Tag: "Educational Media Foundation"

Wednesday, May 15, 2019

Atlanta Talker WYAY-FM’s Last Day Is May 31.  Like its hot AC sister in New York – WPLJ-FM – news/talk WYAY-FM, Atlanta will end its talk format on May 31 as the station will change hands, leaving the Cumulus Media fold and becoming carrier of Educational Media Foundation’s Christian music format “K-Love.”  The station’s talk personalities have been operating in a sort of limbo since the sale of the stations was announced in February. Talk hosts looking for new gigs include: Atlanta talk icon Kim “The Kimmer” Peterson, Shelley Wynter, Shannon Burke, and Mike Brooks.

Panama City Radio Stations to Broadcast Trump Speeches Daily Through 2020 Election. The trio of Panama City, Florida radio stations that Gulf Coast Media Inc. bought from Powell Broadcasting – classic rock WRBA-FM, country WKNK-FM, and adult hits WASJ-FM – will broadcast portions of speeches by President Trump each hour through the 2020 election, owner Samuel Rogatinsky says.  Powell sold the stations after Hurricane Michael damaged the facilities, knocking them off the air.  The president has promised to provide federal aid to the region and Rogatinsky says the company wants to thank him.  A statement from Gulf Coast Media explains, “Gulf Coast Media, Inc. senior management acknowledged that broadcasting the president’s speeches may not be consistent with conventional commercial FM radio, but we have taken this approach to show the community’s sincere appreciation for President Donald Trump’s work in Panama City and Bay County.”  The company says it will honor requests from other candidates to air time in order to comply with the FCC’s equal access rules.  Rogatinsky tells the Orlando Sentinel, “Really, we just want to have inspirational type things because the community is so down.  Nobody else is really promising or doing anything.  They want to hear what he has to say.”

TALKERS News Notes. FOX News Radio is launching a new, weekly podcast featuring FOX Business Network’s Liz Claman, titled, “Everyone Talks to Liz Claman.”  The program debuts today (5/15) with new episodes dropping every Wednesday.  The program features “interviews with motivational figures and entrepreneurs and provides an inspirational look into the key factors that drive today’s business elite.”…..Chicago urban talk station WVON-AM announces that former Cook County Board president Todd Stroger is joining the Maze Jackson-hosted morning show.  The new program is called “The Maze Jackson Morning Show with Todd Stroger” and airs from 6:00 am to 9:00 am.  Midway Broadcasting chair Melody Spann Cooper states, “Todd joining the team is a no-brainer in a town where politics is a second sport.” Stroger had been guest hosting the program prior to being offered a full-time position…..Bubba the Love Sponge has filed an amended complaint against Cox Media Group and WHPT, Tampa morning drive personality Mike Calta, stating that the company and Calta conspired to destroy his radio career by: falsely claiming Bubba’s ratings on then-WBRN-FM, Tampa were improving because of tampering; releasing the Hulk Hogan sex tape; pressuring Nielsen to remove PPM panelists with heavy Bubba listening; and more.  Bubba is requesting a jury trial and seeks damages to be determined at trial…..Pictured below is Salem Radio Network talk host Sebastian Gorka (left) in the Oval Office with President Trump (right).  Gorka served as national security strategist for Trump’s 2016 campaign and was a White House adviser prior to launching his SRN show, “America First,” in January.  Photo: Tia Dufour.

Skyview Networks Unveils Summer Agency-Focused Events. Saying that this summer’s “star-studded, agency-focused, pre-upfronts events calendar” features big names in news and entertainment, including CBS Audio’s Jane Pauley and Jill Schlesinger, as well as one of the hottest events of the summer, ABC’s GMA Concert Series, Skyview Networks reveals its schedule “designed to give agencies access to premiere talent and high-profile brand opportunities that can drive future integration development.”  These events include: the GMA Concert Series (May-Sept); the Radio Disney Music Awards, June 6, Los Angeles; Carla Hall Dinner, June 12, New York; Jane Pauley Luncheon, June 13, New York; and CBS Television/CBS Audio, The Late Late Show with James Corden, Taping, TBD.

U.S.-China Trade War, 2020 Presidential Politics, U.S.-Iran Tensions, Anti-Abortion Legislation, Southern Border Migrant Issues, S.F. Facial Recognition Ban, U.S. Birthrate Hits 30-Year Low, and NBA and NHL Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/14). The tariffs the U.S. and China are placing on each other’s exports; the Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020; the U.S. military presence in the Persian Gulf and Iran’s threats against U.S. interests; the recent anti-abortion legislation passed in Alabama and other states and the threat to Roe v Wade; the state of illegal immigration at the U.S.-Mexico border; the city of San Francisco makes use of facial recognition technology illegal; the birth rate in the U.S. hits a 30-year low; and the NBA and NHL playoffs were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Traffic Reporter Opportunity. This gig is in Miami where iHeartMedia’s Total Traffic & Weather Network is seeking a traffic reporter to work on WIOD “NewsRadio 610.” TTWN says, “We are looking for an energetic on-air talent, that can deliver a conversational sound. Previous traffic reporting isn’t required. If you have a natural sound, previous audio experience, and are willing to put in the work and effort, we’ll show you the ropes!” For information and to apply, click here.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Orlando alternative outlet WQMP “FM 101.9” has a new program director as Entercom names Matthew Malone to the position.  Malone previously served with Cumulus Media’s alternative KCJK, Kansas City “X105.1” as APD and music director.  He comments, “I am incredibly excited to be a part of the Entercom Orlando team and to be working with [SVP and market manager] Claudia [Menegus].  Being a part of a company that is actively embracing the alternative format, helping it grow, and under the guidance of a programmer that I have long respected – [SVP of programming] Mike Kaplan – I know that we can accomplish great things in Central Florida.”…..WDVE, Pittsburgh afternoon drive personality Sean McDowell announces he’s retiring from rock WDVE and the radio biz after 41 years in radio and 26 with WDVE.  McDowell broke the news on Randy Baumann’s morning drive program on the iHeartMedia station…..Twin Cities afternoon drive personality Moon, a.k.a. Larry Thompson, is leaving Hubbard Radio’s hot AC KSTP-FM “KS95” after 45 years in the radio business to focus on his health.  Moon, who co-hosts the afternoon show with Staci Matthews, was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2005.  Station PD Leighton Peck says, “We will all miss Moon’s incredible sense of humor and the fun he brings to the air and in the hallways.”…..Mt. Wilson FM Broadcasters names Angie Fitzsimmons morning drive host at country KKGO, Los Angeles, “Go Country 105.”

April 2019 PPM Data – Round One. Information for the April 2019 ratings period has been released for New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union. Nielsen Audio’s April 2019 survey period covered March 28 – April 24. See all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here.  Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” from these 12 PPM markets.

New York City

Spoken-Word Formats – For the third successive month, iHeartMedia news/talk WOR surrenders one-tenth (1.8 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.5, 6+); even so, “710 The Voice of New York” continues at #22. Off one-tenth as well is Cumulus Media-owned news/talk WABC (1.3 -1.2, flat at #23, 6+). It is tied with Townsquare Media’s similarly-formatted WKXW “New Jersey 101.5,” which has dropped a collective four-tenths in five straight down or flat sweeps (1.6 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.2 – 1.2, 6+).

Obliterating its combined February/March loss of three-tenths (3.3 – 3.1 – 3.0, 6+) with an April spike of +1.2 to 4.2 (6+), Entercom sports talk/Yankees’ flagship WFAN rockets from #12 to #6. Conversely, WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York,” the key station of the Knicks, is off four-tenths (2.2 -1.8, #18 to #20, 6+), thus snapping at three its consecutive string of up or flat trends that yielded eight-tenths (1.4 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 2.2, 6+).

While Entercom all-news WINS is unchanged from March in both 6+-share (3.7) and market rank (ninth), co-owned/similarly-programmed Mets flagship WCBS-AM forfeits one-half share (3.4 – 2.9, 6+) and exits the top ten (#10 to #13). WINS was a combined -1.1 in February/March (4.8 – 4.1 – 3.7, 6+), while WCBS-AM gained three-tenths in March (3.1 – 3.4, 6+).

Part of the three-way tie at #13 (which includes WCBS-AM) is WNYC Broadcasting Foundation news/talk WNYC-FM, which gains three-tenths to 2.9 (#14 to #13, 6+), curtailing four successive down or flat sweeps that resulted in an overall -1.0 (3.6 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 2.9 – 2.6, 6+). Having seen its 6+ share sliced in half (-.3) in February/March (.6 – .4 – .3, 6+), co-owned news/talk WNYC-AM picks up one-tenth to .4 (#33 to #31, 6+).

New York City Music Formats – With a January – February – March topline of 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.6 (6+), Entercom hot AC WNEW-FM “NEW 102.7” busts out a gain of one-half share to 3.1 (#14 to #11, 6+). Although flat at #17, Cumulus Media’s similarly formatted WPLJ is without a loss for the fourth straight sweep (2.0 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.5, 6+) for a cumulative gain of one-half share. WPLJ is soon to become contemporary Christian when its sale to Educational Media Foundation is finalized. On the heels of posting a one-half share increase, iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW forfeits seven-tenths (7.7 – 7.0, 6+), but “106.7 Lite FM” is #1 for the 22^nd consecutive ratings period. A January/February -5.3 (12.5 – 7.6 – 7.2, 6+), WLTW was +5.8 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (6.7 – 9.1 – 12.5, 6+). It holds a one-half share lead over Emmis urban AC WBLS “107.5 #1 For R&B,” which is down four-tenths to 6.5 (steady at #2, 6+). The loss suspends three straight gains that accounted for a collective +1.3 (5.6 – 6.3 – 6.8 – 6.9, 6+). For the eighth time in a row, iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR WKTU “103.5 KTU” (unchanged at #11) is within 3.1 – 3.6 range ( 3.6 – 3.2 – 3.3 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.1, 6+). Its format rival – Emmis’ WQHT “Hot 97” – loses three-tenths (3.8 – 3.5, 6+) and slips from seventh to tenth. Before gaining one-tenth to 3.8 (6+) in March, “Hot” notched a 3.7 (6+) in five of the previous six sweeps (3.7 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.5 – 3.7, 6+); WKTU logged a 3.1 (6+) in “Holiday” 2018, January 2019, and February 2019. Despite having recorded four consecutive ratings periods without a loss for an overall net of eight-tenths (2.0 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.6 – 2.8, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WNSH “New York’s Country 94.7” backslides from a three-way tie at #14 to #16.

Los Angeles

Spoken-Word Formats – A combined +.8 in January/February (3.2 – 3.8 – 4.0, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk KFI “AM 640” has lost three-tenths in March/April (4.0 – 3.8 – 3.7, 6+) but carries on in seventh-place. Its internet stream debuted in February with a .6 (6+); repeated it in March; and adds one-tenth in April (.7, #37 to #36, 6+). Tied at #33 are Salem Media Group news/talk KRLA “AM 870 The Answer” and iHeartMedia-owned news/talk KEIB “AM 1150 The Patriot.” KRLA is down one-tenth in back-to-back sweeps (1.0 – .9 – .8, #30 to #3, 6+), while “The Patriot” notches a .8 (6+) for the fifth time in the last six survey periods (.8 – .8 – .9 – .8 – .8 – .8, flat at #3, 6+). Down or flat the past four times for an overall loss of two-tenths (.7 – .7 – .6 – .6 – .5, 6+), Cumulus Media-owned KABC “790 News-Talk-Evolved” picks up one-tenth to .6 (#40 to #39, 6+).

Nearly doubling March’s 6+-stat (.7 – 1.3, +.6, 6+), iHeartMedia sports talk – and flagship of the 2018 National League champion Dodgers – KLAC “AM 570 LA Sports” leaps from #34 to #27. As a result of three down or flat moves in a row, Disney-owned/Lakers key station KSPN “710 ESPN” is off one-half share (1.6 – 1.5 – 1.1 – 1.1, 6+) but remains at #29.

Without an increase the third time in a row as well is Entercom’s KNX, which not only falters by nine-tenths in that timeframe (3.7 – 3.6 – 3.1 – 2.8, 6+), “1070 News Radio” exits the top ten (#9 to #12).

Erasing one-third of March’s loss of six-tenths with a gain of two-tenths (2.1 – 2.3, 6+), Pasadena City College news/talk KPCC “The Voice of Southern California” returns to the top twenty (#21 to a four-way logjam at #18).

Los Angeles Music Formats – In addition to extending its consecutive string of increases to four for a net gain of nine-tenths (3.3 – 3.5 – 4.0 – 4.1 – 4.2, 6+), Entercom adult hits KCBS-FM “93.1 Jack FM – Playing What We Want” progresses from sixth to fourth with its best 6+-stat since May 2018 (4.2, as well). Likewise, smooth AC sibling KTWV “94-7 The Wave” is a collective +1.4 as a result of its fourth uptick in succession (3.6 – 4.3 – 4.4 – 4.7 – 5.0, 6+) and continues in third-place. In five consecutive up or flat moves, Spanish Broadcasting System regional Mexican KLAX “97.9 La Raza” is a collective +1.0 (2.1 – 2.3 – 2.7 – 2.9 – 3.1 – 3.1, ninth to eighth, 6+). Not only does Meruelo Media Holdings rhythmic CHR KPWR continue its repetitive sequence (3.0 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 2.7 – 3.0, 6+), “Power 106” returns to the top ten (#12 to #10). Soon-to-be sibling KLOS records its fourth straight up or flat move for a net gain of four-tenths (2.4 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.6 – 2.8, 6+) and advances from #14 to #12. Meruelo Media Holdings is acquiring KLOS from Cumulus Media for $43 million and has already begun programming the station under a Local Marketing Agreement (LMA). After logging a 13.0 (“Holiday” 2018, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST has followed with a 6.2 – 6.5 – 6.5 – 6.3 (6+) as “Coast 103.5” is the market leader for the seventh straight time. Prior to January when it surrendered a -6.8 to 6.2 (6+), KOST was an overall +8.4 via five improvements in a row (4.6 – 4.7 – 4.9 – 5.1 – 9.0 – 13.0, 6+). Repeating in the runner-up slot, Entercom classic hits-oldies KRTH “K-Earth 101” is a cumulative +1.1 through five straight up or flat trends (4.4 – 4.4 – 5.1 – 5.3 – 5.5 – 5.5, 6+). Up two-tenths in back-to-back sweeps (3.2 – 3.4 – 3.6, January – February – March, 6+), Univision Radio Spanish contemporary KLVE “107.5 K-Love” forfeits six-tenths to 3.0 (eighth to tenth, 6+). While it remains in fifth-place, iHeartMedia hot AC KBIG “104.3 My-FM” has lost nine-tenths in three straight setbacks (5.0 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 4.1, 6+). In four consecutive upticks, Entravision Spanish adult hits KLYY “Jose” has more than doubled (+1.4) its 6+-stat (1.1 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.1 – 2.5, 6+) and enters the top twenty at #17. After both of the market’s mainstream CHRs dropped one tenth in March, they are down in April, as well. Specifically, iHeartMedia’s KIIS “102.7 Kiss FM” is off four-tenths in March/April (4.4 – 4.3 – 4.0, fourth to sixth, 6+), while Entercom-owned KAMP “97.1 Amp Radio” has lost one-half share in the same stretch (2.8 – 2.7 – 2.3, #12 to #18, 6+). “Kiss” was a combined +.9 in January/February (3.5 – 4.3 – 4.4, 6+); “Amp” – which is within 2.0 – 2.9 territory for the 23^rd time in a row – gained four-tenths in February. There are certain parallels in the alternative battle, as iHeartMedia’s KYSR “Alt 98.7 – LA’s New Alternative” is down one-tenth (2.4 – 2.3, #17 to #18, 6+), while Entercom-owned KROQ has lost a collective four-tenths in four consecutive sweeps without an increase (2.4 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.3 – 2.0, #19 to #22, 6+).

Chicago

Spoken-Word Formats – Following February’s one-half share gain, Tribune Media news/talk and White Sox flagship WGN has surrendered six-tenths (3.5 – 3.1 – 2.9, #11 to #14, 6+). In each of the last three sweeps, WLS-AM notched a 1.7 (6+) but the Cumulus Media news/talk outlet improves by one-tenth in April to 1.8 (#22 to #21, 6+).  

Down a combined half-share in February/March (3.3 – 3.0 – 2.8, 6+), Entercom sports talk/Cubs key station WSCR “670 The Score” answers with an increase of nine-tenths to 3.7 (6+), rocketing from #16 to #8 with its best 6+-showing (3.7) since October 2018’s 4.2. Up one-tenth in consecutive ratings periods (1.0 – 1.1 – 1.2, 6+), Disney/ESPN-owned WMVP “ESPN Chicago 1000” advances from #27 to #24.

On top the past three sweeps, Entercom news outlet WBBM-AM has lost a collective nine-tenths in three successive declines (6.2 – 6.1 – 5.8 – 5.3, 6+) and segues to fourth-place.

A combined +.8 as a result of three consecutive improvements (2.6 – 3.0 – 3.3 – 3.4, 6+), Chicago Public Media news/talk WBEZ sputters by six-tenths to 2.8 (6+) and drifts from the top ten (#9 to #15).

Chicago Music Formats – Over and above chalking up a one-half share gain to register its highest 6+-stat (5.9) since November 2017’s 6.3, Hubbard hot AC WTMX “101.9 The Mix” marches from second to first. Steady at #3, co-owned classic rock WDRV “97.1 The Drive” is a collective +1.5 in its fourth successive increase (3.9 – 4.5 – 5.1 – 5.3 – 5.4, 6+) and has its strongest 6+-showing (5.4) since 5.5 in August 2018. At the same time, adult contemporary sibling WSHE “100.3 SHE” scores eight-tenths via four consecutive up or flat moves (2.5 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.3, tenth to ninth, 6+). Proceeding from third to second, iHeartMedia urban AC WVAZ “V-103” nets nine-tenths in March/April (4.7 – 5.3 – 5.6, 6+), on the heels of being a cumulative -1.4 in eight straight down or flat trends (6.1 – 6.0 – 5.7 – 5.7 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 4.9 – 4.8 – 4.7, 6+). By gaining three-tenths to 3.2 (#14 to #12, 6+), iHeartMedia mainstream CHR WKSC “103.5 Kiss FM Chicago’s #1 Hit Music Station” overtakes Entercom CHR WBBM-FM “B-96” (3.0 – 3.1, +.1, flat at #13, 6+). Prior to April, “Kiss” displayed five consecutive 2.9 showings (6+), after dialing up a November 2018 3.3 (6+); “B-96” gained eight-tenths in March. Albeit flat at #23, iHeartMedia-owned WEBG is up or flat for the sixth time in a row; “Big 95.5 Chicago’s New Country” is up three-tenths in that stretch (1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.7, 6+). Despite picking up one-tenth (2.6 – 2.7, 6+), its format foe – Entercom-owned WUSN “US-99 Chicago’s Hottest Country” – backslides from #17 to #18. In three straight improvements, Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WLS-FM was an overall +.9 (3.6 – 3.7 – 3.9 – 4.5, 6+), but “94.7 Chicago’s Classic Hits” forfeits six-tenths to 3.9 (6+) and is unchanged in fifth-place. Up or flat the past three sweeps for a collective gain of six-tenths (3.0 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 3.6, 6+), Entercom urban-rhythmic oldies WBMX “104.3 Jams” relinquishes three-tenths to 3.3 (eighth to ninth, 6+). In three successive declines (5.5 – 5.0 – 4.2 – 3.9, 6+), Univision Radio regional Mexican WOJO is -1.6, yet “Que Buena 105.1” advances from sixth to fifth. Its January increase of nine-tenths halted a December/“Holiday” 2018 mini-slide that resulted in a loss of eight-tenths (5.4 – 4.7 – 4.6, 6+). Tied in fifth-place with WOJO is iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT, which is an overall -9.4 as a result of four consecutive sweeps without an increase (13.3 – 5.0 – 4.4 – 3.9 – 3.9, seventh to fifth, 6+); “93.9 Lite FM” was a combined +10.1 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (3.2 – 8.4 – 13.3, 6+).

San Francisco

Spoken-Word Formats – The December 2018 through April 2019 topline of Cumulus Media news/talk KSFO is: 2.3 – 2.1 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.3 (#15 to #16, 6+). Cluster-mate KGO has lost a collective eight-tenths via seven successive down or flat sweeps (2.2 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 1.8 – 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.4, #24 to #26, 6+). This marks the fourth straight month that iHeartMedia-owned KKSF-AM “Real Talk 910 – Think Forward” has logged a .2 (#34, 6+).

Off three-tenths in February/March (2.9 – 2.8 – 2.6, 6+), Cumulus Media sports talk/Giants flagship KNBR “The Sports Leader” roars back with a +1.0 to 3.6 (6+), vaulting into the top ten (#13 to #7). Having recorded a 1.8 (6+) in three of the last four sweeps (1.8 – 2.0 – 1.8 – 1.8, 6+), Entercom’s similarly-formatted KGMZ “95.7 The Game” is up one-tenth to 1.9 (6+) and returns to the top twenty (#22 to #19).

While it remains in the runner-up slot, all-news cluster-mate KCBS-AM is off a collective seven-tenths in three straight dips (7.0 – 6.5 – 6.4 – 6.3, 6+), directly after three consecutive gains for an overall +1.7 (5.3 – 5.7 – 5.8 – 7.0, 6+).

On top for the fourth straight month, KQED is nonetheless down one-half share (7.3 – 6.8, 6+); the Northern California Public Broadcasting news/talk outlet lost nine-tenths in February. More than tripling (+.9) its 6+-share in nine successive sweeps without a loss (.4 – .5 – .5 – .5 – .6 – .6 – .7 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.3, 6+), San Francisco Unified School District’s KALW “91.7 Local Public Radio” is now off a combined three-tenths in March/April (1.3 – 1.1 – 1.0, flat at #28, 6+).

San Francisco Music Formats – Within 3.0 – 3.9 range for the tenth time in a row (3.7 – 3.6 – 3.9 – 3.5 – 3.0 – 3.5 – 3.0 – 3.3 – 3.2 – 3.7, 6+), iHeartMedia urban contemporary KMEL “#1 For Hip-Hop and R&B” has its highest 6+-stat (3.7) since October 2018’s 3.9 and leaps from eighth to fifth. A combined +1.2 via three straight gains (3./8 – 4.3 – 4.9 – 5.0, 6+), co-owned adult contemporary KISQ erases half that increase with a loss of six-tenths (4.4, third to fourth, 6+). Prior to January, “98.1 The Breeze” had been off a combined nine-tenths in three setbacks in a row (4.7 – 4.4 – 4.1 – 3.8, 6+). Overtaking KISQ is Bonneville-owned/similarly-formatted KOIT-FM “96.5 Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites” (4.8 – 4.6, -.2, fourth to third, 6+), which completely erased February’s -.5 with a March +.5. KOIT-FM improved its 6+-stat by seven full-shares in December/“Holiday” 2018, (3.7 – 6.4 – 10.7, 6+), but was a combined -6.4 in January/February (10.7 – 4.8 – 4.3, 6+). Flat at #11, Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KBRG “Amor 100.3” is +1.0 in three straight sweeps without a loss (2.0 – 2.4 – 3.0 – 3.0, 6+) and has its best 6+-showing (3.0) since September 2018’s 3.1. Entering the top twenty at #19, Bonneville’s KUFX “98.5 K-Fox The South Bay’s Classic Rock” logs its fourth straight up or flat trend for a gain of six-tenths (1.3 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.9, 6+). In three successive improvements, Cumulus Media classic rocker KSAN was +1.1 (2.6 – 3.1 – 3.3 – 3.7, 6+), but “107.7 The Bone” falters by two-tenths to 3.5 (6+) and slips from sixth to ninth. Entercom hot AC KLLC “Alice @ 97.3” is down one-tenth in back-to-back sweeps (3.8 – 3.7 – 3.6, sixth to seventh, 6+), while iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted KIOI “Star 101.3” is off one-half share in three consecutive down or flat trends (3.4 – 3.1 – 2.9 – 2.9, flat at #12, 6+).

Dallas

Spoken-Word Formats – Three straight upticks accounting for a +1.4 by Cumulus Media’s WBAP (2.3 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 3.1 – 3.7, 6+) completely erases its December/“Holiday” 2018 loss of nine-tenths (3.2 – 2.7 – 2.3, 6+). Moreover, “News Talk 820” leaps into the top ten (#15 to #9). After posting a .7 (6+) in each of the last three sweeps, Salem Media Group-owned KSKY “660 AM The Answer” adds two-tenths to .9 (#34 to #32, 6+). Meanwhile, Cumulus Media’s KLIF-AM “570 News & Information” – which added one-tenth in back-to-back sweeps (.3 – .4 – .5, 6+) – drops one-tenth to .4 (#36 to #37, 6+).

Sports talk cluster-mate, KTCK is unchanged from March in 6+-share (2.7) and market rank (#16). “The Ticket All Sports All The Time” had been in an alternating down/up pattern (2.9 – 2.4 – 2.9 – 2.6 – 2.7, 6+). Having lost roughly half (-1.5) its 6+-share in three straight declines (3.1 – 2.5 – 1.7 – 1.6, 6+), Entercom’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” drops from #22 to #23. The flagship of the Texas Rangers was a +1.0 in seven straight sweeps without a loss (2.1 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.6 – 2.6 – 3.1, 6+). An increase of two-tenths to .8 (#35 to #34, 6+) by Disney/ESPN’s KESN “103.3 ESPN Dallas” halts six straight down or flat trends that resulted in its 6+-share being sliced in half (-.6) in that timeframe (1.2 – 1.2 – 1.1 – 1.0 – .9 – .8 – .6, 6+).

Without a loss for the fourth month in a row for a net gain of one-half share (2.0 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.5, 6+), Entercom news-talk hybrid KRLD-AM progresses from #19 to #17. “News Radio 1080” has been within a (6+) high of 2.8 and a low of 2.0 since “Holiday” 2016.

A collective +.8 via three improvements in a row (3.1 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 3.9, 6+), North Texas Public Broadcasting news/talk outlet KERA falters by three-tenths to 3.6 (seventh to tenth, 6+).

Dallas Music Formats – There is plenty of movement in the market’s contemporary Christian arena. On the plus side, an uptick of seven-tenths (3.5 – 4.2, 6+) enables Salem Media Group’s KLTY “94.9 Your Life … Inspired” to return to the top ten (#11 to #5), while WAY Media’s KAWA “WAY-FM, Uplifting-Upbeat-Real” improves by one-half share (1.1 – 1.6, #31 to #23, 6+) after eroding by -1.2 in March. Conversely, however, First Dallas Media-owned KCBI “90.0 Encouraging Music/Words of Hope” has its 6+-stat carved exactly in half (-.9) via three successive dips (1.8 – 1.6 – 1.5 – .9, #32, 6+) and Educational Media Foundation’s KYDA “Air 1 Worship Now” relinquishes one-half share (2.4 – 1.9, #18 to #21, 6+). This directly follows a March increase of six-tenths to 2.4, its strongest 6+-showing since December 2016 (2.4, as well). As a result of three successive drops (7.1 – 4.2 – 3.7 – 3.5, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary KDGE lost approximately half (-3.6) its 6+-share, but “Star 102.1” wipes away 25% of that deficit with an April gain of nine-tenths to 4.4 (6+), catapulting into the top five (#11 to #3). In eight successive sweeps without a loss, KDGE almost tripled (+4.4) its 6+-stat (2.7 – 2.9 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.5 – 3.7 – 5.1 – 7.1, 6+). Not only is co-owned CHR KHKS #1 for the fourth month in a row, “106.1 Kiss – Dallas/Fort Worth’s Hit Music” is a collective +.8 in four straight sweeps without a loss (5.9 – 6.1 – 6.3 – 6.3 – 6.7, 6+) and has its best 6+-stat (6.7) since May 2018’s 6.9. On top 12 straight times, “Kiss” shifted to #3 in “Holiday” 2018. Stuck on 4.2 (6+) in “Holiday” 2018 and January 2019 and then on 5.1 (6+) in February and March, classic rock cluster-mate KZPS “Lone Star 92.5” stumbles by seven-tenths to 4.4 (second to third, 6+). A combined +.9 in February/March (2.7 – 3.2 – 3.6, 6+), Service Broadcasting urban contemporary KKDA-FM “K-104” surrenders six-tenths to 3.0 (6+) and drifts from the top ten (#9 to #15). Having logged three straight positive spikes for a +1.2 (3.2 – 3.8 – 4.1 – 4.4, 6+), Cumulus Media country outlet KPLX “99.5 The Wolf” drops two-tenths to 4.2 (fourth to fifth, 6+). Co-owned/similarly-formatted KSCS “New Country 96.3” is off one-tenth (3.6 – 3.5, 6+) and departs the top ten (#9 to #13).

Houston

Spoken-Word Formats – Flat at #12, iHeartMedia news/talk KTRH has a January 2019 through April 2019 topline of 3.6 – 3.9 – 3.6 – 3.8 (6+). “News Radio 740” was -.7 in December (4.3 – 3.6, 6+); -.7 in “Holiday” 2018 (3.6 – 2.9, 6+); and +.7 in January 2019 (2.9 – 3.6, 6+). Repeating March’s .4 (6+), co-owned KPRC “AM 950 – Houston’s More Stimulating Talk Radio” checks in at #29.

Finishing at #22, #23, and #24, respectively, are Entercom’s KILT-AM “Sports Radio 610” (.9 – 1.1, +.2, 6+); iHeartMedia-owned/Houston Astros flagship KBME “Sports Talk 790” (.6 – 1.0, +.4, #27 to #23, 6+); and Gow Communications’ sports talk KFNC “ESPN 97.5” (flat at .8, unchanged at #24, 6+). KILT-AM lost a combined half-share in January/February; KBME reaches a one-share (6+) for the first time since November 2018’s 1.1; and – before losing one-tenth in March – KFNC had been up or flat six sweeps in succession for a net gain of three-tenths (.6 – .8 – .8 – .8 – .8 – .9 – .9, 6+).

Following a January gain of eight-tenths, University of Houston news/talker KUHF is off a combined half-share in three straight slips (2.7 – 2.6 – 2.4 – 2.2, #19 to #20, 6+).

Houston Music Formats – Down or flat the past three survey periods for a loss of seven-tenths (4.8 – 4.8 – 4.5 – 4.1, 6+), KSBJ Educational Foundation contemporary Christian KSBJ “89.3 – God Listens” erases that deficit with an increase of eight-tenths to 4.9 (tenth to seventh, 6+), its strongest 6+-showing since February 2018’s 5.0. Entering the April sweep, iHeartMedia’s KQBT “93.7 The Beat” had an interesting topline of 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.8 – 3.8 (6+). “The Beat” busts out a gain of six-tenths to 4.4 (steady at #11, 6+), extending its consecutive up or flat streak to six; it is +1.1 in that stretch. In the market’s country contest, Entercom’s KILT-FM “100.3 The Bull” regains the two-tenths it lost in March (5.2 – 5.0 – 5.2, sixth to fourth, 6+), while Cox Media Group’s KKBQ “93-Q” is flat at 4.7 (repeating in ninth-place, 6+). Before losing two-tenths in March, “The Bull” had been +1.7 via three upticks in a row (3.5 – 3.8 – 4.5 – 5.2, 6+); “93-Q” gained eight-tenths in March. Notwithstanding that iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA is an overall -4.6 in three slips in succession (12.1 – 8.6 – 8.5 – 8.2 – 7.5, 6+), “Sunny 99.1” is #1 for the 13^th straight time. Immediately in advance of this slide, KODA was a cumulative +4.9 via three consecutive gains (7.2 – 7.5 – 9.7 – 12.1, 6+). The four most recent fluctuations for Univision Radio regional Mexican KLTN “Que Buena 102.9” are +.5 (January,  6.5 – 7.0, 6+); -.8 (February, 7.0 – 6.2, 6+); +.5 (March, 6.2 – 6.7, 6+); and now -.6 (April, 6.7 – 6.1, flat at #2, 6+). Prior to plummeting -1.5 in “Holiday” 2018, “Que Buena 102.9” was a collective +3.3 through five successive increases (4.7 – 5.0 – 5.2 – 6.0 – 6.8 – 8.0, 6+). Down one-tenth in March, Liberman Broadcasting regional Mexican KQQK “El Norte 107.9” falters by another half-share in April (3.3 – 2.8, #16 to #17, 6+). While it repeats at #21, co-owned/similarly-formatted KTJM “La Raza” picks up two-tenths to 2.1 (6+), pulling the plug on five consecutive ratings periods without an increase for a collective loss of eight-tenths (2.7 – 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.0 – 1.9, 6+).

Atlanta

Spoken-Word Formats – Following three straight months at #1, WSB-AM slips to the runner-up slot. The Cox Media Group news/talk outlet erased two-thirds of December/“Holiday” 2018’s combined -2.1 with a January 2019 +1.4. It was -.9 in February; +.1 in March; and now declines by one-half share in April (7.1 – 6.6, -.5, 6+). WSB-AM had been on top 37 sweeps in a row before segueing to #2 in “Holiday” 2018. A loss of one-half share (1.4 – .9, #22 to #25, 6+) takes Cumulus Media’s WYAY “106.6 Where Atlanta Comes to Talk” below a one-share for the first time in nearly seven-years (.8, July 2012). Owing to three straight up or flat moves (1.2 – 1.2 – 1.3  1.4, 6+), WYAY gained two-tenths. Elsewhere in the market’s news/talk format, Entercom’s WAOK “1380 The Voice of the Community” picks up one-tenth to .4 (flat at #29, 6+), curtailing three dips in a row that accounted for a loss of four-tenths (.7 – .5 – .4 – .3, 6+), while Salem Media Group-owned WGKA “AM 920 The Answer” (.3 – .1, -.2, 6+) and iHeartMedia-owned WGST “Talk Radio 640” (.2 -.1, -.1, 6+) are tied at #31.

As a result of being a combined -.9 in March/April (4.0 – 3.7 – 3.1, 6+), Entercom sports talk WZGC “92.9 The Game” drifts from the top ten (#9 to #14). Conversely, Dickey Broadcasting’s WCNN “Sports Radio The Fan” is up one-half share in March/April (1.6 – 1.7 – 2.1, 6+), as the AM flagship of the Atlanta Braves advances from #20 to #18.

On the heels of a mammoth -1.4 in March, City of Atlanta Board of Education news/talk WABE is up two-tenths (3.4 – 3.6, #13 to #11, 6+). At the same time, however, Georgia State University news/talk WRAS dips two-tenths (.8 – .6, #226 to #28, 6+).

Atlanta Music Formats – Over and above posting its third straight increase for an overall +2.1 (4.9 – 5.4 – 5.7 – 7.0, 6+), Salem Media Group contemporary Christian WFSH “104.7 The Fish” vaults from fifth to first with its best 6+-showing (7.0) since 8.6 in “Holiday” 2018. By tacking on one-half share to March’s increase of two-tenths (3.3 – 3.5 – 4.0, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WUBL “94.9 The Bull” cracks the top ten (#11 to #9). Before eroding by -1.0 in February, “The Bull” was a collective +1.4 through four straight increases (2.9 – 3.5 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.3, 6+). Its country rival, Cumulus Media-owned WKHX “Kicks 101.5 – Atlanta’s #1 For Country Hits,” adds two-tenths (2.9 – 3.1, 6+) and progresses from #16 to #14. “Kicks,” which was off three-tenths in March, rebounded from January’s loss of six-tenths with an identical magnitude increase in February (2.6 – 3.2, +.6). There is an interesting development in the market’s competitive urban AC battle as the format’s 6+ share deflates by -1.5, immediately after it improved (in March) by +1.4. More to the point, Radio One’s WAMJ “Majic,” which was +2.5 via three successive positive spikes (4.4 – 5.4 – 6.3 – 6.9, 6+), sputters by eight-tenths to 6.1, shifting from second to fourth. Simultaneously, Cox Media Group-owned WALR “Kiss 104.1 Atlanta’s R&B,” +1.4 in February/March (4.5 – 5.1 – 5.9, 6+), returns half that increase (5.2, -.7, fourth to seventh, 6+). Both of the market’s mainstream CHRs are off one-tenth with each losing two rankers: Dropping from #9 to #11 is iHeartMedia’s WWPW “Power 96.1 Atlanta’s #1 Hit Music Station” (3.7 – 3.6, 6+), while Cumulus Media-owned WWWQ “Q-100 Atlanta’s New Hits” falls from #11 to #13 (3.5 – 3.4, 6+). Stuck on 3.4 (6+) in “Holiday” 2018 and January 2019 before dropping to 3.0 (6+) in February, “Power” broke out a +.7 in March. “Q-100” logged a +.7 in January; forfeited six-tenths in February; and was flat in March.

Philadelphia

Spoken-Word Formats – Without an increase the third straight time for an overall loss of four-tenths (2.5 – 2.5 – 2.3 – 2.1, 6+), Entercom’s WPHT “Talk Radio 1210” slips from #18 to #20. Flat at #23, Townsquare Media news/talk WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” drops one-tenth in back-to-back sweeps (1.5 – 1.4 – 1.3, 6+).

At the same time, Entercom’s WIP “Sports Radio 94.1” improves by two-tenths in consecutive ratings periods (5.9 – 6.1 – 6.3, 6+) as the Phillies’ flagship – which was -1.3 in February – proceeds from fourth to third. Dropping from #14 to #15, Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” – the key station of the 76ers and Flyers – has an October 2018 – April 2019 topline of 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 2.7 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 2.6 (6+).

While off a collective -1.0 via three declines in a row (5.0 – 4.6 – 4.4 – 4.0, 6+), Entercom’s KYW repeats in ninth-place. “News Radio 1060” was down eight-tenths in “Holiday” 2018, but rebounded in January with a gain of seven-tenths (4.3 – 5.0, 6+).

For the second month in a row, public news/talk WHYY falters by four-tenths (3.0 – 2.6 – 2.2, #16 to #18, 6+).

Philadelphia Music Formats – After trending 2.3 – 2.1 – 2.2 (January – February – March, 6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WKVP “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” erupts with a +1.2 to 3.4 (#19 to #12, 6+). A combined -1.3 in February/March (7.1 – 6.7 – 5.8, 6+), Beasley Media Group’s WMGK not only logs a +1.0 to 6.8 (6+), “Classic Rock 102.9 MGK” leaps from sixth to first. It displaces Entercom-owned WBEB “Today’s 101.1 More FM” (7.0 – 6.7, -.3, first to second, 6+), which has a March-only stay at #1. Philly’s market leader from March 2018 through June before being dislodged in July, WBEB was +10.1 (6.5 – 10.4 – 16.6, 6+) just prior to January 2019’s -10.3 (16.3 – 6.3, 6+); it gained one-half share in March. By forfeiting three-tenths to 4.5 (unchanged at #8, 6+), format challenger, iHeartMedia’s WISX “106.1 The Breeze – Relaxing Favorites,” interrupts four up or flat trends that generated a combined +2.3 (2.5 – 3.0 – 4.4 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+). Formerly rhythmic hot AC “Real 106.1,” WISX became adult contemporary “106.1 The Breeze” in mid-November (2018). Anchored in seventh-place, Beasley Media Group-owned WXTU “92.5 Philly’s Country Station” is a collective +2.2 through four straight gains (3.6 – 4.5 – 4.9 – 5.0 – 5.8, 6+) and has its strongest 6+-showing since July 2018 (5.8, as well). Also notching an April gain of eight-tenths is iHeartMedia’s WRFF (3.1 – 3.9, #13 to #10, 6+), as “Radio 104.5 – Philadelphia’s Alternative Rock” has its best 6+-stat (3.9) since November 2017’s 4.0. Segueing from second to fifth, Entercom classic hits-oldies WOGL “98.1 – Nobody Plays More 80s” is a combined -1.1 in March/April (7.1 – 6.8 – 6.0, 6+), after its +2.1 in January/February (5.0 – 6.3 – 7.1, 6+). WOGL jumped from a three-way tie for third (January) to first in February. Three successive improvements by Beasley Media Group-owned WMMR accounted for an overall +1.7 (4.9 – 6.0 – 6.4 – 6.6, 6+), but “93.3 Everything That Rocks” surrenders seven-tenths to 5.9 (third to sixth, 6+).

Long Island

Spoken-Word Formats – Recapturing the three-tenths it squandered in March (2.5 – 2.2 – 2.5, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WOR “710 The Voice of New York” jumps from #19 to #15. Although it repeats at #25, Cumulus Media news/talk WABC is off one-tenth to 1.4 (6+), snapping at four its consecutive string of up or flat trends that netted two-tenths (1.3 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5, 6+).

Not only does Entercom sports talk WFAN rack up a gain of seven-tenths (4.4 – 5.1, 6+), the Yankees’ flagship zooms from fourth to a first-place tie with its highest 6+-share in Long Island (5.1) since October 2018’s 5.6. Similarly-programmed WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” is unchanged from March in 6+-share (1.8) and market rank (#21).

An increase of one-half share (3.3 – 3.8, 6+) enables Entercom all-news WCBS-AM to enter the top ten (#11 to #8). Co-owned/similarly-formatted WINS has lost eight-tenths in three straight slips (3.6 – 3.5 – 3.0 – 2.8, #13 to #14, 6+). These two siblings were a combined +1.3 in January.

Unlisted in October 2018 and November, WNYC Broadcasting Foundation news/talk WNYC-FM resurfaced in December (2.0, #17, 6+); was off three-tenths in “Holiday” 2018 (1.7, #19, 6+); added four-tenths in January 2019; but is down or flat for the third time in succession for a net loss of one-half share (2.1 – 2.0 – 1.6 – 1.6, #22 to #24, 6+).

Long Island Music Formats – Without an increase in each of the last four ratings periods for an overall loss of eight-tenths (5.3 – 4.9 – 4.6 – 4.5 – 4.5, 6+), Entercom classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM “101.1 New York’s Greatest Hits” answers with a gain of six-tenths to 5.1 (6+) and ties sports talk cluster-mate WFAN at #1. Following five straight times at #1, Connoisseur Media-owned hot AC WALK-FM shifts to the runner-up slot. A combined +6.1 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (4.4 – 6.5 – 10.5, 6+), “97.5 – Real Variety” has now lost over half its 6+-share (-5.5) in four consecutive declines (10.5 – 6.0 – 5.9 – 5.1 – 5.0, 6+). A collective -5.8 through three drops in succession (9.2 – 4.6 – 4.2 – 3.4, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW “106.7 Lite FM” concludes that slide with a one-tenth increase (3.5, tenth to ninth, 6+). The six most recent fluctuations for Connoisseur Media classic hits-oldies WBZO “103.1 Max FM” are -.8 (December 2018); -.7 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.1 (January); -.5 (February); +.7 (March); and now -.5 in April (3.7 – 3.2, #8 to #12, 6+). Four successive sweeps without a loss by Cox Media Group-owned WBAB netted a +1.3 (3.1 – 3.1 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 4.4, 6+), but “102.3 Long Island’s Only Classic Rock” drops four-tenths to 4.0 (fourth to sixth, 6+). Tied with identical 2.4 – 2.1 (-.3, #15 to #19, 6+) profiles are Connoisseur Media-owned WWSK “94.3 The Shark – Long Island’s Home For Everything That Rocks” and Entercom hot AC WNEW-FM “NEW 102.7,” as the two stations have positive streaks come to an end. “The Shark” was a cumulative +.9 in five straight up or flat trends (1.5 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 2.4, 6+), while “NEW 102.7” “logged four up or flat reports in succession for a +.8 (1.6 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 2.2 – 2.4, 6+).

Riverside

Spoken-Word Formats – This is the seventh consecutive sweep that iHeartMedia news talk KKDD is without an increase (.4 – .2 – .2 -.2 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1, 6+), but “1290 News Talk IE” manages to move from #24 to #23.

It is tied with co-owned KPWK “Fox Sports Radio 1350 AM,” whose November 2018 through April 2019 topline is .2 – .2 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .2 – .1 (6+). For the 16^th straight sweep, similarly-formatted/Los Angeles Angels-owned (LAA 1, LLC) KLAA “Angels Radio AM 830” is unlisted.

In a December 2018 through April 2019 down/up pattern which includes April’s loss of nine-tenths (1.3 – 1.1 – 1.5 – 1.4 – 1.7 – .8, 6+), San Bernardino Community College news/talk KVCR drops from #11 to #13 and has lost one-half share in that timeframe. Meanwhile, Pasadena City College news/talk KPCC “The Voice of Southern California” is down or flat for the third time in a row (.3 – .2 – .1 – .1, #24 to #23, 6+).

Riverside Music Formats – The Inland Empire’s huge news is that Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA gains four-tenths (6.8 – 7.2, second to first, 6+) at the same time that Entravision’s KLYY “Jose” regresses by that magnitude (7.4 – 7.0, -.4, first to second, 6+). “Jose” and KOLA had been at #1 and #2, respectively, in each of the past 11 sweeps. KOLA hit #1 in May 2018 with a 6.5 (6+). “Jose” is off for the fifth consecutive report for a collective -3.5 (10.5 – 8.5 – 8.2 – 8.1 – 7.4 – 7.0, 6+). December 2018’s 10.5 marked the first time any Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario station reached double-figures (6+) since April 2015, when KLYY recorded a 10.4. A collective -1.9 via four successive negative trends (2.2 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.2 – .3, 6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian outlet KLRD “Air 1 Worship Now” wipes away nearly half that deficit with a +.9 to 1.2 (#19 to #12, 6+). Progressing by one-half share are Univision Radio Spanish contemporary KLVE “107.5 K-Love” (4.1 – 4.6, steady at #4, 6+) and Liberman regional Mexican KRQB “Que Buena 96.1” (2.8 – 3.3, unchanged at #8, 6+). “K-Love” was stuck on 4.6 (6+) in January and February, before sputtering by one-half share in March; “Que Buena” had been within 2.0 – 2.9 range (6+) in each of the last 11 ratings periods. In three successive improvements, LC Media urban-rhythmic oldies KQIE was a collective +1.6 (2.1 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 3.7, 6+), but “Old School 104.7” is off three-tenths to 3.4 (flat at #7, 6+). After posting five consecutive up or flat trends for an overall gain of two-tenths (1.3 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.5, 6+), Univision Radio-owned Spanish adult hits KRCD returns one-tenth to 1.4 (#12 to #11, 6+); “Recuerdo” is in one-share range (6+) for the 20^th successive ratings period.

San Jose

Spoken-Word Formats – This marks Cumulus Media news/talk KGO’s seventh straight San Jose sweep without an increase for an overall -1.1 (3.0 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.9, #18 to #19, 6+). Meanwhile, four straight up or flat moves by co-owned news/talk KSFO have accounted for a one-half share increase (.9 – 1.2 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.5, #22 to #23, 6+).

Off three-tenths in February/March (3.4 – 3.3 – 3.1, 6+), sports talk cluster-mate KNBR “The Sports Leader” rebounds with a +1.1 to 4.2 (6+) as the flagship of the Giants inches up from eighth to seventh. In consecutive sweeps, Entercom sports talk KGMZ “95.7 The Game” picks up two-tenths (1.5 – 1.7 – 1.9, #20 to #19, 6+).

All-news sibling KCBS-AM is -1.5 in March/April (7.1 – 6.7 – 5.6, third to fourth, 6+), directly after a collective +1.4 in four straight ratings periods without a loss (5.7 – 5.9 – 5.9 – 7.1 – 7.1, 6+).

Albeit down two-tenths (7.1 – 6.9, 6+), Northern California Public Broadcasting news/talk KQED marches from second to first. A combined -.9 in January and February (7.1 – 6.9 – 6.2, 6+), KQED erased that deficit in its entirety with a gain of nine-tenths in March. Having added one-tenth in back-to-back (February/March) sweeps (.7 – .8 – .9, 6+), San Francisco Unified School District news/talk KALW is flat in April (.9, #27 to #26, 6+).

San Jose Music Formats – No other station in the 12 PPM-markets highlighted here makes a larger (6+) March 2019 – April 2019 improvement than Bonneville’s KUFX “98.5 K-Fox The South Bay’s Classic Rock” (3.8 – 5.3, +1.5, sixth to fifth, 6+). On the other end of the spectrum, Alpha Media classic hits-oldies KBAY “94.5 Bay FM – The Bay’s Greatest Hits” suffers the largest (6+) March 2019 – April 2019 decrease of any station in these 12 PPM-markets (7.7 – 6.2, -1.5, first to second, 6+). We are not through though with the magnitude of 1.5, as – prior to the April sweep – “Bay FM” had been +1.5 via three upticks in a row (6.2 – 6.9 – 7.3 – 7.7, 6+). For a change of pace, it was a combined -1.8 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (8.0 – 6.9 – 6.2, 6+), after being an overall +1.7 in October/November (6.3 – 6.9 – 8.0, 6+). Co-owned hot AC KEZR “Mix 106 – Today’s Best Music,” which gained six-tenths in in three straight up or flat trends (5.0 – 5.0 – 5.4 – 5.6, 6+), regresses by eight-tenths to 4.8 (fifth to sixth, 6+). Format rival, iHeartMedia’s KIOI “Star 101.3,” is a collective -1.1 in three straight slips (4.6 – 3.8 – 3.6 – 3.5, seventh to eighth, 6+). “Star” was -.8 (4.6 – 3.8, “Holiday” 2018, 6+); +.8 (3.8 – 4.6, January 2019, 6+); and -.8 (4.6 – 3.8, February, 6+). For the fourth straight month, Entercom adult contemporary KOIT-FM is unlisted in San Jose. As the result of five straight increases (3.0 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.3 – 6.0 – 10.1, 6+), it was a cumulative +7.1 and reached #1 in “Holiday” 2018. KOIT-FM remains in print in the San Francisco report.

Middlesex

Spoken-Word Formats – On top for the fourth month in a row, Townsquare Media news/talk WKXW has nonetheless lost an overall eight-tenths in three straight drops (8.1 – 7.9 – 7.5 – 7.3, 6+); “New Jersey 101.5” was +1.2 in January. Locked on 3.4 (6+) in January and February, iHeartMedia news/talk WOR slips by three-tenths in back-to-back sweeps (3.4 – 3.1 – 2.8, #14 to #18, 6+). January’s +1.0 completely erased the overall December/“Holiday” 2018 -1.0. After three straight times of notching a 1.0 (6+), Cumulus Media news/talk WABC falters by three-tenths to .7 (#26 to #27, 6+).

An increase of seven-tenths (3.0 – 3.7, 6+) elevates Entercom sports talk/Yankees key station into the top ten (#15 to #10). Similarly-programmed WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” is a collective -1.1 in six straight ratings periods without an increase (2.9 – 2.5 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 1.9 – 1.8, #23 to #24, 6+).

Entercom all-news/Mets flagship WCBS-AM has gained a combined seven-tenths in March/April (2.2 – 2.4 – 2.9, #19 to #16, 6+), while, in the same stretch, co-owned/similarly-programmed WINS is down three-tenths (1.9 – 1.8 – 1.6, flat at #25, 6+). Prior to March WINS posted four straight gains that accounted for a one-half share increase (1.4 – 1.6 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.9, 6+). Even though it adds one-tenth (2.4 – 2.5, 6+), WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM backslides from #19 to #20; WNYC was up a combined eight-tenths in January/February (2.0 – 2.5 – 2.8, 6+).

Middlesex Music Formats – Having surrendered three-tenths in March, WPLJ “New York’s 95.5 PLJ” roars back with a +1.0 (2.3 – 3.3, 6+) and reenters the top twenty (#21 to #15). The Cumulus Media hot AC is in the process of being sold to Educational Media Foundation and will flip to contemporary Christian when the deal receives final approval. Climbing from third to second, iHeartMedia mainstream CHR WHTZ “Z-100” is a combined +1.9 in four straight improvements (4.3 – 4.5 – 5.2 – 5.8 – 6.2, 6+). Immediately in advance of this string, “Z-100” was without an increase four successive times for a collective -1.1 (5.4 – 5.0 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 4.3, 6+). Off a combined three-tenths in February/March (3.3 – 3.1 – 3.0, 6+), urban contemporary cluster-mate WWPR “Power 105.1” responds with a gain of seven-tenths to 3.7 (#15 to #10, 6+). Entering the top ten as well is Pillar of Fire contemporary Christian WAWZ “Star 99.1,” which picks up one-half share (3.3 – 3.8, #12 to #8, 6+). Regressing by one-half share are Entercom classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM “101.1 New York’s Greatest Hits” (4.1, steady in fifth-place, 6+) and Emmis owned rhythmic CHR WQHT “Hot 97” (3.2 – 2.7, #13 to #19, 6+). WCBS-FM had been up six-tenths through three consecutive gains (4.0 – 4.3 – 4.4 – 4.6, 6+). When “Hot” picked up two-tenths in March, it halted five straight sweeps without an increase that accounted for a loss of seven-tenths (3.7 – 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.0 – 3.0, 6+). In addition to logging its fourth straight decrease for an overall -2.4 (5.8 – 4.5 – 4.3 – 3.5 – 3.4, 6+), Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WMGQ “Magic 98.3 Today’s Hits – Yesterday’s Favorites” fades from the top ten (#9 to #14).