Tag: "Omaha"

Thursday, May 16, 2019

2019 RTDNA Newsroom Survey Shows More Radio News Being Produced, More Staff Added. The 2019 RTDNA/Lawrence Herbert School of Communication at Hofstra University Newsroom Survey – conducted annually for the past 25 years by Emeritus Distinguished Professor Bob Papper – indicates that “more radio and TV stations are producing more news, hiring more staff, investing in investigative and community-service reporting and adapting to changing technology.”  The news for commercial news/talk radio stations isn’t necessarily good since it appears greater participation in the survey by public radio newsrooms and major market newsrooms has beefed up those numbers.  Papper says, “The latest RTDNA/Hofstra University Survey shows the typical (median) radio news operation had a full-time news staff of one – the same as it’s been since I started doing these surveys 25 years ago.  All told, 80.8% of all multi-station local groups operate with a centralized newsroom.  That’s down 3 points from last year’s 84.1%.  The biggest differences in radio news staffing are between commercial and non-commercial stations. Along with a news director, the average commercial radio station has half a reporter (0.5) while the average non-commercial station has almost 2 (1.9). On the other side, the average commercial station has about a third of a person (0.3) in sports, and the average non- commercial station has zero. Usually, we go from year to year in radio news staffing with little to no change. Not this year. The median – or typical – number of radio news people at a station remained at 1.  That’s the same number it’s been for the quarter century that I’ve been doing this survey. But the average number of radio news people (per station) in this year’s survey soared from 2 to 3.1.  That’s a huge jump. And while we see that jump at its most pronounced at major market stations, every market category went up.”  Read more here

WMFS, Memphis to Launch ‘Giannotto & Jeffrey’ Afternoon Show. Sports talk WMFS-AM/FM, Memphis “92.9 FM ESPN” is launching a new 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm show featuring Mark Giannotto and Jeffrey Wright on Monday (5/20). Giannotto is a lead columnist for the Memphis Commercial Appeal who previously was a sports reporter for the Washington Post.  Wright serves as producer for the station’s 9:00 am to 11:00 am show hosted by Geoff Calkins and lead fill-in host.  The station says Connor Dunning will serve as the show’s executive producer. Dunning also is the social media/web/marketing lead for Entercom Memphis.

WSGW’s ‘Listen to the Mrs.’ Debuts in Podcast Form. The “Listen to the Mrs.” show has aired on WSGW, Saginaw, Michigan for the past 66 years, making it one of the longest-running talk shows in Michigan.  Now, the program that began as an “on-air, kitchen-to-kitchen network sharing recipes and homemaker tips over the phone” is morphing into a podcast.  Alpha Media announces the debut of the podcast version of “Listen to the Mrs.” with co-hosts Ann Williams (left) and Art Lewis (right).  Williams serves as the station’s news director and Lewis hosts the daily 9:00 am to 10:00 am program on the station.  Operations manager Dave Maurer says, “While we still like to hear from people raving about a great dish they had and sharing the recipe, the days of listeners calling to ask if we have a meatloaf recipe have given way to the Internet browser. Our new approach is sharing food trends, new cooking methods, and lifestyle information.”  WSGW has published 11 limited edition cookbooks over the past 30 years.  Only number 11 remains available.

KOZN, Omaha Hosts Olympic Champion Katie Ledecky. Olympic swimming champion Katie Ledecky (center) is pictured above with sports talk hosts Gary Sharp (left) and Damon Benning (right).  She appeared on the station’s morning show to promote the Olympic Swim Trials returning to Omaha.

TALKERS News Notes. The Tampa Bay Times is reporting that Bubba the Love Sponge is in danger of losing his Bubba Raceway Park property in Ocala, Florida that contains a racetrack, and his Bubba Radio Network studios.  The paper says he’s facing foreclosure on the property as Valley National Bank is suing him saying he owes more than $94,000 after defaulting on a line of credit…..The Weiss Agency – a talent agency representing award-winning local and nationally syndicated radio personalities and producers – is launching TWA Podcast Studio and its first program is, “Ghost Magnet with Bridget Marquardt.”  Celebrity paranormal investigator Bridget Marquardt is best known as a star of E! Networks’ “The Girls Next Door.”  In this podcast, she embarks “on an exploration of self-described ghost magnets and the spirits, poltergeists, and pookas they attract.”   This newly launched podcast division is headed by radio and publishing pro Joe Garner and will develop, produce, and distribute podcasts with the agency’s roster of talent as well as third party partnerships with outside talent and producers…..Westwood One News is presenting a Memorial Day Weekend program that takes listeners back to 1939, titled, “America on the Eve of War.”  The half-hour program is hosted by Westwood One News correspondent Barbara Kusak and explores the events leading up to the year Germany invaded Poland, Britain and France attacked Germany, and World War II was launched.  It’s available to affiliates for air Friday, May 21 through Monday, May 24…..The nationally syndicated “Motley Fool Money” radio show hosted by Chris Hill adds Hutton Broadcasting’s KTRC, Santa Fe to its roster of affiliate stations…..Pictured below is FOX Sports Radio personality Clay Travis – host of “Outkick The Coverage with Clay Travis” – at the Regions Tradition Celebrity Pro-Am golf tournament at the Greystone Golf & Country Club in Hoover, Alabama last week.  From left to right are: Widespread Panic lead singer John Bell, Travis, professional golfer Steve Stricker, singer/American Idol winner Taylor Hicks, and University of Georgia head football coach Kirby Smart.

U.S.-China Trade War, Alabama Abortion Law, 2020 Presidential Politics, Trump Immigration Reform Plan, U.S.-Iran Tensions, and China’s Moon Exploration Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/15). The trade war between the U.S. and China; the passage of a strict anti-abortion law in Alabama and the threat to Roe v Wade; New York Mayor Bill de Blasio enters the Democratic race for the nomination in 2020; President Trump announces his immigration reform plan; the military tensions between the U.S. and Iran; and China’s exploration of the dark side of the moon 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. New York City air personality Cubby moves over from iHeartMedia’s hot AC WKTU to the company’s adult contemporary WLTW “106.7 Lite FM” to co-host the morning show with Christine Nagy.  He takes over for Bob Bronson, who left the station last Friday after 10 years hosting mornings.  Cubby’s move from WKTU means Carolina Bermudez will host the WKTU morning show solo until a new co-host is named.  WLTW PD and iHeartMedia AC brand manager Chris Conley says, “Cubby is one of New York’s most entertaining and highly respected on-air personalities, and we’re incredibly excited that he’ll be joining the ‘Lite FM’ family.”…..Country WQNU, Louisville “Q103.1” names Kristin Monica afternoon drive personality and assistant program director, taking over for Kevin “Gravy” Canup, who is now serving as SummitMedia’s Knoxville cluster operations manager. Monica was most recently with Cumulus Media’s country WFYR, Peoria…..Bustos Media Holdings acquires KRCW, Royal City, Washington from Farmworkers Educational Radio Network, Inc. for $200,000.  Bustos Media CEO Amador Bustos says, “The purchase of KRCW will give us our ninth FM station in Eastern Washington.  Starting today (5/15), KRCW will be operated under an LMA and become part of the popular “LA MAQUINA” radio network.  KALIL & CO., INC. was the exclusive broker for this transaction.

April 2019 PPM Data – Round Two. April 2019 ratings information has been released for Washington (D.C.), Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis. 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 all 12 of these PPM-markets.

Washington, DC

Spoken-Word Formats – Following three straight improvements that yielded a collective +2.5 (4.3 – 5.7 – 6.6 – 6.8, 6+) and its best 6+-stat (6.8) in the PPM-era, Cumulus Media news/talk WMAL relinquishes 52% of that increase with a -1.3 to 5.5 (fourth to fifth, 6+). For the ninth sweep in succession, Radio One’s WOL “News Talk – Where Information Is Power” is unlisted; it posted a .2 (6+) in August 2018.

Adding eight-tenths to the one-tenth it gained in March (3.0 – 3.1 – 3.9, 6+), Entercom sports talk/Nationals flagship WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” jumps from a three-way tie at #13 into the top ten (#9). Steady at #23, Radio One’s similarly-formatted WTEM “980 The Team” is up a combined three-tenths in March/April (.5 – .7 – .8, 6+).

In addition to being an overall -1.7 in three straight setbacks (10.4 – 9.8 – 9.7 – 8.7, 6+), Hubbard all-news WTOP, which had sole possession of first place the past three sweeps, now shares the lead. January 2019’s 10.4 is its best 6+-performance since March 2018 (10.4, as well). Stuck on .4 (6+) in February and March, Entercom business news outlet WDCH adds one-tenth to .5 (6+) and stays at #25.

Albeit down two-tenths (8.9 – 8.7, 6+), American University-owned news/talk WAMU moves from second-place to a first-place tie with WTOP. Prior to gaining three-tenths in March, “The Mind Is Our Medium” was -2.2 (“Holiday” 2018); +2.5 (January 2019); and -1.2 (February).

Washington, DC Music Formats – Steady in sixth-place, contemporary Christian WGTS “91.9 Christian Music Radio” is an overall +1.8 as a result of four upticks in succession (3.5 – 3.6 – 3.9 – 4.6 – 5.3, 6+). The Atlantic Gateway Communications outlet erases its -1.4 through four straight September 2018 through “Holiday” 2018 declines (4.9 – 4.5 – 4.0 – 3.8 – 3.5, 6+). A combined +.7 in March/April (2.7- 2.8 – 3.4, 6+), Greater Washington Educational Telecommunications-owned WETA “Classical 90.9” advances from #16 to #13. Within three-share range (6+) in each of the last 24 ratings periods, Radio One urban contemporary WKYS gains two-tenths to 4.0 (6+) and carries on in eighth-place. The last time WKYS wasn’t between 3.0 – 3.9 (6+) was May 2017 (2.9). While it remains in third-place for the fifth time in a row, its urban AC cluster-mate WMMJ “Majic” forfeits four-tenths to 7.8 (6+), thus curtailing six successive increases that netted a +1.8 (6.4 – 6.7 – 6.8 – 7.4 – 7.5 – 7.9 – 8.2, 6+). Its format foe – Howard University’s WHUR – drops one-tenth in back-to-back reports (6.5 – 6.4 – 6.3, 6+) yet progresses from fifth to fourth. Its March loss of one-tenth pulled the plug on three successive upticks that accounted for a +1.2 (5.3 – 6.2 – 6.4 – 6.5, 6+). Ups/downs continue for iHeartMedia adult contemporary WASH “97.1 Washington’s Variety of the ‘80s ‘90s and Today,” which was a combined +5.6 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (4.8 – 7.3 – 10.4, 6+); sputtered by -6.1 (January); rebounded with a +.7 (February); regressed by -.6 (March); and now adds one-tenth in April (4.4 – 4.5, steady at #7).

Boston

Spoken-Word Formats – Even though iHeartMedia news/talk WRKO remains at #14, “AM 680 – The Voice of Boston” is without a loss the fourth time in a row for an overall gain of four-tenths (2.1 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 2.5, 6+). November 2018’s 3.2 is its best 6+-stat in more than four years (3.3, November 2014). Conversely, co-owned WXKS-AM “Talk 1200” is down or flat for the third straight time (.6 – .5 – .4 – .4, #27, 6+).

While it continues in third-place, Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” is off one full-share via three straight down or flat trends (7.2 – 6.4 – 6.4 – 6.2, 6+). Recent fluctuations for the key station of the Super Bowl champion New England Patriots (as well as the Bruins and Celtics) include +.4 (September 2018); +.9 (October); +.8 (November); -1.0 (December); +.5 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.6 (January 2019); and -.8 (February). Meanwhile, Entercom-owned WEEI-FM has been -.5 (September 2018); +.5 (October); +.6 (November); -2.0 (December); -.7 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.7 (January 2019); -1.0 (February); -.5 (March); and now +.6 in April (3.2 – 3.8, 6+). The flagship of the 2018 World Series champion Boston Red Sox returns to the top ten (#11 to #10), although it is actually down six-tenths from a year ago (4.4, #9, April 2018, 6+).

A combined +1.3 in January/February (4.3 – 5.5 – 5.6, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned news-talk hybrid WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” is unchanged from March in 6+ share (5.0) and market rank (sixth).

Major shifts continue for Boston University news/talker WBUR, which was -1.5 through five consecutive down or flat August through “Holiday” 2018 ratings periods (5.7 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 5.1 – 4.2, 6+); +1.5 (January); and now -2.4 in three drops in a row (5.7 – 4.6 – 4.1 – 3.3, #8 to #11, 6+). WGBH Educational Foundation news/talk WGBH is off a combined seven-tenths in March/April (2.7 – 2.2 – 2.0, #18 to #19, 6+).

Boston Music Formats – Anchored in seventh-place, Beasley Media Group’s WKLB is an overall +1.3 in four straight upticks (3.5 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 4.2 – 4.8, 6+). By gaining one-tenth in January, “Country 102.5” applied the brakes to seven successive down or flat reports that accounted for a combined -1.2 (4.7 – 4.5 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.5, 6+). Format challenger – iHeartMedia-owned WBWL “101.7 The Bull Boston’s #1 For New Hit Country” – is without a loss the fifth time in succession for a net gain of four-tenths (1.8 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 2.2, #20 to #16, 6+). An overall +2.2 through four consecutive up or flat trends (5.6 – 6.2 – 6.8 – 7.8 – 7.8, 6+), Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies WROR “105.7 – 80s & More” repeats at #1. In the market’s CHR contest, iHeartMedia-owned WXKS-FM “Kiss 108 – Boston’s #1 Hit Music Station” has a January 2019 through April 2019 topline of 7.3 – 7.4 – 7.3 – 7.1 (6+) and carries on in the runner-up slot, while Entercom’s WODS “103.3 Amp Radio” is in two-share range (2.2, -.2, #14 to #16, 6+) for the 18^th time in a row. February’s 7.4 is the highest 6+-showing since August 2018’s 7.8 for “Kiss,” which was #1 from January 2018 through November 2018, as well as January 2019 and February 2019. Gaining one-tenth (each) are Entercom hot AC WWBX “Mix 104.1 – Boston’s Best Variety” (3.8 – 3.9, tenth to ninth, 6+) and Cumulus Media’s similarly-formatted WXLO “104.5 XLO” (#20 to #19), which reaches the market from Worcester. Up seven-tenths in four consecutive positive or flat trends (1.3 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.9 – 2.0, 6+), WXLO has its best 6+-stat since November 2014 (2.0, as well).

Miami

English-Language Spoken-Word Formats – This marks the fourth consecutive sweep without a loss for iHeartMedia news/talk WIOD “News Radio 620 – Miami’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station,” which gains one-half share in that timeframe (2.2 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.7, #18 to #17, 6+).

Extending a positive streak as well is Entercom’s WAXY “Sports Talk 790 The Ticket,” which scores two-tenths in five straight positive or flat sweeps (.6 – .6 – .6 – .7 – .7 – .8, #27 to #25, 6+). Before picking up one-tenth in February, “The Ticket” was down or flat three successive reports for a loss of three-tenths (.9 – .6 – .6 – .6, 6+). Co-owned WQAM “Sports Radio 560” returns the two-tenths it picked up in March (.5 – .7 – .5, #27 to #29, 6+). March’s +.2 ended three consecutive sweeps without an increase that led to a decrease of four-tenths (.9 – .9 – .6 – .5, 6+).

Advancing from #20 to #19, Dade County School Board news/talk WLRN is up one-tenth in back-to-back reports (2.1 – 2.2 – 2.3, 6+).

Miami Music Formats – In addition to bouncing back from a March forfeiture of one-tenth with an April increase of six-tenths (2.9 – 3.5, 6+), Cox Media Group CHR WFLC “Hits 97.3” leaps into the top ten (#14 to #10). Prior to slipping to 2.9 (6+) in March, WFLC had been within 3.0 – 3.7 range (6+) in each of the previous 15 survey periods. Its format rival – iHeartMedia-owned WHYI “Y-100 Miami’s #1 Hit Music Station” – has a steady December 2018 through April 2019 topline of 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.5 – 2.6 – 2.5 (6+) and slips from #17 to #18. When “Y-100” added one-tenth in March, it curtailed five straight reports without an increase for a collective loss of nine-tenths (3.4 – 3.3 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.5, 6+). The two rivals are separated by one full-share (6+) in April, compared to three-tenths in March. Notwithstanding a drop of one-tenth (7.4 – 7.3, 6+), Cox Media Group-owned adult contemporary WFEZ “Easy 93.1” is #1 for the fourth report in succession (which includes February’s three-way tie at #1). Its March increase of eight-tenths completely wiped away February’s decline of that magnitude (7.4 – 6.6 – 7.4, 6+). Entering the “Holiday” 2018 sweep, “Easy 93.1” finished on top seven straight times. Carrying on in third-place is Entercom’s similarly-formatted WLYF “101.5 Lite FM,” which has a January 2019 through April 2019 topline of 6.4 – 6.6 – 6.2 – 6.2 (6+). An overall +1.9 through three October 2018 through “Holiday” 2018 gains in succession (5.4 – 5.7 – 6.2 – 7.3, 6+), “Lite FM” notched its best 6+-stat (7.3 in “Holiday” 2018) since January 2018’s 7.4. Adult contemporary outlets “Easy” and “Lite” traded places with each other in January, as WFEZ went from second to first and WLYF segued from first to second. Consequently, for the 12^th straight ratings period, an adult contemporary controls or has a share of Miami’s lead position (6+). Off a combined eight-tenths in March/April (4.9 – 4.8 – 4.1, 6+), Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish tropical WXDJ “El Zol 106.7” drops from seventh to ninth. As a result of four successive down or flat moves, co-owned WCMQ “Zeta 92.3” is -1.0 (6.1 – 5.8 – 5.7 – 5.7 – 5.1, fourth to sixth, 6+). Still in that SBS cluster, Spanish contemporary WRMA “Ritmo 95.7” is off six-tenths in March/April (3.4 – 3.3 – 2.8, 6+) and fades from the top ten (#10 to #16). In the market’s urban contemporary contest, Cox Media Group’s WEDR “99 Jamz” has lost eight-tenths via three straight declines (5.2 – 4.7 – 4.5 – 4.4, ninth to eighth, 6+), while iHeartMedia-owned WMIB “103.5 The Beat” has a consistent January 2019 through April 2019 topline of 2.9 – 2.7 – 2.9 – 2.9 (6+) and remains at #14.

Seattle

Spoken-Word Formats – Stabilizing from March’s -1.1 (5.9 – 4.8), KIRO-FM is unchanged in 6+-share (4.8) and market rank (fourth). The Bonneville news/talk outlet was a combined +1.0 in January/February (4.9 – 5.6 – 5.9, 6+). Co-owned KTTH “Conservative Talk Radio” has lost roughly 43% of its 6+-stat (-.9) in March/April (2.1 – 1.4 – 1.2, #22 to #23, 6+), following a January/February increase of six-tenths (1.5 – 1.9 – 2.1, 6+). It is now tied with Sinclair Broadcast Group-owned KVI “Talk Radio 570,” which falters four-tenths in March/April (1.6 – 1.3 – 1.2, #24 to #23, 6+), after gaining seven-tenths in January/February (.9 – 1.4 – 1.6, 6+).

Tacking on a massive +1.4 to a March gain of eight-tenths (2.1 – 2.9 – 4.3, 6+), Bonneville’s KIRO-AM “ESPN 710” rockets into the top ten (#17 to #6). In four consecutive November 2018 through February 2019 declines (4.1 – 3.9 – 3.8 – 3.0 – 2.1, 6+), the Mariners’ flagship lost roughly 50% (-2.0) of its 6+ AQH share. Down one-tenth (1.4 – 1.3, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KJR-AM “Seattle’s Sports Radio 950” remains at #22.

In four straight reports without a loss, KOMO was up seven-tenths (2.4 – 2.4 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 3.1, 6+), but the Sinclair Broadcast Group all-news operation forfeits three-tenths to 2.8 (6+) and slides from #15 to #18.

On the heels of March’s -1.0 (8.0 – 7.0, 6+), KUOW craters by another -1.3 to 5.7 (6+) and segues to second after three months in a row at #1. The Northwest Public Radio news/talk outlet was a combined +2.1 in January/February (5.9 – 7.4 – 8.0, 6+).

Seattle Music Formats – Winning ways continue for iHeartMedia-owned KZOK “102.5 Seattle’s Classic Rock Station,” which nets +1.9 in five straight bumps (3.7 – 3.9 – 4.4 – 4.5 – 4.8 – 5.6, 6+), progressing from fourth to third. Immediately in advance of this streak, KZOK was -1.6 in four consecutive ratings periods without an increase (5.3 – 5.1 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 3.7, 6+). Even though it has logged five successive up or flat sweeps for a collective +1.4 (2.1 – 2.1 – 2.4 – 2.8 – 3.3 – 3.5, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting’s “New Country 98.9 The Bull” KNUC backslides from #12 to #13. The three most recent shifts for Classic Radio, Inc.-owned KING “98.1 Listener-Supported Classical Music” are +.9 (February); -.5 (March); and now +.7 in April (2.4 – 3.1, #21 to #15, 6+). Its October 2018 through January 2019 topline was a consistent 2.2 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.0 – 2.0 (6+). Sandwiching a 2.5 (February and March) between a 3.0 in January and April (3.0 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 3.0, 6+), iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR KUBE “Seattle’s #1 For Hip-Hop” progresses from #20 to #17. Despite losing a collective four-tenths in three straight down or flat trends (7.0 – 6.8 – 6.8 – 6.6, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting CHR KQMV moves from second to first. It is the first time at #1 for “MOViN’ 92.5 – Seattle’s #1 Hit Music Station” since November 2018. An overall +1.5 through three consecutive increases (3.7 – 3.8 – 5.1 – 5.2, 6+), Entercom adult contemporary KSWD “94.1 The Sound” relinquishes a -1.1 to 4.1 (#3 to a three-way tie at #8, 6+). As the result of six successive months (May 2018 through November 2018) without a loss (3.3 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.8 – 4.2 – 4.9 – 5.0, 6+), country KMPS-turned-AC KSWD was +1.7. Overtaking “The Sound” is adult contemporary rival, Hubbard Broadcasting’s KRWM “Warm 106.9,” which records a 4.8 for the third time in the last four reports (4.8 – 4.0 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+). Entering the January sweep, “Warm” more than tripled (+7.8) its 6+-share as the result of three straight improvements (3.4 – 4.1 – 8.8 – 11.2, 6+); KRWM was #1 in December and “Holiday” 2018. Faltering by six-tenths are Entercom’s KKWF “100.7 The Wolf – #1 For Country” (4.1, seventh to eighth, 6+) and Crista Ministries contemporary Christian KCMS-FM “Spirit 105.3” (2.7, 6+), which drifts from #12 to #19. Prior to April, “The Wolf” was a cumulative +1.4 as a result of three straight bumps (3.3 – 4.3 – 4.5 – 4.7, 6+), while “Spirit” was up one-half share in February/March (2.8 – 3.2 – 3.3, 6+). In four straight sweeps without an increase, Sinclair Broadcast Group hot AC KPLZ is a collective -2.0 (5.1 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.1 – 3.1, flat at #15, 6+); moreover, “Star 101.5 Today’s Best Mix” has its lowest 6+-stat (3.1) since May 2017’s 3.0.

Detroit

Spoken-Word Formats – Having posted a 3.7 (6+) in January, Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760” notches a 3.5 for the third month in a row (#14 to #15, 6+).

Locked on 5.0 (6+) in February and March after January’s 5.2 (6+), Entercom sports talk/Tigers flagship WXYT-FM“97.1 The Ticket” is up four-tenths to 5.4 (eighth to sixth, 6+).

Co-owned WWJ erodes by eight-tenths in back-to-back reports (7.7 – 6.9 – 6.1, 6+) as “News Radio 950” shifts to the runner-up slot after a March-only stay in first-place. WWJ was a combined +1.6 in January/February (6.1 – 7.5 – 7.7, 6+).

For the fourth time in succession, WUOM logs a fluctuation of three-tenths (1.6 – 1.9 – 1.6 – 1.3 – 1.6, 6+); the Michigan Public Media news/talk facility returns to the top twenty (#21 to #20). Wayne State University news/talk WDET is down one-tenth in consecutive reports and trades places with WUOM (1.5 – 1.4 – 1.3, #20 to #21, 6+).

Detroit Music Formats – Down six-tenths in February, Cumulus Media’s WDRQ “93.1 Nash FM” has gained nine-tenths in March/April (1.6 – 1.9 – 2.4, #19 to #18, 6+). This (2.4) is its highest 6+-stat since July 2018’s 2.5. Country rival, Entercom-owned WYCD “99.5 – Detroit Country Music,” surrenders half of March’s +.4 with an April loss of two-tenths (5.1 – 4.9, seventh to eighth, 6+). As was the case with “Nash FM,” WYCD regressed by six-tenths in February, as well. It’s been a seesaw experience lately for Beasley Media Group-owned WCSX. In March, “94.7 – Detroit’s Classic Rock” sputtered by -1.3 (7.8 – 6.5, 6+) to shift from first to second. Now in April, it loses another two-tenths (6.5 – 6.3, 6+) yet reclaims the top spot. The March/April decline of -1.5 follows back-to-back gains of nine-tenths (6.0 – 6.9 – 7.8, 6+). January’s +.9 erased half of December/“Holiday” 2018’s -1.8 (7.8 – 6.6 – 6.0, 6+). WCSX spent four straight months at #1 before being dislodged in September. As of March, “Detroit’s Classic Rock” has a direct competitor in the form of iHeartMedia’s WLLZ “106.7 Detroit’s Wheels,” formerly alternative WDTW “Alt 106.7.” In its first monthly report, “Wheels” – resurrecting the WLLZ call letters used in the “Motor City” in the 1980s and 1990s – more than doubled (+1.9) the 6+-share on that frequency in February (1.5 – 3.4, 6+). “Wheels” now adds four-tenths to 3.8 (#15 to #14, 6+). A combined +.8 in three consecutive sweeps without a loss (4.6 – 4.8 – 5.4 – 5.4, 6+), Entercom classic hits-oldies WOMC “104.3 Detroit’s Greatest Hits” falters by two-tenths to 5.2 (sixth to seventh, 6+). Its CHR sibling, WDZH “Amp Radio,” transitioned to adult contemporary in early-November (2018), as “98.7 The Breeze.” With its new format, “The Breeze” is an overall +1.7 in six successive reports without a loss (2.3 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 2.9 – 3.6 – 4.0 – 4.0, #12 to #11, 6+). The station it is chasing – iHeartMedia AC WNIC – has eroded by nearly two-thirds (-11.8) over the past four sweeps (17.9 – 7.1 – 6.6 – 6.2 – 6.1, 6+) yet inches up from third to a second-place tie. Its 17.9 in “Holiday” 2018 is by far the largest 6+ AQH share by any Detroit station in the PPM-era. Via four straight increases, WNIC more than tripled (+12.2) its 6+-share (5.7 – 6.2 – 6.6 – 12.2 – 17.9, 6+); “The Best Variety of the ‘80s, ‘90s, & Today” was #1 in December 2018 and “Holiday” 2018.

Phoenix

Spoken-Word Formats – Locked on 3.4 (6+) in January and February, Bonneville news/talk KTAR-FM follows with a March/April gain of eight-tenths (3.4 – 4.1 – 4.2, 6+) and stays in eighth-place. Albeit flat at 2.6 (6+), iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” nonetheless climbs from #18 to #17.

An increase of one-tenth (2.3 – 2.4, 6+) is enough to push Bonneville sports talk/Arizona Diamondbacks flagship KMVP-FM “98.7 Arizona Sports” into the top twenty (#22 to #20). In a noteworthy Spanish sports talk development, Univision Radio’s KHOV “Univisión Deportes Radio” gains one-half share (.1 – .6, #32, 6+).

While off one-tenth in back-to-back-reports (3.6 – 3.5 – 3.4, 6+), Maricopa County Community College news/talk KJZZ carries on at #12; KJZZ was a combined +1.1 in January/February (2.5 – 3.2 – 3.6, 6+).

Phoenix Music Formats – After trending 6.5 – 5.4 – 5.3 (January – February – March, 6+) for a net loss of -1.2, Hubbard Broadcasting’s KSLX “Classic Rock 100.7” erases that deficit completely with an April +1.2 to 6.5 (6+) and repeats in the runner-up slot. It trails iHeartMedia adult hits KYOT “95.5 The Mountain – We Play Everything” by one-tenth. The four latest shifts by “The Mountain,” which is #1 for the third month in a row, are -1.2 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.6 (January/February); -.8 (March); and +.7 in April (5.9 – 6.6, 6+). An overall -9.7 through just three drops in succession (15.0 – 7.0 – 6.3 – 5.3, 6+), adult contemporary sibling KESZ pulls the plug by gaining two-tenths to 5.5, but backslides from second to third. January’s -8.0 halted four positive increases in a row that netted +8.9 (6.1 – 6.6 – 6.9 – 9.7 – 15.0, 6+), with 15.0 its highest 6+-showing since 16.4 in “Holiday” 2017. Within 3.0 – 3.9 range in each of the last seven sweeps (3.9 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.0 – 3.4, 6+), Entercom’s KMLE “Country @ 107.9” dials up +.6 to 4.0, its best 6+-showing since September 2018 (4.0, as well) and cracks the top ten (#13 to #10). Entering the March sweep, iHeartMedia’s KNIX improved by one-half share via five consecutive survey periods without a loss (4.6 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 5.0 – 5.1, 6+). In March/April, however, “102.5 Today’s Best Country” has now lost eight-tenths (5.1 – 4.5 – 4.3, sixth to seventh, 6+). Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KAIZ “Air 1 – Worship Now” debuts with a .5 (#34, 6+). Up a collective nine-tenths via three successive improvements (2.8 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.7, 6+), Farmworker Educational Radio regional Mexican KNAI “101.9 La Campesina” loses all but one-tenth of that increase (2.9, -.8, #11 to #15, 6+). Sputtering by seven-tenths are Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KOMR “Amor 106.3” (2.0, #17 to #22, 6+) and iHeartMedia regional Mexican KOY “El Patron” (#27 to #31, 6+). In four straight sweeps without a loss, “Amor 106.3” more than doubled (+1.4) its 6+-stat (1.3 – 1.3 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 2.7, 6+), while “El Patron” exactly doubled (+.7) its 6+-figure (.7 – 1.4) in March and more than quadrupled its (6+) January showing. Not only does a loss of six-tenths to 3.3 (6+) knock Entercom rhythmic CHR KALV “Live 101.5” out of the top ten (#10 to #13), it suspends three sweeps without a loss that accounted for a gain of nine-tenths (3.0 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 3.6 – 3.9, 6+).

Minneapolis

Spoken-Word Formats – Transforming its March decrease of seven-tenths into an increase more than twice that magnitude (3.3 – 4.8, +1.5, 6+), Entercom-owned Twins flagship WCCO returns to the top ten (#12 to #8). By gaining eight-tenths in January/February, “News Radio 830” ended six straight down or flat moves accounting for an overall -1.2 (4.4 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.1 – 3.8 – 3.2, 6+). Although off one-half share in March/April (3.4 – 3.2 – 2.9, 6+), after being +1.2 in January/February (2.2 – 3.3 – 3.4, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting news/talk KTMY “My Talk 107.1” remains at #13. In three straight down or flat trends (3.3 – 3.3 – 2.8 – 2.6, unchanged at #16, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KTLK “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” has lost seven-tenths.

Immediately after gaining four-tenths, which halted four declines in succession resulting in a -2.3 (6.7 – 5.7 – 5.6 – 4.9 – 4.4,  6+), KTLK cluster-mate KFXN erodes by nine-tenths (4.8 – 3.9, 6+) and departs the top ten (#8 to #12). Prior to November, “Sports Radio 100.3 K-Fan” logged four consecutive increases that yielded a +3.0 (3.7 – 3.8 – 4.9 – 6.5 – 6.7, 6+). Posting its fourth report in a row without a loss for a net gain of two-tenths (.6 – .7 – .7 – .7 – .8, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting sports talk KSTP-AM “ESPN 1500” carries on at #24.

Continuing its down/up sequence that began in December 2018 (4.2 – 4.0 – 5.0 – 4.3 – 4.7 – 4.6, 6+), Minnesota Public Radio news/talk KNOW slips from ninth to tenth.

Minneapolis Music Formats – Tacking on an impressive +1.1 to March’s +.1 (5.5 – 5.6 – 6.7, 6+), Cumulus Media-owned KQRS leaps from fifth to second. “Minnesota’s Classic Rock,” which had been within five-share range (6+) in each of the last 13 sweeps, has its best 6+-stat (6.7) since December 2016’s 6.9. A collective +1.9 via three straight bumps (4.6 – 5.2 – 5.6 – 6.5, 6+), University of Northwestern St. Paul contemporary Christian KTIS-FM advances from fifth to third. “Twin Cities Christian Radio – Always Uplifting” reaches the six-share threshold (6.5, 6+) for the first time since January 2016’s 6.4. The Twin Cities’ (6+) hot AC share escalated by +3.1 (January); deflated by -1.3 (February); improved by +.8 (March); and is +1.0 in April. That latter increase is equally divided between Hubbard Broadcasting’s KSTP-FM “KS-95” (7.0 – 7.5, repeating at #1, 6+) and iHeartMedia-owned KTCZ “Cities 97.1” (4.2 – 4.7, #11 to #9, 6+). “KS-95” was +1.9 in January; regressed by -.8 in February; and was +.6 in March. Meanwhile, after plummeting nine-tenths in “Holiday” 2018 to 3.3, its lowest 6+-performance since April 2018 (3.3, as well), “Cities 97.1” was +1.2 (January) -.5 (February); and +.2 in March (4.0 – 4.2, level at #11, 6+). With a February gain of seven-tenths, mainstream CHR cluster-mate KDWB progressed from third to first. In March, “101.3 The Twin Cities’ #1 Hit Music Station” repeated February’s 7.0, its best 6+-stat since September 2018’s 7.2, and shared the top spot with KSTP-FM. An April decline of six-tenths to 6.4 (6+), however, sends KDWB from a first-place tie to fourth. Co-owned classic hits-oldies outlet KQQL “Kool 108” has lost roughly 54% (-6.8) of its 6+ AQH share through four straight negative or flat trends (12.6 – 6.3 – 6.3 – 6.3 – 5.8, third to fifth, 6+). An overall +1.2 in four successive improvements (1.9 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 3.0 – 3.1, 6+), Northern Lights Broadcasting rhythmic CHR KZGO “Go Radio – Modern Minnesota Music” has that streak halted with a loss of two-tenths (2.9, #14 to a three-way tie at #13, 6+).

San Diego

Spoken-Word Formats – By gaining two-tenths in consecutive sweeps (4.0 – 4.2 – 4.4, ninth to eighth, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk KOGO “News Radio 600” eliminates February’s loss of four-tenths. January’s one-half share increase curtailed three straight down or flat trends that accounted for a collective forfeiture of eight-tenths (4.7 – 4.7 – 4.0 – 3.9, 6+). An overall +.9 as a result of four successive increases (1.6 – 1.9 – 2.0 – 2.4 – 2.5, 6+), Tegna news/talk KFMB-AM “AM 760 – Talk & Breaking News” progresses from #19 to #18. After picking up one-tenth in March to halt five consecutive San Diego losses that eventuated in a collective -.6 (1.7 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.1, 6+), iHeartMedia Los Angeles’ similarly-formatted KFI “AM 640” regresses by two-tenths to 1.0 (#22 to #23, 6+).

Entercom-owned KWFN “97.3 The Fan” nearly doubles March’s .9 (1.7, +.8, 6+) as the flagship of the Padres  advances from #23 to #21. Meanwhile, iHeartMedia’s KLSD “Fox Sports 1360 San Diego’s Sports Station” does double February’s 6+-stat (.4 – .5 – .8  #27 to #25, 6+). Even though Interamericana de Radio’s XPRS-AM was +.7 through four consecutive up or flat trends (.9 – .9 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.6, #21, 6+) with 1.6 its best 6+-performance since February 2018 (1.6, as well), “The Mighty 1090” has gone silent.

Three straight gains by San Diego State University-owned news/talk outlet KPBS resulted in a +2.6 (5.1 – 7.2 – 7.5 – 7.7, 6+), but it craters by -1.7, the largest (6+) March 2019 – April 2019 decrease of any station in the 24 PPM-markets we’ve reviewed so far, to 6.0 (6+). Even so, KPBS is on top for the fourth month in a row.

San Diego Music Formats – Adding nine-tenths to March’s +.3 (4.7 – 5.0 – 5.9, 6+), Entercom classic hits-oldies KXSN “Sunny 98.1 – San Diego’s Greatest Hits” jumps from fifth to second with its best 6+-stat since October 2018 (5.9, as well). As a result of four straight setbacks (6.6 – 6.0 – 4.6 – 4.5 – 4.3, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned CHR KHTS was a cumulative -2.3, but “Channel 93.3 – San Diego’s #1 Hit Music Station” rebounds with a combined March/April +1.2 (4.3 – 4.8 – 5.5, seventh to fourth, 6+). By adding an April increase of six-tenths to a one-tenth gain in March (1.9 – 2.0 – 2.6, 6+), Local Media San Diego-programmed alternative XTRA-FM “91-X” advances from #20 to #17. Faltering by eight-tenths (each) are iHeartMedia-owned KGB “San Diego’s Classic Rock” (fourth to seventh) and Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KLQV “Amor 102.9” (2.8 – 2.0, #15 to #20). An overall +2.2 through three consecutive improvements (3.7 – 3.8 – 4.5 – 5.9, 6+), KGB is -1.4 in March/April (5.9 – 5.3 – 4.5, 6+). In February, “San Diego’s Classic Rock” reached the five-share level (5.9, 6+) for the first time since May 2018’s 5.1. A March uptick of eight-tenths by “Amor 102.9” stymied three down or flat moves in a row that accounted for a collective loss of nine-tenths (2.9 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.0, 6+). Following three bumps in a row for a net increase of one-half share (2.7 – 2.8 – 3.0 – 3.2, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KIOZ “Rock 105.3” surrenders the entire spike (2.7, -.5, 6+) and falls from #12 to #16. In three consecutive improvements, Local Media San Diego-programmed urban-rhythmic oldies XHRM was a collective +1.3 (4.6 – 4.8 – 5.1 – 5.9, 6+), but “Magic 92.5, The Beat of San Diego” surrenders four-tenths to 5.5 (second to fourth, 6+).

Tampa

Spoken-Word Formats – Owing to a downturn of nine-tenths to 3.6, iHeartMedia-owned news/talk WFLA “970 Tampa Bay’s News Radio” has its successive string of increases which netted a +1.4 (3.1 – 3.6 – 4.3 – 4.5, 6+) halted at three and drifts from the top ten (#7 to #13, 6+).

Frozen on 2.9 (6+) in January and February, Cox Media Group news/talk WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” added two-tenths in March, but regresses by six-tenths in April (3.1 – 2.5, #15 to #17, 6+). A January gain of three-tenths interrupted three straight down or flat sweeps that accounted for a -1.0 (3.6 – 3.6 – 3.4 – 2.6, 6+).

Down by a combined six-tenths in February/March (2.3 – 2.1 – 1.7, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “620 Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” answers with an April spike of nine-tenths to 2.6 (6+) as the Rays’ key station jumps from #19 to #16.

The “Holiday” 2018 through April 2019 topline for University of South Florida news/talk WUSF is: 1.7 – 2.0 – 2.1 – 1.9 – 1.7 (#18 – #19, 6+).

Tampa Music Formats – A mini-slide by Radio Training Network contemporary Christian WCIE that resulted in a one-half share loss (4.4 – 4.0 – 3.9, 6+) concludes as “The Joy FM” notches a +1.0 to 4.9 (6+) and vaults into the top ten (#11 to #6). Anchored at #8, iHeartMedia-owned urban contemporary WBTP “95.7 The Beat” is without a loss the sixth successive sweep for a +1.2 (3.1 – 3.2 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 4.3, 6+). In three-share range (6+) in each of the last 16 reports, Cox Media Group CHR WPOI breaks out a +.7 to 4.1 (#13 to #10, 6+), as “Hot 101.5 – Tampa Bay’s New Hit Music” reaches the four-share level for the first time since “Holiday” 2017’s 4.0. It overtakes iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WFLZ “93.3 Tampa Bay’s #1 Hit Music Channel,” which is trending 4.4 – 4.0 – 4.0 (February – March – April, #9 to #11, 6+). The consecutive string at #1 for Cox Media Group adult contemporary WDUV hits 81, but “Lite Favorites” is a cumulative -4.7 in four straight setbacks (13.7 – 11.8 – 11.6 – 10.6 – 9.0, 6+). This (9.0) is its lowest 6+-showing since October 2018’s 8.9 and ends its streak of reaching double-digits (6+) at five. Its January decrease interrupted three straight gains that netted +4.8 (8.9 – 9.7 – 10.8 – 13.7, 6+). “Holiday” 2018’s 13.7 is the highest 6+-stat for any Tampa station since WDUV’s 14.9 in “Holiday” 2015. On the heels of March’s mammoth +2.1, co-owned WXGL “107.3 The Eagle – Tampa Bay’s Classic Hits” relinquishes roughly 43% of that gain (7.5 – 6.6, -.9, 6+) but repeats in the runner-up slot. In five successive sweeps without an increase prior to the March report, “The Eagle” was an overall -1.5 (6.9 – 6.6 – 6.0 – 5.7 – 5.4 – 5.4, 6+); it last reached the seven-share level (6+) in August 2018 (7.1).

Denver

Spoken-Word Formats – After posting January’s 4.8 (6+), iHeartMedia news/talk KOA “Colorado’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station” was frozen on 4.7 (6+) in February and March. The flagship of the Colorado Rockies notches a half-share increase in April to 5.2 (seventh to fifth, 6+). Co-owned KHOW “Talk Radio 630” has a “Holiday” 2018 through April 2019 topline of 1.1 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.1 – 1.3 (#25 to #24, 6+).

While flat at #17, Bonneville-owned KKFN is a collective -1.5 in three straight setbacks (4.1 – 3.3 – 2.9 – 2.6, 6+). “Sports Radio 104.3 The Fan” was -1.2 December/“Holiday” 2018; +.9 (January 2019); and -.8 (February). KSE Radio Ventures’ KKSE-FM “Attitude Sports Radio 92.5” doubles February’s 6+ stat (.3 – .4 – .6, 6+) and continues at #27.

Not only does Colorado Public Radio news/talk KCFR erase 45% of March’s -2.0 with a +.9 to 6.5 (6+), it reclaims the top spot. KCFR was a combined +1.2 in January/February (6.4 – 7.1 – 7.6, 6+) and was #1 in September 2018, October, and November before segueing to #2 in December. Surrendering the three-tenths it picked up in March (1.5 – 1.8 – 1.5, 6+), Community Radio for Northern Colorado news/talk KUNC falls from #19 to #21.

Denver Music Formats – Good news continues for Entercom rhythmic CHR KQKS, which is a collective +1.7 in four straight up or flat trends (2.9 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 3.8 – 4.6, 6+). Moreover, “KS-107.5” cracks the top ten (#13 to #9). Improving by one-half share (each) are hot AC sibling KALC “Alice 105.9” (4.5, #11 to #10, 6+) and classic rock cluster-mate KQMT “99.5 The Mountain” (4.7 – 5.2, seventh to fifth, 6+). KALC gained seven-tenths in February (4.0 – 4.7, 6+), curtailing three straight downturns that were responsible for a loss of seven-tenths (4.7 – 4.5 – 4.1 – 4.0, 6+), but was down seven-tenths in March (4.7 – 4.0, 6+). Repeating in the runner-up position, Bonneville’s country KYGO is +1.4 via four straight up or flat trends (4.3 – 4.6 – 5.0 – 5.7 – 5.7, 6+). Leaping from fifth to third, iHeartMedia’s KRFX “Classic Rock 103.5 The Fox” nets +1.4 in four straight sweeps without a loss (4.0 – 4.0 – 4.6 – 5.2 – 5.4, 6+). The four most recent fluctuations for KSE Radio Ventures’ classic hits-oldies KXKL are +1.2 (January); -.6 (February); +1.2 (March); and -.9 in April (6.3 – 5.4, 6+). “Kool 105 – Denver’s Greatest Hits” concludes its March-only stay at #1 and segues to #3. On the heels of March’s increase of seven-tenths (4.6 – 5.3, 6+), Bonneville adult contemporary KOSI “101.1 Real-Music-Variety” plummets by -1.3 to 4.0 (6+), fading from the top ten (#4 to #12). An overall +7.9 in three straight sweeps without a loss (4.9 – 4.9 – 7.6 – 12.8, 6+), KOSI was #1 in December and “Holiday” 2018 (with a 12.8, 6+), but was a combined -8.2 in January/February (12.8 – 5.3 – 4.6, 6+). The last time any Denver station reached the 12-share level (6+) was more than four years ago (KOSI, 12.4, “Holiday” 2014). Owing to three successive setbacks, Entravision’s KJMN “La Suavecita 92.7” is an overall -1.2 (4.7 – 4.2 – 4.0 – 3.5, 6+), slipping from #11 to #13.

Baltimore

Spoken-Word Formats – While it remains at #11, independent news/talk WCBM “680 Stimulating Talk – Breaking News” is down or flat the third time in a row for a collective loss of four-tenths (3.4 – 3.4 – 3.1 – 3.0, 6+). This is the third time in the last four survey periods that Hearst Television news/talk WBAL “News Radio – Expect More” logs a 2.7 (2.7 – 2.8 – 2.7 – 2.7, #13 to #12, 6+). Having doubled (+.3) its 6+ Baltimore stat in four straight up or flat sweeps (.3 – .3 – .4 – .5 – .6, 6+), Cumulus Media Washington, DC news/talk WMAL is off one-tenth to .5 (#26 to #28, 6+).

Following three slips in a row that resulted in a -1.0 (4.9 – 4.4 – 4.1 – 3.9, 6+), Entercom sports talk/Orioles flagship WJZ-FM “105.7 The Fan” slices the deficit in half with a half-share gain to 4.4 (tenth to eighth, 6+).

Co-owned business news WDCH answers March’s loss of four-tenths with an April uptick of seven-tenths (.9 – 1.6, 6+) and returns to the top twenty (#21 to #16).

Off by one-half share in back-to-back reports (3.4 – 2.9 – 2.4, 6+), Your Public Radio news/talk WYPR “88.1 Your NPR News Station” slips from #12 to #13; WYPR was a combined +1.1 in January/February (2.3 – 3.1 – 3.4 (6+). American University-owned news/talk WAMU, which gained one-tenth in March, drops three-tenths (1.5 – 1.2, #17 to #19, 6+).

Baltimore Music Formats – In addition to being a robust +2.2 in March/April (7.6 – 8.3 – 9.8, 6+), Radio One urban contemporary WERQ “92 Q Jams” is #1 for the third straight time and reaches the nine-share level (6+) for the first time since July 2016’s 9.2. Its January +1.0 applied the brakes to three consecutive declines that resulted in a -1.2 (7.9 – 7.7 – 7.0 – 6.7, 6+). Up one-half share in March, Entercom gospel WLIF-HD2 surrenders nearly twice that magnitude (1.9 – 1.0, -.9, #16 to #20, 6+). After posting a 15.2 (6+) in “Holiday” 2018, adult contemporary sibling WLIF-FM is trending 6.5 – 6.6 – 6.4 – 5.8 (third to fourth, 6+). Still in that Entercom cluster, WWMX “Mix 106.5 Baltimore’s Best Mix,” which had been without a loss four times in a row for a collective +1.0 (4.2 – 4.2 – 4.8 – 4.8 – 5.2, 6+), falters by four-tenths to 4.8 (6+) but continues in sixth-place. Following three positive spikes in a row for a net gain of six-tenths (1.6 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 2.2, 6+), iHeartMedia alternative WWDC “DC-101” drops two-tenths to 2.0 (#14 to #15, 6+). For the eighth sweep in a row, Peter and John Radio Fellowship contemporary Christian WRBS-FM is unlisted; “95.1 Shine FM – Baltimore’s Positive Hits Station” was #13 in August 2018 (2.6, 6+).

St. Louis

Spoken-Word Formats – The only station in the 24 PPM-markets we’ve highlighted so far making a (6+) March 2019 to April 2019 increase of at least two full-shares is Entercom news/talk KMOX “The Voice of St. Louis” (5.1 – 7.3, +2.2, 6+). Moreover, the St. Louis Cardinals flagship makes one of the most significant leaps within the top ten by vaulting from seventh to a first-place tie. The last time KMOX occupied the top spot was October 2018 (8.4, 6+). A combined +.8 in January/February (1.7 – 2.2 – 2.5, 6+), co-owned KFTK “FM News Talk 97.1” is now off four-tenths in March/April (2.5 – 2.2 – 2.1, #17 to #18, 6+).

After back-to-backs losses of one-half share (4.1 – 3.6 – 3.1, 6+), Hubbard sports talk WXOS “101 Sports” picks up one-tenth to 3.2 (#16 to #15, 6+).

Having posted a February gain of four-tenths, University of Missouri news/talk KWMU is now -1.3 in March/April (4.5 – 3.7 – 3.2, #14 to #15, 6+).

St. Louis Music Formats – The three most recent fluctuations for iHeartMedia’s KSD are +.5 (4.0 – 4.5, 6+, February); -.5 (4.5 – 4.0, 6+, March); and now +.9 in April (4.0 – 4.9, 6+), as “93.7 The Bull – #1 For New Country” reenters the top ten (#12 to #9). In late-2018, KSD was -.8 (August); +.5 (October); +.9 (November); -.5 (December); and -.6 in “Holiday” 2018. Its format rival – Hubbard Broadcasting’s WIL “New Country 92.3” – was up seven-tenths in March, but sputters by three-tenths in April (6.1 – 5.8, 6+), slipping from fourth to sixth. In February, WIL was down six-tenths to 5.4, its lowest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2017 (5.4, as well). A genuine model of consistency, urban AC cluster-mate KATZ-FM has recorded a 6+-share between 2.1 – 2.5 in each of the last 16 sweeps. In April, however, “100.3 The Beat” erupts with a one-half share gain to 2.7 (6+) and continues at #17. Hubbard Broadcasting’s KSHE “95 Real Rock Radio” was tied for February’s top spot with iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KLOU and then took sole possession of first-place in March. Now in April, KSHE again has to share the lead – this time with Entercom news/talk KMOX (see above). The six most recent shifts for KSHE are +.5 (December); -.7 (Holiday” 2018); +2.0 (January 2019); -.5 (February); +1.3 (March); and -1.6 in April (8.9 – 7.3, 6+); 8.9 is its highest 6+-share since November 2016 (8.6). Aforementioned KLOU “103.3 St. Louis’ Greatest Hits” was +1.6 in January but has since floundered by -1.7 in three dips in succession (7.9 – 7.6 – 6.8 – 6.2, third to fourth, 6+).