Tag: "Dan Yorke"
Monday, September 9, 2019
NewsTalk 99.7 & AM 630 WPRO to Present Opioid Crisis Special. This Friday (9/13), Cumulus Media’s “NewsTalk 99.7 FM & AM 630 WPRO” in Providence is presenting a day of broadcasts “aimed at confronting the opioid crisis and how it affects Rhode Island and Southern New England.” Titled, “Enough: WPRO’s Opioid Awareness Day,” all of the
station’s programs – “The News with Gene Valicenti,” “The Tara Granahan Show,” “The Matt Allen Show,” “The Dan Yorke Show,” and “The Gresh Show” will “bring listeners personal stories of addiction and recovery, information about city and state programs designed to help, and the physical and physiological effects of opioids which lead to the addiction.” Cumulus Media Providence market manager Holly Paras says, “As the opioid crisis continues to threaten the state of Rhode Island, WPRO understands that we have a responsibility to use our voice and our platform to discuss this terrifying epidemic. I am proud to be part of a station that understands this responsibility and is bringing this difficult but critically important conversation to the community.” Guests will include former Boston Celtics player Chris Herren, Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo and First Gentleman Andy Moffit, mental health advocate and former congressman Patrick Kennedy, recovery advocate John Tassoni, leaders from industries affected by the crisis, first responders, and more.
Monday Memo: Happy Birthday, Walkman. Consultant Holland Cooke’s Monday Memo recognized the 40th birthday of the Sony Walkman. He writes that, yes, “cassettes seem ancient now, but Sony saw the future 40 years ago. And today, smart broadcasters are cashing-in.” The Walkman allowed personal, isolated listening (via headphones) to go mobile and that paved the way for today’s podcasts. Read more here.
FOX News Radio Signs with Triton Digital for Audio Advertising Technology. This deal between FOX News Radio and Triton Digital allows FNR to the global technology
and service leader in the digital audio and podcast industry. The new deal will “leverage the comprehensive suite of audio advertising serving technology to allow insertion of targeted ads into FNR’s original podcasts. The network will also utilize Triton’s podcast management system for enhanced distribution across multiple podcast listening platforms including Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, TuneIn and Stitcher. Additionally, the partnership will enable listeners access to daily FNR programs, such as “The Brian Kilmeade Show” and “The Guy Benson Show,” as ad supported full-length podcasts.
Trump Cancels Afghanistan Peace Talks, 2020 Presidential Race, Hurricane Dorian/Bahamas Relief, U.S.-China Relations/Hong Kong Protests, Dems Trump Impeachment Strategy, and NFL Opening Weekend Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The news that President Trump canceled previously secret negotiations between the Taliban and the Afghanistan government; the Democrats and Republicans challenging President Trump in 2020; Hurricane Dorian’s weekend track and the devastation left in the Bahamas; U.S.-China trade relations and the continuing Democracy protests in Hong Kong; the Democrats’ strategy for building an impeachment case against President Trump; and the NFL’s opening weekend were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
WTAM, Cleveland Presenting Geraldo Rivera-Hosted 2020 Election Event. Tomorrow (9/10), iHeartMedia’s Cleveland news/talk outlet “Newsradio WTAM 1100” is presenting,
“Ohio: The Heart of 2020,” a live event hosted by FOX News correspondent-at-large and WTAM air personality Geraldo Rivera. The program will take place from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm and will feature a panel including: Shontel 
Brown, chairperson for the Democratic Party of Cuyahoga County; Rob Frost, chairman for the Republican Party of Cuyahoga County; Ohio Lieutenant Governor (and former Ohio Secretary of State) Jon Husted; Bill Wills, co-host of “Cleveland’s Morning News with Wills and Snyder” on WTAM 1100; and Tom Beres, former WKYC-TV, Cleveland senior political correspondent. Listeners are being given chances to attend the invite-only event by listening to the daily, 9:00 am to 10:00 am “Geraldo in Cleveland” program.
Joey Brooks Named SVP of Programming for iHeartMedia Connecticut. Programming pro Joey Brooks moves from his position at iHeartMedia’s Miami cluster – PD for hot AC WMIA and APD for CHR WHYI – to Connecticut to serve as senior vice president of
programming for the Hartford and New Haven markets that include news/talk stations WPOP-AM and WELI-AM and sports talkers WUCS-FM and WAVZ-AM. iHeartMedia Hartford region president Steve Honeycomb says, “Joey’s experience of leadership, drive, and passion for radio will be an amazing addition to our iHeartMedia teams in Hartford and New Haven. There is no doubt that Joey will take our nine market-leading radio brands to the next level as we continue to provide the best entertainment for our listeners.”
Former MLB Player and WXOS-FM, St. Louis Host Chris Duncan Passes at 38. He left Hubbard Radio’s WXOS-FM, St. Louis “101 ESPN” back in January to focus on his
health. On Friday (9/6), Chris Duncan died after a seven-year battle with brain cancer. Duncan came up into the big leagues in 2005 and was an integral part of the St. Louis Cardinals’ 2006 World Series Championship. After leaving baseball, he began his career as a sports talk radio host on “101 ESPN.” He was diagnosed with cancer in 2012 and underwent treatment. He made progress and returned to the air as a co-host of the midday show, “The Turn,” until leaving earlier this year.
TALKERS News Notes. Today (9/9), the new “Florida Man Radio” talk format debuts on
JVC Media’s WDYZ-AM, Altamonte Springs and W288CJ, Oviedo in the Orlando market. The station features Bubba the Love Sponge in morning drive, followed by Scott Ledger in middays and Shannon Burke in afternoon drive…..When the Texas Radio Hall of Fame inducts its class of 2019, George Gimarc, producer of Envision Networks’ nationally syndicated 24/7 comedy format, “Today’s Comedy,” will among its members. The induction celebration takes place on November 2 at the Texas Museum of Broadcasting and Communications. Gimarc is recognized for his work at KZEW-FM, KDGE-FM, and KRQX-FM in Dallas. Gimarc is credited with being instrumental in the birth of the classic rock and alternative formats…..Art Bell fans are being treated to 
classic “Coast to Coast AM” programs as Premiere Networks makes the Art Bell Vault – content from the years Art Bell hosted “Coast to Coast AM” – available online to Coast Insider subscribers. Premiere says, “As part of our initial 20 shows launching the Art Bell Vault, we’re showcasing some truly iconic episodes like the 1995 appearance of aspiring time traveler ‘Mad Man Marcum,’ who detailed his attempts to build a machine to journey into the past. Coast Insiders can also hear Mel Waters discuss a bottomless hole said to be in his backyard and a man named ‘Bugs,’ who purportedly shot a Bigfoot. In addition to that, subscribers can hear Art Bell’s first conversations with Father Malachi Martin as well as Dr. Michio Kaku.”
Music Radio News and Career Moves. KOAS-FM, Las Vegas “Jammin’ 105.7” afternoon drive personality Paco Lopez is promoted to program director of the Beasley Media Group hip hop station. He’ll continue his on-air role with the station. Beasley Las Vegas VP and market manager
Peter Burton says, “We are lucky to have such a seasoned and successful professional from the format on our team. Having been on the air and programmed in format successfully in markets like Washington DC, New York, Houston, and Miami, we consider ourselves lucky to have Paco on staff here in Las Vegas. He’s also an incredibly positive influence in the building. We are looking forward to him having great success with us here in Las Vegas.”…..Phoenix CHR KZZP “104.7 KISS FM” adds the YEA Networks-syndicated “Tino Cochino Radio” program to its schedule for the 8:00 pm to 12:00 midnight daypart. Station PD Mat Mitchell says, “My dream to have one of the best top 40 on-air personalities and influencers in the country join our program lineup has come true. Tino, Raquel and Nicasio are among the most driven people I’ve met in the industry and I cannot wait for their new night show to start in Phoenix while they continue to expand their syndication profile.”…..Pictured below at the WJMN, Boston “Summer Jam” event yesterday (9/8) is rapper Megan Thee Stallion (center) with WJMN personalities. Megan sat down for an interview with morning host Ashlee in which she said she believes Nikki Minaj will record again, contrary to her recent surprise retirement announcement. Seen with Megan are (from l-r): DJ Pup Dawg, Ashlee, Santi, and DJ 4eign. Photo: Bethany Anna
August 2019 PPM Data. August 2019 ratings information has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen Audio’s August 2019 survey period covered July 18 – August 14. 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 – News/talk KLBJ-AM is a collective +2.0 via three straight upticks (2.8 – 3.7 – 4.2 – 4.8, 6+) and leaps from ninth to fifth with its best 6+-performance (4.8) in more than six years (5.0, June 2013).
Up three-tenths in both July and August (1.3 – 1.6 – 1.9, 6+), Genuine Austin Radio sports talk KTXX “The Horn” progresses from #18 to #16. Even though iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted KVET-AM nearly doubles (+.3) its 6+ AQH-share in three straight up or flat moves (.4 – .5 – .5 – .7, 6+), “1300 AM The Zone” backslides from #24 to #25.
Notwithstanding a strong August +1.2 to 7.9, its highest 6+-performance since 9.5 in March, University of Texas at Austin-owned news/talk KUT remains in the runner-up slot. KUT’s eight shifts this calendar year include: +1.6 (January); -.6 (February); +.7 (March); -2.0 (April); -.1 (May); -1.6 (June); +.9 (July); and +1.2 (August). June’s 5.8 was its lowest 6+-showing since April 2017 (5.8, as well).
Austin Music Formats – Piling on a +1.1 to July’s increase of three-tenths (2.8 – 3.1 – 4.2, 6+), CRISTA Media contemporary Christian KFMK “Spirit 105.9” zooms into the top ten (#13 to #9), reaching the four-share level (4.2, 6+) for the first time since February’s 4.6. In five successive reports without a loss, alternative KROX “101-X” nets a +1.3 (2.6 – 2.9 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.8 – 3.9, 6+) and enters the top ten (#11 to #10) with its best 6+-showing (3.9) since September 2018’s 4.0. A collective -2.7 in four straight decreases (6.7 – 5.9 – 5.1 – 4.4 – 4.0, 6+), directly following March’s +1.2, regional Mexican KLZT “107.1 La Z” ends the slide with a +.3 to 4.3 (tenth to eighth, 6+). More than doubling (+.8) its 6+ AQH-share in July/August (.7 – .8 – 1.5, 6+), Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KLJA “Amor 107.7” cracks the top twenty with its best 6+-stat (1.5, #20, 6+) since 1.6 in January. Despite being a combined -.6 in July/August (9.3 – 9.2 – 8.7, 6+), adult hits KBPA “103.5 Bob-FM” is #1 the fifth 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+). Dropping from fourth to seventh, Entercom hot AC KAMX “Mix 94.7” is -1.8 in July/August (6.4 – 5.9 – 4.6, 6+), directly following May/June’s combined +1.1 (5.3 – 5.8 – 6.4, 6+). In the market’s three-way country contest, iHeartMedia-owned KASE improves by one-tenth (4.8 – 4.9, 6+) and one ranker (fifth to fourth). “Austin’s #1 For New Country” was a combined -1.0 in June/July (5.8 – 5.4 – 4.8, 6+), immediately after +1.5 in three straight bumps (4.3 – 4.5 – 5.7 – 5.8, 6+). It plummeted by -1.9 in “Holiday” 2018; improved by +1.2 in January; and was -.6 in February. The other two country combatants, however, aren’t as lucky as KASE in August: Genuine Austin Radio’s KOKE-FM “Austin’s Country Alternative” surrenders eight-tenths (1.8, #16 to #17, 6+), while KASE’s sibling, KVET-FM “98.1 The Austin Texas Original,” erodes by -1.2 and fades from the top ten (#7 to #13). For KOKE-FM, it ends four straight sweeps without a loss 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. Meanwhile, KVET-FM is an overall -2.5 in three successive downturns (5.8 – 5.2 – 4.5 – 3.3, 6+), following May’s +.9. “The Austin Texas Original” was +1.2 in January (5.0 – 6.2, 6+) and hadn’t been below a four-share (6+) in more than six years (3.1, February 2013). Adult contemporary KGSR is an overall +.8 in three consecutive positive or neutral trends (1.9 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.7, 6+) and progresses from #15 to #14. Its current 2.7 represents the best 6+-showing for “97.1 Austin City Limits Radio” ever since it flipped from triple A to AC this past March (2019). Even though Entercom’s similarly-formatted KKMJ is a combined -1.4 in July/August, “Majic 95.5 – Better Music for a Better Workday” remains in third-place. Completely erasing July’s +.6 (4.4 – 3.8, -.6, 6+), iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR KPEZ “102.3 The Beat” departs the top ten (#8 to #11). July’s 4.4 was its highest 6+-share in more than two years (4.7, June 2017). Off six-tenths as well in August is University of Texas at Austin triple A KUTX “98.9 The Austin Music Experience” (2.2 – 1.6, #16 to #19, 6+).
Raleigh
Spoken-Word Formats – 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” ends the slide with a half-share increase to 5.2 (ninth to eighth, 6+). Curtis
Media Group news/talk WPTF “News Radio 680” records a 6+ AQH share between 1.0 – 1.9 the 21st time in a row but is off one-tenth in back-to-back sweeps (1.9 – 1.8 – 1.7, flat at #16, 6+).
In five straight down or flat moves, Capitol Broadcasting sports talk WCMC has lost three tenths (2.4 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.1, 6+); “99.9 The Fan” finishes at #15 the fifth time in a row. Co-owned/similarly-formatted model of consistency WDNC “620 The Ticket” has an August 2018 through August 2019 topline of: .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .2 – .2 – .1 – .1 – .2 – .1 (#24 to #26, 6+).
Up eight-tenths in June but down three-tenths in July, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill news/talk WUNC “91.5 North Carolina Public Radio” posts an August +1.0 (7.5 – 8.5, 6+), marching from second to first. WUNC, which was +1.0 in January and -.6 in February, has its best 6+-stat (8.5) in exactly one year (8.8, August 2018).
Raleigh Music Formats – As a result of seven consecutive positive or neutral moves, Radio One gospel WNNL “The Light 103.9 – The Triangle’s Inspiration Station” is a collective +1.5 (3.7 – 3.9 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 4.5 – 4.6 – 5.2, 6+) and jumps from tenth to eighth. This is its strongest 6+-stat since October 2018 (5.2, as well). Following 12 consecutive survey periods at #1, urban AC cluster-mate WFXC “Foxy – Today’s R&B and Classic Soul” segues to #2. Ironically, “Foxy” backslides after picking up two-tenths to 8.4 (6+), thus snapping 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 of its recent (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. When Capitol Broadcasting adult contemporary WRAL gained two-tenths in July, it suspended four successive down or flat sweeps that resulted in a -2.1 (8.6 – 7.7 – 7.7 – 7.5 – 6.5, 6+). “Mix 101.5 – The Variety That Makes You Feel Good,” however, forfeits six-tenths in August (6.7 – 6.1, 6+) and shifts from third to sixth. This (6.1) is the lowest 6+- showing for WRAL since October 2018’s 5.3. Off one-half share in August, iHeartMedia-owned CHR WDCG “G-105 – Raleigh’s #1 Hit Music Station” slips from seventh to tenth. “G-105” was a combined -.9 in March/April (6.0 – 5.4 – 5.1, 6+); +1.1 in May/June (5.1 – 5.5 – 6.2, 6+); and is now -1.1 in July/August (6.2 – 5.6 – 5.1, 6+). Dropping by one-half share as well are Curtis Media Group classic hits-oldies WKIX “KIX 102.9 – Carolina’s Greatest Hits” (3.5 – 3.0, flat at #12, 6+) and Educational Information Corporation’s WCPE “89.7 FM The Classical Station” (2.9 – 2.4, #13 to #14, 6+). After being an overall +1.8 in six straight sweeps without a loss (4.8 – 4.9 – 5.0 – 5.4 – 5.4 – 6.0 – 6.6, 6+), Curtis Media Group adult hits WBBB “96.1 BBB – Your Life/Your Music” drops two-tenths to 6.4 (6+) but remains in fifth-place. It is a similar scenario for co-owned WPLW “Pulse FM,” which forfeits one-tenth to 4.4 (steady at #11, 6+), thus interrupting three successive up or flat trends which netted a +1.3 (3.2 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 4.5, 6+). July’s 4.5 was its best 6+-showing in over two years (4.9, June 2017). As a result of eight down or flat Raleigh reports in succession (3.2 – 2.9 – 2.1 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.3, 6+), Curtis Media Group-owned regional Mexican WYMY has had its 6+ AQH share sliced by roughly 59% (-1.9); “La Ley 101.1” continues at #17.
Indianapolis
Spoken-Word Formats – Eleven of the 13 most recent (6+) fluctuations for Emmis news/talk WIBC “Indy’s Mobile News 93.1” are: -.7 (September 2018); +1.0 (October); +.7 (November); -.9 (December); -.9 (“Holiday” 2018); +.9 (January 2019); +.9 (February); -.8 (March); -1.2 (April); +.9 (June); and +.5 in August (6.0 – 6.5, steady at #5, 6+).
Although unchanged at #16, Emmis’ WFNI “The Fan – Indy’s Sports Center” has lost seven-tenths via three straight drops (2.4 – 2.3 – 1.9 – 1.7, 6+). In six successive sweeps without an increase, iHeartMedia’s WNDE dropped eight-tenths (1.8 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.0 – 1.0, 6+), but “Indy’s Sports Station” ends the slump with a +.1 to 1.1 (flat at #18, 6+). Cumulus Media’s WXNT “CBS Sports AM 1430” repeats July’s .1 (#22 to #21, 6+).
Down seven-tenths in June (4.6 – 3.9, 6+), Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting news/talk WFYI rebounds with a combined +1.4 in July/August (3.9 – 4.9 – 5.3, steady at #8, 6+).
Indianapolis Music Formats – Having regressed by -1.3 in June/July (7.2 – 6.7 – 5.9, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WFBQ “Q-95 Indy’s Classic Rock” answers with an August increase of one-half share to 6.4 (seventh to sixth, 6+). Prior to July’s 5.9, “Q-95” hadn’t been below a six-share (6+) since March 2017’s 5.8. Improving by one-half share in August 2019 as well is University of Indianapolis-owned jazz-classical WICR (.6 – 1.1, #20 to #18, 6+), which passes the one-share level (1.1, 6+) for the first time since March, when it reached 1.2 (6+). On top the eighth consecutive month, Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK “Classic Hits 104.5” follows July’s massive +1.4 with a -1.1 (11.1 – 10.0, 6+). July’s 11.1 is the highest 6+-share in the station’s PPM-history, eclipsing April’s 10.2. Among WJJK’s 2019 (6+) shifts are: +2.9 (January); -.7 (February); -.6 (March); +1.7 (April); +1.4 (July); and -1.1 (August). After spending six straight sweeps at #1, “Classic Hits 104.5” slipped to third in “Holiday” 2018 but returned to #1 in January 2019. Having logged a May – June – July topline of 7.4 – 7.6 – 7.5 (6+), Cumulus Media’s WFMS “95.5 The Country Station” (third to fourth) falters by six-tenths to 6.9, its lowest 6+-stat since 6.1 in “Holiday” 2018. Despite being down one-tenth, Emmis’ similarly-formatted WLHK “Country 97.1 Hank” (7.2 – 7.1, fourth to third, 6+) leapfrogs WFMS. 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+). The day after the June sweep commenced (5/24), WFMS’ CHR sibling WYRG “Energy 93.9” flipped to rock WNDX. In June and July, “93.9-X” responded by nearly tripling (+2.3) its 6+-stat (1.3 – 2.8 – 3.6, 6+, 6+), jumping from #18 (May) to #16 (June) to #12 (July). In August, however, WNDX relinquishes six-tenths to 3.0 (6+) but repeats at #12.
Milwaukee
Spoken-Word Formats – Slipping from third to fourth, Good Karma Brands’ news/talk WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Brewers,
Packers) is an overall -2.3 in three straight setbacks (9.4 – 8.7 – 7.6 – 7.1, 6+). This directly follows April/May’s +3.5 (5.9 – 8.8 – 9.4, 6+). Likewise, iHeartMedia’s WISN “News/Talk 1130” is a collective -1.1 via three decreases in succession (5.7 – 5.3 – 5.0 – 4.6, 6+), vaporizing the six-tenths gained in April/May (5.1 – 5.5 – 5.7, 6+).
Five Milwaukee sports talk outlets combine for a 2.2 (August 6+), down from 2.3 (July, 6+) and 2.4 (June, 6+). After tripling its 6+-stat since April (.3 – .6 – .8 – 9, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WRNW “The Game” drops two-tenths to .7 (flat at #16, 6+). CHR WRNW “Now” became sports talk “The Game” in late-November (2018). July’s .9 was the best 6+-stat on that frequency since 2.8 in December 2018. While flat at .7 (6+) Good Karma Brands’ WKTI “94.5 ESPN” catches WRNW at #16. July’s +.1 ended three straight winless sweeps in which WKTI lost roughly half (-.7) its 6+ audience (1.3 – 1.0 – 1.0 – .6, 6+). A collective -1.0 in five straight dips (1.4 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.0 – .6, – .4, 6+), Entercom’s WSSP “Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” ends the slide with a +.1 to .5 (#21 to #20, 6+). WRNW cluster-mate WOKY “The Big 920” posts a .2 (6+) the eighth time in the last ten sweeps (.2 – .3 – .2 – .2 – .3 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2, flat at #22, 6+). After popping on with a .5 (November 2018, 6+), Good Karma Brands’ WAUK disappeared from print in the next seven ratings periods. It returned in June with a .2; dropped one-tenth to .1 (6+) in July; and repeats that .1 in August (#28 to #26, 6+).
By gaining three-tenths to 3.3 (flat at #13, 6+), University of Wisconsin news/talk WUWM halts five straight negative or neutral moves that resulted in a collective -1.8 (4.8 – 4.8 – 4.4 – 3.9 – 3.3 – 3.0, 6+). After logging five straight negative or neutral moves that led to a loss of one-half share (1.3 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.0 – .9 -.8, 6+), Wisconsin Public Radio news/talk WHAD regains 60% of that shortfall (1.1, +.3, #17 to #15, 6+).
Milwaukee Music Formats – Answering July’s mammoth -1.6 with an August uptick of six-tenths (5.1 – 5.7, 6+), Entercom hot AC WMYX “99.1 The Mix” jumps from eighth to sixth; July’s 5.1 was its lowest 6+-stat since November 2018’s 4.8. The May through August topline for Milwaukee Radio Alliance adult contemporary WLDB “B-93.3” is 5.8 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.8 (seventh to fifth, 6+). Three spikes in succession by iHeartMedia-owned WMIL yield a +2.2 (5.3 – 5.9 – 7.1 – 7.5, 6+) as “FM 106.1 Milwaukee’s Best Country” progresses from fourth to third with its highest 6+-stat since January (7.5, as well). Notwithstanding it surrenders the three-tenths gained in July (9.4 – 9.7 – 9.4, 6+), classic hits-oldies sibling WRIT “95.7 Big FM Milwaukee’s Greatest Hits” is #1 the third 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). Despite posting five reports in a row without a loss for a +1.1 (4.3 – 4.3 – 4.8 – 4.8 – 5.4 – 5.4, 6+), co-owned urban contemporary WKKV “V-100.7 Jams” backslides from a fifth-place tie to seventh. Major (6+) ups/downs continue for Saga Communications’ WKLH “96.5 Milwaukee’s Hometown Rock,” which was -1.1 in four straight negative or flat moves (8.1 – 7.9 – 7.9 – 7.3 – 7.0, 6+); a whopping +1.4 in July; but -.6 in August (8.4 – 7.8, unchanged at #2, 6+).
Nashville
Spoken-Word Formats – Up one-half share via three straight positive or neutral trends (3.1 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.6, 6+), Cumulus Media news/talk WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” advances from #12 to #11. Returning the four-tenths it added in July (1.4 – 1.8 – 1.4, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” remains at #17. July’s 1.8 was its best 6+-stat in nearly four years (2.0, October 2015).
Somewhat mirroring its news/talk cluster-mate WWTN (see above), Cumulus Media-owned sports talk WGFX “104.5 The Zone” (Tennessee Titans) gains a combined one-half share in back-to-back sweeps (2.7 – 2.9 – 3.2, #14 to #12, 6+). Prior to June, the last time WGFX fell below a three-share (6+) was July 2017 (2.7, as well). In four straight down or flat moves Cromwell Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” has lost nearly two-thirds (-1.2) of its 6+ AQH-share (1.9 – 1.1 – .8 – .8 – .7, #21 to #22, 6+).
Erasing July’s one-half share loss (5.6 – 5.1, 6+) with an August +1.1 to 6.2 (6+), Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM “NPR News and Classical Music” climbs from seventh to fourth. The news/talk/classical hybrid outlet was a combined +1.2 in May/June (4.4 – 5.4 – 5.6, 6+).
Nashville Music Formats – In three consecutive negative or neutral sweeps, WCJK “96.3 Jack-FM Playing What We Want” was a collective -1.6 (8.4 – 7.6 – 7.6 – 6.8, 6+); however, the Midwest Communications-owned adult hits outlet roars back with an August +1.2 to 8.0 (third to second, 6+). CHR cluster-mate WNFN “106.7 Nashville’s New Hit Music” (#16 to #15) has logged a 1.9 (6+) in three of the last four sweeps (1.9 – 1.9 – 1.6 – 1.9, 6+) but erupts in August with a +1.0 to 2.9, its best 6+-showing in nearly two years (3.0, October 2017). Despite gaining two-tenths, its format rival – iHeartMedia’s WRVW “107.5 The River” – backslides from sixth to seventh. “The River” has a March through August topline of: 5.3 – 5.9 – 5.9 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.5. Not only is Cumulus Media urban AC WQQK an overall +1.3 in four upticks in succession (4.2 – 4.4 – 4.6 – 4.8 – 5.5, ninth to seventh, 6+), “92-Q” reaches a five-share for the first time since “Holiday” 2018 (5.5, as well). An overall +1.6 in three successive upticks (8.2 – 9.2 – 9.6 – 9.8, 6+), Midwest Communications adult contemporary WJXA “Mix 92.9 – Your Life, Your Music” relinquishes three-tenths to 9.5 (6+) but is #1 the fourth month in a row. Seven recent (6+) WJXA fluctuations include: +1.9 (December 2018); +3.2 (“Holiday” 2018); -3.5 (January 2019); -1.3 (February); -.5 (March); -.6 (April); and +1.0 (May). WJXA’s “Holiday” 2018’s 14.1 is the highest 6+-share for any Nashville outlet since its 14.4 in “Holiday” 2017. Salem Media Group contemporary Christian WFFH “The Fish” is -1.3 in July/August (4.5 – 4.4 – 3.2, #11 to #12, 6+), directly following a collective +1.0 through four straight increases (3.5 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.1 – 4.5, 6+). In three reports in succession without an increase, iHeartMedia urban contemporary WUBT “101.1 The Beat” is -1.2 (6.8 – 6.3 – 5.6 – 5.6, flat at #5, 6+) and has its lowest 6+-share (5.6) since December 2016 (4.9). An impressive +2.7 in seven consecutive sweeps without a loss (3.5 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 5.0 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 6.2, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WSIX “The Big 98 – Nashville’s #1 for New Country” forfeits six-tenths to 5.6 (fourth to fifth, 6+). It reached the six-share level (July 2019, 6.2, 6+) for the first time since April 2017’s 6.1. A combined -1.6 in three straight losses (6.3 – 5.8 – 5.3 – 4.7, 6+), Cumulus Media’s similarly-formatted WKDF pulls the plug with a +.2 to 4.9 (tenth to ninth, 6+). In advance of the aforementioned streak, “103.3 Nash FM” was a collective +2.2 in five straight gains (4.1 – 4.2 – 5.4 – 5.9 – 6.1 – 6.3, 6+). Co-owned/similarly-formatted WSM-FM “95.5 Nash Icon,” which notched a 5.0 (6+) five times in the last six sweeps (5.0 – 5.0 – 5.0 – 5.2 – 5.0 – 5.0, 6+), sputters by three-tenths to 4.7 (eighth to tenth, 6+).
Providence
Spoken-Word Formats – A gain of three-tenths to 3.4 (flat at #7, 6+) by Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM “News Talk 630” halts three
consecutive sweeps without an increase that accounted for a loss of seven-tenths (3.8 – 3.7 – 3.1 – 3.1, 6+). Despite being down or flat the sixth time in a row for a more than 50% reduction (-1.2) in its 6+-AQH share (2.1 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.3 – .9 – .9, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned news/talk WHJJ “Providence’s News, Traffic, and Weather” moves from #17 to a three-way tie at #16. Off four-tenths as a result of three successive declines (.7 – .5 – .4 – .3, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WPRV “AM 790 Talk & Business” repeats at #20.
Bouncing back from July’s half-share loss to 3.1, its lowest 6+-stat since March 2018’s 2.8, Entercom sports talker WVEI notches a +.3 (3.4, flat at #7, 6+).
In four consecutive ratings periods without an increase, iHeartMedia Boston hybrid news – talk WBZ-AM has lost four-tenths (1.3 – 1.2 – 1.0 – 1.0 – .9, 6+); “News Radio 1030” drops from #16 to the three-way scrum at #17.
After gaining six-tenths in July (1.6 – 2.2, 6+), WGBH Educational Foundation Boston news/talk WGBH returns one-tenth to 2.1 (6+) and is unchanged at #9. In four successive sweeps without an increase (2.0 – 2.0 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.4, 6+), The Wheeler School’s news/talk WELH has lost a total of six-tenths and repeats at #11.
Providence Music Formats – Over and above being a collective +1.7 in three straight spikes (7.6 – 8.5 – 8.6 – 9.3, 6+), Hall Broadcasting country WCTK leaps from third to first. This (9.3) is the highest 6+-share for “Cat Country 98.1” in just over one year (10.1, July 2018) and first time at #1 since that same (July 2018) sweep. It succeeds iHeartMedia-owned WHJY “94 HJY Providence’s Home of Rock & Roll,” which had been #1 the past three months. A combined -1.6 in July/August (10.2 – 9.8 – 8.6, 6+), WHJY segues to #2. An April loss of nine-tenths forced WHJY from the top spot after three straight months there. The decline halted four consecutive positive or flat moves that netted a +2.0 (8.5 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 10.5, 6+). Before taking over at #1 in January, WHJY was in the runner-up slot September 2018 through “Holiday” 2018. A loss of six-tenths (9.1 – 8.5, second to third, 6+) sends Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI “Lite Rock 105” to its lowest 6+-share (8.5) in almost four years (7.2, October 2015). Seven recent (6+) shifts for iHeartMedia-owned hot AC WSNE include: -.9 (November 2018); -1.0 (Holiday” 2018); +.5 (March); +.5 (May); -.7 (June); +1.4 (July); and -.5 in August (5.7 – 5.2, flat at #6, 6+). July’s 5.7 was its best 6+-performance in just over two years (June 2017, 5.7, as well). Prior to June’s loss of seven-tenths, “Coast 93.3” was a collective +1.2 in three consecutive improvements (3.8 – 4.3 – 4.5 – 5.0, 6+). In the CHR arena, Townsquare Media CHR WFHN, which had its 6+-stat shrink by two-thirds (-2.8) via six down or flat reports in succession (4.2 – 3.7 – 2.6 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.6 – 1.4, 6+), ends the slide with a +.4 to 1.8. Moreover, “Fun 107 – The South Coast’s #1 Hit Music Station” returns to the top ten (#14 to #10). Immediately in advance of the just-mentioned streak, WFHN more than tripled (+3.0) its 6+-stat as a result of six successive up or flat moves (1.2 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 4.2, 6+). Cumulus Media’s similarly-formatted WPRO-FM “Today’s Hit Music 92 PRO-FM” is down seven-tenths in three straight negative or neutral trends (7.4 – 7.4 – 6.8 – 6.7, 6+) and continues in fifth-place. Up a collective half-share as a result of five successive up or flat Providence moves (1.1 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.6, 6+), iHeartMedia Boston CHR WXKS-FM “Kiss 108” falters by two-tenths to 1.4 (6+) and shifts from #12 to a three-way tie at #11. Also part of that three-way logjam at #11 is Cumulus Media rhythmic CHR WWKX “Hot 106,” which is -1.0 in three losses in succession (2.4 – 2.3 – 1.8 – 1.4, 6+). Disappearing from print in July and August are Red Wolf Broadcasting Spanish tropical WKKB “Latina 100.3,” which posted a 1.2 in June (#16, 6+) and classic hits-oldies sibling WSKP “Good Times … Great Oldies” (.8, #19, June 2019, 6+).
Norfolk
Spoken-Word Formats – After a hiatus of just over three years (July 2016), Max Broadcast Group Holdings outlets are listed again.
The only entry appearing in print under the spoken-word umbrella in this Virginia market is Max Broadcast Group sports talk WVSP “ESPN Radio 94.1,” which has a July/August topline of 1.2 – 1.4 (#16 to #14, 6+); its internet stream, which notched a .1 in July (#19, 6+), disappears in August.
Norfolk Music Formats – Only one station in the 48 PPM-markets registers a (6+) July 2019 – August 2019 increase of at least two full-shares and that honor goes to … WNOR “FM 99 Rocks” (+2.1). In fact, the Saga Communications-owned facility hasn’t had a decrease the last five survey periods and is a stunning +3.0 in that timeframe (5.9 – 6.0 – 6.0 – 6.8 – 6.8 – 8.9, fourth to second, 6+). Moreover, “FM 99 Rocks” reaches the eight-share level (8.9, 6+) for the first time since May 2018’s 8.3 (6+). WNOR is now just two-tenths from the top spot. While Entercom urban AC WVKL is #1 the eighth consecutive month, “Smooth R&B from Yesterday & Today” is a combined -2.3 in July/August (11.4 – 10.0 – 9.1, 6+). Prior to its present 9.1 (August 2019, 6+), WVKL last failed to log double-digits (6+) in January 2014 (9.8). WVKL was a combined -2.4 in March/April (12.9 – 11.6 – 10.5, 6+) and then added a +1.0 in May to 11.5 (6+). “Smooth R&B from Yesterday & Today” had been the market pacesetter 25 successive survey periods before segueing to the runner-up slot in “Holiday” 2018. Its August 2018 15.5 holds the record for highest 6+-performance by any Norfolk station in the PPM-era. In the market’s tight adult contemporary battle, Max Broadcast Group’s WVBW “92.9 The Wave” logs an increase of eight-tenths (3.4 – 4.2, ninth to sixth, 6+), while Entercom’s WWDE “101.3 2WD” is up a combined six-tenths in July/August (4.4 – 4.8 – 5.0, sixth to fifth, 6+). Repeating at #11, iHeartMedia alternative WNOH “Alt 105.3” has nearly tripled (+1.4) its 6+-stat in eight straight survey periods without a loss (.8 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.9 – 2.2 – 2.2, 6+). Eroding by -1.2 (5.0 – 3.8, 6+), Entercom’s WNVZ “Z-104 Norfolk Rhythmic Music” drops from fifth to eighth with its lowest 6+-stat (3.8) since “Holiday” 2018’s 3.6. Although off seven-tenths (3.2 – 2.5, 6+), Max Broadcast Group-owned WVHT “Hot 100” repeats at #10. An overall +1.2 in three consecutive up or flat trends (2.8 – 2.8 – 3.2, 4.0, 6+), Entercom hot AC WPTE “94.9 The Point” falters by six-tenths to 4.0 (eighth to ninth, 6+). July’s 4.0 was the best 6+-showing for “The Point” since September 2017’s 4.4. Down by six-tenths as well in August is Max Broadcast Group’s country WGH-FM “97.3 The Eagle” (4.7 – 4.1, flat at #7, 6+).
Jacksonville
Spoken-Word Formats – Doubling July’s +.5 with an August +1.0 (7.5 – 8.0 – 9.0, 6+), Cox Media Group news/talk WOKV-FM “104.5
Jacksonville’s News, Weather, and Traffic” repeats at #1. July’s increase halted five consecutive down or flat sweeps that accounted for a collective -2.9 (10.4 – 9.7 – 8.8 – 8.6 – 8.6 – 7.5, 6+). Tied for the top spot in May, WOKV-FM had sole possession of first-place in January, February, and April.
By adding three-tenths (.5, #20 to #19, 6+), iHeartMedia sports talk WFXJ “930 The Game – Jacksonville’s Sports Leader” applies the brakes to nine consecutive sweeps without an increase that accounted for a net loss of 75% (-.6) of its 6+-stat (.8 – .7 – .6 – .6 – .5 – .3 – .3 -.3 – .2 – .2, 6+).
Down or flat the fifth consecutive time for a net loss of nine-tenths (3.7 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 2.8, 6+), public news/talk WJCT slips from #12 to #13. Immediately prior to April, “Your Community – Your World” was a cumulative +1.5 in five increases in a row (2.2 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 3.0 – 3.5 – 3.7, 6+).
Jacksonville Music Formats – Separated by nine-tenths of a share in July, the market’s two major adult contemporary outlets are now within six-tenths of each other. More to the point, in five consecutive upticks, Cox Media Group’s WEZI “Easy 102.9” is an overall +2.4 (4.5 – 4.9 – 5.1 – 5.9 – 6.3 – 6.9, 6+) and rockets from seventh to third. A combined +1.1 in January/February, WEZI surrendered roughly half that increase with a March loss of six-tenths. This (6.9) represents the highest 6+-showing for “Easy” in its approximately four-year AC history. The station WEZI is chasing – Renda Broadcasting’s similarly-programmed WEJZ “96.1 Jacksonville’s Official Work Station” – notches a +.3 (7.2 – 7.5, 6+) and inches up from third to second. August’s increase curtails four decreases in a row that resulted in a collective -1.5 (8.7 – 8.3 – 7.6 – 7.5 – 7.2, 6+). “Holiday” 2018’s 16.3 by adult contemporary WEJZ is the highest 6+-mark for any Jacksonville station since “Holiday” 2015 when it notched a 19.5 (6+). Segueing from second to fourth, Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WJGL “96.9 The Eagle” is -2.1 in three straight setbacks (8.6 – 8.1 – 7.3 – 6.5, 6+). After a March-only stay at #1, “The Eagle” shifted to a second-place tie in April; progressed to a first-place tie in May; and had sole possession of first-place in June. WJGL’s April loss of six-tenths interrupted three upticks in succession that resulted in a +1.6 (7.3 – 8.1 – 8.6 – 8.9, 6+). Meanwhile, co-owned urban contemporary WJGL-HD2 drops one-half share (2.1 – 1.6, #15 to #16, 6+). Renda Broadcasting’s WGNE “99.9 Gator Country” is a combined +1.2 in July/August (3.5 – 4.3 – 4.7, 6+) and advances from ninth to eighth. This time last month, iHeartMedia-owned WQIK “99.1 Jacksonville’s Country”; urban contemporary cluster-mate WJBT “93.3 The Beat”; and Cox Media Group CHR WAPE “95.1 Jacksonville’s #1 Hit Music Station” were deadlocked in fourth-place (6.6, 6+). All three are down in August with WQIK taking the biggest hit, plummeting -1.2 to 5.4 (seventh), its lowest 6+-stat since April’s 4.5. Both WAPE and WJBT were up six-tenths in July but they each regress by seven-tenths to 5.9 (6+) and are tied again – this time at #5. Thus, they have identical (6.0 – 6.6 – 5.9, 6+) June – July – August profiles. In advance of the July sweep, WAPE had been an overall -1.3 in three straight down or flat moves (7.3 – 7.2 – 7.0 – 6.0, 6+) with June’s 6.0 its weakest 6+-stat since 5.2 in “Holiday” 2018. Meanwhile, “The Beat” – which was +1.4 in June – had its best showing (6.6, July 2019, 6+) since May 2017’s 7.2.
West Palm Beach
Spoken-Word Formats – It’s another positive report for iHeartMedia-owned WJNO “1290 The Palm Beaches’ News & Talk,” which is an overall +2.0 in six successive sweeps without a loss (2.0 – 2.3 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 3.1 – 3.7 – 4.0, steady at #6, 6+). June marked the first time WJNO reached the three-share level since December 2017’s 3.3. Repeating at #11, Hubbard Broadcasting’s WFTL “News Talk 850” is a cumulative +.9 in three spikes in a row (1.7 – 2.0 – 2.4 – 2.6, 6+). By gaining two-tenths to 2.1 (#14 to #13, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned news/talk WZZR “Real Radio 94.3 – Real Talk For The Palm Beaches” halts three straight down or flat sweeps that accounted for a loss of four-tenths (2.3 – 2.3 – 2.0 – 1.9, 6+). Miami news/talk sibling WIOD “610 News Radio” is up four-tenths in three modest bumps in succession (.6 – .8 – .9 – 1.0, #20 to #19, 6+).
Locked on .3 (6+) in June and July, Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” picks up one-tenth to .4 (#22, 6+). After posting a .1 (6+) in August 2018, iHeartMedia-owned sports talk WBZT “1230 The Zone” has been a “no-show” in the subsequent 13 ratings periods.
Returning the two-tenths it picked up in July (2.9 – 3.1 – 2.9, 6+), Dade County School Board news/talk WLRN remains in tenth-place.
West Palm Beach Music Formats – This market’s first eight August 2019 finishers are either up or flat from July 2019, with each station in the top four gaining a minimum of one-half share (6+). Leading the way in that category is iHeartMedia-owned adult contemporary WOLL “Today’s Kool 105.5,” which roars back from July’s -.8 with an August +1.0 (7.2 – 6.4 – 7.4, third to second, 6+). Whereas this (7.4, August 2019) is the best 6+-showing for “Kool” since July 2016’s 7.5, the 6.4 (6+) in July 2019 was its softest since March (6.4, as well). Meanwhile, Hubbard Broadcasting’s similarly-formatted WEAT-FM “Sunny 107.9” craters by -1.5 (6.6 – 5.1, second to third, 6+). When “Sunny” gained one-tenth in July, it suspended three straight decreases that accounted for an overall -1.7 (8.2 – 7.0 – 6.8 – 6.5, 6+). Prior to its current 5.1 (6+), “Sunny” last fell below a six-share in November 2018 (5.0, 6+). A collective -2.2 in three straight decreases (5.9 – 5.0 – 4.1 – 3.7, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting urban AC WMBX “X-102.3” answers with a +.8 to 4.5 (sixth to fourth, 6+). April’s +.6 took WMBX to 5.9, its highest 6+-share since May 2018’s 6.2. Up six-tenths and advancing from #12 to #11, iHeartMedia Miami CHR WHYI “Y-100” logs a (6+ West Palm Beach) share between 2.0 – 2.6 the fourth time in a row (2.4 – 2.3 – 2.0 – 2.6, 6+). With an August +.5 to 8.3 (6+), Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WRMF pulls the plug on four successive downturns that led to a whopping -3.4 (11.2 – 9.0 – 8.8 – 8.2 – 7.8, 6+). Furthermore, “Variety from the 90s and Now” is #1 the eighth time in a row. July’s 7.8 was its lowest 6+-share – and first time below an eight-share (6+) – since “Holiday” 2016 (7.7). Conversely, WRMF logged a +2.0 in March to 11.2, its highest 6+-share since November 2017 (11.2, as well). Three drops in succession by WAY Media contemporary Christian WAYF led to a -1.0 (2.7 – 2.5 – 1.9 – 1.7, 6+), but “WAY-FM Uplifting – Upbeat – Real” ends the slide with a one-tenth increase to 1.8 (#15 to #14, 6+). Without a loss the past three reports for a net gain of three-tenths (3.7 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 4.0, 6+), iHeartMedia classic rock WKGR “GATER 98.7” (fourth to ninth) sputters by seven-tenths to 3.3, its lowest 6+-stat since February 2016 (3.3, as well). Despite being +1.7 via three straight up or flat trends (2.0 – 3.2 – 3.7 – 3.7, 6+), Spanish contemporary cluster-mate WRLX “Mia 92.1” backslides from sixth to seventh.
Greensboro
Spoken-Word Formats – Adding one-half share to July’s +.6 (3.2 – 3.8 – 4.3, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WPTI “94.5 Your News, Talk,
& Sports Station” carries on at #10. This (4.3) is its best 6+-stat since February’s 4.4.
In four straight sweeps without a loss, Curtis Media Group sports talk WSJS “Triad Sports” nets two-tenths (.8 – .9 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.0, steady at #14, 6+).
On one hand, Wake Forest University news/talk WFDD is #13 the 16th consecutive ratings period, but “88.5 Public Radio for the Piedmont” forfeits two-tenths to 2.3 (6+), thus snapping three straight increases that yielded nine-tenths (1.6 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.5, 6+). University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill news/talk WUNC doubles (+.5) its 6+ AQH-share in four successive up or flat moves (.5 – .8 – .8 – .8 – 1.0, #15 to #14, 6+).
Greensboro Music Formats – The market’s two powerhouse country stations log strong (6+) July 2019 – August 2019 improvements – but – they swap places. After being without an increase the past three reports for an overall loss of one-half share (5.7 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.2, 6+), Entercom’s WPAW “93.1 The Wolf” erases the shortfall with a +.8 to 6.0 (eighth to sixth, 6+). Before dropping two-tenths in March, “The Wolf” had three consecutive shifts of one-half share: -.5 (“Holiday” 2018); +.5 (January 2019); and +.5 (February). With a May through July topline of 5.7 – 5.3 – 5.3 (6+), iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WTQR “Q-104.1 – #1 for New Country” follows with a gain of six-tenths to 5.9 (6+) and continues at #7. In three straight sweeps without an increase, WTQR was a cumulative -1.0 (6.0 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.0, 6+), but erased 70% of that deficit in May with a +.7 to 5.7 (6+). Flat in March, “Q-104.1” cancelled out January’s +.7 with a February -.7 (5.3 – 6.0 – 5.3, 6+). Over the course of the last 16 sweeps (June 2018 through August 2019), WTQR has prevailed over WPAW ten times (June 2018, July, August, September, October, November, “Holiday” 2018, January 2019, May, and July); WPAW has come out on top five times (December 2018, February 2019, March, April, and August; and the two were tied in June 2019 (5.3, 6+). Five straight positive spikes by iHeartMedia-owned rocker WVBZ have netted +2.3 (2.5 – 3.2 – 3.7 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.8, steady at #9, 6+). In June, “105.7 – Man Up” reached the four-share level (4.1, 6+) for the first time since November 2018’s 4.0. This marks the third time this calendar year (March, June, and now in August) that Entercom adult hits WSMW “98.7 Simon Says We Play Everything” is #1 (8.8 – 9.5, +.7, second to first, 6+). Its eight (6+) fluctuations in 2019 are: +.9 (January); -.6 (February); +.9 (March); -1.6 (April); +1.1 (May); +.5 (June); -1.0 (July); and +.7 (August). Prior to its March stay at #1, WSMW last reached #1 in August 2016 when it logged a 10.5 (6+). Occupying the top spot the other five months in 2019 is co-owned urban AC WQMG “97.1 QMG The Best R&B and Old School,” which slips to second (9.5 – 9.3, -.2, 6+). April’s increase of six-tenths curtailed five straight declines that resulted in a -2.3 (11.4 – 10.8 – 10.3 – 9.9 – 9.6 – 9.1, 6+). WQMG’s consecutive streak of reaching double-digits (6+) was snapped at 26 in January; it has been within 9.1 – 9.9 (6+) range ever since. Even though iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMAG craters by -1.5 to 6.9 (6+), “The Best Variety of the ‘80s, ‘90s, and Today” remains in third-place. A combined +.5 in June/July (7.9 – 8.1 – 8.4, 6+) WMAG has its lowest 6+-stat (6.9) in exactly one year (6.8, 6+, August 2018. Off six-tenths (3.5 – 2.9, #11 to #12, 6+), co-owned CHR WMKS “100.3 Kiss FM – All The Hits” slips below a three-share (2.9, 6+) for the first time since “Holiday” 2018’s 2.8.
Memphis
Spoken-Word Formats – Three straight jumps by iHeartMedia news/talk WREC “600 AM – Memphis’ News, Traffic, & Weather” (steady at #8) have yielded seven-tenths (4.1 – 4.2 – 4.5 – 4.8, 6+).
Albeit unchanged at #13, Entercom sports talk WMFS “ESPN Sports Radio” is -1.7 in seven consecutive down or flat trends (4.0 – 4.0 – 3.9 – 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.0 – 2.3, 6+) and has its lowest 6+-stat since July 2018 (2.3, as well). Co-owned WMC-AM “ESPN 790” is without an increase the 14th straight time (including twelve consecutive .1 showings) for a collective loss of three-tenths (.4 – .4 – .2 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 -.1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1, #18 to #21, 6+).
Memphis Music Formats – This Tennessee market’s (6+) adult contemporary share improved by two-tenths in June; was -1.1 in July; and balloons by +1.3 in August. Precisely obliterating July’s -.8 with a +.8 (6.6 – 5.8 – 6.6, 6+), Entercom’s WRVR “104.5 The River” progresses from fifth to fourth. In advance of June’s +.1, “The River” was an overall -2.4 in three straight declines (8.9 – 7.8 – 7.7 – 6.5, 6+). While “Holiday” 2018’s 11.3 is its strongest 6+-performance since “Holiday” 2017’s 12.9 (#6), July’s (5.8) was its lowest since May 2017’s 5.7. Nine recent (6+) WRVR fluctuations include: +2.4 (October 2018); -1.6 (December); +2.0 (“Holiday” 2018); -3.1 (January 2019); +.7 (February); -1.1 (March); -1.2 (May); -.8 (July); and +.8 (August). While unchanged at #16, its adult contemporary rival – Cumulus Media’s WKIM “98.9 The Bridge” – picks up one-half share in August and is in an alternating down/up pattern: 1.1 – .9 – 1.0 – .7 – 1.2 (April through August, 6+). July’s .7, was its lowest 6+-stat since transitioning from urban-rhythmic oldies to AC in late-2017. WKIM surrendered nearly half (-.7) its 6+ AQH-share in April/May (1.6 – 1.1 – .9, 6+). “The Bridge” reached the five-share level (6+) in “Holiday” 2018, but was a combined -4.0 in January/February (5.1 – 1.3 – 1.1, 6+). Down or flat the past four reports for a collective -1.2 (4.6 – 4.5 – 3.7 – 3.4 – 3.4, 6+), cluster-mate WGKX “Kix 106 – Today’s Best Country” hangs out a +.7 to 4.1 and enters the top ten (#11 to #9). Despite returning the three-tenths it picked up in July (9.8 – 10.1 – 9.8, 6+), iHeartMedia urban AC KJMS “V-101” is #1 the tenth time in a row. July’s increase curtailed four straight down or flat trends that accounted for a -1.8 (11.6 – 11.4 – 10.4 – 10.4 – 9.8, 6+). Prior to June’s loss of six-tenths to 9.8 (6+), KJMS reached double-digits (6+) in each of the previous 14 ratings periods. “Holiday” 2018’s 12.8 is the highest 6+-share since December 2012’s 13.5 for “V-101,” which was +2.3 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (10.5 – 11.5 – 12.8, 6+). North Mississippi Media Group’s WEBL “Country Legends 95.3 The Rebel” (1.2, 6+) and classic hits-oldies WOWW “Guess FM – Memphis’ Greatest Hits” (.6, 6+) pop on at #16 and #19, respectively. Following three straight bumps for a +1.2 (3.3 – 4.0 – 4.1 – 4.5, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WXMX “98.1 The Max – Maximum Rock” surrenders all but two-tenths of that increase (3.5, -1.0, 6+) and exits the top ten (#8 to #11) with its lowest 6+-stat (3.5) since December 2018’s 3.0. July’s increase of two-tenths to 3.4 (6+) by iHeartMedia-owned WDIA halted five successive downturns that accounted for a -2.1 (5.3 – 4.9 – 4.8 – 3.8 – 3.5 – 3.2, 6+). In August though, “AM 1070 – The Heart & Soul of Memphis” falters by eight-tenths (2.6, #11 to #12, 6+). Its CHR sibling, KWNW “101.9 Kiss FM,” nearly doubled (+1.2) its 6+ AQH in June/July (1.3 – 1.7 – 2.5, 6+) with July’s 2.5 its best-ever 6+-stat in the PPM-era. “Kiss” relinquishes seven-tenths in August to 1.8 (6+) but remains at #14. Regressing by seven-tenths as well in August is Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO “103.5 The Best Mix of R&B,” which is a collective -.2.7 via four successive setbacks (9.1 – 8.7 – 7.5 – 7.1 – 6.4, third to fifth, 6+). The last time WRBO fell below a seven-share (6+) was exactly four years ago (August 2015, 6.9, 6+).
Hartford
Spoken-Word Formats – While it repeats at #7, Entercom news/talk WTIC-AM “News
Talk 1080” follows July’s -1.1 with an August loss of one-tenth to 6.2, its lowest 6+-stat since February’s 5.9. Down one-half share in July, Red Wolf Broadcasting news/talk WDRC-AM “AM 1360 The Talk of Connecticut” is up one-tenth (.5 – .6, 6+) and gains one ranker (#15 to #14). After being a “no-show” in June 2018, iHeartMedia’s WPOP “News Radio 1410” has logged a .1 (6+) in each of the subsequent 15 survey periods (#18 to #16, 6+).
In four straight sweeps without an increase, iHeartMedia sports talk WUCS “97.9 ESPN Hartford” has lost three-tenths (1.8 – 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.5, unchanged at #12, 6+).
In back-to-back sweeps, Connecticut Public Broadcasting Network news/talk WNPR “Connecticut’s Public Media Source for News & Ideas” improves by one-tenth (4.2 – 4.3 – 4.4, steady in ninth place, 6+). July’s increase curtailed three straight drops that accounted for a collective -1.1 (5.3 – 4.7 – 4.4 – 4.2, 6+). Notwithstanding that its 6+ AQH share has been sliced exactly in half (-.8) via three drops in succession (1.6 – 1.2 – 1.0 – .8, 6+), University of Massachusetts-owned WFCR “New England Public Radio” advances from #14 to #13.
Hartford Music Formats – A collective -1.5 in six straight down or flat trends (4.6 – 4.5 – 4.5 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 3.4 – 3.1, 6+), Red Wolf Broadcasting alternative WMRQ “Radio 104.1” applies the brakes with a +1.0 to 4.1 and continues in tenth-place. Co-owned Spanish tropical WMRQ-HD2, which was without an increase the past survey periods and -1.0 in that stretch (2.6 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 1.6, 6+), improves by six-tenths to 2.2 (flat at #11, 6+). Prior to July, the last time WMRQ-HD2 fell below a two-share (6+) was May 2018 (1.9). A combined -.4 in June/July (6.4 – 6.3 – 6.0, 6+), classic rock cluster-mate WDRC-FM (eighth to fourth) erupts with a +.9 to 6.9, the highest 6+-stat for “102.9 The Whale” since it flipped to classic rock in January 2015. The station’s previous best was in March 2014 (7.0, 6+), when WDRC-FM was classic hits-oldies. By gaining one-tenth to 9.5 (6+), Entercom adult contemporary WRCH ends a June/July slide that accounted for a -1.4 (10.8 – 10.4 – 9.4, 6+). Moreover, “Lite 100.5” is #1 the 38th consecutive time. Nine of its recent (6+) shifts include: -.8 (November 2018); +1.8 (December); -6.9 (January); +1.0 (February; -1.0 (March); -1.3 (April); +1.0 (May); and -1.0 (July). The +5.6 in “Holiday” 2018 was to 18.0, the strongest 6+-showing for any Hartford station since WRCH recorded an 18.3 in “Holiday” 2017). Prior to slipping to 9.8 in April, “Lite” was in double-digits (6+) in 30 of the previous 32 sweeps. Following three straight reports without a loss that netted +1.9 (5.3 – 5.7 – 7.2 – 7.2, 6+), iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WHCN “105.9 The River” spirals by -1.1 to 6.1 (6+) and drifts from third to eighth. July’s 7.2 was its best 6+-showing since May 2018’s 7.7. On the heels of July’s +1.2 to 7.9, its highest 6+-share since August 2017’s 8.3, co-owned WWYZ surrenders more than half that bounty (7.2, -.7, 6+) but repeats in the runner-up slot. In advance of July’s increase, “Country 92.5” was an overall -1.0 in five consecutive negative or neutral sweeps (7.7 – 7.0 – 6.9 – 6.9 – 6.8 – 6.7, 6+).
Thursday, April 25, 2019
Hubbard Radio’s All-News WTOP, Washington Takes 2018 Revenue Crown. The 2019 edition of the annual BIA Advisory Services Investing in Radio Market Report is released and accompanying that is the ranking of radio’s top revenue-earning stations from 2018. Once again, Hubbard Radio’s all-news WTOP, Washington was #1, earning $69 million in ad revenue. As seen in the graphic above, iHeartMedia music-formatted stations in Los Angeles and New York take the next four slots. But Entercom’s all-newsers in New York and Chicago – along with sports talk WFAN, New York – show their earning power consistency with return appearances at the same spots in the top 10. One news/talk station – iHeartMedia’s KFI, Los Angeles – makes the list in the #10 spot as it did last year. BIA notes that over-the-air advertising remained relatively flat at $13.3 billion (down 1.6% from $13.5 billion in 2017). It was digital advertising platforms at local radio stations that saw revenue growth across the industry. The report indicates digital income rose 8.1% to $923 million. Putting over-the-air advertising together with digital revenue gave radio a 2018 revenue figure of $14.2 billion and, BIA says, “positioned radio as the fifth most significant local advertising platform, behind direct mail, mobile, online/digital, and local television.” BIA Advisory Services SVP and chief economist Mark Fratrik states, “Although local radio stations are still important players in their markets and are managing to maintain their position in the top five advertising platforms, we do expect the OTA advertising revenue of U.S. radio stations to decrease this year by 1% to 2% and through the next few years.” He adds that combined radio revenues will remain relatively flat for at least the next five years, while digital platforms will hit $1 billion by 2020. See more about the report here.
PPM Analysis: Public Radio News/Talk. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his analysis of the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s March 2019 PPM survey, today zeroing in on public radio news/talk. A slight dip in weekly 6+ AQH share affects the format as 53% of stations go down and just 38% see a ratings increase from the February 2019 to the March 2019 survey. The same situation applies to the year-over-year comparison – 53% of stations saw their 6+ number decrease from the March 2018 survey. There were four public radio news/talk stations that ranked #1 in their respective markets in March: KQED, San Francisco; KUOW, Seattle; KPBS, San Diego; and KUT, Austin. See Mike Kinosian’s entire report here.
iHeartMedia Q1 Radio Biz Revenue Up 2.9%. In a 10-Q filing with the Securities Exchange
Commission, iHeartMedia releases financial data from the first quarter of 2019 that indicates the company’s radio and streaming revenue was $766 million, up almost 3% compared to the same period in 2018. The company as a whole reports first quarter revenue of $1.38 billion, an increase of slightly less than 1% compared to the first quarter of 2018. Consolidated operating income dropped from $60.9 million in Q1 2018 to $28.3 million this year due to impairment charges of $91.4 million.
SiriusXM First Quarter Pro Forma Revenue Up 10%. The acquisition of Pandora by
SiriusXM adds a little wrinkle to the company’s 2019 first quarter financial report. The company reports total revenue of $1.7 billion, an increase of 27% over the same period in 2018, that was driven by bringing Pandora into the fold. On a pro forma basis, revenue increased 10%, hitting $1.9 billion in the first quarter. But the Pandora acquisition impacted the company’s bottom line as net income was $162 million in Q1 of 2019, down from $289 million during the same period a year ago. During the quarter, SiriusXM added 131,000 net new self-pay subscribers, bringing its total above the 29 million mark.
TALKERS News Notes. Another major national award for Westwood One News comes on
the heels of its recent National Headliner honor from the Press Club of Atlantic City. Now, the Society of Professional Journalists is bestowing its Sigma Delta Chi award upon Westwood One News for “Radio Breaking News Reporting” for the network’s coverage of the Parkland Florida School shooting and aftermath in February of 2018. The award recognizes “resourceful and complete coverage of a major breaking news event, emphasizing both deadline reporting and continuing coverage as the story develops over succeeding days.” Last year, Westwood One News won the honor for its coverage of the 2017 Las Vegas shooting…..Former Baltimore Ravens linebacker Jarret Johnson is joining the WBAL-AM and WIYY-FM-based Ravens Radio Network as color analyst alongside play-by-play voice Gerry Sandusky for this season. Johnson worked on game broadcasts during the past two seasons and earns the promotion to the booth. Cary Pahigian manages the Hearst radio stations and says, “Jarret’s NFL experience, unique insight, and enthusiasm is a major component of our superb Ravens 
broadcast team.”…..Bay Area public media corporation KQED announces that DeLinda Mrowka is promoted to the newly created position of chief audience officer. In this executive role, Mrowka is “responsible for extending brand, deepening audience engagement and growth, and strengthening the membership and corporate sponsorship programs for one of the largest stations in public media.” Mrowka started her KQED career in 2013 as the station’s executive director of marketing and communications before being promoted to vice president of corporate sponsorship in 2015. In 2017 she was again promoted to vice president of marketing, with broad responsibilities overseeing the audience development, marketing, digital fundraising and corporate sponsorship teams.
PodcastOne Issues Request to Luminary. The subscription podcast start-up Luminary is facing the issue of a number of content creators requesting their shows be removed from its
service for various reasons. PodcastOne is one of those companies. It made the move when it became aware that Luminary was carrying PodcastOne’s podcasts without permission. PodcastOne executive chairman Norm Pattiz says, “Since Luminary’s focus has been promoted solely as a paid subscription model, we were surprised to see them also use the free model which they have spoken negatively about and compete against. If they want to reach our audience to promote their site, then they should do the ‘unthinkable’ and advertise in our podcasts as hundreds of other advertisers do.”
WPG, Atlantic City’s Harry Hurley to Receive Inaugural Broadcaster of the Year Award from NJBA. Atlantic City morning drive personality Harry Hurley – heard daily on
Townsquare Media’s news/talk WPGG-AM – is being honored by the New Jersey Broadcasters Association at its 71st Conference and Gala this summer with the first-ever “Broadcaster of the Year” award. NJBA president and CEO Paul S. Rotella, Esq. says Hurley meets all of the criteria for this award “with a high degree of professionalism and a passionate dedication to his craft and the NJBA is very proud of our inaugural ‘Broadcaster of the Year’ recipient!”
Mueller Report Aftermath/Impeachment Talk, Trump vs Subpoenas, 2020 Presidential Politics/Biden Enters Race, Financial Markets Rally, Southern Border Crisis, Sri Lanka Bombings Aftermath, Putin-Kim Meeting, ‘Jeopardy!’ Record Breaker, Avengers: Endgame Film, NBA Playoffs, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (4/24). The response to the release of the redacted version of the Mueller Report and Democrats’ debate over impeachment possibilities; President Trump’s rejection of subpoenas from the U.S. House; the Democrats vying to challenge Trump in 2020, including Joe Biden’s entry into the race; U.S. financial markets hit records in latest rally; the state of the migrant influx at the U.S.-Mexico border; ISIS claims responsibility for Sri Lanka bombings; Russia’s Vladimir Putin meets with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un; the record-breaking “Jeopardy!” streak by James Holzhauer; the new Marvel Comics film Avengers: Endgame; the NBA playoffs; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
TALKERS CONVENTION SPOTLIGHT: Panel Discussion to Address the Challenges
Facing Talk Radio by Heightened Political Correctness. One of the many 
highlights planned for the forthcoming Talkers 2019: Telling the Story on Friday, June 7 in New York City will be an extremely timely and pertinent panel discussion focusing on the challenges being faced by talk radio during the current era of heightened political correctness. Titled “Talk Radio in the Era of ‘Watch What You Say,’” the session will feature panelists Michael Berry, host, “The Michael Berry Show”; Grace Blazer,
national brand coordinator, news/talk/sports programming and director of AM 
programming Miami/Fort Lauderdale, iHeart Media; Brett Winterble, host KFMB-AM, San Diego; Larry Young, host, WOLB-AM, Baltimore; and Dan Yorke, host WPRO-AM, Providence. The session will be moderated by Bill Hess, VP of news/talk, Cumulus Media and program director, WMAL, Washington, DC. Talk radio depends on the free-wheeling exchange of ideas, tolerance for controversy, and, most important, a healthy understanding of and respect for the First Amendment in order to operate effectively. These tenets are clearly
under assault in the age of advertiser boycotts, righteous indignation and widespread hypocrisy. This session will earnestly attempt to identify the issues at play and offer solutions to overcome the challenges and obstacles they present. Don’t miss this session! The TALKERS convention is rapidly heading toward being an early sellout. To see the entire up-to-the-minute agenda and registration/hotel information, please click here.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Phoenix classic hits outlet KOOL-FM adds market radio personality Dee Garcia to its morning drive “The Niko Show” with host Nicholaus “Niko” Petrou. She joins the Entercom station after having worked in the Valley at such stations as hot AC KMVA-FM and
hip hop KKFR. She says of her new gig, “I am honored to join Niko on ‘The Niko Show’ on KOOL. Niko and [producer Abe] are positive, fun, and hardworking. They are exactly the kind of people that you want to share your mornings with.”…..Alpha Media’s hot AC KEEZ, Mankato, Minnesota “Mix 99.1” names Zannie Kaye program director and morning drive personality. Cluster operations manager Jeff Spence says, “We are more than excited to add Zannie Kaye to our Alpha Mankato team as our new host for the ‘Mix 99.1’ morning show and PD duties. Zannie has a lot of experience and has had a terrific career in lots of different markets, including Minneapolis. His energy is contagious and his warm and funny nature will win fans over 
immediately.”…..SummitMedia appoints sales pro Larry Jennings general sales manager for its Birmingham, Alabama stations that include: urban contemporary WBHK “98.7 KISS FM,” hip hop WBHJ “95.7 JAMZ,” and Gospel WAGG-AM “HEAVEN 610.” SummitMedia market president John Walker says, “Larry is exactly the professional we were looking for to lead our outstanding team. He has a proven track record of team building, talent development, client relations, community involvement, and revenue performance.”…..Beasley Media Group’s Philadelphia rock station WMMR-FM signs morning team “Preston and Steve” – Preston Elliot and Steve Morrison – to a new, multiyear contract extension. The duo joined WMMR in May of 2005 and Beasley says the show has “maintained the top-rated morning show position in Philadelphia” since it launched. The company says the show has “led the way in embracing innovative multi-platform initiatives, including creating daily, full-show and highlight episode podcasts, inventing their own ringtone service, producing daily/weekly video programs, and cultivating a formidable social media audience.” Pictured below (from l-r) are: agent Glenn Goldstein, BBGI president Bruce Beasley, Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley, Elliot, Morrison, Beasley Philly market manager Joe Bell, Beasley EVP of strategy and innovation Buzz Knight, and Beasley rock format brand manager Bill Weston. Photo: BP Miller/Chorus Photography
Tuesday, October 24, 2017
FCC Votes to Eliminate Main Studio Rule on Party Line. The Democrats on the Federal Communications Commission are not happy about it but broadcasters are cheering the Commission’s 3-2 vote today (10/24) that eliminated the broadcast main studio rule. The Order retains the requirement that stations maintain a local or toll-free telephone number to ensure 
consumers have ready access to their local stations. The 80-year-old rule was designed to “facilitate input from community members and the station’s participation in community activities.” But, Republicans argued that the rule was outdated and an unnecessary burden. They argue that the repeal of the rule should “produce substantial cost-saving benefits for broadcasters that can be directed toward such things as programming, equipment upgrades, newsgathering, and other services that benefit consumers. It will also make it easier for broadcasters to prevent stations in small towns from going dark and to launch new stations in rural areas.”
MacGunnigle Named APD at WPRO-AM, Providence. At the Providence Cumulus Media cluster, staffer Doug MacGunnigle is promoted to assistant program director for “NewsTalk 99.7 FM and AM 630” (WPRO-AM/WEAN-FM) and sister business talk station WPRV. Previously,
MacGunnigle had been serving as producer and digital content director. MacGunnigle has produced talk shows at WPRO for Steve Kass, Ron St. Pierre, Arlene Violet, and Dan Yorke. MacGunnigle started his career at WPRO in 2002. After stints at other media outlets in the area, he returned to WPRO in May 2015 and has served as producer of the Matt Allen show. WPRO and WPRV program director Neil Larrimore says, “Doug has been an integral part of WPRO-AM and WPRV-AM for many years and has served as a backbone through a particularly tough period of change over the last 24 months. It’s the perfect time to start him on the next step of his career. I’m proud to name him as assistant program director.”
Industry Luminaries to Induct National Radio Hall of Famers. When this year’s inductees are enshrined in the National Radio Hall of Fame on November 2, they’ll be presented by leaders in the industry. The 29th Annual National Radio Hall of Fame Induction ceremony takes place at the 
Museum of Broadcast Communications in Chicago (it will also be broadcast commercial free via TuneIn). This year, Entercom president and CEO David Field will induct his father, Entercom founder Joseph Field; on-air legend Scott Shannon will induct Premiere Networks superstar Sean Hannity; iHeartCountry chief Rod Phillips will induct Premiere’s country morning star Bobby Bones; Cumulus Media VP of classic rock Scott Jameson will induct KQRS, Minneapolis morning icon Tom Barnard; Chicago media star Bob Sirott will induct pioneering disc jockey John Records Landecker; iHeartMedia West president Greg Ashlock will induct KFI, Los Angeles morning personality Bill Handel; and St. Louis talk host Ryan Wrecker will accept induction for the late Bob Sievers. National Radio Hall of Fame chairman Kraig T. Kitchin says, “We’re pleased to have such talented and accomplished presenters joining us on this special night and happy that those who can’t attend won’t miss a beat thanks to TuneIn.”
TALKERS News Notes. The new ESPN2 television show “Barstool Van Talk” – from Barstool Sports – has been canceled after its first airing, but not because of the show itself. The TV program was based on the podcast “Pardon My Take” starring Barstool Sports’ Dan “Big Cat” Katz and PFT Commenter. But the connection to Barstool Sports – known for misogynistic humor – was too much for ESPN president John Skipper, who stated in a press release, “Effective immediately, I am cancelling ‘Barstool Van Talk.’ While we had approval on the content of the show, I erred in assuming we could distance our efforts from the Barstool site and its
content.”…..Pictured at right is Salem Radio Network v.p./News & Talk Programming Tom Tradup (center) on the set of the film, God’s Not Dead 3 in Little Rock, Arkansas. He’s standing with actor and producer David A.R. White (left) and John Corbett (right) best known as co-star of My Big Fat Greek Wedding…..A live radio broadcast of Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Black Cat,” – a tale of murder and supernatural revenge – is being produced for Husson University’s WHSN-FM, Bangor, Maine. It will be performed live from the Gracie Theatre on Thursday, October 26 at 7:30 pm. The program is billed as “Tales of Mystery and Imagination” and features a cast 
of Husson University students and local residents and it’s free and open to the public…..At left is famed director Rob Reiner (left) sitting with ABC News chief White House correspondent Jonathan Karl (right) and ABC News political director Rick Klein (center) recording their “Powerhouse Politics” podcast. The program was video-streamed live as Reiner joined the program to talk about his latest film, the historically themed LBJ…..iHeartMedia announces the addition of “The Fatherly Podcast” to the iHeartRadio digital platform. The program is hosted by veteran journalist, children’s book author, and father of two, Joshua David Stein and is a weekly show about raising children and the lives of men who take on that responsibility. Each episode is built around a wide-ranging interview with a notable father. Guests include Emmy Award-winner Sterling K. Brown, documentary filmmaker Ken Burns, and NFL Hall of Famer Michael Strahan.
Trump Tax Plan, North Korea Nuclear Threats, Sessions Announces MS-13 Efforts, Niger Ambush Investigation, Uranium One Probe, Sexual Harassment/O’Reilly-Weinstein Cases, California Wildfires, Xi Jinping Cements Power, World Series, and NFL Ratings, Protests, and Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (10/23). The Trump Administration’s plan for tax reform; North Korea’s stockpiling of weapons and talk of nuclear war; Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ announcement that the DOJ is using more legal weapons to prosecute MS-13 gang members; the investigation into what when wrong at the Niger ambush of U.S. forces; allegations that the Obama Administration’s deal with Russian firm Uranium One benefitted the Clinton Foundation; sexual harassment in the workplace and the high-profile Harvey Weinstein and Bill O’Reilly cases; the destruction from Northern California’s wildfires and the struggle to contain them; “Xi Jinping Thought” is enshrined into China’s communist constitution, ensuring he’ll rule as long as he’s healthy; the Dodgers-Astros World Series; and National Football League ratings, anthem protests and action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Programming pro Bobby Novosad is promoted to program director for Cumulus Media’s country KXKC-FM, Lafayette, Louisiana “NASH FM 99.1.” Novosad continues his duties as brand manager and morning host at sister CHR KSMB. Cumulus Media Lafayette vice president and market manager Scott Chiasson says, “I am very excited to promote Bobby to program director of KXKC ‘NASH FM 99.1.’ Bobby has been a generational staple in the Lafayette metro area and is a fantastic radio guy. His deep experience and understanding of the way a winning station should sound is already having an impact. This is great for Bobby, Cumulus, our loyal listeners and the community we serve.”…..Thirty-one year radio pro Darrel Eason is appointed to the program director position at Salem Media Group’s urban Gospel KXFN/K236CS, St. Louis “Praise 95.1.” Eason is also hosting “The Morning Praise” from 6:00 am to 10:00 am. Eason was previously the programmer at iHeartMedia’s crosstown KATZ-AM “Hallelujah 1600.”…..Former WGNA, Albany personality Marissa Lanchak announces via Facebook that she’s the new night jock at Beasley Media’s country WKLB, Boston. She wrote, “It’s taken a lot of bumps in the last couple of years to get to this spot. But I’m proud to say that I’ve accepted the night show position at Country 102.5 Boston’s Hottest Country!”…..Beasley Media Group’s adult hits WBEN-FM, Philadelphia announces Twister Sister lead singer Dee Snider will be the guest host of “95.7 BEN FM’s Halloween Hair Ball” on Saturday, October 28. Snider will play the top 50 greatest hair band hits of the 80s as chosen by the 95.7 BEN FM listeners – all commercial free! Station program director Chuck Damico comments, “We came up with the idea of letting listeners choose their favorite scary, hairy hits of the 80s and running them back countdown style for people’s Halloween parties. There’s only one perfect host that makes sense for that – Dee Snider! He’s an 80s rocker, a radio pro and Philly loves him! We’re thrilled to have Dee party with ‘95.7 BEN FM’ for the Halloween weekend.”
Luke Bryan Chats with Shawn and Elaina. It was a big day for country stars in person at Cumulus Media’s NASH Campus in Nashville as Luke Bryan, Kenny Chesney, and Chris Lane all stopped by to chat on the “NASH Nights Live” program. Pictured above is Bryan (left) with show co-stars Elaina Smith (center) and Shawn Parr (right).
CBS’ ‘We Can Survive’ Concert Rocks Hollywood Bowl. Pictured above is pop star Kesha performing onstage at the Hollywood Bowl at CBS RADIO’s We Can Survive 2017 benefit concert on Saturday (10/21). Other performers included: Alessia Cara, Harry Styles, Khalid, Lorde, Macklemore, P!nk, Sam Hunt, and Sam Smith, plus a surprise performance by Niall Horan. The show was hosted in support of breast cancer awareness and benefits the Young Survival Coalition, the premier organization dedicated to the critical issues unique to young women who are diagnosed with breast cancer. Photo: Kevin Winter/Getty Images for CBS RADIO.
Friday, April 22, 2016
WPRO, Providence Names Dan Yorke PM Drive Host. Three months after the death of colorful afternoon talk show host Buddy Cianci, Cumulus Media named Dan Yorke Cianci’s replacement in
afternoon drive. This is familiar territory for Yorke, who served as PM drive personality for years prior to Cianci’s joining the station. Yorke has been the midday host and his move bumps temporary PM drive host Tara Granahan to the evening daypart – 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Current evening host and longtime station producer Matt Allen is upped to the midday host role. The other hosts at the station remain in their places – Gene Vallicente in morning drive and John DePetro in the late morning roles.
Hubbard’s ‘myTalk 107.1’ Dedicates Programming to Passing of Prince. The passing of music legend
Prince on Thursday (4/21) at the age of 57 has stunned fans and the music community alike, and tributes are taking place on many music stations. Special programs are being offered by radio networks, as well. But at Hubbard Radio’s Minneapolis female-targeted talk outlet KTMY “myTalk 107.1,” the station went all-Prince upon the news of his death. Hubbard Radio VP and market manager Dan Seeman tells TALKERS, “‘myTalk covered the news, but 
more importantly, it covered our listeners’ reactions to the news. It was a very emotional day.” The station used digital billboard technology to quickly react and show its listeners that it was talking about the story “now.” At left, you can see the billboard perched atop the city’s famed Mayo Clinic yesterday. Additionally, the station was very quick to put insightful and locally flavored Prince-related content up on its website. Check that out here.
Noam Laden Appointed WABC, New York News Director. New York news/talk 77 WABC announces the appointment of Noam Laden as the station’s news director. Laden has been with WABC for the past seven years, most recently hosting the early morning
“News Hour with Noam Laden,” and writing and anchoring the station’s news from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon. Now, Laden is tapped to lead the news department as news director. In a memo to staff, program director Craig Schwalb says Laden will help him tackle the news operation’s priorities, including: digital news functions, adding news content to the station’s website; weekend news enhancements; and more. Schwalb says, “This is a fantastic step for our team and it is all about making WABC even stronger in news content and coverage.”
The Presidential Race/New York Primary Top Talk Story for Week of April 18-22. Not surprisingly, the activities of the candidates for president and this week’s important New York primary election dominated the discussion on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was President Obama’s trip to Saudi Arabia. Coming in at #3 was Russia’s increased military activity and following at #4 was the proposed change replacing Andrew Jackson with abolitionist Harriet Tubman on the $20 bill. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. View this week’s entire chart here.
NBC Sports Radio Unveils Sunday Night Show with Pabst and Perloff. Sports media pros Paul Pabst and Andrew Perloff are both producers and personalities on DirecTV’s Dan Patrick show – Pabst for the past 
12 years and Perloff for nine. Beginning this Sunday night, they’ll debut “The Leisuremen: Pabst & Perloff,” from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm ET. NBC Sports Radio says the show “will touch on a wide range of
topics that go wildly beyond sports – from food, drink, cars, travel, and money to how to properly wear plaid pants.” Pabst has worked at CBS Sports, CBS Radio News, ESPN, and SiriusXM. He’s also written for Sports Illustrated and ESPN Magazine. Perloff has served as a writer, editor, and producer for Sports Illustrated, FOXSports.com, NFL, MLB.com, and the YES Network.
Odds & Sods. In consideration for the “hardest working man in talk radio” title is WHO, Des Moines-based
personality Simon Conway. Today (4/22), Conway is hosting his morning show on WMT, Cedar Rapids; his afternoon show on WHO; then will sit in for the Compass Media Networks-syndicated Joe Pags show…..Chris Hill, host of the “Motley Fool Money” radio show, checks in to tell TALKERS that his show is now available on Spotify and Google Play. The latter launched this week and Spotify recently added spoken word content to its menu of entertainment…..Dita Holifield is promoted from her director of sales position to general manager for the Salem Media’s Honolulu station group.
Scott Herman Receives 2016 Ward L. Quaal Leadership Award. At a breakfast ceremony at the NAB Show in Las Vegas on Wednesday, CBS RADIO chief operating officer Scott Herman was presented with the 2016 Ward L. Quaal Leadership Award by the Broadcasters Foundation of America. The Broadcasters Foundation has distributed millions of dollars in aid to members of the industry who have lost their livelihood through a catastrophic event, debilitating disease or unforeseen tragedy. Pictured (l – r) are: CBS RADIO president Andre Fernandez, Herman’s wife Beth, Herman, and BFoA chairman Philip J. Lombardo.
Thursday, July 2, 2015
Talkers New York 2015 ‘Navigating a Talk Show Hosting Career’ Panel Video Posted Today. One of the most interesting panel discussions of the Talkers New York 2015 mega-conference (held on June 12) is posted today on Talkers TV. Moderated by WMAL, Washington, DC PD and recently-appointed Cumulus Media corporate PD/talk Bill Hess and introduced by WBAL, Baltimore host Jimmy Mathis — the informative session includes (in alphabetical order): Mandy Connell, host, KHOW, Denver/WHAS, Louisville; McGraw Milhaven, host, KTRS, St. Louis; Larry O’Conner, host WMAL, Washington, DC; Todd Schnitt, WOR, New York/Compass Media Networks; David Webb, host, SiriusXM Satellite Radio; and Dan Yorke, host WPRO, Providence. The panel covers a wide variety of issues pertaining to being a professional talk radio host – drawing upon the speakers’ personal experiences — including breaking into the business (each tells his/her own story); working at multiple stations doing separate shows; doing separate local and national shows; performing on both radio and television; simulcasting on multi-media platforms; using social and digital media for brand extension; creating digital-specific content; working productively with sales; dealing with ongoing corporate changes; being entrepreneurial to protect your career and financial options; overcoming challenges faced by women in the business; breaking through listener confusion in a noisy world; keeping it fresh and preventing topic burnout; making due with diminishing support personnel; and negotiating conflicts with management, plus more. To view the video in its entirety, please click here.
Profile: Bold Gold Media Group CEO Vince Benedetto. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a profile of Vince Benedetto, chief executive officer of the 10-year-old radio company Bold Gold Media Group. To say Benedetto is bullish on radio is an understatement. The former U.S. Air Force captain tells Kinosian he can’t believe so many people in the industry are such naysayers about its future. “There is an explosion of audio consumption because it is even easier to
consume. It is so strangely un-entrepreneurial to live in a world where audio demand and consumption is exploding, yet so many in our industry act as if it is the end of the world.” Benedetto began building his radio portfolio with the acquisition of four signals in the Catskill Mountains and Pocono Lake Region and grew into the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre market from there. He says, “There are things about radio that other businesses do not have as strengths. One is that you are not warehousing things, so you get to refresh your inventory every day. Radio’s margins are very good and you can get involved in many businesses all at once. If you do it correctly, you learn about many different kinds of businesses. It was exciting to me that I knew radio was about to go through many changes.” Read the entire piece here.
Cumulus Media and Audioboom Announce Partnership. This deal will allow Cumulus to use Audioboom’s SaaS platform for its content across station websites and mobile apps. Cumulus CEO Lew Dickey says, “This exciting new partnership marries Cumulus’ and Westwood One’s best-in-class local and national content with Audioboom’s industry-leading technology and distribution capabilities. Radio is America’s number-one reach medium, and as listeners continue to increase their consumption of audio, this
partnership allows for new ways for consumers to explore and engage with the radio stations and on-air talent they know and love today. Additionally, from an advertising perspective, the short-form and on-demand digital medium provides a unique and effective way for brands to activate consumers.” As part of the deal, Westwood One will sell the advertising within the digital platform and Audioboom will get a share of the revenue. Audioboom CEO Rob Proctor comments, “This partnership represents a major step-change in our plans for monetization, and as we see the full rollout of our platform across the entire USA, we expect to benefit from a considerable increase in monthly listens and registered users, but also a steady flow of advertising revenues.” The two companies are also expected to collaborate on original audio content to be distributed online.
CBS Launches ‘Small Business Pulse’ Platform. The new digital destination is an aggregation of CBS content that’s designed to target small business owners. Dubbed “CBS Small Business Pulse,” the site is a creation of the CBS Local Digital Media division. President Ezra Kucharz says, “CBS Small Business Pulse brings together the best content from across many CBS divisions plus new, original editorial on the topics that matter most to small business owners. CBS Small Business Pulse will provide the insights and knowledge small business owners need to immediately solve the challenges they face by delivering daily, easily digestible information across myriad topics that can easily be put into action.”
WCMC, Raleigh Conducts Third ‘Fan Town Hall’ with Duke’s Coach K. The event takes place tonight on WRAL-TV, Raleigh with WCMC “99.9 The Fan” personality Joe Ovies joining WRAL-TV’s Jeff Gravley for an hour-long “Fan Town Hall” featuring Duke basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski tonight from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The public is not allowed to attend the event but Gravley and Ovies will sprinkle in questions submitted by the public via social media using #FanTownHall. WCMC-FM programmer Dennis Glasgow says “Capitol Broadcasting continues to give unprecedented access to some of the Triangle’s most accomplished sports figures, and Coach K is no exception. We know how passionate sports fans are in North Carolina, and it’s important to us for the fan base to have social media access so that they can ask questions to the all-time winningest coach in college basketball history.”
Odds & Sods. Two KTSA, San Antonio personalities are being inducted into the San Antonio Radio Hall of Fame
this year. Longtime morning drive personality Trey Ware and traffic reporter (and voice/imaging pro) Johnny Shannon will be honored at a ceremony next month…..Longtime KFYI, Phoenix radio personality (and husband and business partner of WestStar Radio Network principal Kim Komando) 
Barry Young is one of four broadcasters to be enshrined in the Arizona Broadcasters Hall of Fame this fall. Being honored on October 15 along with Young are Bill Buckmaster, Tom Dillon and Maurie Helle…..Entercom is expecting to close on its purchase of the Lincoln Financial Media stations very soon but one programming change taking place is LFM-owned Atlanta sports talk WQXI’s loss of its ESPN affiliation. Dickey Broadcasting-owned WFOM (licensed to suburban Marietta) will become the new ESPN Radio affiliate, effective August 17…..PodcastOne is reporting that the four-week-old Shaquille O’Neal podcast has been holding the #1 spot on the iTunes Sports Charts for the past three weeks. PodcastOne also says the advertising industry is supporting the podcast with Mazda, Vonage, Draft Kings and True Car becoming sponsors.
TALKERS Weekly Affiliate Roundup. “Free Talk Live” with Ian Freeman and Mark Edge is now heard on new affiliates KKFT-FM, Reno and KEEL-AM, Shreveport, Louisiana…..The Envision Networks-syndicated “John and Leah Show” with John Ziegler and Leah Brandon adds new affiliates: WNIR-FM, Akron; WNYM, New York; WNTP, Philadelphia; WRGA, Atlanta; WHAS, Louisville; KKFT-FM, Reno; and WMEL-AM, Cocoa Beach, Florida.
Harry Hurley Way Dedicated. Pictured here is WPGG, Atlantic City morning drive personality Harry Hurley (at podium) speaking at the dedication of St. David’s Pl. in Atlantic City as Harry Hurley Way. Hurley tells TALKERS magazine that he took the opportunity to surprise Atlantic City Mayor Don Guardian (back row, left) by presenting his honor with the New Jersey Broadcasters Association 2015 Crystal Award for the “Ask The Mayor” program that airs on WPGG.
2016 Presidential Prospects, Fourth of July Terror Threats, Trump’s Pageant Troubles-NYC Contracts Being Reviewed, Hillary Clinton Emails Investigation, Obama Re-Establishes Cuba Diplomatic Ties, ISIS Atrocities, Greek Debt Crisis/EU Tensions, Jim Carrey Bashes California Vaccine Law, and Global Warming Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (7/1). The candidates for president in 2016; concerns over threats of Fourth of July terror attacks; Donald Trump’s legal issues with the Miss America and Miss Universe pageants and NYC’s review of his contracts; the ongoing investigation into Hillary Clinton’s use of private email for State Department business; President Obama re-establishes diplomatic relations with Cuba; the latest reports of barbaric activities from ISIS; the Greek debt problem, its fate in the EU and effects on global financial markets; Jim Carrey blasts California Governor Jerry Brown over vaccine law; and talk about the state of climate change were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday.
Friday, April 24, 2015
Jack Swanson to Lead KCBS, San Francisco Programming. Legendary spoken-word programmer Jack Swanson is named director of news and programming for KCBS “All News Radio 740AM and 106.9FM.” CBS RADIO SVP and market manager Doug Harvill says, “Jack has a distinguished track record of leading iconic radio stations. He’s a terrific leader with a deep understanding of how a market
leading station such as KCBS can be a trusted and active member of its community.” Swanson served for years as vice president of programming at Cumulus Media’s KGO and KSFO, San Francisco. He began his radio career as a news anchor/reporter for WLS, Chicago before becoming the news and program director for KGO, San Francisco. From there he became president and general manager for KING-FM, Seattle. He says, “Being asked to lead one of the best news teams in the country is one of those rare situations that don’t present themselves often. I’m looking forward to contributing to the amazing growth of this legendary station in the years ahead.”
Fruge, Thomas Involved in CBS Radio Programming Changes. Concurrent with CBS Radio Las Vegas vice president of programming Charese Fruge transferring to Houston for similar duties (and to be operations manager there), the company promotes Cat Thomas to succeed Fruge in Las Vegas. Thomas will continue as day-to-day programmer of Las Vegas’ KXTE “X107.5 – Alternative First”; talk KXNT AM & FM; and KXST “CBS Sports Radio 1140.” Senior vice president and CBS Radio Houston market manager Sarah Frazier comments, “Charese is a talented programmer and leader. Her longstanding relationships in the music industry, passion for radio, and ability to create special experiences for the listener are an integral part of why she is such a great fit for Houston. We are thrilled to have her join the Houston team, as we continue to grow and build upon our brands under her guidance.” Fruge
remarks, “This role is the opportunity of a lifetime and a chance to finally be back in the south. I am honored and am looking forward to working with the Houston team to help take these amazing brands to the next level. I have made lifelong friends in Las Vegas and appreciate them always making me look good.” Meanwhile, senior vice president and CBS Radio Las Vegas market manager Jerry McKenna states, “Cat Thomas is a veteran programming executive whose experience in this market is unmatched. He has 
successfully programmed [CHR] KLUC for the better part of two decades and most recently, has been the driving force behind the success of our spoken-word brands. Our stations are in very capable hands.” According to Thomas, “This is a dream come true. We have the biggest brands in the market. I have loved this group since we put these stations together in 1996. None of this would be possible without the passion of our staff. As [the late Ohio State University football coach] Woody Hayes said, ‘You win with people,’ and we have great people from top to bottom.” A member of the Nevada Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame, Fruge will oversee programming for hot AC KHMX “Mix 96.5”; sports outlets KIKK-AM and KILT-AM; country KILT-FM “The Bull”; CHR KKHH “Hot 95-7”; and Spanish contemporary KLOL “Mega 101.” She starts her new assignment – which will include day-to-day PD responsibilities for “Mix” and “Hot” – one week from Monday (5/4). Her resume includes on-air and programming stops in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Houston, San Diego, Denver, and New Orleans. In addition to KXTE, KXNT AM & FM, and KXST, Ohio State University alum Thomas will oversee CHR KLUC “Las Vegas’ #1 Hit Music Station” and hot AC KMXB “Mix 94.1.” Eight years after being night personality at KLUC, Thomas was elevated to program director (1996); he became PD of KXNT AM & FM, KXST, and KXTE last year. Similar to Fruge, Thomas’ first day on his new job is one week from Monday (5/4). Elsewhere at CBS Radio Las Vegas, KLUC assistant program director John “J.B. King” Bernard is promoted to program director and “Mix” assistant program director/music director Jonathan “J. Love” Campbell is boosted to PD of that station. Bernard joined KLUC 17 years ago and has been APD since 2001. He previously worked in San Francisco, Phoenix, and Sacramento. With CBS Radio Las Vegas the past three years, Campbell formerly programmed in Providence, Oxnard-Ventura (California), and Reno (Nevada).
The Howie Carr New England Juggernaut Rolls On. In a remarkable display of just how potent an independent regional talk radio network can be, radio/newspaper/author phenomenon Howie Carr continues to expand the reach of his Howie Carr Radio Network north into New Hampshire and southeast into Connecticut. Bringing the growing lineup to 22 radio stations (including flagship WRKO, Boston) are WASR, Wolfeboro, New Hampshire as well as Connecticut’s WMRD, Middletown and WLIS, Old Saybrook. On penetrating the Nutmeg State, Carr tells TALKERS, “I’ve always had a sizable audience in
Connecticut, and I’m happy that my listeners there can now find me even more easily. As a kid, I wanted to go to Wesleyan, and now I’m in Middletown — and Old Saybrook.” Don DeCesare, president/GM of WLIS/WMRD adds, “We’re thrilled to have Howie Carr as part of our onair lineup. Howie has been New England’s voice for years. We’re proud to add that voice now and be his stations in Connecticut.” Regarding this latest expansion of Carr’s network, TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison states, “It is only going to be a matter of months before the flood dam bursts and Howie Carr becomes a major national host eventually heard in all 50 states. He is at the top of his game.” Meet Howie Carr at Talkers New York 2015 on Friday, June 12. The annual conference is on the verge of a sellout. For registration and sponsorship information call 413-565-5413 or click here.
Salem Radio Network Welcomes Michael Medved Back. It’s a gradual return to his daily, syndicated talk radio show, but Michael Medved is slowly working his way back after treatment for throat cancer. Medved announced his hiatus from the program back on January 30. Now, SRN VP/news & talk programming Tom Tradup says, “We are SO grateful to have Michael Medved transitioning back into his SRN talk show. Monday he appeared by phone, and Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday he has been in his Seattle studio, hosting guests like U.S. Senator John McCain for discussion of today’s Obama apology for U.S. raids killing two hostages, plus the Senate confirmation of Loretta Lynch as Attorney General of the United States.” Medved has been a nationally syndicated host for the past 18 years.
Jim Gearhart and New Jersey 101.5 Morning Show to Broadcast from Battelship New Jersey. In recognition of Memorial Day, WKXW, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5” morning host Jim Gearhart and the rest of the morning show will broadcast from the deck of the Battleship New Jersey on May 22. In a letter inviting listeners to attend the broadcast, Gearhart writes, in part, “While the nation celebrates the start of summer this year, I invite you, your family and friends to honor the service and sacrifice of our veterans and active military during a special live broadcast of the ‘New Jersey 101.5 Morning Show’ aboard America’s most decorated battleship. The morning show team will be on the deck of Battleship New Jersey, located on the waterfront in Camden on Friday, May 22 joined by veterans, honor guards, military agencies and state dignitaries for patriotic music, discussions and storytelling…As a Naval veteran and the father of two enlisted men, it is my privilege to commemorate our military this Memorial Day Weekend, and I encourage all active and retired servicemen and women, as well as civilians, to come enjoy the show and share their appreciation for those who make America the land of the free and home of the brave.”
TALKERS Weekly Affiliate Update. The Genesis Communications Network-syndicated Dr. Joy Browne
show is added to the program schedule on WOMI, Owensboro, Kentucky…..Tom Gresham’s 
“Gun Talk” adds new affiliate stations WCGO, Evanston, Illinois; WMXI-FM, Laurel, Mississippi; KFEQ, Saint Joseph, Missouri; and KELY, Ely, Nevada to its roster…..AdLarge Media reports “The National Marijuana News” program is added to the lineup at: WHIG, Colorado Springs; WPEK-AM, Asheville, North Carolina; and WNOS, New Bern, North Carolina…..Christian radio offering “The HopeLine with Dawson McAllister” is two months into syndication and already heard on nearly 100 stations including recent new affiliates: WGEN-FM, Chicago and the MyGen Radio Network; WTRJ-FM, Jacksonville; and WCLN-FM, Fayetteville, North Carolina.
Iran Nuclear Negotiations Tops Talkers TenTM for Week of April 20-24. The negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program were the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio during the week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 was the ISIS violence tied with the military action taking place in Yemen. Coming in at #3 was the 2016 presidential prospects tied with the scrutiny of the operation of the Clinton Foundation, followed by the death of two hostages at the hands of American drones at #4. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. View this week’s entire chart here.
Friday, March 6, 2015
Beasley Reports 2014 Q4 Pro Forma Net Revenue Dips 4.3%. Getting an accurate picture of the fourth quarter – not to mention the total of 2014 – is a bit dicey because of the asset exchange between Beasley and CBS RADIO. But as Beasley chairman and CEO George Beasley says in the press release, “On a reported basis, fourth quarter net revenue from continuing operations rose 23.5% and SOI [station operating income] increased 14.6%, while operating income of $1.8 million was impacted by $1.7
million of transaction and termination expenses related to the Asset Exchange and otherwise would have compared favorably with the $2.8 million in the comparable year ago period. However, given the required accounting treatment for discontinued operations, the results include only one month of operations from the stations we received in the asset exchange, while excluding the results of the stations we gave up in the transaction. As a result, we believe a pro forma presentation, which assumes the asset exchange occurred on January 1, 2013, better reflects the operating results. On a pro forma basis, fourth quarter net revenue decreased 4.3% to $28.9 million while SOI declined 8.0% to $9.2 million. Importantly, while the fourth quarter pro forma presentation allows for a comparison of the same stations during both periods, it does not reflect our recently initiated and planned format and personnel changes in Tampa as well as expense reductions in Tampa and Charlotte, the benefits of which we expect will be reflected in our results as we move through 2015 and into 2016.”
20 Years of KKFN Sports Talk in Denver Being Recognized. This Monday (3/9), Lincoln Financial Media will celebrate 20 years of sports talk in Denver on KKFN. The format is now heard on KKFN-FM “104.3 The Fan,” but debuted in 1994 on KKFN-AM. The special broadcast will feature several former personalities and athletes who have been part of the two-decade history. The station’s original lineup included: the Fabulous Sports Babe (Nanci Donnellan), Woody Paige & Todd Mansfield, Doug Moe & Tom Green and Jeff Reckard. On Monday the station will welcome back former Fan personalities Woody Paige, Tom Green, Dan Issel, Charles Johnson, Irv Brown and Joe Williams. They will be joined by Rockies radio announcer Jerry Schemmel. The station’s current lineup is: “The Fan Morning Show with Mike Evans, Nate Lundy and Vic Lombardi” (5:30 am to 9:00 am), Dan Patrick (9:00 am to 12:00 noon), Sandy Clough and Scott Hastings (12:00 noon to 3:00 pm), “The Drive” with Alfred “Big Al” Williams and Darren “D-Mac” McKee (3:00 pm to 9:00 pm) and “The Fan Late Night” with Ryan Edwards and Shawn Drotar (9:00 pm to 12:00 midnight). “The Fan” will also hold an anniversary party on Thursday, March 26, at the Sports Column in downtown Denver. Listeners will get the chance to celebrate with members of “The Fan” on-air staff and celebrities.
iHeartMedia Names Charlie Wilkinson Dallas Market President. Moving to Texas from his most recent position with the company as regional president overseeing Charlotte and Raleigh, Charlie Wilkinson becomes market president of iHeartMedia’s six Dallas properties. EVP of operations – Texas majors Kelly Kibler comments, “Charlie has exceeded expectations and consistently raises the bar. He has proven his ability to create and lead winning teams. I’m confident he will continue to deliver consistent integrated revenue growth for the Dallas cluster.” Former market president, Deidre Richter, will join iHeartMedia’s national sales team and will report to Jeff Howard, president of national sales. Richter will lead the South Central Connections Team.
Odds & Sods. At the Cromwell Group’s Nashville sports talk duo “94.9 The Game 2” — WQZQ-AM and W235BW – morning drive co-host Joe Dubin leaves the station and partner Greg Pogue to return to television sports as sports anchor on WSMV-TV, Nashville, effective March 30…..This weekend begins Westwood One Sports’ presentation of a slate of exclusive women’s college basketball broadcasts this month. It gets underway Sunday with the Pac-12 Women’s Championship game and
culminating with the Women’s Final Four and National Championship in Tampa on April 7. On Tuesday, March 10, WW1 broadcasts the Big East Women’s Championship, live from Allstate Arena in Chicago. CBS Sports Radio talk-show host Amy Lawrence has the play-by-play, along with former University of Connecticut All-American Swin Cash as the analyst…..Salem Media Group New York brings Chief of Robotic Surgery at Lenox Hill Hospital, Dr. David Samadi, to the staff serving as chief medical correspondent for news/talk WNYM “AM 970 The Answer” and Christian talk WMCA “AM 570 The Mission.” Additionally, Dr. Samadi will host the new program “World Health News with Dr. Samadi,” airing Sundays from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.
Curtis & Kuby Roast Takes Place Monday in NYC. Gotham Comedy Club will be the site of the Curtis & Kuby Roast on Monday, March 9 at 7:00 pm. The duo – heard daily in middays on Cumulus Media’s WABC – will be in attendance as Roast Master Rich Vos (featured on Comedy Central, HBO, and Showtime) hosts a night of no-holds-barred comedy in honor of talk radio odd couple Curtis Sliwa and Ron Kuby. Comedians Kurt Metzger, Bonnie McFarlane, Geno Bisconte, Aaron Berg, and The Stone Brothers will all come out to roast the duo. Limited tickets are still available at www.wabcradio.com. The event is produced by Jeffrey Gurian in conjunction with Gotham Comedy Club and 77 WABC.
TALKERS Weekly Affiliate Roundup. The sports programming from Yahoo! Sports Radio is now being heard on Word Broadcasting’s WVHI, Evansville, Indiana…..The Genesis Communications Network-syndicated “Freedom Feens” show is now being heard on affiliate stations WRMN, Elgin, Illinois (Chicago market) and on WPNN, Pensacola, Florida.
Netanyahu Speech/Iran Nukes Top Talkers TenTM for Week of March 2-6. The speech before Congress by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the issue of a pact to allow Iran’s nuclear program to expand were tied for the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week. At #2 was the Supreme Court’s hearing a challenge to the Affordable Care Act. Coming in at #3 was the probe of Hillary Clinton’s use of private email for State Department business, followed by the Homeland Security Department funding battle and President Obama’s amnesty order at #4. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio this week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. View this week’s entire chart here.
Friday, September 13, 2013
Premiere Networks and Sean Hannity Agree to Multi-Year Extension. This contract renewal, which keeps nationally syndicated talk superstar Sean Hannity with Premiere Networks for years to come, also extends his reach. The company states that Hannity’s program will expand to additional major market Clear Channel talk stations as well as non-Clear Channel stations in 2014. Those details regarding station clearances will be announced at a later date. Additionally, the program will also move from delayed status to live on some of its existing Clear Channel affiliates,
“providing listeners with up-to-the-minute programming and real-time news and information.” As part of this new deal, Sean Hannity will participate in key live events, touring and iHeartRadio Talk, the latter of which the company calls, “the first mass-market focused audio platform to offer on-demand listener-created talk content side by side with established personalities, celebrities and shows.” Clear Channel Media and Entertainment chairman and CEO John Hogan states, “We’re really excited to be able to expand our relationship with Sean, one of the greatest talk radio talents in the country. Sean continues to be one of the most successful radio personalities in both ratings and delivering results for advertisers, and his provocative show has seen significant growth. His blend of intelligence, passion and integrity is what makes him such a successful broadcaster and important asset to radio. We expect this new distribution plan to offer even more exposure and growth for The Sean Hannity Show.” Hannity adds, “From the very first day I went on the air in 1986, and that red light went on, I have been in love with radio. That love has grown every day since. I am extremely appreciative and grateful for the opportunity to do what I love every day. Premiere has been an incredibly supportive partner and a huge part of the show’s success. I look forward to some amazing announcements to come, and the opportunity to continue a dialogue on the issues of the day with the single greatest audience in radio.”
Talkers Los Angeles 2013 Will Sell Out by End of Business Today! The third annual installment of TALKERS magazine’s West Coast convention set for Thursday, October 10 is shaping up to be a blockbuster. The gathering is closing in on being an advance sellout some four weeks before the event so it is advisable for media professionals interested in attending to register now! Due to space limitations at the intimate Steve Allen Theater in Hollywood reaching maximum capacity, reservations ($149 per person) will be sold out by the end of business (5:00 pm ET) TODAY (9/13). The conference is again being presented in association with the Los Angeles Press Club at the historic Steve Allen Theater on Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm. TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey states, “We are very enthusiastic about the growth and positive impact of this Southern California gathering. It started out three years ago as an experimental LA regional get-together and blossomed into an exciting companion to our big New York convention.” The event – open only to members of the working media – will feature a power-packed day of panel discussions, keynote addresses, special presentations, technology and services exhibits by leading companies such as Comrex Corp. and Broadcasters General Store, tremendous networking opportunities and abundant food and refreshments lavishly catered by the Original Brooklyn Water Bagel Company (lunch is sponsored by Premiere Networks and Fox News Channel star Sean Hannity who will address the attendees from New York). For registration or sponsorship information call 413-565-5413. To see the latest agenda, click here.
WTOP, Washington Hosts Special Town Hall on Syria. Hubbard Radio all-news WTOP, Washington hosted a special one-hour edition of its “Town Hall” program this morning from 10:00 am to 11:00 am during which WTOP Capitol Hill correspondent Dave McConnell and midday anchor Mark Lewis conducted a Q&A session with U.S. Reps Gerry Connolly (D-VA), Frank Wolf (R-VA) and Rob Wittman (R-VA) on the issues surrounding Syria.
OPINION: The Only Thing We Have to Fear Is…Ourselves. Sun Broadcast Group Inc. CEO Jason Bailey states in an op-ed piece that the future of talk radio is dependent upon today’s players being bold enough to dare to be different at the same time that we defend the nature of the format in the sales arena. Bailey, referencing the Rush Limbaugh–Sandra Fluke controversy, writes, “The hypocrisy of what a brand will run next to on television but not radio should enrage us all. But we’re afraid to stand up. Have you watched television lately? Calling somebody a slut is like the new way of saying hello. It’s not just modern day television either. I recall in the 80s, and now in reruns, Ms. Blanche Devereaux being called much worse. Did I miss the outrage, the boycott? Is it happening somewhere today because the Hallmark Channel chooses to run such “outrageous content?” No. There isn’t one because the television industry defended itself and stood up to being bold and different. They aren’t afraid to create (or in this case rerun) content for the people that are most important in their world, the viewers. If they push the envelope or they get a few complaint emails, they accept, and move on. We have not been able to move on from our darkest day because we’re afraid to be bold, break the mold, and more importantly, defend ourselves.” Read Jason Bailey’s entire piece here.
“Healed Planet with Alan Colmes” Debuts Sunday on Talkers Radio. A new experimental talk show conceived and hosted by Fox News Radio personality Alan Colmes will debut on Sunday night (9/15) as an exclusive monthly feature on TalkersRadio, the new internet radio station launched on the website of this trade publication earlier this week to serve as a professional “laboratory/workout gym” for talk show hosts to test new concepts. The program will air live every third Sunday of the month between 8:00 pm ET and 9:00 pm ET with numerous repeat airings during the period between new installments. “Healed Planet with Alan Colmes” will be an eclectic mix of science, metaphysics, unexplained mysteries, 
relationships, a small dose of politics and everything else rolling around the mind of Alan Colmes. According to TalkersRadio GM David Bernstein, “It is going to be fun, fascinating, stimulating and informative for talk listeners to hear all the dimensions that make up the personality, creativity and interests one of the nicest and smartest guys in the business – beyond the paradigm of general news/talk radio and TV where – let’s face it – Alan is quite famous. And THAT is what TalkersRadio is all about!” TalkersRadio debuted this past Tuesday with two new live and exclusive programs, “The Robbie Student Show” hosted by noted record producer (and emerging talk talent) Rob “Robbie Student” Stevens (Monday-Friday 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm ET) and “The Brent and Meg Show” hosted by the husband/wife team of legendary newsman Brent Seltzer and PR veteran Meg McDonald (3:00 pm to 5:00 pm ET). The station is being developed in layers and is expected to be featuring a full line up of creative, experimental programs within several weeks. For more information please contact David Bernstein at david@talkers.com.
Yahoo! Sports Radio Picks Pepe For Mid-Mornings. WUFC, Boston general manager amd midday personality Anthony Pepe has been tapped to host 10:00 am – 12:00 noon ET duties on Yahoo! Sports Radio. Longtime Boston Globe sports columnist Bob Ryan and Boston Herald sportswriter Ron Borges will also be featured on the daily two-hour program, which launches next Monday (9/16). “Anthony is an exceptional host; contributions from Ryan and Borges will provide compelling insights,” comments Yahoo! Sports Radio chief executive officer David Gow. Pepe remarks, “I am honored to host a show on Yahoo! Sports Radio and to work with guys like Ron Borges and Bob Ryan.” Pepe and Borges have been doing a weekly boxing show on the network.
New Dan Yorke TV Show Wraps First Full Week of Production. WPRO, Providence midday talk show host Dan Yorke debuted his nightly television program – “Dan Yorke State of Mind” – on Fox Providence’s myRITV on Monday, September 9. The nightly half-hour show airs at 7:30 and touches on the issues of the day with a special focus on Rhode Island stories. Yorke, who’s been a fixture in local talk media since first moving to WPRO in 2000, is no stranger to local TV. During his long stint on talk radio in the Springfield, Massachusetts market, he did a local program on WGGB-TV, Springfield that aired in late nights. Check out the Providence Phoenix piece on Yorke and his new show here.
KIRO-FM, Seattle Adds Weekend Programming. Bonneville’s news/talk KIRO-FM, Seattle announces some fall programming changes that surround its coverage of Seattle Seahawks football. The station notes the Jason Rantz show expands to a live three-hour show on Saturdays from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm and Sundays from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Rantz provides an in-depth analysis of the local and national stories that matter most to the Pacific Northwest, and offers one-on-one interviews with some of the biggest newsmakers in the region, including Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn and Washington’s marriage equality author Ed Murray. Three new shows are added to the Saturday night lineup: “Geekwire” is the preeminent technology news hub in the region, covering the people, companies and innovations emerging from the Pacific Northwest and impacting the world. Founders and co-hosts John Cook and Todd Bishop host the show beginning at 7:00 pm; renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson hosts the first and only radio program devoted to all things space during “StarTalk.” Tyson’s faithful media following lends himself to bridge the gap between pop culture and science with clarity, humor and passion each week with popular celebrities and special guests. It airs from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm; and the station adds Premiere Networks’ “Coast to Coast AM” to air from 10:00 pm to 4:00 am Sunday. Program director Pete Gammell says, “We’re excited to expand live and local news as part of the new KIRO Radio weekend lineup. Alongside live coverage of the Seahawks each weekend, our programming offers something that every Washingtonian can enjoy.”
Odds & Sods. Talk show host – and former U.S. Rep. from Arizona – J.D. Hayworth sits in for Michael Savage on tonight’s Cumulus Media Networks-syndicated program from 9:00 pm to 12:00 midnight ET…..Talk media personality Jeff Katz‘s daily 60-second feature “The Katz Commentary” — which currently airs on WCAP in the Boston area and KEWI in Little Rock is now heard every day at 1:00 pm on WDBF, Delray Beach, Florida during the Dick Farrel show…..Actress Julia Louis Dreyfus sits down with Entertainment Weekly editor Jess Cagle in front of a studio audience on SiriusXM’s “Town Hall” program. The show will be recorded on September 16 and air on September 19 at 8:00 pm ET on Entertainment Weekly Radio…..Comcast Sports Net New England is reporting that CBS Radio’s WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” will be the new home for the NBA’s Boston Celtics and the deal should be announced soon. Entercom’s WEEI chose not to renew with the team after the two sides could not agree to a contract renewal.
Chris Markowski ‘Money Minutes’ Feature Expanding. Financial expert Chris Markowski’s industry profile continues to grow as the host of the weekend syndicated program “Watchdog on Wall Street” continues to garner more affiliates for his free daily feature “Money Minute.” The program just added WJHC, Jasper, Florida “Talk 107.5.” Markowski is a regular face on cable news/talk and business talk television in addition to his weekly radio program daily vignettes. Stations interested in adding the daily “Money Minute” can contact Shannon Rose at info@mediaproductions.tv.
SiriusXM and Bleacher Report Team for Sports Talk Show. Adding the program to its SiriusXM Sports Zone channel, the satcaster is teaming with Turner Broadcasting-owned digital sports destination Bleacher Report to create “Bleacher Report Radio.” The daily show will air from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm and be hosted by SiriusXM’s Steve Covino and Rich Davis and feature some of Bleacher Report‘s most prominent contributors, including Mike Freeman, Matt 
Bowen, Matt Miller, Michael Schottey, Adam Kramer and Michael Felder. SiriusXM president and chief content officer Scott Greenstein states, “Bleacher Report has distinguished itself as a go-to source for passionate sports fans and we’re excited to team up to deliver a new and unique brand of sports talk to our subscribers. We are focused every day on giving our listeners access to the best sports content available, and the most in-depth access to their teams, no matter where they are across the U.S. ‘Bleacher Report Radio’ was created with that goal in mind and will showcase many of Bleacher Report‘s best writers while giving sports fans a forum in which they can react to and discuss the day’s headline stories involving their favorite teams and players.”
TALKERS Weekly Affiliate Roundup. Panama City, Florida-based Burnie Thompson show is added to the program schedule at WDVH-AM, Gainesville, Florida and WRZN, Hernando, Florida…..“Into Tomorrow with Dave Graveline” is added to the 10-station “SuperTalk Mississippi Radio Network” that covers the state…..“The Freedom Feens” hosted by Michael W. Dean and Neema Vedadi joins the weekend program schedule at WKRO, Cairo, Illinois…..Talk Media Network-syndicated “Frontlines of Freedom” with host Lt. Col. Denny Gillem adds KYYA, Billings and WHFB, Benton Harbor-St. Joseph, Michigan to its roster of affiliates. The network also announces “Fat Guys at the Movies” with hosts Kevin Carr and Kristin Dreyer Kramer is added to the program schedule at WBCF-AM/FM, Florence, Alabama and WHFB, Benton Harbor-St. Joseph, Michigan.
U.S. Debate Over Syria Action Top News/Talk Story of the Week. According to the Talkers TenTM, the debate over United States action in Syria was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio during the week of September 9-13. Landing at #2 on the chart was Vladimir Putin’s chastising the U.S. tied with threats from Iran. At #3 was the anniversary of the terrorist attacks of 9/11 and at #4 was the implementation of the Affordable Care Act. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is published every Friday at Talkers.com. To view this week’s chart, click here.
Hey Bad Guys – Watch Out!
TALKERS Spotlight: THE WATCHDOGS
By Mike Kinosian
TALKERS
Managing Editor/West Coast Bureau Chief
LOS ANGELES — Contrasted to national talk radio hosts who can sometimes get deeply mired in a monotonous right against left (or vice versa) onslaught, many of their local counterparts emerge as bona fide folk heroes for standing up against a coterie of injustices inflicted on their fellow residents.
Actions taken by this band of “watchdogs,” in the overwhelming number of instances, have nothing to do with political leanings or a partisan playbook.
Legendary for rooting out the “bad guys,” afternoon talk hosts “John & Ken” (John Kobylt & Ken Champiou) expose what they consider dirty dealings to their very large audience on Los Angeles’ KFI. Meanwhile, on the other side of the country, WRKO, Boston’s Howie Carr is a thorn in the side of the “powers that be” in New England. Everywhere in between, intense professional satisfaction comes when they go toe-to-toe with pit bull-like tenacity against the establishment. In that same sort of imagery, “hold their feet to the fire” has actually become a talk radio slogan as on-air talents attempt to expose and defeat “the bad guys.”
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