5.3 – 4.9 – 3.9 – 3.1, 6+). Forfeiting all but one-tenth of August’s +.6 (3.6 – 3.1, -.5, 6+) Univision Radio regional Mexican KSOL “Que Buena” falls from eighth to ninth. In August, “Que Buena” had its best 6+-stat (3.6) in nearly two years (3.8, November 2017). Unlisted in San Jose the ninth month in a row are Bonneville cluster-mates adult contemporary KOIT-FM “Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites”; CHR KMVQ “Now 99.7”; and urban AC KBLX “102.9 R&B and Old School.”

Raleigh

Spoken-Word Formats – Having been an overall -1.8 in four straight downturns (6.5 – 6.1 – 5.8 – 5.3 – 4.7, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WTKK “106.1 Stay Connected” is now +.7 in August/September (4.7 – 5.2 -5.4, 6+) and repeats at #8. Down six-tenths in three straight sweeps without an increase (1.9 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.3, 6+), Curtis Media Group news/talk WPTF “News Radio 680” slips from #16 to #17.

A September increase of four-tenths to 2.5 (6+) by Capitol Broadcasting sports talk WCMC “99.9 The Fan” wipes away five straight down or flat moves that resulted in a loss of three tenths (2.4 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.1, 6+). After finishing at #15 the past five months, Raleigh’s “Fan” moves to #14. Co-owned/similarly-formatted model of consistency WDNC “620 The Ticket” has an August 2018 through September 2019 topline of: .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .2 – .2 – .1 – .1 – .2 – .1 – .1 (#26 to #25, 6+).

Immediately after posting an August +1.0 to 8.5, its best 6+-stat since 8.8 in August 2018, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill news/talk WUNC “91.5 North Carolina Public Radio” plummets by -1.1 to 7.4 (6+) and segues from first to third.

Raleigh Music Formats – Roaring back from August’s loss of six tenths with a September mega-gain of +1.4 (6.1 – 7.5, 6+), Capitol Broadcasting adult contemporary WRAL “Mix 101.5 – The Variety That Makes You Feel Good” leaps from sixth to second. When “Mix” gained two-tenths in July, it halted four successive down or flat sweeps that resulted in a -2.1 (8.6 – 7.7 – 7.7 – 7.5 – 6.5, 6+). August’s 6.1 is the lowest 6+ showing for WRAL since October 2018’s 5.3. Even though Curtis Media Group classic hits-oldies WKIX replaces August’s half-share decrease with a September boost of seven-tenths (3.5 – 3.0 – 3.7, 6+), “KIX 102.9 – Carolina’s Greatest Hits” continues at #12. In four of the last five sweeps, iHeartMedia country WNCB posted a 2.9 (2.9 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.7 – 2.9, 6+), but “B-93.9 #1 For New Country” improves by six-tenths to 3.5 (6+) and is unchanged at #13. The last time WNCB reached the three-share level (6+) was in August 2018 (3.3). A combined -1.5 in July/August (6.9 – 5.5 – 5.4, 6+), co-owned WRDU “Classic Rock 100.7” notches a half-share jump to 5.9 (6+) and continues at #7. Over and above being +.6 in August/September (8.2 – 8.4 – 8.8, 6+), Radio One  urban AC WFXC “Foxy – Today’s R&B and Classic Soul” is back at #1 after an August-only stay at #2. “Foxy” spent 12 consecutive survey periods on top, prior to segueing to the runner-up slot in August. Its gain of two-tenths this time last month snapped six straight down or flat sweeps that resulted in an overall -2.8 (11.0 – 9.9 – 9.5 – 9.5 – 9.1 – 8.8 – 8.2, 6+). Six recent WFXC (6+) fluctuations include: +.9 (November 2018); -1.5 (December); +1.1 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.1 (January 2019); -1.1 (February); and -.6 (July). January’s +1.1 took WFXC to 11.0, its highest 6+-stat in the PPM-era. Deflating by seven-tenths each are its urban contemporary sibling WQOK “K-97.5” (6.3, third to sixth, 6+) and gospel cluster-mate WNNL “The Light 103.9 – The Triangle’s Inspiration Station” (4.5, eighth to tenth, 6+). Entering the September ratings period, “K-97.5” was up eight-tenths in July/August (6.2 – 6.7 – 7.0, 6+). Meanwhile, “The Light” turns off seven consecutive up or flat moves that resulted in a collective +1.5 (3.7 – 3.9 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 4.5 – 4.6 – 5.2, 6+). In August, WNNL had its strongest 6+-stat since October 2018 (5.2, as well). A -.9 in March/April (6.0 – 5.4 – 5.1, 6+); +1.1 in May/June (5.1 – 5.5 – 6.2, 6+); and -1.1 in July/August (6.2 – 5.6 – 5.1, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned CHR WDCG “G-105 – Raleigh’s #1 Hit Music Station” is up three-tenths to 5.4 (tenth to eighth, 6+). Owing to nine negative or neutral Raleigh reports in succession (3.2 – 2.9 – 2.1 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.3 – .9, 6+), Curtis Media Group-owned regional Mexican WYMY has had its 6+ AQH share sliced by roughly 72% (-2.3); “La Ley 101.1” falls from #17 to #20.

Indianapolis

Spoken-Word Formats – Despite dropping two-tenths (6.5 – 6.3, 6+), Emmis news/talk WIBC “Indy’s Mobile News 93.1” progresses from fifth to fourth. Recent WIBC shifts include: +1.0 (October 2018); +.7 (November); -.9 (December); -.9 (“Holiday” 2018); +.9 (January 2019); +.9 (February); -.8 (March); -1.2 (April); +.9 (June); and +.5 (August).

Off seven-tenths in three straight decreases (2.4 – 2.3 – 1.9 – 1.7, 6+), Emmis’ WFNI “The Fan – Indy’s Sports Center” obliterates that deficit with a +.8 to 2.5 (steady at #16, 6+). Repeating at #18, iHeartMedia’s “Indy’s Sports Station” returns August’s +.1 (1.0 – 1.1 – 1.0, 6+). That August increase halted six successive sweeps without an increase that led to a -.8 (1.8 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.0 – 1.0, 6+). Cumulus Media’s WXNT “CBS Sports AM 1430,” which logged a .1 (6+) in July and August, disappears from print.

A combined +1.4 in July/August (3.9 – 4.9 – 5.3, 6+), following a -.7 in June (4.6 – 3.9, 6+), Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting news/talk WFYI surrenders one-half share in September to 4.8 (6+) but stays at #8.

Indianapolis Music Formats – The (6+) AQH share of “11.1” has a great deal of significance lately for Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK “Classic Hits 104.5.” In July, WJJK registered a massive +1.4 to 11.1 (6+) only to plummet -1.1 to 10.0 (6+) in August. “Classic Hits 104.5” recaptures that shortfall in its entirety (+1.1) and is back to 11.1, the highest 6+-share in the station’s PPM-history, eclipsing April’s 10.2. Furthermore, WJJK is #1 the ninth sweep in succession. After spending six straight ratings periods on top, “Classic Hits 104.5” slipped to third in “Holiday” 2018 but returned to #1 this past January. Among WJJK’s shifts this year are: +2.9 (January); -.7 (February); -.6 (March); +1.7 (April); +1.4 (July); -1.1 (August); and +1.1 (September). A combined -.9 in July/August (3.6 – 2.9 – 2.7, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WOLT “Alt 103.3 Indy’s Alternative” wipes away two-thirds of that deficit with a +.6 to 3.3 (#14 to #11, 6+). Slipping from third to sixth, Emmis’ WLHK “Country 97.1 Hank” is -1.2 in August/September (7.2 – 7.1 – 6.0, 6+). Prior to July’s 7.2, “Hank” last reached the seven-share threshold in May 2018 (7.1); WLHK was a combined +1.1 in June/July (6.1 – 6.2 – 7.2, 6+). Up four-tenths to 7.3 (6+), following a combined -.7 in July/August (7.6 – 7.5 – 6.9, 6+), its format foe, Cumulus Media’s WFMS “95.5 The Country Station,” inches up from fourth to third. August’s 6.9 is its lowest 6+-stat since 6.1 in “Holiday” 2018. Notwithstanding that Entercom CHR WZPL records its third loss in a row for an overall -1.3 (6.2 – 6.0 – 5.8 – 4.9, 6+) and is below a five-share (4.9, 6+) for the first time since “Holiday” 2018’s 4.6, “99.5 ZPL” is unchanged at #7. As a result of four straight down or flat moves, Cumulus Media hot AC WNTR “107.9 The Mix” has lost roughly 42% (-2.1) of its 6+ AQH share (5.0 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.7 – 2.9, #11 to #13, 6+).

Milwaukee

Spoken-Word Formats – A combined +3.5 in April/May (5.9 – 8.8 – 9.4, 6+) but then -2.3 in three straight setbacks (9.4 – 8.7 – 7.6 – 7.1, 6+), Good Karma Brands’ news/talk WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Brewers, Packers) is up four-tenths in September (7.5, fourth to third, 6+). By gaining one-tenth to 4.7 (ninth to eighth, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WISN “News/Talk 1130” suspends three decreases in succession that accounted for a collective -1.1 (5.7 – 5.3 – 5.0 – 4.6, 6+).

Finishing at #17, #18, and #19, respectively, are: Good Karma Brands’ WKTI “94.5 ESPN” (four-way tie at #16 to #17, 6+); iHeartMedia’s WRNW “The Game” (four-way tie at #16 to #18, 6+); and Entercom’s WSSP “Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” (#20 to #19, 6+). A theme of two-tenths runs among these three sports talkers as WKTI gains two-tenths in three straight up or flat moves (.6 – .7 – .7 – .8, 6+); “The Game” loses two-tenths in August/September (.9 – .7 – .7, 6+); and “The Fan” scores two-tenths in August/September (.4 – .5 – .6, 6+). Add iHeartMedia’s WOKY “The Big 920” to this two-tenths-flavored mix and you get a sports talk station that has posted two-tenths (.2, 6+) in six straight sweeps and eight of the last nine (.2 – .2 – .3 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2, flat at #22, 6+).

Anchored at #13, University of Wisconsin news/talk WUWM repeats August’s 3.3 (6+). Ended at five this time last month (owing to a +.3) was its consecutive string of down or flat moves that resulted in a collective -1.8 (4.8 – 4.8 – 4.4 – 3.9 – 3.3 – 3.0, 6+). The scenario is nearly identical for Wisconsin Public Radio news/talk WHAD, which repeats August’s 6+ AQH share (1.1) and market rank (#15), directly after gaining three-tenths to halt five straight sweeps without an increase that led to a loss of one-half share (1.3 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.0 – .9 -.8, 6+).

Milwaukee Music Formats – July’s mammoth -1.6 by Entercom hot AC WMYX nearly vanishes as “99.1 The Mix” adds seven-tenths to August’s positive spike of six-tenths (5.1 – 5.7 – 6.4, sixth to fifth, 6+). July’s 5.1 is its lowest 6+-stat since November 2018 (4.8). Up two-tenths (9.4 – 9.6, 6+), iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies sibling WRIT “95.7 Big FM Milwaukee’s Greatest Hits” is #1 the fourth month in a row. A combined +1.1 in June/July (8.6 – 9.4 – 9.7, 6+), WRIT occupied the lead position five straight sweeps before segueing to #2 in May with its lowest 6+-figure (8.6) since December 2018’s 7.7. Having spent 43 consecutive ratings periods at #1, “Big FM” shifted to #2 in October 2018. “Holiday” 2018’s 11.5 is the strongest 6+-stat for any Milwaukee station since WRIT’s 11.6 in “Holiday” 2017. Eight of its recent (6+) moves are: -1.0 (December); +3.8 (“Holiday” 2018); – 1.9 (January 2019); +.6 (February); -.8 (March); +.7 (April); -1.5 (May); and +.8 (June). Falling from eighth to tenth, Entercom CHR WXSS “103.7 Kiss-FM” is an overall -1.4 as a result of three setbacks in succession (5.5 – 5.4 – 5.0 – 4.1, 6+) and has its softest 6+-stat since May 2018 (4.1, as well). After logging three straight upticks that yielded a +2.2 (5.3 – 5.9 – 7.1 – 7.5, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WMIL “FM 106.1 Milwaukee’s Best Country” dips by one-tenth to 7.4 (third to fourth, 6+). In August, WMIL recorded its highest 6+-stat since January (7.5, as well). Co-owned urban contemporary WKKV “V-100.7 Jams” loses two-tenths to 5.2 (flat at #7, 6+), thus snapping at five its successive strong of up or flat reports that netted a +1.1 (4.3 – 4.3 – 4.8 – 4.8 – 5.4 – 5.4, 6+). Alpha Media’s WIIL “95 WIIL Rock” hasn’t had an increase in seven straight sweeps and has lost three-tenths in that February 2019 through September 2019 timeframe (.8 – .8 – .6 – .6 – .6 – .6 – .5 – .5, #20 to #21, 6+).

Saturday, October 5, 2019

September 2019 PPM Data – The fourth and final round of September 2019 ratings information from Nielsen Audio‘s PPM survey has been released for 12 markets, including: Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen’s September 2019 PPM survey period covered August 15 – September 11.  See all the 6+ ratings from subscribing stations here.  Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” from the following nine PPM markets.

Charlotte

Spoken-Word Formats – By gaining four-tenths (3.3 – 3.7, 6+), Entercom news/talk WBT (Carolina Panthers) climbs from #12 to #11; WBT was -.9 in June and +1.2 in July.

After logging a half-share increase in August (1.3 – 1.8, 6+), co-owned WFNZ “The Fan – Charlotte’s Sports Leader” drops two-tenths to 1.6 (#16 to #18, 6+).

In all eight sweeps this calendar year, University Radio Foundation news/talk WFAE has remained in two-share range: 2.7 – 2.9 – 2.3 – 2.8 – 2.3 – 2.1 – 2.4 – 2.2 – 2.4 (flat at #15, 6+). Despite adding one-tenth (.1 – .2, 6+), South Carolina Educational Television Commission news/talk WNSC slips from #21 to #23.

Charlotte Music Formats – Over and above racking up its third straight uptick for a collective +2.1 (5.4 – 6.4 – 6.7 – 7.5, 6+), iHeartMedia classic rock WRFX “99.7 The Fox” jumps from third to first. “The Fox” crosses the seven-share threshold (7.5, 6+) for the first time since March 2018 (7.3, 6+), which is when WRFX last occupied the top spot. A combined +1.4 in July/August (5.5 – 6.2 – 6.9, 6+), Beasley Media Group urban AC WBAV “V-101.9” erodes by -1.0 to 5.9 (6+) and – after an August-only stay at #1 – falls to third. Its 6.9 in August was its best 6+-stat since September 2018 (6.9, as well). Duplicating August’s half-share improvement (4.0 – 4.5 – 5.0, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR WHQC advances from tenth to eighth and returns “Hits 96.1” to May’s 5.0 (6+). Consecutive losses (June and July) accounted for a -1.0 (5.0 – 4.7 – 4.0, 6+) with July’s 4.0 the lowest 6+-showing for WHQC since November 2018 (3.4). The market’s (6+) country share falters by -1.2, nearly equally divided between Beasley Media Group-owned WSOC “103.7 Country’s Hottest Hits” (6.8 – 6.1, -.7, flat at #2, 6+) and iHeartMedia’s WKKT “96.9 The Kat – Charlotte’s #1 for New Country” (6.0 – 5.5, -.5, fourth to fifth, 6+). A combined -1.5 in June/July (7.5 – 6.9 – 6.0, 6+), WSOC was up eight-tenths in August. Prior to segueing to #2 in June, “103.7 Country’s Hottest Hits” was on top the previous four months. May’s improvement of eight-tenths delivered WSOC its strongest 6+-stat since November 2018 (7.5, as well). WSOC’s internet stream debuts at #20 (.5, 6+). Meanwhile, “The Kat” was +1.3 in five successive positive or neutral moves (5.3 – 6.1 – 6.3 – 6.4 – 6.4 – 6.6, 6+) before dropping six-tenths in August. Off seven-tenths (5.6 – 4.9, 6+), Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WKQC “K-104.7 More Music/Better Variety” falls from sixth to ninth. Regressing by one-half share each are Entercom hot AC WLNK “107.9 The Link Charlotte’s Best Mix” (flat at #11) and Radio One gospel WPZS “Praise 100.9 Charlotte’s Inspiration Station” (2.8 – #12 to #13, 6+). “The Link” has lost a collective nine-tenths in three straight down or flat reports (4.6 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 3.7, 6+)  and has its lowest 6+-stat in nearly three years (3.7, as well in October 2016). A combined +1.3 in July/August (2.0 – 2.4 – 3.3, 6+), “Praise” reached the three-share level (3.3, August, 6+) the first time since February’s 3.4. Its July increase curtailed four consecutive down or flat trends that accounted for a -1.4 (3.4 – 2.9 – 2.8 – 2.4 – 2.0, 6+). In the contemporary Christian arena, Radio Training Network’s WLFJ “HIS Radio,” which quadrupled (+.9) its 6+ AQH share in five straight positive or neutral reports (.3 – .7 – .8 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.2, 6+), drops one-tenth to 1.1 (6+) but stays at #19. After recording a one-half share increase in June (2.1 – 2.6, #14, 6+), Educational Media Foundation’s similarly-formatted WRCM “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” is unlisted for the third month in a row.

St. Louis

Spoken-Word Formats – An overall -2.3 in four successive losses (7.3 – 6.6 – 6.2 – 5.2 – 5.0, 6+), Entercom news/talk KMOX “The Voice of St. Louis” (Cardinals) applies the brakes with a whopping +1.4 to 6.4 (6+) and rockets from seventh to second. Co-owned KFTK “FM News Talk 97.1” adds three-tenths to August’s half-share increase (2.3 – 2.8 – 3.1, #18 to #17, 6+) and has its best 6+-showing (3.1) since June 2018’s 3.3.

Having fully erased July’s -.6 with an August/September +.6 (3.1 – 3.3 – 3.7, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting sports talk WXOS “101 Sports” climbs from #16 to #15.

The March 2019 through September 2019 (6+) topline for University of Missouri news/talk KWMU (#15 to #16) is: 3.7 – 3.2 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.3.

St. Louis Music Formats – An increase of nine-tenths (4.7 – 5.6, 6+) takes KEZK “The Best Mix of the ‘80s & Today” to its highest (6+) showing (5.6) since February’s 7.0; the Entercom adult contemporary outlet zooms from tenth to fifth. After being an overall -2.2 via four consecutive sweeps without an increase (7.2 – 6.7 – 6.0 – 5.0 – 5.0, 6+), Gateway Creative Broadcasting contemporary Christian KLJY curtails the skid with a +.2 to 5.2 (6+) yet “99.1 Joy FM” backslides from seventh to ninth. In addition to being on top the fifth straight month, Hubbard Broadcasting-owned KSHE “95 Real Rock Radio” displays an increase of seven-tenths (8.6 – 9.3, 6+). In February, KSHE was tied for #1 with iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KLOU and took sole possession of first-place the following month. “Real Rock Radio” had to share the lead again in April but on that occasion, it was with Entercom news/talk KMOX. KSHE has had sole possession of the top spot in May, June, July, August, and September. Some of its recent shifts include: -.7 (Holiday” 2018); +2.0 (January 2019); -.5 (February); +1.3 (March); -1.6 (April); +.9 (June); and +.7 (September). Aforementioned KLOU “103.3 St. Louis’ Greatest Hits” returns in its entirety August’s +.9 (6.8 – 5.9, -.9, 6+) and slips from second to fourth. August’s 6.8 was its best 6+-stat since March (6.8, as well). As is the case with KLOU, Hubbard Broadcasting’s WIL is down nine-tenths in September. A combined +.6 in July/August (5.8 – 6.1 – 6.4, 6+), “New Country 92.3” dips from third to seventh (6.4 – 5.5, 6+). Its format challenger, iHeartMedia’s KSD “93.7 The Bull – #1 For New Country,” continues an up/down pattern that commenced in February: +.5 (February); -.5 (March); +.9 (April); -.7 (May); +.5 (June); -.2 (July); +.5 (August); and now -.4 in September (5.0 – 4.6, seventh to tenth, 6+). Entercom CHR KNOU “Now 96.3,” which was a combined -1.3 in June/July (5.1 – 3.9 – 3.8, 6+), relinquishes in total August’s +.7 (3.8 – 3.5 – 3.8, #11 to #14, 6+).

Riverside

Spoken-Word Formats – Unlisted in May, June and July, iHeartMedia news talk KKDD “1290 News Talk IE” resurfaces with a .1 in August (#20, 6+) and a .1 in September (#23, 6+).

This is the fourth time in a row co-owned KPWK “Fox Sports Radio 1350 AM” is without an increase (.2 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1, #20 to #23, 6+) and the 21^st straight sweep that similarly-formatted/Los Angeles Angels-owned (LAA 1, LLC) KLAA “Angels Radio AM 830” is unlisted.

Advancing from #14 to #13, San Bernardino Community College news/talk KVCR logs a .8 (6+) the third time in the last six reports (.8 – .4 – .6 – .5 – .8 – .8, 6+). In a similar vein, Pasadena City College news/talk KPCC “The Voice of Southern California” posts a .3 (6+) the fourth time in the last six ratings periods (.1 – .3 – .1 – .3 – .3 – .3, #16 to #19, 6+).

Riverside Music Formats – A collective -1.7 as a result of faltering in six of the last seven sweeps (4.1 – 3.9 – 3.8 – 3.6 – 3.3 – 3.4 – 3.2 – 2.4, 6+), Good News Radio contemporary Christian KSGN answers with a September +1.0 to 3.4 (eighth to fourth, 6+). In August, “Family Friendly 89.7” fell below a three-share (2.4, 6+) for the first time since November 2018’s 2.7. Not only does KOLA haul out a September +.8 (6.9 – 7.7, 6+) to carve away roughly half of July/August’s -1.7 (8.6 – 7.6 – 6.9, 6+), the Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies station returns to #1. KOLA occupied the top spot in April, May, June, and July before segueing to #2 in August. Immediately prior to July/August’s -1.7, KOLA was +1.8 via three successive positive spikes (6.8 – 7.2 – 8.0 – 8.6, 6+). Off two-two-tenths (7.5 – 7.3, 6+), Entravision Spanish adult hits KLYY “Jose,” which was +1.3 in July/August (6.2 – 6.7 – 7.5, 6+), drops from first to second. Immediately in advance of the July report, KLYY was an overall -4.3 in seven straight declines (10.5 – 8.5 – 8.2 – 8.1 – 7.4 – 7.0 – 6.4 – 6.2, 6+). “Jose” had been in the runner-up slot in April, May, June, and July. December 2018’s 10.5 marked the first time any Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario station reached double-figures (6+) since April 2015, when KLYY recorded a 10.4. Unchanged in fourth-place, iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR KGGI “99.1 Riverside’s Hottest Hit Music” is -1.0 in August/September (4.4 – 4.1 – 3.4, 6+). Following four consecutive down or flat trends that led to a loss of eight-tenths (3.3 – 3.1 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 2.5, 6+), Liberman Broadcasting regional Mexican KRQB pulls the plug with a +.2 to 2.7 (seventh to eighth, 6+). August’s 2.5 was the lowest 6+-showing for “Que Buena 96.1” since November 2018’s 2.3. Forfeiting roughly half (-1.8) its 6+-share via six consecutive decreases (3.7 – 3.4 – 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.3 – 2.1 – 1.9, 6+), LC Media urban-rhythmic oldies KQIE continues in ninth-place. Leading up to this particular streak, “Old School 104.7” chalked up a +1.6 in three successive improvements (2.1 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 3.7, 6+). Educational Media Foundation-owned contemporary Christian KLRD “Air 1 – Worship Now” (1.6, #11, June 2019, 6+) and co-owned/similarly-formatted KKLQ “Positive, Encouraging 100.3” (.7, #15, June 2019, 6+) – are unlisted for the third month in a row.

San Antonio

Spoken-Word Formats – Repeating in third-place, iHeartMedia-owned WOAI “News Radio 1200 – San Antonio’s News, Traffic, & Weather” is an overall +1.3 in three straight up or flat moves (4.3 – 5.0 – 5.6 – 5.6, 6+). After logging a +.6 to 1.8, its best 6+-showing since June 2018 (1.8, as well), Alpha Media news/talk KTSA “Stay Connected” drops one-tenth to 1.7 (flat at #21, 6+).

Owing to four successive up or flat moves, iHeartMedia’s KTKR “Ticket 760 – San Antonio’s Sports Station” has more than tripled (+.5) its 6+ AQH-share (.2 – .3 – .3 – .5 – .7, #30 to #27, 6+). Alpha Media’s KZDC “ESPN San Antonio” regains the one-tenth it lost in August (.3 – .2 – .3, #33 to #32, 6+).

Up one-tenth (3.0 – 3.1, 6+), Texas Public Radio news/talk KSTX repeats at #15.

San Antonio Music Formats – Not only is Alpha Media CHR KTFM an overall +1.6 through three straight upticks (2.6 – 2.9 – 3.3 – 4.2, 6+), “Energy 94.1” cracks the top ten (#14 to #8). Cox Media Group hot AC KSMG “Magic 105.3,” which lost a collective seven-tenths in four consecutive down or flat trends (5.0 – 4.5 – 4.5 – 4.4 – 4.3, 6+), wipes away that shortfall completely with a +.8 to 5.1 (eighth to fifth, 6+). Classic hits-oldies sibling KONO-FM gains one-half share to 7.2 (6+), thus applying the brakes to three decreases in succession that accounted for an overall -1.8 (8.5 – 8.2 – 7.1 – 6.7, 6+). Moreover, “101.1 San Antonio’s Greatest Hits” is #1 the seventh month in a row. Whereas May’s 8.5 is its highest 6+-stat since September 2018’s 8.8, August’s 6.7 (6+) is its lowest since “Holiday” 2018’s 6.0 (6+). “San Antonio’s Greatest Hits” had been the runner-up five successive times before progressing to #1 in March. By dropping eight-tenths (4.4 – 3.6, 6+) iHeartMedia adult contemporary KQXT “Q-101.9” departs the top ten (#7 to #12) and falls below a four-share (3.6, 6+) for the first time since February 2015 (3.8). Co-owned regional Mexican KQXT-HD3, which was +1.0 in four sweeps in a row without a loss (.8 – .8 – .8 – 1.5 – 1.8, 6+), surrenders six-tenths to 1.2 (#21 to #22, 6+). Losing one-half share each are Univision Radio KVBH rhythmic hot AC KVBH “The Vibe” (#15 to #17); Educational Media Foundation-owned KZAR “Air 1 – Worship Now” (#23 to #24); and Univision Radio’s KXTN “1350 AM Tejano & Proud” (.9 – .4, #31, 6+). Entering the September sweep, “The Vibe” was +1.0 in three straight increases (2.0 – 2.1 – 2.7 – 3.0, 6+). June’s +.1 halted four consecutive negative or neutral moves that accounted for an overall -1.4 (3.4 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 2.9 – 2.0, 6+). KZAR has lost just over 50% (-1.1) of its 6+ AQH share in August/September (2.0 – 1.4 – .9, 6+). In this Texas market’s consistently competitive country battle, Cox Media Group-owned KCYY “Y-100 San Antonio’s New Country Leader” is -1.1 in four straight drops (7.2 – 6.9 – 6.4 – 6.2 – 6.1, flat at #2, 6+), while iHeartMedia’s KAJA “KJ-97 San Antonio’s #1 Country Station,” which was -1.1 in three consecutive losses (6.2 – 6.0 – 5.5 – 5.1, 6+), suspends the slide with a +.3 to 5.4 (steady at #4, 6+). Recent shifts for “Y-100” include: -.8 (December 2018); -1.1 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.8 (January 2019); +.6 (February); -.6 (March); +.6 (May); and -.5 (July). “KJ-97” has been -1.1 (October 2018); +1.0 (December); -1.0 (“Holiday” 2018); +3.0 (January 2019); –1.9 (March); and -.5 (July).

Sacramento

Spoken-Word Formats – Stuck on 5.2 (6+) in June and July, iHeartMedia-owned news/talk KFBK recorded a one-half share increase to 5.7 in August. “Sacramento’s News, Weather and Traffic Station” repeats that 5.7 (6+) in September, as well as August’s fourth-place ranking. Co-owned KSTE “Talk 650” is off three-tenths (3.3 – 3.0, 6+) and slips from #13 to #14; August’s 3.3 was its highest 6+-stat since February 2017’s 3.6.

Continuing to shadow each other are Entercom’s KIFM-AM “ESPN Radio 1320,” which is up or flat the third time in a row for a net gain of three-tenths (.7 – .7 – .8 -1.0, #22 to #21, 6+) and Bonneville’s KHTK “Sports 1140,” which is without a loss the fourth successive sweep for a +.3 as well (.6 – .6 – .7 – .8 – .9, flat at #22, 6+). The two sports talkers were tied in August with identical (.7 – .8, +.1, 6+) profiles.

After dropping two-tenths in August to 4.8 (6+), Capital Public Radio news/talk KXJZ rebounds with a half-share increase to 5.3 (seventh to fifth, 6+); December 2018’s 6.9 is the highest 6+-stat in its PPM-history. Flat at #25, Northern California Public Broadcasting’s KQEI is down or flat the third time in a row for a -.3 (.7 – .6 – .4 – .4, 6+).

Sacramento Music Formats – Via three spikes in succession, Entercom’s KRXQ is +1.1 (5.0 – 5.2 – 6.0 – 6.1, 6+); “98 Rock” is steady in third-place. Adding six-tenths to August’s +.2 (1.0 – 1.2 – 1.8, 6+), Capital Public Radio classical KXPR elevates from #18 to #16 with its strongest 6+-performance (1.8) since April 2018’s 2.2. Notching September 2019 increases of one-half share each are Bonneville hot AC KZZO “Now 100.5 Today’s Best Hits” (#12 to #11) and Entercom rhythmic CHR KSFM (#14 to #13). “Now” is a combined +.9 in August/September (3.2 – 3.6 – 4.1, 6+), while KSFM has its best 6+-stat (3.5) since November 2018’s 3.7. Co-owned KSEG “96.9 The Eagle – Sacramento’s Classic Rock” (7.9 – 7.6, -.3, 6+) is #1 the eighth month in a row. A combined -1.1 in June/July (8.9 – 8.3 – 7.8, 6+), KSEG gained one tenth in August. “The Eagle” held the lead position ten consecutive survey periods before shifting to #2 in December. Seven of its recent fluctuations include: -1.1 (November 2018); -.8 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.0 (February 2019); -.5 (April); +.9 (May); -.6 (June); and -.5 (July). Lotus Communications regional Mexican KVMX-FM “La Ranchera,” which was an overall +2.0 in four straight up or flat moves (.3 – .3 – .3 – 2.1 – 2.3, 6+), surrenders exactly half that increase (1.3, -1.0, 6+) and slips from #15 to #17. KVMX-AM, which was trending .9 – 1.1 – 1.4 – 1.7 (6+) for a collective March 2019 through June 2019 gain of eight-tenths, is unlisted for the third month in a row. Locked on 4.7 (6+) in July and August, iHeartMedia urban-rhythmic oldies KHYL “V-101” falters by eight-tenths to 4.0 (6+) and departs the top ten (#8 to #12) with its lowest 6+-stat since February (4.0, as well). Dropping from fifth to sixth, Entercom CHR KUDL “106.5 The End” is an overall -1.1 via four down or flat moves in succession (6.0 – 5.7 – 5.7 – 5.5 – 4.9, 6+). After finishing in eighth-place the past four ratings periods, Bonneville adult contemporary KYMX “Mix 96 – Today’s Hits/Yesterday’s Favorites” regresses by one-half share (4.7 – 4.2, 6+) and drops to tenth. Before picking up one-tenth in July, “Mix 96” had been without a gain three successive sweeps for a collective -1.6 (6.2 – 5.7 – 4.6 – 4.6, 6+). Leapfrogging “Mix” is iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted KBEB “92.5 The Breeze,” a combined +.9 in August/September (3.9 – 4.4 – 4.8, tenth to seventh, 6+). KBEB switched from country to adult contemporary in mid-November. In advance of March/April’s -.8 (4.5 – 4.3 – 3.7, 6+), “The Breeze” netted a +2.1 in three straight positive spikes (2.4 – 3.1 – 3.7 – 4.5, 6+). A loss of three-tenths (7.2 – 6.9, 6+) by Bonneville-owned KNCI interrupts three straight upticks that resulted in a +2.4 (4.8 – 5.6 – 6.0 – 7.2, 6+) but “New Country 105.1” repeats at #2. August’s 7.2 marked the first time any Sacramento country station reached the seven-share threshold (6+) in more than eight years – KNCI accomplished the feat in June 2011 with a 7.2 (6+). Immediately after posting four consecutive gains that netted a +1.4 (5.2 – 5.3 – 5.5 – 5.7 – 6.6, 6+), iHeartMedia classic rocker KYRV “93.7 The River” is -1.8 in three drops in a row (6.6 – 6.3 – 5.2 – 4.8, sixth to seventh, 6+).

Pittsburgh

Spoken-Word Formats – By gaining four-tenths to 3.6 (unchanged at #11, 6+), Entercom’s KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020” pulls the plug on seven straight negative or neutral reports that accounted for a -1.9 (5.1 – 4.6 – 4.3 – 4.1 – 3.7 – 3.3 – 3.2 – 3.2, 6+).

Co-owned sports talk KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan” (Pirates), which was a combined -.6 in July/August (6.3 – 6.1 – 5.7, 6+), erases that deficit completely with a +.6 to 6.3 (fifth to fourth, 6+). August’s 5.7 was its lowest 6+-share since December 2018’s 5.5. The September 2018 through September 2019 topline for iHeartMedia sports talk WBGG 970 AM – ESPN Pittsburgh” (Steelers) is amazingly consistent: 2 – .2 – .2 – .3 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .3 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2 (#17 to #19, 6+).

Despite being up a collective six-tenths in three bumps in a row (3.6 – 3.9 – 4.1 – 4.2, 6+), after June’s loss of that magnitude, Essential Public Media news/talk WESA “90.5 Pittsburgh’s NPR Station” backslides from eighth to ninth.

Pittsburgh Music Formats – At the same time that Entercom-owned WDSY “Y-108 Pittsburgh’s Country Music” improves by seven-tenths (4.9, steady at #7, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WPGB “Big 104.7 Pittsburgh’s #1 For New Country” sputters by one-half share (2.3, flat at #13). Entering the September sweep, “Y-108” was off six-tenths in three successive down or flat moves (4.8 – 4.6 – 4.2 – 4.2, 6+). This (4.9) is its best 6+-stat in exactly one year (5.1, September 2018). Meanwhile, “Big” was up a combined three-tenths in July/August (2.5 – 2.5 – 2.8, 6+). Advancing from ninth to eighth, iHeartMedia alternative WXDX “105.9 The X” is a collective +1.5 via three straight spikes (3.0 – 3.6 – 3.9 – 4.5, 6+) and has its highest 6+-share (4.5) since February’s 4.8. As a result of dropping four-tenths to 8.8 (6+), classic hits-oldies sibling WWSW suspends three boosts in succession that led to an overall +1.5 (7.7 – 8.5 – 8.9 – 9.2, 6+). Nonetheless, “94.5 3WS” is #1 the third straight time; 9.2 in August was its best 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2018’s 13.6. Surrendering in its entirety the seven-tenths it picked up in August (5.9 – 6.6 – 5.9, 6+), CHR cluster-mate WKST “96.1 Kiss – Pittsburgh’s #1 Hit Music Station” segues from fourth to fifth. August’s 6.6 was the best 6+-showing for “Kiss” since September 2018’s 6.7. Four consecutive down or flat reports by Entercom hot AC WBZZ resulted in an overall -1.2 (5.0 – 5.0 – 4.4 – 4.1 – 3.8, 6+), but “Star 100.7” wipes away one-third of that shortfall with a +.4 to 4.2 (tenth to ninth, 6+). Renda Broadcasting adult contemporary WSHH “Wish 99.7” is a cumulative -1.3 through four negative or neutral moves in a row (6.3 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 5.0, 6+) but continues at #6. Entercom urban contemporary WBZZ-HD3 and Martz Communications Group urban AC WAMO “107.3 The Beat” debut at #16 and #18, respectively. Unlisted for the third month in a row are Forever Media’s classic hits-oldies WKPL (1.7, June 2019, 6+); classic country WLYI (1.4, June 2019); country WOGI (.9, June 2019, 6+); country WOGG (.8, June 2019, 6+); and classic hits-oldies WPKL (.7, June 2019, 6+).

Salt Lake City