TALKERS

December PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round Four

December 2019 PPM Data – Information for the December 2019 ratings period has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen Audio’s December 2019 survey period covered November 7 – December 4. Managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” from the PPM-markets below.

Austin

Spoken-Word Formats – Off a combined half-share in November/December (5.0 – 4.6 – 4.5, 6+), Emmis Austin Radio Broadcasting Company news/talk KLBJ-AM “News Radio 590” slips from eighth to ninth. October’s 5.0 is its best 6+-performance in more than six years (5.0, as well, June 2013). Advancing from #27 to #26, Entercom’s KJCE “Talk Radio 1370” has posted a .3 (6+) seven times in the last ten sweeps and a .4 (6+) the other three (.3 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .4 – .4 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .4, 6+).

The hot streak continues for Genuine Austin Radio sports talk KTXX “The Horn,” which has more than doubled (+1.6) its 6+ AQH share through six consecutive upticks (1.3 – 1.6 – 1.9 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.9, unchanged at #14, 6+). Similarly-formatted/iHeartMedia-owned KVET-AM “1300 AM The Zone” has lost four-tenths in November/December (.9 – .8 – .5, #24 to #25, 6+).

In addition to regaining the half-share it surrendered in November (9.3 – 8.8 – 9.3, 6+), University of Texas at Austin-owned news/talk KUT (+2.0 in October) is #1 the third month in a row. KUT’s shifts in 2019 include: +1.6 (January); -.6 (February); +.7 (to 9.5, 6+, March); -2.0 (April); -1.6 (June); +.9 (July); +1.2 (August); -.6 (September); +2.0 (October); -.5 (November); and +.5 (December).

Austin Music Formats – Down four-tenths in October/November (5.5 – 5.1 – 5.1, 6+), Entercom adult contemporary KKMJ “Majic 95.5 Better Music for a Better Workday answers with a December +1.2 to 6.3 (sixth to third), its best 6+-stat since July (6.3, as well). By way of comparison, “Majic” notched a 7.4 (6+) in December 2018. Fully recapturing the nine-tenths it squandered in November (5.1 – 4.2 – 5.1, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KASE “Austin’s #1 For New Country” jumps from ninth to sixth. November’s 4.2 was the lowest 6+-showing for KASE since “Holiday” 2018’s 3.7. One-tenth ahead of KASE and steady in fifth-place is co-owned/similarly-formatted KVET-FM. A combined +2.2 in September/October (3.3 – 5.0 – 5.5, 6+), “98.1 The Austin Texas Original” is down three-tenths in November/December (5.5 – 5.3 – 5.2, 6+). September’s 5.5 was its best 6+-showing since May, when KVET-FM gained nine-tenths to 5.8 (6+). The market’s other country FM, Genuine Austin Radio-owned KOKE-FM, was a collective -1.5 (or a roughly 58% loss of its 6+ AQH share) in four straight down or flat trends (2.6 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.1, 6+). With a December increase of one-tenth to 1.2 (6+), “Austin’s Country Alternative” ends the slide and re-enters the top twenty (#21 to #20). In six consecutive positive or neutral trends, Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KLJA “Amor 107.7” has tripled (+1.4) its 6+ AQH-share (.7 – .8 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 2.1, 6+) and advances from #17 to #15. The three most recent shifts by iHeartMedia CHR KHFI are: -.7 (October); +1.2 (November); and now -1.1 in December (5.2 – 4.5 – 5.7 – 4.6, 6+) as “96.7 Kiss-FM Austin’s #1 Hit Music Station” slips from fourth to eighth. “Kiss” was a combined +.6 in August/September (4.6 – 4.8 – 5.2, 6+); October’s 4.5 was its lowest 6+-stat since January’s 4.3. Emmis Austin Radio Broadcasting Company adult hits KBPA “103.5 Bob-FM” is a collective -1.5 via six straight decreases (9.3 – 9.2 – 8.7 – 8.4 – 8.1 – 7.9 – 7.8, 6+). After six consecutive months at #1, “Bob” is in the runner-up slot the third time in a row. This is its lowest 6+-showing for “Bob” since October 2018 (7.8, as well); June’s 9.3 was its best 6+ stat since “Holiday” 2018 (also 9.3). Following five successive gains for an overall +3.0, more than doubling its 6+ AQH share (2.8 – 3.1 – 4.2 – 4.5 – 5.0 – 5.8, 6+), Crista Ministries contemporary Christian KFMK “Spirit 105.9” drops one-tenth to 5.7 (third to fourth, 6+).

Raleigh

Spoken-Word Formats – A gain of one-tenth (5.6 – 5.7, 6+) is sufficient to boost iHeartMedia news/talk WTKK “106.1 Stay Connected” from eighth to sixth. Curtis Media Group news/talk WPTF “News Radio 680” is up three-tenths in November/December (1.0 – 1.1 – 1.3, 6+) and repeats at #19.

A collective +1.0 in three straight spikes (2.1 – 2.5 – 2.9 – 3.1, 6+), Capitol Broadcasting sports talk WCMC “99.9 The Fan” drops three-tenths to 2.8 (flat at #14, 6+). September’s increase halted five straight down or flat moves that resulted in a loss of three tenths (2.4 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.1, 6+).

Continuing an alternating down/up pattern that commenced in February, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill news/talk WUNC “91.5 North Carolina Public Radio” (steady in third-place) has a topline of: 7.5 – 7.3 – 7.4 – 7.0 – 7.8 – 7.5 – 8.5 – 7.4 – 7.5 – 6.5 – 6.8 (6+). August 2019’s 8.5 was its best 6+-stat since 8.8 in August 2018.

Raleigh Music Formats – Reaching the market from Greensboro, iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMAG “99.5 The Best Variety of the 80s, 90s, & Today” erupts with a +1.8 to 2.2 (6+), cracking Raleigh’s top twenty (#15). Immediately prior to Raleigh’s December sweep, WMAG had lost two-tenths in four straight down or flat moves (.6 – .6 – .4 – .4 – .4, 6+). Improving by seven-tenths each are Radio One gospel WNNL “The Light 103.9” (ninth to fifth) and Radio Network Training contemporary Christian WRTP “His Radio” (#19 to #17). “The Light” is a collective +1.7 in three straight gains and crosses the six-share level (4.5 – 5.2 – 5.5 – 6.2, 6+). Meanwhile, “His Radio” has doubled (+.9) its 6+-stat in November/December (.9 – 1.1 – 1.8, 6+), posting its best 6+-stat (1.8) since March (1.9). In addition to being up one-half share in November/December (8.2 – 8.3 – 8.7, 6+), Radio One urban AC WFXC is #1 the fourth month in a row. “Foxy – Today’s R&B and Classic Soul” spent 12 consecutive survey periods on top; had an August-only stay at #2; and returned to #1 in September. Its August gain of two-tenths ended six straight down or flat sweeps that resulted in an overall -2.8 (11.0 – 9.9 – 9.5 – 9.5 – 9.1 – 8.8 – 8.2, 6+). Recent WFXC (6+) fluctuations include: +1.1 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.1 (January 2019); -1.1 (February); -.6 (July); and -.6 (October). January’s +1.1 took WFXC to 11.0, its highest 6+-stat in the PPM-era. The market’s (6+) country share deflates by -1.1 as Curtis Media Group’s WQDR “Today’s Best Country 94.7 QDR” falters by six-tenths (seventh to eighth) and iHeartMedia’s WNCB “B-93.9 #1 For New Country” loses one-half share (3.4 – 2.9, flat at #12, 6+). As a result of four successive setbacks, WQDR is a collective -1.6 (6.8 – 6.5 – 6.3 – 5.8 – 5.2, 6+). When WNCB sputtered by seven-tenths in November, it halted three successive improvements that yielded a +1.4 (2.7 – 2.9 – 3.5 – 4.1, 6+). A loss of nine-tenths by WNCB cluster-mate WRDU (6.0 – 5.1, 6+) sends “Classic Rock 100.7” from fifth to ninth with its lowest 6+-stat (5.1) since July 2018’s 4.7. On the heels of November’s +1.3 to 7.5, its strongest 6+-stat since February’s 7.8, Radio One urban contemporary WQOK “K-97.5” forfeits seven-tenths to 6.8 (second to third, 6+). Curtis Media Group adult hits WBBB  has its third decrease in a row for an overall -1.5 (6.8 – 6.3 – 5.9 – 5.3, sixth to seventh, 6+) and “96.1 BBB Your Life – Your Music” logs its softest 6+-stat (5.3) since March (5.0). Despite gaining two-tenths to .8 (6+), thus snapping four consecutive down or flat reports that led to a loss of two-tenths (.8 – .7 – .7 – .6 – .6, 6+), North Carolina Central University-owned WNCU “Jazz Radio 90.7” downshifts from #21 to #22.

Indianapolis

Spoken-Word Formats – Replacing September/October’s -.7 (6.5 – 6.3 – 5.8, 6+) with a November/December +.9 (5.8 – 6.4 – 6.7, 6+), Emmis news/talk WIBC “Indy’s Mobile News 93.1” jumps from fifth to fourth. Recent WIBC shifts include: -.9 (“Holiday” 2018); +.9 (January 2019); +.9 (February); -.8 (March); -1.2 (April); +.9 (June); +.5 (August); -.5 (October); and +.6 (November).

Following three consecutive increases that yielded a +1.2 (1.7 – 2.5 – 2.6 – 2.9, 6+), Emmis’ WFNI “The Fan – Indy’s Sports Center” loses one-tenth (2.8, 6+) and one ranker (#13 to #14). Flat at #18, iHeartMedia-owned WNDE “Indy’s Sports Station” has a June 2019 through December 2019 topline of: 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.3 – .9 (6+).

The July 2019 through December 2019 alternating up/down pattern by Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting news/talk WFYI is: 4.9 – 5.3 – 4.8 – 5.2 – 4.7 – 4.8 (flat at #8, 6+).

Indianapolis Music Formats – Not only does Emmis adult contemporary WYXB replicate November’s +1.4 (7.4 – 8.8 – 10.2, 6+), “B-105.7” progresses from second to first. WYXB was +.9 in three straight June through September gains (7.4 – 7.8 – 8.0 – 8.3, 6+) and then -.9 in October. This (10.2) is the first time “B-105.7” has reached double-digits (6+) since “Holiday” 2018’s 16.4. Knocked out of the top spot after 11 months in a row there and segueing to #2 is Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK “Classic Hits 104.5,” which is -3.1 via three straight setbacks  (11.1 – 10.4 – 10.2 – 8.0, 6+). WJJK’s 11.1 (July and September) represents the highest 6+-share in the station’s PPM-history, eclipsing April’s 10.2. Six straight ratings periods on top, “Classic Hits 104.5” slipped to third in “Holiday” 2018 but returned to #1 in January. Among WJJK’s dramatic 2019 fluctuations are: +2.9 (January); -.7 (February); -.6 (March); +1.7 (April); +1.4 (July); -1.1 (August); +1.1 (September); -.7 (October); and -2.2 (December). Up one full-share in December, iHeartMedia-owned classic rock WFBQ “Q-95 Rocks” is in an alternating down/up pattern that commenced in June: 6.7 – 5.9 – 6.4 – 6.3 – 6.9 – 6.1 – 7.1 (sixth to third, 6+). Jumping six-tenths each are Sarkes Tarzian triple A WTTS “92.3 Experience The Music” (#11 to #10) and Cumulus Media-owned WNDX “X-93.9 Indy’s Rock Station” (unchanged at #12). WTTS nets a +1.2 in four successive up or flat trends (2.7 – 3.1 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.9, 6+). December’s 3.6 by WNDX is three times greater than its 1.2 (6+) in April when it was CHR WYRG. Hot AC cluster-mate WNTR “107.9 The Mix,” which had been trending 2.9 – 3.3 – 2.9 (September – October – November, 6+), records a half-share increase to 3.4 (6+) and continues at #13. The market’s (6+) country share takes a -2.2 hit, nearly equally divided between Emmis-owned WLHK “Country 97.1 Hank” (7.4 – 6.2, -1.2, fourth to sixth, 6+) and Cumulus Media’s WFMS “95.5 The Country Station” (7.6 – 6.6, -1.0, third to fifth, 6+). “Hank” was up one-tenth in November, after its October +1.3 vaporized August/September’s -1.2 (7.2 – 7.1 – 6.0, 6+). WFMS erupted with a +1.1 in November, following October’s -.8 to 6.5, its lowest 6+-stat since 6.1 in “Holiday” 2018. Anchored in ninth-place, Entercom CHR WZPL “99.5 ZPL” is a cumulative -2.0 as a result of six successive decreases (6.2 – 6.0 – 5.8 – 4.9 – 4.7 – 4.4 – 4.2, 6+). After posting a 3.4 (6+) in June, Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WKLU is unlisted the sixth month in a row.

Milwaukee

Spoken-Word Formats – A November -1.8 by Good Karma Brands’ news/talk WTMJ (Packers, Bucks) is followed by a December decrease half that magnitude (6.6 – 5.7, -.9, 6+), as “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” slips from fifth to sixth. WTMJ was a combined +1.3 in September/October (7.1 – 7.5 – 8.4, 6+) and had an October-only stay at #1. In three straight spikes, iHeartMedia’s WISN gained one-half share (4.6 – 4.7 – 5.0 – 5.1, 6+), but “News/Talk 1130” falters by three-tenths in December to 4.8 (eighth to ninth, 6+).

One-tenth is the dominant theme for four Milwaukee sports talk stations. Down three-tenths in November, iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game – Milwaukee’s Sports Talk That Rocks” is up one-tenth (1.3 – 1.4, #16 to #15, 6+). Good Karma Brands’ WKTI “94.5 ESPN” posts a one-tenth increase the second straight month (.7 – .8 – .9, 6+) and advances from #20 to #19. Meanwhile, Entercom’s WSSP “Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” returns November’s one-tenth gain (.8 – .7, -.1, 6+) and exits the top twenty (#20 to #22). In back-to-back sweeps, iHeartMedia’s WOKY “The Big 920” is down by one-tenth (.7 – .6 – .5, #22 to #24, 6+). WSSP doubled (+.4) its 6+ AQH stat in successive spikes of … one-tenth each (.4 – .5 – .6 – .7 – .8, 6+).

Five positive or neutral sweeps in succession by WUWM yield a +1.8 (3.0 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.5 – 4.4 – 4.8, 6+) as the University of Wisconsin news/talk station progresses from tenth to ninth. Following four consecutive up or flat reports in which Wisconsin Public Radio news/talk WHAD doubled (+.8) its 6+ AQH share (.8 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.4 – 1.6, 6+), it surrenders three-tenths to 1.3 (#15 to #18, 6+).

Milwaukee Music Formats – Down six-tenths in September/October (5.8 – 5.4 – 5.2, 6+), Milwaukee Radio Alliance adult contemporary WLDB roars back with a November/December +1.6 (5.2  – 5.7 – 6.8, sixth to fourth, 6+). “B-93.3” crosses the six-share level (6.8) for the first time since February’s 6.4. Entercom hot AC WMYX “99.1 The Mix” racks up an increase of seven-tenths in back-to-back sweeps (6.2 – 6.9 – 7.6, fourth to second, 6+). The last time “Mix” (7.6) reached the seven-share level was in November 2015 (7.0, 6+). In addition to WMYX, Milwaukee Radio Alliance classic hits-oldies WZTI “Fonz FM – Milwaukee’s Pop, Soul, & Rock ‘N Roll” improves by seven-tenths (#18 to #14) and has nearly tripled (+1.2) its 6-stat in four straight sweeps without a loss (.7 – .9 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.9, 6+). An overall -1.5 as a result of five straight reports without an increase (5.5 – 5.4 – 5.0 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.0, 6+), Entercom CHR WXSS “103.7 Kiss-FM” pulls the plug with a +.4 to 4.4 (unchanged at #11, 6+). By gaining two-tenths to 5.3 (steady in eighth-place, 6+), iHeartMedia urban contemporary WKKV “V-100.7” halts four straight sweeps without an increase that resulted in a net loss of three-tenths (5.4 – 5.4 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 5.1, 6+). Notwithstanding that it’s -1.8 via three consecutive down or flat moves (9.6 – 8.3 – 7.8 – 7.8, 6+), classic hits-oldies sibling WRIT “95.7 Big FM Milwaukee’s Greatest Hits” repeats at #1. WRIT spent four months in a row in the lead before segueing to the runner-up slot in October. Whereas “Holiday” 2018’s 11.5 is the strongest 6+-stat for any Milwaukee station since WRIT’s 11.6 in “Holiday” 2017, this (7.8) is its lowest 6+-figure since December 2018’s 7.7. Having spent 43 consecutive ratings periods at #1, “Big FM” shifted to #2 in October 2018. Recent (6+) moves include: +3.8 (“Holiday” 2018); – 1.9 (January 2019); +.6 (February); -.8 (March); +.7 (April); -1.5 (May); +.8 (June); -1.3 (October); and -.5 (November). A combined -.7 in November/December (7.2 – 7.0 – 6.5, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WMIL “FM 106.1 Milwaukee’s Best Country” dips from third to fifth with its lowest 6+-stat (6.5) since June (5.9). In three straight spikes, Saga Communications’ WHQG recorded an overall +1.4 (4.1 – 4.4 – 5.0 – 5.5, 6+), but “102.9 The Hog Everything That Rocks” drops one-tenth to 5.4 (flat at #7, 6+). Co-owned WKLH “96.5 Milwaukee’s Hometown Rock” is down or flat the fifth time in a row for a -1.4 (8.4 – 7.8 – 7.8 – 7.6 – 7.3 – 7.0, second to third, 6+).

Nashville

Spoken-Word Formats – Without a loss the past six sweeps for a +1.7 (3.1 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 4.2 – 4.8, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” falters by one-tenth to 4.7 (6+) – but – manages to crack the top ten (#11 to #9). As a result of four consecutive improvements, iHeartMedia news/talk WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” is +1.0 (1.4 – 1.5 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 2.4, #17 to #16, 6+) and reaches the two-share level (2.4) for the first time in more than four years (2.0, October 2015).

Four straight spikes by Cumulus Media-owned sports talk WGFX (Tennessee Titans) netted a +2.4 (2.7 – 2.9 – 3.2 – 4.7 – 5.1, 6+), but “104.5 The Zone” is a combined -1.0 in November/December (5.1 – 5.0 – 4.1, 6+) and departs the top ten (#9 to #12). Cromwell Group-owned/similarly-formatted WPRT “102.5 The Game” (Predators) repeats November’s 6+ AQH share and market rank (1.1, #20).

Off a combined -1.5 in October/November (6.9 – 5.9 – 5.4, 6+), following August/September’s +1.8 (5.1 – 6.2 – 6.9, 6+), Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM “NPR News and Classical Music” regains four-tenths to 5.8 (sixth to fourth, 6+).

Nashville Music Formats – The three-tenths (6+) advantage Midwest Communications adult hits WCJK “96.3 Jack FM Playing What We Want” held over adult contemporary cluster-mate WJXA “Mix 92.9 – Your Life, Your Music” in November flips to a 3.1-share lead for WJXA. An overall -2.3 in four straight negative moves (9.8 – 9.5 – 9.2 – 7.6 – 7.5, 6+), “Mix” expunges all but one-tenth of that shortfall with a +2.2 to 9.7 (second to first, 6+). Prior to October, “Mix” was on top five months in a row. Its just-concluded negative streak directly followed an overall +1.6 in three successive bumps (8.2 – 9.2 – 9.6 – 9.8, 6+). Eight recent (6+) WJXA fluctuations include: +3.2 (“Holiday” 2018); -3.5 (January 2019); -1.3 (February); -.5 (March); -.6 (April); +1.0 (May); -1.6 (October); and +2.2 (December). WJXA’s 14.1 (“Holiday” 2018) is the highest 6+-share by any Nashville outlet since its 14.4 in “Holiday” 2017. Meanwhile, Nashville’s version of “Jack” is -2.3 in November/December (8.9 – 7.8 – 6.6, first to second, 6+). This immediately trails its overall +2.1 in three successive upticks (6.8 – 8.0 – 8.1 – 8.9, 6+). October marked WCJK’s first time at #1 since April, when it logged an 8.4 (6+). Advancing from #13 to #11, Cromwell alternative WBUZ “102.9 The Buzz” crosses the four-share mark and is an overall +2.0 in three consecutive improvements (2.4 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 4.4, 6+). Substituting November’s loss of seven-tenths with December’s increase of six-tenths (4.6, 6+), Cumulus Media urban AC WQQK “92-Q” re-enters the top ten (#12 to #10). Prior to the December sweep, “92-Q” was a collective -1.5 in three decreases  in succession (5.5 – 5.2 – 4.7 – 4.0, 6+). That immediately followed an overall +1.3 via four successive gains (4.2 – 4.4 – 4.6 – 4.8 – 5.5, 6+). The contemporary Christian arena has noteworthy December 2019 growth as Educational Media Foundation’s WLVU “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” is up six-tenths (2.4, #18 to #16), while both Salem Media Group’s WFFH “The Fish” (flat at #14) and WAY Media’s WAYM “WAY-FM” (#16 to #15) expand by one-half share. After posting three improvements in a row for a collective +1.5 (2.0 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 3.5, 6+), WLVU was a combined -1.7 in October/November (3.5 – 2.6 – 1.8, 6+). Having lost approximately 47% (-2.1) of its 6+-share as a result of four down or flat moves in a row (4.5 – 4.4 – 3.2 – 2.4 – 2.4, 6+), WFFH is up nine-tenths in November/December (2.8 – 3.3, 6+). The just-concluded negative streak directly follows a collective +1.0 via four straight increases (3.5 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.1 – 4.5, 6+). Owing to four straight bumps, WAYM is an overall +1.8 (1.1 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 2.4 – 2.9, 6+). In five consecutive decreases, iHeartMedia’s WNRQ “105.9 The Rock” is a cumulative -3.7 (7.8 – 7.6 – 6.5 – 6.2 – 5.2 – 4.1, 6+) and fades from the top ten (#7 to #12). Prior to November, WNRQ last fell below a six-share (6+) just over two years ago (5.7, October 2017). Down seven-tenths in November and December (6.5 – 5.8 – 5.1, 6+), urban contemporary sibling WUBT “101.1 The Beat” slips from fifth to sixth. In three straight up or flat trends “The Beat” had gained nine-tenths (5.6 – 5.6 – 6.0 – 6.5, 6+). On the heels of October/November’s +1.6 (4.5 – 5.0 – 6.1, 6+), Cumulus Media’s country-formatted WSM-FM “95.5 Nash Icon” relinquishes six-tenths to 5.5 (fourth to fifth, 6+). Entering the October sweep, “Nash Icon” had lost an overall seven-tenths in four straight negative or neutral trends (5.2 – 5.0 – 5.0 – 4.7 – 4.5, 6+). Without an increase the fifth time in a row for a collective -1.3 (6.2 – 5.6 – 5.4 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 4.9, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WSIX “The Big 98 – Nashville’s #1 for New Country” remains in seventh-place. This comes immediately after WSIX was +2.7 in seven consecutive up or flat sweeps (3.5 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 5.0 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 6.2, 6+). Off one-half share (2.6 – 2.1, 6+), Midwest Communications CHR WNFN “106.7 Nashville’s New Hit Music” dips from #15 to #18. After five straight reports without a loss for a net gain of nine-tenths (5.3 – 5.3 – 5.5 – 5.7 – 6.2 – 6.2, 6+), iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WRVW “107.5 The River” drops one-tenth to 6.1 (6+) but remains in third-place.

Providence

Spoken-Word Formats – Up two-tenths in November to 3.0 (6+), after September/October’s loss of six-tenths (3.4 – 2.9 – 2.8, 6+), Cumulus Media-owned WPRO-AM “News Talk 630” forfeits three-tenths to 2.7 (eighth to ninth, 6+). A November increase of one-tenth by iHeartMedia news/talk WHJJ halted eight straight down or flat moves that accounted for an approximately 75% reduction (-1.6) of its 6+-AQH share (2.1 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.3 – .9 – .9 – .7 – .5, 6+); however, “Providence’s News, Traffic, and Weather” falters by one-tenth to .4 (#18, 6+). As a result of seven consecutive down or flat reports, Cumulus Media’s WPRV “AM 790 Talk & Business” has lost four-tenths (.7 – .5 – .4 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .3, #20 to #19, 6+).

Anchored in seventh-place is Entercom sports talker WVEI, which continues an alternating down/up pattern that began in February: 4.1- 3.6 – 4.0 – 3.5 – 3.6 – 3.1 – 3.4 – 3.3 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 4.1 (6+). July’s 3.1 is its lowest 6+-stat since March 2018’s 2.8.

Having doubled (+.9) its 6+ AQH share in October/November (.9 – 1.4 – 1.8, 6+), iHeartMedia Boston news – talk hybrid WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” sputters by three-tenths in December to 1.5 (#12 to #14, 6+).

Even though WGBH Educational Foundation Boston news/talk WGBH drops one-tenth (2.9 – 2.8, 6+), it progresses from ninth to eighth. A November gain of two-tenths by The Wheeler School’s news/talk outlet WELH suspended six consecutive sweeps without an increase that accounted for a loss of six-tenths (2.0 – 2.0 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.4, 6+). In December though, WELH erodes by -1.3 to .3 (#13 to #19, 6+).

Providence Music Formats – Off three-tenths in October/November (2.2 – 2.1 – 1.9, 6+), Townsquare Media CHR WFHN responds with a +.8 to 2.7, its strongest 6+-stat since February’s 3.7; “Fun 107 The Southcoast’s #1 Hit Music Station” enters the top ten (#11 to #9). There’s a tie for the top spot between iHeartMedia-owned WHJY “94 HJY Providence’s Home of Rock & Roll” (8.7 – 9.3, +.6, #1 the fourth month in succession, 6+) and Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI “Lite Rock 105” (8.6 – 9.3, +.7, second to first, 6+). WHJY bounces back from October/November’s loss of six-tenths (9.3 – 9.2 – 8.7, 6+). After occupying the lead position three months in a row, WHJY shifted to the runner-up slot in August; “94 HJY” was +.7 in September. “Lite Rock” is up eight-tenths in November/December (8.5 – 8.6 – 9.3, 6+) and has its best 6+-showing since May (9.3, as well). By gaining one-half share to 8.3 (flat at #3, 6+), Hall Broadcasting-owned WCTK “Cat Country 98.1” applies the brakes to three consecutive down or flat reports that led to an overall -1.5 (9.3 – 8.3 – 7.8 – 7.8, 6+). Entering the September sweep, “Cat Country 98.1” was a collective +1.7 in three straight improvements (7.6 – 8.5 – 8.6 – 9.3, 6+), with August’s 9.3 (#1, 6+) representing its highest 6+-share since 10.1 in July 2018. Ten recent (6+) shifts for iHeartMedia-owned hot AC WSNE “Coast 93.3” include: -1.0 (Holiday” 2018); +.5 (March); +.5 (May); -.7 (June); +1.4 (July); -.5 (August); +.5 (September); -.6 (October); +.6 (November); and -1.5 in December (5.7 – 4.2, flat at #6, 6+). Prior to June’s loss of seven-tenths, WSNE was a collective +1.2 in three consecutive improvements (3.8 – 4.3 – 4.5 – 5.0, 6+). Regressing by eight-tenths and six-tenths, respectively, are WSNE’s classic hits-oldies sibling WWBB “B-101” (flat at #5) and Cumulus Media CHR WPRO-FM “Today’s Hit Music PRO FM” (unchanged at #5). “B-101” is -1.0 in November/December with its lowest 6+-stat (6.6) since 6.0 in March. WPRO-FM has lost eight-tenths in three consecutive down or flat trends (7.0 – 7.0 – 6.8 – 6.2, 6+). Unlisted the sixth month in a row are Red Wolf Broadcasting Spanish tropical WKKB “Latina 100.3,” which posted a 1.2 in June (#16, 6+) and classic hits-oldies sibling WSKP “Good Times … Great Oldies” (.8, #19, June 2019, 6+).

Norfolk

Spoken-Word Formats – Nearly doubling (+1.0) its 6+-stat via five consecutive positive or neutral moves (1.2 – 1.4 – 1.8 – 2.2 – 2.2, 6+), Max Broadcast Group sports talk WVSP “ESPN Radio 94.1” repeats at #11.

Norfolk Music Formats – Roaring back from November’s -.8 with a December +2.6 (5.1 – 4.3 – 6.9, 6+), Entercom adult contemporary WWDE “101.3 2WD” advances from sixth to third with its best 6+-stat (6.9) since “Holiday” 2018’s 13.6. Max Broadcast Group’s similarly-formatted  WVBW “92.9 The Wave,” which logged four consecutive reports without a loss for a +1.7 (3.4 – 4.2 – 4.8 – 5.1 – 5.1, 6+), surrenders one-half share to 4.6 (fifth to sixth, 6+). Not only is Entercom urban AC WVKL #1 the 12^th consecutive month, “Smooth R&B from Yesterday & Today” notches a December +1.0 (11.7 – 12.7, 6+). When WVKL recorded a 9.1 (6+) in August, it was the first time since January 2014 (9.8) that the station failed to log double-digits (6+). “Smooth R&B from Yesterday & Today” had been the market pacesetter 25 successive survey periods before segueing to the runner-up slot in “Holiday” 2018. Its August 2018 15.5 holds the record for highest 6+-performance by any Norfolk station in the PPM-era. Six successive down or flat trends by iHeartMedia rhythmic hot AC WMOV resulted in a two-thirds loss (-.7) of its 6+-stat (2.1 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.4, 6+); however, “MOViN’ 107.7” posts a December increase of one-half share to 1.9 (6+) and climbs from #15 to #13. Without a loss the fourth time in succession for a net gain of one-half share (1.6 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 2.1, 6+), urban-rhythmic oldies sibling WHBT “92.1 The Beat” carries on at #12. To say it’s been a wild ride lately for Saga Communications’ WNOR “FM 99 Rocks” would be quite an understatement. Its +3.2 via six consecutive positive or neutral reports (5.9 – 6.0 – 6.0 – 6.8 – 6.8 – 8.9 – 9.1, 6+) totally evaporates owing to three consecutive setbacks totaling a -3.7 ( (9.1 – 7.5 – 7.2 – 5.4, fourth to fifth, 6+). September’s 9.1 (6+) marked the first time in the PPM-era that WNOR appeared in print with a 6+-share reaching the nine-share level (6+). On the heels of November’s robust +1.6, co-owned WAFX “106.9 The Fox – Hampton Roads’ Classic Rock” forfeits six-tenths (7.3 – 6.7, second to fourth, 6+). November’s 7.3 represents the highest 6+-stat since June’s 8.2 for “The Fox,” which was a combined +2.1 in October/November (5.2 – 5.7 – 7.3, 6+). Prior to September’s 5.2, WAFX last fell below a six-share (6+) in December 2018 (5.5). The alternating up/down pattern that began in June by Max Broadcast Group’s WGH-FM “New Country 97.3 The Eagle” includes: 4.5 – 4.7 – 4.1 – 5.0 – 4.2 – 4.3 – 3.5 (sixth to eighth, 6+). Similarly, iHeartMedia urban contemporary WOWI is in an alternating July 2019 through December 2019 up/down pattern (8.0 – 8.3 – 7.5 – 7.8 – 7.3 – 7.4, 6+) with “103 Jamz” continuing in the runner-up slot.

Jacksonville

Spoken-Word Formats – In addition to being -2.3 as a result of three straight setbacks (10.4 – 9.4 – 9.1 – 8.1, 6+) Apollo Global Management/Cox Media Group news/talk WOKV-FM segues from first to second; “104.5 Jacksonville’s News, Weather, and Traffic” had been the market leader the past five months.  

After more than quintupling (+.9) its 6+ AQH through four straight gains (.2 – .5 – .7 – .9 – 1.1, 6+), iHeartMedia sports talk WFXJ “930 The Game – Jacksonville’s Sports Leader” stumbles by one-tenth to 1.0 (#17 to #18, 6+).

Public radio news/talk WJCT forfeits one-tenth to 3.5 (6+), thus snapping three improvements in a row that accounted for a net gain of eight-tenths (2.8 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.6, unchanged at #11, 6+).

Jacksonville Music Formats – Over and above being a collective +3.4 in three consecutive positive or neutral trends (7.4 – 7.4 – 8.1 – 10.8, 6+), Renda Broadcasting adult contemporary WEJZ marches from second to first, outpointing December 2018’s 10.7 (6+) by one-tenth. Conversely, Apollo Global Management/Cox Media Group’s similarly-formatted WEZI “Easy 102.9” is an overall -2.1 in four successive decreases (6.9 – 6.1 – 5.8 – 5.2 – 4.8, 6+) and remains in seventh-place. This (4.8) is its lowest 6+-stat since March (4.5). Within 4.1 – 4.7 range (6+) the past five survey periods (4.3 – 4.7 – 4.5 – 4.1 – 4.5, 6+), Renda Broadcasting’s WGNE “99.9 Gator Country” falters by eight-tenths to 3.7, its lowest 6+-stat since June’s 3.5, and continues at #9. Meanwhile, similarly-formatted/iHeartMedia-owned WQIK “99.1 Jacksonville’s Country” is a collective +1.6 in four straight positive spikes (5.4 – 5.6 – 6.5 – 6.7 – 7.0, fourth to third, 6+). Three improvements in a row by Apollo Global Management/Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WJGL delivered a net gain of seven-tenths (6.5 – 6.7 – 6.8 – 7.2, 6+), but “Eagle 96.9” surrenders one-half share in December to 6.7 (third to fourth). Anchored in seventh-place, CHR sibling WAPE “Jacksonville’s #1 Hit Music Station” is an overall -1.8 as a result of five down or flat moves in a row (6.6 – 5.9 – 5.6 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 4.8, 6+). Also in five straight downturns, co-owned alternative WXXJ “X-10.5” is off seven-tenths (2.9 – 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.4 – 2.2, unchanged at #14, 6+). After being without a loss the past four reports for a +1.0 (4.6 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 5.4 – 5.6, 6+), iHeartMedia urban AC WSOL “V-101.5” drops one-tenth to 5.5 (flat at #5, 6+). November’s 5.6 was its best 6+-stat since May’s 5.7. Down or flat the sixth consecutive ratings period for a net loss of nine-tenths (3.6 – 3.4 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 2.9 – 2.7 – 2.7, 6+), cluster-mate WWJK “107.3 Planet Radio – Jacksonville’s Rock Station” repeats at #13.

West Palm Beach

Spoken-Word Formats – A combined -1.1 in November/December (4.0 – 3.7 – 2.9, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WJNO “1290 The Palm Beaches’ News & Talk” drops from sixth to ninth. Prior to September, WJNO was an overall +2.0 in six successive sweeps without a loss (2.0 – 2.3 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 3.1 – 3.7 – 4.0, 6+). Despite netting seven-tenths via three spikes in a row (2.0 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.7, 6+), co-owned news/talk WZZR “Real Radio 94.3 – Real Talk For The Palm Beaches” downshifts from ninth to tenth. Off seven-tenths (2.1 – 1.4, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting’s WFTL “News Talk 850,” slides from #13 to #17. October’s decrease of nine-tenths interrupted four straight gains that accounted for a +1.0 (1.7 – 2.0 – 2.4 – 2.6 – 2.7, 6+). Logging a .7 (6+) the third time in the last four reports (.7 – .8 – .7 – .7, 6+), iHeartMedia Miami news/talk WIOD “610 News Radio” drops from #22 to #23.

After squandering one-tenth in back-to-back reports (.6 – .5 – .4, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” repeats November’s AQH share and market rank (.4, #24, 6+). A “no-show” 15 sweeps in a row, iHeartMedia-owned sports talk WBZT “1230 The Zone” resurfaced in October and, for the third time in succession, records a .1 (#25, 6+).

Fully erasing October/November’s -.8 (3.0 – 2.8 – 2.2, 6+) with December’s +.8 to 3.0 (6+), Dade County School Board news/talk WLRN re-enters the top ten (#11 to #8).

West Palm Beach Music Formats – A robust +1.3 (.3 – 1.6, 6+) enables Glades Media’s Spanish contemporary WWRF “AM 1380 Radio Fiesta” to rocket onto the top twenty at #13. Advancing from third to second with its best 6+-showing (6.3) since July’s 6.6, Hubbard Broadcasting adult contemporary WEAT-FM is +1.9 via its third straight increase (4.4 – 4.6 – 5.6 – 6.3, 6+). “Sunny 107.9” was a -2.2 in August/September (6.6 – 5.1 – 4.4, 6+). Prior to September, the last time WEAT fell below a five-share (6+) was in October 2018 (4.6). An overall -1.8 in four downturns in succession (7.4 – 6.9 – 6.8 – 5.8 – 5.6, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned/similarly-formatted WOLL “Today’s Kool 105.5” slips from second to third. WOLL was -.8 in July (7.2 – 6.4, 6+) and +1.0 in August to 7.4, its best 6+-showing since July 2016 (7.5). Shaking off November’s loss of six-tenths with a December improvement of the same magnitude (9.2 – 8.6 – 9.2, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WRMF is #1 the 12^th time in a row. Prior to November, “Variety from the 90s and Now” was an overall +1.4 as a result of three straight gains (7.8 – 8.3 – 8.5 – 9.2, 6+). Whereas 7.8 (July) is WRMF’s lowest 6+-share and first time below an eight-share (6+) since “Holiday” 2016 (7.7), 11.2 (March) is its best 6+-showing since November 2017 (11.2, as well). Down three-tenths in October/November (3.4 – 3.2 – 3.1, 6+), iHeartMedia classic rock WKGR “98.7 The Gater” dials up a +.6 to 3.7 (seventh to sixth, 6+). Sputtering by eight-tenths each are Hubbard Broadcasting’s WIRK “New Country 103.1” (fourth to fifth) and iHeartMedia Spanish contemporary WRLX “Mia 92.1” (#10 to #13). WIRK’s four most recent fluctuations are -.5 (September); +.9 (October); +1.5 in November; and -.8 in December (3.6 – 3.1 – 4.0 – 5.5 – 4.7, 6+). Prior to November’s 5.5, “New Country” last crossed the five-share threshold (6+) in August 2018 (5.1). Meanwhile, “Mia” is an overall -2.1 as a result of five sweeps in succession without an increase – a roughly 57% loss of its 6+-share (3.7 – 3.7 – 2.7 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 1.6, 6+). After nearly tripling (+1.3) its 6+-stat with four straight gains (.7 – .8 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 2.0, 6+), Moody Bible Institute gospel WRMB “89.3 Moody Radio” falters by one-half share to 1.5 (flat at #15, 6+). While unchanged at #11, WAY Media contemporary Christian WAYF “WAY-FM” is off three-tenths to 1.9 (6+), thus halting four consecutive up or flat reports that yielded one-half share (1.7 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 2.2, 6+).

Greensboro

Spoken-Word Formats – After posting a +.5 (August); -1.3 (September); +.6 (October); and -.5 (November), iHeartMedia news/talk WPTI “94.5 Your News, Talk, & Sports Station” repeats November’s AQH share and market rank (3.1, ninth, 6+).

In back-to-back sweeps, Curtis Media Group sports talk WSJS “Triad Sports” is off by one-tenth (.9 – .8 – .7, flat at #15, 6+).

Locked at #13 the past 19 ratings periods, Wake Forest University news/talk WFDD “88.5 Public Radio for the Piedmont” repeats November’s 2.3 (6+) but moves to #12. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill news/talk WUNC answers November’s loss of one-half share with a December gain of three-tenths (1.2 – 1.5, 6+) and is steady at #14.

Greensboro Music Formats – Carrying on in third-place, iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMAG is an overall +3.9 via three upticks in a row (6.3 – 6.4 – 7.5 – 10.2, 6+) and reaches double-digits (10.2, 6+) for the first time since “Holiday” 2018 (16.5). An increase of one-half share enables Dick Broadcasting classic rock WKRR “Rock 92” to cross the seven-share level (6.6 – 7.1, fifth to fourth, 6+). Despite dropping one-tenth to 10.9 (6+), Entercom urban AC WQMG “97.1 QMG The Best R&B and Old School” progresses from second to first. WQMG was a combined +2.1 in October/November (8.9 – 10.3 – 11.0, 6+) and had its best 6+-stat (11.0, November 2019) since November 2018 (11.4). On top the past four months, adult hits sibling WSMW “98.7 Simon Says We Play Everything” erodes by -1.2 to 10.7 (6+) and trades place with WQMG. “Simon” had been an overall +3.1 as a result of four up or flat sweeps in a row (8.8 – 9.5 – 10.9 – 10.9 – 11.9, 6+), hitting the eleven-share level (11.9) for the first time since February 2018’s 11.4. Among its 2019 (6+) fluctuations are: +.9 (January); -.6 (February); +.9 (March); -1.6 (April); +1.1 (May); +.5 (June); -1.0 (July); +.7 (August); +1.4 (September); +1.0 (November); and -1.2 (December). Faltering by six-tenths each and remaining at #7 and #8, respectively, are iHeartMedia-owned WTQR “Q-104.1 – #1 for New Country” (5.6 – 5.0, 6+) and Entercom’s similarly-programmed WPAW “93.1 The Wolf” (5.5 – 4.9, 6+). In November, “Q-104.1” was up four-tenths, while “The Wolf” improved by three-tenths; WTQR was -.7 in October and WPAW was -1.6. Over the course of the last 20 sweeps (June 2018 through December 2019), WTQR has triumphed over WPAW 12 times (June 2018, July, August, September, October, November, “Holiday” 2018, January 2019, May, July, November, and December); WPAW has come out on top six times (December 2018, February 2019, March, April, August, and September; and there have been two ties (June 2019 and October 2019). Four setbacks in a row have carved the 6+-share of iHeartMedia-owned rocker WVBZ precisely in half (4.8 – 4.0 – 3.5 – 2.8 – 2.4, 6+) as “105.7 – Man Up” exits the top ten (#10 to #11). This directly follows five straight upticks that netted a +2.3 (2.5 – 3.2 – 3.7 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.8, 6+).

Memphis

Spoken-Word Formats – In addition to echoing November’s 4.8 (6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WREC “600 AM – Memphis’ News, Traffic, & Weather” continues in eighth-place.

Even though it is an overall +1.2 through four successive sweeps without a loss (2.3 – 2.6 – 3.0 – 3.5 – 3.5, 6+), Entercom sports talk WMFS “ESPN Sports Radio” backshifts from #11 to #12. September’s increase halted seven consecutive down or flat trends that led to a collective -1.7 (4.0 – 4.0 – 3.9 – 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.0 – 2.3, 6+). Up or flat the past 14 sweeps for a net gain of three-tenths (.1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 -.1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .3 – .4 – .4, 6+), co-owned WMC-AM “ESPN 790” drops one-tenth to .3 (flat at #20, 6+).

Memphis Music Formats – Tacking on nine-tenths to November’s increase of two-tenths (3.7 – 3.9 – 4.8, 6+), Entercom hot AC WMC-FM  progresses from ninth to sixth. Entering the November sweep, “FM 100 Today’s Best Mix” was a collective -1.5 in three drops in succession (5.2 – 4.9 – 4.5 – 3.7, 6+). WMC-FM fell below a four-share (3.7, October, 6+) for the first time since April’s 3.8 (6+). Carrying on in the runner-up slot, Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO “103.5 The Best Mix of R&B” is up eight-tenths in November/December (7.1 – 7.3 – 7.9, 6+) and has its best 6+-stat (7.9) since May (8.7). Stuck on 10.5 (6+) in October and November, iHeartMedia urban AC KJMS regresses by eight-tenths to 9.7 (6+) but “V-101” is #1 the 14^th time in a row. Its October +1.0 eradicated August/September’s -.6 (10.1 – 9.8 – 9.5, 6+). Prior to June’s loss of six-tenths to 9.8 (6+), KJMS reached double-digits (6+) 14 successive ratings periods. “Holiday” 2018’s 12.8 is the highest 6+-share for “V-101” since December 2012 (13.5). It’s a mixed bag for co-owned WHRK. On the plus side, the urban contemporary outlet gains two-tenths to 7.5 (6+), thus suspending three successive decreases that led to a collective -2.1 (9.4 – 8.4 – 8.1 – 7.3, 6+). At the same time though, “K-97.1” – which was anchored in second-place the past six sweeps – segues to third. Gospel cluster-mate WHAL “Hallelujah 95.7 – Memphis’ Inspiration Station,” which gained nine-tenths in October/November (6.2 – 6.4 – 7.1, 6+), surrenders six-tenths to 6.5 (fourth to fifth, 6+). Unlisted since January 2016, North Mississippi Media Group’s WUBL resurfaced in print this past August. Off one-half share (1.4 – .9, 6+), Coldwell, Mississippi-licensed “Country Legends 95.3 The Rebel” slips from #15 to #18. Four straight sweeps without a loss aided Cumulus Media adult contemporary WKIM to more than double (+1.0) its 6+-stat (.7 – 1.2 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.7, 6+), but “98.9 The Bridge” forfeits three-tenths to 1.4 (steady at #14, 6+). Following five successive sweeps without a loss that yielded a +1.4 and delivering its best 6+-stat (4.8) since January’s 5.1 (3.4 – 3.4 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.8, 6+), co-owned WGKX “Today’s Best Country Kix 106” stumbles by four-tenths to 4.4 (sixth to eighth, 6+). As a result of three consecutive losses, Entercom’s similarly-formatted WLFP “94.1 The Wolf” lost eight-tenths (4.3 – 4.2 – 4.0 – 3.5, 6+); recaptured seven-tenths in October; but is off a combined six-tenths in November/December (4.2 – 3.7 – 3.6, #10 to #11, 6+). “Kix” and “The Wolf” were tied for ninth-place in October.

Hartford

Spoken-Word Formats – On the heels of November’s loss of eight-tenths, Entercom news/talk WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” sputters by another three-tenths (6.6 – 6.3, fourth to sixth, 6+). Mirroring November’s #13 finish, Red Wolf Broadcasting news/talk WDRC-AM “AM 1360 The Talk of Connecticut” posts a .7 (6+) the third month in succession. Anchored at #16, iHeartMedia’s WPOP “News Radio 1410” records a .1 (6+) the 19^th survey period in a row.

WPOP’s sports talk cluster-mate, WUCS “97.9 ESPN Hartford,” has a June 2019 through December 2019 topline of: 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 1.9 (6+) and continues at #12.

Within 4.2 – 4.7 range (6+) in each of the last nine survey periods (4.7 – 4.4 – 4.2 – 4.3 – 4.4 – 4.3 – 4.5 – 4.2 – 4.5, 6+), Connecticut Public Broadcasting Network news/talk WNPR “Connecticut’s Public Media Source for News & Ideas” carries on in ninth-place. In three straight down or flat trends, University of Massachusetts-owned WFCR “New England Public Radio” has lost more than 60% (-.7) of its 6+ AQH share (1.1 – .8 – .4 – .4, 6+) and is unchanged at #14.

Hartford Music Formats – Down a combined nine-tenths in October/November (10.7 – 10.1 – 9.8, 6+), Entercom adult contemporary WRCH “Lite 100.5” roars back with a +1.7 to 11.5 (6+) and is #1 the 42^nd consecutive time. Its August/September +1.3 (9.4 – 9.5 – 10.7, 6+) nearly negated June/July’s -1.4 (10.8 – 10.4 – 9.4, 6+). Eight recent (6+) WRCH shifts include: -6.9 (January); +1.0 (February); -1.0 (March); -1.3 (April); +1.0 (May); -1.0 (July); +1.2 (September); and +1.7 (December). “Holiday” 2018’s +5.6 was to 18.0, the strongest 6+-showing for any Hartford station since WRCH recorded an 18.3 in “Holiday” 2017. November’s 9.5 marked the fourth time in 2019 that WRCH was not in double-digits (6+). In its third up or flat move in a row, hot AC cluster-mate WTIC-FM “96.5 TIC-FM” is a collective +1.3 (6.1 – 6.2 – 6.2 – 7.3, 6+) and jumps from fifth to second with its best 6+-stat (7.3) since May (7.7). Despite picking up one-tenth to 5.8 (6+), thus halting four straight down or flat sweeps that accounted for a -1.4 (7.1 – 6.7 – 6.7 – 5.7, 6+), rhythmic CHR sibling WZMX “Hot 93.7” downshifts from sixth to seventh. Notching gains of seven-tenths each are iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WHCN “105.9 The River” (6.4, sixth to fourth, 6+) and its CHR cluster-mate WKSS “Kiss 95.7 All The Hits” (5.8, eighth to seventh, 6+). “The River” had been without an increase the past five survey periods for a collective -1.5 (7.2 – 7.2 – 6.1 – 6.1 – 5.8 – 5.7, 6+). Likewise, “Kiss” was an overall -1.8 in five straight down or flat reports (6.9 – 6.8 – 6.5 – 6.5 – 5.7 – 5.1, 6+). The recent rollercoaster ride for co-owned WWYZ “Country 92.5” includes August/September’s -.7 (7.9 – 7.2 – 7.2, 6+); October’s +.5 (7.7, 6+); November’s -1.0 (6.7, 6+); and December’s +.5 to 7.2 (steady at #3, 6+). Off eight-tenths in November/December (7.2 – 7.0 – 6.4, 6+), Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-FM “102.9 The Whale – Connecticut’s Classic Rock” drops from second to fourth. Classic hits-oldies sibling WNTY “Kool Radio – Good Times/Great Oldies” is without an increase the fifth time in a row for a net loss of two-tenths (.5 – .4 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .3, unchanged at #15, 6+). Entercom adult contemporary WMAS-FM, which ranked #12 in July (1.5, 6+), is unlisted the fifth consecutive month.

December PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round Three

December 2019 PPM Data – Information for the December 2019 ratings period has been released for Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Orlando, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Columbus. Nielsen Audio’s December 2019 survey period covered November 7 – December 4. Managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” from the PPM-markets below.

Portland

Spoken Word Formats – Unchanged in fourth-place, Alpha Media-owned news/talk KXL “FM News 101 – Stay Connected” is an overall +1.3 via five consecutive sweeps without a loss (4.1 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 5.1 – 5.2 – 5.4, 6+). Several recent KXL shifts include: -1.0 (March/April); +1.1 (May/June); -.7 (July); and +.6 (August). Up two-tenths as a result of three positive or neutral moves in a row (2.3 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.5, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KEX “News Radio 1190 – Depend On Us” climbs from #19 to #18. Alpha Media news/talk KUFO repeats November’s 6+ AQH share and market rank (1.3, #23). Thus far in 2019, “Freedom 970” has logged a 1.0 (6+) five times; a .9 (6+) five times; and a 1.3 (6+) twice. Salem Media Group’s KPAM “AM 860 The Answer” has a June 2019 through December 2019 topline of: .3 – .3 – .3 -. 3 – .5 – .4 – .4 (flat at #29, 6+).

Off two-tenths in November, Alpha Media sports talk KXTG “The Game” makes up half the deficit with a +.1 (1.6 – 1.7, 6+) and continues at #21. Without a loss the past four months for a collective half-share gain (1.1 – 1.1 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.6, 6+), Entercom’s similarly-programmed KFXX “1080 The Fan” forfeits one-tenth to 1.5 (#21 to #22, 6+). Unchanged at #24, iHeartMedia-owned KPOJ “Sports Radio 620” (Trailblazers) has nearly quadrupled (+.8) its 6+-stat in three spikes in a row (.3 – .4 – .9 – 1.1, 6+).

Bouncing back from November’s loss of six-tenths with a December increase of four-tenths (7.9 – 8.3, 6+), Oregon Public Broadcasting news/talk KOPB repeats at #2, after an October-only stay at #1. KOPB has been +1.2 (January); -2.0 (February/March); +.6 (April); -.9 (May); +.5 (August); +1.1 (October); and -.6 (November).

Portland Music Formats – Down a combined eight-tenths in October/November (8.2 – 8.2 – 7.4, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary KKCW roars back with a +1.7 to 9.1 (6+), leaping from third to first. “K-103,” which recorded an 11.4 (6+) in December 2018, was on top in July, August, and September, before slipping to #2 in October. Its September +1.1 vaporized July/August’s -.7 (7.8 – 7.4 – 7.1, 6+). In November, classic hits-oldies sibling KLTH made an identical third to first move but “106.7 The Eagle” erodes by -1.4 (8.5 – 7.1, 6+) and is back in third-place. Entering the December ratings period, “The Eagle” was a cumulative +1.6 as a result of three positive spikes in succession (6.9 – 7.1, 8.0 – 8.5, 6+); 8.5 was its best 6+-showing since April’s 8.6. Negative or neutral trends by KINK “Uniquely Portland” the last six sweeps accounted for a -1.7 (4.5 – 3.9 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.1 – 2.8 – 2.8, 6+) but the Alpha Media triple A hangs out a December increase of eight-tenths to 3.6 (#16 to #11, 6+). An overall -2.8 in four straight decreases (5.9 – 5.5 – 4.7 – 3.8 – 3.1, 6+), immediately after logging three consecutive increases that yielded eight-tenths (5.1 – 5.5 – 5.6 – 5.9, 6+), Entercom-owned KGON “92.3 Portland’s Classic Rock” improves by seven-tenths and re-enters the top ten (3.8, #14 to #10, 6+). On the heels of November’s +.9 (2.9 – 3.8, 6+), iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR KXJM “JAM’N 107.5” forfeits seven-tenths to 3.1 (6+) and drifts from the top ten (#8 to #13). November’s 3.8 was its best 6+-stat since June’s 3.9. After being a collective +1.6 through five successive increases (1.8 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.8 – 3.0 – 3.4, 6+), Salem Media Group regional Mexican KRYP “93.1 El Rey” is now down eight-tenths in November/December (3.4 – 3.2 – 2.6, #13 to #17, 6+). Off seven-tenths in November/December (5.0 – 4.8 – 4.3, 6+), Alpha Media CHR KBFF “Live 95.5” slips from fifth to sixth. Entercom adult hits KYCH “97.1 Charlie We Play Everything,” which was +.6 in September/October (5.1 – 5.1 – 5.7, 6+), is now a combined -1.1 in November/December (5.7 – 4.8 – 4.6, flat at #5, 6+). After posting a 1.8 in June (#20, 6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KLVP “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” is unlisted the sixth month in a row.

Charlotte

Spoken-Word Formats – Pushing up from tenth to ninth, Entercom-owned WBT “Charlotte’s News Talk” (Carolina Panthers) is without a loss the fourth straight time for a net gain of eight-tenths (3.3 – 3.7 – 4.0 – 4.1 – 4.1, 6+).

Co-owned WFNZ “The Fan – Charlotte’s Sports Leader” has a July 2019 through December 2019 topline of: 1.3 – 1.8 – 1.6 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.5 (unchanged at #18, 6+).

In all 12 monthly reports this year, University Radio Foundation news/talk WFAE (steady at #14) has remained within 2.1 – 2.9 range and has been in an alternating down/up pattern since May: 2.3 – 2.1 – 2.4 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 2.2 – 2.7 – 2.6 (6+).

Charlotte Music Formats – Not only is Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WKQC a collective +3.7 as a result of three bumps in a row (4.9 – 5.3 – 6.2 – 8.6, 6+), “K-104.7 More Music/Better Variety” jumps from third to first with its best 6+-stat (8.6) since “Holiday” 2018’s 12.9. In December 2018, WKQC logged an 8.0 (6+). Dislodged from the top spot after three successive months there is iHeartMedia classic rock WRFX “99.7 The Fox,” which is a combined -1.0 in November/December (8.3 – 8.2 – 7.3, first to second, 6+). Its November decrease curtailed four consecutive bumps that produced a collective +2.9 (5.4 – 6.4 – 6.7 – 7.5 – 8.3, 6+). Prior to September, “The Fox” last occupied Charlotte’s ratings penthouse in March 2018 (7.3, 6+). A combined +.7 in September/October (5.7 – 5.9 – 6.4, 6+), adult hits cluster-mate WLKO “102.9 The Lake” was -.5 in November to 5.9 (6+) and is now +.8 (6.7, fifth to third, 6+). Advancing from #13 to #12, alternative sibling WEND “106.5 The End” gains seven-tenths in three successive up or flat trends (2.7 – 2.7 – 2.9 – 3.4, 6+). This is its best 6+-stat since May (3.4, as well). While anchored at #12, Entercom hot AC WLNK “107.9 The Link Charlotte’s Best Mix” picks up three-tenths to 3.4 (6+), thus applying the brakes to four consecutive down or flat reports that accounted for an overall -1.5 (4.6 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 3.7 – 3.4 – 3.1, 6+). Beasley Media Group-owned WSOC “103.7 Country’s Hottest Hits” was -1.2 in September/October (6.8 – 6.1 – 5.6, 6+); +1.5 (November); and now -1.0 in December (7.1 – 6.1, second to fourth, 6+). WSOC was up eight-tenths in August after being -1.5 in June/July (7.5 – 6.9 – 6.0, 6+). Prior to segueing to June’s runner-up slot, “103.7 Country’s Hottest Hits” was on top the previous four months. One-half share behind WSOC is iHeartMedia’s similarly-programmed WKKT “96.9 The Kat – Charlotte’s #1 for New Country,” which is trending 5.5 – 5.7 – 5.4 – 5.6 (6+) and repeats at #6. In advance of August/September’s -1.1 (6.6 – 6.0 – 5.5, 6+), “The Kat” was a collective +1.3 via five successive positive or neutral moves (5.3 – 6.1 – 6.3 – 6.4 – 6.4 – 6.6, 6+). After improving by one-half share in November, Radio Training Network contemporary Christian WLFJ “HIS Radio” relinquishes six-tenths in December (1.5 – .9, 6+) but continues at #19. In addition to being a collective -1.3 via three drops in a row (5.0 – 4.6 – 4.1 – 3.7, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR WHQC “Hits 96.1” exits the top ten (#10 to #11). After recording a one-half share increase in June (2.1 – 2.6, #14, 6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WRCM “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” is unlisted the sixth month in a row.

San Antonio

Spoken-Word Formats – Following four straight sweeps without a loss for an overall +1.4 (4.3 – 5.0 – 5.6 – 5.6 – 5.7, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WOAI “News Radio 1200 – San Antonio’s News, Traffic, & Weather” drops four-tenths in November/December (5.7 – 5.4 – 5.3, third to fourth, 6+). The August 2019 through December 2019 topline for Alpha Media news/talk KTSA “Stay Connected” is: 1.8 – 1.7 – 2.0 – 1.8 – 1.7 (#21 to #20, 6+).

Finishing at #29 and #32, respectively, are iHeartMedia sports talk KTKR “Ticket 760 – San Antonio’s Sports Station” (.7 – .6, -.1, #27 to #29, 6+) and Alpha Media’s similarly-programmed KZDC “ESPN San Antonio,” which records its fourth straight report without a loss for a net gain of three-tenths (.2 – .3 – .3 – .5 – .5, #30 to #29, 6+).

Texas Public Radio news/talk KSTX, which was up one-half share in three improvements in a row (3.0 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.5, 6+), drops two-tenths to 3.3 (flat at #13, 6+).

San Antonio Music Formats – After trending 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.6 (September – October – November, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary KQXT erupts with a +2.9 to 6.5 (6+) and rockets from #12 to #2; “Q-101.9” notched a 9.5 (6+) in December 2018. Turning around October/November’s -.5 (4.2 – 4.1 – 3.7, 6+) with a December spike of six-tenths, Univision Radio rhythmic CHR KBBT “98.5 The Beat” cracks the top ten (4.3, #11 to #6). In addition to being #1 the tenth consecutive time, Apollo Global Management/Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies KONO-FM “101.1 San Antonio’s Greatest Hits” is a cumulative +1.8 as a result of four consecutive bumps (6.7 – 7.2 – 7.8 – 8.2 – 8.5, 6+). September’s increase interrupted three decreases in succession that accounted for an overall -1.8 (8.5 – 8.2 – 7.1 – 6.7, 6+). This is its highest 6+-stat since May (8.5, as well); August’s 6.7 (6+) is KONO-FM’s lowest since 6.0 (6+) in “Holiday” 2018. “San Antonio’s Greatest Hits” had been the runner-up five successive times before progressing to #1 in March. Following five up or flat trends that generated a collective +1.6 (3.8 – 4.6 – 4.6 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 5.4, 6+), Alpha Media adult hits KJXK “102.7 Jack FM Playing What We Want” returns all but one-half share of that increase (4.3, -1.1, third to sixth, 6+). November 2019 marked the first time San Antonio’s “Jack” reached the five-share threshold (5.4, 6+) since its 5.3 in November 2018. A combined +1.2 in September/October (4.3 – 5.1 – 5.5, 6+), Apollo Global Management/Cox Media Group hot AC KSMG “Magic 105.3” is -1.3 in November/December (5.5 – 4.9 – 4.2, fifth to eighth, 6+). Co-owned classic country KKYX “Country Legends” falters by six-tenths (2.1 – 1.5, 6+) and departs the top twenty (#19 to #21) with its lowest 6+ stat since June 2018 (1.5, as well). On the heels of breaking out a November gain of seven-tenths, iHeartMedia Spanish contemporary KZEP “Latino Hits 104.5” surrenders one-half share (3.2 – 2.7, flat at #15, 6+). Finishing at #3 and #5, respectively, are Apollo Global Management/Cox Media Group-owned KCYY “Y-100 San Antonio’s New Country Leader” (5.8 – 5.7, -.1, second to third, 6+) and iHeartMedia’s KAJA “KJ-97 San Antonio’s #1 Country Station” (4.6 – 4.4, -.2, sixth to fifth, 6+). KCYY’s one-tenth spike in November halted five straight decreases that accounted for an overall -1.5 (7.2 – 6.9 – 6.4 – 6.2 – 6.1 – 5.7, 6+). Recent shifts for “Y-100” include: +1.8 (January 2019); +.6 (February); -.6 (March); +.6 (May); and -.5 (July). “KJ-97” answered October’s -1.1 with a November gain of three-tenths. Before September’s +.3, KAJA was -1.1 in three consecutive losses (6.2 – 6.0 – 5.5 – 5.1, 6+). “KJ-97” has been -1.0 (“Holiday” 2018); +3.0 (January 2019); –1.9 (March); -.5 (July); and -1.1 (October).

Sacramento

Spoken-Word Formats – A collective +1.5 via five successive sweeps without a loss (5.2 – 5.2 – 5.7 – 5.7 – 5.9 – 6.7, 6+), iHeartMedia–owned news/talk KFBK surrenders one-third of that increase (6.2, -.5, 6+) but continues in third-place. November’s 6.7 was the best 6+-stat for “Sacramento’s News, Weather and Traffic Station” since February (7.0). Co-owned KSTE “Talk 650” is -1.6 as a result of four downturns in a row and drops below a two-share (3.3 – 3.0 – 2.8 – 2.3 – 1.7, #14 to #16, 6+).

Continuing an alternating up/down pattern that commenced in August (.8 – 1.0 – .9 – 1.3 – 1.1, 6+), Entercom sports talk KIFM-AM “ESPN Radio 1320” slips from #19 to #20. Bonneville’s KHTK “Sports 1140” has an August 2019 through December 2019 topline of: 8 – .9 – .9 – .8 – .9 (#22 to #21, 6+). These two sports talkers were tied in July, August, and October.

Capital Public Radio news/talk KXJZ continues an alternating up/down pattern that began in June: 4.7 – 5.0 – 4.8 – 5.3 – 5.1 – 6.0 – 5.6 (fourth to fifth, 6+). December 2018’s 6.9 is the highest 6+-stat in its PPM-history.

Sacramento Music Formats – In addition to advancing from seventh to fourth, Bonneville adult contemporary KYMX “Mix 96” nets a +1.9 through three consecutive sweeps without a loss (4.2 – 4.5 – 4.5 – 6.1, 6+). By way of comparison, “Mix” notched an 8.8 (6+) in December 2018. Its format rival (as of mid-November 2018), iHeartMedia’s KBEB “92.5 The Breeze,” has been a combined +.9 (August/September); -.9 (October); +.6 (November); and now -.2 in December (4.5 – 4.3, seventh to ninth, 6+). In the 14 reports since KBEB’s format switch from country to AC, “Mix” has prevailed 12 times; “The Breeze” has come on top once (September, 4.8 to 4.2, 6+); and the two AC rivals were tied in November 2019. Doubling (+1.3) its 6+-stat via three spikes in succession (1.3 – 1.7 – 2.0 – 2.6, 6+), Lotus Communications regional Mexican KVMX-FM “La Ranchera” advances from #16 to #15. A collective +1.0 as a result of four straight up or flat trends (1.7 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.7, 6+), Entravision rhythmic CHR KHHM “Hot Hits Fuego 103.5” pushes up from #15 to #14. The combination of Bonneville-owned KNCI “New Country 105.1” remaining flat and Entercom’s KSEG “96.9 The Eagle – Sacramento’s Classic Rock” dropping three-tenths to 7.3 (6+) results in KNCI progressing from second to first and KSEG segueing from first to second. “New Country” is without a loss the third time in a row for a net gain of one-half share (6.9 – 7.3 – 7.4 – 7.4, 6+). “The Eagle” had been on top the past ten months. Its July 2019 through November 2019 topline was: 7.8 – 7.9 – 7.6 – 7.8 – 7.6 (6+). “The Eagle” held the lead position ten consecutive survey periods before shifting to #2 in December 2018. Its recent fluctuations include: +1.0 (February); -.5 (April); +.9 (May); -.6 (June); and -.5 (July). After logging a one-half share increase in November, Entercom’s KRXQ “98 Rock” erodes by twice that margin (5.8 – 4.8, -1.0, fifth to sixth, 6+). After three successive gains generated a +1.1 (5.0 – 5.2 – 6.0 – 6.1, 6+), “98 Rock” regressed by eight-tenths in October. It is tied with co-owned CHR KUDL “106.5 The End,” which picks up three-tenths to 4.8 (seventh to sixth, 6+), thus halting six down or flat trends in succession that led to an overall -1.5 (6.0 – 5.7 – 5.7 – 5.5 – 4.9 – 4.7 – 4.5, 6+). Still in that Entercom cluster, alternative KKDO “Alt 94.7” falters by an overall -1.5 in three straight drops (4.7 – 4.3 – 3.9 – 3.2, 6+) and departs the top ten (#10 to #12).

Pittsburgh

Spoken-Word Formats –  Regaining the two-tenths it lost in November (4.1 – 3.9 – 4.1, 6+), Entercom’s KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020” is anchored in tenth-place.

After being +1.4 in September/October (5.7 – 6.3 – 7.1, 6+), co-owned sports talk KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan” is off a combined half-share in November/December (7.1 – 6.7 – 6.6, flat at #4, 6+). A gain of one-tenth (.3 – .4, 6+) takes similarly-formatted/iHeartMedia-owned WBGG 970 AM – ESPN Pittsburgh” (Steelers) from #25 to #23.

In addition to adding four-tenths to November’s +.1 (3.7 – 3.8 – 4.2, 6+), Essential Public Media news/talk WESA “90.5 Pittsburgh’s NPR Station” enters the top ten (#11 to #9).

Pittsburgh Music Formats – Up a combined nine-tenths in November/December (2.7 – 2.9 – 3.6, 6+), Steel City Media hot AC WLTJ “Q-92.9” continues at #12 with its best 6+-stat (3.6) since July’s 3.9. Substituting November’s loss of one-half share with a December gain of the same magnitude (4.9 – 4.4 – 4.9, 6+), iHeartMedia alternative WXDX “105.9 The X” (Penguins) advances from eighth to seventh. On top the third month in a row, co-owned rocker WDVE (Steelers) nets a +1.4 in three successive bumps (8.3 – 9.4 – 9.5 – 9.7, 6+). In advance of the October sweep, WDVE was a collective -1.2 through three consecutive negative trends (9.5 – 8.7 – 8.6 – 8.3, 6+). Directly following its +1.0 in three straight positive or neutral shifts (4.2 – 4.2 – 4.9 – 5.2, 6+), Entercom-owned WDSY “Pittsburgh’s Country Y-108” is a combined -1.1 in November/December (5.2 – 4.7 – 4.1, sixth to tenth, 6+). On the heels of November’s +.9 to 9.1 (6+), iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWSW “94.5 3WS” surrenders one-half share (8.6, 6+) but occupies the runner-slot the third month in a row. WWSW was a combined -1.0 in September/October (8.8 – 8.2, -.6, 6+). Immediately prior to the October sweep, “3WS” spent three successive months at #1. Its September loss of four-tenths halted three increases in succession that led to an overall +1.5 (7.7 – 8.5 – 8.9 – 9.2, 6+); August’s 9.2 was its best 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2018 (13.6). After ten straight sweeps without a loss for a net gain of three-tenths (.1 – .1 – .1 -.1 – .1 – .1 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .3 – .4, 6+), co-owned/similarly-formatted WWSW-HD2 drops one-tenth to .3 (#24 to #25, 6+). While unchanged in fifth-place, co-owned CHR WKST “96.1 Kiss – Pittsburgh’s #1 Hit Music Station” is without an increase the fourth consecutive sweep for a net loss of -1.6 (6.6 – 5.9 – 5.2 – 5.0 – 5.0, 6+). August’s 6.6 was the best 6+-showing for “Kiss” since September 2018’s 6.7. It is tied with Renda Broadcasting adult contemporary WSHH “Wish 99.7,” which adds four-tenths (5.0, seventh to fifth, 6+) thus halting six negative or neutral moves in a row that accounted for an overall -1.7 (6.3 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 5.0 – 4.8 – 4.6, 6+).

Salt Lake City

Spoken-Word Formats – Despite being a combined -.8 in November/December (6.4 – 5.7 – 5.6, 6+), Bonneville-owned KSL “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” progresses from fourth to second; KSL was +2.4 in October (4.0 – 6.4, 6+). When KSL gained six-tenths in September (3.4 – 4.0, 6+), it suspended four consecutive down or flat moves that led to a collective -1.8 (5.2 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.6 – 3.4, 6+); August’s 3.4 is KSL’s lowest 6+ PPM-stat. Immediately after hauling out November’s +2.0 (3.2 – 5.2, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned/similarly-formatted KNRS “Talk Radio 105.9 – Listen And You’ll Know” relinquishes half that hefty gain (4.2, -1.0, 6+) and exits the top ten (#6 to #11). October’s increase of four-tenths halted three straight down or flat sweeps that led to a loss of nine-tenths (3.7 – 3.0 – 2.8 – 2.8, 6+). While Cumulus Media-owned KKAT carries on at #21, “860 AM – Utah’s Big Talker” is off one-tenth to .4 (6+) and concludes six sweeps without a loss that yielded two-tenths (.3 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .5 – .5, 6+).

This is the 12^th sweep in a row that Broadway Media sports talk KALL “ESPN 700” is unlisted.

A combined -.4 in October/November (2.2 – 2.1 – 1.8, 6+), University of Utah news/talk KUER gains two-tenths to 2.0 (flat at #15, 6+).

Salt Lake City Music Formats – Logging its third bump in a row for a collective +4.7 (6.3 – 6.7 – 6.8 – 11.0, 6+), Bonneville’s KSFI “FM 100.3 – Better Music/Better Work Day” is #1 the third time in a row. Immediately prior, “FM 100.3” was -2.0 via four straight negative moves (8.3 – 8.0 – 6.7 – 6.6 – 6.3, 6+). KSFI was on top five consecutive months; segued to the runner-up slot in April; and returned to #1 in May and June. “FM 100.3” was the only PPM-market station in “Holiday” 2018 to reach the 20-share level (21.8, 6+). One year ago, KSFI recorded a 12.7 (December 2018, 6+). After gaining six-tenths in October (3.4 – 4.0, 6+) and reaching the four-share level (4.0) for the first time since January’s 4.2, Cumulus Media’s similarly-formatted KBEE “B-98.7 Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites” is -1.2 in November/December (4.0 – 3.0 – 2.8, #12 to #14, 6+). When CHR sibling KENZ lost four-tenths in November, it stymied four spikes in succession that generated a +1.0 (2.5 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 3.2 – 3.5, 6+). “Power 94.9 – Utah’s New Hit Music” roars back with a December +1.4 (3.1 – 4.5, 6+) and re-enters the top ten (#11 to #9). Recording boosts of nine-tenths each are iHeartMedia’s KAAZ “Rock 106.7” (3.7, #13 to #12) and co-owned adult contemporary KJMY-HD2 (.2 – 1.1, 6+), which cracks the top twenty at #17. “Rock 106.7” was a combined -1.1 in October/November (3.9 – 3.0 – 2.8, 6+). Ups/downs continue for Bonneville classic hits-oldies KRSP “103.5 The Arrow,” which erodes by -1.3 in December (6.3 – 5.0, second to fourth, 6+). By gaining four-tenths in November, “Arrow” concluded three downward moves in a row that resulted in a -1.7 (7.6 – 7.2 – 6.3 – 5.9, 6+). On top in April, July, and August, KRSP’s July improvement of eight-tenths interrupted May/June’s -1.4 (8.2 – 7.6 – 6.8, 6+), which followed five consecutive increases resulting in an overall +2.5 (5.7 – 6.1 – 6.3 – 7.0 – 7.8 – 8.2, 6+). While it remains flat in third-place, iHeartMedia-owned/similarly-formatted KODJ “94.1 Salt Lake’s Greatest Hits” sputters by a collective -1.9 in three successive setbacks (7.1 – 6.5 – 6.2 – 5.2, 6+). A loss of eight-tenths sends iHeartMedia CHR KZHT “97.1 ZHT Salt Lake’s #1 Hit Music Station” from fourth to sixth and below a five-share (5.7 – 4.9, 6+). While co-owned adult contemporary KJMY-HD2 notches a +.9 (see above), hot AC KJMY-FM “My-99.5” is an overall -1.5 as a result of four downturns in succession (5.9 – 5.4 – 5.0 – 4.9 – 4.4, eighth to tenth, 6+). Unchanged at #18, KLO Broadcasting’s KSQN “103.1 The Wave – Your Classic Alternative” is down or flat the eighth sweep in a row for a roughly 47% loss (-.8) of its 6+ AQH share (1.7 – 1.5 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.1 – .9 – .9 – .9, 6+). These Broadway Media stations are unlisted the 12^th  sweep in a row: adult hits KYMV; alternative KXRK; CHR KUDD; country KEGA; and rhythmic CHR KUUU. Meanwhile, Cumulus Media alternative KHTB is now simulcasting KENZ (see above); in November, KHTB notched a 1.8 (#15, 6+).

Las Vegas

Spoken-Word Formats – In an alternating down/up pattern (2.3 – 2.2 – 2.6 – 2.4, September – October – November – December, 6+), Entercom-owned KXNT “News Talk Radio 840” slides from #12 to #18. Even though Beasley Media Group‘s KDWN “The Talk of Las Vegas” is up one half-share as a result of four successive sweeps without a decrease (1.0 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.3 – 1.5, 6+), “AM 720 Where Las Vegas Comes to Talk” downshifts from #21 to #22.

In six consecutive up or flat trends, Lotus Communications sports talk KWWN more than tripled (+1.0) its 6+ AQH-share (.4 – .5 – .5 -.5 – .8 – 1.3 – 1.4, 6+), but “ESPN Radio 1100” is now off one-tenth in back-to-back reports (1.4 – 1.3 – 1.2, #21 to #24, 6+). Tied at #27 are KWWN sibling/Golden Knights flagship KRLV “Fox Sports Radio Las Vegas” (flat at .4, 6+) and Entercom sports talk KXST “CBS Sports Radio 1140 AM” (.5 – .4, -.1, #26 to #27, 6+).

After having lost roughly 52% (-2.5) of its 6+ AQH share via three major drops in a row (4.8 – 4.1 – 3.3 – 2.3, 6+), Nevada Public Radio news/talk KNPR answers with a November gain of six-tenths to 2.9 (6+), zooming from #18 to #11.

Las Vegas Music Formats – Bouncing back from November’s loss of six-tenths with an increase twice that margin (7.5 – 8.7, +1.2, 6+), KSNE “Sunny 106.5 – Better Music For A Better Workday” advances from second to first. In December 2018, the iHeartMedia adult contemporary outlet posted a 9.1 (6+). September’s loss of nine-tenths snapped at three its consecutive string of upticks that yielded a +3.8 (4.8 – 6.0 – 7.6 – 8.6, 6+). Prior to May, “Sunny” last fell below a five-share (6+) in October 2017 (4.8, as well). “Holiday” 2018’s 12.8 is the highest 6+-share for any Las Vegas station since the 14.0 KSNE logged in “Holiday” 2016. Despite posting a spike of one-tenth (8.0 – 8.1, 6+), Beasley Media group classic hits-oldies KKLZ “Hits of the ‘80s and More” segues to the runner-up slot after a November-only visit at #1. Nonetheless, KKLZ is a collective +2.0 through six consecutive increases (6.1 – 7.2 – 7.4 – 7.6 – 7.7 – 8.0 – 8.1, 6+) and has its best 6+-share (8.1) since February’s 8.3. Taking over from KSNE at #1 in February, KKLZ remained on top through June, before giving way (again) to “Sunny.” The market’s (6+) hot AC share gets a +1.2 jolt, nearly equally divided between Entercom-owned KMXB “Mix 94.1” (5.2 – 5.9, +.7, fourth to third, 6+) and Beasley Media Group’s KVGS “Star 107.9” (+.6, seventh to fifth). “Mix” notches its best 6+-stat (5.9) since May’s 6.5, while “Star” is +1.1 through five successive sweeps without a loss (3.3 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.4, 6+). Tacking on a December +1.1 to November’s +.6 (3.5 – 4.1 – 5.2, 6+), Lotus Communications’ KWID “La Buena 101.9” jumps from sixth to fourth; its current 5.2 (6+) eclipses June’s 5.1 (6+). Rocketing back into the top ten (#12 to #6), Entercom’s KLUC “98.5 Las Vegas’ #1 Hit Music Station” is a combined +1.0 in November/December (2.8 – 3.1 – 3.8, 6+). Up six-tenths to 2.5, its best 6+-stat since July’s 2.6, Univision Radio regional Mexican KISF “Zona Mx 103.5” progresses from #20 to #16. An overall +1.3 through three improvements in a row (4.5 – 4.6 – 4.8 – 5.8, 6+), Lotus Communications-owned KXPT “97.1 The Point #1 For Classic Rock” craters by a combined -3.2 (or roughly 55%) in November/December (5.8 – 5.4 – 2.6, 6+), spiraling from #3 to #12. Its December -2.8 is the greatest (6+) November 2019 – December 2019 decrease by any station in the 36 PPM-markets released thus far. Meanwhile, the wild ride continues for iHeartMedia’s KYMT “93.1 The Mountain – World Class Rock,” which was an overall -1.7 via three straight down or flat (August through October) reports (4.1 – 2.7 – 2.4 – 2.4, 6+); +1.1 (November); and now -.9 in December (3.5 – 2.6, #8 to #12, 6+). It’s a fairly similar scenario for Entercom rhythmic hot AC KXQQ “Q-100.5,” which was a cumulative +1.1 in five consecutive up or flat moves (3.9 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 4.3 – 4.4 – 5.0, 6+); then -2.1 via four straight sweeps without an increase (5.0 – 3.6 – 3.0 – 2.9 – 2.9, 6+); followed by a +1.6 in October/November (2.9 – 3.6 – 4.5, 6+); and now -.7 in December (3.8, fifth to sixth, 6+). In May 2019, KXQQ reached the five-share level (6+) for the first time since May 2018 (5.0, as well). Within 2.1 – 2.7 range (6+) in each of the last 15 ratings periods, Lotus Communications’ KOMP “92.3 The Rock Station” is off one-half share to 1.9 (#17 to #20, 6+). Following five consecutive up or flat reports for a net gain of six-tenths (2.7 – 2.8 – 3.0 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.3, 6+), Faith Communications contemporary Christian KSOS “SOS Radio” drops two-tenths to 3.1 (ninth to tenth, 6+). In six straight sweeps without an increase, Beasley Media Group’s country-formatted KCYE “102.7 The Coyote” is an overall -1.5 (4.1 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.0 – 2.6 – 2.6 – 2.6, 6+) but advances from #13 to #12. Similarly-programmed/iHeartMedia-owned KWNR “95.5 The Bull – Las Vegas’ New Country Leader” is a collective -1.2 in three drops in a row (3.4 – 2.8 – 2.5 – 2.2, #16 to #19, 6+). This is the 11^th consecutive time that Entravision Communications regional Mexican KQRT and Spanish contemporary sibling KRRN are unlisted.

Orlando

Spoken-Word Formats – Despite dropping two-tenths (4.7 – 4.5, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned news/talk WTKS “Real Radio 104.1 – We Say What We Want” progresses from ninth to eighth. A combined -1.3 in October/November (5.1 – 4.2 – 3.8, 6+), Apollo Global Management/Cox Media Group’s WDBO-FM “News 96.5” recaptures two-tenths to 4.0 (#12 to #11, 6+). Flat at #13, iHeartMedia-owned WFLF “News Radio Orlando,” which gained nine-tenths in October/November (2.5 – 3.1 – 3.4, 6+), is off four-tenths to 3.0 (6+).

Following eight successive up or flat trends for a net gain of +1.1 (.2 – .3 – .3 – .7 – .7 – .7 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.3, 6+), Apollo Global Management/Cox Media Group sports talk WDBO-AM “ESPN 580 Orlando” surrenders one-tenth to 1.2 (#16 to #17, 6+). Down one-tenth as well is iHeartMedia-owned/similarly-formatted Magic flagship WYGM “FM 96.9 The Game – Orlando’s Sports Leader” (1.1 – 1.0, #19 to #20, 6+).

Despite being down four-tenths in November/December (3.4 – 3.1 – 3.0, 6+), following a +.9 in September/October (2.5 – 3.3 – 3.4, 6+), Community Communications’ news/talk WMFE “90.7 Public Radio for Central Florida” advances from #15 to #13.

Orlando Music Formats – Over and above notching a +2.3 (7.1, 9.4, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMGF “Magic 107.7” storms from third to first. This (9.4) is the highest 6+-stat for “Magic” since its 14.3 in “Holiday” 2018, the last time it occupied the top spot. Setting the pace the past seven months, Entercom classic hits-oldies WOCL “105-9 Sunny FM – We Own The ‘80s” (9.1 – 9.0, -.1, 6+) segues to #2. Prior to November’s increase of six-tenths, WOCL was a combined -2.5 in September/October (11.0 – 9.5 – 8.5, 6+). Immediately in advance of the September sweep, “Sunny” netted a +3.1 through four consecutive bumps (7.9 – 9.0 – 9.4 – 10.8 – 11.0, 6+). An overall -2.1 via five decreases in a row (8.7 – 8.5 – 7.8 – 7.1 – 7.0 – 6.6, 6+), WMGF’s Spanish tropical cluster-mate, WRUM “Rumba 100.3,” pulls the plug with a December gain of nine-tenths to 7.5 (fourth to third, 6+). WRUM held the runner-up slot three months in a row but fell to third in August. Entravision Communications’ similarly-formatted WNUE is unlisted for the 11^th successive report. In an alternating down/up pattern that commenced in August (6.0 – 5.2 – 5.3 – 4.9 – 5.4, 6+), Apollo Global Management/Cox Media Group’s WMMO “98.9 Orlando’s Classic Hits” inches up from sixth to fifth. Netting four-tenths in seven up or flat trends in succession (.7 – .7 – .8 – .8 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.1, 6+), University of Central Florida-owned WUCF “89.9 Jazz & More” climbs from #19 to #18. December’s -1.1 to 6.4 (second to fourth, 6+) by iHeartMedia CHR WXXL “XL-106.7 Orlando’s #1 Hit Music Station” vaporizes its October/November improvement of eight-tenths (6.7 – 7.3 – 7.5, 6+). Entercom hot AC WOMX “Mix 105.1” continues an alternating down/up pattern that surfaced in June: 6.5 – 7.1 – 6.7 – 6.8 – 5.9 – 6.1 – 5.2 (fifth to sixth, 6+). Three straight bumps by Apollo Global Management/Cox Media Group rhythmic CHR WPYO delivered a +1.1 (3.8 – 3.9 – 4.3, 4.9, 6+) but “Power 95.3 Orlando’s New #1 For All The Hits” forfeits six-tenths to 4.3 (sixth to ninth, 6+). Faltering by six-tenths as well is iHeartMedia’s WJRR “101.1 Orlando’s Rock Station” (3.9 – 3.3, #11 to #12, 6+). Off one-half share each are Apollo Global Management/Cox Media Group-owned WWKA “K-92.3 Orlando’s #1 For New Country” (4.7 – 4.2, ninth to tenth, 6+) and its internet stream (.8 – .3, #21 to #23, 6+). Seven recent WWKA fluctuations include: -.5 (May); +.6 (June); -.5 (August); +.6 (September); -.9 (October); +.9 (November); and -.5 (December). Its internet stream was up six-tenths in November.

Cincinnati

Spoken-Word Formats – Notwithstanding that it repeats in the runner-up slot after three straight months at #1, iHeartMedia news/talk WLW (Bengals) is a combined -3.2 in four successive sweeps without an increase (10.7 – 10.7 – 9.8 – 8.7 – 7.5, 6+). This is the lowest 6+-stat for “The Big One” since “Holiday” 2018 (7.5, as well). Co-owned WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station” has lost four-tenths in November/December (3.1 – 2.8 – 2.7, #13 to #14, 6+).

After more than tripling (+1.1) its 6+ AQH share in four straight up or flat moves (.5 – .8 – .8 – 1.1 – 1.6, 6+), sports talk cluster-mate WCKY “Cincinnati’s ESPN 1530” surrenders four-tenths to 1.2 (6+) and remains at #17. The extremely consistent April 2019 through December 2019 topline for co-owned WSAI “Fox Sports 1360” is: .4 – .3 – .3 – .4 – .3 – .3 – .4 – .4 – .3 (#23, 6+).

This is the fourth report a row in which Cincinnati Public Radio news/talk WVXU posts a 2.9 (#11 to #12, 6+).

Cincinnati Music Formats – Owing to six successive downturns, Cumulus Media adult contemporary WRRM was an overall -2.0 and fell below a six share (7.5 – 6.9 – 6.8 – 6.5 – 6.4 – 6.0 – 5.5, 6+); however, “Warm 98.5” erases 70% of that deficit with a December +1.4 to 6.9 (fifth to third, 6+). This time last year, “Warm” logged an 8.3 (6+, December 2018). Down four-tenths in September/October (2.5 – 2.4 – 2.1, 6+), Grant County Broadcasters’ WNKN not only answers with a November/December +2.0, “Classic Country” reaches the four-share threshold and cracks the top ten (2.1 – 2.9 – 4.1, #11 to #8, 6+). Adding seven-tenths to November’s +.1 (2.7 – 2.8 – 3.5, 6+), Radio One urban contemporary WIZF “101.1 The Wiz” jumps from #13 to #11. An overall -1.2 via four straight down or flat moves (4.0 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.0 – 2.8, 6+), urban AC cluster-mate WOSL “100.3 Cinci’s R&B Station” ends the slide with a December gain of two-tenths to 3.0 (#13 to #12, 6+). Off nine-tenths in November/December (9.4 – 9.3 – 8.5, 6+), Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WGRR nonetheless repeats at #1. The only four months this year “103.5 Cincinnati’s Greatest Hits” hasn’t been #1 were January, August, September, and October. Meanwhile, co-owned WNNF “Cat Country 94.1,” which was a collective +2.0 in three straight upticks and crossed the three-share level (1.9 – 2.3 – 2.9 – 3.9, 6+), surrenders 60% of that windfall (2.7, -1.2, 6+) and drifts from the top ten (#8 to #14). Eroding by nine-tenths each are its format rival Hubbard Broadcasting’s WUBE “Get Your Country On B-105.1” (third to fourth) and WUBE’s hot AC cluster-mate WKRQ “Q-102 Cincinnati’s Hit Music” (5.8, fourth to fifth, 6+). “B-105.1” is a combined -1.3 in November/December (7.3 – 6.9 – 6.0, 6+) and has its lowest 6+-stat (6.0) in nearly three years (5.3, “Holiday” 2016). Within 5.4 – 5.9 range (6+) in eight straight survey periods (5.7 – 5.6 – 5.5 – 5.7 – 5.4 – 5.9 – 5.7 – 5.9, 6+), “Q-102” recorded a +.8 in November to 6.7 (6+).

Cleveland

Spoken-Word Formats – Without an increase the fourth straight time for a collective -2.0 (7.2 – 6.5 – 5.8 – 5.5 – 5.2, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WTAM “1100 Cleveland’s News Radio” is flat at #8. Its recent fluctuations include: -.6 (March); +.9 (April); -.7 (May); +.5 (June); +.5 (July); +1.1 (August); -.7 (September) -.7 (October); and -.6 (November). Simulcasting Radio One’s WERE “News Talk 1490 The People’s Station,” cluster-mate WZAK-HD3 popped on in November with a .6 (6+) and doubles that in December to 1.2 (+.6, #19 to #16, 6+). Unlisted in July, August, and September, Salem Media Group news/talk WHK “AM 1420 The Answer, News-Opinion-Insight” resurfaced in print in October and logs a .9 (6+) the third time in a row (#17 to #18, 6+).

In addition to progressing from seventh to sixth, Entercom’s WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” (Browns) has more than doubled (+3.1) its 6+ AQH share via six successive spikes (3.0 – 3.1 – 3.4 – 4.4 – 5.3 – 5.7 – 6.1, 6+).

Immediately after September’s -1.3 (4.0 – 2.7, 6+), Ideastream-owned news/talk WCPN gains a cumulative nine-tenths in three successive up or flat moves (2.7 – 3.3 – 3.6 – 3.6, #12 to #11, 6+).

Cleveland Music Formats – Not only does Entercom adult contemporary WDOK triple November’s gain of six-tenths with a December +1.8 (7.2 – 9.0, 6+), “Cleveland’s Star 102” marches from third to first. By way of comparison, “Star” posted an 8.2 (6+) in December 2018. Dislodged from the top spot after three consecutive months there is iHeartMedia-owned WMJI “Majic 105.7 – Cleveland’s Greatest Hits” (9.4 – 8.8, first to second, 6+). Prior to shifting to third in August, WMJI was the market leader eight straight sweeps. Recent “Majic” shifts include: +2.8 (“Holiday” 2018); -1.7 (January 2019); +.8 (February); +1.0 (March); -1.0 (April); -.6 (July); -1.0 (August); +.8 (September); +.8 (November); and -.6 (December). Four positive or neutral trends in succession by Entercom hot AC WQAL “Q-104” yield eight-tenths (3.8 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.4 – 4.6, steady at #10, 6+). This (4.6) is its best 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2018’s 4.7. Radio One urban AC WZAK-FM is up one-half share and is unchanged at #4). WZAK-FM has been -1.1 (July); +1.5 (August/September); -1.2 (October/November); and now +.5 (7.0 – 7.5, 6+). Directly following November’s uptick of nine-tenths, iHeartMedia-owned WGAR “99.5 Cleveland’s #1 For New Country” forfeits seven-tenths (9.0 – 8.3, second to third, 6+). WGAR’s June 2019 through October 2019 topline was: 8.1 – 8.1 – 8.3 – 8.0 – 8.1 (6+). Carrying on at #13, CHR sibling WAKS “96.5 Kiss FM” is within 3.1 – 3.9 range the 11^th successive time (3.6 – 3.9 – 3.1 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 3.9 – 3.8 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.5 – 3.2, 6+).

Kansas City

Spoken-Word Formats – A collective +1.6 in three straight up or flat trends (4.5 – 5.4 – 6.1 – 6.1, 6+), Entercom news/talk KMBZ-FM “98.1 News-Traffic-Weather” surrenders half that increase (5.3, -.8, 6+) but continues in fifth-place. Following November’s gain of three-tenths, which halted four consecutive down or flat reports that led to a -.5 (2.3 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 1.8 – 1.8, 6+), co-owned KMBZ-AM “Talk 980” drops one-tenth (2.1 – 2.0, #18 to #19, 6+). Flat at #21, Cumulus Media’s KCMO-AM “Talk Radio 710 AM” has a July 2019 through December 2019 topline of: 1.1 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.0 – 1.3 – 1.3 (6+).

In addition to slumping by six-tenths in November/December (4.2 – 3.8 – 3.6, 6+), Union Broadcasting’s WHB “Sports Radio 810” departs the top ten (#9 to #12). October’s 4.2 was its best 6+-stat since January (5.0). Meanwhile, Entercom-owned KCSP “610 Sports Radio” duplicates November’s loss of six-tenths (3.4 – 2.8 – 2.2, #15 to #17, 6+). The November decline halted three straight improvements that netted nine-tenths (2.5 – 2.9 – 3.2 – 3.4,  6+). That streak directly followed three drops in succession that resulted in a -1.5 (4.0 – 3.9 – 3.3 – 2.5, 6+).

Off by six-tenths as well is University of Missouri news/talk KCUR, which completely erases November’s +.6 (4.1 – 4.7 – 4.1, sixth to ninth, 6+). In November, 4.7 KCUR had its best 6+-stat since May (4.7, as well).

Kansas City Music Formats –It’s a mixed bag for the market’s three country FMs. Specifically, Steel City Media’s KBEQ “Q-104 New Hit Country” registers a +1.3 (4.7, #13 to #7, 6+) and Entercom’s WDAF “106.5 The Wolf” improves by one half share (3.8 – 4.3, ninth to eighth, 6+); however, Steel City Media’s KFKF “Country 94.1” regresses by seven-tenths (5.7, fourth to third, 6+). “Q-104” had been an overall -1.6 in three straight downturns (5.0 – 4.9 – 4.5, – 3.4, 6+), while “The Wolf” – a combined -1.4 in September/October (4.2 – 3.2 – 2.8, 6+) – logged a +1.0 in November. Powered by November’s +1.5, “Country 94.1” was +1.9 in October/November (4.5 – 4.9 – 6.4, 6+). Its November 6.4 (6+) marked the first time any Kansas City country outlet crossed the six-share level since KFKF did so in August 2018 (6.2, 6+). Having reached the nine-share level (6+) in June and July (9.2 each time), Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies KCMO-FM does so again in December (8.6 – 9.3, 6+); “94.9 Kansas City’s Greatest Hits” is anchored in the runner-up slot the sixth straight month. From January through June, KCMO-FM was +3.8 through six successive sweeps without a loss (5.4 – 6.6 – 7.7 – 7.9 – 7.9 – 9.2 – 9.2, 6+). Eight recent KCMO-FM fluctuations include: +1.6 (“Holiday” 2018); -1.3 (January 2019); +1.2 (February); +1.1 (March); +1.3 (June); -.6 (August); +.6 (October); and +.7 (December). Following four decreases in a row for a collective -1.5 (4.9 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.7 – 3.4, 6+), Entercom’s KQRC “98.9 The Rock” ends the slide with an increase of four-tenths to 3.8 (6+) and re-enters the top ten (#13 to #10). Tacking on one-half share to November’s increase of six-tenths (4.1 – 4.7 – 5.2, flat at #6, 6+), hot AC sibling KZPT “99.7 The Point” reaches the five-share level (5.2, 6+) for the first time in more than two years (5.1, November 2017). Answering November’s -.6 with a December +.3 (9.9 – 10.3, 6+), Cumulus Media-owned KCFX “101 The Fox – Kansas City’s Classic Rock Station” (Chiefs) is #1 the six month in a row. KCFX was a combined +1.2 in September/October (9.3 – 10.3 – 10.5, 6+). An August loss of six-tenths curtailed four straight gains that netted a +2.6 (7.3 – 7.7 – 8.4 – 8.6 – 9.9, 6+). In this year’s 12 survey periods, “The Fox” has been on top nine times (January, February, May, July, August, September, October, November, and December), while aforementioned classic hits-oldies sibling, KCMO-FM, has set the pace the other three (March, April, and June). Eroding by -1.2 (6.7 – 5.5, 6+), Carter Broadcast Group urban contemporary KPRS “Hot 103 Jamz” slips from third to fourth and is below a six-share (5.5, 6+) for the first time since “Holiday” 2018’s 5.8. Up nine-tenths in October/November (2.9 – 3.4 – 3.8, 6+), Steel City Media adult contemporary KCKC “KC-102.1 Today’s Best Variety” slumps by seven-tenths to 3.1 (6+) and departs the top ten (#9 to #14). Unchanged at #20, Cumulus Media-owned KCJK “105.1 The X – Kansas City’s Rock Alternative” is a collective -1.0 in three straight drops (2.6 – 2.5 – 1.7 – 1.6, #18 to #20, 6+). Prior to November, the last time KCJK fell below a two-share (6+) was in February (1.9).

Columbus

Spoken-Word Formats –  Off a combined four-tenths in November/December (6.4 – 6.1 – 6.0, 6+), directly after September/October’s +1.4 (5.0 – 5.6 – 6.4, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WTVN “News Radio 610” repeats in fifth-place.

The five most recent trends for Tegna’s WBNS-FM “Sports Radio 97.1 The Fan” are: 4.0 – 5.7 – 7.0 – 6.9 – 7.4 (third to second, 6+). Co-owned/similarly formatted WBNS-AM logs a .2 (6+) the third time in a row and remains at #19.

Up nine-tenths through three straight gains (4.3 – 4.6 – 4.8 – 5.2, 6+), Ohio State University news/talk WOSU relinquishes two-thirds of that increase (4.6, -.6, sixth to eighth, 6+).

Columbus Music Formats – Three downturns in succession by iHeartMedia adult hits WODC led to a collective -1.8 (5.6 – 4.7 – 4.2 – 3.8, 6+) but “93.3 The Bus” bounces back with a +2.1 in November/December (3.8 – 3.9 – 5.9, ninth to sixth, 6+). Prior to the June sweep, “The Bus” notched three consecutive up or flat sweeps that yielded a +1.0 (4.1 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 5.1, 6+). WODC has been -4.1 (January 2019); +.9 (May); -.5 (June); +1.0 (July); -.9 (August); -.5 (September) and +2.0 (December). Improving by six-tenths each are Radio One urban AC WXMG “Magic 95.5” (4.0, #11 to #9, 6+), which lost three-tenths in October/November (3.7 – 3.5 – 3.4, 6+), and Saga Communications hot AC WVMX “Mix 107.9,” a combined +.9 in November/December (1.9 – 2.2 – 2.8, #13 to #12, 6+). Duplicating November’s increase of one-half share (6.2 – 6.7 – 7.2, 6+), Saga Communications adult contemporary WSNY “Sunny 95” advances from fourth to third. Immediately following its +.9 as a result of three successive up or flat trends (6.7 – 6.9 – 6.9 – 7.6, 6+), “Sunny 95” was a combined -1.4 in September/October (7.6 – 6.9 – 6.2, 6+). Off a cumulative -2.4 in three successive downturns (6.9 – 6.7 – 6.3 – 4.5, 6+) and falling below a five-share for the first time since April 2016 (4.5, as well), co-owned WLVQ “Q-FM 96 Iconic Rock” applies the brakes with a +.4 to 4.9 (flat at #7, 6+). On one hand, iHeartMedia-owned WCOL  is #1 the 25^th sweep in a row but “92.3 Columbus’ #1 For New Country” spirals by -1.1 (10.9 – 9.8, 6+) and fails to reach double-digits (6+) for the first time since June 2017. WCOL was up a combined seven-tenths in August/September (10.8 – 11.2 – 11.5, 6+), just after its overall -2.2 in three straight declines (13.0 -11.7 – 11.1 – 10.8, 6+). Sample WCOL fluctuations include: -2.1 (“Holiday” 2018); +.8 (January 2019); +.7 (February); +1.2 (April); -1.3 (May); -.6 (June); -.8 (October); and -1.1 (December). On the heels of November’s +.9, co-owned CHR WNCI erodes by -1.5 (7.8 – 6.3, 6+), segueing from second to fourth. Entering the November sweep, “97.9 Columbus’ Hit Music Station” was an overall -1.7 in five straight down or flat moves (8.6 – 7.4 – 7.1 – 6.9 – 6.9 – 6.9, 6+). After being +.8 in October/November (3.2 – 3.3 – 4.0, 6+), co-owned urban contemporary WZCB “106.7 The Beat” forfeits seven-tenths to 3.3 (6+) and exits the top ten (#8 to #11). Radio One gospel WJYD netted nine-tenths in four successive increases (1.1 – 1.4 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 2.0, 6+) and had its strongest 6+-showing since May (2.0, as well) but “Joy 107.1” falters in December by one-half share to 1.5 (#14 to #15, 6+). Without an increase the fifth time in succession for a net loss of three-tenths and repeating at #16 (1.7 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.4 – 1.4, 6+), iHeartMedia classic rock WXZX “105.7 The Brew” has its lowest 6+-stat (1.4) since March (1.2).

December PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round Two

December 2019 PPM Data. Information for the December 2019 ratings period has been released for Washington (DC), Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis. Nielsen Audio’s December 2019 survey period covered November 7 – December 4. Managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” from the PPM-markets below.

Washington, DC

Spoken-Word Formats – Locked on 5.1 (6+) in September and October before notching a November gain of six-tenths, Cumulus Media news/talk WMAL drops two-tenths (5.7 – 5.5, fourth to sixth, 6+). March 2019’s 6.8 represents its best 6+-stat in the PPM-era. For the 17^th sweep in succession, Radio One’s WOL “News Talk – Where Information Is Power” is unlisted.

After logging six straight up or flat moves for an overall +1.7 (3.1 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 4.3 – 4.8, 6+), Entercom sports talk WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” erodes by -2.1 to 2.7 (6+) and fades from the top ten (#8 to #15). This -2.1 is the largest (6+) November 2019 – December decrease by any station in the 24 PPM-markets whose data has been released thus far. Conversely, the flagship of the 2019 World Series champion Nationals registered the highest 6+-share (4.8, November 2019) by any D.C. sports talk outlet in the PPM-era. Radio One’s similarly-formatted WTEM “980 The Team,” which gained one-half share in September/October (.6 – .9 – 1.1, 6+), repeats November’s 1.0 (#20 to #19, 6+). Even though Cumulus Media sports talk WSBN drops one-tenth (.3 – .2, 6+), “ESPN 630 AM The Sports Capitol” elevates from #29 to #26.

Down two-tenths (8.1 – 7.9, 6+) after November’s spike of seven-tenths, Hubbard Broadcasting all-news WTOP-FM downshifts from second to third. Before gaining one-tenth in August, WTOP-FM was an overall -2.5 in six successive down or flat sweeps (10.4 – 9.8 – 9.7 – 8.7 – 8.7 – 8.2 – 7.9, 6+). It segued to the runner-up slot in July following six straight months at #1. Entercom business news WDCH answers November’s loss of six-tenths with a December improvement of one-tenth (.5 – .6, #24 to #23, 6+).

Notwithstanding a one-tenth dip (8.9 – 8.8, 6+), American University-owned news/talk WAMU “The Mind Is Our Medium” is #1 the third time in a row. Its previous three fluctuations were -.8 (8.2 – 7.4, September, 6+); +.7 (7.4 – 8.1, October, 6+); and +.8 (8.1 – 8.9, November, 6+); November’s 8.9 was its best 6+-stat since March (8.9, as well).

Washington, DC Music Formats – A December uptick of +2.7 (5.4 – 8.1, 6+) enables iHeartMedia adult contemporary WASH “Variety of the 80s, 90s, & Today” to jump from fifth to second. WASH posted a 7.3 (6+) this time last year (December 2018). A combined +.8 in September/October (5.3 – 5.6 – 6.1, 6+), WASH forfeited seven-tenths in November. Erasing 75% of November’s -1.2 with a December +.9 (5.0 – 5.9, 6+), Atlantic Gateway Communications contemporary Christian WGTS jumps from seventh to fifth. Entering the November sweep, “91.9 Christian Music Radio” was an overall +2.0 in four straight up or flat moves (4.2 – 4.3 – 5.1 – 6.2 – 6.2, 6+). At the same time that Radio One urban AC WMMJ “Majic” gains two-tenths (7.4 – 7.6 third to fourth, 6+), Howard University’s similarly-programmed WHUR drops two-tenths (5.4 – 5.2, fifth to seventh, 6+). On a September-October-November rollercoaster ride, “Majic” was -.8 (8.2 – 7.4, September, 6+); +.6 (7.4 – 8.0, October, 6+); and -.6 (8.0 – 7.4, November, 6+). When WMMJ added two-tenths in July, it suspended three consecutive dips that resulted in a cumulative loss of seven-tenths (8.2 – 7.8 – 7.7 – 7.5, 6+). Meanwhile, WHUR added two-tenths in November to curtail five down or flat reports in a row that accounted for a collective -1.3 (6.5 – 6.1 – 6.1 – 5.9 – 5.8 – 5.2, 6+). Off one-tenth in back-to-back reports (6.5 – 6.4 – 6.3, 6+), WHUR regained that deficit with a May pickup of … two-tenths. While it is flat at #14, Entercom rhythmic CHR WPGC is down a cumulative nine-tenths in four straight down or flat trends and falls below a three-share (3.7 – 3.7 – 3.3 – 3.0 – 2.8, 6+).

Boston

Spoken-Word Formats – Following nine successive up or flat trends that netted a +1.8 (2.1 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 3.9, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WRKO “AM 680 – The Voice of Boston” has now lost seven-tenths in three consecutive reports without an increase (3.9 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.2, #11 to #12, 6+). Co-owned WXKS-AM “Talk 1200,” which faltered by roughly 57% (-.4) of its 6+ AQH share via three successive sweeps without an improvement (.7 – .4 – .3 – .3, 6+), ends the slide with a +.1 to .4 (#30 to #27, 6+).

An overall +2.5 in three bumps in a row (3.7 – 5.0 – 6.1 – 6.2, 6+), Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Patriots, Celtics, Bruins) relinquishes 44% of that increase in December (5.1, -1.1, third to fifth, 6+). November’s 6.2 was its best 6+-stat since May (7.0). Four consecutive sweeps without a loss by Entercom-owned WEEI-FM netted a +1.6 (3.3 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 4.4 – 4.9, 6+) but the Red Sox flagship surrenders three-tenths to 4.6 (sixth to seventh, 6+). November 2019’s 4.9 represents the strongest 6+-showing for WEEI-FM since its 5.7 in November 2018)

Albeit down an overall seven-tenths through four straight negative or neutral reports (5.5 – 5.3 – 5.2 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned news-talk hybrid WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” climbs from seventh to sixth.

On the heels of November’s +1.0 (3.5 – 4.5, 6+), Boston University news/talk WBUR sputters by six-tenths to 3.9 (6+) and repeats in eighth-place. Bouncing back from a November loss of six-tenths with a December gain of two-tenths (3.1 – 3.3, 6+), WGBH Educational Foundation news/talk WGBH progresses from #13 to #11. Its November decrease snapped at four its consecutive string of up or flat trends that yielded a +1.5 (2.2 – 2.2 – 2.8 – 3.0 – 3.7, 6+).

Boston Music Formats – By doubling November’s +1.1 with a December +2.2 (4.7 – 5.8 – 8.0, 6+), Entercom adult contemporary WMJX “Magic 106.7 – Today’s Hits/Yesterday’s Favorites” jumps from fourth to second. Its 8.0 (December 2019, 6+) compares to 8.9 (6+) in December 2018. Entering the November ratings period, “Magic” had a net loss of -2.2 via four decreases in a row (6.9 – 6.4 – 6.0 – 5.8 – 4.7, 6+). “Magic” was a combined +.8 in May/June (6.1 – 6.2 – 6.9, 6+). Pinging “Beantown” from Worcester (roughly 40 miles to the west), iHeartMedia adult contemporary WSRS doubles (+.6) November’s .6 to 1.2 (6+). “Worcester’s At-Work Station” checks in at #23 with its best 6+ Boston stat (1.2) since “Holiday” 2018’s 1.5. Up a combined six-tenths in November/December (2.0 – 2.1 – 2.6, 6+), co-owned WBWL “101.7 The Bull – New Hit Country” zooms from #16 to #11. Despite being off four-tenths (8.5 – 8.1, 6+), Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies WROR “105.7 – 80s & More” is #1 the ninth month in a row. October’s increase of three-tenths followed WROR’s combined -1.2 in August/September (8.8 – 7.7 – 7.6, 6+). Surrendering in full November’s half-share improvement (2.5 – 3.0 – 2.5, 6+), Northeast Broadcasting triple A WXRV “92.5 The River – Independent Radio” slips from #14 to #16. Off by one-half share as well is iHeartMedia urban AC WKAF, which has now lost more than 50% (-1.4) of its 6+-share via six negative or neutral reports in succession (2.7 – 2.6 – 2.4 – 2.2 – 1.8 – 1.3, 6+); “97.7 The Beat of Boston” exits the top twenty (#18 to #21). The August 2019 through December 2019 topline for CHR sibling WXKS-FM is: 6.3 – 6.3 – 6.5 – 6.4 – 6.5 (6+). “Kiss 108,” which had been in the runner-up slot the past six months, segues to third. With a +.3 in November (1.4 – 1.7, 6+), Entercom-owned/similarly-formatted WODS pulled the plug on nine survey periods in a row without an increase that led to a net loss of -1.1 or approximately 44% of its 6+ AQH share (2.5 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 1.8 – 1.6 – 1.4, 6+). In December, however, “103.3 Amp Radio” forfeits one-tenth to 1.6 (#19 to #20, 6+).

Miami

English-Language Spoken-Word Formats – A true model of consistency, iHeartMedia news/talk WIOD “News Radio 610 – Miami’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station” has an April 2019 through December 2019 topline of: 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.5 (unchanged at #16, 6+).

After nearly tripling its 6+ AQH share (+.7) through five consecutive increases (.5 – 6 – .7 – 1.0 – 1.2 – 1.4, 6+), Entercom-owned WQAM “560 The Joe” (Dolphins, Florida Panthers) drops one-tenth to 1.3 (6+) but continues at #23. It’s a fairly similar scenario for co-owned WAXY “Sports Talk 790 The Ticket” (Heat), which more than doubled its 6+-stat in October/November (.3 – .5 – .7, 6+) but forfeits one-tenth to .6 (#27 to #29, 6+).

Recapturing the one-tenth it lost in November (2.3 – 2.2 – 2.3, 6+), Dade County School Board news/talk WLRN inches up from #18 to #17.

Miami Music Formats – The market’s (6+) adult contemporary share balloons by +1.3 as Entercom-owned WLYF “101.5 Lite FM” is up eight-tenths and Apollo Global Management/Cox Media Group’s WFEZ “Easy 93.1” improves by one-half share. As a result of three up or flat moves in a row, “Lite FM” is an overall +1.3  (5.3 – 5.8 – 5.8 – 6.6, fourth to second, 6+) and has its best 6+-showing since February (6.6, as well). Stuck on 7.0 (6+) in September, October, and November, “Easy” now sits at 7.5 (6+) and is #1 the 12^th consecutive ratings period. “Easy” was down eight-tenths in February; up by that same magnitude in March; and notched an improvement of … eight-tenths in June. In addition to WLYF, Spanish Broadcasting System-owned Spanish tropical WXDJ logs a December 2019 gain of eight-tenths and cracks the top ten (3.6 – 4.4, #11 to #8, 6+). By notching a November improvement of one-tenth, “El Zol 106.7” interrupted eight straight negative or neutral reports that resulted in an overall -1.4 (4.9 – 4.8 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.0 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.5 – 3.5, 6+). Following November’s half-share increase, iHeartMedia-owned WBGG “Big 105.9 – South Florida’s Classic Rock” falters by -1.0 (4.3 – 3.3, 6+) and departs the top ten (#8 to #11). Prior to November, WBGG had been within 3.0 – 3.9 range (6+) in each of the previous 28 sweeps; it reached the four-share level (4.3, 6+) for the first time since August 2017’s 4.1 (6+). In three straight drops, Entercom classic hits-oldies WMXJ “102.7 The Beach” is a collective -1.0 (5.8 – 5.7 – 5.2 – 4.8, 6+) and is unchanged at #5. Without an increase the seventh successive month for a net loss of -1.0 (3.1 – 3.1 – 3.0 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 2.1, #18 to #19, 6+), co-owned WKIS “Kiss Country 99.9” records its lowest 6+-stat since October 2017 (2.1, as well). Up seven-tenths via three upticks in a row (3.0 – 3.1 – 3.5 – 3.7, 6+), Apollo Global Management/Cox Media Group CHR WFLC “Hits 97.3” falters by three-tenths in November to 3.4 (ninth to tenth, 6+). WFLC has a four-tenths advantage over iHeartMedia-owned/similarly-formatted WHYI “Y-100 Miami’s #1 Hit Music Station,” a combined -.4 in November/December (3.4 – 3.1 – 3.0, #14 to #13, 6+), directly after netting eight-tenths in four straight up or flat trends (2.6 – 2.8 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 3.4, 6+).

Seattle

Spoken-Word Formats – When Bonneville-owned KIRO-FM dropped one-tenth in November (5.0 – 4.9, 6+), it managed to advance from fourth to third. Now that it regains that one-tenth (4.9 – 5.0, 6+), “97.3 Seattle’s News/Seattle’s Talk” backshifts from third to fourth. On the plus side, December’s increase suspends three successive sweeps without an increase that accounted for a net loss of two-tenths (5.1 – 5.0 – 5.0 – 4.9, 6+). News/talk cluster-mate KTTH “Conservative Talk Radio,” which picked up three-tenths in three straight up or flat moves (1.5 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 1.8, 6+), surrenders two-tenths to 1.6 (#22 to #23, 6+). Having posted a gain of two-tenths in back-to-back reports (.8 – 1.0 – 1.2, 6+), Sinclair Broadcast Group-owned KVI “Talk Radio 570” is off one-tenth to 1.1 (6+) but stays at #25.

Albeit down two-tenths (3.9 – 3.7, 6+), Bonneville sports talk KIRO-AM “ESPN 710” (Seahawks) repeats at #11.

September’s increase of seven-tenths halted four straight down or flat trends that resulted in a collective -1.3 (4.3 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.0 – 3.0, 6+). More than quadrupling (+1.6) its 6+ AQH share in five straight up or flat moves (.5 – .8 – 1.3 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 2.1, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KJR-AM “Seattle’s Sports Radio 950” advances from #23 to #22.

Locked on 3.1 (6+) in October and November, Sinclair Broadcast Group all-news KOMO dips one-tenth to 3.0 (flat at #14, 6+); August’s 3.2 was its best 6+-stat since November 2017’s 3.4.

Even though KUOW nets a +1.6 via three straight upticks (4.5 – 5.0 – 5.5 – 6.1, 6+) – completely expunging its collective -1.6 through four consecutive decreases (6.1 – 5.6 – 5.5 – 5.2 – 4.5, 6+) – the Northwest Public Radio news/talk outlet downshifts from second to third.

Seattle Music Formats – Not only does Hubbard Broadcasting adult contemporary KRWM replace November’s loss of two-tenths with a December improvement nine-times that magnitude (4.8 – 6.6, +1.8, 6+), “Warm 106.9” vaults from fifth to first. By way of comparison, KRWM logged an 8.8 in December 2018 (6+). Entering the November report, “Warm” was up a collective seven-tenths in three consecutive reports without a decrease (4.3 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 5.0, 6+). As a result of three setbacks in a row, Entercom’s similarly-formatted KSWD “94.1 The Sound” is a combined -1.4 (5.5 – 5.2 – 4.4 – 4.1, eighth to ninth, 6+). This directly follows its +1.1 in August/September (4.4 – 5.4 – 5.5, 6+). “The Sound” and “Warm” were separated by one-tenth in May (4.5 – 4.4, 6+); June (4.5 – 4.4, as well, 6+); and July (4.4 – 4.3, 6+). After three successive months at #1, Hubbard Broadcasting CHR KQMV “MOViN’ 92.5 – Seattle’s #1 Hit Music Station” (7.8 – 6.4, -1.4, 6+) segues to second-place. An overall -1.0 in four down or flat trends in a row (7.0 – 6.8 – 6.8 – 6.6 – 6.0, 6+), KQMV ended the slump in June with a gain of one-tenth. “MOViN’” made it to #1 in April, the first time it reached the lead spot since November 2018. Recording positive spikes of seven-tenths each are iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KJR-FM “95.7 The Jet” (tenth to sixth) and Sinclair Broadcast Group hot AC KPLZ “Star 101.5 – Today’s Best Mix” (#17 to #13). “The Jet” (3.8 – 4.1 – 4.8, 6+) and “Star” (2.4 – 2.7 – 3.4, 6+) are both +1.0 in November/December. Following four straight down or flat moves that accounted for a cumulative -1.3 (4.3 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.4 – 3.0, 6+), Entercom’s KNDD “107.7 The End Alternative Seattle” chalks up a half-share increase to 3.5 (#15 to #12, 6+). Off eight-tenths in November/December (4.7 – 4.6 – 3.9, 6+), iHeartMedia adult hits KJAQ “96.5 Jack FM – Playing What We Want” falls below a four-share (sixth to tenth, 3.9, 6+) for the first time since May’s 3.7. Hubbard Broadcasting-owned KNUC “New Country 98.9 The Bull” is an overall -1.5 in three drops in a row (4.4 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 2.9, #12 to #16, 6+). After more than doubling (+2.2) its 6+ AQH share in eight successive up or flat sweeps (2.1 – 2.1 – 2.4 – 2.8 – 3.3 – 3.5 – 4.0 – 4.2 – 4.3, 6+), “The Bull” surrendered one-tenth in August and gained two-tenths in September. Its format foe – Entercom’s KKWF “100.7 The Wolf #1 For Country” –  is down one-half share in November/December (4.9 – 4.6 – 4.4, sixth to seventh, 6+), immediately after three straight increases yielded eight-tenths (4.1 – 4.3 – 4.6 – 4.9, 6+).

Detroit

Spoken-Word Formats – Four straight gains by Cumulus Media’s WJR (Lions) led to a +1.1 (2.0 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.9 – 3.1, 6+) but “News Talk 760” falters by nine-tenths to 2.2 (#15 to #18, 6+). The just-concluded positive streak trailed six consecutive reports without an increase that resulted in a -1.7 (3.7 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.1 – 2.6 – 2.0, 6+).

In an analogous course of events, Entercom sports talk WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (Pistons, Red Wings) was a collective +1.6 in three straight upticks (3.9 – 4.3 – 4.7 – 5.5, 6+) but falters by seven-tenths to 4.8 (sixth to seventh, 6+). “The Ticket” had been an overall -1.5 through three successive decreases (5.4 – 4.7 – 4.5 – 3.9, 6+).

Three successive downturns by co-owned WWJ resulted in an overall -1.5 (5.9 – 5.4 – 5.1 – 4.4, 6+) but “News Radio 950” ends the slide with a December increase of two-tenths to 4.6 (ninth to eighth, 6+). WWJ was #1 in March and posted a +1.1 in August.

Anchored at #20, Michigan Public Media news/talk WUOM has a June 2019 through December 2019 topline of: 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 2.1 – 1.9 – 2.0 – 1.6 (6+). Prior to September, WUOM last reached the two-share level (6+) in November 2017 (2.1, as well). Up a collective half-share as a result of four successive modest gains (1.0 – 1.2 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.5, 6+), Wayne State University news/talk WDET forfeits one-tenth to 1.4 (#21 to #22, 6+).

Detroit Music Formats – Winning ways continue for iHeartMedia adult contemporary WNIC “100.3 The Best Variety of the 80s, 90s, & Today,” which is +3.9 through four successive spikes (5.6 – 5.9 – 6.0 – 6.2 – 9.5, 6+) and repeats at #1. At this time last year, WNIC flashed a 12.2 (December 2018, 6+). Its “Holiday” 2018 17.9 is the largest 6+ AQH share by any Detroit station in the PPM-era. On top in December 2018 and “Holiday” 2018, WNIC more than tripled (+12.2) its 6+-share via four straight increases (5.7 – 6.2 – 6.6 – 12.2 – 17.9, 6+). On the other hand, Entercom-owned/similarly formatted WDZH “98.7 The Breeze” is a combined -1.1 in November/December (4.2 – 4.0 – 3.1, #13 to #15, 6+) and has its softest 6+-stat (3.1) since January’s 2.9. Trending 5.9 – 5.7 – 5.8 – 5.7 (August 2019 through November 2019, 6+), its classic hits-oldies sibling, WOMC “104.3 Detroit’s Greatest Hits,” improves by one-half share to 6.2 (third to second, 6+), its best 6+-performance since November 2018’s 7.0. Making modest November 2019 – December 2019 increases are cluster-mate WYCD “99.5 Detroit Country Music” (4.5, +.1, repeating at #9, 6+) and Cumulus Media’s similarly-formatted WDRQ “93.1 Nash FM” (2.9, +.2, #17 to #16, 6+). WYCD had lost nine-tenths in five consecutive sweeps without an increase (5.3 – 4.8 – 4.6 – 4.6 – 4.6 – 4.4, 6+); WDRQ dropped one-tenth in back-to-back reports (2.9 – 2.8 – 2.7, 6+), directly after posting seven consecutive up or flat trends for an overall +1.3 (1.6 – 1.9 – 2.4 – 2.6 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 2.9, 6+). Not only does iHeartMedia urban contemporary WJLB falter by four-tenths to 4.0 (6+), thus halting four straight bumps that resulted in a +1.3 (3.1 – 3.5 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 4.4, 6+), “97.9 – Detroit’s Hip-Hop and R&B” departs the top ten (#9 to #12). The just-concluded streak immediately trailed four straight survey periods without an increase that led to a -1.0 (4.1 – 3.9 – 3.3 – 3.1 – 3.1, 6+). Radio One gospel WDMK-HD2 posted a .8 (6+) in October; disappeared from print in November; and resurfaces in December with a 1.1 (#22, 6+).

Phoenix

Spoken-Word Formats – Off four-tenths (4.0 – 3.6, 6+), Bonneville news/talk KTAR-FM (Arizona Cardinals) slips from sixth to seventh. From May through September, iHeartMedia’s KFYI was a collective -.9 (3.1 – 2.8 – 2.5 – 2.4 – 2.2, 6+). “News Talk 550” was then +.5 (October); -.2 (November); and now +.3 in November (2.5 – 2.8, #16 to #14, 6+).

A combined -1.0 in June/July (3.1 – 2.2 – 2.1, 6+) and then +1.0 via three straight up or flat trends (2.1 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 3.1, 6+), Bonneville sports talk KMVP-FM “98.7 Arizona Sports” (Suns, Arizona Coyotes) drops six-tenths in November/December (3.1 – 3.0 – 2.5, #13 to #17, 6+). Meanwhile, co-owned KTAR-AM returns the three-tenths it picked up in November (.3 – .6 – .3, #30, 6+).

This is the fifth consecutive report without a loss for Maricopa County Community College news/talk KJZZ, which is up six-tenths in that stretch (3.4 – 3.4 – 3.6 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.0, 6+) and climbs from seventh to fifth.

Phoenix Music Formats – Tacking on a whopping +3.9 to November’s +.1 (7.0 – 7.1 – 11.0, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary KESZ is #1 the sixth time in a row. This (11.0) is its best 6+-performance since “Holiday” 2018’s 15.0; KESZ notched a 9.7 (6+) in December 2018. September’s decrease suspended five consecutive improvements that netted a +1.7 (5.3 – 5.5 – 5.9 – 6.5 – 6.8 – 7.0, 6+). An increase of eight-tenths by Entercom classic hits-oldies KOOL (5.8 – 6.6, fourth to third, 6+) precisely doubles what it logged in December 2018 (3.3, 6+). Stuck on 4.1 (6+) in October and November, Hubbard Broadcasting-owned KUPD “Arizona’s Real Rock” falters by nine-tenths to 3.2 (6+) and drops from fifth to ninth. Sputtering by nine-tenths as well is iHeartMedia’s KNIX “102.5 Today’s Best Country & All-Time Favorites,” which has plummeted by -2.2 in three setbacks in succession (5.2 – 4.3 – 3.9 – 3.0, 6+), and departs the top ten (#7 to #12). It is tied with Entercom’s similarly-programmed KMLE “Country 107.9” (3.0, -.3, flat at #12, 6+), which was a combined +.5 in October/November (2.8 – 2.9 – 3.3, 6+). Frozen on 1.7 (6+) in October and November Univision Radio Spanish contemporary KQMR “Latino Mix 100.3” relinquishes one-half share to 1.2 (#27, 6+).

Minneapolis

Spoken-Word Formats – A bump of one-tenth (4.2 – 4.3, 6+) is sufficient to propel Entercom-owned WCCO “News Radio 830” (Minnesota Timberwolves) back into the top ten (#12 to #10). November’s -1.8 curtailed three straight up or flat moves that yielded seven-tenths (5.3 – 5.9 – 6.0 – 6.0, 6+). Three consecutive gains provided Hubbard Broadcasting news/talk KTMY with a collective +.5 (2.5 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 3.0, 6+) but “My Talk 107.1” relinquishes 40% of that increase (2.8, -.2, flat at #14, 6+). Repeating at #15, iHeartMedia’s KTLK “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130,” which gained six-tenths in August, is off one-half share in November/December (3.1 – 2.9 – 2.6, 6+).

Over and above being a cumulative +3.9 in eight straight positive or neutral moves (3.9 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.3 – 5.3 – 6.1 – 6.8 – 7.3 – 7.8, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KFXN “Sports Radio 100.3 K-Fan” (Minnesota Vikings, Minnesota Wild) marches from third to first. While steady at #22, Hubbard Broadcasting sports talk KSTP-AM “ESPN 1500” drops one-tenth to .8 (6+), thus suspending three sweeps in a row without a loss that yielded three-tenths (.6 – .7 – .9 – .9, 6+).

Off two-tenths in three straight sweeps without an increase (6.5 – 6.4 – 6.3 – 6.3, 6+), Minnesota Public Radio news/talk KNOW busts out a +.5 to 6.8 (6+) yet backshifts from fourth to fifth.

Minneapolis Music Formats – A November/December +1.3 by iHeartMedia-owned classic hits-oldies KQQL “Kool 108” (5.7 – 5.9 – 7.0, fifth to fourth, 6+) wipes away all but one-half share of its overall -1.8 from three decreases in a row (7.5 – 7.0 – 6.5 – 5.7, 6+). Before logging a +1.0 in May, KQQL had approximately 54% (-6.8) of its 6+ AQH share vanish through four straight negative or flat trends (12.6 – 6.3 – 6.3 – 6.3 – 5.8, 6+). Ousted from the penthouse in June by Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC KSTP-FM, “Kool 108” returned the favor in July, but was (again) dislodged by KSTP-FM in August. Cumulus Media-owned KQRS “Minnesota’s Classic Rock” is a combined +.8 in November/December (5.4 – 5.6 – 6.2, unchanged at #6, 6+) and reaches the six-share level (6.2, 6+) for the first time since May (6.8). Via five straight down or flat moves, rock cluster-mate KXXR was a collective -1.4 (6.4 – 6.1 – 6.1 – 5.5 – 5.3 – 5.0, 6+) but “93-X” pulls the plug with a +.2 to 5.2 (eighth to seventh, 6+). Holding or sharing the top spot in January, March, April, June, August, September, October, and November, (aforementioned) Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC KSTP-FM “KS-95” is down two-tenths (7.6 – 7.4, 6+) and segues to #2. KSTP-FM was +1.9 (January); -.8 (February); +.6 (March); +.5 (April); -.8 (May); and +1.1 (August). Similarly-formatted/iHeartMedia-owned KTCZ “Cities 97.1,” which logged a September 2019 – October 2019 increase of one-half share (4.5 – 5.0, 6+), falters by seven-tenths in back-to-back sweeps (5.0 – 4.3 – 3.6, #11 to #12, 6+). Shifts this year for “Cities 97.1” include +1.2 (January) -.5 (February); +.5 (April); +.6 (July); -.9 (August); +5 (October); -.7 (November); and -.7 (December). In four straight positive or neutral moves, Minnesota Public Radio’s KSJN was a collective +1.1 (2.4 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 3.1 – 3.5, 6+) but “Classical MPR” craters by -1.4 to 2.1 (#13 to #18). A loss of seven-tenths (4.4 – 3.7, 6+) sends iHeartMedia-owned KEEY “K-102 Minnesota’s Country Station” off the top ten (#10 to #11) and below a four-share (3.7, 6+). Its format competitor, Entercom’s KMNB “102.9 The Wolf,” was up six-tenths in September/October (2.8 – 3.1 – 3.4, 6+) but is off eight-tenths in November/December (3.4 – 2.7 – 2.6, #16 to #15, 6+). An overall +1.9 in three straight upticks (5.5 – 6.0 – 6.5 – 7.4, 6+), University of Northwestern St. Paul contemporary Christian KTIS-FM “Always Uplifting” slips by one-tenth to 7.3 (second to third, 6+). KTIS-FM was up a combined three-tenths in June/July (6.1 – 6.2 – 6.4, 6+) but lost nine-tenths in August.

San Diego

Spoken-Word Formats – Having posted a 5.0 (6+) in three of the last four sweeps (5.0 – 4.3 – 5.0 – 5.0, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk KOGO “News Radio 600” slumps six-tenths to 4.4 (sixth to eighth, 6+). Some recent KOGO fluctuations include: +1.0 via three straight February through May increases; a combined -.5 in June/July; +.5 (August); -.7 (September); +.7 (October); and -.6 (December). Tegna news/talk KFMB-AM is off one-half share via four consecutive down or flat moves (2.5 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.1 – 2.0, #19 to #20, 6+). “AM 760” was an overall -.6 via three slips in succession (2.5 – 2.3 – 2.0 – 1.9, 6+), but erased that deficit in August with a +.6 to 2.5 (6+). Recapturing the one-tenth it lost in November (1.7 – 1.6 – 1.7, 6+), iHeartMedia Los Angeles news/talk KFI “AM 640” continues at #22.

Up two-tenths in back-to-back reports (1.9 – 2.1 – 2.3, 6+), Entercom-owned sports talk KWFN “97.3 The Fan” carries on at #19. In six successive reports without a loss, iHeartMedia’s KLSD “Fox Sports 1360 San Diego’s Sports Station” nearly doubles (+.7) its 6+ AQH share (.8 – .8 – .8 – 1.2 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.5, #23 to #22, 6+).

A collective +.4 in four straight reports without a loss (5.9 – 6.0 – 6.2 – 6.3 – 6.3, 6+), San Diego State University-owned news/talk KPBS forfeits three-tenths to 6.0 (6+) and segues from first to second. Before falling to third in July, KPBS was on top the previous six months.

San Diego Music Formats – Not only does KYXY log a +2.9 (3.7 – 6.6, 6+), the Entercom adult contemporary outlet catapults from tenth all the way to first. This time last year, KYXY logged a 5.8 (December 2018, 6+). A combined +1.1 in November/December (2.1 – 2.5 – 3.2, 6+), Uniradio regional Mexican XHTY “Invasora 99.7” jumps from #17 to #12 with its best 6+-stat (3.2) in exactly one year (3.4, December 2018). Faltering by eight-tenths each are Local Media of San Diego-programmed CHR XHTZ “Z-90.3 Today’s Hit Music” (4.1 – 3.3, ninth to tenth, 6+) and Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KLQV “Amor 102.9” (3.2 – 2.4, #13 to #16, 6+), which has its lowest 6+-showing (2.4) since April’s 2.0. Off by six-tenths each are Entercom’s KSON “103.7 San Diego’s #1 New Country” (4.3 – 3.7, eighth to ninth, 6+) and iHeartMedia urban contemporary KSSX “JAM’N 95.7” (2.9, #11 to #14, 6+). The latter had been an overall +1.0 via three straight increases (2.5 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 3.5, 6+). A collective -1.5 in five downturns in succession (4.5 – 4.4 – 4.3 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.0, 6+), co-owned KGB-FM “101.5 San Diego’s Classic Rock” slips from #12 to #13. When KGB-FM posted a 3.5 (6+) in October, it marked the first time since “Holiday” 2018’s 3.8 that the station had fallen below a four-share. Also in that iHeartMedia cluster, even though KIOZ has lost nine-tenths through four down or flat trends in a row (3.3 – 3.0 – 2.9 – 2.4 – 2.4, 6+), “Rock 105.3” progresses from #18 to #16. The wild ride continues for Univision Radio regional Mexican KLNV “Que Buena 106.5,” which was +1.0 in four consecutive up or flat moves (5.0 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 5.5 – 6.0, 6+); -1.7 via three consecutive dips (6.0 – 5.8 – 4.4 – 4.3, 6+); +.7 in November; and now -.3 in December (5.0 – 4.7, sixth to seventh, 6+).

Tampa

Spoken-Word Formats – In an alternating September 2019 through December 2019 down/up pattern (2.8 – 2.7 – 3.3 – 3.1, 6+), Apollo Global Management/Cox Media Group news/talk WHPT repeats at #14. Entering the October sweep, “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” gained one-half share through four consecutive up or flat trends (2.3 – 2.6 – 2.6 – 2.8 – 2.8, 6+). Off -1.0 in three setbacks in a row (3.8 – 3.6 – 3.2 – 2.8, 6+), immediately after three successive increases netted eight-tenths (3.0 – 3.4 – 3.6 – 3.8, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WFLA “970 Tampa Bay’s News Radio” slips from #15 to #16.

Owing to three drops in a row, iHeartMedia-owned sports talk WDAE “620 Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” (Buccaneers) has lost an overall seven-tenths (2.6 – 2.6 – 2.0 – 1.9, 6+) and falls from #19 to #20 with its lowest 6+-showing (1.9) since 1.7 in March.

Up eight-tenths as a result of three consecutive bumps (1.7 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 2.2 – 2.5, 6+), University of South Florida news/talk WUSF repeats at #18.

Tampa Music Formats – In addition to adding a +1.2 to November’s +.7 (7.9 – 8.6 – 9.8, 6+), Apollo Global Management/Cox Media Group adult contemporary WDUV “Lite Favorites” is #1 the 88^th straight time and virtually purges October’s -2.0. WDUV was up seven-tenths in September (9.2 – 9.9, 6+) and faltered by seven-tenths in June. WDUV’s 13.7 in “Holiday” 2018 is the highest 6+-stat by any Tampa station since its 14.9 in “Holiday” 2015; “Lite Favorites” was 10.8 (6+) in December 2018. Flashing identical November 2019 – December 2019 (5.3 – 5.8, +.5, fourth to second, 6+) profiles are WDUV cluster-mate WXGL “107.3 The Eagle – Tampa Bay’s Classic Hits” and Radio Training Network contemporary Christian WCIE “The Joy FM.” It has been a seesaw lately for “The Eagle,” which was an overall +1.0 through three improvements in a row (5.1 – 5.4 – 6.0 – 6.1, 6+); -.8 in November; and now +.5 in December. Just prior, “The Eagle” was a cumulative -2.4 in four straight negative or neutral moves, (7.5 – 6.6 – 6.6 – 5.7 – 5.1, 6+). Meanwhile, “The Joy FM” is up a combined six-tenths in November/December (5.2 – 5.3 – 5.8, 6+). An overall +1.1 via six successive up or flat trends through August (3.6 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 4.0 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.7, 6+), Beasley Media Group rhythmic CHR WLLD “Wild 94.1” has since been -.3 (September); +.5 (October); -.6 (November); and -.7 in December (4.3 – 3.6, #9 to #12, 6+). Tied in seventh-place are WLLD cluster-mate WQYK “99.5 Tampa Bay’s New Country Hits” (4.6, +.2, eighth to seventh, 6+) and iHeartMedia’s WFUS “US-103.5 Tampa Bay’s #1 for New Country” (flat at #7). By gaining two-tenths, WQYK applies the brakes to four drops in succession that accounted for a -2.2 (6.6 – 6.3 – 6.1 – 4.9 – 4.4, 6+). Meanwhile, “US-103.5 “ is up seven-tenths in three straight bumps (3.9 – 4.3 – 4.5 – 4.6, 6+). October’s improvement interrupted three straight slips that resulted in a cumulative loss of eight-tenths (4.7 – 4.6 – 4.4 – 3.9, 6+), Prior to September 2019 (3.9), the last time WFUS dropped below a four-share (6+) was September 2017 (3.8, 6+).

Denver

Spoken-Word Formats – Ever since debuting in June, iHeartMedia news/talk KDFD has posted six upticks in a row for a +2.7 (.1 – .2 – .8 – 1.1 – 2.1 – 2.6 – 2.8, 6+); “Freedom 93.7 – Real News, Real Talk” pushes up from #17 to #15. News/talk cluster-mate KOA “Colorado’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station” (Broncos) repeats November’s 2.5 (#18 to #17, 6+). Its November gain of one-tenth ended at four a consecutive string of decreases that accounted for an approximately 54% erosion (-2.6) of its 6+ AQH share (5.2 – 5.0 – 4.0 – 3.0 – 2.4, 6+). Co-owned KHOW lost one-half share via four successive down or flat reports (1.5 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.0 – 1.0, 6+) but “Talk Radio 630” ends the slide with an improvement of two-tenths to 1.2 (flat at #23, 6+).

An overall +1.3 through four gains in a row (2.4 – 2.5 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 3.7, 6+), Bonneville-owned KKFN “Sports Radio 104.3 The Fan” (Nuggets) is now a combined -1.2 in November/December (3.7 – 3.2 – 2.5, #14 to #17, 6+). In three drops in a row, KSE Radio Ventures’ KKSE-FM (Colorado Avalanche) has lost exactly half (-.7) its 6+-stat (1.4 – 1.3 – .9 – .7, #24 to #26, 6+); “Attitude Sports Radio 92.5” was +1.0 in September.

In an alternating down/up pattern since August (5.1 – 4.9 – 5.4 – 5.3 – 6.3, 6+), Colorado Public Radio news/talk KCFR repeats in the runner-up slot with its best 6+-stat (6.3) since April’s 6.5. KCFR has been -1.6 (June); +.8 (July); +.5 (October); and now +1.0 (December). After being up three-tenths in three straight sweeps without a loss (.5 – .5 – .7 – .8, 6+), Community Radio for Northern Colorado news/talk KUNC drops two-tenths to .6 (#26 to #29, 6+).

Denver Music Formats – Following five successive down or flat reports that resulted in a collective loss of one-half share (4.6 – 4.5 – 4.5 – 4.5 – 4.1 – 4.1, 6+), Bonneville adult contemporary KOSI roars back with a combined +2.6 in November/December (4.1 – 4.2 – 6.7, 6+), rocketing from ninth to first. In December 2018, “101.1 Real Music Variety” posted a 7.6 (6+). It is a November-only stay at #1 for iHeartMedia’s KRFX  (5.9, -.2, first to third, 6+). Furthermore, “Classic Rock 103.5 The Fox” concludes four successive up or flat trends that generated a collective four-tenths (5.7 – 5.9 – 5.9 – 5.9 – 6.1, 6+). This is the sixth successive report without a decrease for Colorado Public Radio classical-formatted KVOD, which has nearly tripled (+1.7) its 6+-stat in that stretch (.9 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 2.5 – 2.6, #18 to #16, 6+). Faltering by nine-tenths each are iHeartMedia triple A KBCO “97.3 World Class Rock” (3.9, fifth to ninth, 6+) and Entercom-owned classic rock KQMT “The Mountain” (4.7 – 3.8, sixth to tenth, 6+). “World Class Rock had been trending 4.8 – 4.9 – 4.8 – 4.8 (6+). After reaching #1 in August, “The Mountain” was a combined -1.6 in September/October (6.2 – 5.6 – 4.6, 6+). Its successive string of positive or neutral moves that produced a +1.5 ended at five (4.7 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 5.6 – 5.6 – 6.2, 6+). August 2019’s 6.2 was the highest 6+-stat for KQMT since 6.6 in August 2018. Off nine-tenths in three successive dips (3.7 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 2.8, 6+), iHeartMedia’s country-formatted KWBL picked up one-tenth in November, but “106.7 The Bull” squanders one-half share in December (2.9 – 2.4, #15 to #19, 6+). July’s 3.7 was KWBL’s highest 6+-stat since it switched to country in mid-December 2017. Bonneville’s similarly-programmed KYGO is a combined -1.2 in three straight setbacks (6.2 – 6.1 – 5.3 – 5.0, second to fourth, 6+). KYGO occupied the top spot in June, July, September, and October. After gaining eight-tenths in three consecutive sweeps without a loss (4.1 – 4.3 – 4.3 – 4.9, 6+), Entercom hot AC KALC “Alice 105.9” forfeits four-tenths to 4.5 (fourth to sixth, 6+).

Baltimore

Spoken-Word Formats – Owing to five consecutive upticks, Hearst Television’s news/talk WBAL (Ravens) is an overall +1.4 (1.8 – 2.2 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.9 – 3.2, #12 to #11, 6+). Furthermore, “News Radio – Expect More” posts its strongest 6+-stat (3.2) since March 2018’s 3.3. Despite being up three-tenths (2.1 – 2.4, 6+), similarly-formatted independent news/talk WCBM “680 Stimulating Talk – Breaking News” downshifts from #13 to #14.

Within 4.2 – 4.9 range (6+) in each of the last nine ratings periods, Entercom sports talk WJZ-FM is up a collective seven-tenths in three straight positive or neutral reports (4.2 – 4.3 – 4.3 – 4.9, ninth to eighth, 6+); “105.7 The Fan” has its best 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2018 (4.9, as well).

WJZ-FM’s business news sibling WDCH, which lost more than 60% of its 6+ AQH share in November (1.3 – .5, -.8, 6+), regains two-tenths to .7 (#27 to #23, 6+).

After netting +1.2 through four successive increases (2.6 – 3.3 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 3.8, 6+), Your Public Radio news/talk WYPR “88.1 Your NPR News Station” is off two-tenths to 3.6 (flat at #10, 6+). Down or flat in four straight Baltimore reports that led to a loss of one-half share (1.2 – 1.2 – 1.2 – .8 – .7, 6+), American University-owned news/talk WAMU picks up one-tenth in back-to-back reports (.7 – .8 – .9, steady at #21, 6+).

Baltimore Music Formats – The market’s (6+) adult contemporary swells by +3.4 as Entercom’s WLIF “Today’s 101.9” hangs out a +2.0 (7.9, fourth to second, 6+) and iHeartMedia Washington, DC’s WASH is +1.4 (2.5, #18 to #13, 6+). Stuck on 5.9 (6+) in October and November, WLIF posted a 10.1 (6+) in December 2018. Prior to December’s 2.5 (6+), WASH had been trending 1.1 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.1 – 1.1 (July – August – September – October – November, 6+) in the Baltimore report; it notched a 2.1 (6+) in December 2018. The three most recent fluctuations by Radio One urban AC WWIN-FM are -.8 (October); +.6 (November); and -.9 in December (8.9 – 8.0, 6+); “Magic 95.9” is #1 the seventh successive month. A combined +1.8 in June/July (7.3 – 8.1 – 9.1, 6+), “Magic” reached the nine-share level (9.1, 6+, July) for the first time since January’s 9.0. In four drops in a row, co-owned urban contemporary WERQ is a collective -2.3 (8.4 – 7.5 – 7.4 – 6.9 – 6.1, 6+). After being in the runner-up slot the last six months, “92-Q Jams” slips to third. Entercom gospel WLIF-HD2 lost 65% (-1.3) of its 6+ AQH share in four consecutive slips (2.0 – 1.9 – 1.5 – 1.0 – .7, 6+) but concludes the slide with a +.1 to .8 (#23 to #22, 6+). Dropping six-tenths each are iHeartMedia’s WPOC “93.1 Today’s Best Country” (6.1, unchanged at #3, 6+) and CHR cluster-mate WZFT “Z-104.3 Baltimore’s #1 Hit Music Station” (#11 to #12). WPOC had been up one-half share in October/November (6.2 – 6.4 – 6.7, 6+), while “Z104.3” is off nine-tenths in November/December (3.7 – 3.4 – 2.8, 6+). Slipping from sixth to seventh, adult hits sibling WQSR “102.7 Jack FM Playing What We  Want” has its third decrease in succession for a collective -1.1 (6.2 – 5.7 – 5.6 – 5.1, 6+). Following five consecutive Baltimore sweeps without a loss for a net gain of one-half share (.7 – .8 – .8 – .9 – 1.1 -1.2, 6+), co-owned WBIG “Big 100 – Washington’s Classic Rock Station” forfeits two-tenths to 1.0 (#16 to #18, 6+). This is the 17^th sweep in a row that 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 – Not only is Entercom news/talk KMOX a combined -2.7 in November/December (7.2 – 4.7 – 4.5, 6+), “The Voice of St. Louis” exits the top ten (#9 to #11). KMOX was an overall -2.3 in four successive April through August losses (7.3 – 6.6 – 6.2 – 5.2 – 5.0, 6+) and then +2.2 in September/October (5.0 – 6.4 – 7.2, 6+). Co-owned KFTK “FM News Talk 97.1,” which was a collective +1.3 in four consecutive sweeps without a loss (2.3 – 2.8 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 3.6, 6+), surrenders three-tenths to 3.3 (#16 to #17, 6+).

As a result of four straight spikes (3.1 – 3.3 – 3.7 – 4.0 – 4.9, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting sports talk WXOS was a cumulative +1.8, but “101 Sports” relinquishes one-third of that increase (4.3, -.6, 6+) and drifts from the top ten (#7 to #12).

University of Missouri news/talk KWMU repeats November’s 4.0 (6+) and progresses from #15 to #13.

St. Louis Music Formats – Entercom adult contemporary KEZK “102.5 The Best Mix of the 80s & Today” is a whopping +4.2 via four upticks in a row (4.7 – 5.6 – 5.9 – 6.2 – 8.9, 6+) and pushes up from third to second. In December 2018, KEZK notched a 9.8 (6+). Over and above being an overall +2.2 in four consecutive bumps (8.6 – 9.3 – 9.5 – 9.8 – 10.8, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting-owned KSHE “95 Real Rock Radio” is #1 the eighth consecutive month and hits double-digits (10.8, 6+) for the first time in the PPM-era. In February, KSHE was tied at the top with iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KLOU and took sole possession of first-place the following month. “Real Rock Radio” had to share the lead again in April but that time, it was with Entercom news/talk KMOX. Some of KSHE’s recent shifts include: +2.0 (January 2019); -.5 (February); +1.3 (March); -1.6 (April); +.9 (June); +.7 (September); and +1.0 (November). A combined +1.0 in November/December (4.1 – 4.5 – 5.1, 6+), Radio One urban contemporary WHHL “Hot 104.1” vaults from tenth to fourth and reaches the five-share level (5.1, 6+) for the first time since May 2017’s 5.0. Regaining the one-half share it lost in November (4.9 – 4.4 – 4.9, 6+) Gateway Creative Broadcasting contemporary Christian KLJY “99.1 Joy FM” re-enters the top ten (#12 to #6). Down nine-tenths (5.6 – 4.7, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting’s WIL “New Country 92.3” falls from fourth to ninth. The +1.3 (6+) advantage it held in November over iHeartMedia-owned/similarly-formatted KSD “93.7 The Bull – #1 For New Country” is reduced to one-tenth as KSD gains three-tenths to 4.6 (#13 to #10, 6+). With the increase, “The Bull” pulls the plug on three consecutive declines that led to a loss of seven-tenths (5.0 – 4.6 – 4.4 – 4.3, 6+). Up four-tenths in October/November (4.1 – 4.4. – 4.5, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR KSLZ “Z-107.7 St. Louis’ #1 Hit Music Station” falters by eight-tenths to 3.7 (6+) and fades from the top ten (#10 to #15). In three straight dips, Hubbard Broadcasting’s KPNT “105.7 The Point – Everything Alternative” erodes by -1.2 and falls below a five-share (6.0 – 5.6 – 5.4 – 4.8, fifth to eighth, 6+). Even though co-owned adult hits WARH is without an increase the past three sweeps for a net loss of six-tenths (5.6 – 5.5 – 5.0 – 5.0, 6+), “106.5 The Arch” advances from sixth to fifth.