Tag: "Armen Williams"

Friday, January 4, 2019

KABC, Los Angeles Unveils New Talk Show Lineup. With last month’s departure of longtime morning personality Doug McIntyre from the lineup, there was a hole to be filled in the KABC, Los Angeles program schedule.  Cumulus Media moves John Phillips and Jillian Barberie from afternoons to host “The Morning Drive” show and fills the afternoon daypart with a live airing of the Westwood One-syndicated Ben Shapiro show (two radio hours plus his podcast) from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, effective Monday (1/7).  Additionally, WMAL-AM/FM, Washington talk host Larry O’Connor will host the 10:00 am to 12:00 noon program and Leeann Tweeden moves from mornings to middays to co-host “Dr. Drew Midday Live” with Dr. Drew Pinsky, taking the place of current co-host Lauren Sivan.  Finally, Peter Tilden returns to his early evening program airing from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm.  KABC operations director Drew Hayes comments, “Ben Shapiro has become the voice of his generation, delivering fact-based, fearless analysis of the issues challenging America.  We are thrilled to welcome Ben to afternoon drive on KABC, in his hometown.  He will fit right in with our reloaded lineup: John and Jillian now waking up SoCal, Leeann teaming with Dr. Drew, Peter Tilden for the extended commute home, and Larry O’Connor, who will energize middays.”

Dave Ramsey Show a Top Podcast in 2018.  According to data from Apple, the podcast edition of the nationally syndicated Dave Ramsey radio show (airing on more than 600 stations across the country) was the fifth most-downloaded podcast of 2018.  Ramsey Media senior vice president Brian Mayfield says, “It’s significant.  Just as our audience continues to grow on terrestrial radio, a whole new generation of listeners has joined us on the digital side.  We couldn’t be happier.”  Dave Ramsey comments, “We’ve always determined success based on how many people are getting helped.  The podcast allows people to listen where they want and when they want. And that means they can take control of the money and improve their lives.  It’s awesome.”

WBAL, Baltimore Adds New Midday Show; Moves Hollander to PM Drive. The afternoon news block is gone from Hearst’s news/talk WBAL-AM, Baltimore “NewsRadio 1090 and FM 101.5” and the Brett Hollander show moves to the 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm daypart.  Simultaneously, weekend personality Yuripzy Morgan moves to the daily 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm slot.  WBAL president and general manager Cary Pahigian states, “Insightful talk and analysis, aggressive news coverage, and a staff that understands Baltimore and Maryland has been WBAL’s calling card for 93 years.”

Gene Rossi Program Debuts on WJFN-FM, Richmond.  Tomorrow (1/5), the Gene Rossi show debuts on news/talk WJFN-FM, Richmond, Virginia. The station is operated by nationally syndicated talk show host John Fredericks – whose program airs from 6:00 am to 10:00 am on the station. Fredericks has created a lineup of talk shows dedicated to Virginia-oriented political talk from across the ideological spectrum.  Gene Rossi is a Northern Virginia-based attorney in private practice with a national law firm.  He spent nearly three decades as an assistant U.S. attorney in the Eastern District of Virginia.  In 2017, he was a Democratic candidate for Virginia lieutenant governor and currently teaches constitutional law at George Mason University and trial advocacy at Harvard Law School.   Fredericks says, “The addition of ‘The Gene Rossi Show’ to the WJFN programming lineup is an exciting development for the listening public that also demonstrates our commitment to bringing diverse voices and perspectives to the airwaves. Gene has been an insightful guest on my show over the years and I look forward to listening to him as the host of his own show on our growing news/talk network.”

Armen Williams Appointed PD for KILT-AM and KIKK-AM in Houston. Sports radio pro Armen Williams is the new program director at Entercom’s sports talk duo KILT-AM “SportsRadio 610” and KIKK-AM “CBS Sports Radio 650.”  Williams was most recently PD at Bonneville’s KKFN, Denver “104.3 The Fan.”  He takes over for the recently departed Ryan McCreddden.  Entercom Houston SVP and market manager Sarah Frazier says, “Armen is a born leader and we know that he is the right person to guide ‘SportsRadio’ forward.  His passion, enthusiasm and strategic thinking will help take us to the next level of Houston sports talk.”

Kathy Byerly Named GM at Neuhoff Decatur. Sales and management pro Kathy Byerly is promoted to vice president and general manager for Neuhoff Media’s Decatur, Illinois station group that includes award-wining news/talk outlet WSOY-AM and sports talk WDZ-AM, as well as three music-formatted stations.  Byerly has been serving as director of sales and associate GM for the cluster.  Byerly comments, “I’m thrilled to be leading a team that has proven time and again the core values of our company: grit, community, innovation and excellence.  Every day we are winning for our listeners, clients, community, and resetting the bar for what a local media company looks like in our local market.”

TALKERS News Notes. In Kansas City, KCMO-AM adds Westwood One’s Ben Shapiro to the program schedule in afternoon drive, replacing the Phil Valentine show that ended its syndication run (Valentine still hosts his afternoon drive show on WWTN-FM, Nashville).  KCMO program director Pete Mundo tells TALKERS, “Our ability to have my local AM drive show with Ben in PM drive gives us two conservative millennials to bring more youth to the news talk radio space.  We’re excited!”…..Houmatoday.com reports that talk radio host Moon Griffon – independently syndicated daily across the state of Louisiana to some 10 affiliates – is being added to the WJBO, Baton Rouge lineup for a Saturday program.  Griffon tells LaPolitics, “I’m tickled to death. We think that we need to be there. I feel like our program talks more about what goes on in Baton Rouge, at the Capitol and in the governor’s office, more than anybody else.”…..It’s the end of an era at Townsquare Media’s WOBM, Lakewood Township, New Jersey as Marianne Levy exits the station.  She joined WOBM in 1997 with her late husband Bob Levy.  Their show wrapped in 2015 when Bob Levy semi-retired.  Marianne continued to work for the station until last month, when she was let go…..Bay Area sports play-by-play pro Greg Papa will be calling games for the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers next season on Cumulus Media’s KNBR, San Francisco, the team’s flagship station. Papa previously was play-by-play voice for the Oakland Raiders until exiting that role before the 2018 season.  Papa takes over for Ted Robinson who is now handling community affairs for the 49ers…..After telling his listeners that he’s willing do their laundry for them since he does his nationally syndicated Westwood One program from his basement laundry room, more than one listener took Walter Sterling up on it, including retired Air Force sargent Liz Thomison, who sent her military fatigues to Sterling.  Pictured below is Sterling’s 13-year-old daughter Meredith posing with the clean fatigues.  Sterling comments, “Anyone can say ‘thank you for your service.’  Real gratitude is in the spin cycle.”

William Shatner Guests on New Mancow Program.  Legendary actor William Shatner, pictured above with Erich Mancow Muller, was one of the guests on Mancow’s inaugural morning program on Cumulus Media’s WLS-AM, Chicago yesterday (1/3).  Shatner announced his upcoming debut performance on the Grand Ole Opry, where he’ll be promoting his new country album Why Not Me, recorded with Jeff Cook of the band Alabama.

New Congress and Pelosi House Speaker Top News/Talk Story for Week of December 31-January 4.  The 116^th Congress and Democrat Nancy Pelosi’s return to Speaker of the House was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio during the week, landing atop the Talkers Ten^TM.  At # 2 this week was the border wall battle and the government shutdown.  Coming in at #3 was Mitt Romney’s attacks on President Trump, followed by U.S. military strategy in Syria, Iraq, and Afghanistan at #4.  The Talkers Ten^TM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.  It is published every Friday at Talkers.com.  See this week’s entire chart here.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Programmer James Howard joins iHeartMedia Chicago as senior vice president of programming and PD for CHR WKSC “103.5 KISS FM.” Howard most recently held the same position in the company’s Washington, DC region…..Gone from Cumulus Media’s KKND, New Orleans is the urban AC format and in is classic hits as the station is re-formatted and re-branded “106.7 The Krewe.” The station also unveils its new morning show, “The Spud Show,” hosted by New Orleans icon Spud McConnell.  KKND program director Paul Cannell comments, “What a great way to kick off the New Year!  This 100,000-watt classic hits station, featuring incredible personalities like Spud – and the best music ever made – is sure to be a hit here in New Orleans.”…..Entercom adds two personalities to the morning program on urban contemporary WVEE “V-103.”  Jade Novah and JR will join current morning host Frank Ski, effective January 22. Entercom says that in addition to their morning show duties, Novah and JR will create content for V-103’s digital platforms.  Novah is a singer, songwriter, and actress.  She was vocal producer and mentor on FOX TV’s music competition show, “The Four: Battle for Stardom.”  She also released her debut album, All Blue.  JR most recently was on-air at WFAN, New York “The Fan” and has served with NBC Nonstop TV, CNN Headline News, and Bleacher Report…..Alpha Media Dayton’s urban contemporary WROU adds the Premiere Networks syndicated Steve Harvey show to the station’s program schedule for morning drive…..United Stations Radio Networks announces Audrey Parets is taking over hosting “The Acoustic Storm,” the show created and hosted by her late husband Jeff Parets.  Jeff Parets died unexpectedly in November and USRN says he left behind a great music library, an archive of his program and the wish that his wife continue the show. The new show will debut in February…..Pictured below are some of the country’s top voice over artists at the 10^th – and likely last – Radio Dream Lunch produced by Art Vuolo.  It took place at the home of radio and record memorabilia museum curator Steve Resnik in Shadow Hills, California on December 30. Seen below are (from l-r): Joe Cipriano, Neil Ross, Randy Thomas, Shadoe Stevens, and John Leader.

 

December 2018 PPM Data – Part Three. December 2018 ratings information has been released for Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Orlando, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Columbus. Nielsen Audio’s December 2018 survey period covered November 8 – December 5. See all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here.  Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@Talkers.com) provides his “Takeaways” from these 12-PPM markets.

Portland

Spoken Word Formats – After being within 5.0 – 5.3 range July through November (5.0 – 5.3 – 5.2 – 5.3 – 5.1,  6+), Alpha Media news/talk KXL falters by six-tenths to 4.5 (fourth to seventh, 6+). From June – September, “101 FM News – Stay Connected” was at #5. Locked on 2.2 (6+) in October and November, iHeartMedia’s KEX “News Radio 1190 – Depend On Us” slips two-tenths (2.0, #18 to #19, 6+); 2.2 is its best 6+-showing since August 2016 (2.2, as well). A collective +.3 in October and November (.8 – .9 – 1.1, 6+), Alpha Media news/talk KUFO “Freedom 970” drops one-tenth (1.0, #23 to #24, 6+).

Entercom sports talk KFXX “1080 The Fan” is an overall -1.2 via three straight decreases (2.3 – 1.7 – 1.3 – 1.1, #21 to #22, 6+). Portland’s “Fan” was a collective +.9 in August and September (1.4 – 1.7 – 2.3, 6+). KFXX is now tied with Alpha Media-owned KXTG “The Game,” which (like “The Fan”) is down for the third consecutive month; “The Game” has a cumulative loss of four-tenths in that stretch (1.5 – 1.4 – 1.2 – 1.1, flat at #22, 6+). Meanwhile, after logging three increases in a row for a +.3 (.4 – .5 – .5 – .7, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KPOJ “Sports Radio 620” – the flagship of the Portland Trailblazers – forfeits one-tenth (.6 #25 to #27, 6+).

Notwithstanding that it is without a loss for the fifth time in a row for a collective +1.2 (8.1 – 8.1 – 8.2 – 8.9 – 9.2 – 9.3, 6+) and has its best 6+-stat (9.3) since March 2018 (9.5), Oregon Public Broadcasting news/talk KOPB segues from first to second. KOPB had been on top from January 2018 to August 2018 (including a tie in April), before dropping to second in September. Earlier, it was +1.1 (January 2018); -1.1 (February); +1.0 (March); -1.0 (April); -.5 (May); and +.7 (October). Its internet stream gains one-half share (.3 – .8, #26, 6+).

Portland Music Formats – Roaring back from November’s loss of six-tenths with a rousing +3.2 (8.2 – 11.4, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary KKCW advances from second to first. “K-103” was #1 in December 2017 (13.0, 6+); “Holiday” 2017 (16.9, 6+); and tied for first (with KOPB) in April 2018 (8.5, 6+). Prior to November 2018, KKCW was a +1.6 via four successive reports without a loss (7.2 – 7.7 -7.9 – 8.8 – 8.8, 6+). In December 2017, “K-103” notched a 13.0 (6+). As a result of three straight upticks (2.4 – 3.0 – 3.6 – 3.8, 6+), Alpha Media-owned KUPL “98.7 The Bull – #1 for New Country” is an overall +1.4 and enters the top ten (#12 to #9). In advance of the October sweep, “The Bull” was -1.6 in three straight months without an increase (4.0 – 4.0 – 3.9 – 2.9 – 2.4, 6+). Even though Entercom’s similarly-formatted KWJJ is a cumulative -1.2 in six straight down or flat trends (4.6 – 4.6 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.5 – 3.4, 6+), “99.5 The Wolf – The Northwest’s Hottest Country” advances from #13 to #11. A collective -1.7 in October and November (5.8 – 4.4 – 4.1, 6+), Alpha Media triple A KINK “101.9 Uniquely Portland” erases seven-tenths of that loss in December (4.8, ninth to sixth, 6+). Four decreases in a row by Entercom-owned KGON accounted for a collective -1.0 (5.6 – 5.4 – 4.8 – 4.7 – 4.6, 6+), but “92.3 Portland’s Classic Rock” counters with a one-half share December increase to 5.1 (sixth to fourth, 6+). Immediately prior to the aforementioned negative streak, KGON had been without a loss four straight times for a +1.6 (4.0 – 4.0 – 4.6 – 5.4 – 5.6, 6+). Conversely, its adult hits sibling – KYCH “97.1 Charlie We Play Everything” – wipes away its October and November +.7 (3.6 – 4.2 – 4.3, 6+) with a December -1.1 (3.2, 6+) and fades from the top ten (#8 to #14). A downturn of eight-tenths (4.1 – 3.3, 6+) sends co-owned alternative KNRK “94.7 Portland Alternative Music” to its lowest 6+-stat since February 2018 (3.3, as well). As the result of four straight negative moves, Mount Hood Community College District jazz outlet KMHD has eroded by one full-share (1.1 – .8 – .7 – .6      – .1, 6+, #34, 6+). Having more than doubled (+2.3) its 6+-stat in four straight up or flat trends (1.7 – 2.5 – 3.0 – 4.0 – 4.0, 6+), Salem Media Group contemporary Christian KFIS “104.1 The Fish” surrenders four-tenths to 3.6 (6+) yet returns to the top ten (#11 to #10). Entering the August sweep, “The Fish” had been down in each of the previous four monthlies for a cumulative -.8 (2.5 – 2.1 – 2.0 – 1.8 – 1.7, 6+).

Charlotte

Spoken-Word Formats – A December loss of six-tenths by Entercom news/talk WBT follows October’s +.9 and November’s +.5 (2.9 – 3.8 – 4.3 – 3.7, 6+), as the flagship of the NFL’s Carolina Panthers exits the top ten (#10 to #12). November’s 4.3 is WBT’s highest 6+-share since February (4.3, as well).

Locked at #19, co-owned sports talk WFNZ “The Fan – Charlotte’s Sports Leader” has nearly tripled (+1.0) its 6+ share as a result of five straight up or flat moves (.6 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.6, 6+). This particular streak follows four straight sweeps without an increase that resulted in a -1.1 (1.7 – 1.7 – 1.1 – .7 – .6, 6+) for the key station of the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets.

Four downward trends in succession by University Radio Foundation news/talk WFAE accounted for a combined -1.6 (4.1 – 3.7 – 3.0 – 2.7 – 2.5, 6+), but “Charlotte’s NPR News Source” repeats November’s 2.7 (#15 to #17, 6+). The July through December topline for South Carolina Educational Television Commission news/talk WNSC is: .5 – .6 – .5 – .7 – .6 – .4 (flat at #20, 6+).

Charlotte Music Formats – Busting out of an August 2018 through November 2018 topline of 5.3 – 5.1 – 5.1 – 5.2 (6+) with a +2.8 to 8.0 (6+), Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WKQC vaults from seventh to first. This time last year, “K-104.7 More Music/Better Variety” notched a 7.0 (6+, December 2017). Progressing by seven-tenths (each) are iHeartMedia adult hits WLKO “102.9 The Lake” and CHR sibling WHQC “Channel 96.1.” Repeating at #2, “The Lake” boasts its eighth straight month without a loss (4.1 – 4.3 – 4.7 – 5.2 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 6.4 – 7.1 – 7.8, 6+) for a whopping +3.7. Meanwhile, “Channel 96.1,” which was a combined +1.3 in September and October (2.7 – 3.5 – 4.0, 6+), completely obliterates November’s -.6 (4.0 – 3.4 – 4.1, 6+) and is back in the top ten (#13 to #10). Additionally, it overtakes Beasley Media Group’s similarly-formatted WNKS “Kiss 95.1,” which is down three-tenths in back-to-back months (4.4 – 4.1 – 3.8, flat at #11, 6+). In five straight decreases, Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WRCM was a collective -1.9 (4.3 – 3.9 – 3.8 – 3.4 – 2.9 – 2.4, 6+), but “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” posts a December improvement of six-tenths (3.0, #17 to #15, 6+). December 2018 proves to be a rough sweep for the market’s two major country FMs: Beasley Media Group’s WSOC “103.7 Country’s Hottest Hits” (7.5 – 6.6, 6+) and iHeartMedia’s WKKT “96.9 The Kat – Charlotte’s #1 for New Country” (6.7 – 5.8, fourth to fifth, 6+) both falter by nine-tenths. On top for the past three months, “Country’s Hottest Hits” segues to third. An October loss of two-tenths ended four straight up or flat reports that netted a +1.5 (6.2 – 6.9 – 6.9 – 7.5 – 7.7, 6+). Prior to August, the last time WSOC reached the seven-share level (6+) was “Holiday” 2016 (7.0). Entering the November sweep, “The Kat” was an overall +1.1 in four successive months without a loss (6.0 – 6.2 – 6.2 – 6.8 – 7.1, 6+). Up (modestly) or flat in each of the last three ratings periods for an overall gain of four-tenths (5.1 – 5.4 – 5.4 – 5.5, 6+), Entercom hot AC WLNK “107.9 The Link – Charlotte’s Best Mix” surrenders eight-tenths (4.7, sixth to seventh, 6+). This marks the third straight slip for iHeartMedia’s WRFX “99.7 The Fox – Charlotte’s Classic Rock” for a collective -1.3 (6.4 – 5.9 – 5.6 – 5.1, fifth to sixth, 6+). Anchored in fourth-place, Beasley Media Group urban AC WBAV “V-101.9” is -2.0 as the result of five straight negative moves (7.9 – 7.6 – 6.9 – 6.1 – 6.0 – 5.9, 6+). “V-101.9” was +1.4 in May; eroded by -1.2 in June; and erased that -1.2 in its entirety in July with a +1.2.

San Antonio

Spoken-Word Formats – A -1.1 to 3.3 (6+) forces iHeartMedia news/talk and San Antonio Spurs’ flagship WOAI “News Radio 1200 – San Antonio’s News, Traffic, & Weather” out of the top ten (#7 to #11). WOAI’s November loss of one-tenth halted at three its consecutive string of improvements that yielded one full-share (3.5 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.5, 6+). October’s 4.5 was its best 6+-showing since April 2017 (4.5, as well). Flat at #22, Alpha Media news/talk KTSA “Stay Connected” has a July 2018 – December 2018 topline of 1.4 – 1.7 – 1.4 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.6 (6+).

Without an increase for the fourth straight month (.7 – .7 – .6 – .5 – .4, 6+), iHeartMedia sports talk KTKR “Ticket 760 – San Antonio’s Sports Station” carries on at #28.

Four consecutive up or flat trends netted KSTX one full-share (2.6 – 3.0 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.6, 6+), but the Texas Public Radio news/talk outlet sputters by four-tenths to 3.2 (flat at #12, 6+).

San Antonio Music Formats – Down (marginally) or flat the past three sweeps for a loss of two-tenths (4.5 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.3, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary KQXT answers with a whopping +5.2 to 9.5 as “Q-101.9” rockets from ninth to first. In December 2017, KQXT notched an 8.7 (6+). Ousted from the top spot after a one-month (November 2018) stay and dropping to third is Cox Media Group-owned KCYY “Y-100 San Antonio’s New Country Leader,” which returns all but one-tenth of November’s +.9 (7.0 – 6.2, -.8, 6+). September’s loss of eight-tenths curtailed three straight gains that accounted for a +1.5 (5.3 – 5.7 – 5.9 – 6.8, 6+). In August, KCYY reached the six-share level (6.8) for the first time since October 2017’s 6.0. Meanwhile, iHeartMedia’s KAJA “KJ-97 San Antonio’s #1 Country Station” improves by +1.0 (5.0 – 6.0, sixth to fourth, 6+) and trails “Y-100” by just two-tenths; “KJ-97” spiraled by -1.1 in October. A loss of seven-tenths takes Alpha Media adult hits KJXK “102.7 Jack FM Playing What We Want” to 4.6 (fifth to seventh, 6+). November’s +.7 by iHeartMedia CHR KXXM “96.1 Now – San Antonio’s #1 Hit Music Station” all but completely dissipates December’s loss of six-tenths (3.7 – 3.1, #11 to #14, 6+). Its one-tenth gain in October interrupted five April through September decreases that accounted for an overall -2.1 (5.0 – 4.9 – 4.4 – 3.7 – 3.3 – 2.9, 6+). On the heels of November’s -1.4, Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies KONO-FM “101.1 San Antonio’s Greatest Hits” is off by an additional one-half share (6.9 – 6.4, 6+) but continues in the runner-up slot. Before slipping to #2 in November, KONO-FM had been on top the previous ten sweeps. When “San Antonio’s Greatest Hits” dropped one-half share in October, it halted at four a consecutive string of increases that yielded a +2.2 (6.6 – 7.0 – 7.7 – 7.8 – 8.8, 6+). In September, KONO-FM reached the eight-share threshold (8.8) for the first time since November 2016’s 8.2. Within 3.0 – 3.5 range (6+) in each of the last six sweeps (3.0 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.5 – 3.2 – 3.3, 6+), Alpha Media regional Mexican KSAH “Norteňo 104.1” slumps by one-half share to 2.8 (#13 to #15, 6+). Faltering by one-half share as well – with each having identical 2.7 – 2.2, #16 to #18 (6+) profiles – are Univision Radio Spanish contemporary KMYO “Latino Mix 95.1” and Alpha Media rhythmic CHR KTFM “Energy 94.1.” December 2018’s 2.2 represents recent lows for KMYO (January 2018, 2.2, as well) and KTFM (2.1, May 2018).

Sacramento

Spoken-Word Formats – Following October’s +1.4 (5.6 – 7.0, 6+) iHeartMedia-owned news/talk KFBK “Sacramento’s News, Weather, and Traffic Station” is a collective -.5 in November and December (7.0 – 6.8 – 6.5, second to fourth, 6+). Immediately prior to the October ratings period, KFBK hadn’t posted an increase in the eight previous reports resulting in an overall -3.0 (8.6 – 8.1 – 8.1 – 7.8 – 6.7 – 6.3 – 6.0 – 6.0 – 5.6, 6+). Co-owned KSTE “Talk 650,” which was a collective +.7 via three consecutive sweeps without a loss (2.3 – 2.6 – 3.0- 3.0, 6+), falters by six-tenths (2.4, flat at #13).

After doubling (+.8) its 6+-share since August (.8 – 1.2 – 1.5 – 1.6, 6+), Entercom’s KIFM-AM surrenders six-tenths in December (1.0, #19 to #22, 6+). Just before this particular streak, “ESPN Radio 1320” lost 50% of its 6+-share (-.8) in three straight decreases (1.6 – 1.4 – 1.1 – .8, 6+). For the third sweep in succession, Bonneville’s KHTK “Sports 1140” is without an increase for an overall loss of four-tenths (1.3, 1.3 – 1.2 – .9, #21 to #25, 6+).

Even though Capital Public Radio news/talk KXJZ tacks on one-half share to November’s +1.1 and is without a loss for the fifth straight time for an overall +2.4 since July (4.5 – 5.1 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 6.4 – 6.9, 6+), it remains at #3. Moreover, this (6.9) is the highest 6+-stat in its PPM-history. Stable at #26, Northern California Public Broadcasting’s KQEI gains one-tenth (.6 – .7, 6+).

Sacramento Music Formats – Rebounding in a huge way from November’s four-tenths’ loss, Entercom adult contemporary KYMX “Mix 96 – Today’s Hits/Yesterday’s Favorites” dials up a +2.6 (6.2 – 8.8, 6+) and advances from fourth to first. This time last year, “Mix 96” recorded an 8.8 (December 2017). Despite picking up one-tenth (8.1 – 8.2, 6+), co-owned KSEG backslides from first to second; “96.9 The Eagle – Sacramento’s Classic Rock” had been on top the past 10 months. A cumulative -1.6 in October and November (9.7 – 9.2 – 8.1, 6+), KSEG had its lowest 6+-share (8.1) since April’s 8.0. “The Eagle” was +1.0 (May); +.9 (June); -.9 (July); +.6 (September); -.5 (October); and -1.1 (November). California’s Capital City has one less country challenger as of early-November (2018). That’s when iHeartMedia transitioned KBEB “92.5 The Bull – #1 for New Country” to adult contemporary “92.5 The Breeze” (2.5 – 2.4, #14 to #13, 6+); KBEB had been up two-tenths in consecutive sweeps (2.1 – 2.3 – 2.5, September-October-November, 6+). Remaining in the country format are Bonneville’s KNCI “New Country 105.1” (steady at #5, 6+) and Entravision Communications-owned KNTY “101.9 The Wolf” (2.0 – 2.3, +.3, #17 to #15, 6+ ). The combined +1.5 by “New Country” in three straight gains (4.2 – 4.3 – 5.1 – 5.7, September-October-November-December, 6+) obliterates its combined -.9 in August and September (5.1 – 4.4 – 4.2, 6+). Meanwhile, this (2.3) is the best 6+-stat for “The Wolf” since June 2018’s 2.5. With a one-half share increase to 1.6 (6+), Capital Public Radio classical KXPR erases in its entirety October and November’s collective -.5 (1.6 – 1.3 – 1.1, 6+) and enters the top twenty at #18. A combined -.8 via three down or flat months in succession (4.2 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 3.4, 6+), Entercom-owned KKDO “Alt 94.7 – Sacramento’s Alternative” picks up two-tenths to 3.6 (6+) and returns to the top ten (#12 to #10); November’s 3.4 was its lowest 6+-share since May (3.4, as well). When KUDL gained six-tenths in November, it took the Entercom CHR to 5.0, its best 6+-showing since May’s 5.6. In December though, “106.5 The End” spirals by nine-tenths (4.1, sixth to eighth, 6+). After being within 2.2 – 2.9 range the past 13 sweeps, Entravision Communications rhythmic CHR KHHM “Hot 103.5” forfeits six-tenths to 1.9 (#14 to #17, 6+).

Pittsburgh

Spoken-Word Formats – Trending 4.6 – 4.5 – 4.7 (October-November-December, 6+), Entercom news/talk KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020” climbs from eighth to seventh with its best 6+-stat (4.7) since February 2018’s 5.3.

After picking up three-tenths in October, co-owned sports talk KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan” regresses by a collective nine-tenths in November and December (6.4 – 5.7 – 5.5, 6+) yet advances from sixth to fifth. “The Fan” was +2.0 in April (5.8 – 7.8, 6+); -2.0 in three straight May – June – July declines (7.8 – 7.4 – 6.5 – 5.8, 6+); +1.4 in August (5.8 – 7.2, 6+); and -1.1 in September. Having posted either a .1 (6+) or a .2 (6+) in each of the previous 19 ratings periods, iHeartMedia sports talk WBGG “970 AM – ESPN Pittsburgh” is up one-tenth to .3 (6+) and stays at #23.

An increase of four-tenths by Essential Public Media news/talk WESA takes “90.5 Pittsburgh’s NPR Station” from #13 to #11 (3.2 – 3.6, 6+).

Pittsburgh Music Formats – The January 2018 through November 2018 (6+) high/low range for Steel City Media adult hits WRRK was 7.9/7.0, but “96.9 Bob FM – We Play Anything” follows November’s one-half share loss with a +1.7 to 8.7 (third to second, 6+). “Bob” has its best 6+-performance in exactly one year (9.0, December 2017). Even though it is an overall +2.4 as the result of four straight positive spikes (5.3 – 5.6 – 6.3 – 6.8 – 7.7, 6+), Renda Broadcasting adult contemporary WSHH “Wish 99.7” remains at #4 with its highest 6+-stat since 10.4 in “Holiday” 2017. At the same time that Forever Media’s WPKL “Oldies Radio – Pickle 99.3” more than doubles its 6+-share  and enters the top twenty (.5 – 1.1, +.6, #20, 6+), co-owned country WOGG “Froggy 94.9” falters by one-half share (1.9 – 1.4, #14 to #16, 6+). Elsewhere in the country format, Entercom-owned WDSY “Y-108” Pittsburgh’s Country” relinquishes four-tenths in consecutive sweeps (4.8 – 4.4 – 4.0, -.4, flat at #9, 6+); iHeartMedia’s WPGB “Big 104.7 – Pittsburgh’s #1 For New Country” has a four-tenths decrease as well (3.7 – 3.3,  #11 to #12, 6+); and WOGG cluster-mate and fellow “Froggy,” WOGI, is up two-tenths (1.0 – 1.2, #20 to #18, 6+). Stuck on 9.5 (6+) in October and November, after October’s loss of seven-tenths, iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWSW “94.5 – 3WS” gains two-tenths to 9.7 (6+) and is on top for the 22^nd consecutive ratings period. Following 11 successive sweeps in the runner-up slot, co-owned rocker WDVE drops to third. Its December loss of one-half share to 8.2 (6+) curtails three straight increases for a +1.0 (7.7 – 8.0 – 8.3 – 8.7, 6+); WDVE was off eight-tenths in August. Co-owned alternative WXDX “105.9 The X” sputters by six-tenths to 4.3 (seventh to eighth, 6+) as the flagship of the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins suspends three straight gains that netted nine-tenths (4.0 – 4.3 – 4.7 – 4.9, 6+).

Salt Lake City

Spoken-Word Formats – Stabilizing after October’s +2.4 and November’s -1.8 with a more modest December loss of two-tenths (5.4 – 5.2, 6+), Bonneville’s KSL progresses from fifth to fourth. November’s 7.2 is its highest 6+-share since April’s 8.1. “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” had a one-month stay (October) at #1; prior to that, the last time KSL reached #1 was in April. Like KSL, iHeartMedia’s KNRS is off two-tenths in December (4.9 – 4.7, 6+) but proceeds from seventh to sixth. “Talk Radio 105.9 – Listen And You’ll Know” was a combined +1.0 in October and November (3.9 – 4.7 – 4.9, 6+) and had its strongest 6+-showing (4.9) since March 2017’s 5.6.

The August 2018 – December 2018 topline for Broadway Media-owned KALL is 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.8 (6+), with “ESPN 700 – Utah’s #1 Sports Talk” cracking the top twenty (#21 to #20). Immediately in advance of that, KALL was an overall +.5 via four consecutive positive or flat moves (1.4 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.9 – 1.9, 6+).

After picking up one-tenth in November, University of Utah news/talk KUER forfeits two-tenths (2.8 – 2.6, #13 to #14, 6+); KUER was a collective -.8 in September and October (3.5 – 3.0 – 2.7, 6+).

Salt Lake City Music Formats – No station in the 36 PPM-markets we’ve analyzed thus far has made a more dramatic (6+) November 2018 – December increase (+7.0) or has a greater December 2018 (6+) AQH share (12.7) than Bonneville adult contemporary KSFI, which marches from third to first. Tied for the lead in August, “FM 100.3 – Better Music/Better Work Day” logged a 13.6 (6+) in December 2017. Its format rival – Cumulus Media adult contemporary KBEE “B-98.7 Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites” – slumps by six-tenths to 3.9 (ninth to tenth, 6+), thus halting three straight gains that netted a +1.8 (2.7 – 3.6 – 4.3 – 4.5, 6+). The rollercoaster ride continues for iHeartMedia-owned classic hits-oldies KODJ “94.1 Salt Lake’s Greatest Hits,” which was -1.1 (October); +1.5 (November); and now -1.4 in December (7.1 – 5.7, #1 to #2, 6+). Previously in calendar year 2018, KODJ held sole possession of the top spot or was tied for the lead in June, July, August, and September. Its gain of three-tenths in September curtailed three straight decreases that accounted for a one-half share loss (6.9 – 6.8 – 6.7 – 6.4, 6+). Nearly erasing in its entirety October and November’s collective -.8 (4.7 – 4.0 – 3.9, 6+), iHeartMedia hot AC KJMY “My 99.5” posts a gain of seven-tenths to 4.6 (6+) and enters the top ten (#11 to #7). As a result, it bypasses Capital Broadcasting’s similarly-programmed KBZN “Now 97.9 – Today’s Best Music” (5.4 – 4.5, -.9, fifth to eighth, 6+). Off eight-tenths (2.4 – 1.6, 6+) Brigham Young University’s KBYU “Classical 89” fades from the top twenty (#18 to #22). Flat at #12, Cumulus Media country KUBL “K-Bull 93” is an overall -2.8 in five consecutive decreases (5.9 – 5.7 – 4.2 – 4.0 – 3.8 – 3.1, 6+). As is the case with “K-Bull,” co-owned KBER “Utah’s Rock Station” falters by seven-tenths in December (2.6 – 1.9, #14 to #19, 6+). On the heels of recording one-half share October – November gains, independent KSOP-FM “Z-104 Utah’s #1 Country” (4.2 – 4.7 – 4.2, eighth to ninth, 6+) and Broadway Media-owned KXRK “X-96 Utah’s Original Alternative” (3.8 – 4.3 – 3.8, #10 to #11, 6+) each regress by one-half share in December.

Las Vegas

Spoken-Word Formats – This marks the fourth occasion in the last five sweeps – and third time in succession -that Entercom’s KXNT posts a 1.9 (1.9 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.9, #21 to #20, 6+). Prior to gaining two-tenths in August, “News Talk Radio 840” had been down or flat the previous three ratings periods for a net loss of four-tenths (2.1 – 2.0 – 1.7 – 1.7, 6+). Meanwhile, after recording a 1.1 (6+) four times in the last seven survey periods (1.1 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.0 – 1.3 – 1.1, 6+), Beasley Media Group news/talk KDWN “AM 720 Where Las Vegas Comes to Talk” drops one-tenth to 1.0 (6+) and remains at #25.

Two-tenths behind KDWN is Lotus Communications sports talk KWWN “ESPN Radio 1100,” which had doubled (+.5) its 6+ share through four up or flat trends (.5 – .6 – .9 – .9 – 1.0, 6+), but falters by two-tenths to .8 (#25 to #26).

An overall +1.3 in six consecutive upticks (2.0 – 2.4 – 2.6 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 3.2 – 3.3, 6+), Nevada Public Radio’s KNPR is off two-tenths in December and departs the top ten (3.1, #10 to #13, 6+).

Las Vegas Music Formats – Not only is iHeartMedia adult contemporary KSNE on top for the fourth month in a row, “Sunny 106.5 Better Music for a Better Workday” posts a +.8 to 9.1, its best 6+-stat since 12.5 in “Holiday” 2017. A year ago, KSNE logged a 10.6 (December 2017, 6+). In calendar year 2018, it has been #1 in March, May, June, July, September, October, November, and December. Erasing November’s six-tenths’ loss with a December gain of the same magnitude, Entercom rhythmic hot AC KXQQ climbs from ninth to seventh (4.2, 6+). Entering the December 2018 sweep, “Q-100.5” was a collective -1.3 in three losses in succession (4.9 – 4.5 – 4.2 – 3.6, 6+). It is a similar story for co-owned hot AC KMXB “Mix 94.1,” which flips November’s -.5 into a December +.6 (5.4 – 6.0, fourth to third, 6+); November’s 5.4 is its lowest 6+-showing since February (5.4, as well). Flat at #15, Beasley Media Group’s similarly formatted KVGS “Star 107.9” is off three-tenths (3.0 – 2.7, 6+). Even though it is without a loss in six straight months for an overall +1.8 (3.7 – 3.9 – 4.5 – 4.9 – 5.0 – 5.5 – 5.5, 6+), Lotus Communications’ KXPT “97.1 The Point – #1 For Classic Rock” backslides from third to fourth; 5.5 is its best 6+-performance in more than two years (5.9, October 2016). Down a combined -1.5 in October and November, Beasley Media Group urban-rhythmic oldies KOAS “Old School 105.7” regains three-tenths in December (4.3 – 4.6, flat at #6, 6+). As it entered the October ratings period, “Old School 105.7” was a cumulative +1.7 through five straight gains (4.1 – 4.3 – 4.7 – 4.9 – 5.1 – 5.8, 6+).

Orlando

Spoken-Word Formats – As a result of five consecutive increases, Cox Media Group news/talk WDBO-FM was an overall +1.9 (3.3 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 4.1 – 5.1 – 5.2, 6+), but “News 96.5” surrenders seven-tenths in December (4.5, eighth to tenth, 6+). November’s 5.2 is its best 6+-performance in more than a year (6.1, September 2017). Meanwhile, iHeartMedia news/talk WTKS “Real Radio 104.1 – We Say What We Want” has lost a collective full-share in four declines in succession (4.7 – 4.6 – 4.5 – 3.9 – 3.7, 6+) and continues at #11. Its +1.0 in August interrupted three straight decreases that resulted in a -1.8 (5.5 – 5.3 – 4.0 – 3.7, 6+). Having nearly doubled (+1.2) its 6+-share as the result of four successive sweeps without a loss (1.5 – 1.5 – 1.9 – 2.1 – 2.7, 6+), news/talk cluster-mate WFLF is now off a combined one-half share in November and December (2.7 – 2.4 – 2.2, #14 to #15, 6+).

Precisely doubling (+.7) its 6+-share via three straight up or flat moves (.7 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.4, 6+), Cox Media Group sports talk WDBO-AM “ESPN 580 Orlando” forfeits eight-tenths (.6, #17 to #23, 6+). It is now tied with iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WYGM “FM 96.9 The Game – Orlando’s Sports Leader,” which has lost roughly half (-.7) of its 6+ AQH share in three consecutive dips (1.3 – 1.1 – .9 – .6, #21 to #23, 6+).

Repeating at #12, Community Communications’ news/talk WMFE “90.7 Public Radio for Central Florida” is in an August 2018 – December 2018 up/down pattern of 3.5 – 4.0 – 3.3 – 3.6 – 3.5 (6+).

Orlando Music Formats – Roaring back from October and November’s collective -.7 (6.5 – 6.0 – 5.8, 6+) with a robust +4.0, iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMGF zooms from sixth to first with its strongest 6+-stat (9.8) since “Holiday” 2017’s 15.9. This time last year, “Magic 107.7” registered a 12.0 (December 2017, 6+). On top the past 11 ratings periods, its Spanish tropical sibling – WRUM “Rumba 100” – stumbles by six-tenths to 8.3 and segues to #2. WRUM’s +.8 in December halted at three a consecutive string of downturns that resulted in an overall -3.5 (11.6 – 10.1 – 8.2 – 8.1, 6+). April 2017’s 12.8 is the best-ever 6+-share in the station’s PPM-history. The last time “Rumba” wasn’t #1 was “Holiday” 2017 when “Magic” set the pace. Spiraling by nine-tenths is co-owned CHR WXXL (8.2 – 7.3, second to third, 6+). A one-half share September increase by “XL-106.7 Orlando’s #1 Hit Music Station” halted three downward moves in a row that accounted for a collective -1.7 (8.9 – 8.4 – 7.8 – 7.2, 6+). At the same time that Cox Media Group-owned WMMO “98.9 Orlando’s Classic Hits” erases November’s increase of seven-tenths with a December loss of eight-tenths (7.1 – 6.3, third to fifth, 6+), its internet “stream” debuts with a .7 (#22, 6+). November 2018’s 7.1 is WMMO’s highest 6+-stat since November 2017’s 8.1. The station was locked on 6.6 (6+) in July, August, and September, before dropping to 6.4 (6+) in October. A cumulative -1.3 via three down or flat moves in a row (7.1 – 6.4 – 6.4 – 5.8, fifth to sixth, 6+), Entercom classic hits-oldies WOCL “105-9 Sunny FM – We Own The ‘80s” has its lowest 6+-stat (5.8) since July 2018’s 5.4. An overall -.7 as a result of being without an increase for the fifth consecutive sweep (3.4 – 3.2 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.7, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WJRR “101.1 Orlando’s Rock Station” continues at #13. Two positive streaks involving Orland stations come to a close in December 2018. While it stays at #4, Cox Media Group urban AC WCFB “Star 94.5 – Orlando’s Only R&B,” which was an overall +1.4 in five straight sweeps without a loss (5.5 – 6.0 – 6.3 – 6.3 – 6.8 – 6.9, 6+), forfeits four-tenths to 6.5 (6+). A modest +.2, owing to three consecutive up or flat moves (5.2 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.4, 6+), Entercom hot AC WOMX “Mix 105.1” slumps three-tenths to 5.1 but carries on at #7.

Cincinnati

Spoken-Word Formats – After six consecutive months at #1 iHeartMedia news/talk WLW shifts to #2 (10.0 – 9.6, -.4, 6+). Some recent fluctuations for the flagship of MLB’s Reds and NFL’s Bengals include a combined +2.0 (January and February); -1.0 (March); +1.6 (April); -1.2 (May); -1.4 (September); +1.7 (October); and -.8 (November). October’s 10.8 was its highest 6+-share in more than two years (10.8, as well, in June 2016). Co-owned WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station in Cincinnati” falters by three-tenths and departs the top ten (3.6 – 3.3, #10 to #11, 6+). July’s increase of eight-tenths halted four straight monthly reports without an increase for a collective -1.0 (3.8 – 3.7 – 3.3 – 3.0 – 2.8, 6+).

Anchored at #17, sports talk sibling WCKY “Cincinnati’s ESPN 1530” surrenders four-tenths (1.4 – 1.0, 6+); 1.4 (October and November) is its best 6+-stat since May (1.4, as well).

An overall -.7 via four successive sweeps without an increase (3.5 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 3.1 – 2.8, 6+), Cincinnati Public Radio news/talk WVXU dips from #12 to #13.

Cincinnati Music Formats – Owing to a +3.1 (5.2 – 8.3, 6+), Cumulus Media adult contemporary WRRM progresses from fifth to third; “Warm 98.5” posted a 7.5 (6+) in December 2017. By putting together four straight gains for an overall +1.3 (8.6 – 9.1 – 9.2 – 9.6 – 9.9, 6+), co-owned classic hits-oldies WGRR “103.5 Cincinnati’s Greatest Hits” marches from second to first with its strongest 6+-stat (9.9) since March 2018’s 10.4. The 1.1 (6+) that Educational Community Radio’s WOBO “The Station With Something For Everyone” logged in November dwindles by nine-tenths to .2 (#24, 6+). Owing to three straight up or flat monthlies, Hubbard country WUBE was +1.0 (7.9 – 8.3 – 8.9 – 8.9, 6+), but “B-105” returns 80% of that increase in December (8.1, -.8, third to fourth, 6+). November’s 8.9 is the strongest 6+-stat for “B-105” in more than two years (8.9, as well, August 2016). Elsewhere in the market’s country format, Cumulus Media’s WNNF “94.1 Nash-FM” is trending (1.9 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 1.6, flat at 16, 6+), while WUBE cluster-mate WYGY “97.3 The Wolf” drops one-tenth (1.0 – .9, unchanged at #18, 6+). In each sweep between March 2018 and October 2018, “The Wolf” recorded either a .8 (6+) or a .9 (6+). Hubbard hot AC WKRQ “Q-102 Cincinnati’s Hit Music” is down or flat for the fourth successive time for a collective -1.9 (7.9 – 7.4 – 6.6 – 6.6 – 6.0, fourth to fifth, 6+). Immediately after gaining seven-tenths in November, iHeartMedia CHR WKFS “Kiss 107.1 Cincinnati’s #1 Hit Music Station” relinquishes that increase in its entirety (4.1 – 3.4, ninth to tenth, 6+). Prior to November’s +.7, “Kiss” recorded six straight down or flat sweeps that resulted in an overall -1.5 (4.9 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.4, 6+). In August, WDBZ registered a .9 (6+) to finish at #20, but the Radio One urban-rhythmic oldies outlet is unlisted for the fourth month in a row.

Cleveland

Spoken-Word Formats –An overall -1.6 in November and December (6.8 – 6.3 – 5.2, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WTAM “1100 Cleveland’s News Radio” drops from fifth to eighth. An October increase of eight-tenths halted four successive sweeps without an increase for a collective -.6 (6.6 – 6.5 – 6.4 – 6.0 – 6.0, 6+).

Following five successive improvements that netted a +2.0 (3.4 – 3.5 – 3.8 – 4.7 – 5.1 – 5.4, 6+), Entercom’s WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” returns four-tenths (5.0, ninth to tenth, 6+). That positive streak directly followed a combined -1.8 in three straight (March through June) setbacks (5.2 – 4.4 – 4.2 – 3.4, 6+).

In back-to-back sweeps (November and December), Ideastream-owned news/talk outlet WCPN gains two-tenths (2.8 – 3.0 – 3.2, #13 to #14, 6+); WCPN was off four-tenths in October.

Cleveland Music Formats – As a result of three negative moves in a row, Entercom adult contemporary WDOK was down eight-tenths (6.4- 6.2 – 6.0 – 5.6, 6+), but “Cleveland’s Star 102” dials up a +2.6 to 8.2 (6+) and zooms from eighth to second. In December 2017, “Star” notched a 7.2 (6+). Co-owned WNCX “98.5 Cleveland’s Classic Rock,” which was an overall -2.1 (8.4 – 6.9 – 6.8 – 6.3, 6+) via three straight dips, gains two-tenths to 6.5 (fifth to sixth, 6+). November’s 6.3 is its lowest 6+-stat since April’s 6.0. A gain of seven-tenths (6.2 – 6.9, 6+) elevates iHeartMedia adult hits WHLK “106.5 The Lake – We Play Anything” from seventh to fourth. After being a collective +2.8 in three straight increases (6.0 – 6.5 – 7.5 – 8.8, 6+), WZAK returns four-tenths to 8.4 (6+); nonetheless, the Radio One urban AC repeats at #1. Prior to that streak, WZAK lost roughly 40% (-4.1) of its 6+ AQH share in five straight March 2018 through August 2018 down or flat trends (10.1 – 9.6 – 8.1 – 6.8 – 6.8 – 6.0, 6+). Owing to four consecutive decreases (8.1 – 7.2 – 6.8 – 6.5 – 5.7, fourth to seventh, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WGAR “99.5 Cleveland’s #1 For New Country” is a collective -2.4.

Kansas City

Spoken-Word Formats – This proves to be a particularly tough sweep for Entercom news/talk KMBZ-FM “98.1 News-Traffic-Weather” (5.1 – 4.0, -1.1, #4 to #11, 6+) and co-owned KMBZ-AM “Talk 980” (2.6 – 1.8, -.8, #19 to #20, 6+). KMBZ-FM was a combined +.7 (4.4 – 4.7 – 5.1, 6+) in October and November, while KMBZ-AM was up four-tenths in October. Flat at #23, Cumulus Media’s KCMO-AM “Talk Radio 710 AM” regains the one-tenth it lost in November (.6 – .7, 6+).

After more than doubling (+2.2) its 6+-share in six straight positive spikes (2.0 – 2.1 – 2.4 – 2.6 – 2.8 – 4.0 – 4.2, Union Broadcasting’s WHB falters by four-tenths to 3.8 (6+) and departs the top ten (#9 to #12). “Sports Radio 810” was -.9 in February; +.9 in March; an overall -2.0 in April and May (4.0 – 2.9 – 2.0, 6+); and +1.2 in October. Even though it erases October’s +.4 with a collective -.4 in November and December (3.5 – 3.2 – 3.1, -.3, 6+), Entercom’s KCSP “610 Sports Radio” climbs from #17 to #16.

Tacking on three-tenths to November’s +.5 (3.0 – 3.5 – 3.8, 6+), University of Missouri news/talk KCUR improves from #14 to #12.

Kansas City Music Formats – An overall -.9 through six straight April 2018 through October 2018 sweeps without an increase (4.9 – 4.8 – 4.6 – 4.6 – 4.6 – 4.3 – 4.0, 6+), Entercom’s WDAF “106.5 The Wolf” has answered with a cumulative +1.3 in November and December (4.0 – 4.3 – 5.3, seventh to fourth, 6+). This is the highest 6+-share for “The Wolf” since January 2018 (5.3, as well). Cross-town rival, Steel City Media’s KBEQ “Q-104 New Hit Country,” is a combined -1.6 in three straight downturns (5.6 – 4.4 – 4.3 – 3.7, 6+), drifting from #7 to #14. Also in the format, KBEQ cluster-mate KFKF “Country 94.1” is a combined -2.1 as a result of four consecutive sweeps without an increase (6.2 – 5.3 – 4.5 – 4.1 – 4.1, #11 to #9, 6+). Reaching the four-share level (6+) for the first time since February’s 4.0, Cumulus Media urban AC KMJK “Magic 107.3 – Kansas City’s Best Mix of R&B” is an overall +1.7 via three straight upticks (2.7 – 2.8 – 3.4 – 4.4, 6+), rocketing into the top ten (#15 to #8). In eight successive March through November declines (8.1 – 7.7 – 7.2 – 7.1 – 6.8 – 6.4 – 6.3 – 5.4 – 5.0, 6+), classic hits-oldies sibling KCMO-FM was a combined -3.1, but “94.9 Kansas City’s Greatest Hits” picks up one-tenth in December to 5.1 (sixth to fifth, 6+). KCMO-FM was #1 in March 2018, April, and May. Wiping away November’s one-half share decrease with a December gain of nine-tenths (4.7 – 4.2 – 5.1, ninth to fifth 6+), Steel City Media adult contemporary KCKC “KC-102.1 Today’s Best Variety” has its best 6+ showing (5.1) since January 2018’s 5.2. On the heels of November’s one-half share loss, Entercom-owned KQRC “98.9 The Rock” erodes by another nine-tenths (7.0 – 6.1, flat at #2, 6+). Its one-half share loss in November halted three straight increases that netted a +2.0 (5.5 – 6.5 – 7.3 – 7.5, 6+). Notwithstanding that it falters by seven-tenths to 9.0 (6+), thus pulling the plug on six straight sweeps without a loss for an overall +2.7 (7.0 – 7.2 – 7.2 – 7.8 – 8.8 – 9.6 – 9.7, 6+), Cumulus Media’s KCFX “101 The Fox – Kansas City’s Classic Rock Station” is #1 for the seventh time in a row. November’s 9.7 is the highest 6+-stat for the Kansas City Chiefs’ flagship since July 2017’s 10.3. Unchanged at #18, University of Northwestern St. Paul contemporary Christian KJNW “Life 88.5” regresses by eight-tenths to 1.9 (6+), thus interrupting its July 2018 through November 2018 topline of 2.4 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 2.4 – 2.7 (6+). The one-half share increase that Steel City Media CHR KMXV “Mix 93.3” collected in October and November (4.6 – 5.0 – 5.1, 6+) is erased with a December loss of six-tenths (4.5, fourth to seventh, 6+).

Columbus

Spoken-Word Formats – An overall +.9 in three straight positive spikes (5.4 – 5.5 – 6.1 – 6.3, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WTVN “News Radio 610” returns two-tenths (6.1, fourth to sixth, 6+).

Ever since reappearing in print, RadiOhio sports talk outlet – and flagship of the NHL’s Columbus Blue Jackets – WBNS-FM “Sports Radio 97.1 The Fan” has been +1.1 (October); -.4 (November); and now +1.0 (6.3 – 7.3, fourth to third, 6+). Recapturing the three-tenths it lost in November (.9 – .6 – .9, 6+), iHeartMedia sports talk WXZX “105.7 The Zone” continues at #18.

The August 2018 through December 2018 up/down pattern of Ohio State University news/talk WOSU is 4.5 – 4.6 – 3.5 – 4.0 – 3.6 (eighth to ninth, 6+). Immediately prior to the October sweep, WOSU had a net gain of seven-tenths via three straight up or flat monthlies (3.9 – 3.9 – 4.5 – 4.6, 6+).

Columbus Music Formats – Tacking on a +1.4 to November’s +.4 (6.3 – 7.7, 6+), Saga Communications adult contemporary WSNY “Sunny 95” jumps from fourth to second with its best 6+-showing since “Holiday” 2017’s 11.0. A combined +1.2 in four straight increases (2.7 – 2.8 – 3.0 – 3.8 – 3.9, 6+), Radio One’s WCKX “Power 107.5” inches up from ninth to eighth. An uptick of eight-tenths to 5.8 (steady at #7, 6+) by iHeartMedia adult hits WODC “93.3 The Bus – We Play Anything” applies the brakes to three consecutive dips that generated an overall -1.7 (6.7 – 6.4 – 5.3 – 5.0, 6+). That particular streak immediately followed four consecutive improvements that netted a +1.6 (5.1 – 5.6 – 5.7 – 5.9 – 6.7, 6+). Co-owned WCOL is #1 for the 12^th sweep in a row and has been in double-digits (6+) each ratings period since June 2017. On the flipside though, “92.3 Columbus’ #1 For New Country” is a collective -3.6 through five straight setbacks (16.3 – 15.1 – 15.0 – 14.5 – 13.0 – 12.7, 6+). When WCOL was -1.2 in August, it concluded five consecutive increases for an overall +4.0 (12.3 – 13.4 – 14.4 – 14.5 – 15.7 – 16.3, 6+). Among the major fluctuations for “92.3 Columbus’ #1 For New Country” in calendar year 2018 are +3.1 (January); -1.7 (February); +1.1 (March); +1.0 (April); +1.2 (June); +.6 (July); 1.2 (August); -.5 (October); and -1.5 (November). A -1.3 (3.8 – 2.5, #9 to #11, 6+) takes One Connection Media Group contemporary Christian WCVO “Uplifting & Encouraging 104.9 The River” below a three-share (6+) for the first time since October 2018’s 2.3. Off six-tenths (2.8 – 2.2, #12 to #13, 6+), Saga Communications hot AC WVMX “Mix 107.9” has its weakest 6+-showing since “Holiday” 2017 (2.2, as well). After posting gains of six-tenths in October and November (6.5 – 7.1 – 7.7, 6+), co-owned WLVQ “Q-FM 96 – Iconic Rock” surrenders one-half share (7.2, second to fourth, 6+). November’s 7.7 is its highest 6+-stat since January 2017’s 7.9. Following four up or flat trends in a row that accounted for a +1.1 (2.4 – 2.6 – 2.6 – 3.3 – 3.5, 6+), iHeartMedia urban contemporary WZCB “106.7 The Beat” returns two-tenths to 3.3 (6+) but improves from #11 to #10.