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September 2020 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round Four

TALKERS | October 3, 2020

September 2020 PPM Data – Information for the September 2020 ratings period has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen Audio’s September 2020 survey period covered August 13 – September 9.

Managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” for spoken-word formats from these 12 PPM-markets.

AUSTIN

News/Talk

Instantly after regressing in August by seven-tenths to 5.0 (6+), Waterloo Media Group-owned KLBJ-AM “News Radio 590” responds with a half-share September pickup to 5.5 (6+) and elevates from fourth to third.
Over the course of the last eight sweeps (February 2020 through September 2020), Entercom’s KJCE “Talk Radio 1370” has logged either a .3 or a .2 (6+): .3 – .3 – .3 – .2 – .3 – .2 – .2 – .3 (#27 to #25).

Sports Talk

While unchanged at #24, Genuine Austin Radio’s KTXX “The Horn” has roughly half its 6+ AQH share eroded (-.7) through four successive decreases, including three straight drops of two-tenths (1.3 – 1.2 – 1.0 – .8 – .6, 6+).
Despite losing a total of two-tenths in three consecutive down or flat moves (.5 – .4 – .3 – .3, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KVET-AM “1300 AM The Zone” advances from #26 to #25.

Public Radio News/Talk

Not only does University of Texas at Austin-owned KUT tack on a whopping +1.9 to August’s +.9, it marches from second to first. Entering the August sweep, KUT was an overall -3.0 in four straight downturns (10.3 – 9.8 – 8.5 – 7.8 – 7.3, 6+). It was the market leader five times in a row before segueing to the runner-up slot in June. Recent (6+) fluctuations include: +2.0 (October 2019); -1.9 (“Holiday” 2019); +1.5 (January 2020); +.8 (March); -1.3 (May); -.7 (June); +.9 (August); and +1.9 (September).

RALEIGH

News/Talk

Up three-tenths (6.7 – 7.0, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 Stay Connected” is ensconced in third-place. Its July gain of six-tenths suspended four consecutive decreases that resulted in an overall -1.4 (7.6 – 6.9 – 6.8 – 6.6 – 6.2, 6+).
When Curtis Media Group’s WPTF improved by three-tenths to 1.8 (6+) this time last month, it halted three straight drops that accounted for a collective -1.2 (2.7 – 2.2 – 1.8 – 1.5, 6+). In September though, “News Radio 680” drops one-tenth to 1.7 (#16 to #18, 6+).

Sports Talk

Having logged a 1.1 (6+) in three of four sweeps (1.1 – 1.2 – 1.1 – 1.1, April – May – June – July, 6+), Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC “99.9 The Fan” (Carolina Hurricanes) is a combined +1.4 in August/September (1.1 – 1.3 – 2.5, #18 to #14, 6+).
Co-owned WDNC “620 The Ticket” is trending: .2 – .2 – .2 – .1 – .3 (#25 to #23, 6+).
Unlisted in June, cluster-mate WCMC-HD2 resurfaced with a .2 (July, 6+); it has a .1 (6+) in August and September (#25 to #26).

Public Radio News/Talk

Registering its fifth straight positive spike for a collective +2.0 (6.1 – 6.7 – 6.8 – 7.1 – 7.6 – 8.1, 6+), University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s WUNC “91.5 North Carolina Public Radio” is steady in the runner-up slot. This (8.1) is the first time WUNC reaches the eight-share level since August 2019’s5.
Stuck on .3 (6+) in June and July, co-owned WRQM is locked on .1 (6+) in August and September (#25 to #26).

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk

In addition to being an overall +1.7 via three bumps in a row (7.4 – 7.5 – 8.0 – 9.1, 6+), Emmis-owned WIBC rises from third to second. “Indy’s Mobile News 93.1” has is its best 6+-showing (9.1) since April (10.3). WIBC was -2.9 in May/June (10.3 – 8.9 – 7.4, 6+), directly after notching four straight increases for a +4.9 (5.4 – 7.6 – 8.0 – 8.8 – 10.3, 6+).

Sports Talk

Following three drops in a row in which it lost six-tenths (2.5 – 2.2 – 2.0 – 1.9, 6+), cluster-mate WFNI “The Fan – Indy’s Sports Center” (Pacers) picks up one-tenth to 2.0 (6+) and remains at #15.
Up one-tenth in back-to-back reports (.7 – .8 – .9, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WNDE carries on at #19. In June/July, “Indy’s Sports Station” had its 6+ AQH share sliced by 50% (1.4 – 1.1 – .7, 6+).
Unlisted the fourth sweep in a row is Emmis’ WIBC-HD3, which logged a .1 (6+) in May.

Public Radio News/Talk

Three gains in a row netted Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting’s WFYI a +1.6 (3.7 – 4.6 – 4.8 – 5.3, 6+); however, six consecutive setbacks account for an overall -1.9 (5.3 – 4.0 – 3.9 – 3.7 – 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.4, flat at #11, 6+).

MILWAUKEE

News/Talk

September’s +1.6 (8.6 – 10.2, 6+) by iHeartMedia’s WISN nearly matches its +1.8 this time last month as “News/Talk 1130” repeats at #1. Furthermore, this (10.2) marks the first time in its PPM-history that WISN has recorded double-digits (6+). WISN was on top in April and May, as well. Entering the August ratings period, “News/Talk 1130” was a collective -2.4 as a result of three declines in succession (9.3 – 8.6 – 7.2 – 6.8, 6+).
After being down or flat three times in a row for a net loss of eight-tenths (6.3 – 6.1 – 5.5 – 5.5, 6+), Good Karma Brands’ WTMJ (Brewers and Bucks) is a combined +1.7 in August/September (5.5 – 6.7 – 7.2, fifth to fourth, 6+). “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” was +1.2 in March/April (5.1 – 5.7 – 6.3, 6+).
Following back-to-back postings of .3 (6+), WTMJ’s internet stream is unlisted the third month in a row.
Alpha Media-owned WLIP had a repetitive March 2020 through July 2020 topline of: .5 – .6 – .5 – .6 – .5 (#18, 6+), but “AM 1050 Kenosha’s News & Talk” is a no-show the second consecutive sweep.

Sports Talk

Four Milwaukee sports talk outlets are found in September 2020’s top twenty, including iHeartMedia-owned WRNW “97.3 The Game – Milwaukee’s Sports Talk That Rocks,” which has a March 2020 through September 2020 topline of: 6 – .7 – .6 – .6 -.6 – .6 – .7 (#17 to #16, 6+).
Repeating August’s .6 (6+) and up two-tenths in August/September (.4 – .6 – .6, 6+), Good Karma Brands’ WKTI “94.5 ESPN” nonetheless slips from #17 to #18.
Albeit flat at .4 (6+), iHeartMedia’s WOKY “The Big 920” enters the top twenty (#21 to #20). It’s increase of two-tenths this time last month suspended ten straight sweeps without an increase that led to a net loss of one-half share (.7 – .6 – .5 – .4 – .4 – .4 – .4 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .2, 6+).
Off one-tenth (.5 – .4, 6+), Entercom’s WSSP “Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” echoes August’s #20 ranking.

Public Radio News/Talk

Flat at #10, University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM is down one-half share in August/September (3.9 – 3.5 – 3.4, 6+).
As a result of three bumps in a row, Wisconsin Public Radio’s WHAD nets one-half share (.9 – 1.0 – 1.3 – 1.4, #12 to #13, 6+), completely erasing that exact deficit in three straight down or flat reports (1.4 – 1.4 – 1.0 – .9, 6+).
WHAD’s internet stream regresses by two-tenths (.3 – .1, #23 to #25, 6+).

NASHVILLE

News/Talk

A combined +1.1 in July/August (4.6 – 4.8 – 5.7, 6+), Cumulus Media-owned WWTN forfeits one-tenth to 5.6 (6+) and falls from fifth to seventh. Following March/April’s +.7 (4.7 – 5.3 – 5.4, 6+), “Super Talk 99.7” was -.8 in May/June (5.4 – 5.3 – 4.6, 6+).
On the heels of August’s +.5 to 2.2 (6+), iHeartMedia’s WLAC sputters by one-tenth and one ranker (2.1, #16 to #17, 6+). “Talk Radio 1510” was a combined +.5 in March/April (2.2 – 2.3 – 2.7, 6+), but then -1.0 in three downturns in succession (2.7 – 2.4 – 2.0 – 1.7, 6+).

Sports Talk

Albeit off three-tenths to 2.9 (6+), Cumulus Media’s WGFX advances from #14 to #12; “104.5 The Zone” was up eight-tenths in July/August (2.4 – 2.9 – 3.2, 6+).
Down two-tenths (.6 – .4, 6+), Cromwell Group-owned WPRT slips from #21 to #22. An August gain of three-tenths by “102.5 The Game” (Predators) suspended six straight down or flat sweeps that resulted in a 70% loss (-.7) of its 6+ AQH share (1.0 – .6 – .4 – .4 – .3 – .3 – .3, 6+).
Despite being without an increase the fourth time in a row for a loss of one-tenth (2 – .2 – .2 – .1 – .1, 6+), co-owned WBUZ-HD3 climbs from #24 to #23.

News

Contemporary Christian-turned-Black Information Network affiliate/iHeartMedia-owned WNRQ-HD2 logs a .1 (6+) in back-to-back reports (#24 to #23).

Public Radio News/Talk

In addition to being up one-half share in August/September (3.8 – 4.2 – 4.3, 6+), Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM “NPR News and Classical Music” enters the top ten (#11 to #10).

PROVIDENCE

News/Talk

Dipping from sixth to seventh, Cumulus Media-owned WPRO-AM is a collective -2.1 in five consecutive downturns (6.1 – 5.6 – 4.7 – 4.4 – 4.2 – 4.0, 6+). Immediately prior, “News Talk 630” more than doubled (+3.6) its 6+ AQH share in four straight positive or neutral trends (2.5 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 6.1, 6+).
Up one-half share in August/September (1.2 – 1.3 – 1.7, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WHJJ climbs from #14 to #13. This is the best 6+-performance by “News Radio 920” since April 2019 (1.7, as well).
Trending .5 – .4 – .6 (July – August – September, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WPRV “AM 790 Talk & Business” cracks the top twenty (#22 to #20).

Sports Talk

Immediately after dialing up a half-share increase to 2.5 (6+), Entercom’s WVEI surrenders 60% of that windfall (2.2, -.3, eighth to ninth, 6+). “Sports Radio 103.7” basically lost half its 6+ AQH share (-2.1) in six straight down or flat survey periods (1 – 3.4 – 3.1 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.1 – 2.0, 6+).

News-Talk

The April 2020 through September 2020 topline for iHeartMedia Boston’s WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” is: 1.5 – 1.3 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.3 – 1.3 (#14 to #15, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Following four straight sweeps without an increase for a net loss of -1.3 (3.2 – 3.0 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 1.9, 6+), WGBH Educational Foundation Boston’s WGBH is up a combined seven-tenths in August/September (1.9 – 2.5 – 2.6, 6+) and repeats at #8.
Even though Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN follows August’s +.5 with a loss of one-tenth (2.1 – 2.0, 6+), it progresses into the top ten (#11 to #10). WNPN had been off one-half share in three straight sweeps without an increase (2.1 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.6 , 6+).
The Wheeler School-owned WELH “89.3 The Public’s Radio” has lost a total of one-tenth via four straight down of flat trends (.4 – .4 – .3 – .3 – .3, 6+) yet proceeds from #23 to #22.

NORFOLK

Sports Talk

Following July/August’s +.5 (1.0 – 1.3 – 1.5, 6+), Max Broadcast Group’s WVSP regresses by one-tenth to 1.4 (6+) but repeats at #11. May’s increase of two tenths curtailed seven straight down or flat reports that accounted for a net loss of nine-tenths (2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.3, 6+); however, “ESPN Radio 94.1” then lost one-half share in June.

News

Down one-tenth in August/September (.7 – .6 – .6, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned/Black Information Network affiliate WNOH remains at #14. Prior to flipping from alternative to news, WNOH was in a rotating down/up pattern that included July’s -.8: 1.8 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.4 – 1.5 – .7 (6+).

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk

On the heels of August’s +.9 to 10.4 (6+), Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM surrenders two-tenths to 10.2 (6+) but continues at #2. Just prior to the August report, “104.5 Jacksonville’s News, Weather, and Traffic” was an overall -3.9 via three drops in a row (13.4 – 10.4 – 9.9 – 9.5, 6+).

Sports Talk

The repetitive June 2020 through September 2020 topline for iHeartMedia-owned WFXJ is: .9 – .6 – .9 – .6 (6+), as “930 The Game – Jacksonville’s Sports Leader” departs the top twenty (#18 to #21). “The Game” was a combined +.6 in March/April (.8 – 1.2 – 1.4, 6+) but surrendered that entire increase in May.
Returning the two-tenths it picked up this time last month (.1 – .3 – .1, 6+), Cox Media Group’s WOKV-AM “ESPN Jacksonville 690 AM” slips from #22 to #24.

Public Radio News/Talk

Bouncing back from August’s loss of four-tenths with a September increase twice that magnitude (3.6 – 4.4, +.8, 6+), WJCT returns to the top ten (#12 to #8). Just after logging back-to-back losses of seven-tenths (3.9 – 3.2 – 2.5, 6+), WJCT was a combined +1.5 in June/July (2.5 – 3.7 – 4.0, 6+).

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk

Four consecutive down or flat reports by iHeartMedia-owned WJNO accounted for a net decrease of -1.1 (4.7 – 4.6 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.6, 6+), but “1290 The Palm Beaches’ News & Talk” ends the slide by adding three-tenths (3.9, steady at #7, 6+). WJNO netted an overall +1.9 via four consecutive reports without a decrease (2.8 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.5 – 4.7, 6+).
Despite gaining one-tenth in back-to-back reports (1.9 – 2.0 – 2.1, 6+), co-owned WZZR exits the top ten (#10 to #12). August’s increase by “Real Radio 94.3” suspended three consecutive down or flat sweeps that produced a net loss of three-tenths (2.2 – 2.0 – 1.9 – 1.9, 6+).
As a result of four straight sweeps without a loss, Hubbard Broadcasting’s WFTL “News Talk 850” has more than doubled (+.9) its 6+ AQH share (.7 – 1.1 – 1.2 – 1.3 – 1.6 – 1.6, steady at #14, 6+).
This is the fifth straight down or flat trend for iHeartMedia Miami’s WIOD “610 News Radio” which has lost three-tenths in that April 2020 through September 2020 stretch (.7 – .7 – .6 – .6 – .6 – .4, #21 to #22, 6+).

Sports Talk

For the fifth time in the last six sweeps (and fourth time in a row), Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” logs a .2 (.2 – .7 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2, flat at #24, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Off three-tenths in July/August (3.5 – 3.4 – 3.2, 6+), Dade County School Board’s WLRN erases that shortfall (3.5, +.3, 6+) and continues in eighth-place. Prior to May’s loss of one-tenth, WLRN was an overall +.9 in four straight up or flat reports (2.0 – 2.5 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.9, 6+).
Unlisted in June and July, WLRN-HD2 resurfaced in August with a .2 (6+) and repeats that AQH share and #24 ranking.

GREENSBORO

News/Talk

Adding two-tenths to August’s +.8 (4.2 – 5.0 – 5.2, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WPTI “94.5 Your News, Talk, & Sports Station” continues at #7. A collective +2.6 via four consecutive gains (3.0 – 3.9 – 4.7 – 5.1 – 5.6, 6+), WPTI then followed with three straight drops that accounted for a -1.4 (5.6 – 5.0 – 4.8 – 4.2, 6+).

Sports Talk

Nearly doubling (+.3) its 6+ AQH share in three straight reports without a loss (.4 – .6 – .6 – .7, 6+), Curtis Media Group-owned WSJS “Triad Sports” is steady at #15.

Public Radio News/Talk

In addition to being +1.3 through four successive spikes, Wake Forest University news/talk WFDD crosses the four-share level (2.8 – 3.1 – 3.6 – 3.9 – 4.1, unchanged at #10, 6+).
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s WUNC repeats August’s AQH share and market rank (1.7, #13, 6+); 1.7 is its best 6+-stat since March (1.7, as well).

MEMPHIS

News/Talk

An overall -1.4 in three consecutive drops (5.5 – 5.4 – 4.5 – 4.1, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WREC “600 AM – Memphis’ News, Traffic, & Weather” falls from eighth to ninth. In May, WREC plummeted by -1.5.

Sports Talk

Following July/August’s net increase of seven-tenths (1.8 – 2.0 – 2.5, 6+), Entercom’s WMFS “ESPN Sports Radio” relinquishes one-half share to 2.0 (#13 to #14, 6+). August’s 2.5 was its best 6+-stat since February (3.1).
After recording a .3 (6+) four times in a row and five times in the last six sweeps (.3 – .6 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .3, 6+), WMFS’ internet stream dials up a gain of four-tenths to .7 (#18 to #17, 6+).
Entercom-owned WMC-AM “680 AM ESPN Sports Radio,” which notched a .2 (6+) four times in the last five survey periods (.2 – .3 – .2 – .2 – .2, 6+), is up one-tenth to .3 (flat at #19, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

After logging a 1.5 (6+) three times in the last six sweeps and a 1.0 (6+) the other three reports (1.5 – 1.5 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.5, 6+), Mid-South Public Communications Foundation-owned WKNO “91.1 NPR For The Mid-South” erupts with a +1.1 (#15 to #12, 6+). Furthermore, WKNO crosses the two-share level (2.6, 6+) for the first time since February’s 2.0.

HARTFORD

News/Talk

A combined +1.2 in August/September (6.1- 6.9 – 7.3, 6+), Entercom-owned WTIC-AM elevates from a three-way tie at #3 to the runner-up slot. “News Talk 1080” was +2.1 via six successive up or flat moves (5.7 – 6.1 – 6.2 – 7.2 – 7.6 – 7.8 – 7.8, 6+) but was then -1.7 in July.
Regaining the three-tenths it lost in August (1.3 – 1.0 – 1.3, 6+), Red Wolf Broadcasting’s WDRC-AM “AM 1360 The Talk of Connecticut” progresses from #14 to #13.
Notching a gain of one-tenth in back-to-back reports (.2 – .3 – .4, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WPOP “News Radio 1410” continues at #16.

Sports Talk

Down one-half share in June/July (1.4 – 1.1 – .9, 6+) and then up one-tenth this time last month, co-owned WUCS “97.9 ESPN Hartford” forfeits one-half share to .7 (#13 to #15, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Four successive reports without an increase resulted in a -2.0 (4.6 – 4.3 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 2.6, 6+); however, Connecticut Public Broadcasting Network-owned WNPR “Connecticut’s Public Media Source for News & Ideas” is now an overall +1.0 via three straight upticks (2.6 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 3.6, tenth to ninth, 6+).
Returning August’s improvement of one-tenth (.2 – .3 – .2, 6+), University of Massachusetts-owned WFCR “New England Public Radio” falls from #16 to #17. Prior to August, WFCR lost half (-.2) its 6+ AQH share through six consecutive down or flat sweeps (.4 – .3 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2, 6+).

September 2020 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round Three

TALKERS | October 2, 2020

September 2020 PPM Data – Information for the September 2020 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 September 2020 survey period covered August 13 – September 9.

Managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” for spoken-word formats from these 12 PPM-markets.

Please Note: Given that the NFL season started September 10 – one day after the September 2020 sweep ended – there are no NFL flagship designations.

PORTLAND

News/Talk

After dropping six-tenths this time last month (6.5 – 5.9, 6+), Alpha Media-owned KXL notches a one-tenth gain (6.0, fourth to third, 6+). August’s 5.9 was the lowest 6+-stat for KXL since February (4.9). “FM News 101 – Stay Connected” was up one-half share in June/July (6.0 – 6.4 – 6.5, 6+).
Leaping from #17 to #13, iHeartMedia’s KEX “News Radio 1190 – Depend On Us” erases roughly 36% of August’s -1.1 (3.8 – 2.7, 6+) with a September improvement of four-tenths to 3.1 (6+). Its June drop of three-tenths followed nine straight up or flat moves that yielded a +1.6 (2.3 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.8 – 3.2 – 3.8 – 3.9, 6+).
In three straight sweeps without an increase, Alpha Media’s KUFO “Freedom 970” has lost four-tenths (1.4 – 1.4 – 1.2 – 1.0, #21 to #22, 6+).
Unchanged at #25, Salem Media Group’s KPAM nets two-tenths via four successive up or flat reports (.4 – .4 – .5 – .6 – .6, 6+). When “AM 860 The Answer” logged a .6 (6+) this time last month, it snapped at eleven a consecutive string of recording either a .4 (6+) or .5 (6+).

Sports Talk

Three down or flat moves in a row by Alpha Media’s KXTG accounted for a -1.1 (1.9 – 1.6 – .8 – .8, 6+), but “The Game” halts the slide with a +.3 to 1.1 (#23 to #21, 6+). KXTG had scored a collective four-tenths in three consecutive gains (1.5 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.9, 6+).
In four of the last five survey periods, Entercom-owned KFXX notched a 1.1 (1.1 – 1.1 – .9 – 1.1 – 1.1, 6+). In September though, “1080 The Fan” is off one-tenth to 1.0 (flat at #22, 6+).
Tripling (+.4) its 6+ AQH share in five straight reports without a loss (.2 – .2 – .2 – .3 – .5 – .6, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KPOJ “Sports Radio 620” (Trailblazers) advances from #28 to #25.

Public Radio News/Talk

Albeit #1 the sixth time in a row, Oregon Public Broadcasting’s KOPB is an overall -1.7 via five consecutive down or flat trends (10.1 – 9.3 – 9.1 – 8.8 – 8.4 – 8.4, 6+). KOPB was a combined +1.9 in March/April (8.2 – 9.9 – 10.1, 6+).
The May 2020 through September 2020 topline for its internet stream is: .9 – .7 – .6 – .8 – .6 (#23 to #25, 6+).

CHARLOTTE

News/Talk

A cumulative -1.2 through four down or flat sweeps in succession (7.1 – 6.3 – 6.0 – 5.9 – 5.9, 6+), Entercom-owned WBT applies the brakes with a gain of one-tenth to 6.0 (fifth to fourth, 6+). Immediately prior, “Charlotte’s News Talk” had more than doubled (+3.6) its 6+ AQH share through four increases in a row (3.5 – 4.9 – 5.3 – 5.7 – 7.1, 6+).

Sports Talk

Without an increase four straight months for a net loss of seven-tenths (1.8 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.3 – 1.1, 6+), co-owned WFNZ “The Fan – Charlotte’s Sports Leader” (Hornets) is up seven-tenths in August/September (1.1 – 1.2 – 1.8, unchanged at #17, 6+).
A no-show in July, following a .1 (6+) in May and June, Beasley Media Group’s WBCN reappeared in August with a .1 (#21, 6+). “Fox Sports Charlotte” repeats those 6+ AQH share and market rank stats.

News

The January 2020 through July 2020 topline for iHeartMedia’s WRFX-HD2 was: .2 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .1 – .2 – .1 (6+). As was the case this time last month, the Black Information Network affiliate is unlisted in September.

Public Radio News/Talk

Despite bouncing back from August’s half-share loss with a September spike of three-tenths (3.4 – 2.9 – 3.2, 6+), University Radio Foundation’s WFAE backslides from #13 to #14. Three straight sweeps without a loss yielded WFAE seven-tenths (2.7 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.4, 6+).
In July, WFAE HD-3 logged a .1 (6+), but it is unlisted in August and September.
The April 2020 through September 2020 topline for South Carolina Educational TV’s WNSC is: .3 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .3 (steady at #20, 6+).
This is the fourth time in the last five sweeps that co-owned WRJA “South Carolina Public Radio” is unlisted (.0 – .0 – .1 – .0 – .0, 6+).

SAN ANTONIO

News/Talk

Up one-tenth (6.0 – 6.1, steady at #2, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned/Spurs flagship WOAI “News Radio 1200 – San Antonio’s News, Traffic, & Weather” is now just two-tenths from the lead. Its recent fluctuations include: +1.0 (5.3 – 5.7 – 6.3, January/February, 6+); -.5 (6.3 – 5.8, March, 6+); +2.1 (5.8 – 7.9, April, 6+); -.8 (7.9 – 7.1, May, 6+); -.6 (7.1 – 6.5, June, 6+); -1.0 (6.5 – 5.5, July, 6+); and +.5 (5.5 – 6.0, August, 6+).
By dropping two-tenths to 1.9 (6+), Alpha Media’s KTSA suspends four successive up or flat trends that netted seven-tenths (1.4 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 2.1 – 2.1, 6+). Moreover, “Stay Connected” exits the top twenty (#20 to #21).

Sports Talk

For the fourth time in the last six survey periods, iHeartMedia-owned KTKR “Ticket 760 – San Antonio’s Sports Station” logs a .4 (.4 – .5 – .4 – .6 – .4 – .4, flat at #29, 6+).
Off three-tenths this time last month (.5 – .2, 6+), Alpha Media’s KZDC “ESPN San Antonio” gains one-tenth to .3 (#32 to #30, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

After being within 2.5 – 2.9 range (6+) in five successive reports (9 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.8 – 2.7, 6+), Texas Public Radio’s KSTX dials up a +.6 to 3.3 (#17 to #15, 6+).

SACRAMENTO

News Talk

Back-to-back pickups of one-tenth (7.9 – 8.0 – 8.1, 6+) are sufficient to push iHeartMedia-owned KFBK from second to first. August’s increase halted three successive declines that totaled a -3.7 (11.6 – 9.4 – 8.9 – 7.9, 6+). Immediately prior to slipping to third-place in July, “Sacramento’s News, Weather and Traffic Station” spent six straight sweeps at #1. April 2020’s 6 is its highest 6+-stat in the PPM-era, besting the previous high (10.3) set in March 2020.
Off nine-tenths in August/September (3.0 – 2.5 – 2.1, 6+), cluster-mate KSTE slips from #14 to #15. “Talk 650” hauled out a +1.2 in July. Prior to July’s 3.0 (6+), KSTE last reached the three-share level in September 2019 (3.0, as well).

Sports Talk

Bonneville-owned KHTK “Sports 1140” (Kings), which was off three-tenths in June/July (.8 – .6 – .5, 6+), repeats August’s .6 (#21 to #20, 6+).
Dropping from #21 to #23, Entercom’s KIFM-AM “ESPN Radio 1320” has lost roughly half (-.6) its 6+ AQH share via five straight down or flat trends (1.1 – .8 – .6 – .6 – .6 – .5, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

While flat at 4.4 (6+), following an August decrease of six-tenths, Capital Public Radio’s KXJZ progresses from seventh to sixth. Three earlier modest improvements accounted for a half-share increase (4.5 – 4.8 – 4.9 – 5.0, 6+).
Up three-tenths in August/September (.2 – .4 – .5 (6+), KQED, Inc.’s KQEI moves from #25 to #23.
Co-owned KQED pops on with a .1 (#28, 6+). Ironically, KQED is tied for first in both San Francisco (8.0, 6+) and San Jose (7.7, 6+).
Unlisted in May, June, and July, California State University-Sacramento’s KUOP repeats August’s .1 (flat at #28, 6+).

PITTSBURGH

News/Talk

Continuing an alternating down/up sequence that includes September’s increase of one-tenth (6.5 – 5.1 – 5.4 – 5.0 – 5.1, 6+), Entercom-owned KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020” remains in fifth-place. KDKA-AM was a combined -2.2 in May/June (7.3 – 6.5 – 5.1, 6+), immediately after being +4.2 via four straight improvements (3.1 – 4.0 – 4.3 – 5.6 – 7.3, 6+).

Sports Talk

Directly following a whopping +1.3 this time last month to 5.7 (6+), co-owned KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan” surrenders four-tenths to 5.3 (6+) but carries on at #4. The flagship of the Pirates was -1.9 in June/July (6.3 – 4.5 – 4.4, 6+). Its May increase of four-tenths interrupted three straight decreases that resulted in a -2.0 (7.9 – 7.5 – 6.7 – 5.9, 6+).
The “Holiday” 2020 through September 2020 topline for iHeartMedia-owned WBGG “ESPN Pittsburgh” is: .1 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .2 (#20 to #19, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Similar to KDKA-AM, Essential Public Media’s WESA “90.5 Pittsburgh’s NPR Station” is in a rotating down/up pattern which includes a September increase of four-tenths (5.4 – 5.1 – 5.4 – 4.7 – 5.1, sixth to fifth, 6+).

SALT LAKE CITY

News/Talk

Not only is iHeartMedia-owned KNRS a collective +2.0 through three successive upticks (5.3 – 5.8 – 6.1 – 7.3, 6+), “Talk Radio 105.9 – Listen And You’ll Know” vaults from fifth to second – just two-tenths from the lead. Immediately after logging four consecutive sweeps without a loss for a +2.2 (4.1 – 5.0 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 6.3, 6+), KNRS was -1.0 in May/June (6.3 – 5.4 – 5.3, 6+).
Down four straight months for an overall -3.7 (8.8 – 6.0 – 5.5 – 5.2 – 5.1, 6+), Bonneville’s KSL “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” answers with a September spike of +1.0 to 6.1 (seventh to fifth, 6+). A combined +3.9 in March/April (4.9 – 6.0 – 8.8, 6+), KSL had an April-only stay at #1.
Another negative streak concludes as Cumulus Media-owned KKAT is up two-tenths to .7 (6+), suspending four down or flat trends in a row in which its 6+ AQH share was compacted by exactly 50% (1.0 – .7 – .5 – .5 – .5, #23, 6+). Nonetheless, “860 AM – Utah’s Big Talker” backslides from #23 to #27.

Sports Talk

Ever since resurfacing in print this past June – after an approximately three-year hiatus – Larry H. Miller Communications Corporation’s KZNS-FM “The Zone Sports Network 97.5” has a topline of .4 – .3 – .6 – .9 (unchanged at #22, 6+).
In the matching four-sweep period (and under the same scenario), co-owned KZNS-AM “The Zone Sports Network 1280 AM” (Utah Jazz) is trending .6 – .6 – .8 – .8 (#18 to #25, 6+).
The internet stream of KZNS-FM repeats August’s .2 (#32, 6+).
With a .5 (6+), Broadway Media’s KALL “ESPN 700” finishes at #29.
Co-owned/Provo-licensed KOVO “ESPN 960 Sports” debuts with a .1 (#33, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

By nearly doubling (+2.1) its 6+ AQH share (2.3 – 4.4, 6+), University of Utah’s KUER rockets into the top ten (#15 to #9). KUER was down nine-tenths in April/May (2.9 – 2.4 – 2.0, 6+).
Despite being up three-tenths as a result of three consecutive up or flat moves (.5 – .5 – .7 – .8, 6+), Brigham Young University’s KUMT exits the top twenty (#19 to #25).
Co-owned KBYU-HD2 and its internet stream post a .1 (#33, 6+).
Meanwhile, Wasatch Public Media’s KCPW notches its fourth straight .1 (#33, 6+).

LAS VEGAS

News Talk

A combined +1.0 in August/September (2.4 – 3.0 – 3.4, 6+) lifts Entercom-owned KXNT “News Talk Radio 840” from #13 to #11.
This marks the third time in succession that Beasley Media Group’s KDWN “AM 720 Where Las Vegas Comes to Talk” notches an increase of one-tenth (2.2 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.5, #18 to #16, 6+ ).
The June 2020 through September 2020 trending for Kemp Broadcasting’s KMZQ “AM 670 The Right Talk for Vegas” is: .5 – .5 – .7 – .6 (#25 to #27, 6+).

Sports Talk

Following August’s increase of three-tenths to .7 (6+), Lotus Communications’ KWWN drops two-tenths (.5, #25 to #29, 6+). “ESPN Radio 1100” had its AQH share split in half (.8 – .4 – .4, May – June – July, 6+).
After three straight reports with a .1 (6+), co-owned KKGK “Fox Sports 98.9 FM & 1340 AM” logs a .2 (.1 – .1 – .1 – .2 (#32, 6+).
Elsewhere in the Lotus cluster, KRLV “Raider Nation 920” gained one-tenth this time last month (.1 – .2, #31, 6+) but is unlisted in September.
Meanwhile, Entercom’s KXST “CBS Sports Radio 1140 AM,” which lost one-tenth in August (.2 – .1, #33, 6+) also disappears from print.

Public Radio News/Talk

Despite being -1.4 in four consecutive down or flat trends (3.9 – 3.7 – 2.9 – 2.5 – 2.5, 6+), Nevada Public Radio’s KNPR progresses from #17 to #16. This negative streak immediately follows three straight improvements that accounted for a +1.3 (2.6 – 3.1 – 3 – 3.9, 6+).

ORLANDO

News Talk

Up four-tenths this time last month (4.1 – 4.5, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WTKS has half that increase scrubbed with a -.2 to 4.3 (unchanged at #8, 6+). “Real Radio 104.1 – We Say What We Want” had been a collective -2.6 in three successive downturns (6.7 – 6.0 – 4.5 – 4.1, 6+).
Completely expunging August’s -1.0 (2.4 – 1.4, 6+) with a robust +1.2 to 2.6 (6+), Cox Media Group’s WDBO-AM returns to the top twenty (#22 to #15). Back on June 29, WDBO-FM “News 96.5” became Spanish contemporary WOEX “Exitos 5.” Its news/talk programming shifted to WDBO-AM, where “Orlando’s News Talk” replaces sports talk “ESPN 580 Orlando.” Its AM signal is simulcast on FM translator W297BB (107.3 FM).
Off one-tenth (2.1 – 2.0, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WFLF slips from #15 to #17. This time last month, “News Radio Orlando” broke out a +.6.

Sports Talk

Following gains of three-tenths in back-to-back reports (.9 – 1.2 – 1.5, 6+), WFLF sibling WYGM “FM 96.9 The Game – Orlando’s Sports Leader” (Magic) regresses by two-tenths to 1.3 (flat at #20, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Three bumps in a row by Community Communications’ WMFE “90.7 Public Radio for Central Florida” produce a net gain of nine-tenths (2.3 – 2.4 – 3.1 – 3.2, steady at #13, 6+).

CINCINNATI

News/Talk

On the heels of flaunting a +2.3 (9.2 – 11.5, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WLW relinquishes over half that windfall (10.2, -1.3, 6+) and segues from first to second. Entering the August report, the flagship of the Reds had been down three times in a row for a collective -3.7 (12.9 – 10.3 – 9.4 – 9.2, 6+).
Co-owned WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station” nets nine-tenths in three upticks in a row (3.6 – 4.0 – 4.1 – 4.5, 6+) and progresses from ninth to sixth. WKRC was +.8 (May) and -.7 (June).

Sports Talk

Cluster-mate WCKY “Cincinnati’s ESPN 1530,” which more than doubled (+.5) its 6+ AQH share in July/August (.4 – .7 – .9, 6+), forfeits three-tenths to .6 (flat at #20, 6+).
After posting a .1 (6+) the past three sweeps, co-owned WSAI “Fox Sports 1360” adds one-tenth to .2 (6+) and remains at #24.

Public Radio News/Talk

In addition to more than doubling (+1.9) its 6+ AQH share through four successive upticks (1.8 – 2.1 – 2.4 – 3.1 – 3.7, 6+), Cincinnati Public Radio’s WVXU “Connecting You To A World of Ideas” enters the top ten (#11 to #10).

CLEVELAND

News/Talk

On the heels of an impressive +2.0 this time last month (6.6 – 8.6, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WTAM “1100 Cleveland’s News Radio” (Indians and Cavaliers) adds one-tenth to 8.7 (6+) and repeats in the runner-up slot. August’s increase curtailed three setbacks in succession that accounted for a -2.2 (8.8 – 7.7 – 7.1 – 6.6, 6+).

Sports Talk

This is the third time in the last four sweeps that Entercom’s WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” records a 2.2 (2.2 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.2, #13 to #14, 6+). In May, WKRK gained three-tenths to interrupt three consecutive decreases that accounted for an approximately 52% loss (-2.5) of its 6+ AQH share (4.9 – 3.6 – 3.2 – 2.4, 6+).

News

In its then-alternative format, iHeartMedia’s WMMS-HD2 had a January 2020 through July 2020 topline of: .9 – 1.1 – 1.1 – .9 – 1.1 – .9 – .5 (6+). The now Black Information Network affiliate is unlisted the second month in a row.

Public Radio News/Talk

Including a September bump of one-tenth pushing it into the top ten (#11 to #10), Ideastream-owned WCPN is in alternating up/down pattern: 3.3 – 3.8 – 3.5 – 3.6 (6+). WCPN logged three successive gains that netted a +2.1 (3.1 – 4.2 – 4.4 – 5.2, 6+), but then recorded three decreases in a row resulting in a -1.9 (5.2 – 4.8 – 3.9 – 3.3, 6+).

KANSAS CITY

News/Talk

The five most recent fluctuations for Entercom’s KMBZ-FM “98.1 News-Traffic-Weather” are: +1.4 (5.4 – 6.8, May, 6+); -1.3 (6.8 – 5.5, June); -1.2 (5.5 – 4.3, July); +.7 (4.3 – 5.0, August); and -.5 (5.0 – 4.5, September, sixth to ninth, 6+).
Its internet stream regains the one-tenth it dropped this time last month (.3 – .2 – 3, #27 to #26, 6+).
Co-owned KMBZ-AM “Talk 980” has a May 2020 through September 2020 topline of: 2.5 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.5 – 2.7 (#16 to #15, 6+).
Despite dropping one-tenth to 1.1 (6+), Cumulus Media’s KCMO-AM “Talk Radio 710 AM” advances from #22 to #21. Its one-tenth increase this time last month curtailed five straight down or flat reports that resulted in a net loss of three-tenths (1.4 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.1, 6+).

Sports Talk

Locked on 2.9 (6+) in July and August, Union Broadcasting’s WHB “Sports Radio 810” surrenders one-half share to 2.4 (#14 to #16, 6+).
WHB’s internet stream is trending .3 – .5 – .4 (#24, 6+).
A combined +1.5 in July/August (1.0 – 1.1 – 2.5, 6+), Entercom-owned KCSP is off four-tenths to 2.1 (6+) as the Royals’ key station dips from #16 to #18. Prior to July, “610 Sports Radio” lost two-thirds (-2.0) of its 6+ AQH share in five successive slips (3.0 – 2.6 – 1.8 – 1.4 – 1.3 – 1.0, 6+).
With a .1 (6+), KCSP’s internet stream debuts at #28.
Union Broadcasting’s KCTE “ESPN Kansas City,” which surfaced with a .1 (6+) this time last month, is unlisted in September.

Public Radio News/Talk

Extremely consistent the last three sweeps (4.5 – 4.3 – 4.4, July – August – September, 6+), University of Missouri-owned KCUR carries on at #10. KCUR was +1.4 in June/July (3.1 – 3.6 – 4.5, 6+).

COLUMBUS

News/Talk

In addition to be anchored in the runner-up slot, iHeartMedia’s WTVN logs its third straight bump for a collective +1.2 (7.6 – 8.1 – 8.7 – 8.8, 6+). “News Radio 610” was a collective +4.6 as a result of five successive increases (6.0 – 6.1 – 8.0 – 8.6 – 9.4 – 10.6, 6+), but then plummeted by -3.0 in May/June (10.6 – 9.0 – 7.6, 6+).

Sports Talk

Notwithstanding that it drops two-tenths (4.6 – 4.4, 6+), Tegna’s WBNS-FM “Sports Radio 97.1 The Fan” (Blue Jackets) inches up from sixth to fifth. Its recent shifts include: -.7 (3.6 – 2.9, June, 6+); +.7 (2.9 – 3.6, July, 6+); and +1.0 (3.6 – 4.6, August, 6+).
Co-owned WBNS-AM repeats August’s 6+ AQH share and market rank (.2, #16). WBNS-AM was unlisted in May; returned with a .2 (6+) in June and July; and dropped one-tenth in August.

Public Radio News/Talk

Three positive spikes in succession by Ohio State University’s WOSU account for a collective +1.3 (9 – 4.1 – 4.8 – 5.2, fifth to fourth, 6+).

September 2020 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round Two

TALKERS | October 1, 2020

September 2020 PPM Data. Information for the September 2020 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 September 2020 survey period covered August 13 – September 9.

Managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” for spoken-word formats from these 12 PPM-markets.

Please Note: Given that the NFL season started September 10 – one day after the September 2020 sweep ended – there are no NFL flagship designations.

WASHINGTON, DC

News/Talk

Despite picking up one-tenth (7.9 – 8.0, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WMAL shifts from second to third. WMAL set the pace four successive months (April through July), before faltering by one-half share in August. Just prior to the May sweep, WMAL doubled (+5.0) its 6+ AQH share through four straight positive spikes (5.0 – 6.9 – 7.3 – 7.8 – 10.0, 6+). April’s 10.0 marked the first time in WMAL’s PPM-history that it reached double-digits (6+).
For the 27^th sweep in succession, Radio One’s WOL “News Talk – Where Information Is Power” is unlisted.

Sports Talk

A combined +1.1 in July/August (1.3 – 1.6 – 2.4, 6+), Entercom-owned WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” (Washington Nationals) sputters by three-tenths to 2.1 (6+) but repeats at #16. Its 4.8 (November 2019) is the loftiest 6+-stat by any D.C. sports talk outlet in the PPM-era.
WJFK-FM’s internet stream is trending: .2 – .3 – .3 – .4 – .3 (May 2020 through September 2020, flat at #27, 6+).
Through four successive sweeps without an increase, Radio One’s WTEM “980 The Team” has lost four-tenths (1.1 – 1.0 – 1.0 – .8 – .7, #21 to #22, 6+). “The Team” previously gained four-tenths via three up or flat moves in a row (.7 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.1, 6+).
This is the fifth successive report in which Cumulus Media’s WSBN “630 AM The Sports Capitol” has logged a .1 (flat at #31, 6+).

News

Not only does Hubbard Broadcasting’s WTOP-FM & WTLP-FM stack a +1.0 onto August’s +.8 (7.7 – 8.5 – 9.5, 6+), “Washington’s Top News” repeats at #1. Prior to taking the lead in August, WTOP-FM & WTLP-FM spent three consecutive months occupying the runner-up slot. This (9.5) is the first time the combo has reached the nine-share level (6+) since March 2019 (9.7).
Locked on .5 (6+) in May and June and then on .7 (6+) in July and August, Entercom business news WDCH “Bloomberg1 & 105.7” drops to .4 (#22 to #26, 6+).
Following a .2 (6+) in June and July, the internet stream of WDCH is unlisted the second month in a row.
Similarly, Black Information Network affiliates WUST and WMZQ-HD2 do not appear in print this month.

Public Radio News/Talk

On the heels of August’s +.6 to 7.3 (6+), American University-owned WAMU falters by nine-tenths (6.4, third to fourth, 6+). Entering the August sweep, “The Mind Is Our Medium” was an overall -2.1 via four straight down or flat trends (8.7 – 8.4 – 7.4 – 6.8 – 6.6, 6+). In a first-place tie with Hubbard Broadcasting’s WTOP-FM in February, WAMU took sole possession of the lead in March.
Pacifica Foundation’s WPFW is trending: .9 – .6 – .5 – .6 – .5 (May – June – July – August – September, #25 to #24, 6+).

BOSTON

News/Talk

Four setbacks in a row by iHeartMedia-owned WRKO led to a -1.4 (5.3 – 4.8 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.9, 6+), but “AM 680 – The Voice of Boston” responds with a robust +1.0 to 4.9 (6+) and continues in eighth-place. Just prior, four successive sweeps without a loss garnered a +2.5 (2.8 – 3.5 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 5.3, 6+).
Co-owned WXKS-AM has lost seven-tenths in four straight declines (1.1 – .8 – .6 – .5 – .4, 6+). “Talk 1200” had nearly doubled (+.5) its 6+ AQH share in April/May (.6 – 1.1 – 1.1, 6+).

Sports Talk

The flagship of the Celtics and Bruins – Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM records its third straight spike for a collective +1.5 (3.9 – 4.1 – 4.9 – 5.4, 6+) as “98.5 The Sports Hub” climbs from seventh to sixth. This (5.4) is WBZ-FM’s best 6+-stat since March (5.8).
Unchanged at #12, Entercom’s WEEI-FM (Boston Red Sox) logs a 2.6 (6+) the third ratings period in succession. Before gaining one-tenth in July, WEEI-FM was an overall -1.7 in four consecutive downturns (4.2 – 3.5 – 3.2 – 3.0 – 2.7 – 2.5, 6+).
After notching a .2 (6+) the past three sweeps, WEEI-FM’s internet stream drops one-tenth to .1 (#30 to #32, 6+).
This is the fourth month in a row that co-owned WEEI-AM is unlisted.
Providence sibling WVEI logs a .1 (6+) the fourth consecutive report and is tied with WEEI-FM’s internet stream at #32.

News

For the sixth time in the last seven reports – including September’s loss of one-half share – iHeartMedia’s WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” notches a 6+-share within 6.1 – 6.7 range (6.4 – 6.3 – 5.9 – 6.6 – 6.7 – 6.6 – 6.1, third to fifth, 6+). WBZ-AM was off one-half share in April/May (6.4 – 6.3 – 5.9, 6+).
After posting a .1 (6+) the past four months, Beasley Media Group business news WRCA “Bloomberg Boston” adds one-tenth to .2 (#33 to #31, 6+).
As was the case this time last month, Black Information Network affiliate WJMN-HD2 does not appear in print (September 2020).

Public Radio News/Talk

Albeit flat at 3.4 (6+), Boston University’s WBUR climbs from tenth to ninth. In four straight down or flat trends, WBUR lost a collective half-share (3.7 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.2, 6+).
Four decreases in succession by WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH have accounted for a -2.3 (4.6 – 3.2 – 2.8 – 2.6 – 2.3, #12 to #16, 6+). This follows three straight improvements that netted a +1.7 (2.9 – 3.6 – 3.8 – 4.6, 6+), 6+).
Co-owned WCAI is unlisted the fourth time in a row.

MIAMI

News/Talk

Without a loss the third time in a row for a net gain of four-tenths (7 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 2.1, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WIOD “News Radio 610 Miami’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station” reenters the top twenty (#21 to #20).

Sports Talk

Entercom-owned WQAM “560 The Joe” repeats August’s 6+ AQH share and market rank (.7, #26, 6+). July 2020’s .6 was its lowest 6+-stat since July 2019 (.6, as well).
Co-owned WAXY “Sports Talk 790 The Ticket” (Heat), which was without an increase three straight months for a net loss of three-tenths (.5 – .4 -.2 – .2, 6+), doubles August’s .2 to .4 (#29 to #27, 6+).
Locked on .1 (6+) in July and August, iHeartMedia’s WINZ “940 AM Miami’s Sports Station” (Marlins) improves to .2 (#31 to #30, 6+).
Meanwhile, Entercom-owned WKIS-HD2 does not appear in print the fourth month in a row.

Public Radio News/Talk

Not only does Dade County School Board’s WLRN add four-tenths to August’s increase of two-tenths (3.1 – 3.3 – 3.7, 6+), it enters the top ten (#11 to #8). WLRN had lost an overall six-tenths in four consecutive slips (3.7 – 3.6 – 3.4 – 3.2 – 3.1, 6+).

SEATTLE

News/Talk

Following six successive sweeps at #1, Bonneville-owned KIRO-FM segues to the runner-up slot. Furthermore, “97.3 Seattle’s News/Seattle’s Talk” is down or flat the fourth report in succession for a net loss of eight-tenths (7.2 – 7.1 – 7.1 – 7.1 – 6.4, 6+). This directly follows a collective +2.4 via three straight bumps (4.8 – 6.0 – 6.9 – 7.2, 6+).
In an alternating down/up sequence that includes September’s gain of one-tenth (2.5 – 2.4 – 2.6 – 2.5 (June – July – August – September, 6+), cluster-mate KTTH advances to #16. “Conservative Talk Radio” had been anchored at #19 the past four Before dropping three-tenths in May, KTTH was +1.2 via five consecutive up or flat moves (1.6 – 1.8 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.6 – 2.8, 6+).
This is the sixth straight month that Sinclair Broadcast Group-owned KVI is unlisted. In March, “Talk Radio 570” posted a 1.1 (#22, 6+).

Sports Talk

Despite dropping three-tenths to 2.2 (6+), Bonneville’s KIRO-AM (Mariners) advances from #21 to #20. “ESPN 710” was a combined +1.0 in July/August (1.5 – 1.6 – 2.5, 6+).
Up two-tenths to 1.2 (6+), iHeartMedia-owned KJR-AM is steady at #24. “Seattle’s Sports Radio 950” had logged a 1.0 (6+) in three of the last four reports (1.0 – .8 – 1.0 – 1.0, 6+).
Stuck on .3 (6+) in May and June, co-owned KFNQ “1090 AM” is now locked on .2 (6+) the third consecutive month (flat at #30).

News

Sinclair Broadcast Group’s KOMO dropped one-half share in April and again in May (5.4 – 4.9 – 4.4, 6+); gained one-half share in June/July (4.4 – 4.6 – 4.9, 6+); forfeited one-half share in August (4.9 – 4.4, 6+); and rebounds with a September +.6 (5.0, seventh to fifth, 6+).
After logging a .1 (6+) in June, iHeartMedia-owned/Black Information Network affiliate KHHO is unlisted the third month in a row.
Meanwhile, this is the fourth consecutive report that Hubbard Broadcasting business news KKNW does not appear in print.

Public Radio News/Talk

After slipping one-tenth in August (5.4 – 5.3, 6+), Northwest Public Radio’s KUOW answers with a September improvement of one-half share (5.8, fifth to fourth, 6+). Off nine-tenths in April/May (5.5 – 5.4 – 4.6, 6+), KUOW gained eight-tenths in June/July (4.6 – 5.1 – 5.4, 6+).
Following four straight months of logging a .1 (6+), Washington State University-owned KSWS is unlisted in September.

DETROIT

News/Talk

Progressing from #14 to #12, Cumulus Media’s WJR picks up tenths in back-to-back reports (3.4 – 3.6 – 3.8, 6+). “News Talk 760” was +3.2 through four successive improvements (1.6 – 2.4 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 4.8, 6+) and then a collective -1.4 via three straight sweeps without an increase (4.8 – 4.1 – 3.4 – 3.4, 6+).

Sports Talk

Surrendering six-tenths from July/August’s +1.7 (3.6 – 4.1 – 5.3, 6+), Entercom-owned WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (Tigers, Pistons, Red Wings) falls from third to seventh (4.7, 6+). Its half-share July gain suspended three straight drops that accounted for a -1.2 (4.8 – 3.9 – 3.8 – 3.6, 6+).
Off three-tenths (.4 – .1, 6+), WXYT-FM’s internet stream slumps from #23 to #26.
Cluster-mate WXYT-AM is trending: .1 – .2 – .1 – .1 – .2 (May 2020 through September 2020, #25 to #23, 6+).

News

A combined -1.0 in August/September (5.5 – 5.3 – 4.5, 6+), co-owned WWJ “News Radio 950” drifts from third to tenth. WWJ previously was a collective +2.5 through four successive positive spikes (3.9 – 4.3 – 4.8 – 5.8 – 6.4, 6+). This (4.5) is its lowest 6+-stat since January (4.3).
In each of the last four survey periods, WDFN recorded a .2 (6+), but the iHeartMedia outlet/Black Information Network affiliate is unlisted in September.

Public Radio News/Talk

Down or flat the past four times for a net loss of -1.0 (3.0 – 2.5 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.0, 6+), Wayne State University-owned WDET obliterates the entire shortfall with a +1.0 to 3.0 (#20 to #18, 6+). In five successive increases, WDET more than doubled (+1.6) its 6+ AQH share (1.4 – 1.5 – 1.9 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 3.0, 6+).
Up or (mostly) flat the fourth straight time for a net increase of one-tenth (1.6 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.7, 6+), Michigan Public Media’s WUOM carries on at #21. WUOM was off seven-tenths in April/May (2.3 – 1.7 – 1.6, 6+).

PHOENIX

News/Talk

Regaining the one-tenth it lost this time last month (4.4 – 4.3 – 4.4, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” advances from seventh to sixth. Immediately prior to June’s -.7, KFYI nearly doubled (+2.3) its 6+ AQH share in seven up or flat reports in succession (2.5 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 3.4 – 4.7 – 4.8, 6+).

Three straight up or flat moves by Bonneville’s KTAR-FM yielded two-tenths (4.6 – 4.6 – 4.7 – 4.8, 6+), but the streak concludes with a one-half share loss to 4.3 (fifth to seventh, 6+). KTAR-FM was a combined +2.3 in March/April (3.8 – 4.6 – 6.1, 6+).

Sports Talk

In addition to gaining four-tenths in back-to-back sweeps (1.6 – 2.0 – 2.4, 6+), Bonneville-owned KMVP-FM “98.7 Arizona Sports” cracks the top twenty (#21 to #20, 6+). The flagship of the Arizona Diamondbacks was a combined -.6 in June/July (2.2 – 1.8 – 1.6, 6+).
This is the fifth consecutive time that iHeartMedia’s KGME “Fox Sports 910” (Coyotes) records a .2 (flat at #31, 6+), and fifth month in a row that Hubbard Broadcasting’s KDUS “Sports AM 1060” logs a .1 (#33 to #32, 6+).
KDUS is tied with Bonneville’s KTAR-AM, which is trending .1 – .2 – .1 (#31 to #32, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

A loss of nine-tenths to 3.0 (6+) has Maricopa County Community College-owned KJZZ fading from the top ten (#10 to #15). In eight of the previous nine survey periods, KJZZ notched a 6+ AQH share between 3.4 – 3.8 (3.5 – 3.7 – 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 4.2 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 3.9, 6+).

MINNEAPOLIS

News/Talk

Piling a robust nine-tenths onto August’s +.3 (4.3 – 4.6 – 5.5, 6+), Entercom-owned WCCO “News Radio 830” leaps from tenth to sixth. The key station of the Twins and Timberwolves was a combined -1.3 in June/July (5.6 – 5.5 – 4.3, 6+) and an overall +2.0 as a result of three straight up or flat trends (3.6 – 4.6 – 5.6 – 5.6, 6+).
It is a repeat of (6+) August stats for iHeartMedia’s KTLK (3.0, #14, 6+). Entering the August report, “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” recorded a fluctuation of one-tenth four sweeps in a row (2.6 – 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.6, 6+) and then notched a +.4 to 3.0 (6+).
Immediately after gaining a collective four-tenths in July/August (1.9 – 2.0 – 2.3, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting’s KTMY “My Talk 107.1” is off two-tenths to 2.1 (6+) and is unchanged at #16.

Sports Talk

Forfeiting half of its August increase of six-tenths (5.6 – 5.3, -.3, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KFXN remains in seventh-place. “Sports Radio 100.3 K-Fan” surrendered nine-tenths in June/July (5.9 – 5.6 – 5.0, 6+), following a May increase of four-tenths (5.5 – 5.9, 6+).
Via three straight up or flat trends, Hubbard Broadcasting’s KSTP-AM doubles (+.2) its 6+ AQH share (.2 – .3 – .3 – .4, 6+) and remains at #24. Entering the July sweep, “ESPN 1500” had been without an increase the previous five survey periods for a net loss of six-tenths or 75% of its 6+ AQH share (.8 – .7 – .5 – .5 – .5 – .2, 6+).

News

In July, iHeartMedia’s KQQL-HD2 notched a .2 (#25, 6+); was unlisted in August; but the Black Information Network affiliate resurfaces in September with a .1 (#27, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Three straight up or flat moves by Minnesota Public Radio’s KNOW yielded six-tenths (6.6 – 7.0 – 7.0 – 7.2, 6+), but it dips one-tenth to 7.1 (flat at #2, 6+). KNOW was -1.6 in May (8.2 – 6.6, 6+).

SAN DIEGO

News/Talk

Albeit down or flat the fifth month in a row for a net loss of -2.2 (6.6 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 4.5 – 4.4 – 4.4, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KOGO “News Radio 600” proceeds from seventh to fifth. Entering the May sweep, KOGO was a collective +2.8 via three straight bumps (3.8 – 4.5 – 5.5 – 6.6, 6+).
An improvement of two-tenths is sufficient for co-owned KGB-AM (formerly Tegna’s KFMB-AM) to jump back onto the top twenty (#22 to #18, 6+). “AM 760” continues its alternating down/up sequence (2.1 – 1.9 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 2.6 – 2.0 – 2.2, 6+).
Down four-tenths (2.4 – 2.0, 6+), Los Angeles sibling KFI falls from #17 to #20. Prior to gaining two-tenths this time last month, “AM 640” was -1.0 in three successive San Diego drops (3.2 – 2.8 – 2.6 – 2.2, 6+).

Sports Talk

Winning ways continue for Entercom’s KWFN “97.3 The Fan” (Padres), which is a collective +1.8 through five consecutive reports without a loss (1.1 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 2.6 – 2.9, 6+) and advances from #16 to #14.
This is the third time in a row that iHeartMedia-owned KLSD has a fluctuation of one-tenth (.7 – .8 – .9 – .8, flat at #24, 6+). “Fox Sports 1360 San Diego’s Sports Station” had lost eight-tenths in five straight sweeps without an increase (1.5 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.0 – .9 – .9 – .7, 6+).

News

Co-owned Black Information Network affiliate KSSX-HD2 is unlisted the second time in a row.

Public Radio News/Talk

Tied for the top spot in July and in sole possession of the lead in August, San Diego State University-owned KPBS sputters by three-tenths to 6.1 (6+) and shifts to third-place. Its recent moves include: -1.4 (8.5 – 7.1, May, 6+); -1.6 (7.1 – 5.5, June, 6+); and +.8 (5.5 – 6.3, July, 6+). Just prior, four increases in a row yielded a +3.7 (4.8 – 5.9 – 6.0 – 6.9 – 8.5, 6+).

TAMPA

News/Talk

There seems to be no stopping Cox Media Group-owned WHPT, which nets a +1.9 in four consecutive up or flat trends (2.7 – 2.7 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 4.6, 6+); “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” rockets into the top five (#14 to #5).
Meanwhile, its internet stream – which was a combined +1.6 in July/August (.8 – 1.5 – 2.4, #19, 6+) – is unlisted in September.
Without an increase the past four sweeps for an overall -1.7 (4.6 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.2 – 2.9, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WFLA “970 Tampa Bay’s News Radio” answers with a gain of six-tenths to 3.5 (#17 to #14, 6+).
Co-owned WHNZ “1250 Tampa Bay’s Impact Radio,” which was down three-tenths in July/August (.4 – .2 – .1, 6+), adds one-tenth to .2 (#33 to #30, 6+).

Sports Talk

Staying even at 1.8 (6+), after August’s +.6, iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “620 Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” progresses from #20 to #19. The Rays’ flagship had faltered by seven-tenths through four drops in a row (1.9 – 1.5 – 1.4 – 1.3 – 1.2, 6+).

News

In four straight reports without a loss, Beasley Media Group business news WHFS has gained two-tenths (.1 – .1 – .1 – .3 – .3, #26 to #27, 6+).
For the second report in a row, iHeartMedia-owned/Black Information Network affiliate WBTP-HD2 is unlisted.

Public Radio News/Talk

Down or flat the past five reports for a -1.2 (4.1 – 3.9 – 3.3 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 2.9, 6+), University of South Florida-owned WUSF erases two-thirds of that deficit with a +.8 to 3.7 (6+), leaping from #17 to #12. WUSF was an overall +2.4 in eight consecutive sweeps without a loss (1.7 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 2.2 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 4.1, 6+).
The May 2020 through September 2020 topline for its internet stream is: .4 – .3 – .4 – .3 – .3 (#26 to #27, 6+).

DENVER

News/Talk

Down one-tenth to 4.2 (6+), iHeartMedia’s KDFD stays put at #8. “Freedom 93.7 – Real News, Real Talk” gained one-half share in July/August (3.8 – 4.0 – 4.3, 6+).
Following an August increase of four-tenths (1.7 – 2.1, 6+), cluster-mate KOA “Colorado’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station” (Rockies) forfeits two-tenths (1.9, #18 to #19, 6+).
Co-owned KHOW “Talk Radio 630” notches its fourth straight positive or neutral move and is up one-half share in that stretch (1.1 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.3 – 1.6, #22 to #21, 6+).

Sports Talk

After dropping by -1.3 in June/July (3.1 – 2.3 – 1.8, 6+), Bonneville-owned KKFN “Sports Radio 104.3 The Fan” (Nuggets) rebounds with a combined +.6 in August/September (1.8 – 2.0 – 2.4, #20 to #17, 6+).
Adding three-tenths to August’s increase of two-tenths (.3 – .5 – .8, 6+), KSE Radio Ventures-owned KKSE-FM climbs from #30 to #29. “Attitude Sports Radio 92.5” lost half (-.3) its 6+ AQH share in June/July (.6 – .4 – .3, 6+).
Bonneville’s KEPN-AM “ESPN Denver 1600 AM,” which logged a .1 (6+) the past three sweeps, gains one-tenth to .2 (#32 to #31, 6+).
For the fourth time in a row, KSE Radio Ventures’ KKSE-AM records a .1 (#32 to #33, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Roaring back from July/August’s -.3 (5.8 – 5.6 – 5.5, 6+) with a whopping +1.2 to 6.7 (6+), Colorado Public Radio’s KCFR marches from second to first. KCFR was +2.6 in March/April (5.2 – 6.3 – 7.8, 6+) but then -2.1 in May (7.8 – 5.7, 6+).
Progressing from #28 to #26, Community Radio for Northern Colorado’s KUNC nets four-tenths in three straight reports without a loss (.6 – .6 – .8 – 1.0, 6+).

BALTIMORE

News/Talk

Independent WCBM “680 Stimulating Talk – Breaking News” logs its third straight bump for a collective +1.9 (3.3 – 3.9 – 4.4 – 5.2, seventh to sixth, 6+). WCBM was +1.8 via four straight increases (2.3 – 3.3 – 3.4 – 3.7 – 4.1, 6+), but then -.8 in May/June (4.1 – 4.0 – 3.3, 6+).
Off one-tenth (4.4 – 4.3, 6+), Hearst Television-owned WBAL “News Radio – Expect More” falls from seventh to ninth. Its August increase of three-tenths suspended three drops in a row that led to an overall -1.9 (6.0 – 4.9 – 4.4 – 4.1, 6+). That streak directly followed ten successive upticks that produced a +4.2 (1.8 – 2.2 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.9 – 3.2 – 3.4 – 3.9 – 4.4 – 5.1 – 6.0, 6+).
In three up or flat moves in succession, Cumulus Media Washington, DC’s WMAL nets three-tenths (.4 – .4 – .6 – .7, #27 to #23, 6+).

Sports Talk

After eroding by -1.0 in June, Entercom sports talk WJZ-FM “105.7 The Fan” (Orioles) is +1.4 in three straight sweeps without a loss (2.5 – 2.8 – 3.9 – 3.9, steady at #11, 6+). May’s increase of four-tenths halted three consecutive declines that led to an overall -2.0 (5.1 – 3.9 – 3.6 – 3.1, 6+).
Following three successive .1 showings (6+), co-owned WJZ-AM is unlisted the second month in a row.

News

As a result of four straight decreases (1.8 – 1.5 – 1.2 – 1.0 – .9, 6+), business news sibling WDCH “Bloomberg1 & 105.7” has lost exactly half (-.9) its 6+ AQH share and slips from #18 to #20. This follows five consecutive increases that accounted for a +1.3 (.5 – .6 – .9 – 1.1 – 1.7 – 1.8, 6+).
On the heels of doubling July’s .5 to 1.0 (August 2020, 6+), M-10 Broadcasting-owned/Black Information Network affiliate WQLL “BIN 1370” relinquishes three-tenths and departs the top twenty (.7, #18 to #23, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Including September’s gain of three-tenths, Your Public Radio’s WYPR “88.1 Your NPR News Station” continues an alternating down/up pattern (4.3 – 4.5 – 4.1 – 4.4, ninth to eighth, 6+).
Off four-tenths in August/September (1.0 – .9 – .6, 6+), American University-owned WAMU fades from #21 to #27.

ST. LOUIS

News/Talk

Not only is Entercom’s KMOX a whopping +2.0 in three spikes in succession (4.7 – 5.0 – 5.4 – 6.7, 6+), the Cardinals flagship advances from fifth to third. This (6.7) is the first time “The Voice of St. Louis” reaches a six-share (6+) since April’s 6.9. KMOX was -2.2 in May/June (6.9 – 5.9 – 4.7, 6+), directly after a +1.8 in March/April (5.1 – 5.4 – 6.9, 6+).
Co-owned KFTK, which was a combined +1.1 in July/August (4.1 – 4.5 – 5.2, 6+), regresses by three-tenths to 4.9 (seventh to eighth, 6+). Following four straight gains that netted a +3.8 (2.7 – 4.0 – 4.6 – 5.5 – 6.5, 6+), “FM News Talk 97.1” was -2.4 in May/June (6.5 – 4.9 – 4.1, 6+).

Sports Talk

The alternating up/down pattern by Hubbard Broadcasting’s WXOS “101 Sports” includes September’s loss of two-tenths (2.2 – 2.4 – 1.9 – 2.4 – 2.2, #16 to #17, 6+). By picking up two-tenths in June, WXOS interrupted four straight losses that accounted for a roughly 52% (-2.4) evaporation of its 6+ AQH share (4.6 – 4.3 – 3.4 – 2.5 – 2.2, 6+).

News

Black Information Network affiliate/iHeartMedia-owned KATZ-HD2 is unlisted the second month in a row.

Public Radio News/Talk

In addition to regaining the two-tenths it lost this time last month, University of Missouri-owned KWMU continues its alternating down/up sequence (2.3 – 2.0 – 2.3 – 2.1 – 2.3, #17 to #16, 6+).

September 2020 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round One

TALKERS | September 30, 2020

September 2020 PPM Data – Information for the September 2020 ratings period has been released for New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union.

Nielsen Audio’s September 2020 survey period covered August 13 – September 9.

Managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” for spoken-word formats from these 12 PPM-markets.

NEW YORK CITY

News/Talk

Jumping from #20 to #17, iHeartMedia’s WOR is up one-half share in August/September (1.8 – 1.9 – 2.3, 6+). Following April’s +1.1 to 3.0 (6+), “710 The Voice of New York” was an overall -1.2 in three straight drops (3.0 – 2.4 – 1.9 – 1.8, 6+).
This is the fourth sweep in a row that Red Apple Media-owned WABC logs a 1.4 (1.6 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.4, #22 to #21, 6+).
In each sweep from March 2020 through September 2020, Townsquare Media’s WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” has posted a fluctuation of exactly one-tenth (.9 – .8 – .9 – 1.0 – .9 – .8 – .9, #25 to #24, 6+).

Sports Talk

On the heels of August’s improvement of six-tenths to 3 – its best 6+-stat since February (2.3, as well) – Entercom-owned/Yankees flagship WFAN drops one-tenth to 2.2 (#17 to #20). WFAN gained four-tenths in May/June (1.4 – 1.7 – 1.8, 6+), before forfeiting one-tenth in July. Its internet stream, which logged a .3 three reports in a row, repeats August’s .4 (#32 to #31, 6+).
Down a collective seven-tenths in three straight sweeps without an increase (1.6 – 1.0 – .9 – .9, 6+), WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” halts the skid with a +.1 to 1.0 (#24 to #23, 6+). Entering the May sweep, WEPN-FM dropped nine-tenths in three consecutive losses (2.1 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.2, (1.5 – 1.2, 6+).

News

When Entercom-owned WINS this time last month notched a half-share gain to 4.3 (6+), it ended three consecutive declines that resulted in a -1.9 (5.7 – 4.9 – 4.2 – 3.8, 6+). In September though, WINS forfeits three-tenths (4.0, seventh to eighth, 6+).
Including September’s loss of four-tenths, co-owned/New York Mets key station WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” has an alternating up/down sequence of: 2.9 – 3.4 – 3.1 – 3.4 – 2.8 – 3.1 – 2.7, #11 to #13, 6+).
Bloomberg Communications business news WBBR “Bloomberg 1130 AM” repeats August’s .3 (6+), but slips from #36 to #37.

Public Radio News/Talk

A September decline of four-tenths after an August uptick of one-half share (2.8 – 3.3 – 2.9) sends WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM out of the top ten (#8 to #12). Three consecutive drops led to a -2.3 (5.1 – 3.3 – 2.9 – 2.8, 6+).
In four straight down or flat trends, co-owned WNYC-AM dropped roughly half (-.6) its 6+ AQH share (1.1 – .7 – .7 .6 – .5, 6+), but it pulls the plug with a +.2 to .7 (#29 to #26, 6+).

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk

Bouncing back from August’s decrease of eight-tenths with September’s +.1 (3.9 – 4.0, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KFI stays put in fifth-place. “AM 640” more than doubled (+2.9) its 6+ AQH share from “Holiday” 2019 through April 2020; crossed the five-share threshold; and had an April-only stay at #1 (2.6 – 3.3 – 3.8 – 4.2 – 5.5, 6+). April 2020 marked the first time KFI reached #1 since March 2011 (4.9, 6+).
Off six-tenths in four straight down or flat reports (1.8 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.4 – 1.2, 6+), Salem Media Group’s KRLA “AM 870 The Answer” applies the brakes with a +.3 to 1.5 (#28 to #26, 6+).
Following three down or flat sweeps in succession that accounted for a loss of four-tenths (1.4 – 1.1 – 1.0 – 1.0, 6+), Cumulus Media’s KABC “790 News-Talk-Evolved” is up three-tenths in August/September (1.0 – 1.2 – 1.3, flat at #28, 6+). As a result of four consecutive improvements, KABC had almost tripled (+.9) its 6+ AQH share (.5 – .7 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.4, 6+).
The March 2020 through September 2020 topline for iHeartMedia-owned KEIB “AM 1150 The Patriot” is: .8 – 1.1 – 1.0 – .8 – .9 – .9 – .7 (#36 to #37, 6+).

Sports Talk

Despite more than doubling (+.7) its 6+ AQH share in five straight up or flat moves (.5 – .5 – .6 – .6 – 1.2 – 1.2, 6+), the flagship of the Los Angeles Dodgers, iHeartMedia’s KLAC “AM 570 LA Sports,” backslides from #28 to #31.
Without an increase seven times in a row for a net decrease of seven-tenths (1.1 – .9 – .8 – .4 – .4 – .4 – .4 – .4, 6+), Disney-owned KSPN “710 ESPN” (Angels) ends the slump by picking up one-tenth to .5 (#41 to #40, 6+).

News

In addition to being down a collective nine-tenths in three straight drops (3.9 – 3.2 – 3.1 – 3.0, 6+), Entercom’s KNX “1070 News Radio” exits the top ten (#10 to #11). KNX gained eight-tenths in March; was down nine-tenths in April/May (3.8 – 3.4 – 2.9, 6+); and +1.0 in June.

Public Radio News/Talk

A September uptick of one-half share to 2.1 (6+) enables KPCC “The Voice of Southern California” to leap from #25 to #19. The Pasadena City College-owned facility had been trending: 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 1.6 (6+).

CHICAGO

News/Talk

Immediately after notching a +.3 to 3.6 (6+), thus curtailing three slips in a row that resulted in a -2.3 (5.6 – 5.2 – 4.5 – 3.3, 6+), Nexstar Media Group-owned WGN surrenders one-half share to 3.1 (6+); the White Sox flagship departs the top ten (#9 to #11). “Radio 720” previously posted four straight increases that netted a +2.6 (3.0 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.5 – 5.6, 6+).
Down one-half share in four straight reports without an increase (2.4 – 2.1 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 1.9, 6+), Cumulus Media-owned WLS-AM “890 AM” ends the skid with a gain of two-tenths to 2.1 (steady at #22, 6+).
In terms of strongest month-to-month improvement, Newsweb Corp’s Willow Springs, Illinois-licensed WCPT makes the biggest noise here with a +1.0 to 1.3 (6+) and rockets from #34 to #25. “Progressive Talk 820 AM” debuted in print this time last month with a .3 (6+).
Just as they were in August, Alpha Media cluster-mates (suburban Joliet) WJOL “1340 We’ve Got ‘Em Talking” and Kenosha, Wisconsin-licensed WLIP “AM 1050” are tied at #40, as each repeats last month’s .1 (6+).

Sports Talk

In back-to-back sweeps, Entercom’s WSCR “670 The Score” more than doubles (+1.7) its 6+ AQH share (1.5 – 2.5 – 3.2, 6+), catapulting from #17 to #9. The Cubs’ flagship was an overall -2.0 as a result of seven successive reports without an increase (3.5 – 3.3 – 2.7 – 2.5 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 1.5 – 1.5, 6+).
Having posted a 1.2 four times in a row (February through May, 6+), Disney/ESPN-owned WMVP “ESPN Chicago 1000” has followed with a .8 – .1.0 – 1.0 – .9 (#26 to #27, 6+).

News

After setting the pace the past seven survey periods, Entercom-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS-FM falters by nine-tenths (7.3 – 6.4, 6+) and segues to the runner-up slot. Immediately prior to being -1.5 in May/June (8.4 – 7.0 – 6.9, 6+), “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” was a collective +3.5 through four straight gains (4.9 – 5.4 – 5.8 – 7.7 – 8.4, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

It’s been a strange scenario the past two months for Chicago Public Media outlet WBEZ. In August, it improved by two-tenths to 3.4 (6+) yet departed the top ten (#10 to #11). It now returns the two-tenths (3.4 – 3.2, 6+), but reenters the top ten (#11 to #9).

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk

While unchanged at #21, Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “560 – The Bay Area’s Exclusive Hot Talk” is without an increase the fourth straight time for a net loss of two-tenths (1.9 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.7, 6+).
Following five consecutive sweeps without an increase accounting for an approximately 44% loss (-.8) of its 6+ AQH share (1.8 – 1.8 – 1.5 – 1.4 – 1.2 – 1.0, 6+) co-owned KGO is up four-tenths in August/September (1.0 – 1.2 – 1.4, #25 to #24, 6+).

Sports Talk

After faltering by four-tenths in June (2.3 – 1.9, 6+), Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) answers by more than doubling (+2.1) its 6+ AQH via three straight spikes (1.9 – 2.5 – 3.6 – 4.0, steady at #6, 6+).
For the fourth time in the last five survey periods, Entercom’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” logs a .9 (.9 – .8 – .9 – .9 – .9, #28 to #27, 6+). In four straight downturns, KGMZ lost nine-tenths (1.7 – 1.4 – 1.0 – .9 – .8, 6+). Its internet stream records a .1 the third time in succession (#35 to #34, 6+).
Unlisted in June and July, Cumulus Media-owned KTCT resurfaced with a .1 (6+) in August and repeats it in September (#35 to #34, 6+).

News

A combined -1.4 in July/August (8.9 – 8.3 – 7.5, 6+), KCBS-AM & KFRC rebounds with a half-share increase to 8.0 (6+) and shifts from second to a first-place tie. The Entercom combo was #1 in June and July. Prior to faltering by -1.4 in May, KCBS-AM & KFRC had been on top three successive sweeps and was an overall +2.2 in four consecutive up or flat moves (7.7 – 8.4 – 8.7 – 9.9 – 9.9, 6+).
Up three-tenths in August/September (.1 – .3 – .4, 6+), iHeartMedia business news/Oakland A’s flagship KNEW remains at #30.
Having logged a .2 (6+) in February, March, and April, iHeartMedia-owned KKSF-AM posts a .1 (6+) the fifth time in a row (#35 to #34, 6+). On June 30^th, KKSF-AM became an inaugural affiliate of the Black Information Network.

Public Radio News/Talk

Up two-tenths (7.8 – 8.0, 6+), California Public Broadcasting’s KQED ties KCBS-AM at #1. Immediately in advance of August’s +.4 to 7.8 (6+), KQED was -2.5 via three drops in succession (9.9 – 8.7 – 7.8 – 7.4, 6+). Recent (6+) fluctuations for KQED include: +1.6 (November/December); -1.2 (“Holiday” 2019); +1.2 (January 2020); -.9 (February); +1.5 (March); +1.8 (April); -1.2 (May); and -.9 (June).
Dropping from #29 to #30, San Francisco Unified School District’s KALW “91.7 Local Public Radio” is trending: .5 – .5 – .6 – .4 (June – July – August – September, 6+).

DALLAS

News/Talk

Four consecutive declines by Cumulus Media’s WBAP accounted for a collective -1.4 (4.1 – 3.2 – 3.0 – 2.9 – 2.7, 6+); however, “News Talk 820” counters with a September gain of four-tenths to 3.1 (#17 to #13, 6+).
From March 2020 through September 2020, cluster-mate KLIF-AM “570 News & Information” is trending: .6 – .4 – .4 – .6 – .5 – .5 – .6 (#35 to #36, 6+).
Meanwhile, Salem Media Group-owned KSKY “660 AM The Answer” logs a .4 the fifth time in the last six reports (.4 – .4 – .4 – .5 – .4 – .4, #36 to #37, 6+).
The May 2020 through September 2020 trending for iHeartMedia’s KFXR is: .1 – .0 – .1 – .0 – .0 (6+); “Talk Radio 1190 AM” finished at #38 in July.

Sports Talk

This is the third sweep in succession that Entercom-owned/Texas Rangers flagship KRLD-FM has a fluctuation of two-tenths (1.5 – 1.7 – 1.9 – 1.7, 6+), as “105.3 The Fan” departs the top twenty (#20 to #22). Its internet stream has lost a total of two-tenths in four straight down or flat trends (.3 – .3 – .3 – .2 – .1, #38 to #40, 6+).
Stuck on 1.3 (6+) in June and July, Cumulus Media’s KTCK “The Ticket – All Sports All The Time” is locked on 1.4 (6+) in August and September (#23 to #25, 6+). Down one-tenth (.8 – .7, 6+), its internet stream drops from #34 to #35.
The March 2020 through September 2020 topline for Disney/ESPN’s KESN “103.3 ESPN Dallas” is: .7 – .6 – .8 – .7 – .7 – .9 – .8 (#30 to #34, 6+).

News

Notwithstanding that it repeats August’s 1.3 (6+), Entercom-owned KRLD-AM slips from #26 to #28. “News Radio 1080” was up three-tenths in June/July (1.2 – 1.3 – 1.5, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

A combined +.4 in July/August (2.5 – 2.8 – 2.9, 6+), North Texas Public Broadcasting’s KERA returns half that increase (2.7, -.2, #14 to #16, 6+).

HOUSTON

News/Talk

Purging 30% of July/August’s -1.0 (6.3 – 5.6 – 5.3, 6+) with a September +.3 to 5.6 (6+), iHeartMedia’s KTRH continues in fifth-place. “News Radio 740” was +1.7 in April.
Co-owned KPRC “AM 950 – Houston’s More Stimulating Talk Radio,” which had a one-tenth fluctuation in each of the past four sweeps (.2 – .3 – .4 – .3 – .4, 6+), repeats August’s .4 (flat at #27, 6+).

Sports Talk

Stymied at .9 (6+) in July and August, Entercom’s KILT-AM “Sports Radio 610” picks up one-tenth to 1.0 (flat at #23, 6+).
Advancing from #26 to #25 is iHeartMedia-owned KBME “Sports Talk 790.” The Houston Astros flagship is trending: .6 – .6 – .5 – .5 – .7 – .7 (April 2020 through September 2020, 6+).
Continuing the theme of repetitive AQH shares, Gow Communications’ KFNC “ESPN5” has posted either a .3 (6+) or .4 (6+) going back to “Holiday” 2019: .4 – .4 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .4 – .4, flat at #27, 6+)

Public Radio News/Talk

In five consecutive decreases, KUHF was an overall -1.1 (3.7 – 3.4 – 3.1 – 2.9 – 2.8 – 2.6, 6+), but the University of Houston outlet is up a combined three-tenths in August/September (2.6 – 2.7 – 2.9, #17 to #16, 6+).
The May 2020 through September 2020 topline for Pacifica Foundation’s KPFT is: .0 – .0 – .1 – .0 – .1 (#29, 6+).

ATLANTA

News/Talk

Not only is Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB-FM the market leader the 15^th time in a row, “Atlanta’s News & Talk” regains the half-share it forfeited this time last month (10.6 – 10.1 – 10.6, 6+). April’s 9 marked the first time in the PPM-era that any Atlanta station reached the 13-share level (6+).
Despite repeating August’s .8 (6+), Salem Media Group’s WGKA “AM 920 The Answer” slips from #24 to #26.
Entercom’s WAOK “1380 The Voice of the Community” is in a repetitive .4 – .3 – .4 – .3 pattern (June 2020 through September 2020, #30 to #31, 6+).

Sports Talk

In addition to returning the four-tenths it picked up this time last month (3.1 – 3.5 – 3.1, 6+), Entercom’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” exits the top ten (#10 to #12). In six straight reports without an increase, WZGC was an overall -1.5 (4.6 – 3.9 – 3.4 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.1, 6+).
On the heels of a +1.0 to 2.0 (6+), Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “680 The Fan” falters by three-tenths to 1.7 (#18 to #20, 6+). The Atlanta Braves flagship had been down two-tenths in back-to-back reports (1.4 – 1.2 – 1.0, 6+).

News

Reaching a .4 (6+) in June, iHeartMedia-owned WBIN (formerly WGST “Talk Radio 640”) has followed with a .2 (July, 6+); .1 (August, 6+); and is a no-show in September. WBIN became a Black Information Network affiliate in late-June.

Public Radio News/Talk

This is the third time in succession that City of Atlanta Board of Education’s WABE notches a fluctuation of two-tenths (2.4 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 2.6, #15 to #16, 6+).
Unlisted in June and July, similarly-formatted WABE-HD3 surfaced with a .1 in August (#34, 6+) but is a no-show in September.
Unchanged at #29, Georgia State University’s WRAS notches a .5 (6+) the fifth time in the last seven reports (.7 – .5 – .5 – .5 – .6 – .5 – .5, 6+).

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk

Even though it recaptures the three-tenths it squandered this time last month (1.7 – 1.4 – 1.7, 6+), Entercom-owned WPHT “Talk Radio 1210” continues at #21.
Up or flat the fifth time in a row for a net gain of six-tenths (.8 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.4 – 1.4, 6+), Townsquare Media’s WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” nonetheless backslides from #21 to #23.

Sports Talk

Having bounced back from June/July’s combined -1.6 (5.9 – 4.7 – 4.3, 6+) with September’s +.6 to 4.9 (6+), Entercom-owned/Philadelphia Phillies flagship WIP “Sports Radio 94.1” drops two-tenths (4.7, sixth to seventh, 6+).
The alternating down/up (March 2020 through September 2020) pattern for Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” includes September’s half-share gain: 2.1 – 1.4 – 1.6 – 1.4 – 1.6 – 1.3 – 1.8 (#23 to #20, 6+).

News

Similar to WPEN-FM, Entercom-owned KYW “News Radio 1060” has been evenly rotating up and down trends since March and includes September’s loss of two-tenths (6.6 – 7.3 – 5.8 – 6.1 – 5.7 – 6.1 – 5.9, flat at #4, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Tacking on three-tenths to August’s +.4 (4.4 – 4.8 – 5.1, 6+), WHYY progresses from seventh to fifth. In four consecutive reports without an increase, WHYY was -1.0 (5.4 – 4.5 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.4, 6+).

NASSAU-SUFFOLK (LONG ISLAND)

News/Talk

No sooner does iHeartMedia’s WOR pick up three-tenths, it surrenders four-tenths (3.9 – 4.2 – 3.8, fifth to seventh, 6+). Three just prior slumps in succession accounted for a -2.8 (6.7 – 5.7 – 4.4 – 3.9, 6+). April’s +2.9 rocketed “710 The Voice of New York” from eighth to first.
Without a loss the past six reports for a net increase of three-tenths (1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.4, 6+), Red Apple Media-owned WABC is unlisted in September.

Sports Talk

Wiping away half of August’s +.8 with a September decline of four-tenths (3.1 – 3.9 – 3.5, 6+), Entercom-owned/Yankees key station WFAN slips from seventh to ninth. Its internet stream has lost three-tenths in August/September (1.1 – .9 – .8, #26 to #25, 6+).
This is the ninth month in a row that WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” is unlisted in Long Island. WEPN was -.5 in December/“Holiday” 2019 (2.7 – 2.5 – 2.2, #15, 6+).

News

Owing to a loss of eight-tenths (4.3 – 3.5, 6+), Entercom’s WINS slumps from fourth to ninth. Prior to August’s increase of four-tenths, WINS was -1.4 via three straight drops, (5.3 – 4.2 – 4.1 – 3.9, 6+).
Up four-tenths in July/August (2.5 – 2.6 – 2.9, 6+), co-owned/New York Mets flagship WCBS-AM regresses by one-tenth to 2.8 (#13 to #15, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Following an August gain of six-tenths to 1.7 (6+), WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM stumbles by two-tenths to 1.5 (#22 to #23, 6+). WNYC-FM lost one-half share in four down or flat moves in a row (1.6 – 1.4 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1, 6+).
Co-owned WNYC-AM is trending: .1 – .1 – .2 – .2 – .1 (May 2020 through September 2020, #33 to #36, 6+) .
Having logged a .1 (6+) three sweeps in succession, Sacred Heart University’s WSUF gained one-tenth this time last month only to forfeit it in September (.2 – .1, #33 to #36, 6+).

RIVERSIDE-SAN BERNARDINO-ONTARIO

News/Talk

Unlisted the 12^th time in succession, iHeartMedia’s KKDD “1290 News Talk IE” posted a .1 (6+) last August, September, and October.

Sports Talk

Co-owned KPWK “Fox Sports Radio 1350 AM,” which wasn’t in print in April or May, notches a .1 (6+) the fourth time in a row (#17 to #18, 6+).
Los Angeles Angels-owned (LAA 1, LLC) KLAA “Angels Radio AM 830” is unlisted the 34^th sweep in succession.

News

KFOO is one of 15 iHeartMedia-owned stations to become Black Information Network’s first affiliates. KFOO recorded a .3 (6+) in June, but hasn’t appeared in the July, August, or September reports.

Public Radio News/Talk

Off one-tenth this time last month to .5 (6+), Pasadena City College-owned KPCC “The Voice of Southern California” nearly doubles it with an increase of four-tenths (.9, #14 to #13, 6+).
One-tenth behind KPCC is San Bernardino Community College’s KVCR, which picks up three-tenths to .8 (flat at #14, 6+).

SAN JOSE

News/Talk

Up a combined half-share in August/September (1.6 – 1.8 – 2.1, 6+), Cumulus Media’s KGO elevates from #17 to #14. It had been an overall -1.3 in four successive slips (2.9 – 2.3 – 1.9 – 1.6 – 1.6, 6+).
After dropping one-tenth this time last month, co-owned KSFO “560 – The Bay Area’s Exclusive Hot Talk” answers with an increase of three-tenths (1.1 – 1.4, #25 to #24, 6+).

Sports Talk

Although remaining in ninth-place, cluster-mate KNBR “The Sports Leader” has more than doubled (+2.1) its 6+ AQH share in three straight positive spikes (1.9 – 2.4 – 3.7 – 4.1, 6+); the San Francisco Giants flagship spiraled by -1.1 in June.
Not only is Entercom’s KGMZ off four-tenths in August/September (1.9 – 1.6 – 1.5, 6+), “95.7 The Game” exits the top twenty (five-way tie at #19 to #22).

News

A collective -2.8 via five drops in a row (6.9 – 6.4 – 5.8 – 5.6 – 4.7 – 4.1, 6+), Entercom-owned KCBS-AM roars back with a +1.2 to 5.3 (seventh to fifth, 6+). This directly follows three straight gains that yielded a +2.5 (4.4 – 5.0 – 5.7 – 6.9, 6+). KCBS-AM has been +.7 (November 2019); -.8 (December); -.7 (“Holiday” 2019); +1.2 (March); -.9 (July); -.6 (August); and +1.2 (September).
Doubling (+.3) August’s .3 to .6 (6+), iHeartMedia business news/Oakland A’s flagship KNEW-AM climbs from #29 to #28.
KKSF-AM was one of 15 iHeartMedia stations to become inaugural affiliates of the Black Information Network. Finishing at #30 in July, KKSF-AM’s May 2020 through September 2020 topline is: .2 – .0 – .1 – .0 – .0 (6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Three setbacks in succession by KQED led to a -2.7 (9.3 – 8.4 – 7.7 – 6.6, 6+), but the Northern California Public Broadcasting facility posts an August/September +1.1 (6.6 – 6.9 – 7.7, 6+) and advances from second to a first-place tie. KQED was a combined +2.8 in March/April (6.5 – 7.4 – 9.3, 6+) and had a November-only stay at #1.
A one-tenth increase by San Francisco Unified School District’s KLAW (to 1.1, 6+) this time last month halted three consecutive slips that led to a collective loss of seven-tenths (1.7 – 1.4 – 1.1 – 1.0, 6+); however; KALW sputters by nine-tenths to .2 (#25 to #30, 6+).

MIDDLESEX-SOMERSET-UNION

News/Talk

A combined -1.1 in June/July (6.8 – 6.5 – 5.7, 6+), Townsquare Media’s WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” gains nine-tenths in August/September (5.7 – 5.8 – 6.6, 6+) and progresses from third to second. Three straight previous increases delivered WKXW a collective +1.6 (5.2 – 6.0 – 6.7 – 6.8, 6+).
In an alternating up/down sequence that includes September’s half-share uptick (1.8 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 2.2, April 2020 through September 2020, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WOR “710 The Voice of New York” leaps from #20 to a four-way tie at #15.
Off two-tenths this time last month (.9 – .7, 6+), following four consecutive up or flat trends that accounted for a net gain of four-tenths (.5 – .8 – .9 – .9 – .9, 6+), Red Apple Media’s WABC is unlisted in September.
Beasley Media Group’s WCTC “Talk Radio 1450 The Voice of Central Jersey,” which notched a July .1 (#30, 6+), isn’t listed in back-to-back reports.

Sports Talk

Picking up one-tenth in both July and August (2.3 – 2.4 – 2.5, 6+), Entercom-owned/Yankees key station WFAN relinquishes three-tenths to 2.2 (6+) and is part of that four-way scrum at #15. Its July increase interrupted three consecutive decreases that resulted in a -1.9 (4.2 – 2.9 – 2.6 – 2.3, 6+). Finishing at #30 in July with a .1 (6+), its internet stream has vanished from print in August and September.
Advancing from #24 to #22, WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” posts a one-tenth gain in consecutive survey periods (.9 – 1.0 – 1.1, 6+). WEPN was unlisted in Middlesex five months in a row, before reappearing in June with a 1.2 (6+).

News

Entercom-owned/New York Mets flagship WCBS-AM was off one-half share in May/June (2.4 – 2.1 – 1.9, 6+); up a half-share in July/August (1.9 – 2.0 – 2.4, 6+); and now surrenders one-half share in September (2.4 – 1.9, #16 to #19, 6+).
Immediately after logging an August +.6 to 1.4 (6+), co-owned WINS falters by three-tenths to 1.1 (#21 to #22, 6+). Through three consecutive drops, WINS was -1.4 (2.2 – 1.4 – .9 – .8, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Albeit that it returns half of August’s +.4 (2.4 – 2.2, -.2, 6+), WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM progresses from #16 to that four-way logjam at #15. WNYC-FM had been without an increase three sweeps in succession for a net loss of -1.1 (3.1 – 2.3 – 2.0 – 2.0, 6+).
After notching a .2 (6+) in May, co-owned WNYC-AM is unlisted the fourth time in a row.

August 2020 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round Four

TALKERS | September 4, 2020

August 2020 PPM Data – Information for the August 2020 ratings period has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen Audio’s August 2020 survey period covered July 16 – August 12.

Managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” for spoken-word formats from these 12 PPM-markets.

AUSTIN

News/Talk

After picking up two-tenths to 5.7 (6+) this time last month, Waterloo Media Group-owned KLBJ-AM surrenders seven-tenths to 5.0 (third to fourth, 6+). “News Radio 590” was stuck on 5.5 (6+) in May and June.
The February 2020 through August 2020 topline for Entercom’s KJCE “Talk Radio 1370” is: .3 – .3 – .3 – .2 – .3 – .2 – .2 (#26 to #27, 6+).

Sports Talk

Off one-half share via three decreases in succession (1.3 – 1.2 – 1.0 – .8, 6+), Genuine Austin Radio’s KTXX “The Horn” slips from #22 to #24.
Losing one-tenth in back-to-back reports (.5 – .4 – .3, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KVET-AM “1300 AM The Zone” falls from #25 to #26.

Public Radio News/Talk

An overall -3.0 in four straight downturns (10.3 – 9.8 – 8.5 – 7.8 – 7.3, 6+), University of Texas at Austin-owned KUT purges 30% of that loss with a +.9 to 8.2 (6+). KUT set the pace five sweeps in a row before segueing to the runner-up slot in June (where it remains in July and August). Three successive increases yielded a +2.9, enabling KUT to hit double-digits for the first time in its PPM-history (7.4 – 8.9 – 9.5 – 3, 6+). Recent (6+) fluctuations include: +1.2 (August 2019); +2.0 (October); -1.9 (“Holiday” 2019); +1.5 (January 2020); +.8 (March); -1.3 (May); -.7 (June); and +.9 (August 2020).

RALEIGH

News/Talk

Although down one-tenth (6.8 – 6.7, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 Stay Connected” repeats in third-place. Its +.6 this time last month curtailed four consecutive decreases that resulted in an overall -1.4 (7.6 – 6.9 – 6.8 – 6.6 – 6.2, 6+).
A collective -1.2 in three straight drops (2.7 – 2.2 – 1.8 – 1.5, 6+), Curtis Media Group’s WPTF ends the slide with an improvement of three-tenths to 1.8 (6+); “News Radio 680” continues at #16.

Sports Talk

Having logged a 1.1 (6+) three times in the last four sweeps (1.1 – 1.2 – 1.1 – 1.1, 6+), Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC “99.9 The Fan” (Carolina Hurricanes) adds two-tenths to 1.3 (6+), yet backslides from #17 to #18. Co-owned WCMC-HD2 has a May 2020 through August 2020 topline of: .2 – .0 – .2 – .1 (#25, 6+).
In that same timeframe, co-owned WDNC “620 The Ticket” is trending .2 – .2 – .2 – .1 (#25, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Posting its fourth straight gain for a collective +1.5 (6.1 – 6.7 – 6.8 – 7.1 – 7.6, 6+), University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s WUNC “91.5 North Carolina Public Radio” is steady in the runner-up slot.
Co-owned WRQM has a May 2020 through August 2020 topline of: .2 – .3 – .3 – .1 (#25, 6+).

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk

Adding one-half share to July’s increase of one-tenth (7.4 – 7.5 – 8.0, 6+), Emmis-owned WIBC “Indy’s Mobile News 93.1” progresses from fourth to third. WIBC was -2.9 in May/June (10.3 – 8.9 – 7.4, 6+), directly after notching four straight increases for a +4.9 (5.4 – 7.6 – 8.0 – 8.8 – 10.3, 6+).

Sports Talk

Cluster-mate WFNI (Pacers) has lost six-tenths owing to three drops in a row (2.5 – 2.2 – 2.0 – 1.9, 6+), but “The Fan – Indy’s Sports Center” remains at #15.
After having its 6+ AQH share sliced by 50% (-.7) in June/July (1.4 – 1.1 – .7, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WNDE “Indy’s Sports Station” gains one-tenth in August to .8 (flat at #19, 6+).
Unlisted the third sweep in a row is Emmis’ WIBC-HD3, which logged a .1 (6+) in May.

Public Radio News/Talk

Four consecutive downturns by WFYI have accounted for a -1.7 (5.3 – 4.0 – 3.9 – 3.7 – 3.6 – 3.5, 6+), as the Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting facility exits the top ten (#9 to #11). This follows three gains in a row that netted a +1.6 (3.7 – 4.6 – 4.8 – 5.3 , 6+).

MILWAUKEE

News/Talk

A collective -2.4 as a result of three declines in succession (9.3 – 8.6 – 7.2 – 6.8, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WISN not only roars back with a +1.8 to 8.6 (6+), “News/Talk 1130” leaps from fourth to first. WISN was on top in April and May, as well. The just-concluded negative streak immediately followed four straight upticks that accounted for a +5.3 (4.0 – 4.2 – 5.2 – 5.8 – 9.3, 6+).
In a somewhat similar vein, Good Karma Brands’ WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station,” which was without an increase three times in a row for a net loss of eight-tenths (6.3 – 6.1 – 5.5 – 5.5, 6+), erases that deficit with a +1.2 to 6.7 (unchanged at #5, 6+). The flagship of the Brewers and Bucks was a combined +1.2 in March/April (5.1 – 5.7 – 6.3, 6+). Following back-to-back postings of .3 (6+), WTMJ’s internet stream has disappeared from print the second month in a row.
Alpha Media-owned WLIP had a repetitive March 2020 through July 2020 topline of: .5 – .6 – .5 – .6 – .5 (#18, 6+), but “AM 1050 Kenosha’s News & Talk” is unlisted in August.

Sports Talk

Three of Milwaukee’s four sports talkers improve by two-tenths in August, including Good Karma Brands’ WKTI “94.5 ESPN” (.4 – .6, 6+), which advances from #20 to #17.
WKTI is now tied with iHeartMedia-owned WRNW “97.3 The Game – Milwaukee’s Sports Talk That Rocks,” which posts a .6 (6+) the fifth time in the last six reports: (.6 – .7 – .6 – .6 -.6 – .6, flat at #17, 6+).
By gaining two-tenths (.3 – .5, 6+), Entercom’s WSSP “Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” cracks the top twenty (#21 to #20).
After ten straight sweeps without an increase for a net loss of one-half share (.7 – .6 – .5 – .4 – .4 – .4 – .4 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .2, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WOKY “The Big 920” pulls the plug with a +.2 to .4 (#23 to #21, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Trending 6 – 3.9 – 3.5 (June – July – August, 6+), University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM slips from ninth to tenth.
Off one-half share through three straight down or flat reports (1.4 – 1.4 – 1.0 – .9, 6+), Wisconsin Public Radio‘s WHAD is now a combined +.4 in July/August (.9 – 1.0 – 1.3, #16 to #12, 6+). Stuck on .2 (6+) the past three months, WHAD’s internet stream improves to .3 (#23, 6+).

NASHVILLE

News/Talk

Piling on a +.9 to July’s gain of two-tenths (4.6 – 4.8 – 5.7, 6+), Cumulus Media-owned WWTN jumps from ninth to fifth. “Super Talk 99.7” was -.8 in May/June (5.4 – 5.3 – 4.6, 6+), following March/April’s +.7 (4.7 – 5.3 – 5.4, 6+).
In three downturns in succession, iHeartMedia’s WLAC was -1.0 (2.7 – 2.4 – 2.0 – 1.7, 6+); however, “Talk Radio 1510” wipes away precisely half that shortfall with a +.5 to 2.2 (#17 to #16, 6+). WLAC was a combined +.5 in March/April (2.2 – 2.3 – 2.7, 6+).

Sports Talk

Despite being up eight-tenths in July/August (2.4 – 2.9 – 3.2, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” backslides from #13 to #14.
Without an increase the past six sweeps for a 70% loss (-.7) of its 6+ AQH share (1.0 – .6 – .4 – .4 – .3 – .3 – .3, 6+), Cromwell Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” (Predators) applies the brakes with a +.3 to .6 (#23 to #21, 6+).
May 2020 through August 2020, co-owned WBUZ-HD3 is trending: .2 – .2 – .2 – .1 (#24, 6+).

News

Locked on .2 (6+) in June and July while in its contemporary Christian format, iHeartMedia’s WNRQ-HD2 has since flipped to the Black Information Network and posts a .1 in August (#24, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Continuing an alternating up/down sequence that began in April and includes August’s positive spike of four-tenths (4.0 – 3.7 – 4.0 – 3.8 – 4.2, 6+), Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM “NPR News and Classical Music” remains at #11.

PROVIDENCE

News/Talk

Notwithstanding that it is an overall -1.9 in four drops in succession (6.1 – 5.6 – 4.7 – 4.4 – 4.2, 6+), Cumulus Media-owned WPRO-AM advances from seventh to sixth. “News Talk 630” had more than doubled (+3.6) its 6+ AQH share in four straight up or flat trends (2.5 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 6.1, 6+).
Up one-tenth (1.2 – 1.3, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WHJJ “News Radio 920” progresses from #16 to #14.
Conversely, Cumulus Media’s WPRV “AM 790 Talk & Business” drops one-tenth (.5 – .4, 6+) and repeats at #22.

Sports Talk

After essentially losing half its 6+ AQH share (-2.1) in six straight down or flat survey periods (1 – 3.4 – 3.1 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.1 – 2.0, 6+), Entercom’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” (Red Sox affiliate of co-owned flagship WEEI-FM) dials up a half-share increase to 2.5 (ninth to eighth, 6+).

News-Talk

Frozen on 1.5 (6+) in June and July, iHeartMedia Boston’s WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” drops two-tenths to 1.3 (6+) and is unchanged at #14.

Public Radio News/Talk

Following four straight sweeps without an increase for a net loss of -1.3 (3.2 – 3.0 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 1.9, 6+), WGBH Educational Foundation Boston’s WGBH wipes away roughly half that shortfall with a +.6 to 2.5 and enters the top ten (#11 to #8, 6+).
Down one-half share in three straight negative or neutral moves (2.1 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.6 , 6+), Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN purges the deficit with a +.5 (2.1, #12 to #11, 6+).
Flat at #23, The Wheeler School-owned WELH “89.3 The Public’s Radio” has a March 2020 through August 2020 topline of: .4 – .6 – .4 – .4 – .3 – .3 (6+).

NORFOLK

Sports Talk

After sputtering by one-half share in June, Max Broadcast Group’s WVSP “ESPN Radio 94.1” expunges the loss with a July/August +.5 (1.0 – 1.3 – 1.5, #12 to #11, 6+). May’s increase of two tenths interrupted seven straight down or flat reports that accounted for a net loss of nine-tenths (2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.3, 6+).

News

An alternating down/up pattern by iHeartMedia alternative WNOH included July’s -.8, which took “Alt 105.3” below a one-share: 1.8 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.4 – 1.5 – .7 (6+). Now part of iHeartMedia’s Black Information Network, WNOH recorded a .6 in the August report (#14, 6+).

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk

An overall -3.9 via three drops in a row (13.4 – 10.4 – 9.9 – 9.5, 6+), Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM ends the skid with an August +.9 to 10.4 (6+) and remains in the runner-up slot. Immediately prior, “104.5 Jacksonville’s News, Weather, and Traffic” netted a +5.3 in five consecutive increases (8.1 – 8.3 – 9.8 – 10.4 – 11.8 – 13.4, 6+).

Sports Talk

Recapturing the three-tenths it squandered this time last month (.9 – .6 – .9, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WFXJ “930 The Game – Jacksonville’s Sports Leader” climbs from #19 to #18. “The Game” was a combined +.6 in March/April (.8 – 1.2 – 1.4, 6+) but surrendered that entire increase in May.
Up two-tenths (.1 – .3, 6+), Cox Media Group’s WOKV-AM “ESPN Jacksonville 690 AM” checks in at #22.

Public Radio News/Talk

A combined +1.5 in June/July (2.5 – 3.7 – 4.0, 6+), WJCT forfeits four-tenths to 3.6 (6+) and departs the top ten (#10 to #12). WJCT previously posted back-to-back losses of seven-tenths (3.9 – 3.2 – 2.5, 6+).

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk

Without an increase the fourth time in a row for a net forfeiture of -1.1 (4.7 – 4.6 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.6, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WJNO “1290 The Palm Beaches’ News & Talk” repeats in seventh-place. Four consecutive up or flat reports generated an overall +1.9 (8 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.5 – 4.7, 6+).
By gaining one-tenth to 2.0 (6+), co-owned WZZR not only returns to the top ten (#12 to #10), “Real Radio 94.3” halts three consecutive down or flat sweeps that produced a net decrease of three-tenths (2.2 – 2.0 – 1.9 – 1.9, 6+).
More than doubling (+.9) its 6+ AQH share in four straight improvements (.7 – 1.1 – 1.2 – 1.3 – 1.6, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting’s WFTL “News Talk 850” inches up from #15 to #14.
Locked on .7 (6+) in April and May, iHeartMedia Miami’s WIOD is stuck on .6 (6+) the third time in a row; “610 News Radio” exits the top twenty (#19 to #21).

Sports Talk

For the fourth time in the last five reports, Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” logs a .2 (.2 – .7 – .2 – .2 – .2, flat at #24, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Flat at #8, Dade County School Board’s WLRN is down three-tenths in July/August (3.5 – 3.4 – 3.2, 6+). Prior to May’s loss of one-tenth, WLRN was an overall +.9 in four straight up or flat reports (2.0 – 2.5 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.9, 6+).
Unlisted in June and July, WLRN-HD2 resurfaces with a .2 (#24, 6+).

GREENSBORO

News/Talk

Following three straight drops that accounted for a -1.4 (5.6 – 5.0 – 4.8 – 4.2, 6+), WPTI “94.5 Your News, Talk, & Sports Station” erases more than half that shortfall with a +.8 to 5.0 (ninth to seventh, 6+). The iHeartMedia outlet had been a collective +2.6 via four consecutive gains (3.0 – 3.9 – 4.7 – 5.1 – 5.6, 6+).

Sports Talk

The April 2020 through August 2020 topline for Curtis Media Group-owned WSJS “Triad Sports” is: .5 – .5 -.4 – .6 – .6, unchanged at #15, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

In addition to being +1.1 through three straight bumps (2.8 – 3.1 – 3.6 – 3.9, 6+), Wake Forest University news/talk WFDD cracks the top ten (#11 to #10).
The alternating (May 2020 through August 2020) down/up sequence by University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s WUNC includes August’s increase of three-tenths: 1.5 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.4 – 1.7 (steady at #13, 6+).

MEMPHIS

News/Talk

A combined -1.0 in July/August (5.5 – 5.4 – 4.5, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WREC “600 AM – Memphis’ News, Traffic, & Weather” slips from seventh to eighth. WREC spiraled by -1.5 in May.

Sports Talk

Up seven-tenths in July/August (1.8 – 2.0 – 2.5, steady at #13, 6+), Entercom’s WMFS “ESPN Sports Radio” has its best 6+-stat (2.5) since February’s 3.1. For the fourth time in a row and fifth time in the last six sweeps, its internet stream logs a .3 (.3 – .6 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .3, #18, 6+).
Likewise, Entercom-owned WMC-AM “680 AM ESPN Sports Radio” records a .2 (6+) the fourth time in the last five survey periods (.2 – .3 – .2 – .2 – .2, #21 to #19, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Continuing that theme, Mid-South Public Communications Foundation-owned WKNO “91.1 NPR For The Mid-South” has notched a 1.5 (6+) three times in the last six sweeps and a 1.0 (6+) the other three reports (1.5 – 1.5 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.5, #16 to #15, 6+).

HARTFORD

News/Talk

Storming back from July’s -1.7 with an August increase of eight-tenths (6.1- 6.9, 6+), Entercom-owned WTIC-AM vaults from #7 to a three-way tie at #3. Entering the July sweep, “News Talk 1080” was +2.1 via six successive up or flat moves (5.7 – 6.1 – 6.2 – 7.2 – 7.6 – 7.8 – 7.8, 6+).
Surrendering half of the six-tenths it gained this time last month (1.3 – 1.0, -.3, 6+), Red Wolf Broadcasting’s WDRC-AM “AM 1360 The Talk of Connecticut” drops from #13 to #14.
Despite improving by one-tenth (.2 – .3, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WPOP backslides from #15 to #16. “News Radio 1410” had posted a .2 (6+) in each of the past three survey periods.

Sports Talk

Co-owned WUCS “97.9 ESPN Hartford,” which was down one-half share in June/July (1.4 – 1.1 – .9, 6+), picks up one-tenth and one ranker (1.2, #14 to #13, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

A combined +.4 in July/August (2.6 – 2.9 – 3.0, 6+), Connecticut Public Broadcasting Network-owned WNPR “Connecticut’s Public Media Source for News & Ideas” is steady in tenth-place. Four successive reports without an increase had resulted in a -2.0 (4.6 – 4.3 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 2.6, 6+).
Having lost half (-.2) its 6+ AQH share as a result of six consecutive sweeps without an increase (.4 – .3 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2, 6+), University of Massachusetts-owned WFCR “New England Public Radio” curtails the skid with a one-tenth bump to .3 (6+) but drops from #15 to #16.

August 2020 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round Three

TALKERS | September 3, 2020

August 2020 PPM Data – Information for the August 2020 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 August 2020 survey period covered July 16 – August 12.

Managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” for spoken-word formats from these 12 PPM-markets.

PORTLAND

News/Talk

An August loss of six-tenths to 5.9 (6+) by Alpha Media-owned KXL expunges its June/July +.5 (6.0 – 6.4 – 6.5, 6+) as “FM News 101 – Stay Connected” slips from third to fourth. This (5.9) is KXL’s lowest 6+-stat since February’s 4.9.
Following a July gain of two-tenths to 3.8 (6+), iHeartMedia’s KEX “News Radio 1190 – Depend On Us” plummets by -1.1 to 2.7 (#12 to #17, 6+). Its June drop of three-tenths followed nine straight up or flat moves that generated an overall +1.6 (2.3 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.8 – 3.2 – 3.8 – 3.9, 6+).
Locked on 1.4 (6+) in June and July, Alpha Media’s KUFO “Freedom 970” sputters by two-tenths to 1.2 (6+) but repeats at #21.
After logging either a .4 (6+) or .5 (6+) in each of the last eleven survey periods, Salem Media Group’s KPAM breaks the streak with a .6 (6+). Moreover, in three reports in a row without a loss, “AM 860 The Answer” nets two-tenths (.4 – .4 – .5 – .6, #27 to #25, 6+).

Sports Talk

For the fourth time in the last five survey periods, Entercom-owned KFXX “1080 The Fan” notches a 1.1 (1.1 – 1.1 – .9 – 1.1 – 1.1, flat at #22, 6+).
Directly after scoring four-tenths in three consecutive gains (1.5 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.9, 6+), Alpha Media’s KXTG “The Game” is -1.1 in three down or flat moves in a row (1.9 – 1.6 – .8 – .8, unchanged at #23, 6+).
Advancing from #30 to #28, iHeartMedia-owned KPOJ “Sports Radio 620” (Trailblazers) notches its fourth straight report without a loss for a net increase of three-tenths (.2 – .2 – .2 – .3 – .5, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Despite posting a fourth consecutive decrease for an overall -1.7 (10.1 – 9.3 – 9.1 – 8.8 – 8.4, 6+), Oregon Public Broadcasting’s KOPB is #1 the fifth time in a row. KOPB was a combined +1.9 in March/April (8.2 – 9.9 – 10.1, 6+). The May 2020 through August 2020 topline for its internet stream is: .9 – .7 – .6 – .8 (#24 to #23, 6+).

CHARLOTTE

News/Talk

Down or flat the fourth time in a row for a -1.2 (7.1 – 6.3 – 6.0 – 5.9 – 5.9, 6+), Entercom-owned WBT slips from third to fifth. Just prior, “Charlotte’s News Talk” had more than doubled (+3.6) its 6+ AQH share through four increases in a row (3.5 – 4.9 – 5.3 – 5.7 – 7.1, 6+). Sports Talk

After being down or flat the past four months for a net loss of seven-tenths (1.8 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.3 – 1.1, 6+), co-owned WFNZ “The Fan – Charlotte’s Sports Leader” (Hornets) ends the slide with an improvement of one-tenth (1.2, #18 to #17).
A no-show in July, following a .1 (6+) in May and June, Beasley Media Group’s WBCN “Fox Sports Charlotte” reappears with a .1 (#21, 6+).

News

The very consistent January 2020 through July 2020 topline for iHeartMedia’s WRFX-HD2 was: .2 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .1 – .2 – .1 (6+). As of June 29, it flipped from contemporary Christian to iHeartMedia’s Black Information Network and is unlisted in August 2020.

Public Radio News/Talk

Following three straight sweeps without a loss that yielded seven-tenths (2.7 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.4, 6+), University Radio Foundation news/talk WFAE surrenders one-half share to 2.9 (#11 to #13, 6+).
This is the third time in the last four sweeps that South Carolina Educational TV’s WRJA “South Carolina Public Radio” is unlisted (.0 – .0 – .1 – .0, 6+).

SAN ANTONIO

News/Talk

The seven most recent fluctuations by iHeartMedia-owned/Spurs flagship WOAI “News Radio 1200 – San Antonio’s News, Traffic, & Weather” are: +1.0 (5.3 – 5.7 – 6.3, January/February, 6+); -.5 (6.3 – 5.8, March, 6+); +2.1 (5.8 – 7.9, April, 6+); -.8 (7.9 – 7.1, May, 6+); -.6 (7.1 – 6.5, June, 6+); -1.0 (6.5 – 5.5, July, 6+); and now +.5 in August (5.5 – 6.0, steady at #2, 6+).
Remaining at #20, Alpha Media news/talk KTSA “Stay Connected” has its fourth successive up or flat trend for a +.7 (1.4 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 2.1 – 2.1, 6+).

Sports Talk

Returning the two-tenths it picked up this time last month (.4 – .6 – .4, #27, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KTKR “Ticket 760 – San Antonio’s Sports Station” drops from #27 to #29.
Meanwhile, Alpha Media’s KZDC “ESPN San Antonio” is off three-tenths (.5 – .2, #29 to #32, 6+).
KTKR and KZDC were deadlocked at #28 in May and at #30 in June.

Public Radio News/Talk

Within 2.5 – 2.9 range (6+) in each of the last five sweeps (9 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.8 – 2.7, 6+), Texas Public Radio’s KSTX drops from #16 to #17.

SACRAMENTO

News Talk

By gaining one-tenth to 8.0 (third to second, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KFBK applies the brakes to three successive declines that totaled a -3.7 (11.6 – 9.4 – 8.9 – 7.9, 6+). Immediately before shifting to #3 this time last month, “Sacramento’s News, Weather and Traffic Station” spent six straight sweeps at #1. KFBK was +2.7 in January and a combined +3.2 in March/April (8.4 – 10.3 – 11.6, 6+). April 2020’s 6 is its highest 6+-stat in the PPM-era, besting the previous high (10.3) set in March 2020.
After exploding with a +1.2 to 3.0 (6+) this time last month, cluster-mate KSTE “Talk 650” forfeits one-half share to 2.5 (#13 to #14, 6+). Prior to July’s 3.0 (6+), KSTE last reached the three-share level in September 2019 (3.0, as well).

Sports Talk

As a result of four straight reports without an increase, Entercom’s KIFM-AM “ESPN Radio 1320” has lost nearly half (-.5) its 6+ AQH share (1.1 – .8 – .6 – .6 – .6, 6+) but repeats at #21.
Off three-tenths in June/July (.8 – .6 – .5, 6+), Bonneville-owned KHTK “Sports 1140” (Kings) adds one-tenth to .6 (6+) and catches KIFM at #21.

Public Radio News/Talk

Three modest increases by KXJZ accounted for a half-share increase (4.5 – 4.8 – 4.9 – 5.0, 6+); however, the Capital Public Radio facility falters by six-tenths to 4.4 (sixth to seventh, 6+).
Doubling July’s .2 to .4 (6+), KQED, Inc.’s KQEI checks in at #25.
Unlisted the past three sweeps, California State University-Sacramento’s KUOP logs a .1 (#28, 6+).

PITTSBURGH

News/Talk

Erasing July’s gain of three-tenths with August’s dip of four-tenths (5.1 – 5.4 – 5.0, 6+), Entercom-owned KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020” shifts from fourth to fifth. KDKA-AM was a combined -2.2 in May/June (7.3 – 6.5 – 5.1, 6+), immediately after being +4.2 via four straight upticks (3.1 – 4.0 – 4.3 – 5.6 – 7.3, 6+).

Sports Talk

On the heels of June/July’s -1.9 (6.3 – 4.5 – 4.4, 6+), co-owned KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan” (Pirates) dials up a +1.3 to 5.7 (ninth to fourth, 6+). A May increase of four-tenths interrupted three straight decreases that resulted in a -2.0 (7.9 – 7.5 – 6.7 – 5.9, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

After trending 5.4 – 5.1 – 5.4 (May – June – July, 6+), Essential Public Media’s WESA “90.5 Pittsburgh’s NPR Station” falters by seven-tenths to 4.7 (fourth to sixth, 6+).

SALT LAKE CITY

News/Talk

Stacking three-tenths onto July’s half-share increase (5.3 – 5.8 – 6.1, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KNRS “Talk Radio 105.9 – Listen And You’ll Know” continues in fifth-place. KNRS was -1.0 in May/June (6.3 – 5.4 – 5.3, 6+), directly after posting four consecutive sweeps without a loss for a +2.2 (4.1 – 5.0 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 6.3, 6+).
Even though Bonneville’s KSL is down the fourth straight month for an overall -3.7 (8.8 – 6.0 – 5.5 – 5.2 – 5.1, 6+), “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” progresses from eighth to seventh. A combined +3.9 in March/April (4.9 – 6.0 – 8.8, 6+), KSL had an April-only stay at #1.
Owing to four negative or neutral trends in a row, Cumulus Media-owned KKAT has its 6+ AQH share reduced by exactly 50% (1.0 – .7 – .5 – .5 – .5, 6+). Conversely, “860 AM – Utah’s Big Talker” more than tripled (+.7) its 6+ AQH share through four straight sweeps without a loss (.3 – .6 – .8 – .8 – 1.0, 6+).

Sports Talk

Ever since resurfacing in print this past June – after an approximately three-year hiatus – Larry H. Miller Communications Corporation’s KZNS-AM “The Zone Sports Network 1280 AM” (Utah Jazz) is trending .6 – .6 – .8 (#19 to #18, 6+).
In the matching three-sweep period (and under the same scenario), co-owned KZNS-FM “The Zone Sports Network 97.5” has a topline of .4 – .3 – .6 (#22, 6+). KZNS-FM’s internet stream pops on with a .2 (#24, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Continuing an alternating down/up sequence that includes August’s +.1 (2.4 – 2.0 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 2.3, 6+), University of Utah’s KUER continues at #15. KUER was down nine-tenths in April/May (2.9 – 2.4 – 2.0, 6+).
Stuck on .5 (6+) in June and July, Brigham Young University-owned KUMT picks up two-tenths to .7 (#21 to #19, 6+).
For the third time in the last four sweeps, Brigham Young University’s KBYU-HD2 posts a .1 (.1 – .0 – .1 – .1, #26, 6+).
Meanwhile, Wasatch Public Media’s KCPW notches its third straight .1 (#26, 6+).

LAS VEGAS

News Talk

An increase of six-tenths (2.4 – 3.0, 6+) enables Entercom-owned KXNT “News Talk Radio 840” to leap from #18 to #13.
Up one-tenth in back-to-back reports (2.2 – 2.3 – 2.4, 6+ ), Beasley Media Group’s KDWN “AM 720 Where Las Vegas Comes to Talk” progresses from #20 to #18.
Locked on .5 (6+) in June and July, Kemp Broadcasting’s KMZQ “AM 670 The Right Talk for Vegas” adds two-tenths to .7 (#27 to #25, 6+).

Sports Talk

After having its AQH share split in half (.8 – .4 – .4, 6+), Lotus Communications’ KWWN “ESPN Radio 1100” gains three-tenths to .7 (#29 to #25, 6+).
Cluster-mate KRLV “Raider Nation 920” gains one-tenth (.1 – .2, #31, 6+).
At the same time, Entercom’s KXST “CBS Sports Radio 1140 AM” is down one-tenth (.2 – .1, 6+) and checks in at #33.

Public Radio News/Talk

Immediately following three straight improvements that accounted for a +1.3 (2.6 – 3.1 – 3 – 3.9, 6+), Nevada Public Radio’s KNPR is -1.4 in three drops in succession (3.9 – 3.7 – 2.9 – 2.5, #13 to #17, 6+).

ORLANDO

News Talk

A collective -2.6 in three successive setbacks (6.7 – 6.0 – 4.5 – 4.1, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WTKS “Real Radio 104.1 – We Say What We Want” ends the slide with a +.4 to 4.5 (steady at #8, 6+). WTKS was +2.3 in March/April (4.4 – 5.1 – 6.7, 6+).
After being off three times in succession for a -1.3 (8 – 2.2 – 1.6 – 1.5, 6+), co-owned WFLF “News Radio Orlando” dials up a +.6 to 2.1 (#17 to #15, 6+).
Approximately 11 days into the July survey period (6/29), Cox Media Group’s WDBO-FM “News 96.5” became Spanish contemporary WOEX “Exitos 5.” Its news/talk programming shifted to WDBO-AM, where “Orlando’s News Talk” replaces sports talk “ESPN 580 Orlando.” In the August sweep, WDBO-AM slumps from 2.4 (6+) to 1.4 (#22, 6+). Its AM signal is simulcast on FM translator W297BB (107.3 FM).

Sports Talk

After trending .9 – .8 – .9 (6+), iHeartMedia-owned WYGM “FM 96.9 The Game – Orlando’s Sports Leader” (Magic) gains three-tenths in back-to-back reports (.9 – 1.2 – 1.5, flat at #20, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Tacking on seven-tenths to July’s +.1 (2.3 – 2.4 – 3.1, 6+), Community Communications’ WMFE “90.7 Public Radio for Central Florida” continues at #13.

CINCINNATI

News/Talk

Boasting the largest (6+) July 2020 – August 2020 increase (+2.3) by any station in the 36 PPM-markets highlighted thus far, iHeartMedia’s WLW (9.2 – 11.5, 6+) marches from second to first. The flagship of the Reds had been down three times in a row for a collective -3.7 (12.9 – 10.3 – 9.4 – 9.2, 6+). This directly follows four straight gains that netted a +5.8 (7.1 – 8.1 – 8.3 – 10.1 – 12.9, 6+).
Despite adding one-tenth to July’s +.4 (3.6 – 4.0 – 4.1, 6+), co-owned WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station” backslides from eighth to ninth. WKRC was +.8 (May) and -.7 (June).

Sports Talk

More than doubling (+.5) its 6+ AQH share in July/August (.4 – .7 – .9, 6+), cluster-mate WCKY “Cincinnati’s ESPN 1530” cracks the top twenty (#21 to #20).
Unchanged at #24, co-owned WSAI “Fox Sports 1360” logs a .1 (6+) the third time in a row.

Public Radio News/Talk

A cumulative +1.3 via three straight bumps (1.8 – 2.1 – 2.4 – 3.1, 6+), Cincinnati Public Radio’s WVXU “Connecting You To A World of Ideas” leaps from #16 to #11.

CLEVELAND

News/Talk

Not only does iHeartMedia-owned WTAM (Indians and Cavaliers) vault from fifth to second, “1100 Cleveland’s News Radio” erupts with a whopping +2.0 to 8.6 (6+). The increase halts three downturns in a row that led to a -2.2 (8.8 – 7.7 – 7.1 – 6.6, 6+). The just-concluded negative streak followed a collective +4.6 through four straight spikes (4.2 – 5.3 – 5.8 – 7.2 – 8.8, 6+).

Sports Talk

Off six-tenths in June/July (2.7 – 2.2 – 2.1, 6+), Entercom’s WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” picks up one-tenth and one ranker (2.2, #14 to #13, 6+). In May, WKRK gained three-tenths to suspend three consecutive decreases that accounted for an approximately 52% loss (-2.5) of its 6+ AQH share (4.9 – 3.6 – 3.2 – 2.4, 6+).

News

The January 2020 through July 2020 topline for iHeartMedia alternative WMMS-HD2 was: .9 – 1.1 – 1.1 – .9 – 1.1 – .9 – .5 (6+). Now an affiliate of The Black Information Network, WMMS-HD2 is unlisted in August.

Public Radio News/Talk

Following a July increase of one-half share to 3.8 (6+), Ideastream-owned WCPN sputters by three-tenths to 3.5 (flat at #11, 6+). WCPN posted three consecutive gains that netted a +2.1 (3.1 – 4.2 – 4.4 – 5.2, 6+), but then recorded three decreases in a row resulting in a -1.9 (5.2 – 4.8 – 3.9 – 3.3, 6+).

KANSAS CITY

News/Talk

Bouncing back from June/July’s -2.5 (6.8 – 5.5 – 4.3, 6+) with an August +.7 to 5.0 (6+), Entercom’s KMBZ-FM “98.1 News-Traffic-Weather” jumps from tenth to sixth. KMBZ-FM logged a +1.4 in May (5.4 – 6.8, 6+). Off one-tenth (.3 – .2, 6+), its internet stream slips from #25 to #27.
Steady at #16, co-owned KMBZ-AM “Talk 980” has a May 2020 through August 2020 topline of: 2.5 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.5 (6+).
By gaining one-tenth to 1.2 (6+), Cumulus Media’s KCMO-AM pulls the plug on five straight down or flat reports that resulted in a net loss of three-tenths (1.4 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.1, 6+). Nonetheless, “Talk Radio 710 AM” backslides from #20 to #22.

Sports Talk

Union Broadcasting’s WHB “Sports Radio 810” echoes July’s AQH share and market rank (2.9, #14, 6+).
After losing two-thirds (-2.0) of its 6+ AQH share in five successive slips (3.0 – 2.6 – 1.8 – 1.4 – 1.3 – 1.0, 6+), Entercom-owned KCSP “610 Sports Radio” (Royals) is a combined +1.5 in July/August (1.0 – 1.1 – 2.5, #20 to #16, 6+).
Popping on with a .1 (#28, 6+) is Union Broadcasting’s KCTE “ESPN Kansas City.”

Public Radio News/Talk

Off two-tenths (4.5 – 4.3, 6+), University of Missouri-owned KCUR slips from ninth to tenth. KCUR was +1.4 in June/July (3.1 – 3.6 – 4.5, 6+) and -1.7 in April/May (4.8 – 3.5 – 3.1, 6+).

COLUMBUS

News/Talk

After eroding by -3.0 in May/June (10.6 – 9.0 – 7.6, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WTVN responds with a +1.1 in July/August (7.6 – 8.1 – 8.7, 6+) and carries on in the runner-up slot. Immediately prior, “News Radio 610” was a collective +4.6 as a result of five successive increases (6.0 – 6.1 – 8.0 – 8.6 – 9.4 – 10.6, 6+).

Sports Talk

The three most recent moves by Tegna’s WBNS-FM “Sports Radio 97.1 The Fan” are: -.7 (June); +.7 (July); and now +1.0 in August (3.6 – 2.9 – 3.6 – 4.6, eighth to sixth, 6+). WBNS-FM (Blue Jackets) was -1.7 in March/April (5.2 – 4.8 – 3.5, 6+).
Unlisted in May, co-owned WBNS-AM returned with a .2 (6+) in June and July, but drops one-tenth in August to .1 (flat at #16, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Up a combined nine-tenths in July/August (9 – 4.1 – 4.8, 6+), Ohio State University’s WOSU inches up from sixth to fifth.

August 2020 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round Two

TALKERS | September 2, 2020

August 2020 PPM Data. Information for the August 2020 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 August 2020 survey period covered July 16 – August 12.

Managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” for spoken-word formats from these 12 PPM-markets.

WASHINGTON, DC

News/Talk

Setting the pace the past four months, Cumulus Media’s WMAL falters by one-half share (8.4 – 7.9, 6+) and segues to the runner-up slot. Just prior to the May sweep, WMAL doubled (+5.0) its 6+ AQH share through four straight positive spikes (5.0 – 6.9 – 7.3 – 7.8 – 10.0, 6+). April’s 0 marked the first time in WMAL’s PPM-history that it reached double-digits.
For the 26^th sweep in succession, Radio One’s WOL “News Talk – Where Information Is Power” is unlisted.

Sports Talk

Tacking a +.8 onto July 2020’s increase of three-tenths (1.3 – 1.6 – 2.4, 6+), Entercom-owned WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” (Washington Nationals) advances from #17 to #16. Its 4.8 (November 2019) is the heftiest 6+-share by any D.C. sports talk outlet in the PPM-era. WJFK-FM’s internet stream is trending: .2 – .3 – .3 – .4 (May 2020 through August 2020, #28 to #27, 6+).
Through three straight down or flat trends, Radio One’s WTEM “980 The Team” has lost three-tenths and exits the top twenty (1.1 – 1.0 – 1.0 – .8, #20 to #21, 6+). “The Team” previously gained four-tenths via three up or flat moves in a row (.7 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.1, 6+).
This is the fourth successive month that Cumulus Media’s WSBN “630 AM The Sports Capitol” has logged a .1 (flat at #31, 6+).

News

Following three consecutive months of occupying the runner-up slot, Hubbard Broadcasting’s WTOP-FM & WTLP-FM posts an uptick of eight-tenths (7.7 – 8.5, 6+) as “Washington’s Top News” takes over at #1.
Frozen on .5 (6+) in May and June, Entercom business news WDCH “Bloomberg1 & 105.7” is now locked on .7 (July and August, #21 to #22, 6+). After notching a .2 (6+) in June and July, its internet stream is unlisted in August.
Similarly, Black Information Network affiliates WUST and WMZQ-HD2 do not appear in print this month.

Public Radio News/Talk

An overall -2.1 via four straight down or flat trends (8.7 – 8.4 – 7.4 – 6.8 – 6.6, 6+), American University-owned WAMU applies the brakes with a +.6 to 7.3 (fifth to third, 6+). “The Mind Is Our Medium” was in a first-place tie with Hubbard Broadcasting’s WTOP-FM in February before taking sole possession of the lead in March.
Flat at #25, Pacifica Foundation’s WPFW is trending: .9 – .6 – .5 – .6 (May – June – July – August, 6+).

BOSTON

News/Talk

Following four successive sweeps without a loss that garnered a +2.5 (2.8 – 3.5 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 5.3, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WRKO “AM 680 – The Voice of Boston” is -1.4 via four slips in succession (5.3 – 4.8 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.9, seventh to eighth, 6+).
Having nearly doubled (+.5) its 6+ AQH share in April/May (.6 – 1.1 – 1.1, 6+), co-owned WXKS-AM “Talk 1200” sputters by a collective six-tenths in three straight declines (1.1 – .8 – .6 – .5, flat at #27, 6+).

Sports Talk

Adding a +.8 to July’s increase of two-tenths (3.9 – 4.1 – 4.9, 6+), Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Celtics and Bruins) climbs from eighth to seventh. This (4.9) is WBZ-FM’s best 6+-stat since March (5.8).
Although it repeats July’s 2.6 (6+), Entercom’s WEEI-FM jumps from #15 to #12. Before gaining one-tenth this time last month, the Boston Red Sox flagship was an overall -1.7 in four consecutive downturns (4.2 – 3.5 – 3.2 – 3.0 – 2.7 – 2.5, 6+). WEEI-FM’s internet stream notches a .2 (6+) the third time in a row (#31 to #30).
This is the third month in a row that co-owned WEEI-AM is unlisted.
Meanwhile, Providence sibling WVEI logs a .1 (6+) the third consecutive report and is unchanged at #33.

News – Talk

Despite losing the one-tenth it accrued this time last month (6.6 – 6.7 – 6.6, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WBZ-AM climbs from fourth to third. “News Radio 1030” was off one-half share in April/May (6.4 – 6.3 – 5.9, 6+).
This marks the fourth successive time that Beasley Media Group business news WRCA “Bloomberg Boston” logs a .1 (flat at #33, 6+).
Black Information Network affiliate WJMN-HD2 does not appear in Boston’s August 2020 report.

Public Radio News/Talk

In four straight down or flat trends, Boston University’s WBUR lost a collective half-share (3.7 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.2, 6+), but picks up two-tenths to 3.4 (steady at #10, 6+).
Following three improvements in a row that yielded a +1.7 (2.9 – 3.6 – 3.8 – 4.6, 6+), WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH is -2.0 in three drops in succession (4.6 – 3.2 – 2.8 – 2.6, unchanged at #12, 6+).
For the third time in a row co-owned WCAI is unlisted.

MIAMI

News/Talk

Locked on 1.7 (6+) in June and July, iHeartMedia-owned WIOD “News Radio 610 Miami’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station” adds one-tenth to 1.8 (6+) and repeats at #21.

Sports Talk

Off four-tenths in June/July (1.0 – .7 – .6, 6+), Entercom-owned WQAM “560 The Joe” is up one-tenth to .7 (flat at #26, 6+). July 2020’s .6 was its lowest 6+-stat in exactly one year (.6, as well, July 2019).
Albeit without an increase the third straight month for a net loss of three-tenths (.5 – .4 -.2 – .2, 6+), co-owned WAXY “Sports Talk 790 The Ticket” (Heat) improves from #30 to #29.
Repeating July’s .1 (6+), iHeartMedia’s WINZ “940 AM Miami’s Sports Station” (Marlins) inches up from #32 to #31.
Meanwhile, Entercom-owned WKIS-HD2 does not appear in print the third month in a row.

Public Radio News/Talk

After losing six-tenths in four consecutive slips (3.7 – 3.6 – 3.4 – 3.2 – 3.1, 6+), Dade County School Board’s WLRN answers with a +.2 to 3.3 (#13 to #11, 6+).

SEATTLE

News/Talk

Notwithstanding that it hasn’t recorded an increase the last three reports, Bonneville-owned KIRO-FM is only off one-tenth in that stretch (7.2 – 7.1 – 7.1 – 7.1, 6+). Moreover, “97.3 Seattle’s News/Seattle’s Talk” is #1 the sixth successive sweep. This directly follows a collective +2.4 via three straight boosts (4.8 – 6.0 – 6.9 – 7.2, 6+).
Anchored at #19 the fourth month in a row, cluster-mate KTTH “Conservative Talk Radio” is trending: 2.5 – 2.4 – 2.6 (June – July – August, 6+). Before dropping three-tenths in May, KTTH was +1.2 via five consecutive up or flat moves (1.6 – 1.8 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.6 – 2.8, 6+).
In March, Sinclair Broadcast Group-owned KVI posted a 1.1 (#22, 6+), but “Talk Radio 570” is unlisted the fifth straight month.

Sports Talk

A combined +1.0 in July/August (1.5 – 1.6 – 2.5, 6+), Bonneville’s KIRO-AM “ESPN 710” (Mariners) progresses from #23 to #21.
This is the third time in the last four reports that iHeartMedia-owned KJR-AM “Seattle’s Sports Radio 950” has posted a 1.0 (1.0 – .8 – 1.0 – 1.0, steady at #24, 6+).
Co-owned KFNQ “1090 AM” was stuck on .3 (6+) in May and June and is now locked on .2 (6+) in July and August (#29 to #30, 6+).

News

Having gained one-half share in June/July (4.4 – 4.6 – 4.9, 6+), KOMO forfeits one-half share to 4.4 (sixth to seventh, 6+). The Sinclair Broadcast Group facility dropped one-half share in April and again in May (5.4 – 4.9 – 4.4, 6+).
After logging a .1 (6+) in June, iHeartMedia-owned/Black Information Network affiliate KHHO is unlisted the second month in a row.
Meanwhile, this is the third consecutive report that Hubbard Broadcasting business news KKNW does not appear in print.

Public Radio News/Talk

Up a combined eight-tenths in June/July (4.6 – 5.1 – 5.4, 6+), Northwest Public Radio’s KUOW slips by one-tenth in AQH share and one ranker (5.3, fourth to fifth, 6+). KUOW was down nine-tenths in April/May (5.5 – 5.4 – 4.6, 6+).
Flat at #32, Washington State University-owned KSWS posts a .1 (6+) the fourth sweep in succession.

DETROIT

News/Talk

In three straight sweeps without an increase, Cumulus Media’s WJR was a collective -1.4 (4.8 – 4.1 – 3.4 – 3.4, 6+); however, “News Talk 760” regains two-tenths to 3.6 (#16 to #14, 6+). Just prior, WJR was +3.2 through four successive improvements (1.6 – 2.4 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 4.8, 6+).

Sports Talk

A combined +1.7 in July/August (3.6 – 4.1 – 5.3, 6+), Entercom-owned WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (Tigers, Pistons, Red Wings) catapults from #12 all the way to #3. Its half-share gain this time last month halted three straight drops that accounted for a -1.2 (4.8 – 3.9 – 3.8 – 3.6, 6+). WXYT-FM’s internet stream gains one-tenth (.3 – .3 – .4, 6+) and is flat at #23.
Unchanged at #25, cluster-mate WXYT-AM is trending: .1 – .2 – .1 – .1 (May 2020 through August 2020, 6+).

News

In a down/up/down sequence (5.7 – 5.4 – 5.5 – 5.3, May – June – July – August, 6+), WWJ “News Radio 950” is tied in third-place with co-owned sports talk WXYT-FM. WWJ previously was a collective +2.5 through four successive positive spikes (3.9 – 4.3 – 4.8 – 5.8 – 6.4, 6+).
WDFN posts a .2 (#24, 6+) the fourth time in a row. The iHeartMedia outlet joined the Black Information Network on June 29.

Public Radio News/Talk

Having more than doubled (+1.6) its 6+ AQH share in five successive increases (1.4 – 1.5 – 1.9 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 3.0, 6+), Wayne State University-owned WDET is down or flat the fourth time in a row for a net loss of -1.0 (3.0 – 2.5 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.0, flat at #20, 6+).
Off seven-tenths in April/May (2.3 – 1.7 – 1.6, 6+), Michigan Public Media’s WUOM is up a total of one-tenth in its third straight report without a loss and remains at #21 (1.6 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.7, 6+).

PHOENIX

News/Talk

This is the third straight up or flat move by Bonneville’s KTAR-FM for a net gain of two-tenths (4.6 – 4.6 – 4.7 – 4.8, unchanged at #5, 6+). KTAR-FM was a combined +2.3 in March/April (3.8 – 4.6 – 6.1, 6+).
Off one-tenth is iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” (4.4 – 4.3, 6+), which slips from sixth to seventh. Immediately prior to June’s -.7, KFYI nearly doubled (+2.3) its 6+ AQH share in seven up or flat reports in succession (2.5 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 3.4 – 4.7 – 4.8, 6+).

Sports Talk

A combined -.6 in June/July (2.2 – 1.8 – 1.6, 6+), Bonneville-owned KMVP-FM “98.7 Arizona Sports” (Diamondbacks) gains four-tenths to 2.0 (#23 to #21, 6+).
For the fourth time in a row, iHeartMedia’s KGME “Fox Sports 910” (Coyotes) records a .2 (flat at #31, 6+).
KGME is tied with Bonneville’s KTAR-AM, which is up one-tenth (.1 – .2, #32 to #31, 6+).
This is the fourth consecutive month that Hubbard Broadcasting’s KDUS “Sports AM 1060” has logged a .1 (#32 to #33, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

In eight of the last nine survey periods, KJZZ has posted a 6+ AQH share between 3.4 – 3.8 (3.5 – 3.7 – 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 4.2 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 3.9, 6+); the Maricopa County Community College-owned outlet carries on in tenth-place.

MINNEAPOLIS

News/Talk

A combined -1.3 in June/July (5.6 – 5.5 – 4.3, 6+), Entercom-owned WCCO “News Radio 830” recaptures three-tenths to 4.6 (6+) and is back in the top ten (#11 to #10). The key station of the Twins and Timberwolves had been an overall +2.0 as a result of three straight up or flat trends (3.6 – 4.6 – 5.6 – 5.6, 6+).
Following four sweeps in a row of recording a fluctuation of one-tenth (2.6 – 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.6, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KTLK “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” improves by four-tenths to 3.0 (#15 to #14, 6+).
Up four-tenths in July/August (1.9 – 2.0 – 2.3, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting’s KTMY is flat at #16. Immediately prior, “My Talk 107.1” suspended five straight down or flat moves that accounted for a net loss of nine-tenths (2.8 – 2.8 – 2.7 – 2.4 – 2.3 – 1.9, 6+).

Sports Talk

Having surrendered nine-tenths in June/July (5.9 – 5.6 – 5.0, 6+), following a May increase of four-tenths (5.5 – 5.9, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KFXN gains six-tenths to 5.6 (eighth to seventh, 6+). “Sports Radio 100.3 K-Fan” had a December-only stay at #1.
Hubbard Broadcasting’s KSTP-AM repeats July’s AQH share and market rank (.3, #24, 6+). Entering the July sweep, “ESPN 1500” had been without an increase the previous five times for a net loss of six-tenths or 75% of its 6+ AQH share (.8 – .7 – .5 – .5 – .5 – .2, 6+).

News

On June 29, iHeartMedia’s KQQL-HD2 joined the Black Information Network. In July, it notched a .2 (#25, 6+) but is unlisted in August.

Public Radio News/Talk

Netting six-tenths in three straight up or flat moves (6.6 – 7.0 – 7.0 – 7.2, 6+), Minnesota Public Radio’s KNOW progresses from third to second. KNOW was -1.6 in May (8.2 – 6.6, 6+).

SAN DIEGO

News/Talk

Falling from sixth to seventh, iHeartMedia news/talk KOGO “News Radio 600” is without an increase the fourth month in a row for a net loss of -2.2 (6.6 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 4.5 – 4.4, 6+). Entering the May sweep, KOGO was a collective +2.8 via three straight spikes (3.8 – 4.5 – 5.5 – 6.6, 6+).
In three successive San Diego drops, Los Angeles sibling KFI was -1.0 (3.2 – 2.8 – 2.6 – 2.2, 6+), but “AM 640” erases 20% of the deficit with a +.2 to 2.4 (#21 to #17, 6+). KFI was a combined +1.3 in March/April (1.9 – 2.4 – 3.2, 6+).
Co-owned KGB-AM (formerly Tegna’s KFMB-AM) is in an alternating down/up sequence that includes August’s -.6 (2.1 – 1.9 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 2.6 – 2.0, 6+); “AM 760” fades from the top twenty (#16 to #22).

Sports Talk

In addition to doubling July’s 1.3 (+1.3) and being without a loss the fourth time in succession for a net gain of +1.5 (1.1 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 2.6, 6+), Entercom’s KWFN “97.3 The Fan” (Padres) zooms from #21 to #16.
After losing eight-tenths in five straight sweeps without an increase (1.5 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.0 – .9 – .9 – .7, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KLSD “Fox Sports 1360 San Diego’s Sports Station” is up one-tenth in consecutive reports (.7 – .8 – .9, #23 to #24, 6+).

News

Co-owned Black Information Network affiliate KSSX-HD2 is unlisted in August.

Public Radio News/Talk

In a first-place tie this time last month, San Diego State University-owned KPBS breaks the deadlock by picking up one-tenth (6.3 – 6.4, 6+) and has sole possession of the top spot. Its three previous fluctuations were: -1.4 (8.5 – 7.1, May, 6+); -1.6 (7.1 – 5.5, June, 6+); and +.8 (5.5 – 6.3, July, 6+). Four increases in a row just prior netted a +3.7 (4.8 – 5.9 – 6.0 – 6.9 – 8.5, 6+).

TAMPA

News/Talk

Up one-half share via three consecutive positive or neutral moves (2.7 – 2.7 – 3.1 – 3.2, 6+), Cox Media Group-owned WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” progresses from #16 to #14. WHPT’s internet stream is a combined +1.6 in July/August (.8 – 1.5 – 2.4, #20 to #19, 6+).

A collective -1.7 in four straight down or flat sweeps (4.6 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.2 – 2.9, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WFLA “970 Tampa Bay’s News Radio” slips from #15 to #17.
Co-owned WHNZ “1250 Tampa Bay’s Impact Radio” is down three-tenths in July/August (.4 – .2 – .1, #31 to #33, 6+).

Sports Talk

After faltering by seven-tenths through four drops in a row (1.9 – 1.5 – 1.4 – 1.3 – 1.2, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “620 Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” (Rays) purges all but one-tenth of the shortfall (1.8, +.6, #22 to #20, 6+).

News

Locked on .1 (6+) the past three sweeps, Beasley Media Group business news WHFS gains two-tenths to .3 (#28 to #26, 6+).
Unlisted in August is iHeartMedia-owned Black Information Network affiliate WBTP-HD2.

Public Radio News/Talk

An overall +2.4 in eight consecutive sweeps without a loss (1.7 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 2.2 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 4.1, 6+), University of South Florida-owned WUSF is now down or flat the fifth straight report for a -1.2 (4.1 – 3.9 – 3.3 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 2.9, flat at #17, 6+). The May 2020 through August 2020 topline for its internet stream is: .4 – .3 – .4 – .3 (flat at #26, 6+).

DENVER

News/Talk

Adding three-tenths to July’s +.2 (3.8 – 4.0 – 4.3, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KDFD advances from ninth to eighth. “Freedom 93.7 – Real News, Real Talk” was down four-tenths in May and again in June (4.6 – 4.4 – 3.8, 6+).
Off four-tenths in three straight reports without an increase (2.1 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.7, 6+), cluster-mate KOA “Colorado’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station” (Rockies) completely eliminates that shortfall with a +.4 (2.1, #20 to #18, 6+).
Owing to three straight up or flat trends, co-owned KHOW “Talk Radio 630” nets two-tenths (1.1 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.3, 6+) and progresses from #23 to #22.

Sports Talk

Despite picking up two-tenths to 2.0 (6+), Bonneville-owned KKFN (Nuggets) backslides from #18 to #20. “Sports Radio 104.3 The Fan” was -1.3 in June/July (3.1 – 2.3 – 1.8, 6+).
Having lost half (-.3) its 6+ AQH share in June/July (.6 – .4 – .3, 6+), KSE Radio Ventures-owned KKSE-FM “Attitude Sports Radio 92.5” bounces back with a +.2 to .5 (#31 to #30, 6+).
Co-owned KKSE-AM and Bonneville’s KEPN-AM “ESPN Denver 1600 AM” each post a .1 (6+) the third sweep in succession, as both advance from #33 to #32.

Public Radio News/Talk

Notwithstanding it sputters by three-tenths in July/August (5.8 – 5.6 – 5.5, 6+), Colorado Public Radio’s KCFR progresses from third to second. KCFR was +2.6 in March/April (5.2 – 6.3 – 7.8, 6+) but then -2.1 in May (7.8 – 5.7, 6+).
Trending .8 – .6 – .6 – .8 (6+), Community Radio for Northern Colorado’s KUNC continues at #28.

BALTIMORE

News/Talk

By gaining three-tenths to 4.4 (ninth to seventh, 6+), Hearst Television-owned WBAL “News Radio – Expect More” interrupts three slips in a row that accounted for an overall -1.9 (6.0 – 4.9 – 4.4 – 4.1, 6+). The just-concluded negative streak directly followed ten successive bumps for a collective +4.2 (1.8 – 2.2 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.9 – 3.2 – 3.4 – 3.9 – 4.4 – 5.1 – 6.0, 6+).
Stacking a half-share increase onto July’s +.6, independent news/talk WCBM “680 Stimulating Talk – Breaking News” catches WBAL at #7 (3.3 – 3.9 – 4.4, tenth to seventh, 6+). WCBM was +1.8 via four straight increases (2.3 – 3.3 – 3.4 – 3.7 – 4.1, 6+), but then -.8 in May/June (4.1 – 4.0 – 3.3, 6+).
The April 2020 through August 2020 topline for Cumulus Media Washington, DC’s WMAL is: .4 – .6 – .4 – .4 – .6 (#28 to #27, 6+).

Sports Talk

Having plummeted by -1.0 in June, Entercom sports talk WJZ-FM “105.7 The Fan” (Orioles) roars back with a +1.4 in July/August (2.5 – 2.8 – 3.9, #12 to #11, 6+). May’s increase of four-tenths halted three straight declines that led to an overall -2.0 (5.1 – 3.9 – 3.6 – 3.1, 6+).
Following three straight .1 showings (6+), co-owned WJZ-AM disappears from print.

News

Through five consecutive increases, business news sibling WDCH nearly quadrupled (+1.3) its 6+ AQH share (.5 – .6 – .9 – 1.1 – 1.7 – 1.8, 6+); however, “Bloomberg1 & 105.7” is an overall -.8 in three straight drops (1.8 – 1.5 – 1.2 – 1.0, flat at #18, 6+).
Doubling July’s .5 to 1.0 (6+), M-10 Broadcasting-owned/Black Information Network affiliate WQLL “BIN 1370” cracks the top twenty (#18).

Public Radio News/Talk

This time last month, Your Public Radio’s WYPR picked up two-tenths (4.3 – 4.5, 6+), but “88.1 Your NPR News Station” surrenders twice as much (4.1, -.4, seventh to ninth, 6+).
Departing the top twenty (#20 to #21), American University-owned WAMU has an April 2020 through August 2020 topline of: .8 – .7 – .7 – 1.0 – .9 (6+).

ST. LOUIS

News/Talk

A combined +.7 in July/August (4.7 – 5.0 – 5.4, 6+), Entercom’s KMOX “The Voice of St. Louis” (Cardinals) jumps from ninth to fifth. KMOX was -2.2 in May/June (6.9 – 5.9 – 4.7, 6+), directly after a +1.8 in March/April (5.1 – 5.4 – 6.9, 6+).
Co-owned KFTK adds seven-tenths to July’s +.4 (4.1 – 4.5 – 5.2, 6+) and zooms from #12 to #7. Following four straight spikes that yielded a +3.8 (2.7 – 4.0 – 4.6 – 5.5 – 6.5, 6+), “FM News Talk 97.1” was -2.4 in May/June (6.5 – 4.9 – 4.1, 6+).

Sports Talk

Substituting July’s half-share loss with August’s half-share increase (2.4 – 1.9 – 2.4, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting’s WXOS advances from #18 to #16. By picking up two-tenths in June, “101 Sports” suspended four straight decreases that accounted for a roughly 52% (-2.4) evaporation of its 6+ AQH share (4.6 – 4.3 – 3.4 – 2.5 – 2.2, 6+).

News

Unlisted in August is iHeartMedia-owned Black Information Network affiliate KATZ-HD2

Public Radio News/Talk

After a July gain of three-tenths (2.0 – 2.3, 6+), University of Missouri-owned KWMU forfeits two-tenths to 2.1 (#16 to #17, 6+).

August 2020 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round One

TALKERS | September 1, 2020

August 2020 PPM Data – Information for the August 2020 ratings period has been released for New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Long Island (Nassau-Suffolk), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union. Nielsen Audio’s August 2020 survey period covered July 16 – August 12.

Managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” for spoken-word formats from these 12 PPM-markets.

NEW YORK CITY

News/Talk

An overall -1.2 in three straight drops (3.0 – 2.4 – 1.9 – 1.8, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WOR halts the slide with a +.1 to 1.9 (6+). Even so, “710 The Voice of New York” backslides from #19 to #20. The just-concluded negative streak immediately followed April’s +1.1 to 3.0 (6+).

For the third sweep in a row, Red Apple Media-owned WABC logs a 1.4 (1.6 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.4 , #21 to #22, 6+).

After gaining one-tenth in back-to-back reports (.8 – .9 – 1.0, 6+), Townsquare Media’s WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” falters by one-tenth in consecutive sweeps (1.0 – .9 – .8, #23 to #25, 6+).

Sports Talk

With an uptick of six-tenths (1.7 – 2.3, 6+), Entercom-owned/Yankees flagship WFAN advances from #20 to #17 and has its best 6+-stat since February (2.3, as well). WFAN improved by four-tenths in May/June (1.4 – 1.7 – 1.8, 6+), before forfeiting one-tenth in July. Its internet stream, which logged a .3 (6+) the past three reports, is up one-tenth to .4 (#33 to #2, 6+).

In three straight sweeps without an increase, WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” is down seven-tenths (1.6 – 1.0 – .9 – .9, flat at #24, 6+). Entering the May sweep, WEPN-FM dropped nine-tenths in three consecutive downturns (2.1 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.2, (1.5 – 1.2, 6+).

News

By notching a half-share gain to 4.3 (flat at #7, 6+), Entercom-owned WINS halts three consecutive declines that resulted in a -1.9 (5.7 – 4.9 – 4.2 – 3.8, 6+). Just prior, three successive WINS increases yielded a +2.2 (3.5 – 3.6 – 4.7 – 5.7, 6+).

Recapturing half the six-tenths it lost in July (2.8 – 3.1, +.3, 6+), co-owned/New York Mets key station WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” pushes up from #14 to #11.

Bloomberg Communications business news WBBR “Bloomberg 1130 AM” is up one-tenth to .3 (#39 to #36, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Three consecutive drops by WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM led to a -2.3 (5.1 – 3.3 – 2.9 – 2.8, 6+). Not only does WNYC-FM curtail the slide with an August +.5 to 3.3 (6+), it cracks the top ten (#14 to #8).

In four straight down or flat trends, co-owned WNYC-AM has dropped roughly half (-.6) its 6+ AQH share (1.1 – .7 – .7 .6 – .5, #27 to #29, 6+).

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk

After gaining three-tenths in July (4.4 – 4.7, 6+), KFI surrenders eight-tenths to 3.9 (second to fifth, 6+). “AM 640” was a combined -1.1 in May/June (5.5 – 4.6 – 4.4, 6+). The iHeartMedia facility more than doubled (+2.9) its 6+ AQH share from “Holiday” 2019 through April 2020; crossed the five-share threshold; and had an April-only stay at #1 (2.6 – 3.3 – 3.8 – 4.2 – 5.5, 6+). April 2020 marked the first time KFI reached #1 since March 2011 (4.9, 6+).

Although off six-tenths in four straight down or flat reports (1.8 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.4 – 1.2, 6+), Salem Media Group news/talk KRLA “AM 870 The Answer” repeats at #28.

Tying KRLA is Cumulus Media’s KABC “790 News-Talk-Evolved” (1.2, +.2, #32 to #28, 6+). Its August gain of two-tenths ends three sweeps in succession that accounted for a loss of four-tenths (1.4 – 1.1 – 1.0 – 1.0, 6+). KABC had almost tripled (+.9) its 6+ AQH share as a result of four consecutive improvements (.5 – .7 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.4, 6+).

The March 2020 through August 2020 topline for iHeartMedia-owned KEIB “AM 1150 The Patriot” is: .8 – 1.1 – 1.0 – .8 – .9 – .9 (#35 to #36, 6+).

Sports Talk

More than doubling (+.7) its 6+ AQH share in four-straight up or flat moves (.5 – .5 – .6 – .6 – 1.2, 6+), the flagship of the Los Angeles Dodgers, iHeartMedia’s KLAC “AM 570 LA Sports,” catapults from #38 to #28.

Meanwhile, Disney-owned KSPN “710 ESPN” (Angels) is without an increase the seventh time in a row for a net decrease of seven-tenths (1.1 – .9 – .8 – .4 – .4 – .4 – .4 – .4, flat at #41, 6+).

News

Despite being down a combined eight-tenths in July/August (3.9 – 3.2 – 3.1, 6+), Entercom’s KNX “1070 News Radio” returns to the top ten (#12 to #10). KNX was +1.0 in June; down nine-tenths in April/May (3.8 – 3.4 – 2.9, 6+); and up eight-tenths in March.

Public Radio News/Talk

Dropping from #23 to #25, Pasadena City College news/talk KPCC “The Voice of Southern California” has a May 2020 through August 2020 topline of: 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 1.6 (6+).

CHICAGO

News/Talk

Three slips in a row by Nexstar Media Group-owned WGN resulted in a -2.3 (5.6 – 5.2 – 4.5 – 3.3, 6+), but “Radio 720” applies the brakes with a +.3 to 3.6 (unchanged at #9, 6+). The Chicago White Sox key station previously posted four straight increases that netted a +2.6 (3.0 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.5 – 5.6, 6+).

Slipping from #21 to #22, Cumulus Media-owned WLS-AM “890 AM” is down one-half share in four straight reports without an increase (2.4 – 2.1 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 1.9, 6+).

Newsweb Corp’s Willow Springs, Illinois-licensed WCPT “Progressive Talk 820 AM” debuts in print with a .3 (#34, 6+).

In the Alpha Media cluster, suburban Joliet’s WJOL “1340 We’ve Got ‘Em Talking” is off one-tenth (.2 – .1, #37 to #40, 6+), while co-owned/Kenosha, Wisconsin-licensed WLIP “AM 1050” adds one-tenth (.0 – .1, 6+) and ties WJOL at #40.

Sports Talk

As a result of seven successive reports without an increase, Entercom sports talk WSCR “670 The Score” was an overall -2.0 (3.5 – 3.3 – 2.7 – 2.5 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 1.5 – 1.5, 6+), but the Cubs’ flagship erases half the deficit with a +1.0 to 2.5 (6+) and reenters the top twenty (#23 to #17).

Flat at 1.0 (6+), Disney/ESPN-owned WMVP “ESPN Chicago 1000” nonetheless advances from #27 to #26. Its July gain of two-tenths ended eight consecutive down or flat sweeps that resulted in a -1.1 (1.9 – 1.6 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.2 – .8, 6+).

News

On top the seventh time in a row, Entercom-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS-FM adds three-tenths to July’s +.1 (6.9 – 7.0 – 7.3, 6+). Immediately prior to being -1.5 in May/June (8.4 – 7.0 – 6.9, 6+), “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” was a collective +3.5 through four straight gains (4.9 – 5.4 – 5.8 – 7.7 – 8.4, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Even though WBEZ improves by two-tenths to 3.4 (6+), thus suspending three straight down reports that yielded a -2.2 (5.4 – 4.7 – 3.8 – 3.2, 6+), the Chicago Public Media outlet departs the top ten (#10 to #11).

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk

After notching a month-to-month fluctuation of one-tenth the past three reports (1.8 – 1.9 – 1.8 – 1.7, 6+), Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “560 – The Bay Area’s Exclusive Hot Talk” repeats July’s 1.7 (#20 to #21, 6+).

Following five straight sweeps without an increase accounting for an approximately 44% loss (-.8) of its 6+ AQH share (1.8 – 1.8 – 1.5 – 1.4 – 1.2 – 1.0, 6+) co-owned KGO pulls the plug with a +.2 to 1.2 (#27 to #25, 6+).

Sports Talk

After faltering by four-tenths in June (2.3 – 1.9, 6+), Cumulus Media-owned KNBR-AM “The Sports Leader” answers with a July/August +1.7 (1.9 – 2.5 – 3.6, 6+), as the key station of the San Francisco Giants vaults from #15 to #6.

In four straight downturns, Entercom’s KGMZ lost nine-tenths (1.7 – 1.4 – 1.0 – .9 – .8, 6+), but ended the slide this time last month with a +.1 to .9 (6+). In August, “95.7 The Game” repeats July’s AQH share and market rank (.9, #28, 6+); its internet stream is flat at .1 (#34 to #35, 6+).

Unlisted in June and July, Cumulus Media-owned KTCT resurfaces with a .1 (#35, 6+).

News

In addition to being a combined -1.1 in July/August (8.9 – 8.3 – 7.8, 6+), Entercom’s KCBS-AM segues from first (where it was in June and July) to second. Before faltering by -1.4 in May, KCBS-AM had been on top three successive sweeps and was an overall +2.2 in four consecutive up or flat moves (7.7 – 8.4 – 8.7 – 9.9 – 9.9, 6+).

Up two-tenths (.1 – .3, 6+), iHeartMedia business news/new Oakland A’s flagship KNEW checks in at #30.

Slightly more than two weeks into the July ratings period (6/30), co-owned KKSF was one of 15 iHeartMedia stations to become inaugural affiliates of the Black Information Network. KKSF is flat at .1 (#34 to #35, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Via three drops in succession, KQED was -2.5 (9.9 – 8.7 – 7.8 – 7.4, 6+). In addition to ending the slide with a +.4 to 7.8 (6+), the California Public Broadcasting outlet progresses from second to first. Recent (6+) fluctuations for KQED include: -1.2 (September/October); +1.6 (November/December); -1.2 (“Holiday” 2019); +1.2 (January 2020); -.9 (February); +1.5 (March); +1.8 (April); -1.2 (May); and -.9 (June).

After being without an increase the past three reports for a net loss of four-tenths (.9 – .7 – .5 – .5, 6+), San Francisco Unified School District’s KALW “91.7 Local Public Radio” picks up one-tenth to .6 (unchanged at #29, 6+).

DALLAS

News/Talk

A collective -1.4 through four consecutive declines (4.1 – 3.2 – 3.0 – 2.9 – 2.7, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WBAP “News Talk 820” falls from #15 to #17.

Cluster-mate KLIF-AM “570 News & Information” is trending .6 – .4 – .4 – .6 – .5 – .5 (March 2020 through August 2020, 6+) and remains at #35.

For the fourth time in the last five reports, Salem Media Group-owned KSKY “660 AM The Answer” logs a .4 (.4 – .4 – .4 – .5 – .4, #35 to #36, 6+).

The May 2020 through August 2020 trending for iHeartMedia’s KFXR is: .1 – .0 – .1 – .0 (6+); “Talk Radio 1190 AM” finished at #38 in July.

Sports Talk

Having lost one-tenth in consecutive reports (1.7 – 1.6 – 15, 6+), Entercom sports talk/Texas Rangers flagship KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” has now picked up two-tenths in back-to-back sweeps (1.5 – 1.7 – 1.9, #21 to #20, 6+). Its internet stream, which posted a .3 (6+) the past three months, slips to .2 (#37 to #38, 6+).

Up one-tenth (1.3 – 1.4, 6+), Cumulus Media’s KTCK “The Ticket – All Sports All The Time” jumps from #26 to #23. Despite gaining two-tenths (.6 – .8, 6+), its internet stream backslides from #33 to #34.

Having recorded a .7 (6+) three times in the last five sweeps (.7 – .6 – .8 – .7 – .7, 6+), Disney/ESPN’s KESN “103.3 ESPN Dallas” improves by two-tenths to .9 (#31 to #30, 6+).

News

Up three-tenths in June/July (1.2 – 1.3 – 1.5, 6+), after being a combined -.6 in April/May (1.8 – 1.4 – 1.2, 6+), Entercom-owned KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” falters by two-tenths in August to 1.3 (#24 to #26, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

In three straight drops, KERA lost nine-tenths (3.4 – 2.8 – 2.6 – 2.5, 6+), but the North Texas Public Broadcasting outlet is up four-tenths in July/August (2.5 – 2.8 – 2.9, #16 to #14, 6+).

HOUSTON

News/Talk

After regaining the three-tenths it lost in May (6.3 – 6.0 – 6.3, April – May – June, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KTRH “News Radio 740” is a combined -1.0 in July/August (6.3 – 5.6 – 5.3, 6+) yet improves from sixth to fifth. KTRH was +1.7 in April.

For the fourth time in a row, co-owned KPRC “AM 950 – Houston’s More Stimulating Talk Radio” has a fluctuation of one-tenth (.2 – .3 – .4 – .3 – .4, flat at #27, 6+).

Sports Talk

Repeating July’s AQH share and market rank is Entercom’s KILT-AM “Sports Radio 610” (.9, #23, 6+).

Stuck on .5 (6+) in June and July, iHeartMedia-owned/Houston Astros flagship KBME “Sports Talk 790” posts a +.2 to .7 (flat at #26, 6+).

Following nine straight sweeps without an increase for a net loss of four-tenths (.7 -.5 – .4 – .4 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .3, 6+), Gow Communications’ KFNC “ESPN5” picks up one-tenth to .4 (6+) and continues at #27.

Public Radio News/Talk

In five consecutive decreases, KUHF was an overall -1.1 (3.7 – 3.4 – 3.1 – 2.9 – 2.8 – 2.6, 6+), but the University of Houston outlet halts the skid with a +.1 to 2.7 (#18 to #17, 6+).

The May 2020 through August 2020 topline for Pacifica Foundation’s KPFT is: .0 – .0 – .1 – .0 (6+); KPFT ranked #31 in July.

ATLANTA

News/Talk

Although down one-half share (10.6 – 10.1, 6+), Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB-FM “Atlanta’s News & Talk” sets the pace the 14^th straight sweep. April’s 9 marked the first time in the PPM-era that any Atlanta station reached the 13-share level (6+).

Off one-tenth (.9 – .8, 6+), Salem Media Group’s WGKA “AM 920 The Answer” slips from #26 to #24.

By picking up one-tenth to .4 (flat at #30, 6+), Entercom’s WAOK “1380 The Voice of the Community” snaps at three a consecutive string of down or flat reports in which it lost half (-.3) its 6+ AQH share (.6 – .4 – .4 – .3, 6+).

Sports Talk

After being an overall -1.5 in six straight reports without an increase (4.6 – 3.9 – 3.4 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.1, 6+), Entercom sports talk WZGC not only curtails the slide with a +.4 to 3.5 (6+), “92.9 The Game” reenters the top ten (#11 to #10).

Down two-tenths in back-to-back reports (1.4 – 1.2 – 1.0, 6+), Dickey Broadcasting-owned/Atlanta Braves flagship WCNN “680 The Fan” roars back with a +1.0 to 2.0 (6+) and zooms from #25 to #18.

News

One of 15 iHeartMedia-owned stations to become the first affiliates of the Black Information Network, WBIN (formerly WGST “Talk Radio 640”) drops from .2 to .1 (#32 to #34, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

After forfeiting two-tenths in July, City of Atlanta Board of Education’s WABE regains that loss (2.4 – 2.2 – 2.4, 6+) and progresses from #17 to #15.

Unlisted in June and July, similarly-formatted WABE-HD3 surfaces with a .1 (#34, 6+).

This is the fourth time in the last six reports that Georgia State University’s WRAS logs a .5 (.7 – .5 – .5 – .5 – .6 – .5, #28 to #29, 6+).

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk

Down three-tenths (1.7 – 1.4, 6+), Entercom-owned WPHT “Talk Radio 1210” departs the top twenty (#19 to #21).

Catching WPHT is Townsquare Media’s WKXW “New Jersey 101.5,” which is without a loss the fourth time in a row for a net gain of six-tenths (.8 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.4, #23 to #21, 6+).

Sports Talk

A combined -1.6 in June/July (5.9 – 4.7 – 4.3, 6+), Entercom-owned/Philadelphia Phillies flagship WIP “Sports Radio 94.1” bounces back with a +.6 to 4.9 (tenth to sixth).

The alternating down/up (March 2020 through August 2020) pattern for Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” includes August’s loss of three-tenths: 2.1 – 1.4 – 1.6 – 1.4 – 1.6 – 1.3 (#21 to #23, 6+).

News

Recapturing the four-tenths it squandered this time last month (6.1 – 5.7 – 6.1, 6+), Entercom-owned KYW “News Radio 1060” climbs from fifth to fourth. KYW rebounded from May’s -1.5 with a June increase of three-tenths (5.8 – 6.1, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

In four consecutive reports without an increase, WHYY was -1.0 (5.4 – 4.5 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.4, 6+), but it curtails the skid with a +.4 to 4.8 (ninth to seventh, 6+).

LONG ISLAND (NASSAU-SUFFOLK)

News/Talk

Following three slumps in succession that accounted for a -2.8 (6.7 – 5.7 – 4.4 – 3.9, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WOR picks up three-tenths to 4.2 (seventh to fifth, 6+). April’s +2.9 rocketed “710 The Voice of New York” from eighth to first.

This is the sixth time in a row Red Apple Media news/talk WABC is without a loss for a net increase of three-tenths (1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.4, flat at #24, 6+).

Sports Talk

An increase of eight-tenths (3.1 – 3.9, 6+) returns Entercom-owned/Yankees key station WFAN back to the top ten (#12 to #7). Its internet stream, however, is off two-tenths (1.1 – .9, #25 to #26, 6+).

WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” is unlisted in Long Island the eighth month in a row. WEPN was -.5 in December/“Holiday” 2019 (2.7 – 2.5 – 2.2, #15, 6+).

News

As a result of three straight drops, Entercom’s WINS was -1.4 (5.3 – 4.2 – 4.1 – 3.9, 6+), but WINS responds with a +.4 to 4.3 (seventh to fourth, 6+). The negative streak directly followed a combined +1.8 in March/April (3.5 – 5.2 – 5.3, 6+).

Stuck on 2.5 (6+) in May and June, after being off nine-tenths in May, co-owned/New York Mets flagship WCBS-AM is up four-tenths in July/August (2.5 – 2.6 – 2.9, #14 to #13, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Off one-half share in four down or flat moves in a row (1.6 – 1.4 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1, 6+), WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM erases that entire shortfall with an August gain of six-tenths to 1.7 (#25 to #22, 6+).

Unchanged at #33, co-owned WNYC-AM is trending: .1 – .1 – .2 – .2 (May 2020 through August 2020, 6+).

After logging a .1 (6+) the past three sweeps, Sacred Heart University’s WSUF gains one-tenth to .2 (6+) and ties WNYC-AM (#36 to #33).

RIVERSIDE-SAN BERNARDINO-ONTARIO

News/Talk

This is the 11^th time in succession that iHeartMedia news talk KKDD is unlisted; “1290 News Talk IE” logged a .1 (6+) last August, September, and October.

Sports Talk

Co-owned KPWK “Fox Sports Radio 1350 AM,” which wasn’t in print in April or May, posts a .1 (6+) the third time in a row (flat at #17, 6+).

Los Angeles Angels-owned (LAA 1, LLC) KLAA “Angels Radio AM 830” is unlisted the 33^rd sweep in succession.

News

KFOO is one of 15 iHeartMedia-owned stations to become Black Information Network’s first affiliates. KFOO recorded a .3 (6+) in June, but hasn’t appeared in the July or August reports.

Public Radio News/Talk

Locked on .4 (6+) in May and June, Pasadena City College-owned KPCC “The Voice of Southern California” gained two-tenths to .6 this time last month, but is off one-tenth to .5 (#13 to #14, 6+).

Albeit flat, San Bernardino Community College’s KVCR catches KPCC (.5, #15 to #14, 6+).

SAN JOSE

News/Talk

Owing to four successive slips, Cumulus Media’s KGO was an overall -1.3 (2.9 – 2.3 – 1.9 – 1.6 – 1.6, 6+); however, an August increase of two-tenths to 1.8 (6+) is sufficient for KGO to reenter the top twenty (#24 to #17).

In three straight modest gains, co-owned KSFO netted four-tenths (.8 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.2, 6+), but “560 – The Bay Area’s Exclusive Hot Talk” drops one-tenth to 1.1 (#26 to #25, 6+).

Sports Talk

Tacking on a +1.3 to July’s +.5 (1.9 – 2.4 – 3.7, 6+), cluster-mate/San Francisco Giants flagship KNBR “The Sports Leader” leaps into the top ten (#13 to #9). KNBR spiraled by -1.1 in June.

By adding three-tenths this time last month, Entercom’s KGMZ found itself in a five-way scrum at #17. Now, “95.7 The Game” surrenders that three-tenths (1.6 – 1.9 – 1.6, 6+) and is in a five-way logjam at #19.

News

Through five drops in a row, Entercom-owned KCBS-AM is a collective -2.8 (6.9 – 6.4 – 5.8 – 5.6 – 4.7 – 4.1, fifth to seventh, 6+). This directly follows three straight gains that yielded a +2.5 (4.4 – 5.0 – 5.7 – 6.9, 6+). KCBS-AM has been -.5 (October); +.7 (November); -.8 (December); -.7 (“Holiday” 2019); +1.2 (March); -.9 (July); and -.6 (August).

Up two-tenths (.1 – .3, 6+), iHeartMedia business news/Oakland A’s flagship KNEW-AM progresses from #30 to #29.

KKSF was one of 15 iHeartMedia stations to become inaugural affiliates of the Black Information Network. Finishing at #30 in July, KKSF’s May 2020 through August 2020 topline is: .2 – .0 – .1 – .0 (6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Three straight downturns by KQED led to a -2.7 (9.3 – 8.4 – 7.7 – 6.6, 6+), but the Northern California Public Broadcasting facility posts a gain of three-tenths to 6.9 (steady at #2, 6+). KQED was a combined +2.8 in March/April (6.5 – 7.4 – 9.3, 6+) and had a November-only stay at #1.

Down a collective seven-tenths via three consecutive slips (1.7 – 1.4 – 1.1 – 1.0, 6+), San Francisco Unified School District news/talk KALW halts the slide with a +.1 to 1.1 (#27 to #25, 6+).

MIDDLESEX-SOMERSET-UNION

News/Talk

A combined -1.1 in June/July (6.8 – 6.5 – 5.7, 6+), Townsquare Media’s WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” gains one-tenth to 5.8 (6+) and continues in third-place. Just prior, three straight increases delivered WKXW a collective +1.6 (5.2 – 6.0 – 6.7 – 6.8, 6+).

In an alternating up/down sequence that includes August’s loss of one-tenth (1.8 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.7, April 2020 through August 2020, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WOR “710 The Voice of New York” repeats at #20.

Four consecutive up or flat trends garnered WABC four-tenths (.5 – .8 – .9 – .9 – .9, 6+), but the Red Apple Media station is off two-tenths to .7 (#23 to #26, 6+).

Beasley Media Group’s WCTC “Talk Radio 1450 The Voice of Central Jersey,” which notched a July .1 (#30, 6+), disappears from print.

Sports Talk

Picking up one-tenth in back-to-back sweeps (2.3 – 2.4 – 2.5, 6+), Entercom-owned/Yankees key station repeats at #15. Its July increase interrupted three consecutive decreases that resulted in a -1.9 (4.2 – 2.9 – 2.6 – 2.3, 6+). Finishing at #30 in July with a .1 (6+), its internet stream vanishes from print in August.

Unlisted in Middlesex five months in a row, WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” reappeared in June with a 1.2 (6+). It dropped three-tenths to .9 (6+) in July, but picks up one-tenth in August (1.0, #22 to #24, 6+).

News

Off one-half share in May/June (2.4 – 2.1 – 1.9, 6+), Entercom-owned/New York Mets flagship WCBS-AM is up a combined half-share in July/August (1.9 – 2.0 – 2.4, #17 to #16, 6+).

Through three consecutive drops, co-owned WINS was -1.4 (2.2 – 1.4 – .9 – .8, 6+), but WINS wipes away nearly half that shortfall with a +.6 to 1.4 (#25 to #21, 6+).

Public Radio News/Talk

Down of flat the past three sweeps for a net loss of -1.1 (3.1 – 2.3 – 2.0 – 2.0, 6+), WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM improves by four-tenths to 2.4 (#17 to #16, 6+).

Co-owned WNYC-AM is unlisted the third time in a row, after notching a .2 (6+) in May.

July 2020 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round Four

TALKERS | August 7, 2020

July 2020 PPM Data – Information for the July 2020 ratings period has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen Audio’s July 2020 survey period covered June 18 – July 15. Managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” from these 12 PPM-markets.

Austin

Spoken-Word Formats – Stuck on 5.5 (6+) in May and June, Waterloo Media Group-owned KLBJ-AM “News Radio 590” picks up two-tenths to 5.7 (6+) and continues in third-place. Prior to forfeiting nine-tenths in May, KLBJ-AM posted four consecutive gains for a +2.8 (3.6 – 4.5 – 4.6 – 4.8 – 6.4, 6+). Flat at #26, Entercom’s KJCE “Talk Radio 1370” has a February 2020 through July 2020 topline of: .3 – .3 – .3 – .2 – .3 – .2 (6+).

Off a combined three-tenths in June/July (1.3 – 1.2 – 1.0, 6+), Genuine Austin Radio sports talk KTXX “The Horn” repeats at #22. The alternating March through July up/down sequence for iHeartMedia-owned/similarly-formatted KVET-AM “1300 AM The Zone” is 5 – .6 – .4 – .5 – .4 (unchanged at #25, 6+).

On top five survey periods in succession before segueing to the runner-up slot in June (where it remains in July), University of Texas at Austin-owned news/talk KUT is an overall -3.0 in four straight declines (10.3 – 9.8 – 8.5 – 7.8 – 7.3, 6+). Three successive increases yielded a +2.9, enabling KUT to hit double-digits for the first time in its PPM-history (7.4 – 8.9 – 9.5 – 10.3, 6+). Recent (6+) fluctuations include: -1.6 (June 2019); +.9 (July); +1.2 (August); +2.0 (October); -1.9 (“Holiday” 2019); +1.5 (January 2020); +.8 (March); -1.3 (May); and -.7 (June 2020).

Austin Music Formats – Not only is Waterloo Media Group adult hits KBPA a collective +1.1 via three straight bumps (8.1 – 8.4 – 8.5 – 9.2, 6+), “103.5 Bob-FM” repeats at #1 with its best 6+-stat since July 2019 (9.2, as well). Also notching a July 2020 increase of seven-tenths is Entercom adult contemporary KKMJ (5.7, fourth to third). “Majic 95.5 Better Music For A Better Workday” had been -1.4 as a result of three consecutive down or flat moves (6.4 – 5.2 – 5.0 – 5.0, 6+). In an alternating January 2020 through July 2020 down/up pattern that includes July’s increase of three-tenths, Waterloo Media Group’s KROX “101-X Alternative Austin” is: 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.8 – 3.2 – 3.3 – 2.7 – 3.0 (#14 to #12, 6+). Replicating June’s decline of six-tenths (5.5 – 4.9 – 4.3, 6+), iHeartMedia’s country-formatted KVET-FM remains in fifth-place. “The Austin Texas Original” was up nine-tenths in April/May (4.6 – 4.7 – 5.5, 6+) and had its best 6+-showing since last October (5.5, as well). Elsewhere in the country format, KVET-FM sibling KASE, which was off six-tenths in May/June (3.6 – 3.6 – 3.0, 6+), gains four-tenths to 3.4 (6+) and reenters the top ten (#12 to #10). In the six sweeps between “Holiday” 2019 and May 2020, “Austin’s #1 For New Country” logged a 3.6 (6+) four times (3.6 – 3.7 – 3.6 – 3.4 – 3.6 – 3.6, 6+). Genuine Austin Radio-owned KOKE-FM “Austin’s Country Alternative” has lost more than half (-1.2) its 6+ AQH share in three drops in succession (2.2 – 1.7 – 1.2 – 1.0, flat at #22, 6+). KOKE-FM was a combined +1.0 in March/April (1.2 – 1.3 – 2.2, 6+). Posting a gain of one-tenth the third time in a row (1.0 – 1.1 – 1.2 – 1.3, 6+), Township Media triple A KTSN “Sun Radio – The Best Music Under The Sun” cracks the top twenty (#19). Meanwhile, The University of Texas at Austin-owned/similarly-formatted KUTX “The Austin Music Experience” is off one-half share in June/July and continues at #16 (2.4 – 2.0 – 1.9, 6+). Two Waterloo Media Group HD-2 channels regress by one-half share: Spanish contemporary KLZT-HD2 (1.2, #17 to #21, 6+) and triple A KGSR-HD2 (1.0, #20 to #22, 6+). KLZT-HD2 gained three tenths in three straight up or flat trends (1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.7, 6+), while KGSR-HD2 garnered four-tenths in May/June (1.1 – 1.1 – 1.5, 6+).

Raleigh

Spoken-Word Formats – By notching a July spike of six-tenths to 6.8 (sixth to third, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WTKK “106.1 Stay Connected” snaps at four its consecutive string of decreases that resulted in an overall -1.4 (7.6 – 6.9 – 6.8 – 6.6 – 6.2, 6+). A collective -1.2 in three straight drops (2.7 – 2.2 – 1.8 – 1.5, 6+), Curtis Media Group’s WPTF “News Radio 680” is flat at #16.

Four-tenths behind WPTF and unchanged at #17 is Capitol Broadcasting sports talk WCMC “99.9 The Fan,” which logs a 1.1 (6+) the third time in the last four sweeps (1.1 – 1.2 – 1.1 – 1.1, 6+).

Progressing from fourth to second, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill news/talk WUNC “91.5 North Carolina Public Radio” notches its third straight gain for a collective +1.0 (6.1 – 6.7 – 6.8 – 7.1, 6+).

Raleigh Music Formats – Tacking on a hefty +1.2 to June’s increase of two-tenths (4.9 – 5.1 – 6.3, 6+), Curtis Media Group adult hits WBBB “96.1 BBB Your Life/Your Music” jumps from eighth to fourth with its best 6+-stat since last October (6.3, as well). In eight straight sweeps without an increase, CHR cluster-mate WPLW-FM lost roughly 48% (-2.5) of its 6+ AQH share (5.2 – 5.1 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.3 – 3.4 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 2.7, 6+). In July though, “Pulse FM” applies the brakes with a +.8 to 3.5 (#14 to #11, 6+). Following five consecutive gains that netted a +2.7 (7.2 – 8.7 – 8.9 – 9.2 – 9.7 – 9.9, 6+), Radio One urban AC WFXC is -1.1 in June/July (9.9 – 8.9 – 8.8, 6+). Nonetheless, “Foxy – Today’s R&B and Classic Soul” is #1 the seventh time in a row. On top four successive sweeps, WFXC shifted to the runner-up slot in “Holiday” 2019. January 2019’s +1.1 took “Foxy” to 11.0, its highest 6+-stat in the PPM-era. Up eight-tenths in May/June (6.1 – 6.7 – 6.9, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WRDU “100.7 Raleigh’s Classic Rock” erodes by -1.1 to 5.8 (third to seventh, 6+). A collective +2.0 via three positive spikes in a row (5.3 – 6.1 – 6.2 – 7.3, 6+), Radio One gospel WNNL “The Light 103.9” forfeits exactly half that windfall (6.3, -1.0, second to fourth, 6+). In June, WNNL reached the seven-share level (7.3, 6+) for the first time since “Holiday” 2019 (7.0, 6+). After more than doubling (+2.4) its 6+ AQH share in seven consecutive up or flat moves (2.1 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 4.5, 6+), Educational Information Corporation’s WCPE “The Classical Station” relinquishes one-third of that increase (3.7, -.8, 6+) and exits the top ten (#10 to #11). Faltering by seven-tenths are Capitol Broadcasting adult contemporary WRAL “Mix 101.5 – The Variety That Makes You Feel Good” (5.8, fifth to seventh, 6+) and Radio One urban contemporary WQOK “K-97.5” (4.3, flat at #9, 6+). A combined -2.7 in March/April (7.5 – 6.6 – 4.8, 6+), “Mix” followed with a +1.7 in May/June (4.8 – 5.5 – 6.5, 6+). “Mix” was +2.2 (“Holiday” 2019) and -1.7 (January). Off nine-tenths in April/May, “K-97.5” picked up one-half share in June.

Indianapolis

Spoken-Word Formats – Stabilizing after May/June’s -2.9 (10.3 – 8.9 – 7.4, 6+), Emmis news/talk WIBC “Indy’s Mobile News 93.1” picks up one-tenth and one ranker (7.4 – to 7.5, fifth to fourth, 6+). WIBC previously logged four straight increases for a +4.9 (5.4 – 7.6 – 8.0 – 8.8 – 10.3, 6+).

Albeit off one-half share in June/July (2.5 – 2.2 – 2.0, 6+), sports talk cluster-mate WFNI “The Fan – Indy’s Sports Center” progresses from #16 to #15. After gaining two-tenths in back-to-back reports (1.0 – 1.2 – 1.4, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WNDE “Indy’s Sports Station” has its 6+ AQH share sliced by 50% (-.7) in June/July (1.4 – 1.1 – .7, #18 to #19, 6+).

Three straight gains by Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting news/talk WFYI yielded a +1.6 (3.7 – 4.6 – 4.8 – 5.3 , 6+); however, in four straight drops, it is -1.7 (5.3 – 4.0 – 3.9 – 3.7 – 3.6, tenth to ninth, 6+).

Indianapolis Music Formats – Tied for boasting the largest (6+) June 2020 – July 2020 increase (+1.9) by any station in these 12 PPM-markets is Emmis adult contemporary WYXB “B-105.7” (8.8 – 10.7, 6+). In addition to roaring back from June’s loss of eight-tenths WYXB is #1 the third time in a row. Its five most recent fluctuations are: +.6 (March); -1.2 (April); +1.3 (May); -.8 (June); and +1.9 (July). “B-105.7” had been on top five reports in succession prior to shifting to fourth in April. It was an overall +10.8 through three consecutive increases (7.4 – 8.8 – 10.2 – 18.2, 6+), but was then -9.3 in January/February (18.2 – 9.1 – 8.9, 6+). WYXB’s 18.2 (“Holiday” 2019) represents the strongest 6+-performance by any Indianapolis station in the PPM-era. Gaining eight-tenths each are Radio One urban AC WTLC-FM (5.9, eighth to seventh, 6+) and Cumulus Media hot AC WNTR “107.9 The Mix” (#15 to #10). WTLC-FM was down nine-tenths in May/June (6.0 – 5.9 – 5.1, 6+) and had its lowest 6+-share since last November (5.1, as well). Having had its 6+-stat carved by 75% (-2.1) in April/May (2.8 – 2.0 – .7, 6+), “The Mix” more than quadruples (+2.5) its 6+ AQH share in June/July (.7 – 2.4 – 3.2, 6+). Plummeting by a whopping -1.1 are iHeartMedia-owned WFBQ “Q-95 Indy’s Classic Rock” (third to fifth) and Emmis’ WLHK “Country 97.1 Hank FM” (fourth to sixth). WFBQ erodes by -3.2 in three consecutive dips (10.1 – 8.2 – 8.0 – 6.9, 6+) and has its lowest 6+-stat (6.9) since “Holiday” 2019’s 6.6. As a result of three drops in succession, “Hank” is -1.9 (8.3 – 8.2 – 7.5 – 6.4, 6+). A combined +.8 in May/June (3.1 – 3.3 – 3.9, 6+), Sarkes Tarzian-owned triple A WTTS “92.3 Experience The Music” relinquishes seven-tenths to 3.2 (ninth to tenth, 6+). Immediately prior to the May sweep, WTTS was -1.6 via three consecutive slips (4.7 – 4.0 – 3.8 – 3.1, 6+). In the market’s CHR tussle, Cumulus Media’s WZPL “99.5 ZPL” forfeits six-tenths (4.9, seventh to eighth, 6+), while Radio One’s similarly-formatted WNOW “100.9 Radio Now” is off one-half share (#14 to #15). WZPL was +1.2 in May/June (4.3 – 4.6 – 5.5, 6+), as was WNOW (1.3 – 1.8 – 2.5, 6+). Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WKLU posted a 3.4 (6+) in June 2019, but Indianapolis’ version of “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” is unlisted the 14^th time in a row.

Milwaukee

Spoken-Word Formats – Directly after logging four straight spikes that accounted for a +5.3 (4.0 – 4.2 – 5.2 – 5.8 – 9.3, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WISN “News/Talk 1130” is a collective -2.4 in three straight declines (9.3 – 8.6 – 7.2 – 6.8, second to fourth, 6+). WISN was on top in April and May. Despite being without an increase the third time in a row for a net loss of eight-tenths (6.3 – 6.1 – 5.5 – 5.5, 6+), Good Karma Brands’ WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” progresses from sixth to fifth. WTMJ was a combined +1.2 in March/April (5.1 – 5.7 – 6.3, 6+). The repetitive March 2020 through July 2020 topline for Alpha Media-owned WLIP “AM 1050 Kenosha’s News & Talk” is: .5 – .6 – .5 – .6 – .5 (#17 to #18, 6+).

Once again, four Milwaukee sports talk stations are separated by three-tenths of a share; in July, they combine for a 1.5 (6+). The only one in the quartet not losing ground is iHeartMedia-owned WRNW “97.3 The Game – Milwaukee’s Sports Talk That Rocks” (flat at .6 and remaining at #17, 6+). Down one-tenth each are Good Karma Brands’ WKTI “94.5 ESPN” (.5 – .4, #19 to #20, 6+); Entercom’s WSSP “Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” (.4 3 .4, flat at #21, 6+); and iHeartMedia’s WOKY “The Big 920,” which has its tenth straight sweep without an increase for a net loss of one-half share (.7 – .6 – .5 – .4 – .4 – .4 – .4 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .2, #22 to #23, 6+).

A combined -1.4 in May/June (5.0 – 4.1 – 3.6, 6+), University of Wisconsin news/talk WUWM picks up three-tenths to 3.9 (flat at #9, 6+). Off one-half share through three straight down or flat reports (1.4 – 1.4 – 1.0 – .9, 6+), Wisconsin Public Radio news/talk WHAD halts the skid with a +.1 to 1.0 (#15 to #16, 6+).

Milwaukee Music Formats – Milwaukee’s top three July 2020 finishers are separated by seven-tenths of a share. One member of that trio is WLDB “B-93.3.” The Milwaukee Radio Alliance adult contemporary outlet was +6.2 through three straight boosts (5.2 – 5.7 – 6.8 – 11.4, 6+); then lost nearly 60% (-6.7) of its 6+ AQH share in five consecutive downturns (11.4 – 7.3 – 7.0 – 5.8 – 5.0 – 4.7, 6+); and is now +2.5 in June/July (4.7 – 5.7 – 7.2, fifth to second, 6+). This (7.2) is its highest 6+-stat since January’s 7.3. Alternative sibling WLUM “FM 102.1 Sounds Different” logs its seventh successive positive or neutral sweep for a +1.7 and crosses the five-share level (3.6 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.6 – 4.7 – 5.3, eighth to seventh, 6+). Highlighted by June’s mammoth +2.2, iHeartMedia-owned WMIL was an overall +2.7 in three spikes in a row (6.0 – 6.1 – 6.5 – 8.7, 6+). In July, “FM 106.1 Milwaukee’s Best Country” falters by nine-tenths to 7.8 (6+) but repeats at #1. Co-owned urban contemporary WKKV “V-100.7,” which was +1.1 via five reports in succession without a loss (4.7 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 5.0 – 5.5 – 5.8, 6+), stumbles by four-tenths to 5.4 (fourth to sixth, 6+). With their “Holiday” 2019 (6+) AQH share and market rank information in parentheses, the following Saga Communications stations are unlisted the seventh month in a row: WKLH “96.5 Milwaukee’s Hometown Rock” (5.6, fifth, 6+); WHQG “102.9 The Hog Everything That Rocks” (4.7, eighth, 6+); urban AC WJMR “Jammin’ 98.3” (3.2, #13, 6+); and rhythmic CHR WNRG “Energy 106.9” (1.5, #15, 6+).

Nashville

Spoken-Word Formats – Bouncing back from May/June’s -.8 (5.4 – 5.3 – 4.6, 6+) with a July gain of two-tenths to 4.8 (6+), Cumulus Media’s WWTN progresses from tenth to ninth. “Super Talk 99.7” was up seven-tenths in March/April (4.7 – 5.3 – 5.4, 6+). Unchanged at #17, iHeartMedia’s WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” was a combined +.5 in March/April (2.2 – 2.3 – 2.7, 6+), but is -1.0 in three downturns in succession (2.7 – 2.4 – 2.0 – 1.7, 6+).

Off three tenths in June – following May’s increase of eight-tenths – Cumulus Media-owned sports talk WGFX “104.5 The Zone” regains one-half share (2.4 – 2.9, #14 to #13, 6+). As a result of six straight sweeps without an increase, Cromwell Group-owned/similarly-formatted WPRT “102.5 The Game” has lost 70% (-.7) of its 6+ AQH share (1.0 – .6 – .4 – .4 – .3 – .3 – .3, #22 to #23, 6+).

After gaining three-tenths in June (3.7 – 4.0, 6+), Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM “NPR News and Classical Music” is off two-tenths to 3.8 (6+) but remains at #11.

Nashville Music Formats – Not only is Midwest Communications-owned adult contemporary WJXA a collective +1.3 in three straight increases (8.1 – 8.2 – 8.4 – 9.4, 6+), “Mix 92.9 – Your Life, Your Music” repeats at #1. After spending five consecutive sweeps on top, WJXA shifted to #2 in April. “Mix” has been: -1.6 (October 2019); +2.2 (December); +6.1 (“Holiday” 2019); -5.5 (January 2020); +1.3 (February); -1.9 (March); -1.6 (April); and +1.0 (July). Nearly quintupling (+1.1) its 6+ AQH share in June/July (.3 – 5. – 1.4, 6+), Nashville Public Radio’s classical-formatted WFCL “91 Classical” cracks the top twenty (#21 to #18), hitting double-digits (1.4) for the first time since January’s 1.0. By gaining six-tenths to 2.9 (#15 to #13, 6+), Salem Media Group contemporary Christian WFFH “The Fish” pulls the plug on six successive negative or neutral reports that resulted in a -1.7 (4.0 – 3.2 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.4 – 2.3, 6+). After scoring back-to-back gains of eight-tenths (4.0 – 4.8 – 5.6, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR WRVW “107.5 The River” sputters by two-tenths to 5.4 (seventh to eighth, 6+). Meanwhile, similarly-programmed WRVW-HD2 debuts in print with a .6 (#21, 6+). The three latest (highly volatile) fluctuations by iHeartMedia-owned WNRQ “105.9 The Rock – Nashville’s Classic Rock” are: -1.6 (May); +2.7 (June); and -1.5 (7.8 – 6.3, third to fifth, July, 6+). Entering the May ratings period, “The Rock” more than doubled (+3.4) its 6+ AQH share in four straight spikes, including April’s +2.1 (3.3 – 3.8 – 4.0 – 4.6 -6.7, 6+). Continuing the theme of three most recent trends, co-owned WSIX has been: +1.2 (7.1 – 8.3, May, 6+); -1.2 (8.3 – 7.1, June, 6+); and -.7 (7.1 – 6.4, fourth to third, July, 6+). “The Big 98 – Nashville’s #1 For New Country” had a May-only stay on top and was off one-tenth in March/April (7.2 – 7.1 – 7.1, 6+). Elsewhere in the country format, Cumulus Media’s WSM-FM “95.5 Nash Icon” continues its alternating down/up pattern that commenced in December 2019 (5.5 – 4.7 – 5.0 – 4.7 – 5.2 – 4.8 – 5.6 – 5.2 – 5.5, eighth to sixth, 6+). Slipping from ninth to tenth, co-owned WKDF “Nash FM 103.3” records a March 2020 through July 2020 topline of: 4.2 – 5.0 – 4.8 – 4.9 – 4.6 (6+). Prior to May, “Nash FM 103.3” was a collective +1.7 through three straight increases (3.3 – 3.5 – 4.2 – 5.0, 6+). Meanwhile, the alternating down/up pattern in that same (March through July) timeframe for Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WLVU includes July’s loss of fourth-tenths: 1.8 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 3.2 – 2.8 (#13 to #15, 6+). In June, “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” reached the three-share level (3.2) for the first time since last September (3.5). Down or flat eight reports in a row for a -1.2 (1.3 – 1.1 – .9 – .7 – .5 – .2 – .1 – .1 – .1, 6+), TBLC Media’s Spanish contemporary WNVL “Activa” is unlisted the fourth month in a row.

Providence

Spoken-Word Formats – After more than doubling (+3.6) its 6+ AQH share in four straight up or flat trends (2.5 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 6.1, 6+), Cumulus Media-owned WPRO-AM “News Talk 630” is an overall -1.7 in three drops in succession (6.1 – 5.6 – 4.7 – 4.4, flat at #7, 6+).

Even though it returns the two-tenths it gained this time last month (1.2 – 1.4 – 1.2, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WHJJ “News Radio 920” continues at #16. Flat at .5 (6+), Cumulus Media’s WPRV “AM 790 Talk & Business” drops from #21 to #22. This immediately follows ten consecutive up or flat reports that netted four-tenths (.3 – .3 -.3 -.3 -.3 -.3 -.3 – .4 – .4 – .6 – .7, 6+).

In six straight down or flat survey periods, Entercom sports talk WVEI has essentially lost half (-2.1) its 6+ AQH share (4.1 – 3.4 – 3.1 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.1 – 2.0, 6+) yet advances from tenth to ninth.

A combined -.9 in April/May (2.2 – 1.5 – 1.3, 6+), iHeartMedia Boston’s WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” repeats June’s AQH and market rank (1.5, #14, 6+).

Without an increase the fourth time in a row for a net loss of -1.3 (3.2 – 3.0 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 1.9, 6+), WGBH Educational Foundation Boston news/talk WGBH departs the top ten (#9 to #11). Flat at #12, Rhode Island Public Radio news/talk WNPN is down one-half share in three straight negative or neutral moves (2.1 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.6 , #12, 6+). After posting either a .6 (6+) or .4 (6+) February 2020 through June 2020 (.6 – .4 – .6 – .4 – .4, 6+), The Wheeler School-owned news/talk WELH “89.3 The Public’s Radio” slips to .3 (flat at #23, 6+).

Providence Music Formats – Over and above adding eight-tenths to June’s +.7 (9.4 – 10.1 – 10.9, 6+), Hall Communications’ WCTK “Cat Country 98.1” marches from second to first. Ousted from the top spot after six straight months at #1 is iHeartMedia-owned WHJY “94 HJY Providence’s Home of Rock & Roll” (10.6, -.1, 6+), which trades places with WCTK. WHJY was up one-half share in May/June (10.2 – 10.6 – 10.7, 6+). Prior to the April ratings period, it was an overall +2.6 through three successive increases (8.0 – 9.4 – 10.2 – 10.6, 6+). Without an increase five successive sweeps for a collective -1.4 (7.4 – 7.2 – 7.1 – 7.0 – 6.9 – 6.0, 6+), Cumulus Media CHR WPRO-FM “Today’s Hit Music 92 PRO-FM” applies the brakes with a half share gain to 6.5 (fifth to fourth, 6+). June’s 6.0 was its lowest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2019’s 5.8. After netting a +1.3 as a result of four straight positive or neutral moves (4.8 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 5.8 – 6.1, 6+), iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWBB “B-101” surrenders nine-tenths to 5.2 (fourth to fifth, 6+). Unchanged in third-place, Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI is +1.2 in June/July (6.1 – 7.0 – 7.3, 6+). “Lite Rock 105” was -8.3 (16.8 – 8.9 – 8.5, January/February, 6+); +1.3 (8.5 – 9.8, March, 6+); -1.9 (9.8 – 7.9, April, 6+) -1.8 (7.9 – 6.1, May, 6+); and +.9 (6.1 – 7.0, June, 6+).

Norfolk

Spoken-Word Formats – Bouncing back from June’s half share loss with a July gain of three-tenths (1.5 – 1.0 – 1.3, 6+), Max Broadcast Group sports talk WVSP “ESPN Radio 94.1” climbs from #14 to #12. May’s increase of two tenths suspended seven straight down or flat reports that accounted for a net loss of nine-tenths (2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.3, 6+).

Norfolk Music Formats – Negating June’s -1.0 with a +1.1 (13.2 – 12.2 – 13.3, 6+), Entercom urban AC WVKL “Smooth R&B from Yesterday & Today” makes it 20 consecutive times at #1. WVKL was –1.5 (February); +.7 (March); -1.0 (April); +.6 (May); -1.0 (June); and +1.1 (July). August 2018’s 15.5 holds the record for highest 6+-performance by any Norfolk station in the PPM-era. The alternating down/up pattern of iHeartMedia alternative WNOH (#12 to #14) includes July’s -.8, which took “Alt 105.3” below a one-share: 1.8 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.4 – 1.5 – .7 (6+). It is now part of iHeartMedia’s Black Information Network. Off one-half share each are Entercom adult contemporary WWDE “101.3 2WD” (4.6 – 4.1, third to fourth, 6+) and WNVZ “Z-104” (3.6 – 3.1, fifth to seventh). WWDE was +.9 in May and -1.1 in June. After losing more than 60% (-7.7) of its 6+ AQH share through three straight setbacks (12.4 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 4.7, 6+), “2WD” was +1.0 in April/May (4.7 – 4.8 – 5.7, 6+). “Z-104” posted an increase of seven-tenths in June. Prior to that, it was -1.0 in three successive drops (3.9 – 3.7 – 3.2 – 2.9, 6+). These three Saga Communications-owned properties are unlisted the sixth month in a row: WAFX “106.9 The Fox – Hampton Roads’ Classic Rock”; WNOR “FM 99 Rocks”; and adult standards WJOI “Joy FM – Great Songs/Great Memories.” WAFX was -1.5 in December/“Holiday” 2019 (7.3 – 6.7 – 5.8, #4, 6+); WNOR lost basically half (-4.5) its 6+ AQH share via four consecutive downturns (9.1 – 7.5 – 7.2 – 5.4 – 4.6, 6+), finishing fifth in “Holiday” 2019; and WJOI logged a .2 in “Holiday” 2019 (#17, 6+).

Jacksonville

Spoken-Word Formats – Three drops in a row by Cox Media Group news/talk WOKV-FM account for an overall -3.9 (13.4 – 10.4 – 9.9 – 9.5, 6+), but “104.5 Jacksonville’s News, Weather, and Traffic” remains in the runner-up slot. Immediately prior, it garnered a +5.3 in five consecutive increases (8.1 – 8.3 – 9.8 – 10.4 – 11.8 – 13.4, 6+).

Off three-tenths (.9 – .6, 6+), iHeartMedia sports talk WFXJ “930 The Game – Jacksonville’s Sports Leader” slips from #18 to #19. “The Game” was a combined +.6 in March/April (.8 – 1.2 – 1.4, 6+) but surrendered the entire increase in May.

Erasing back-to-back losses of seven-tenths (3.9 – 3.2 – 2.5, 6+) with a June/July +1.5 (2.5 – 3.7 – 4.0, 6+), public radio news/talk WJCT reenters the top ten (#12 to #10).

Jacksonville Music Formats – Owing to four straight setbacks, WEJZ “96.1 The Most Music For Your Workday” was -1.8 (12.0 – 11.1 – 10.8 – 10.7 – 10.2, 6+), but the Renda Broadcasting adult contemporary outlet pulls the plug with a +1.4 to 11.6 (6+) and is #1 the third time in a row. In addition, WEJZ notches double-digits the sixth consecutive sweep and eighth time in the last nine reports. WEJZ held the top spot from December 2019 through February 2020. Meanwhile, Cox Media Group’s similarly-formatted WEZI is down or flat the third time in a row for a -1.3 (5.6 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 4.3, seventh to eighth, 6+). “Easy 102.9” has its lowest 6+-stat (4.3) since “Holiday” 2019’s 4.1. As a result of three positive trends in a row, Renda Broadcasting’s WGNE “99.9 Jacksonville’s Hottest Country” is +2.0 (4.0 – 4.1 – 4.9 – 6.0, seventh to fifth, 6+). Conversely, iHeartMedia-owned WQIK “Jacksonville’s Country 99.1” falters by a full-share to 4.5 (fifth to seventh). WQIK was +1.9 in May/June (3.6 – 4.9 – 5.5, 6+), directly after being down or flat three reports in succession for a -1.0 (4.6 – 4.6 – 4.2 – 3.6, 6+). After logging a 6.3 (6+) in four of the last six survey periods (6.3 – 6.3 – 6.4 – 6.3 – 6.3 – 6.1, 6+), iHeartMedia urban AC WSOL “V-101.5” improves by one-half share to 6.6 (6+) and continues in fourth-place. Good Tidings Trust’s religious teaching WAYR “WAY Radio Jacksonville” pops on with a .6 (#19, 6+). In six straight sweeps without a loss, iHeartMedia CHR WKSL was a cumulative +1.7 (2.4 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 3.3 – 4.1, 6+), but “97.9 Kiss-FM” surrenders roughly half that windfall with a -.8 to 3.3 (6+) and exits the top ten (#10 to #12).

West Palm Beach

Spoken-Word Formats – Down or flat the third time in a row for a net loss of eight-tenths (4.7 – 4.6 – 3.9 – 3.9, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WJNO “1290 The Palm Beaches’ News & Talk” drops from sixth to seventh. It previously posted four consecutive up or flat reports that generated an overall +1.9 (2.8 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.5 – 4.7, 6+). Co-owned news/talk WZZR “Real Radio 94.3 – Real Talk For The Palm Beaches,” which was up one-half share in March/April (1.7 – 2.0 – 2.2, 6+), regresses by three-tenths in three consecutive sweeps without an increase (2.2 – 2.0 – 1.9 – 1.9, flat at #12, 6+). Following six straight negative or neutral trends that resulted in a -1.4 (2.1 – 1.4 – 1.1 – 1.1 – .8 – .8 – .7, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting’s WFTL “News Talk 850” answers with three straight improvements netting six-tenths (.7 – 1.1 – 1.2 – 1.3, #14 to #15, 6+). Locked on .7 (6+) in April and May, iHeartMedia Miami news/talk WIOD “610 News Radio” is now stuck on .6 (6+) in June/July (#20 to #19, 6+).

Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” logs a .2 (6+) the third time in the last four reports (.2 – .7 – .2 – .2, #23 to #24, 6+).

Despite dropping one-tenth (3.5 – 3.4, 6+), Dade County School Board public radio news/talk WLRN advances from ninth to eighth. Prior to May’s loss of one-tenth, WLRN was an overall +.9 in four straight up or flat reports (2.0 – 2.5 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.9, 6+).

West Palm Beach Music Formats – On a roll, Hubbard Broadcasting urban AC WMBX “X-102.3” is a collective +2.8 (which includes July’s +1.4) as a result of four straight spikes (3.0 – 3.8 – 4.1 – 4.4 – 5.8, fifth to third, 6+). This (5.8) is its best 6+-stat since January’s 6.8. After faltering by six-tenths in June, iHeartMedia CHR WLDI “WiLD 95.5 The Palm Beaches’ #1 Hit Music Station” answers with a +1.0 (3.7 – 4.7, eighth to sixth, 6+). Prior to June’s decrease, WLDI was +1.0 in four straight up or flat reports (3.3 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 4.0 – 4.3, 6+). Adult contemporary cluster-mate WOLL “Today’s KOOL 105.5” remains in the runner-up slot and continues an alternating up/down pattern that includes July’s +.6: 7.6 – 7.7 – 6.7 – 7.2 – 6.9 – 7.5 (6+). Unlisted in April, May, and June, WAY Media contemporary Christian WAYF “WAY-FM” reappears with a 2.6 (#10, 6+). After logging a May +3.7 and a June -1.9, Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WRMF “Variety from the 90s and Now” is up a modest three-tenths (8.3 – 8.6, 6+) and #1 the third straight time. Entering the May sweep, WRMF was -2.3 via three straight setbacks (8.8 – 8.7 – 7.7 – 6.5, 6+). It had been on top three months in a row before falling to third in April. After spending 12 ratings periods at #1, WRMF slid to #2 in “Holiday” 2019 (-1.5). A combined +1.2 in May/June (2.7 – 2.8 – 3.9, 6+), co-owned WIRK relinquishes 75% of that increase (3.0, -.9, sixth to ninth, 6+). Prior to May, “New Country 103.1” was an overall -2.8 in six straight down or flat reports (5.5 – 4.7 – 4.6 – 4.4 – 3.7 – 2.7 – 2.7, 6+). On the heels of June’s +1.2 (5.0 – 6.2, 6+), classic hits-oldies sibling WEAT “Sunny 107.9” sputters by eight-tenths to 5.4 (third to fourth, 6+). Part of a three-way March tie at #1, WEAT emerged in sole possession of the lead, but eroded by -2.2 in May. “Sunny” was up three-tenths in February/March (7.4 – 7.6 – 7.7, 6+) and then off one-half share (7.7 – 7.2, April, 6+). Dropping six-tenths each are iHeartMedia Miami CHR WHYI “Y-100” (1.7, #10 to #13) and Glades Media Spanish contemporary WWRF “AM 1380 Radio Fiesta” (1.2 – .6, #14 to #19, 6+). “Y-100” was a combined +1.0 in May/June (1.3 – 1.7 – 2.3, and had its best West Palm Beach showing (2.3, 6+) since last September (2.5, 6+). Before notching a +.8 in June, WWRF had a January 2020 through May 2020 topline of: .3 – .4 – .5 – .2 – .4 (6+). “AM 1380 Radio Fiesta” logged a +1.3 in December 2019 (.3 – 1.6, 6+), but forfeited the increase in its entirety the very next sweep (.3 – 1.3, “Holiday” 2019, 6+). A combined +1.5 in May/June (4.3 – 4.6 – 5.8, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WKGR “98.7 The Palm Beaches’ Rock Station” forfeits one-third of that increase (5.3, -.5, fourth to fifth, 6+).

Greensboro

Spoken-Word Formats – An overall -1.4 via three straight drops (5.6 – 5.0 – 4.8 – 4.2, 6+), WPTI “94.5 Your News, Talk, & Sports Station” continues in ninth-place. The iHeartMedia news/talker had been a collective +2.6 via four consecutive gains (3.0 – 3.9 – 4.7 – 5.1 – 5.6, 6+).

Down one-tenth in May/June (-.5 – .5 -.4, 6+), Curtis Media Group sports talk WSJS “Triad Sports” gains two-tenths in July to .6 (flat at #15, 6+).

Adding one-half share to June’s +.3 (2.8 – 3.1 – 3.6, 6+), Wake Forest University news/talk WFDD carries on at #11. The December 2019 through July 2020 topline for University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill public radio news/talk WUNC is: 1.5 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.4 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.4 (#14 to #13, 6+).

Greensboro Music Formats – Sharing top honors with Emmis Indianapolis adult contemporary WYXB (see above) for registering the largest (6+) June 2020 – July 2020 increase (+1.9) by any station in these 12 PPM-markets, Entercom adult hits WSMW “98.7 Simon Says We Play Everything” (8.3 – 10.2, 6+) continues in the runner-up slot. Entering the May report, “Simon” was a collective -2.8 in three straight drops (10.4 – 8.9 – 8.1 – 7.6, 6+). Its recent (6+) fluctuations include: +1.4 (September 2019); +1.0 (November); -1.2 (December); -2.2 (“Holiday” 2019); +1.9 (January 2020); +1.2 (May); and +1.9 (July). Tacking on eight-tenths to June’s +1.3 (6.7 – 8.0 – 8.8, 6+), WMAG remains in third-place. In three straight declines, the iHeartMedia adult contemporary outlet was -1.4 (8.1 – 7.6 – 7.1 – 6.7, 6+). Four successive spikes delivered WMAG a +9.9 and a “Holiday” 2019-only stay at #1 (6.3 – 6.4 – 7.5 – 10.2 – 16.2, 6+). In January though, WMAG had its 6+ AQH share plummet by roughly 54% (16.2 – 7.4, 6+). After posting an 11.1 (6+) three times in a row, Entercom urban AC WQMG “97.1 QMG The Best R&B and Old School” slips two-tenths to 10.9 (6+), but is #1 the fifth successive sweep. The July slip suspended four consecutive up or flat trends that yielded a +1.2 (9.9 – 10.5 – 10.8 – 11.1 – 11.1 – 11.1, 6+), This directly follows three consecutive losses that resulted in a -1.1 (11.0 – 10.9 – 10.1 – 9.9, 6+). In 2019, WQMG was #1 in January, February, April, May, July, and December. The three most recent fluctuations by Curtis Media Group regional Mexican WYMY “La Ley 101.1” are: +.7 (1.8 – 2.5, May, 6+); -.6 (2.5 – 1.9, June, 6+); and -.9 (1.9 – 1.0, July, #13 to #14, 6+). Prior to May, WYMY had been without an increase four reports in a row for a net loss of one-half share (2.3 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 1.8, 6+). Including July’s loss of eight-tenths, Dick Broadcasting classic rock WKRR “Rock 92” is -1.7 in three straight decreases (8.3 – 7.5 – 7.4 – 6.6, flat at #4, 6+).

Memphis

Spoken-Word Formats – Off one-tenth (5.5 – 5.4, 6+), WREC “600 AM – Memphis’ News, Traffic, & Weather” slips from fifth to seventh. The iHeartMedia news/talker plummeted by -1.5 in May.

The March 2020 through July 2020 alternating up/down pattern for Entercom’s WMFS “ESPN Sports Radio” is: 2.3 – 1.8 – 2.4 – 1.8 – 2.0 (#14 to #13, 6+).

Memphis Music Formats – Improving by +1.0 and +.5, respectively, are Entercom’s WLFP “94.1 The Wolf” (steady at #12) and Cumulus Media-owned/similarly (country)-formatted WGKX “Kix 106 Today’s Best Country” (unchanged at #8). In the last three sweeps, “The Wolf” is +1.0 (2.2 – 2.2- 2.2 – 3.2, 6+), while “Kix 106” is +1.4 in the same period (3.3 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.7, 6+). Neither station was down in that stretch. Notching July 2020 increases of seven-tenths are: Cumulus Media’s WXMX “98.1 The Max – Maximum Rock” (6.0 – 6.7, steady at #4, 6+); adult contemporary sibling WRVR “104.5 The River” (seventh to sixth); and iHeartMedia’s WDIA “1070 The Heart & Soul of Memphis” (3.7, unchanged at #10, 6+). After crossing the six-share threshold by notching three straight increases for a collective +2.3 (4.2 – 5.5 – 5.7 – 6.5, 6+), “Max” relinquished one-half share in June. “The River” is +1.1 in June/July (4.6 – 5.0 – 5.7, 6+) and has its best 6+-showing since February (5.7, as well). Having more than doubled (+2.2) its 6+ AQH stat through five straight up or flat trends (1.9 – 1.9 – 2.2 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 4.1, 6+), WDIA forfeited half (-1.1) that increase in May/June (4.1 – 3.9 – 3.0, 6+). Up one-half share are WDIA’s gospel and classic rock cluster-mates WHAL “Hallelujah 95.7 – Memphis’ Inspiration Station” (steady at #5) and WEGR “Rock 103 – Memphis’ Classic Rock” (3.7, #10 to #11, 6+). In three bumps in succession, WHAL is +1.0 (5.2 – 5.3 – 5.7 – 6.2, 6+); WEGR was down nine-tenths in May/June (3.9 – 3.6 – 3.0 6+). Up eight-tenths in June/July (9.9 – 10.4 – 10.7, 6+), Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO “103.5 The Best Mix of R&B” is #1 the fifth straight time. May’s -1.2 interrupted three consecutive improvements that generated a +2.8 (8.3 – 9.1 – 11.0 – 11.1, 6+) and enabled WRBO to hit double-digits (11.0) for the first time since November 2018 (10.7). Entering the January sweep, it was +1.4 in three improvements in succession (7.1 – 7.3 – 7.9 – 8.5, 6+). Three straight gains by iHeartMedia urban contemporary WHRK netted a +2.4 (6.8 – 7.3 – 8.1 – 9.2, 6+), but “K-97” is -1.8 in June/July (9.2 – 9.1 – 7.4, second to third, 6+). WHRK was a combined -1.0 in January/February (7.8 – 6.9 – 6.8, 6+). While it remains in the runner-up slot, urban AC cluster-mate KJMS spirals by –1.1 to 8.0 (6+). In three straight sweeps without a loss “V-101” was up six-tenths (8.5 – 8.7 – 9.1 – 9.1, 6+). As a result of five straight survey periods without an increase, Mid-South Public Communications’ classical WKNO has lost half (-1.0) its 6+ AQH share (2.0 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.0, #17 to #16, 6+).

Hartford

Spoken-Word Formats – Following six successive up or flat moves that yielded a +2.1 (5.7 – 6.1 – 6.2 – 7.2 – 7.6 – 7.8 – 7.8, 6+), Entercom-owned WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” craters by -1.7 to 6.1 (fourth to seventh, 6+). Having trended .7 – .8 – .7 (April – May – June, 6+), Red Wolf Broadcasting news/talk WDRC-AM “AM 1360 The Talk of Connecticut” dials up a gain of six-tenths to 1.3 (#14 to #13, 6+). Remaining at #15, iHeartMedia’s WPOP “News Radio 1410” logs a .2 (6+) the third time in a row. In 23 consecutive reports, WPOP recorded either a .1 (6+) or a .2 (6+) – then notched a .7 (April, 6+).

WPOP’s sports talk cluster-mate, WUCS “97.9 ESPN Hartford,” is down one-half share in June/July (1.4 – 1.1 – .9, #13 to #14, 6+).

Four successive reports without an increase by Connecticut Public Broadcasting Network news/talk WNPR “Connecticut’s Public Media Source for News & Ideas” resulted in a -2.0 (4.6 – 4.3 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 2.6, 6+); however, WNPR ends the slide with a gain of three-tenths to 2.9 (#11 to #10, 6+). Owing to six consecutive down or flat trends, University of Massachusetts-owned WFCR “New England Public Radio” has lost half (-.2) its 6+ AQH share (.4 – .3 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2, flat at #15, 6+).

Hartford Music Formats – Stacking nine-tenths onto June’s improvement of seven-tenths, Entercom rhythmic CHR WZMX “Hot 93.7” crosses the seven-share level and inches up from fifth to fourth (6.0 – 6.7 – 7.6, 6+). June’s spike curtailed three straight modest dips that accounted for a net loss of four-tenths (6.4 – 6.3 – 6.1 – 6.0, 6+). Adult contemporary cluster-mate WRCH “Lite 100.5” is +1.8 via three straight upticks (8.9 – 9.4 – 9.9 – 10.7, 6+) and is #1 the third time in a row. A combined -2.1 in March/April (11.0 – 9.9 – 8.9, 6+), WRCH segued to the runner-up slot after 46 straight times at #1. “Lite 100.5” was a combined +8.6 in December/“Holiday” 2019 (9.8 – 11.5 – 18.4, 6+) and -7.7 in January; 18.4 is the best 6+-showing by any Hartford station since WRCH’s 18.0 in “Holiday” 2018. Recent (6+) WRCH shifts include: +1.7 (December); +6.9 (“Holiday” 2019); -7.7 (January 2020); -1.1 (March); -1.0 (April 2020); and +.5 (June). It shared the lead in May with Red Wolf Broadcasting classic rock WDRC-FM, which is -1.3 in June/July (9.4 – 9.3 – 8.1, 6+); “102.9 The Whale” repeats in the runner-up slot. Off three-tenths in February (6.8 – 6.5, 6+), WDRC-FM countered with a +2.4 in March/April (6.5 – 7.6 – 8.9, 6+). Following four reports in a row without a loss for a collective +1.4 (1.6 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 3.0, 6+), Spanish tropical sibling WMRQ-HD2 is -1.0 in June/July (3.0 – 2.8 – 2.0, #10 to #12, 6+). Down or flat the third time in a row for an overall -1.9 (9.8 – 8.4 – 8.4 – 7.9, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WWYZ “Country 92.5” continues in third-place. Red Wolf Broadcasting classic hits-oldies WNTY “Kool Radio – Good Times/Great Oldies” is without an increase the 13^th time in succession for a net loss of three-tenths (.5 – .4 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2, 6+) and carries on at #15.

July 2020 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round Three

TALKERS | August 6, 2020

July 2020 PPM Data – Information for the July 2020 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 July 2020 survey period covered June 18 – July 15. Managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” from these 12 PPM-markets.

Portland

Spoken Word Formats – Carving May’s -1.0 in half with a June/July +.5 (6.0 – 6.4 – 6.5, 6+), Alpha Media-owned news/talk KXL “FM News 101 – Stay Connected” continues in third-place. In the iHeartMedia cluster, KEX “News Radio 1190 – Depend On Us” posts a July gain of two-tenths to 3.8 (#13 to #12, 6+). Its June drop of three-tenths followed nine straight up or flat moves that generated an overall +1.6 (2.3 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.8 – 3.2 – 3.8 – 3.9, 6+). Albeit flat at 1.4 (6+), Alpha Media news/talk KUFO progresses from #22 to #21. “Freedom 970” was off four-tenths in April/May (1.4 – 1.2 – 1.0, 6+), but purged the shortfall in June with a +.4. Flat at #27, Salem Media Group’s KPAM “AM 860 The Answer” has logged either a .4 (6+) or .5 (6+) in each of the last eleven (11) survey periods: .5 – .4 – .4 – .4 – .4 – .4 – .4 – .5 – .4 – .4 – .5, 6+).

Without an increase the past nine reports for a roughly 44% drop (-.7) of its 6+ AQH share (1.6 – 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.1 – 1.1 – .9, 6+), Entercom sports talk KFXX “1080 The Fan” applies the brakes with a +.2 to 1.1 (#23 to #22, 6+). Directly after netting four-tenths in three consecutive gains (1.5 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.9, 6+), Alpha Media’s similarly-formatted KXTG “The Game” is -1.1 in June/July (1.9 – 1.6 – .8, #21 to #23, 6+). Although it remains at #30, iHeartMedia-owned KPOJ “Sports Radio 620” picks up one-tenth to .3 (6+), thus snapping at five a consecutive string of down or flat sweeps that resulted in a roughly 78% loss of its 6+ AQH share (.9 – .7 – .6 – .2 – .2 – .2, 6+).

Notwithstanding that it records a drop the third month in succession for a collective -1.3 (10.1 – 9.3 – 9.1 – 8.8, 6+), Oregon Public Broadcasting news/talk KOPB is #1 the fourth time in a row. KOPB and iHeartMedia adult contemporary KKCW are the only Portland stations to achieve double-digits (6+) in the PPM-era; KOPB was a combined +1.9 in March/April (8.2 – 9.9 – 10.1, 6+).

Portland Music Formats – As a result of notching a +.9, iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR KXJM not only continues its alternating up/down sequence but “JAM’N 107.5” reaches a five-share (3.6 – 4.4 – 4.1 – 5.0, eighth to fifth, 6+). Repeating in the runner-up slot is its aforementioned adult contemporary cluster-mate, KKCW “K-103,” which is +1.5 via three straight upticks (5.6 – 5.9 – 6.7 – 7.1, 6+). May’s increase pulled the plug on four straight setbacks that led to an approximately 60% (-8.3) loss of its 6+ AQH share (13.9 – 8.5 – 8.4 – 7.1 – 5.6, 6+). Setting the pace four sweeps in succession (including sharing January’s lead with public radio news/talk KOPB), “K-103” segued to #2 in March. A combined +6.5 in December/“Holiday” 2019 (7.4 – 9.1 – 13.9, 6+), KKCW regressed by -5.4 in January; 13.9 was its highest 6+-share since “Holiday” 2018’s 16.2. In four straight up or flat moves, CHR sibling KKRZ “Z-100 Portland’s #1 Hit Music Station” nets eight-tenths and remains at #11 (3.1 – 3.2 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 3.9, 6+). When Entercom adult hits KYCH gained four-tenths this time last month, it suspended five consecutive slips in which it basically lost half (-3.3) its 6+ AQH share (6.7 – 5.9 – 4.7 – 4.2 – 3.9 – 3.4, 6+). In July, “97.1 Charlie – We Play Everything” adds six-tenths (3.8 – 4.4, 6+) and zooms into the top ten (#11 to #7). In three consecutive reports without a loss, Alpha Media triple A KINK “101.9 Independent Portland” gains eight-tenths (2.2 – 2.2 – 2.5 – 3.0, 6+) and elevates from #20 to a four-way scrum at #15. A combined +1.5 in April/May (3.0 – 4.3, 4.5, 6+), All Classical Public Media KQAC is -1.5 in June/July (4.5 – 4.0 – 3.0, 6+). Ranking #10 in June, “All Classical Portland” joins KINK as part of the four-way logjam at #15. Mount Hood Community College jazz outlet KMHD continues an alternating up/down pattern that includes July’s -.8: 2.3 – 3.1 – 2.8 – 3.0 – 2.2 (#16 to #20, 6+).

Charlotte

Spoken-Word Formats – Despite being -1.2 in three slips in succession (7.1 – 6.3 – 6.0 – 5.9, 6+), Entercom-owned WBT progresses from fourth to third. “Charlotte’s News Talk” had more than doubled (+3.6) its 6+ AQH share through four increases in a row (3.5 – 4.9 – 5.3 – 5.7 – 7.1, 6+).

Co-owned WFNZ “The Fan – Charlotte’s Sports Leader” is without an increase the fourth consecutive time for a net loss of seven-tenths (1.8 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.3 – 1.1, flat at #18, 6+).

The very consistent January 2020 through July 2020 topline for iHeartMedia contemporary Christian WRFX-HD2 is: .2 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .1 – .2 – .1 (6+). As of June 29, it joined iHeartMedia’s Black News Network.

Up seven-tenths in three straight sweeps without a loss (2.7 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.4, 6+), University Radio Foundation news/talk WFAE advances from #14 to #11.

Charlotte Music Formats – The wild ride continues for Beasley Media Group-owned WSOC “Country’s Hottest Hits,” which was -1.2 (“Holiday” 2019); +1.0 (January 2020); +2.6 via three consecutive February through May increases (5.5 – 5.7 – 7.5 – 8.1, 6+); -.8 (8.1 – 7.3, June, 6+); and now a whopping +1.5 (7.3 – 8.8, July, 6+). Furthermore, WSOC storms from second to first. “Country’s Hottest Hits” last occupied the top spot in May 2019. At this time last month, WSOC had a nine-tenths advantage over iHeartMedia-owned/similarly programmed WKKT, but it widens considerably (to 3.4) as “96.9 The Kat Charlotte’s #1 For New Country” spirals by -1.0 to 5.4 (third to seventh, 6+). “The Kat” had been +1.2 through four spikes in succession (5,2 – 5.7 – 5.9 – 6.0 – 6.4, 6+). Segueing to the runner-up slot after setting the pace the past six sweeps is iHeartMedia classic rock WRFX “99.7 The Fox,” which is an overall -3.5 in three straight downturns (10.2 – 8.4 – 8.0 – 6.7, 6+). Entering the May sweep, WRFX was a collective +3.8 via four successive increases (6.4 – 6.8 – 7.9 – 8.1 – 10.2, 6+) and reached double-digits (10.2, 6+). The only other Charlotte station hitting double-digits in the PPM-era is Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WKQC, which has done it seven times. Immediately prior, “The Fox” had been -1.9 via three straight drops (8.3 – 8.2 – 7.3 – 6.4, 6+). Pushing up from #12 to #11, Entercom hot AC WLNK “107.9 The Link Charlotte’s Best Mix” is a cumulative +1.3 in three bumps in a row (2.1 – 2.4 – 3.3 – 3.4, 6+). By picking up one-tenth to 4.9 (flat at #8, 6+), iHeartMedia adult hits WLKO “102.9 The Lake We Play Anything” halts three successive drops that accounted for a -2.5 (7.3 – 5.4 – 5.3 – 4.8, 6+). The market’s (6+) CHR share shrinks by -1.5 as iHeartMedia-owned WHQC “Hits 96.1” is -.8 (3.9, ninth to tenth, 6+) and Beasley Media Group’s WNKS “Kiss 95.1” is -.7 (2.8, #11 to #15, 6+). “Hits 96.1” was +1.3 in May/June (3.4 – 3.7 – 4.7, 6+) and had its strongest 6+-stat (4.7) since last September’s 5.0. “Kiss” was up three tenths in May/June (3.2 – 3.2 – 3.5, 6+).

San Antonio

Spoken-Word Formats – The market’s top six July 2020 finishers are separated by six-tenths of a share. Included in that group is iHeartMedia-owned WOAI “News Radio 1200 – San Antonio’s News, Traffic, & Weather,” which has been: +1.0 (5.3 – 5.7 – 6.3, January/February, 6+); -.5 (6.3 – 5.8, March, 6+); +2.1 (5.8 – 7.9, April, 6+); -.8 (7.9 – 7.1, May, 6+); -.6 (7.1 – 6.5, June); and now -1.0 (6.5 – 5.5, flat at #2, 6+). While WOAI is a collective -2.4 the last three reports (7.9 – 5.5, 6+), Alpha Media news/talk KTSA “Stay Connected” notches three modest advances in the same timeframe for a +.7 (1.4 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 2.1, #21 to #20, 6+).

Alpha Media sports talk KZDC “ESPN San Antonio” and iHeartMedia-owned KTKR “Ticket 760 – San Antonio’s Sports Station” are finally separated. The two were deadlocked at #28 in May and at #30 in June, but KTKR gains two-tenths (.4 – .6, #27, 6+), while KZDC is up one-tenth (.4 – .5, #29, 6+).

After losing nine-tenths in four straight decreases (3.4 – 3.2 – 2.9 – 2.6 – 2.5, 6+), Texas Public Radio news/talk KSTX ends the slide with a +.3 to 2.8 (#17 to #16, 6+).

San Antonio Music Formats – Improving by eight-tenths each are Univision Radio regional Mexican KROM “Que Buena 92.9” (5.5, sixth to second, 6+) and Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KZLV “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” (#15 to #11). Prior to being -.9 in May/June (5.6 – 5.3 – 4.7, 6+), “Que Buena” was +1.9 in four consecutive up or flat trends (3.7 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.7 – 5.6, 6+). Matching February’s 3.7, KZLV is +1.1 in June/July (2.6 – 2.9 – 3.7, 6+). Albeit that it follows June’s -1.5 with a July -1.1 (8.4 – 6.9 – 5.8, 6+), Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies KONO-FM “101.1 San Antonio’s Greatest Hits” is #1 the seventh consecutive time. Directly prior, KONO-FM netted a +1.6 through three jumps in a row (6.8 – 7.3 – 8.2 – 8.4, 6+). “San Antonio’s Greatest Hits” had been the market leader ten successive ratings periods before segueing to #2 in “Holiday” 2019. KONO-FM was -1.8 (“Holiday” 2019); +.8 (January 2020); and -.7 (February). Even though Cox Media Group’s KCYY logs its third straight spike for a collective increase of seven-tenths (4.6 – 4.7 – 5.2 – 5.3, 6+), “Y-100 San Antonio’s New Country Leader” downslides from third to fourth. “Y-100” was a combined -2.0 in March/April (6.6 – 6.3 – 4.6, 6+). For the third time in the last five survey periods, Univision Radio rhythmic CHR KBBT “98.5 The Beat” records a 2.8 (2.8 – 2.8 – 3.0 – 3.3 – 2.8, #13 to #16, 6+).

Sacramento

Spoken-Word Formats – In three straight hefty declines, iHeartMedia-owned KFBK is an overall -3.7 (11.6 – 9.4 – 8.9 – 7.9, 6+) and – after six straight times at #1 – “Sacramento’s News, Weather and Traffic Station” shifts to #3. KFBK was +2.7 in January and a combined +3.2 in March/April (8.4 – 10.3 – 11.6, 6+). April 2020’s 11.6 is its highest 6+-stat in the PPM-era, besting the previous high (10.3) set in March 2020. After returning the three-tenths it added in May (1.8 – 2.1 – 1.8, 6+), cluster-mate KSTE “Talk 650” erupts with a +1.2 to 3.0 (#15 to #13, 6+). The last time KSTE reached the three-share level was September 2019 (3.0, as well). May’s increase suspended three straight downturns that led to a loss of four-tenths (2.2 – 2.2 – 1.9 – 1.8, 6+).

Despite losing nearly half (-.5) its 6+ AQH share in three straight reports without an increase (1.1 – .8 – .6 – .6, 6+), Entercom sports talk KIFM-AM “ESPN Radio 1320” progresses from #22 to #21. Bonneville’s similarly-formatted KHTK “Sports 1140” is off three-tenths in June/July (.8 – .6 – .5, -.2, #22 to #23, 6+). These two sports talkers were deadlocked last July, August, and October.

As a result of three modest increases, Capital Public Radio news/talk KXJZ nets one-half share (4.5 – 4.8 – 4.9 – 5.0, 6+) and repeats in sixth-place.

Sacramento Music Formats – A combined -1.3 in May/June (4.4 – 3.4 – 3.1, 6+), Entercom rhythmic CHR KSFM wipes away approximately half the deficit with a +.7 to 3.8 (6+) and enters the top ten (#13 to #9).

Bonneville hot AC KZZO “Now 100.5 Today’s Best Hits” replicates June’s +.6 and is an overall +2.3 in three straight jumps (1.8 – 2.9 – 3.5 – 4.1, tenth to seventh, 6+). KZZO was +1.1 in January/February (2.6 – 2.8 – 3.7, 6+) and -1.9 in March/April (3.7 – 3.2 – 1.8, 6+). In an alternating down/up pattern that includes July’s +.5, co-owned KNCI “New Country 105.1” is trending: 7.9 – 7.7 – 7.8 – 7.7 – 8.2 (third to second, 6+). It is two-tenths from the lead now held by Entercom classic rock KSEG “96.9 The Eagle” (8.8 – 8.4, -.4, second to first, 6+). A one-tenth June loss terminated three straight advancements that resulted in a +1.9 (7.0 – 7.3 – 7.6 – 8.9, 6+). Co-owned CHR KUDL “106.5 The End” craters by -1.3 and drifts from the top ten (#9 to #14) as it continues an alternating down/up sequence of 4.4 – 3.6 – 3.8 – 2.5 (6+). A combined -1.2 in June/July (5.1 – 4.9 – 3.9, 6+), Bonneville adult contemporary KYMX slips from sixth to eighth. “Mix 96” set the pace in “Holiday” 2019 (12.6, 6+). Faltering by six-tenths each are Entercom-owned KRXQ “98 Rock” (flat at #4) and iHeartMedia urban-rhythmic oldies KHYL “V-101” (eighth to tenth). KRXQ is -1.7 in three straight drops (7.5 – 7.2 – 6.4 – 5.8, 6+), immediately after being +2.7 through five jumps in a row (4.8 – 5.2 – 5.3 – 6.2 – 6.3 – 7.5, 6+). Three consecutive increases by “V-101” yielded a +1.4 (2.6 – 2.9 – 3.5 – 4.0, 6+), directly following six straight down or flat reports for an overall -1.9 (4.5 – 3.9 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 2.9 – 2.8 – 2.6, 6+).

Pittsburgh

Spoken-Word Formats – A combined -2.2 in May/June (7.3 – 6.5 – 5.1, 6+), KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020” improves by three-tenths to 5.4 (6+) and is anchored in fourth-place. The Entercom-owned heritage outlet was previously +4.2 via four straight spikes (3.1 – 4.0 – 4.3 – 5.6 – 7.3, 6+).

Co-owned sports talk KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan,” which gained four-tenths in May, is -1.9 in June/July (6.3 – 4.5 – 4.4, eighth to ninth, 6+). May’s increase interrupted three straight slips that resulted in a -2.0 (7.9 – 7.5 – 6.7 – 5.9, 6+).

Precisely mirroring KDKA-AM (see above), Essential Public Media news/talk WESA “90.5 Pittsburgh’s NPR Station” logs a July 5.1 – 5.4 (6+) and continues at #4.

Pittsburgh Music Formats – It’s unrealistic to think iHeartMedia rocker WDVE would approach (let alone top) June’s gigantic +2.4 (8.5 – 10.9, 6+). Instead, it settles for a modest decline of four-tenths to 10.5 (6+) and is #1 the fifth month in a row. Prior to June (10.9), the last time WDVE reached double-digits (6+) was October 2017 (10.2). WDVE’s very consistent “Holiday” 2019 through May 2020 topline was: 8.2 – 8.1 – 8.3 – 8.2 – 8.3 – 8.5 (6+). In addition to being steady in the runner-up slot, classic hits-oldies sibling WWSW “94.5 3WS” nets a +2.4 via three successive gains (7.1 – 8.1 – 9.2 – 9.5, 6+). This (9.5) is its best 6+-showing since “Holiday” 2019’s 13.6. WWSW was a combined -1.6 in March/April (8.7 – 7.4 – 7.1, 6+). Co-owned CHR WKST “96.1 Kiss-FM” is +1.1 in three sweeps in a row without a loss (3.9 – 4.3 – 5.0 – 5.0, flat at #6, 6+), directly after being -1.2 in three straight drops (5.1 – 4.9 – 4.6 – 3.9, 6+). Alternative cluster-mate WXDX “105.9 The X,” which was -1.5 as a result of four consecutive slips (5.1 – 4.6 – 4.5, 3.8 – 3.6, 6+), ends the slide with a +.3 to 3.9 (6+) and reenters the top ten (#11 to #10). A loss of nine-tenths takes Steel City Media adult hits WRRK below a seven-share (7.1 – 6.2, 6+) for the first time since February 2019 (6.9), but “96.9 Bob FM” remains in third-place. After posting four straight spikes that resulted in a +2.7 (1.9 – 2.7 – 3.1 – 4.3 – 4.6, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WPGB “Big 104.7 Pittsburgh’s #1 For New Country” is -1.2 in three straight drops (4.6 – 4.1 – 4.0 – 3.4, 6+) and exits the top ten (#10 to #12). In “Holiday” 2019, “Big 104.7” faltered by one-half share to 1.9, halting 13 successive survey periods of posting a 6+-stat within 2.3 – 2.9 range. Conversely, Entercom-owned WDSY is up a total of one-half share in these last three sweeps (4.3 – 4.5 – 4.6 – 4.8, 6+). “Pittsburgh’s Country Y-108” is unchanged in seventh-place. Once again unlisted are Forever Media classic country WLYI; classic hits-oldies WPKL; classic hits-oldies WKPL; country WOGG; and country WOGI. These five Forever Media stations were unlisted “Holiday” 2019 through March 2020 and reappeared April 2020 through June 2020.

Salt Lake City

Spoken-Word Formats – Reducing May/June’s -1.0 (6.3 – 5.4 – 5.3, 6+) by exactly 50% with a half-share increase to 5.8 (6+), iHeartMedia-owned KNRS “Talk Radio 105.9 – Listen And You’ll Know” jumps from seventh to fifth. Four consecutive sweeps without a loss garnered KNRS a +2.2 (4.1 – 5.0 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 6.3, 6+). It leapfrogs Bonneville’s KSL “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM,” which is down the third time in a row for a collective -3.6 (8.8 – 6.0 – 5.5 – 5.2, sixth to eighth, 6+). A combined +3.9 in March/April (4.9 – 6.0 – 8.8, 6+), KSL had an April-only stay at #1. Repeating at #21, Cumulus Media-owned KKAT “860 AM – Utah’s Big Talker” has its 6+ AQH share reduced by exactly 50% (-.5) as a result of three down or flat moves in a row (1.0 – .7 – .5 – .5, 6+). KKAT had more than tripled (+.7) its 6+ AQH share through four straight sweeps without a loss (.3 – .6 – .8 – .8 – 1.0, 6+).

After an approximately three-year hiatus from appearing in print, Larry H. Miller Communications Corporation sports talk KZNS “The Zone” resurfaced in June with a .6 (#19, 6+) and repeats those stats in July.

After picking up three-tenths in June (2.0 – 2.3, 6+), University of Utah public radio news/talk KUER slips one-tenth to 2.2 (6+) but continues at #15. KUER was down nine-tenths in April/May (2.9 – 2.4 – 2.0, 6+). Brigham Young University public radio news/talk KUMT replicates June’s AQH share and market rank (.5, #21, 6+).

Salt Lake City Music Formats – Classic hits-oldies outlets occupied Salt Lake City’s top two spots in June. That’s the case in July as well, but the stations swap places. Over and above being a collective +1.9 in three straight spikes (5.3 – 5.9 – 6.6 – 7.2, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KODJ “94.1 Salt Lake’s Greatest Hits” marches from second to first. This (7.2) represents its strongest 6+-stat in over a year (7.4, June 2019). Meanwhile, a combined -1.5 in June/July (8.1 – 7.7 – 6.6, 6+), Bonneville’s KRSP “103.5 The Arrow” segues from first to second. June’s loss interrupted three straight improvements that accounted for a +2.2 (5.9 – 6.3 – 6.4 – 8.1, 6+). The alternating down/up pattern by Cumulus Media CHR KENZ “Power Utah’s New Hit Music” includes July’s increase of eight-tenths: 3.6 – 3.1 – 3.5 – 3.2 – 4.0 (#13 to #11, 6+). Its country cluster-mate, KUBL “K-Bull 93 FM,” logs its third straight sweep without a loss for a net gain of nine-tenths (4.7 – 4.7 – 5.1 – 5.6, eighth to sixth, 6+). A collective +2.0 in six straight sweeps without a loss (3.7 – 4.5 – 4.8 – 5.3 – 5.4 – 5.7 – 5.7, 6+), independent KSOP-FM “Z-104 Utah’s #1 Country Station” forfeits two-tenths to 5.5 (fifth to seventh, 6+). June’s 5.7 was its highest 6+-stat since last August’s 5.8. Off three-tenths in May/June (3.9 – 3.9 – 3.6, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KAAZ notches a +.6 to 4.2 (6+), enabling “Rock 106.7” to reenter the top ten (#11 to #9). Hot AC cluster-mate KJMY “My-99.5” is a combined -1.6 in June/July (4.7 – 4.3 – 3.1, 6+) and exits the top ten (#10 to #14). CHR sibling KZHT “Salt Lake’s #1 Hit Music Station” continues an alternating up/down sequence that’s within 4.2 – 4.7 range (6+) each time and includes July’s half-share decrease: 4.6 – 4.2 – 4.6 – 4.3 – 4.7 – 4.2 (flat at #9, 6+). Unlisted the 20^th sweep in a row are Broadway Media-owned adult hits KYMV; alternative KXRK; CHR KUDD; country KEGA; and rhythmic CHR KUUU.

Las Vegas

Spoken-Word Formats – Tied in March (2.1, 6+), then separated by three-tenths of a share (6+) the next three months, Entercom-owned KXNT “News Talk Radio 840” and Beasley Media Group news/talk KDWN “AM 720 Where Las Vegas Comes to Talk” are within one-tenth of each other. Since the March report, KXNT is trending 3.2 – 2.8 – 2.5 – 2.4 (#16 to #18, 6+), while KDWN is 2.9 – 2.5 – 2.2 – 2.3 (#19 to #20, 6+).

Unchanged at #29, Lotus Communications sports talk KWWN “ESPN Radio 1100” has its AQH share split in half (.8 – .4 – .4, 6+).

Having been an overall +1.3 through three straight improvements (2.6 – 3.1 – 3.3 – 3.9, 6+), Nevada Public Radio news/talk KNPR is -1.0 in June/July (3.9 – 3.7 – 2.9, 6+) and fades from the top ten (#7 to #13).

Las Vegas Music Formats – Stuck on 1.8 (6+) in May and June, Entercom alternative KXTE “X-107.5” erupts with a +.8 to 2.6, its strongest 6+-showing since January (2.6, as well) and cracks the top twenty (#21 to #16). Posting July 2020 gains of six-tenths each are iHeartMedia adult contemporary KSNE “Sunny 106.5 – Better Music For A Better Workday” (6.1 – 6.7, steady at #2, 6+) and Lotus Communications’ KXPT “97.1 The Point #1 For Classic Rock” (sixth to third). “Sunny” erases half of June’s -1.2, a decline responsible for dropping “Sunny” from #1 to #2. Immediately prior to June, KSNE held (or shared) the top spot seven successive survey periods. Its May increase of six-tenths to 7.3 (6+) curtailed at four a consecutive string of decreases that resulted in an overall -.8.6 (15.3 – 8.6 – 7.1 – 7.0 – 6.7, 6+). “Holiday” 2019’s 15.3 is the highest 6+-share by any Las Vegas station in the PPM-era. The rollercoaster ride continues for “The Point,” which has been: +.2.6 (January/February); -1.6 (March); +.5 (April); -.5 (May); -.6 (June); and +.6 (July). While it is off two-tenths after June’s robust +1.5 (6.4 – 7.9 – 7.7, 6+), Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies outlet KKLZ “96.3 Hits of the 80s and More” repeats at #1. KKLZ was a combined +1.7 in May/June (6.2 – 6.4 – 7.9, 6+) and recorded its strongest 6+-stat (7.9) since last December (8.1). Up six-tenths in May/June (4.4 – 4.5 – 5.0, 6+), Faith Communications contemporary Christian KSOS “SOS Radio” surrenders eight-tenths to 4.2 (third to fourth, 6+). Faltering by seven-tenths each are Lotus Communications Spanish adult hits KWID “La Buena 101.9” (4.6 – 3.9, fourth to sixth, 6+) and co-owned KOMP “92.3 The Rock Station” (3.2 – 2.5, #11 to #17, 6+). By recording a June increase of six-tenths, “La Buena” applied the brakes to four consecutive downturns that resulted in a -1.2 (5.2 – 5.0 – 4.5 – 4.3 – 4.0, 6+). Conversely, when KOMP lost four-tenths this time last month, it suspended five straight spikes that more than doubled (+1.9) its 6+ AQH share (1.7 – 2.0 – 2.1 – 2.3 – 2.9 – 3.6, 6+). Finishing at eighth and ninth, respectively, are Beasley Media Group hot AC KVGS “Star 107.9” (3.5, -.1, flat at #8, 6+) and Entercom’s similarly-formatted KMXB “Mix 94.1” (3.4, +.4, #13 to #9, 6+). Star was up three-tenths in May/June (3.3 – 3.5 – 3.6, 6+), while “Mix” halts at four its consecutive string of down or flat reports that accounted for a -2.7 (5.7 – 5.5 – 3.2 – 3.0 – 3.0, 6+).

Orlando

Spoken-Word Formats – Flat at #8, iHeartMedia-owned news/talk WTKS is a collective -2.6 in three drops in a row (6.7 – 6.0 – 4.5 – 4.1, 6+); “Real Radio 104.1 – We Say What We Want” was +2.3 in March/April (4.4 – 5.1 – 6.7, 6+). Approximately 11 days into the July survey period (6/29), Cox Media Group’s WDBO-FM “News 96.5” became Spanish contemporary WOEX “Exitos 96.5.” Its news/talk programming shifted to WDBO-AM, where “Orlando’s News Talk” replaces sports talk “ESPN 580 Orlando,” which had lost eight-tenths in five straight down or flat trends (1.4 – 1.2 – 1.0 – .6 – .6 – .6, 6+). WDBO-AM’s signal is simulcast on FM translator W297BB (107.3 FM). While it is off the third time in succession for a -1.3 (2.8 – 2.2 – 1.6 – 1.5, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WFLF “News Radio Orlando” continues at #17.

After trending .9 – .8 – .9 (6+), iHeartMedia-owned WYGM “FM 96.9 The Game – Orlando’s Sports Leader” gains three-tenths to 1.2 (#20, 6+).

Including its current increase of one-tenth, Community Communications’ news/talk WMFE “90.7 Public Radio for Central Florida” continues an alternating down/up pattern that began in December (3.0 – 2.6 – 3.3 – 3.2 – 3.3 – 2.8 – 3.2 – 2.3 – 2.4, #14 to #13, 6+).

Orlando Music Formats – Rarely does a station’s internet stream post a +1.0, but such is the case with Cox Media Group’s country-formatted WWKA (1.2 – 2.2, #20 to #16, 6+). The previous (6+) high for WWKA’s internet stream was 1.6 this past January. The FM signal itself garnered a cumulative +3.6 via six consecutive spikes (2.9 – 3.9 – 4.1 – 5.0 – 5.7 – 5.8 – 6.5, 6+), but “K-92.3 Orlando’s #1 For New Country” slips one-tenth to 6.4 (third to fourth, 6+). Ever since reappearing in print in January, Entravision’s WNUE “Salsa 98.1” has tripled (+1.6) its 6+ AQH share via six successive upticks and elevates from #15 to #13 (.8 – 1.1 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.9 – 2.1 – 2.4, 6+). Meanwhile, iHeartMedia-owned WRUM “Rumba 100.3” (steady at #2) is up six-tenths in June/July (6.2 – 6.7 – 6.8), logging its best 6+-showing (6.8) since “Holiday” 2019’s 6.9. Winning ways continue for Entercom classic hits-oldies WOCL, which is +3.7 in three significant bumps in a row and hits double-digits (6.4 – 7.4 – 9.3 – 10.1, 6+). In addition, “105.9 Sunny FM – We Own The ‘80s” repeats at #1. This current positive streak directly follows three drops in a row that accounted for a -2.8 (9.2 – 8.4 – 8.2 – 6.4, 6+). On top in January, February, and March, WOCL was +1.2 (January) and -.8 (February). In four consecutive reports without a loss, co-owned WQMP “FM 101.9 Orlando’s New Alternative” gains nine-tenths (2.6 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.5 – 3.5, #13 to #11, 6+) and has its best 6+-stat since last September (3.5, as well). Cox Media Group-owned urban AC WCFB “Star 94.5” was +4.3 in three straight jumps (4.6 – 5.0 – 6.9 – 8.9, 6+); -3.0 in May/June (8.9 – 6.5 – 5.9, 6+); and is now +.5 in July (5.9 – 6.4, sixth to fourth, 6+). “Star” had an April-only stay at #1. Not only does a whopping -1.4 send Entercom hot AC WOMX below a three-share (4.2 – 2.8, 6+), “Mix 105.1” exits the top ten (#10 to #12). After logging a collective +2.1 in five straight gains (3.0 – 3.5 – 3.7 – 4.6 – 4.8 – 5.1, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WJRR “101.1 Orlando’s Rock Station” regresses by six-tenths in back-to-back reports (5.1 – 4.5 – 3.9, eighth to ninth, 6+). Dropping six-tenths as well is University of Central Florida’s WUCF (1.3, #16 to #19, 6+); “89.9 Jazz & More” was up nine-tenths in May/June (1.0 – 1.6 – 1.9, 6+). Despite being +2.6 in three straight sweeps without a loss (3.4 – 4.8 – 6.0 – 6.0, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMGF “Magic 107.7” backslides from fifth to sixth. On top in December 2019 (9.4, 6+) and “Holiday” 2019 (15.4, 6+), WMGF was then -12.0 through four straight downturns (15.4 – 8.1 – 7.9 – 5.7 – 3.4, 6+). JVC Media’s WOTW “103.1 The Wolf – New Country + All Time Favorites,” which was trending 1.1 – 1.2 – 1.3 (October – November – December, 6+), is unlisted the seventh time in a row.

Cincinnati

Spoken-Word Formats – While it repeats in the runner-up slot, iHeartMedia’s heritage news/talk WLW is down the third time in a row for a collective -3.7 (12.9 – 10.3 – 9.4 – 9.2, 6+). This directly follows four straight gains that netted a +5.8 (7.1 – 8.1 – 8.3 – 10.1 – 12.9, 6+). Co-owned WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station” was +.8 (May); -.7 (June); and is now +.4 (3.6 – 4.0, tenth to eighth, July, 6+). Directly prior to April, WKRC was +1.2 through three successive sweeps without a loss (2.6 – 3.3 – 3.8 – 3.8, 6+).

Continuing an alternating down/up sequence which includes its current increase of three-tenths, sports talk cluster-mate WCKY “Cincinnati’s ESPN 1530” climbs from #22 to #21 (1.1 – .8 -1.0 – .5 – .6 – .4 – .7, 6+). Co-owned WSAI “Fox Sports 1360” repeats June’s AQH share and market rank (.1, #24, 6+).

A combined +.6 in June/July (1.8 – 2.1 – 2.4, 6+), Cincinnati Public Radio news/talk WVXU continues at #16.

Cincinnati Music Formats – After being without an increase four sweeps in succession for a -2.1 (11.3 – 10.1 – 10.0 – 9.2, 6+), Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WGRR stacks a July +1.0 onto June’s +.9 (9.2 – 10.1 – 11.1, 6+); “103.5 Cincinnati’s Greatest Hits” repeats at #1. WGRR was on top in January 2020 and February 2020, as well as reaching #1 in eight of 2019’s 13 ratings periods. Prior to posting a January +2.8, “Cincinnati’s Greatest Hits” lost a collective nine-tenths in three consecutive down or flat moves (9.4 – 9.3 – 8.5 – 8.5, 6+). Adult contemporary cluster-mate WRRM “Warm 98.5” is an overall +2.0 in three straight upticks (4.4 – 5.2 – 5.7 – 6.4, fifth to fourth, 6+). Four consecutive declines by “Warm” led to an overall -8.7 (13.1 – 6.2 – 5.5 – 5.1 – 4.4, 6+). In “Holiday” 2019, WRRM jumped from third to first. It was a combined +7.6 in December/“Holiday” 2019 (5.5 – 6.9 – 13.1, 6+), with 13.1 its highest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2018’s 14.6. After doubling May’s +.6 with a June +1.2 (4.0 – 4.6 – 5.8, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WKRQ “Q-102 Cincinnati’s Hit Music” erodes by -1.0 to 4.8 (fourth to seventh, 6+). Its May/June +1.8 followed three straight decreases that led to a -2.2 (6.2 – 6.1 – 5.7 – 4.0, 6+). On the heels of its half-share June increase (7.3 – 7.8, 6+), co-owned WUBE “B-105 Get Your Country On” forfeits seven-tenths to 7.1 (6+) but remains in third-place. “B-105” lost eight-tenths in March/April (7.5 – 6.9 – 6.7, 6+) and notched a May gain of six-tenths. Up a full-share in April/May (1.9 – 2.8 – 2.9, 6+), Cincinnati Public Radio’s WGUC “Classical 90.9” falters by -1.4 in June/July (2.9 – 2.1 – 1.5, #16 to #17, 6+). When iHeartMedia CHR WKFS notched a June increase of four-tenths, it curtailed four straight sweeps without an increase that resulted in a -.9 (3.8 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 2.9 – 2.9, 6+). In July, however, “Kiss 107.1” forfeits one-half share (3.3 – 2.8, #13 to #14, 6+). In three consecutive increases, Cumulus Media-owned classic rock WOFX was +1.2 (4.0 – 4.2 – 4.6 – 5.2, 6+), but “92.5 The Fox” slips two-tenths to 5.0 (seventh to sixth, 6+). In June, it crossed the five-share level (5.2) for the first time since last October’s 5.0.

Cleveland

Spoken-Word Formats – Although remaining in fifth-place, iHeartMedia news/talk WTAM “1100 Cleveland’s News Radio” sputters the third time in a row for a -2.2 (8.8 – 7.7 – 7.1 – 6.6, 6+). This follows a collective +4.6 through four straight spikes (4.2 – 5.3 – 5.8 – 7.2 – 8.8, 6+).

Off six-tenths in June/July (2.7 – 2.2 – 2.1, 6+), Entercom’s WKRK remains at #14. In May, “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” gained three-tenths to halt three consecutive decreases that accounted for an approximately 52% loss (-2.5) of its 6+ AQH share (4.9 – 3.6 – 3.2 – 2.4, 6+).

Three decreases in a row by Ideastream-owned public radio news/talk WCPN resulted in a -1.9 (5.2 – 4.8 – 3.9 – 3.3, 6+), but it answers with a July increase of one-half share to 3.8 (#12 to #11, 6+). Prior to the just concluded negative streak, WCPN logged three consecutive gains that netted a +2.1 (3.1 – 4.2 – 4.4 – 5.2, 6+).

Cleveland Music Formats – Responding to April’s -1.7 with three successive spikes that deliver a +1.7 (6.8 – 7.5 – 8.2 – 8.5, 6+), iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WMJI progresses from fourth to second. “Majic 105.7” was a combined +1.3 in February/March (7.2 – 8.3 – 8.5, 6+). By duplicating June’s +.6 (2.8 – 3.4 – 4.0, 6+), CHR cluster-mate WAKS “96.5 Kiss-FM Cleveland’s #1 Hit Music Station” enters the top ten (#11 to #10, 6+). Albeit unchanged at #7, co-owned adult hits WHLK “106.5 The Lake We Play Anything” is a combined +1.9 in three straight gains (4.4 – 4.8 – 5.8 – 6.3, 6+). Steady in eighth-place, Entercom hot AC WQAL “Q-104” is without a loss the third straight time for a +1.4 (4.3 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 5.7, 6+). Following eight straight sweeps without a loss that generated a +4.0 (7.0 – 7.2 – 7.2 – 7.6 – 8.0 – 9.1 – 10.1 – 10.2 -11.0, 6+), co-owned WNCX “98.5 Cleveland’s Classic Rock” drops two-tenths to 10.8 (6+) but is #1 the fifth time in a row. June’s 11.0 is its highest 6+-stat in the PPM-era. Its three previous bests (all in a row) were 10.2 (May 2020, 6+); 10.1 (April 2020, 6+) and 9.1 (March 2020, 6+). Immediately after gaining nine-tenths, Radio One urban AC WZAK plummets -1.3 (9.0 – 7.7, second to fourth, 6+). May’s increase of eight-tenths took WZAK to the eight-share level (7.3 – 8.1, 6+) for the first time since last September (8.2).

Kansas City

Spoken-Word Formats – After having logged a +1.4 in May (5.4 – 6.8, 6+), Entercom news/talk KMBZ-FM “98.1 News-Traffic-Weather” is -2.5 in June/July (6.8 – 5.5 – 4.3, seventh to tenth, 6+). Co-owned KMBZ-AM, which was -1.0 in May, repeats June’s 2.8 (6+); “Talk 980” slips from #14 to #16. Flat at #20, Cumulus Media’s KCMO-AM “Talk Radio 710 AM” is down or flat the fifth straight time for a net loss of three-tenths (1.4 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.1, 6+).

Down four-tenths this time last month (3.0 – 2.6, 6+), Union Broadcasting’s WHB “Sports Radio 810” recaptures three-tenths to 2.9 (#17 to #14, 6+). After losing two-thirds (-2.0) of its 6+ AQH share in five successive slips (3.0 – 2.6 – 1.8 – 1.4 – 1.3 – 1.0, 6+), Entercom-owned KCSP “610 Sports Radio” ends the slide with a one-tenth pickup to 1.1 (#21 to #20, 6+).

With June/July’s +1.4 (3.1 – 3.6 – 4.5, #11 to #9, 6+), University of Missouri news/talk KCUR nearly negates April/May’s -1.7 (4.8 – 3.5 – 3.1, 6+).

Kansas City Music Formats – The largest (6+) June 2020 – July 2020 increase (+1.7) by any station in these 12 PPM-markets is turned in by Steel City Media CHR KMXV, which nearly doubles (+2.9) its 6+ AQH share in three straight upticks (3.0 – 3.4 – 4.2 – 5.9, ninth to fourth, 6+). “Mix 93.3” is bouncing back after being down three sweeps in a row for a -1.1 (4.1 – 3.7 – 3.6 – 3.0, 6+). Displaying increases of eight-tenths each are KMXV cluster-mate KFKF “Country 94.1” (7.1, fourth to third, 6+) and University of Northwestern St. Paul contemporary Christian KJNW “Life 88.5” (4.2, #13 to #11). In May/June, “Country 94.1” was -4.1 (10.4 – 6.5 – 6.3, 6+), while “Life 88.5” was +1.4 in that same period (2.0 – 2.4 – 3.4, 6+). Entercom’s country-formatted WDAF “106.5 The Wolf” continues an alternating up/down pattern that began last November and includes July’s +.2: 3.8 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 5.0 – 4.8 – 5.7 – 4.6 – 5.8 – 5.7 – 5.9 (sixth to fourth, 6+). The tie at #1 between Cumulus Media classic rock and classic hits-oldies siblings is broken: KCFX “101 The Fox Kansas City’s Classic Rock Station” gains two-tenths (8.2 – 8.4, 6+) to take sole possession of the lead, while KCMO-FM “94.9 Kansas City’s Greatest Hits” regresses by nine-tenths (8.2 – 7.3, 6+) and shifts to the runner-up slot. Even though “The Fox” spiraled by -1.0 (8.7 – 7.7, May 2020, 6+), it advanced to #1. KCFX was -1.0 (March); +1.1 (April); -1.0 (May); and +.5 (June). Following four successive downturns that resulted in a -5.9 (12.8 – 10.0 – 9.0 – 8.6 – 6.9, 6+), KCMO-FM notched +.7 in May. A combined +4.2 in December/“Holiday” 2019 (8.6 – 9.3 – 12.8, 6+), “Kansas City’s Greatest Hits” spent four consecutive sweeps on top before shifting to third in April. Recent (6+) KCMO-FM fluctuations include: +3.5 (“Holiday” 2019); -2.8 (January 2020); -1.0 (February); -1.7 (April); +.7 (May); +.6 (June); and -.9 (July). Cluster-mate KCJK “105.1 The X – Kansas City’s Rock Alternative,” which was +2.1 in May/June (1.4 – 2.2 – 3.5, 6+), surrenders approximately half that windfall (2.4, -1.1,#12 to #17). This directly follows an overall -1.2 as a result of eight straight sweeps without an increase, (2.6 – 2.5 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.4, 6+). In an alternating down/up pattern that includes July’s -.8, Entercom-owned KQRC is: 3.4 – 4.1 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 2.9 (6+), as “98.9 The Rock” falls below a three-share and exits the top ten (#10 to #14). A combined -1.0 in June/July (6.9 – 6.5 – 5.9, third to fourth, 6+), Carter Broadcast Group urban contemporary KPRS “Hot 103 Jamz” has its lowest 6+-stat (5.9) since January (4.9).

Columbus

Spoken-Word Formats – After logging a -3.0 in May/June (10.6 – 9.0 – 7.6, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WTVN answers with a half-share July spike to 8.1 (6+) and carries on in the runner-up slot. “News Radio 610” immediately prior was a collective +4.6 as a result of five successive increases (6.0 – 6.1 – 8.0 – 8.6 – 9.4 – 10.6, 6+).

Substituting June’s -.7 with a July +.7 (3.6 – 2.9 – 3.6, 6+), Tegna’s WBNS-FM “Sports Radio 97.1 The Fan” remains in eighth-place. WBNS-FM was -1.7 in March/April (5.2 – 4.8 – 3.5, 6+). Co-owned/similarly formatted WBNS-AM, which recorded a .1 (6+) in back-to-back reports; was unlisted in May; returned in June with a .2; and now replicates that .2 and #16 finish (6+).

An alternating up/down pattern that Ohio State University public radio news/talk WOSU initiated in January 2020 includes July’s increase of two-tenths: 4.3 – 4.0 – 4.4 – 4.1 – 4.4 – 3.9 – 4.1 (fifth to sixth, 6+).

Columbus Music Formats – After posting an April – May – June topline of 3.7 – 3.9 – 3.7 (6+), One Connection Media Group contemporary Christian WCVO “104.9 The River Uplifting & Encouraging” breaks out a +.7 and crosses the four-share level (4.4, seventh to fifth, 6+). Ups/downs continue for iHeartMedia CHR WNCI “97.9 Columbus’ #1 Hit Music Station,” which was +1.2 (6.1 – 7.2 – 7.3, January/February, 6+); -1.8 (7.3 – 6.7 – 5.5, March/April, 6+); +1.1 (5.5 – 6.6, May 6+); -.3 (6.6 – 6.3, June, 6+); and is +.4 (6.3 – 6.7, flat at #3, July, 6+). On top the eighth time in a row, co-owned WCOL “92.3 Columbus’ #1 For New Country” follows June’s +1.1 with a -.8 (9.5 – 10.6 – 9.8, 6+). A May decrease halted four consecutive improvements that yielded a +3.4 (7.7 – 9.8 -10.2 -10.5 – 11.1, 6+). Following 25 consecutive ratings periods on top, WCOL segued to #3 in “Holiday” 2019. WCOL has been: -1.1 (December 2019); -2.1 (“Holiday” 2019); +2.1 (January 2020); -1.6 (May 2020); +1.1 (June); and -.8 (July). Forfeiting six-tenths each are WCOL’s adult hits and urban-rhythmic oldies siblings WODC “93.3 The Bus We Play Anything” (5.6, flat at #4, 6+) and WYTS “Throwback 105.3” (flat at #11). Owing to three straight spikes, “The Bus” netted a +1.7 (4.5 – 5.7 – 5.9 – 6.2, 6+) and had its best 6+-stat (6.2) since “Holiday” 2019’s 9.4. WYTS is down seven-tenths in June/July (1.9 – 1.8 – 1.2, 6+). This is the seventh month in a row that these four Saga Communications stations are unlisted: adult contemporary WSNY “Sunny 95,” which had a “Holiday” 2019-only stay at #1; WLVQ “Iconic Rock Q-96 FM”; hot AC WVMX “Mix 107.9”; and classic hits-oldies WNND “Rewind 103.5 & 104.3.”

Category: Ratings Takeaways

September 2020 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round Four

September 2020 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round Three

September 2020 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round Two

September 2020 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round One

August 2020 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round Four

August 2020 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round Three

August 2020 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round Two

August 2020 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round One

July 2020 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round Four

July 2020 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round Three

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Category: Ratings Takeaways

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