Tag: "Don Parker"
Wednesday, June 12, 2019
Mike Calta and Cox Media Group’s ‘The Bone’ Extend Their Relationship. Tampa Bay talk host Mike Calta and Cox Media Group have signed a new, multi
-year deal for Calta to continue as host of the morning program on WPHT “102.5 The Bone.” CMG Tampa director of branding and programming John Brennan says, “Mike Calta leads the most entertaining weekday talk show in Tampa Bay. We are excited that ‘The Mike Calta Show’ will continue to call ‘102.5 The Bone’ home for many years to come.” Calta comments, “I’m excited to call both Tampa Bay and CMG my home and my family for the next couple of years and hopefully plenty more beyond that.”
Round Two of May PPMs Released. The second round of Nielsen Audio’s May 2019 PPM survey results is released for the group of 12 markets that includes: Washington, Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis-St.Paul, San Diego, Tampa-St. Petersburg, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis. You can see all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. TALKERS managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Takeaways from this group of markets tomorrow (6/13).
Entercom Chicago Cuts Staff. According to Chicago media reporter Robert Feder, a number of off-air positions have been eliminated at Entercom’s
Chicago operations that includes all-news WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM and sports talk WSCR “The Score.” He writes that eight staffers were let go – five in the traffic/continuity department and three in sales. Apparently, there are more cuts to come as Feder’s sources say “another four positions in finance will be cut in August with numerous additional staff reductions on the way.”
Brummel Appointed Group National Sales Manager at SummitMedia. Radio sales pro Jeff Brummel joins SummitMedia as group national sales director,
effective June 24. He’s most recently been serving in a similar capacity with Townsquare Media. During his career he’s served with radio stations in Dallas, Chicago and Philadelphia as well as working on the national radio rep sales side in New York, Atlanta, and Chicago. He says, “I am very excited to join SummitMedia as group national sales manager. The enviable roster of top performing stations in each of Summit’s markets coupled with the company’s entrepreneurial culture aligned perfectly with my skill set and career goals.”
WREC-AM, Memphis PD and Morning Host Forrest Goodman Dies at 48. The
details are few but the Daily Memphian reports that Forrest Goodman, PD and morning drive co-host at iHeartMedia’s WREC-AM, Memphis died Monday night (6/10) from “multiple health problems” at the age of 48. Goodman also hosted the pre-game and post-game shows for University of Memphis football and basketball for almost 20 years.
ESPN Will Shutter ESPN Deportes in September. The Spanish-language sports talk network launched in 2005 and currently has 44 affiliate stations
across the U.S. ESPN offers its reasoning for the decision to shut down the radio network. “Hispanic audience consumer habits are changing rapidly, and this requires ESPN to evolve as well. It’s no secret Hispanic fans skew heavily on digital and social which is why we made the decision to discontinue ESPN Deportes terrestrial radio (ESPN Deportes Radio) in September. Moving forward, ESPN will continue serving Hispanic sports fans with the widest variety of sports through multiple platforms including television, digital, social, mobile, and audio podcasts.”
TALKERS News Notes. Former one-term congressman Jason Lewis – a
longtime talk radio host and current part-time personality on iHeartMedia’s KTLK, Minneapolis-St. Paul – may run for office again. The Pioneer Press reports that Lewis is being urged by Republican leaders to run for either Minnesota’s 2nd congressional district seat (he lost that seat in a re-election bid to Democrat Angie Craig last year) or to challenge U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) in 2020…..Programming pro Don Parker takes on new duties as iHeartMedia names him general manager for its “PRIDE Radio, The Pulse of
LGBTQ America.” Parker is regional SVP of programming for the company’s Northern California Region and will continue in that role. As GM for “PRIDE Radio,” he’ll “oversee the day-to-day programming, marketing, sales, and operations of PRIDE Radio’ and help further expand the brand’s reach and business development to the LGBTQ+ community on the iHeartRadio app and HD2 stations across the country. Additionally, iHeartMedia will soon conduct a national search for a program director for PRIDE Radio, reporting into Parker.”…..ABC News is presenting a new series titled, “Faith Under Fire” – a look at the violence waged against houses of worship in recent years. The series is being hosted by chief justice correspondent Pierre Thomas and features interviews with: Rev. Frank Pomeroy from First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, Texas and his wife, Sherri; Pastor Eric Manning from Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina; and Alan Hausman, vice president of Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania…..cabana adds 10 podcasts to its digital audio library with new titles coming from publishers such as Inc. Magazine, New Hampshire Public Radio, and celebrity hosts like Jen Kirkman. cabana SVP of business
development Frank DeSantis says, “We’re excited to welcome these engaging hosts and topics to cabana. As podcast advertising matures, we have a variety of options and opportunities to help our advertisers engage with targeted listeners.”…..Pictured at right is Westwood One nationally syndicated late night host Jim Bohannon emceeing the annual awards dinner for the Society of Professional Journalists, Washington professional chapter on Tuesday (6/11) at the National Press Club in Washington, DC.
Beasley Honored at 2019 Service to America Awards. WMMR-FM, Philadelphia’s “Preston & Steve Morning Show” was honored with the “Service to Community Award for Radio-Major Market” for its Camp Out for Hunger Initiative and Beasley Media Group received the 2019 “Service to Community Award for Radio-Ownership Group” for its yearlong, company-wide Beasley Best Community of Caring Initiative, that shined the spotlight on issues including bullying, hunger, autism, and the opioid epidemic. Pictured above at Tuesday’s event at the Anthem in Washington, DC are (from l-r): WMMR-FM program director & rock format brand manager Bill Weston, chief communications officer Heidi Raphael, Philadelphia VP/market manager Joe Bell, Cullen Wilson, Preston Elliot, CEO Caroline Beasley, Steve Morrison, Philadelphia community affairs director Lora Lewis, Ft. Myers director of sales Allyson Hillman, vice president of digital marketing Jennifer Williams, and EVP of programming Justin Chase.
2020 Presidential Race, Impeachment Talk, Hong Kong Protests, Kim Jong Nam-CIA Connection, and Dominican Deaths/Big Papi Shot Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (6/11). The war of words between President Trump and Democratic presidential contender Joe Biden; Democrats talk of impeachment; the protests taking place in Hong Kong against China’s new extradition law; the report that assassinated half-brother of Kim Jong Un– Kim Jong Nam – was a CIA informant; and the mysterious deaths of tourists in the Dominican Republic and the shooting of retired Red Sox slugger David Ortiz were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. One staffer in the Westwood One music & entertainment division is promoted and a new one joins the company. Todd Alan becomes vice president, affiliate sales, music & entertainment. He was most recently director, affiliate sales. In his new role, he’ll manage and develop the company’s station relationships and distribution partnerships across its music and entertainment programming, including Westwood One Backstage live marquee events and radio row activations. At the same time, the company brings Julie Bell aboard as director, affiliate sales, music & entertainment. Westwood One’s Stuart Greenblatt says, “I’m thrilled that Todd will take command of our music & entertainment division here at Westwood One. I’ve worked closely with him for many years and know him to be one of the best in the business, with solid industry relationships and impressive sales expertise. I’m also delighted to welcome Julie Bell to our music & entertainment team. Her 20 years’ experience selling entertainment programs make her the perfect person to round out our team, along with Westwood One veteran Neal Weiner.”…..Pictured below are iHeartMedia execs (from l-r) president, COO, CFO Rich Bressler; chairman and CEO Bob Pittman; chief programming officer and president, national programming group Tom Poleman; and president, entertainment enterprises John Sykes with their Music Visionary of the Year awards from the UJA-Federation of New York. Tuesday’s luncheon was attended by 700 guests from the music industry and the event raised more than $1.6 million to benefit UJA-Federation.
Round One of May 2019 PPM Data. Information for the May 2019 ratings period has been released for New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey). Nielsen Audio’s May 2019 survey period covered April 25 – May 22. Managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” from these 12 PPM markets.
New York City
Spoken-Word Formats – Despite being off a collective three-tenths in four
straight down or flat reports (1.8 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.5, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WOR “710 The Voice of New York” climbs from #22 to #21. An overall -.4 as a result of five straight down or flat sweeps (1.6 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.2 – 1.2, 6+), Townsquare Media’s similarly-formatted WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” ends the slide with a gain of one-tenth to 1.3 (#23 to #22, 6+). Three straight dips by Cumulus Media-owned news/talk WABC have led to a loss of one-half share (1.5 – 1.3 -1.2 – 1.0, #23 to #24, 6+).
An April spike of +1.2 by Entercom sports talk WFAN is followed by a decline of two-tenths (3.0 – 4.2 – 4.0, 6+), but the Yankees’ flagship continues in sixth-place. Having posted a 1.8 (6+) in three of the last four sweeps (1.8 – 1.8 – 2.2 – 1.8, 6+), WEPN gains two-tenths to 2.0 (#20 to #19, 6+). By dropping four-tenths in April, “98.7 ESPN New York” curtailed three consecutive up or flat trends that yielded eight-tenths (1.4 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 2.2, 6+).
Entercom all-news WINS, which was -1.1 in three successive down or flat reports
(4.8 – 4.1 – 3.7 – 3.7, 6+), pulls the plug by adding two-tenths to 3.9 (6+) and repeats at #9. Co-owned/similarly-programmed Mets flagship WCBS-AM is a combined -.8 in April/May (3.4 – 2.9 – 2.6, #13 to #15, 6+). WINS was -1.1 in February/March (4.8 – 4.1 – 3.7, 6+), while WCBS-AM gained three-tenths in March (3.1 – 3.4, 6+).
When WNYC Broadcasting Foundation news/talk WNYC-FM gained three-tenths in April, it halted four successive down or flat sweeps that resulted in an overall -1.0 (3.6 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 2.9 – 2.6, 6+). In May, however, WNYC-FM falters by one-half share (2.9 – 2.4, #13 to #17, 6+). The February 2019 through May 2019 topline for co-owned news/talk WNYC-AM is .4 – .3 – .4 – .3 (#31 to #34, 6+).
New York City Music Formats – The combination of Emmis urban AC WBLS “107.5 #1 For R&B” adding three-tenths (6.5 – 6.8, 6+) and iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW “106.7 Lite FM” dropping two-tenths (7.0 – 6.8, 6+) results in the two becoming tangled in a first-place tie. This is the 23rd consecutive ratings period that “Lite” has been on top. It posted a one-half share increase in March, but surrendered seven-tenths in April. A combined -5.3 in January/February (12.5 – 7.6 – 7.2, 6+), WLTW was +5.8 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (6.7 – 9.1 – 12.5, 6+). Meanwhile, an April decrease of four-tenths by WBLS interrupted three straight gains that accounted for a collective +1.3 (5.6 – 6.3 – 6.8 – 6.9, 6+). A very legitimate argument could be made that the Big Apple’s co-top story is the fact this marks the final hot AC monthly for WPLJ, which flips to contemporary Christian, following the sale from Cumulus Media to Educational Media Foundation. Legendary WPLJ goes out on a very positive note, as it is without a loss for the fifth straight New York City sweep for a cumulative gain of +1.1 (2.0 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 3.1, #17 to #13, 6+). It eclipses by one-tenth Entercom’s similarly formatted WNEW-FM “NEW 102.7,” which follows April’s gain of one-half share with a dip of one-tenth (3.1 – 3.0, #11 to #14, 6+). Steady at #4, Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish tropical WSKQ “La Mega 97.9” has a February 2019 through May 2019 topline of 5.3 – 5.0 – 5.0 – 5.3 (6+). Advancing from eighth to sixth, iHeartMedia urban contemporary WWPR “Power 105.1” gains eight-tenths through four straight bumps (3.2 – 3.6 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.0, 6+). Tied in tenth-place are WWPR rhythmic CHR cluster-mate WKTU “103.5 KTU” (#11 to #10, 6+) and its format rival – Emmis’ WQHT “Hot 97” (3.5 – 3.4, -.1, flat at #10, 6+). This is the ninth time in a row that WKTU is within 3.1 – 3.6 range (3.6 – 3.2 – 3.3 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.1 – 3.4, 6+). “Hot 97” is a collective -.4 in April/May (3.8 – 3.5 – 3.4, 6+). Before gaining one-tenth in March to 3.8 (6+), “Hot” notched a 3.7 (6+) in five of the previous six sweeps (3.7 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.5 – 3.7, 6+); WKTU logged a 3.1 (6+) in “Holiday” 2018, January 2019, and February 2019. Without a loss the past four ratings periods for an overall net of eight-tenths (2.0 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.6 – 2.8, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WNSH “New York’s Country 94.7” forfeits two-tenths to 2.6 (6+) yet inches up from #16 to #15. While unchanged in third-place, Entercom classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM “101.1 New York’s Greatest Hits” is down one full-share via four successive down or flat moves (6.4 – 5.9 – 5.9 – 5.6 – 5.4, 6+), while iHeartMedia classic rocker WAXQ “Q-104.3” is off one-half share in three consecutive dips (4.5 – 4.4 – 4.2 – 4.0, flat at #6, 6+).
Los Angeles
Spoken-Word Formats – Having lost three-tenths in March/April (4.0 – 3.8 – 3.7,
6+), iHeartMedia news/talk KFI “AM 640” picks up two-tenths to 3.9 (6+) and continues in seventh-place. Ever since debuting in February, its internet stream has notched three straight up or flat moves (.6 – .6 – .7 – .8, #36 to #34, 6+). Co-owned news/talk KEIB “AM 1150 The Patriot,” which logged a .8 (6+) in five of the last six ratings periods 
(.8 – .8 – .9 – .8 – .8 – .8, 6+) improves by two-tenths to 1.0 (#33 to #31, 6+). Off one-tenth in back-to-back sweeps (1.0 – .9 – .8, 6+), Salem Media Group news/talk KRLA “AM 870 The Answer” erases half that deficit with a one-tenth progression to .9 (#33 to #32, 6+). The November 2018 through May 2019 topline for Cumulus Media-owned KABC “790 News-Talk-Evolved” is .5 – .7 – .7 – .6 – .6 – .5 – .6 – .5 (#39 to #38, 6+).
Three down or flat moves in a row by Disney-owned KSPN accounted for a one-half share decline (1.6 – 1.5 – 1.1 – 1.1, 6+), but “710 ESPN” benefits with a +.2 to 1.3 (#29 to #27, 6+). After nearly doubling March’s 6+-stat with an April +.6 (.7 – 1.3, 6+), iHeartMedia sports talk/Dodgers flagship KLAC “AM 570 LA Sports” basically levels off with a one-tenth loss to 1.2 (#27 to #28, 6+).
Without an increase the fourth time in a row, Entercom’s KNX “1070 News Radio” falters by nine-tenths in that stretch (3.7 – 3.6 – 3.1 – 2.8 – 2.8, #12 to #13, 6+).
After an April gain of two-tenths, Pasadena City College news/talk KPCC “The Voice of Southern California” is unchanged in May in 6+-share (2.3) and 6+-market rank (#18).
Los Angeles Music Formats – Via six straight sweeps without a loss, Entercom classic hits-oldies KRTH is a cumulative +1.4 (4.4 – 4.4 – 5.1 – 5.3 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 5.8, 6+) as “K-Earth 101” repeats in the runner-up slot. While unchanged in third-place, smooth AC sibling KTWV “94-7 The Wave” is a collective +1.6 owing to five consecutive positive spikes (3.6 – 4.3 – 4.4 – 4.7 – 5.0 – 5.2, 6+). Notwithstanding that it backslides from eighth to ninth, Spanish Broadcasting System regional Mexican KLAX “97.9 La Raza” is a collective +1.0 in six consecutive up or flat moves (2.1 – 2.3 – 2.7 – 2.9 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 3.1, 6+). KLOS notches its fifth straight up or flat trend for a net gain of one-half share (2.4 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.6 – 2.8 – 2.9, 6+) and advances from #12 to #11. Meruelo Media Holdings acquired KLOS from Cumulus Media for $43 million and is programming the station under a Local Marketing Agreement (LMA). Pulling the plug on three straight setbacks that resulted in a net loss of nine-tenths (5.0 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 4.1, 6+), iHeartMedia hot AC KBIG “104.3 My-FM” registers an improvement of four-tenths to 4.5 (fifth to fourth, 6+). In addition to recording an increase of three-tenths (6.3 – 6.6, 6+), co-owned adult contemporary KOST “Coast 103.5” sets the pace in the “City of Angels” for the eighth straight time. After its “Holiday” 2018 13.0 (6+), “Coast” has followed with 6.2 – 6.5 – 6.5 – 6.3 – 6.6 (6+). Prior to January when it surrendered a -6.8 to 6.2 (6+), KOST was an overall +8.4 via five improvements in a row (4.6 – 4.7 – 4.9 – 5.1 – 9.0 – 13.0, 6+). In four consecutive bumps, Entravision Riverside Spanish adult hits KLYY “Jose” has more than doubled (+1.5) its Los Angeles 6+-stat (1.1 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.1 – 2.5 – 2.6, 6+) and progresses from #17 to #16. Four straight increases by Entercom adult hits KCBS-FM “93.1 Jack FM – Playing What We Want” netted nine-tenths (3.3 – 3.5 – 4.0 – 4.1 – 4.2, 6+), but Los Angeles’ version of “Jack” relinquishes two-tenths to 4.0 (fourth to fifth, 6+). April’s 4.2 is its best 6+-stat since May 2018 (4.2, as well). Steady in eighth-place, Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish contemporary KXOL “Mega 96.3” has improved by one-half share through three straight upticks (2.7 – 3.0 – 3.1 – 3.2, 6+). In the market’s CHR contest, iHeartMedia’s KIIS “102.7 Kiss FM” is off four-tenths in three successive sweeps without an increase (4.4 – 4.3 – 4.0 – 4.0, sixth to fifth, 6+), while Entercom-owned KAMP “97.1 Amp Radio” is within 2.0 – 2.9 territory for the 24th time in a row (2.4, +.1, #18 to #17, 6+). “Kiss” lost four-tenths in March/April (4.4 – 4.3 – 4.0, 6+); “Amp” was off one-half share in the same stretch (2.8 – 2.7 – 2.3, 6+). As a result of four consecutive sweeps without an increase, Entercom-owned KROQ regresses by a collective half-share (2.4 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.3 – 2.0 – 1.9, #22 to #21, 6+). Its format rival – iHeartMedia’s KYSR “Alt 98.7 – LA’s New Alternative” – is down one-tenth in back-to-back sweeps (2.4 – 2.3 – 2.2, #18 to #19, 6+). Salem Media Group contemporary Christian KFSH “95.9 The Fish” records a .7 (6+) for the fourth time in the last five reports (.7 – .7 – .7 – .8 – .7, #36, 6+).
Chicago
Spoken-Word Formats – While flat at #14, Tribune Media news/talk WGN has
surrendered six-tenths in three straight down or flat trends (3.5 – 3.1 – 2.9 – 2.9, 6+); the White Sox flagship gained one-half share in February. This marks the fifth consecutive report without a loss for Cumulus Media news/talk WLS-AM, which is up seven-tenths in that stretch (1.1 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.8, #21 to #22, 6+).
Tacking on one-half share to April’s increase of nine-tenth (2.8 – 3.7 – 4.2, 6+), Entercom sports talk/Cubs key station WSCR “670 The Score” jumps from eighth to sixth with its best 6+-showing since October 2018 (4.2, as well). Even though Disney/ESPN-owned WMVP is up a collective four-tenths in three straight bumps (1.0 – 1.1 – 1.3 – 1.4, 6+), “ESPN Chicago 1000” slips from #24 to #26.
Conversely, Entercom news outlet WBBM-AM, which has lost an overall nine
-tenths in four successive down or flat moves (6.2 – 6.1 – 5.8 – 5.3 – 5.3, 6+), advances from fourth to second. Prior to April, WBBM-AM had been at #1 the previous three sweeps.
Repeating April’s 2.8 (6+), Chicago Public Media news/talk WBEZ drops from #15 to #16.
Chicago Music Formats – Not only is iHeartMedia mainstream CHR WKSC without a loss the sixth successive time for an overall +.7 (2.9 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 3.2 – 3.6, 6+), “103.5 Kiss FM Chicago’s #1 Hit Music Station” cracks the top ten (#12 to #9). A combined +.9 in March/April (2.2 – 3.0 – 3.1, 6+), Entercom CHR WBBM-FM “B-96” falters by four-tenths to 2.7 (6+), skidding from #13 to #18. Up or flat the seventh straight time for an overall gain of four-tenths (1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.7 – 1.8, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WEBG “Big 95.5 Chicago’s New Country” inches up from #23 to #22. It is chasing Entercom-owned WUSN “US-99 Chicago’s Hottest Country,” whose February 2019 through May 2019 topline is 3.0 – 2.6 – 2.7 – 3.0 (#18 to #12, 6+). Recapturing in its entirety the six-tenths it forfeited in April (4.5 – 3.9 – 4.5, 6+), Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WLS-FM “94.7 Chicago’s Classic Hits” remains in fifth-place. Entering the April sweep, “Chicago’s Classic Hits” was up nine-tenths in three straight improvements (3.6 – 3.7 – 3.9 – 4.5, 6+). Even though it returns 60% of April’s one-half share gain (5.9 – 5.6, -.3, 6+), Hubbard hot AC WTMX “101.9 The Mix” repeats at #1. April’s 5.9 is its highest 6+-stat since November 2017’s 6.3. Owing to four successive setbacks (5.5 – 5.0 – 4.2 – 3.9 – 3.1, 6+), Univision Radio regional Mexican WOJO is -2.4 as “Que Buena 105.1” fades from the top ten (#5 to #11). Its January increase of nine-tenths halted a December/“Holiday” 2018 mini-slide that resulted in a loss of eight-tenths (5.4 – 4.7 – 4.6, 6+). Spanish Broadcasting System’s similarly-formatted WLEY “La Ley 107.9” has lost seven-tenths in three straight down or flat moves (2.6 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 1.9, #21, 6+). A collective +1.5 in four successive increases (3.9 – 4.5 – 5.1 – 5.3 – 5.4, 6+), Hubbard classic rock WDRV “97.1 The Drive” returns roughly half that increase (4.7, -.7, 6+) and slips from third to fourth. April’s 5.4 is its strongest 6+-showing since August 2018’s 5.5. Adult contemporary sibling WSHE “100.3 SHE,” which notched an overall eight-tenths via four consecutive up or flat moves (2.5 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.3, 6+), falters by one-half share to 2.8 (6+), spiraling from #9 to #16. Its format rival, iHeartMedia’s WLIT, is an overall -9.4 as a result of five successive reports without an increase (13.3 – 5.0 – 4.4 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.9, fifth to seventh, 6+); “93.9 Lite FM” was a combined +10.1 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (3.2 – 8.4 – 13.3, 6+).
San Francisco
Spoken-Word Formats – Stuck on 2.3 (6+) in March and April, Cumulus Media
news/talk KSFO drops two-tenths to 2.1 (6+), falling from #16 to a three-way tie at #18. With a gain of three-tenths to 1.7 (#26 to #24, 6+), cluster-mate KGO applies the brakes to seven successive down or flat sweeps that resulted in a loss of eight-tenths (2.2 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 1.8 – 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.4, 6+). For the fifth consecutive time, iHeartMedia-owned KKSF-AM “Real Talk 910 – Think Forward” records a .2 (#34 to #36, 6+).
In addition to catapulting from #19 to #8 and boasting the largest (6+) April 2019 
to May 2019 increase (+1.4) of any station in the 12 PPM-markets highlighted here, Entercom sports talk KGMZ “95.7 The Game” catches Cumulus Media’s similarly-formatted KNBR “The Sports Leader” (3.6 – 3.3, -.3, seventh to eighth, 6+). Furthermore, “The Game,” which is the flagship of the NBA’s Golden State Warriors, nearly doubles (+1.5) its 6+-stat in three straight sweeps without a loss (1.8 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 3.3, 6+). Meanwhile, Giants’ key station KNBR was +1.0 in April.
Following four straight months in the runner-up slot, KCBS-AM picks up three-tenths (6.3 – 6.6, 6+) and marches to #1. The Entercom all-news operation had been off a collective seven-tenths in three straight dips (7.0 – 6.5 – 6.4 – 6.3, 6+), directly after three consecutive gains for an overall +1.7 (5.3 – 5.7 – 5.8 – 7.0, 6+).
It succeeds Northern California Public Broadcasting news/talk KQED, which had been on top the past four sweeps, but falters by one-half share in back-to-back sweeps (7.3 – 6.8 – 6.3, -.5, 6+), segueing to #2. San Francisco Unified School District’s KALW “91.7 Local Public Radio” is off four-tenths in three straight drops (1.3 – 1.1 – 1.0 – .9, #28 to #29, 6+), directly after more than tripling (+.9) its 6+-share in nine successive sweeps without a loss (.4 – .5 – .5 – .5 – .6 – .6 – .7 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.3, 6+).
San Francisco Music Formats – Not only does Spanish Broadcasting System regional Mexican KRZZ gain seven-tenths to 2.3 (6+), thus curtailing three straight decreases that resulted in an overall loss of nine-tenths (2.5 – 2.1 – 1.9 – 1.6, 6+), “La Raza 93.3” enters the top twenty (#23 to #16). On the other hand, despite posting its fifth straight up or flat trend for a gain of seven-tenths (1.3 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.9 – 2.0, 6+), Bonneville’s KUFX “98.5 K-Fox The South Bay’s Classic Rock” departs the top twenty (#19 to #21). Down one-tenth in back-to-back sweeps (3.8 – 3.7 – 3.6, 6+), Entercom hot AC KLLC “Alice @ 97.3” answers with a +.6 to 4.2 (seventh to third, 6+). At the same time, its internet stream picks up one-half share (.3 – .8, #31, 6+). Flat at #12, iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted KIOI “Star 101.3” is off one-half share in four successive down or flat trends (3.4 – 3.1 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.9, 6+). Before sputtering by two-tenths in April, Cumulus Media classic rocker KSAN was +1.1 in three successive improvements (2.6 – 3.1 – 3.3 – 3.7, 6+), but “107.7 The Bone” bounces back with a May increase of one-half share (3.5 – 4.0, #9 to a three-way tie at #4, 6+). The other players in that three-way, fourth-place logjam are Bonneville-owned adult contemporary KOIT-FM “96.5 Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites” (4.6 – 4.0, -.6, third to fourth, 6+) and iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted KISQ “98.1 The Breeze,” which is a combined -1.0 in April/May (5.0 – 4.4 – 4.0, flat at #4, 6+). KOIT-FM, which completely erased February’s -.5 with a March +.5, improved its 6+-stat by seven full-shares in December/“Holiday” 2018, (3.7 – 6.4 – 10.7, 6+), but was a combined -6.4 in January/February (10.7 – 4.8 – 4.3, 6+). Prior to April’s loss of six-tenths, “The Breeze” was an overall +1.2 via three straight gains (3.8 – 4.3 – 4.9 – 5.0, 6+). While iHeartMedia urban contemporary KMEL “#1 For Hip-Hop and R&B” is within 3.0 – 3.9 range for the 11th time in a row (3.7 – 3.6 – 3.9 – 3.5 – 3.0 – 3.5 – 3.0 – 3.3 – 3.2 – 3.7 – 3.0, 6+), it forfeits seven-tenths and departs the top ten (#5 to #11). April’s 3.7 represents its best 6+-stat since October 2018’s 3.9. Forfeiting one-half share each are Bonneville urban AC KBLX “Today’s R&B and Old School,” which surrenders nine-tenths in four straight sweeps without an increase (3.3 – 3.2 – 2.9 – 2.4, #12 to #14, 6+), and Univision Radio regional Mexican KSOL “Que Buena” (2.7 – 2.2, #14 to #17, 6+). KSOL’s Spanish adult hits cluster-mate KBRG “Amor 100.3,” which was +1.0 in three straight sweeps without a loss (2.0 – 2.4 – 3.0 – 3.0, 6+), cedes four-tenths to 2.6 (#11 to #13, 6+). In April, “Amor” had its best 6+-showing (3.0) since September 2018’s 3.1.
Dallas
Spoken-Word Formats – Without a loss the fifth time in a row for a +1.4 (2.3 –
2.8 – 2.9 – 3.1 – 3.7 – 3.7, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WBAP “News Talk 820” jumps from ninth to sixth. The overall “Holiday” 2018 through May 2019 +1.4 completely obliterates its December/“Holiday” 2018 loss of nine-tenths (3.2 – 2.7 – 2.3, 6+). Down one-tenth each are Salem Media Group-owned KSKY “660 AM The Answer” (.9 – .8, #32 to #35, 6+) and Cumulus Media’s KLIF-AM “570 News & Information” (.4 – .3, flat at #37, 6+).
Sports talk cluster-mate KTCK “The Ticket All Sports All The Time” notches a 2.7 (6+) for the third report in succession and downslides from #16 to #17. As a result of four straight declines (3.1 – 2.5 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.5, 6+), Entercom’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” has lost roughly 52% (-1.6) of its 6+-share as the flagship of the Texas Rangers drops from #23 to #26. After six straight down or flat trends that resulted in its 6+-share being sliced in half (-.6) over that October 2018 through March 2019 duration (1.2 – 1.2 – 1.1 – 1.0 – .9 – .8 – .6, 6+), Disney/ESPN’s KESN “103.3 ESPN Dallas” is a combined +.3 in April/May (.6 – .8 – .9, #34 to #33, 6+).
In addition to snapping at four its consecutive string of up or flat trends that produced a net gain of one-half share (2.0 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.5, 6+), Entercom news-talk hybrid KRLD-AM (2.3, -.2, 6+) exits the top twenty (#17 to #21). Dating back to “Holiday” 2016, “News Radio 1080” has been within a (6+) high of 2.8 and a low of 2.0.
Repeating April’s 3.6 (6+), North Texas Public Broadcasting news/talk outlet KERA advances from tenth to a four-way tie at eighth. Before faltering by three-tenths in April, KERA was a collective +.8 via three improvements in a row (3.1 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 3.9, 6+).
Dallas Music Formats – Once again, contemporary Christian grabs the headlines in this Texas market. Specifically, WAY Media’s KAWA “WAY-FM Uplifting-Upbeat-Real” wipes away March’s -1.2 with a combined April/May +1.2 (1.1 – 1.6 – 2.3, #23 to #21, 6+), while Educational Media Foundation’s KYDA “Air 1 Worship Now” regains the one-half share it lost in April (2.4 – 1.9 – 2.4, #21 to #20, 6+). This directly follows a March increase of six-tenths to 2.4, its strongest 6+-showing since December 2016 (2.4, as well). Elsewhere in the format, following an April bump of seven-tenths, Salem Media Group’s KLTY “94.9 Your Life … Inspired” is flat in 6+-share (4.2) and market rank (fifth), while First Dallas Media-owned KCBI is up one-tenth to 1.0 (#32 to #30, 6+). Entering the May 2019 sweep, “90.0 Encouraging Music/Words of Hope” had its 6+-stat whittled exactly in half (-.9) via three successive dips (1.8 – 1.6 – 1.5 – .9, 6+). On the heels of surrendering six-tenths in April, Service Broadcasting urban contemporary KKDA-FM “K-104” erases that deficit completely with a similar-size increase (3.0 – 3.6, +.6, 6+) and rockets back into the top ten (#15 to #8). “K-104” was a combined +.9 in February/March (2.7 – 3.2 – 3.6, 6+). Up an overall eight-tenths in April/May (2.2 – 2.5 – 3.0, 6+), Entercom regional Mexican KMVK “La Grande 107.5” progresses from #17 to #15. Conversely, Univision Radio’s similarly-programmed KLNO “Que Buena 94.1” is a combined -1.3 in April/May (4.2 – 3.8 – 2.9, 6+), plummeting from #8 to #16. The two Cumulus-owned country outlets gain one-tenth each: KPLX “99.5 The Wolf” is 4.2 – 4.3 (fifth to fourth, 6+), while KSCS “New Country 96.3” is 3.5 – 3.6 (#13 to #8, 6+). In addition to returning the four-tenths it accrued in April (6.7 – 6.3, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned CHR KHKS halts at four a successive string of up or flat sweeps that netted eight-tenths (5.9 – 6.1 – 6.3 – 6.3 – 6.7, 6+). Nonetheless, “106.1 Kiss – Dallas/Fort Worth’s Hit Music” is #1 for the fifth month in a row; April’s 6.7 is its best 6+-stat since May 2018’s 6.9. On top 12 straight times, “Kiss” shifted to #3 in “Holiday” 2018. Immediately after posting an April improvement of nine-tenths, adult contemporary sibling KDGE “Star 102.1” forfeits eight-tenths (4.4 – 3.6, third to eighth, 6+). In eight successive May 2018 through “Holiday” 2018 sweeps without a loss, KDGE almost tripled (+4.4) its 6+-stat (2.7 – 2.9 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.5 – 3.7 – 5.1 – 7.1, 6+), but then experienced three successive “Holiday” 2018 through March 2019 drops (7.1 – 4.2 – 3.7 – 3.5, 6+). Cluster-mate KEGL “97.1 The Eagle Rocks” has lost six-tenths in five straight (slightly) down or flat moves (3.8 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.6 – 3.2, #10 to #12, 6+). Departing the top ten in addition to “The Eagle” is Entercom adult hits KJKK “100.3 Jack-FM” (3.6 – 3.1, -.5, #10 to #14, 6+). Alternative sibling KVIL is up one-half share in four straight sweeps without a loss (2.0 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 2.5, 6+) but “Alt 103.7” backslides from a three-way tie at #17 to #19.
Houston
Spoken-Word Formats – Off three-tenths (3.8 – 3.5, 6+), iHeartMedia
news/talk KTRH slips from #12 to #13. “News Radio 740” was -.7 in December (4.3 – 3.6, 6+); -.7 in “Holiday” 2018 (3.6 – 2.9, 6+); and +.7 in January 2019 (2.9 – 3.6, 6+). Stuck on .4 (6+) in March and April, co-owned KPRC “AM 950 – Houston’s More Stimulating Talk Radio” loses one-tenth in May to .3 (#29 to #30, 6+).
The flagship of the Houston Astros – iHeartMedia-owned KBME – has more than doubled (+.7) its 6+-stat in three upticks in succession (.5 – .6 – 1.0 – 1.2, #23 to #22, 6+). “Sports Talk 790” is one-tenth ahead of Entercom’s KILT-AM “Sports Radio 610,” which gains two-tenths via three straight up or flat moves (.9 – .9 – 1.1 – 1.1, flat at #23, 6+). Meanwhile, Gow Communications’ sports talk KFNC “ESPN 97.5” logs a .8 (#24 to #25, 6+) for the seventh time in the last nine ratings periods (.8 – .8 – .8 – .8 – .9 – .9 – .8 – .8 – .8, 6+).
Despite being off an overall six-tenths in four straight slips (2.7 – 2.6 – 2.4 – 2.2 – 2.1, 6+), University of Houston news/talk KUHF proceeds from #20 to #19.
Houston Music Formats – Up a combined nine-tenths in April/May (5.0 – 5.2 – 5.9, 6+), Cox Media Group classic rock KGLK “The Eagle” advances from fourth to second with its strongest 6+-showing since October 2017 (5.9, as well). Unchanged at #11, iHeartMedia’s KQBT “93.7 The Beat” extends its consecutive up or flat streak to seven and is +1.1 in that November 2018 through May 2019 period (3.3 – 3.3 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 4.4 – 4.4, 6+). Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KHJK “Air 1 Worship Now” doubles its 6+-stat (.5 – 1.0, +.5, 6+) and checks in at #24. An overall -4.8 in four straight setbacks (12.1 – 8.6 – 8.5 – 8.2 – 7.5 – 7.3, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA “Sunny 99.1” is nonetheless #1 for the 14th sweep in a row. Immediately in advance of this skid, KODA was a cumulative +4.9 via three consecutive gains (7.2 – 7.5 – 9.7 – 12.1, 6+). Seven successive up or flat reports by Cox Media Group classic country KTHT resulted in a net gain of eight-tenths (1.8 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.5 – 2.6, 6+) but “Country Legends 97.1” relinquishes that entire increase (1.8, -.8, 6+) and falls from #18 to #20. The five most recent fluctuations for Univision Radio regional Mexican KLTN “Que Buena 102.9” are: +.5 (January, 6.5 – 7.0, 6+); -.8 (February, 7.0 – 6.2, 6+); +.5 (March, 6.2 – 6.7, 6+); -.6 (April, 6.7 – 6.1, 6+); and now -.6 (6.1 – 5.5, second to fourth, 6+). Prior to plummeting -1.5 in “Holiday” 2018, “Que Buena 102.9” was a collective +3.3 through five successive increases (4.7 – 5.0 – 5.2 – 6.0 – 6.8 – 8.0, 6+). Flat at #17, Liberman Broadcasting’s similarly-formatted KQQK “El Norte 107.9” has lost six-tenths in three consecutive reports without an increase (3.4 – 3.3 – 2.8 – 2.8, 6+).
Both of the market’s country FMs are off one-tenth in May with each dropping one ranker: Entercom’s KILT-FM “100.3 The Bull” is trending 5.2 – 5.0 – 5.2 – 5.1 (fourth to fifth, 6+), while Cox Media Group’s KKBQ “93-Q” has a March 2019 through May 2019 topline of 4.7 – 4.7 – 4.6 (ninth to tenth, 6+). Before losing two-tenths in March, “The Bull” had been +1.7 via three upticks in a row (3.5 – 3.8 – 4.5 – 5.2, 6+); “93-Q” gained eight-tenths in March. This is the fourth report in a row that iHeartMedia alternative KTBZ is without an increase; “94.5 The Buzz” (flat at #14) is off six-tenths in that stretch (3.9 – 3.6 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.3, 6+).
Atlanta
Spoken-Word Formats – Down a combined eight-tenths in April/May (7.1 – 6.6 –
6.3, 6+), Cox Media Group news/talk WSB-AM drops from second to third. It had slipped to the runner-up slot in April, following three straight months at #1. WSB-AM had been on top 37 sweeps in a row before segueing to #2 in “Holiday” 2018. In its final report in the spoken-word format, WYAY “106.6 Where Atlanta Comes to Talk” repeats April’s 6+ market share (#25) and 6+share (.9), taking the station below a one-share for the first time in nearly seven-years (.8, July 2012). Coinciding with the sale from Cumulus Media to Educational Media Foundation, WYAY is now contemporary Christian. Tied with a .3 (6+) are Salem Media Group-owned WGKA “AM 920 The Answer” (.1 – .3, +.2, #31 to #29, 6+) and Entercom’s WAOK “1380 The Voice of the Community” (.4 – .3, -.1, flat at #29, 6+). Elsewhere in the format, iHeartMedia-owned WGST “Talk Radio 640” has lost three-tenths via nine straight down or flat trends (.4 – .3 – .3 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .1 – .1 – .1, #31 to #34, 6+).
While unchanged at #14, Entercom sports talk WZGC “92.9 The Game” is an overall -1.1 in three setbacks in succession (4.0 – 3.7 – 3.1 – 2.9, 6+). At the same time, Dickey Broadcasting’s WCNN “Sports Radio The Fan” is up one-half share in three straight up or flat moves (1.6 – 1.7 – 2.1 – 2.1, 6+), as the AM flagship of the Atlanta Braves carries on at #18.
Following a March decrease of -1.4 (4.8 – 3.4, 6+), City of Atlanta Board of Education news/talk WABE is up three-tenths in April/May (3.4 – 3.6 – 3.7, steady at #11, 6+). Despite dropping three-tenths in April/May (.8 – .6 – .5, 6+), Georgia State University news/talk WRAS advances from #28 to #27.
Atlanta Music Formats – Good news continues for Salem Media Group contemporary Christian WFSH “104.7 The Fish,” which is an overall +3.0 (4.9 – 5.4 – 5.7 – 7.0 – 7.9, 6+) via four successive upticks and repeats at #1. Furthermore, this (7.9) is its best 6+-showing since 8.6 in “Holiday” 2018. The market’s (6+) urban AC share improved by +1.4 (March); deflated by -1.5 (April); and now expands by six-tenths in May as both main format players jump one ranker. Specifically, Radio One’s WAMJ “Majic” is up two-tenths (6.1 – 6.3, fourth to third, 6+), while Cox Media Group-owned WALR “Kiss 104.1 Atlanta’s R&B” improves by four-tenths (5.2 – 5.6, seventh to sixth, 6+). “Majic” was +2.5 via three successive increases (4.4 – 5.4 – 6.3 – 6.9, 6+) but eroded by eight-tenths in April. A combined +1.4 in February/March (4.5 – 5.1 – 5.9, 6+), “Kiss” returned half that increase (-.7) this time last month. For the third time in a row, Entercom urban contemporary WVEE “V-103 The People’s Station” posts a positive bump of two-tenths (5.9 – 6.1 – 6.3 – 6.5, third to second, 6+). On the other hand, Radio One’s similarly-programmed WHTA “Hot 107.9” is an overall -1.3 via three consecutive negative moves (5.2 – 4.6 – 4.2 – 3.9, eighth to tenth, 6+). Frozen on 3.4 (6+) in “Holiday” 2018 and January 2019 before dropping to 3.0 (6+) in February, iHeartMedia’s WWPW gained seven-tenths in March; was down one-tenth in April; and now busts out a +.6 to 4.2 (6+) as “Power 96.1 Atlanta’s #1 Hit Music Station” is back in the top ten (#11 to #8). Its format rival – Cumulus Media-owned WWWQ “Q-100 Atlanta’s New Hits” – has a February 2019 through May 2019 topline of 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.6 (#13 to #12, 6+). “Q-100” logged a +.7 in January, but forfeited six-tenths in February. A combined -1.0 in April/May (5.7 – 5.4 – 4.7, 6+), Cox Media Group adult contemporary WSB-FM “B-98.5” drops from sixth to seventh. Unchanged in ninth-place, iHeartMedia’s WUBL “94.9 The Bull” nets eight-tenths in three straight bumps (3.3 – 3.5 – 4.0 – 4.1, 6+). Before eroding by -1.0 in February, “The Bull” was a collective +1.4 through four straight increases (2.9 – 3.5 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.3, 6+). Its country rival, Cumulus Media-owned WKHX “Kicks 101.5 – Atlanta’s #1 For Country Hits,” forfeits four-tenths (3.1 – 2.7, #14 to #16, 6+). Off three-tenths in March, “Kicks” rebounded from January’s loss of six-tenths with an identical magnitude increase in February (2.6 – 3.2, +.6).
Philadelphia
Spoken-Word Formats – By adding one-tenth to 2.2 (unchanged at #20, 6+),
Entercom’s WPHT “Talk Radio 1210” suspends three straight down or flat moves that accounted for an overall loss of four-tenths (2.5 – 2.5 – 2.3 – 2.1, 6+). Townsquare Media news/talk WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” has dropped one-tenth three reports in a row (1.5 – 1.4 – 1.3 – 1.2, #23 to #24, 6+).
After improving by two-tenths in consecutive ratings periods (5.9 – 6.1 – 6.3, 6+), Entercom’s WIP “Sports Radio 94.1” sputters by seven-tenths to 5.6 (third to sixth, 6+); the Phillies’ flagship was -1.3 in February. The October 2018 through May 2019 topline for Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” (#14 to #15) is 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 2.7 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 2.6 – 2.7 (6+); “The Fanatic” is
the key station of the 76ers and Flyers.
Off a collective -1.0 via four straight sweeps without an increase (5.0 – 4.6 – 4.4 – 4.0 – 4.0, 6+), Entercom’s KYW remains in ninth-place. “News Radio 1060” was down eight-tenths in “Holiday” 2018, but responded in January with a gain of seven-tenths (4.3 – 5.0, 6+).
The three most recent fluctuations for public news/talk WHYY have been by four-tenths (3.0 – 2.6 – 2.2 – 2.6, #18 to #16, 6+).
Philadelphia Music Formats – Having relinquished seven-tenths in April, Beasley Media Group-owned WMMR regains one-half share (5.9 – 6.4, sixth to third, 6+). Prior to April, “93.3 Everything That Rocks” was an overall +1.7 in three successive improvements (4.9 – 6.0 – 6.4 – 6.6, 6+). Ever since Entercom-owned adult contemporary WBEB “Today’s 101.1 More FM” WBEB repeated at #1 in December and “Holiday” 2018, it has been a revolving door for the top spot. Entercom sports talk WIP was there in January; classic hits-oldies sibling WOGL in February; WBEB in March; and Beasley Media Group classic rock WMGK was on top in April. While trending 7.0 – 6.7 – 6.7 (6+), WBEB has its turn again in May. “Today’s 101.1 More FM” was Philly’s market leader from March 2018 through June before being dislodged in July, WBEB was +10.1 (6.5 – 10.4 – 16.6, 6+) just prior to January 2019’s -10.3 (16.3 – 6.3, 6+); it gained one-half share in March. Four up or flat trends in succession by format challenger, iHeartMedia’s WISX “106.1 The Breeze – Relaxing Favorites,” yielded a cumulative +2.3 (2.5 – 3.0 – 4.4 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+). “The Breeze” surrendered three-tenths in April but regains two-tenths in May (4.5 – 4.7, 6+) and carries on in eighth-place. Formerly rhythmic hot AC “Real 106.1,” WISX became adult contemporary “106.1 The Breeze” in mid-November (2018). Meanwhile, the station WBEB succeeds at #1 – “Classic Rock 102.9 MGK” – follows April’s +1.0 to 6.8 (6+) with a loss of two-tenths (6.6, first to second, 6+). WMGK was a combined -1.3 in February/March (7.1 – 6.7 – 5.8, 6+). After busting out April’s +1.2 to 3.4 (6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WKVP “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” returns all but two-tenths of that increase (2.4, -1.0, #12 to #18, 6+). Even though Beasley Media Group-owned WXTU falters by two-tenths to 5.6 (6+), thus interrupting four straight gains that netted +2.2 (3.6 – 4.5 – 4.9 – 5.0 – 5.8, 6+),“92.5 Philly’s Country Station” progresses from seventh to a sixth-place tie. April’s 5.8 is its strongest 6+-showing since July 2018 (5.8, as well). After its +2.1 in January/February (5.0 – 6.3 – 7.1, 6+), Entercom classic hits-oldies WOGL “98.1 – Nobody Plays More 80s” is a combined -1.1 in March/April/May (7.1 – 6.8 – 6.0 – 6.0, fifth to fourth, 6+).
Long Island
Spoken-Word Formats – Repeating at #15, iHeartMedia news/talk WOR “710 The Voice of New York” is up four-tenths in April/May (2.2 – 2.5 – 2.6, 6+). Off one-tenth in consecutive sweeps (1.5 – 1.4 – 1.3, 6+), Cumulus Media news/talk WABC remains at #25.
In addition to repeating at #1, Entercom sports talk WFAN is +1.0 in three straight positive spikes (4.3 – 4.4 – 5.1 – 5.3, 6+). The Yankees’ flagship has its highest 6+-share in Long Island (5.3) since October 2018’s 5.6. Similarly-programmed WEPN not only picks up one-half share (1.8 – 2.3, 6+), “98.7 ESPN New York” cracks the top twenty (#21 to #17).
In three straight slips, WINS lost eight-tenths (3.6 – 3.5 – 3.0 – 2.8, 6+) but the Entercom all-news outlet is up two-tenths in May to 3.0 (#14 to #12, 6+). After logging a one-half share April increase (3.3 – 3.8, 6+), co-owned/similarly-formatted WCBS-AM spirals by nine-tenths to 2.9 (6+) and departs the top ten (#8 to #13).
Down or flat the fourth time in succession for a net loss of eight-tenths (2.1 – 2.0 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.3, 6+), WNYC Broadcasting Foundation news/talk WNYC-FM slips from #24 to #25.
Long Island Music Formats – Tied in fourth-place are Cox Media Group CHR WBLI, up seven-tenths in three bumps in a row (3.9 – 4.0 – 4.4 – 4.6, fifth to fourth, 6+), and iHeartMedia New York’s similarly-formatted WHTZ “Z-100” (4.5 – 4.6, +.1, flat at #4, 6+). These same two group owners are keeping the classic rock contest tight as well. Cox Media Group’s WBAB “102.3 – Long Island’s Only Classic Rock” picks up one-tenth (4.0 – 4.1, steady at #6, 6+), while iHeartMedia New York’s WAXQ “Q-104.3,” which had lost one-half share in three straight decreases (4.0 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.5, 6+), adds four-tenths (3.9, ninth to seventh, 6+). Having shared the lead in April with sports talk cluster-mate WFAN, Entercom classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM is flat at 5.1 (6+) and drops to a second-place tie. An April gain of six-tenths by “101.1 New York’s Greatest Hits” suspended four successive sweeps without an increase that accounted for an overall loss of eight-tenths (5.3 – 4.9 – 4.6 – 4.5 – 4.5, 6+). Up or flat the fifth report in a row for a net gain of seven-tenths (2.6 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 3.3 – 3.3, 6+), iHeartMedia New York rhythmic CHR WKTU advances into the top ten (#11 to #10). Co-owned New York City urban contemporary WWPR “Power 105.1” hasn’t had a decrease in each of the last four reports for a half-share increase (1.6 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 2.1, 6+) and enters Long Island’s top twenty (#21 to #19). Connoisseur Media-owned adult contemporary WKJY “98.3 K-JOY – Long Island’s Place to Relax” falters by a combined eight-tenths in April/May (4.3 – 4.0 – 3.5, sixth to eighth, 6+). In four consecutive declines, hot AC sibling WALK-FM lost over half (-5.5) its 6+-share (10.5 – 6.0 – 5.9 – 5.1 – 5.0, 6+) but “97.5 – Real Variety” applies the brakes with a gain of one-tenth to 5.1 (steady at #2, 6+). A combined +6.1 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (4.4 – 6.5 – 10.5, 6+), WALK-FM spent five straight sweeps at #1 before shifting to the runner-up slot. Entering the top twenty at #20, Entercom alternative WNYL “Alt 92.3” has a September 2018 through May 2019 topline of 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.7 – 1.9 (6+).
Riverside
Spoken-Word Formats – Following seven consecutive sweeps without an increase (.4 – .2 – .2 -.2 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1, #23, 6+), iHeartMedia news talk KKDD “1290 News Talk IE” disappears from print.
The November 2018 through May 2019 topline for co-owned KPWK “Fox Sports Radio 1350 AM” is: .2 – .2 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .2 – .1 – .2 (unchanged at #23, 6+). For the 17th straight sweep, similarly-formatted/Los Angeles Angels-owned (LAA 1, LLC) KLAA “Angels Radio
AM 830” is unlisted.
In April/May, San Bernardino Community College news/talk KVCR has lost more than three-quarters (-1.3) of its 6+-share (1.7 – .8 – .4, #13 to #17, 6+). Down or flat the past three monthlies for a net decrease of two-tenths (.3 – .2 – .1 – .1, 6+), Pasadena City College news/talk KPCC “The Voice of Southern California” erases that shortfall with a +.2 to .3 (#23 to #21, 6+).
Riverside Music Formats – Over and above being a combined +1.2 in April/May (6.8 – 7.2 – 8.0, 6+), KOLA repeats at #1. The Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies outlet last reached the eight-share level (6+) was February 2018 (8.4). Prior to April, KOLA had been at #2 in each of the previous 11 survey periods. It hit #1 exactly one year ago (6.5, May 2018, 6+). Tacking on seven-tenths to April’s +.9 (.3 – 1.2 – 1.9, 6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KLRD enters the top ten (#12 to #10). Entering the April sweep, “Air 1 Worship Now” was a collective -1.9 via four successive negative trends (2.2 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.2 – .3, 6+). Even though Good News Radio’s similarly-formatted KSGN is off eight-tenths in four setbacks in succession (4.1 – 3.9 – 3.8 – 3.6 – 3.3, 6+),“Family Friendly 89.7” progresses from sixth to fifth. Wiping away the collective +.7 it recorded in February/March/April (3.3 – 3.7 – 3.9 – 4.0, 6+) with a May loss of nine-tenths to 3.1 (6+), iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR KGGI “99.1 Riverside’s Hottest Hit Music” slips from fifth to sixth. In three successive improvements, LC Media urban-rhythmic oldies KQIE was a collective +1.6 (2.1 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 3.7, 6+), but “Old School 104.7” is now a combined -1.0 in April/May (3.7 – 3.4 – 2.7, seventh to ninth, 6+). A cumulative -4.1 in six straight declines (10.5 – 8.5 – 8.2 – 8.1 – 7.4 – 7.0 – 6.4, 6+), Entravision’s KLYY “Jose” repeats at #2. In advance of the April ratings period, “Jose” occupied the #1 spot 11 sweeps in succession. December 2018’s 10.5 marked the first time any Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario station reached double-figures (6+) since April 2015, when KLYY recorded a 10.4. All-Pro rhythmic hot AC KHTI “Hot 103.9 – The I.E.’s Best Mix” is without an increase the fourth straight time for a net loss of three-tenths (.8 – .8 – .8 – .7 – .5, #15 to #16, 6+).
San Jose
Spoken-Word Formats – In addition to this being its eighth straight San Jose sweep without an increase for an overall -1.3 (3.0 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.7, 6+), Cumulus Media news/talk KGO’s departs the top twenty (#19 to #21). Co-owned news/talk KSFO, which netted a one-half share increase via four straight up or flat moves (.9 – 1.2 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.5, 6+), surrenders two-tenths to 1.3 (6+) but continues at #23.
Sports talk cluster-mate KNBR “The Sports Leader” repeats April’s 6+-share (4.2) and 6+ market rank (seventh); the Giants flagship was +1.1 in April. In three consecutive positive spikes (1.5 – 1.7 – 1.9 – 2.9, 6+), Entercom sports talk KGMZ “95.7 The Game” nearly doubles (+1.4) its 6+-stat as the key station of the Golden State Warriors zooms from #19 to #11.
All-news sibling KCBS-AM is -1.9 in March/April/May (7.1 – 6.7 – 5.6 – 5.2, fourth to sixth, 6+), directly after a collective +1.4 in four straight ratings periods without a loss (5.7 – 5.9 – 5.9 – 7.1 – 7.1, 6+).
After an April-only stay at #1, Northern California Public Broadcasting news/talk KQED falters by eight-tenths (6.9 – 6.1, 6+) and segues to #2. A combined -.9 in January and February (7.1 – 6.9 – 6.2, 6+), KQED erased that deficit in its entirety with a March gain of nine-tenths. Off two-tenths (.9 – .7, 6+), San Francisco Unified School District news/talk KALW falls from #26 to #27.
San Jose Music Formats – There is considerable movement within San Jose’s top five this month. Most notably is Alpha Media classic hits-oldies KBAY roaring back from April’s -1.5 with a rousing +1.3 (6.2 – 7.5, 6+), allowing “94.5 Bay FM – The Bay’s Greatest Hits” to return to #1 after an April-only stay at #2. Prior to the April sweep, “Bay FM” had been +1.5 via three upticks in a row (6.2 – 6.9 – 7.3 – 7.7, 6+). It was a combined -1.8 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (8.0 – 6.9 – 6.2, 6+), after an overall +1.7 in October/November (6.3 – 6.9 – 8.0, 6+). Hot AC sibling KEZR “Mix 106 – Today’s Best Music” erases April’s loss of eight-tenths with a similar magnitude May increase (5.6 – 4.8 – 5.6, sixth to fourth, 6+). In three straight “Holiday” 2018 through March 2019 up or flat trends, “Mix 106” gained six-tenths (5.0 – 5.0 – 5.4 – 5.6, 6+). Format rival, iHeartMedia’s KIOI “Star 101.3,” is a collective -1.1 in four straight sweeps without a gain (4.6 – 3.8 – 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.5, flat at #8, 6+). “Star” was -.8 (4.6 – 3.8, “Holiday” 2018, 6+); +.8 (3.8 – 4.6, January 2019, 6+); and -.8 (4.6 – 3.8, February, 6+). Steady at #15 is yet another hot AC, Entercom’s KLLC “Alice @ 97.3,” which is trending 2.5 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.5 (6+). Piling on one-half share to April’s massive +1.5 (3.8 – 5.3 – 5.8, 6+), Bonneville’s KUFX “98.5 K-Fox The South Bay’s Classic Rock” jumps from fifth to third. Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KBRG “Amor 100.3” is a combined -.8 in April/May (6.1 – 6.0 – 5.3, third to fifth, 6+), while co-owned regional Mexican KSOL “Que Buena” falters by one-half share (3.4 – 2.9, 6+) and exits the top ten (#10 to #11). University of Southern California classical KDFC is -1.7 in four drops in a row (3.6 – 2.9 – 2.3 – 2.1 – 1.9, #18 to #19, 6+). For the fifth straight month, KOIT-FM “Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites” is unlisted in San Jose. As the result of five straight increases (3.0 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.3 – 6.0 – 10.1, 6+), it was a cumulative +7.1 and reached #1 in “Holiday” 2018. The Bonneville adult contemporary outlet remains in print in the San Francisco report.
Middlesex
Spoken-Word Formats – As a result of four successive setbacks, Townsquare
Media news/talk WKXW is -1.0 (8.1 – 7.9 – 7.5 – 7.3 – 7.1, 6+), but is #1 for the fifth month in a row; “New Jersey 101.5” was +1.2 in January. Up two-tenths (2.8 – 3.0, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WOR climbs from #18 to #16. Cumulus Media news/talk WABC is down or flat the fourth month and has a 40% (-.4) reduction of its 6+-stat (1.0 – 1.0 – 1.0 – .7 – .6, flat at #27, 6+).
Off one-tenth (3.7 – 3.6, 6+), Entercom sports talk/Yankees key station WFAN departs the top ten (#10 to #13). A collective -1.1 in six
straight ratings periods without an increase (2.9 – 2.5 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 1.9 – 1.8, 6+), similarly-programmed WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” answers with a May gain of seven-tenths to 2.5 (6+) and jumps into the top twenty (#24 to #19).
Having improved by seven-tenths in March/April (2.2 – 2.4 – 2.9, 6+), Entercom all-news/Mets flagship WCBS-AM forfeits one-half share to 2.4 (#16 to #20, 6+). Co-owned/similarly-programmed WINS has an August 2018 through May 2019 topline of: 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.4 – 1.6 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 1.8 – 1.6 – 1.7 (6+). WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM stumbles by three-tenths (2.5 – 2.2, #20 to #21, 6+); WNYC was up a combined eight-tenths in January/February (2.0 – 2.5 – 2.8, 6+).
Middlesex Music Formats – By registering a May uptick of seven-tenths (3.4 – 4.1, 6+), Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WMGQ “Magic 98.3 – Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites” catapults into the top five (#14 to #5) and pulls the plug on four straight decreases that led to an overall -2.4 (5.8 – 4.5 – 4.3 – 3.5 – 3.4, 6+). Entercom alternative WNYL “Alt 92.3” is a cumulative +1.2 as a result of five consecutive monthlies without a decrease (2.5 – 3.0 – 3.4 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.7, #13 to #12, 6+). As noted above in the New York City summary, Cumulus Media hot AC WPLJ has been sold to Educational Media Foundation and flips to contemporary Christian. In its last Middlesex-Somerset-Union sweep as a hot AC, however, “New York’s 95.5 PLJ” notches a one-half share uptick (3.3 – 3.8, #15 to #11, 6+). WPLJ posted a +1.0 in April. Moving from an eighth-place tie to a ninth-place stalemate is Entercom’s WNEW “NEW 102.7” (3.8 – 3.9, +.1, 6+), which carries on in the hot AC format. The combination of iHeartMedia’s WKTU “103.5 KTU” dropping one-tenth (2.9 – 2.8, #16 to #17, 6+) and Emmis’ similarly-formatted WQHT “Hot 97” adding one-tenth (2.7 – 2.8, #19 to #17, 6+) results in the two rhythmic CHRs deadlocked at #17. While remaining in the runner-up slot, iHeartMedia New York mainstream CHR WHTZ “Z-100” falters by four-tenths to 5.8 (6+), thus curtailing four straight improvements that netted +1.9 (4.3 – 4.5 – 5.2 – 5.8 – 6.2, 6+). Immediately before this streak, “Z-100” was without an increase four successive times for a collective -1.1 (5.4 – 5.0 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 4.3, 6+).
Monday, June 11, 2018
Premiere Networks’ Sean Hannity to Broadcast Show from Singapore. Nationally syndicated talk radio superstar Sean Hannity is in Singapore all this
week covering President Trump’s Tuesday summit with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un and his Premiere Networks program will emanate from Singapore all week. Hannity, whom Premiere Networks notes was named one of TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2018, will also host his prime-time FOX News Channel programfrom Singapore tonight through Wednesday. In addition to his programs, Hannity will be Tweeting real-time updates during the week-long broadcast special, including breaking news and guest appearances.
iHeartMedia Powers Up Progressive Talk on KKSF, San Francisco. Tomorrow (6/12), Spanish-language sports will disappear from the air on KKSF, San Francisco and iHeartMedia will debut new progressive talk outlet “Real Talk 910” that the company says will feature “forward-thinking political talk
and opinions that embrace the values of social, economic, and environmental justice, along with human rights, democracy, and multiculturalism.” The prime-time lineup includes WYD Media’s 
Stephanie Miller in AM drive, WYD’s Thom Hartmann in late mornings, Cox Media’s consumer advocate Clark Howard in early afternoon, followed by Norman Goldman in afternoon drive. iHeartMedia says the station will present podcast-formatted content, beginning with the iHeartRadio “Daily Dive” news podcast that will air weekdays at 5:40 am, “giving listeners a deeper insight to the news of the prior 24 hours.” Additional podcast originated content will be added to 
weekend programming in the weeks to come. iHeartMedia San Francisco SVP of programming Don Parker says, “Hosts like Stephanie Miller, Thom Hartmann, and Norman Goldman have a history in the market from a time that was nowhere near as politically charged as today’s environment. Given their alignment with the liberal-leaning make-up of the Bay Area, we believe they will resonate well with listeners. In addition, our forward-thinking programming approach will take advantage of being based in the tech capital of the world with an ever-increasing amount of podcast content featured as part of our weekly broadcast schedule.” The company names Cory Callewaert program director of the station.
WLS-AM, Chicago Adds ‘DriveChicago’ Program to Saturday Schedule. A new weekend program dedicated to the automobile has launched on Cumulus Media’s news/talk WLS-AM, Chicago titled, “DriveChicago.” The program is a partnership between the station and the Chicago Automobile Association
(CATA) to create Chicago’s newest radio show all about the city’s storied car culture. It debuted this past Saturday from 8:00 am to 9:00 am. WLS says the show – hosted by station news anchor Jennifer Keiper – is designed to “deliver a lively and frank discussion of everything automotive.” Joining Keiper on the program are long-time automotive expert Mark Bilek and car enthusiast Jim OBrill. WLS-AM OM and program director Pete Bolger says, “Cars are top of mind to our upscale audience. Combining the connections of CATA and our award-winning automotive industry expert, WLS-AM news anchor Jennifer Keiper, ‘DriveChicago’ will be an informative but fun show; one that creates strong on-air and digital content, relevant to our listeners and advertisers.”
iHeartMedia Launches New Asheville Sports Talker. The trimulcast is called “ESPN Asheville 92.9 FM/880 AM/1400 AM, First for Sports in Western North Carolina” and is based at WPEK-AM. It’s also heard on translator W225CJ at
92.9 FM and WMXF-AM at 1400. iHeartMedia Asheville SVP of programming Brian Hall says, “I’m really excited we’re bringing the ESPN format back to sports talk listeners here in Western North Carolina. The ESPN brand aligns perfectly with our platform of top-rated iHeartMedia radio stations here in Asheville.” Programming will include “Golic and Wingo” in mornings. The regionally syndicated David Glenn show airs from 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm and the SEC-centric Paul Finebaum show airs from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The station is also airing University of North Carolina football and basketball play-by-play.
Kellar Radio Talent Institute Opens Today at Appalachian State University. Today in Boone, North Carolina, the Kellar Radio Talent Institute at Appalachian State University starts as the Beasley Radio Talent Institute continues at Emerson College in Boston and the TAB Radio Talent Institute poises to start next week at the University of Tennessee. The mission of the National Radio Talent System is to “discover and coach the talent who can 
be hired today and be the next generation of leaders in broadcasting.” This program has the broadcast profession, the universities, and the National Radio Talent System working together in a collaborative effort to accomplish this unified mission. More than 40 veteran broadcasters from Beasley Media Group, Entercom, Curtis Media, iHeartMedia, Capitol Broadcasting, and others will be leading sessions. Twenty-five students from four universities have been accepted into the Institute. There are no breakout sessions – every student will be in every session, including the RAB Radio Marketing Professional Certification course. NRTS founder Dan Vallie says, “It’s invigorating to all of us to see so many students with a desire for a career in radio. The talent is there, and they are as excited as you and I were when we got into the industry. The collaborative effort from the industry shows the commitment to young talent and the future of the industry.”
TALKERS News Notes. Pictured at right are Westwood One EVP news/talk
Bart Tessler (right) and VP of news/talk Kevin DeLany after receiving the Sigma Delta Chi award from the Society of Professional Journalists for Westwood One News’ coverage of last year’s mass shooting in Las Vegas. The award was bestowed at the National Press Club in Washington, DC on June 8…..Former WILK-AM, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton talk show host Sue Henry is throwing her hat in the ring, challenging fellow Republican Eddie Day Pashinski for his Pennsylvania State Representative seat in the 121st District. Henry was a talk host at Entercom’s WILK for the past 16 years before her exit last month after contract renegotiations stalled.
Trump-Kim Jong Un in Singapore, Trump Overture to Putin, G7 Summit/Trump-Trudeau Spat, Anthony Bourdain Suicide, Tony Awards, Ocean’s 8 Film, Warriors Sweep Cavs for NBA Title, and Capitals Top Golden Knights to Claim Stanley Cup Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The preparation for the summit between President Trump and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un; Trump makes an overture to Russia’s Vladimir Putin; the tense G-7 Summit in Canada and the tiff between President Trump and Justin Trudeau; celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain dead of apparent suicide at 61; Sunday night’s Tony Awards broadcast; the opening weekend of theOcean’s 8 film; the Golden State Warriors sweep the Cleveland Cavaliers to claim the NBA title; and the Washington Capitals beat the Vegas Golden Knights for the Stanley Cup were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Detroit CHR WDZH “98.7 AMP Radio” names Chris Cruise and Julia Lepidi hosts of “The Morning Show with Cruise and Julia,” starting Monday June 18. They replace Jeff Daly and Josh Foreman, hosts of the “Rat & Puff” show. Cruise is a Detroit native who comes back to the Motor City after
having most recently served at Townsquare Media’s country KAWO, Boise “WOW 104.3.” Lepidi has been hosting evenings at 
WDZH since 2015. Entercom Detroit president and market manager Debbie Kenyon comments, “As the leaders in live, local, original audio content, we are excited to bring our community a new show to tune in to while getting their day started. I’m looking forward to hearing Chris and Julia on air together. They have a chemistry that will have listeners laughing out loud and are sure to make for a great morning tandem. I look forward to their success in Detroit.”…..Cort Johnson returns to Alpha Media’s triple A KINK-FM, Portland to serve as afternoon drive host and
assistant program director. Johnson joined KINK and sister news/talk KXL in 2011. He’s most recently been a member of Alpha’s corporate digital content team. KINK content director Ronnie Stanton says, “I am so thrilled to work beside a talent like Cort who brings local knowledge, on-air and digital skills to the table and already understands and loves the intricacies of the KINK brand.”…..In Fredericksburg, Virginia, Alpha Media rebrands CHR WVBX-FM as “LIVE 99.3” from the “99.3 The Vibe” handle. Alpha Media Fredericksburg market manager Beth Vickers comments, “We are very excited to have launched a radio station in Fredericksburg that plays the hit music of today’s hottest artists. Alpha Fredericksburg continues to deliver top quality programming with local and live personalities.”…..In the Land of Lincoln, radio exec Pat Kelley is named market manager for Townsquare Media’s Rockford cluster. He’s been serving in the same capacity at the company’s Fort Collins, Colorado station group. Kelley had served as manager of WLFM-FM, Chicago when it aired smooth jazz…..Entercom announces the call letters WNYL-FM replace the WBMP-FM calls for alternative rock “ALT 92.3.”
Friday, April 1, 2016
Ronn Owens Move from KGO to KSFO the Tip of Iceberg of Changes at Cumulus San Francisco. The company has not issued an official statement about the changes other than to announce KGO legend Ronn Owens’ move from late mornings there to the afternoon drive
slot at sister KSFO, effective Monday (4/4). But there is much more going on, including what is reported be the dismissal of the majority of the news staff at KGO. One can assume the expense of KGO’s news department was one of the big reasons for the new programming direction. Nielsen Audio’s February PPM ratings saw 
CBS RADIO’s all-news KCBS-AM finish #1 with a 6.2 share (6+) compared to KGO’s 1.8 share. There are more changes soon to be announced as Cumulus re-builds KGO and the addition of KSTE, Sacramento-based Armstrong & Getty to the KGO morning slot is one. The duo is moving from iHeartMedia’s crosstown KKSF, San Francisco where it’s been heard for the past few years. On the music side, Cumulus also let the air staff at triple A KFOG go, and is running without jocks as that station announces it is entering a “transformational time.” The station is expected to remain some sort of rock outlet.
Stephanie Miller to Assume Mornings at KKSF; Station Positioned as Progressive Talker. With the departure of Armstrong & Getty from the morning daypart at iHeartMedia’s KKSF, San Francisco “Talk 910” for mornings at KGO, the company announces WYD Media-syndicated
Stephanie Miller is the new morning drive personality. Speaking about the changes, iHM San Francisco SVP of programming Don Parker says, “The Bay Area is arguably the most progressive market in the nation. This move aligns ‘Talk 910’ with the predominant sentiment of the region in all prime dayparts, delivering compelling progressive or lifestyle content throughout the day.” The new lineup is: Stephanie Miller from 6:00 am to 10:00 am, 
Gil Gross from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, Cory (Callewaert) and Joel (Riddell) from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm, “The Doghouse with JV & Elvis” (a.k.a. Jeff Vandergrift and Dan Lay) from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, Los Angeles-based Mo’ Kelly from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm and Fox News Radio’s Alan Colmes from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Mo’ Kelly, a.k.a. Morris W. O’Kelly, hosts on weekends at iHeartMedia’s news/talk KFI, Los Angeles where he’s heard from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
The Presidential Race Tops the Talkers TenTM for Week of March 28-April 1. The activities of the candidates for president were once again the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the aftermath of the Brussels and Pakistan terror attacks. Coming in at #3 was the battle against Islamic State followed by European migrant troubles at #4. The Talkers TenTM 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. View this week’s entire chart here.
PPM Analysis: News/Talk. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents an analysis of the performances of news/talk-formatted stations in PPM markets based on Nielsen Audio’s February 2016 survey. Yesterday, we published a report on the all-news format. IN this report, see how news/talk stations have progressed since the beginning of the presidential primary season last February. Last month, there were 15 news/talk outlets that ranked in the top 5 (6+) in their respective markets – four ranked #1: WSB-AM, Atlanta; WLW, Cincinnati; KSL, Salt Lake City; and WKXW, Trenton (Middlesex-Somerset-Union market). See charts showing fluctuations from February 2015, market share over the past six surveys, and comparing all-news and news/talk stations. Read it here.
’97.1 The Fan’ in Columbus Adds Local Show with Tim Hall & Beanie Wells. Columbus sports talker WBNS “97.1 The Fan” is moving former Ohio State and NFL running back Beanie Wells (right) into daylight to co-host the 10:00 am to 12:00 noon show with Tim Hall (left). The duo had been hosting “The Buckeye Show,” airing evenings from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Program director Jay Taylor tells WBNS-TV, “This is a great opportunity for our loyal and craving audience for get more local sports talk. It also brings another exciting layer to our team on the highest-rated ESPN affiliate in the country.”
New Early Morning Show Makes ESPN Radio Live 24 Hours on Weekdays. Monday’s launch of “First and Last with Lundberg & Golic Jr.” means the ESPN Radio schedule will be live round the clock on weekdays. The 4:00 am to 6:00 am show co-hosted by Robin Lundberg and Mike Golic Jr. will “recap the previous night’s highlights and delve into the coming day’s stories and will be preceded by a two-hour edition of ‘SportsCenter AllNight’ (2:00 am to 4:00 am).” ESPN audio network content VP David Roberts says, “We are constantly looking for new, aggressive ways of serving sports fans. Providing sports talk and information live, around the clock during the week underscores our commitment to offering our listeners another opportunity to engage with our network through a strong opinion-based program. Robin Lundberg and Mike Golic Jr. will set the table perfectly for our flagship franchise, ‘Mike and Mike.’”
FOX News Radio to Launch Willie Robertson Podcast. Reality television star Willie Robertson of “Duck Dynasty” fame is the host of a new podcast series debuting on Monday (4/4). FOX News Radio says the weekly program will focus on faith and family along with occasional celebrity guest interviews. Robertson will also serve as a FOX News contributor. In conjunction with his role as CEO of Duck Commander, Robertson acts as both a television personality and executive producer for A&E’s “Duck Dynasty” and The Outdoor Channel’s “Buck Commander.” He has also co-written a New York Times bestseller titled, The Duck Commander Family with his wife, Korie Robertson.
Thursday, December 18, 2014
PodcastOne, Associated Press Enter Into Collaboration. The arrangement will deliver real-time news reports in on-demand podcasts. PodcastOne chairman and chief executive officer Norm Pattiz comments that, “The podcast industry is moving faster than ever [and] this is another example of PodcastOne investing heavily in the future of the platform. This has never been done before, because there has never been a podcast platform with the technology, excellent content, and sheer number of shows with enough audience to cover all time-periods every day of every week. The Associated Press recognizes the opportunity, and it will be a great to work with. This cutting-edge movement is another step in the digital evolution of spoken-word audio.” Director of broadcast markets for The Associated Press Michael Fabiano remarks, “We are very pleased to provide AP news and information for PodcastOne and industry pioneer Norm Pattiz. The Associated Press has multiple forms of content, including text, images, video, audio and assignment services for a variety of emerging digital platforms.” Starting next month (January 2015), PodcastOne will be able to make the most current 60-second AP news feature available to listeners at the exact time the podcast is downloaded.
Parker Picks Up Sacramento Duties. In addition to overseeing programming for iHeartMedia‘s six San Francisco stations, vice president of programming Don Parker expands his role to include the company’s six-station Sacramento cluster. iHeartMedia executive vice president of programming Brad Hardin comments, “Don’s programming leadership in San Francisco has resulted in significant increased listenership and engagement for our brands. The additional responsibility for our Sacramento stations is well deserved and I look forward to partnering with Don to grow our reach in Northern California.” According to Parker, “Our Sacramento stations have evolved greatly. With market veteran John Geary at the helm, our leadership team and talent in the Sacramento market is shaping up to be among the best in the business. I am grateful to iHeartMedia for the amazing opportunity.” The six Sacramento stations involved include country KBEB “B-92.5”; news/talk hybrid KFBK-AM/FM; rhythmic hot AC KHYL “The Beat of Sacramento”; adult hits KQJK “Jack-FM”; and talk KSTE “Talk 650.” Parker joined iHeartMedia San Francisco in 2009 as operations manager. He previously was NextMedia‘s vice president of programming and has been a PD in Los Angeles, Houston, Phoenix, Las Vegas and Fresno.
Westwood One News Debuts. Pictured here doing the very first newscast for the new Westwood One News is correspondent Michael Toscano. The new news service was announced by Cumulus Media earlier this fall and is “powered” by CNN. The company says Westwood One News was “the only network bureau and staff reporting out of Cuba Wednesday on the major breaking story of a change in relations and the release of Alan Gross – held hostage for five years.” WW1 also says correspondent Steve Kastenbaum was in Philadelphia, reporting live on the unfolding story of six people shot dead and the killer’s subsequent suicide.
WYD Media Ad Sales to Rep Fox News Radio Shows. Beginning on December 29, the national advertising sales for Fox News Radio’s long-form talk shows – John Gibson, Alan Colmes, Tom Sullivan, Kilmeade & Friends and “Fox News Sunday” – will be handled by WYD Media Ad Sales. WYD will provide customizable opportunities for the ad community while also developing alternative programming options. WYD Media Ad Sales president John Murphy says, “This is a great way to kick off the New Year. Fox News Radio is a powerful brand, particularly within the spoken-word format. Their on-air personalities are proven brand influencers who provide a loyal audience to the advertising marketplace.” Fox News Radio is currently repped by Westwood One.
Two Join Fox News Radio. Joining the Fox News Radio operations are Jon Decker and Gurnal Scott. Decker comes aboard as a White House correspondent based in Washington. Scott will serve as a national correspondent. At the same time, Fox News Radio’s Jessica Golloher transitions from her role as a national reporter based in New York to Middle East correspondent based in Jerusalem.
Odds & Sods. WBAL, Baltimore welcomes Clinton Box as general sales manager. He arrives at the Hearst Radio talk station from similar duties at iHeartMedia San Francisco…..As tipped by Chicago media writer Robert Feder, Chicago journalist Dan Miller is taking over the hosting duties of the television version of the syndicated “Beyond the Beltway” program as Bruce DuMont steps down from that role. DuMont will still host the radio edition of the show.
Four New Air Personalities Join Yahoo! Sports Radio. With the New Year, Yahoo! Sports Radio welcomes four new talents to the lineup: longtime sports talk host Anthony Pepe daily from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon; Matt Perrault for weekends 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm; Tim Murray for Sundays 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm; and Jason McIntyre for Sundays 11:00 am to 2:00 pm (all times ET). Perrault will put the spotlight on the week in sports and Murray will focus on professional and college football and college hoops. McIntyre is founder and publisher of The Big Lead and will provide a roundup of the week’s sports headlines and entertainment.
Sony Pictures Hack Case, 2016 Presidential Prospects, Cuba Relations Issue, Russian Economy/Sinking Oil Prices, Taliban School Massacre, and Battle Against ISIS Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (12/17). Sony Pictures’ decision to halt the Christmas Day release of “The Interview” after the company’s computers were hacked and theaters threatened with violence; the potential candidates for president in 2016; a call by President Obama to renew relations with Cuba; the troubled Russian economy and the sinking price of oil; the massacre of more than 150 school children in Pakistan by the Taliban; and the battle against ISIS were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Thursday, October 30, 2014
Ed Baxter Named Midday Host at KKSF, San Francisco. Longtime market pro Ed Baxter is named the permanent 10:00 am to 1:00 pm host at iHeartMedia’s KKSF, San Francisco “Talk 910.” The Bay Area Radio Hall of Famer was a fixture on crosstown KGO for more than 30 years where he served as news anchor in both morning and afternoon drive slots. iHeartMedia San Francisco VP of programming Don Parker writes on the station’s website, “We are thrilled to add Ed Baxter to the ‘Talk 910’ lineup. Ed has a tremendous audience base from his many years on the air in the Bay Area, as well as a fantastic track record of success for advertisers. Our commitment to live and local talk throughout prime-time programming is unparalleled in the Bay, making ‘Talk 910’ San Francisco’s Talk Station.”
Jennifer Lipp to Leave KMJ-AM/FM, Fresno. Twenty-year Fresno market radio personality Jennifer Lipp is leaving her morning drive co-host role at Cumulus Media’s news/talk duo KMJ-AM and FM. The Fresno Bee reports that Lipp – who is partnered with John Broeske on the John and Jen show – and her family are moving from the area because her husband has accepted a position in Arkansas. The Philadelphia native also worked in the Fresno market at rhythmic oldies KFBT “The Beat 103.7” and rock KKBZ “The Blaze 105.1” before joining KMJ two years ago.
TALKERS Magazine to Present 2014 Heavy Hundred of Sports Talk. On Friday (10/31), the editors of TALKERS magazine will present the third annual Heavy Hundred of Sports Talk – The 100 Most Important Sports Talk Radio Hosts in America. This list will rank sports talk hosts, duos or ensembles from 1 to 100, based upon a set of criteria that includes a combination of hard and soft factors. The genre of sports talk radio has evolved greatly and grown exponentially over the past 10 years to go from being a fringe format to an important sub-genre of spoken-word radio programming. With this in mind, the editors of TALKERS debuted the Heavy Hundred of Sports Talk in 2012 to acknowledge the hard-working air personalities on sports talk radio. The results of this list are, admittedly, subjective. Being true to the realities of the media business, ratings and revenue are two of the major factors – some would say they are the only factors worth considering – but the editors also took into account other qualities that help create a list that is reflective of the industry’s diversity and total flavor and still give credit where credit is due. Those qualities include: courage, effort, impact, recognition, service, talent and uniqueness. The other concrete qualification for inclusion is hosts must be working – that is, have a regularly scheduled professional show on the air at a minimum of one terrestrial or satellite radio station – at the time of publication. Look for this annual feature to be published at Talkers.com tomorrow!
Round Three of October PPM Data Released. The third of four rounds of October 2014 PPM data from Nielsen Audio has been released for 12 markets including: Portland, Charlotte, Pittsburgh, Sacramento, San Antonio, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Kansas City, Orlando, and Columbus. The survey period was September 11 through October 8. TALKERS magazine’s sister publication RadioInfo has all of the numbers from subscribing stations here. In addition, managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his “Ten Takeaways” from this batch of ratings on the main page at RadioInfo.com here.
Ramping Up to Election Day. Tuesday’s mid-term elections are right around the corner and “The Wall Street Journal This Morning” went to the iconic Independence Mall in Philadelphia to gauge how Americans are feeling about the economy, their wages, their job security, and their small businesses. Host Gordon Deal and news anchor Gina Cervetti will present comments from the people they talk to during special segments of the show on Monday and Tuesday in a feature called “Voices of the Voters.”
Odds & Sods. KBET, Las Vegas talk show host Heidi Harris is honored by being profiled in the 2014 edition of the Distinguished Women in Nevada publication. Harris, a longtime Las Vegas media personality, hosts the 6:00 pm hour on KBET…..WPHT, Philadelphia talk show host Dom Giordano (who recently re-upped with the CBS RADIO news/talk outlet) is being honored in chocolate! Gertrude Hawk Chocolates will issue “The Dom Bar.” The candy will have a picture of Giordano on the label that will say, “It’s Dom Time.”…..Westwood One announces that Mary Giesen has been hired to serve as vice president, sales planning. It’s a homecoming for Giesen, who previously worked at Westwood One in several sales planning capacities. Her responsibilities this time will include strategic development of the company’s sales initiatives, including management of commercial inventory; sales data; pricing; and performance.
New Online Hindi Radio Station Offering Music and Talk Shows Targeted to America’s Growing Indian Population. A new online radio station called Mera Sangeet (www.merasangeet.com), based in the Northridge area of Los Angeles and owned by its CEO, the dynamic Indian-born actress, model, entrepreneur and philanthropist Pooja Batra, is now streaming on the web with a wide variety of Hindi music and general interest (Indian issues and pop culture) talk shows. The station’s management, which also includes noted Bollywood film-maker Anshuvijay Rode, describes its target
audience (the Indian diaspora) as “the most affluent ethnic minority in the US.” Many of the station’s impressive lineup of on-air personalities, described as “RJs” (radio jockeys) include household names and stars from India’s show business and Bollywood (cinema) scene. The business model of the fledgling operation consists of two basic entities – the national Mera Sangeet LA stream that emanates from Los Angeles with the bulk of its programming and local franchises across the US (Mera Sangeet USA). The station is offering interested and qualified parties across the country the opportunity to invest in these local franchises which would involve generating a local programming and sales component to compliment the national content provided from Los Angeles. The station is also interested in meeting with potential general investors. Interested parties can call Anshuvijay Rode in LA at 323-203-7445.
KQTH, Tucson Raises $121,000-plus for Fisher House Foundation. On Wednesday (10/29), Journal Broadcast Group news/talk KQTH-FM, Tucson held a 12-hour radiothon to raise funds to help build a Fisher House at the Southern Arizona Veterans Administration Health Care Center. During the broadcast, the station helped bring in $121,178 for the cause. Pictured here celebrating the success of the event are (from left to right): KQTH producer Shane Dunn, program director and morning host Bill White, afternoon host James T. Harris and Arizona Fisher House vice chair Rick Grinnell. Other KQTH personalities who participated in the radiothon were Jon Justice, Ben Buehler Garcia and news anchor John Harper. Stations interested in learning how to support the Fisher House Foundation which provides housing for veterans and the families of military personnel being treated at military hospitals can contact Marshall Adams at radio@fisherhouse.org.
Special Election Night Guest. Posing for a photo with U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (right) is Salem Radio Network vice president/news & talk programming Tom Tradup (left). Both share a laugh over an Obama t-shirt. The two got together in advance of Tuesday night’s marathon mid-term election coverage on the network in which Cruz will play a role as one of a number of high-profile guests who will join anchor (and SRN-syndicated talk show host) Hugh Hewitt that evening.
Domestic Ebola Cases, Mid-Term Elections, Battle Against ISIS, 2016 Presidential Hopefuls, and World Series Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (10/29). The domestic Ebola cases and controversy surrounding quarantine policies; next Tuesday’s mid-term elections and the possibility of a majority change in the U.S. Senate; the U.S.-led coalition against ISIS in Iraq and the cases of Western youths joining the militant Islamic organization; the potential candidates for president in 2016; and the Royals-Giants World Series were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Friday, December 6, 2013
NEW Rosters Coming to SF Talk Outlets. In the banner story first published yesterday (see next item), TALKERS detailed Clear Channel‘s plans for significant changes involving heritage Los Angeles talker KFI and under-performing sibling KTLK-AM – which will be re-branded as “The Patriot.” The City of Angels, however, is not the only locale where the company is mixing things up with its talk properties. As of the first of the year, modified talent lineups will surface on a pair of Clear Channel San Francisco facilities. Changes on “960 KNEW” will include Rush Limbaugh on from 9:00 am – 12:00 Noon, Sean Hannity 12:00 Noon – 3:00 pm, and Andy Dean from 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm; Glenn Beck will
continue to air in morning drive (6:00 am – 9:00 am). Casts from Fox News Radio will air at the top and bottom of every hour. Down the dial five clicks to the left on “910 KKSF,” Armstrong & Getty will add an hour (6:00 am – 10:00 am); Frosty Stilwell moves to 10:00 am -1:00 pm; and Randi Rhodes (1:00 pm – 3:00 pm) segues from KNEW. Gil Gross will remain in his afternoon drive slot (3:00 pm – 7:00 pm). Vice president of programming Don Parker comments, “We are excited to continue to grow the live and local programming on ‘Talk 910’ with the expansion of Armstrong & Getty. We are also thrilled to welcome the Bay Area’s leading midday talk personality, Randi Rhodes, to ‘Talk 910.’ The new lineup on ‘960 KNEW’ will be a destination for conservative listeners who follow America’s top personalities – all in one place.” Among persons 6+ this November (PPM), KKSF-AM ranked #17 (2.1, +.1 from October’s 2.0), while KNEW finished at #31 (flat from October’s .4).
Clear Channel Los Angeles Blows Up Progressive Talk KTLK; Creates New Conservative Talker. Progressive talk radio takes another blow as Clear Channel Media + Entertainment prepares to flip KTLK, Los Angeles to “The Patriot AM 1150” in the New Year with the following lineup: Glenn Beck, Rush
Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, PM drive TBA, and Clark Howard. That leaves a midday hole at sister KFI (Limbaugh airs there from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon right now) as the station moves Bill Carroll to the 10:00 am 
to 1:00 pm slot leaving the 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm show host TBA for now. In a statement, program director Robin Bertolucci says, “Los Angeles is one of the most dynamic radio markets in the United States and we want to present the best of talk radio from across the spectrum. These changes are designed to give our current and future programming a home where listeners can find and enjoy their favorite talk show hosts.” Some of the current KTLK air talent will remain with the company. PM drive host David Cruz will still talk local issues Saturdays from 12:00 to 2:00 pm on KTLK. Cruz will also join the KFI news team, reporting local news for the station in addition to his weekend community show. Mo’ Kelly adds another weekend edition of his program to the KFI weekend schedule. His show will air on both Saturday and Sunday from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The move takes Stephanie Miller, Randi Rhodes and Bill Press off the schedule.
KOGO, San Diego PD Cliff Albert’s Status in Question. The local radio blog SanDiegoRadio.org is reporting that sources tell it longtime KOGO, San Diego program director Cliff Albert (along with talk host Steve Yuhas) has left the building. This has not been confirmed and Albert’s “Cliff’s Notes” commentary on the KOGO website is still active – often a dismissed staffer’s likeness and content are purged upon leaving. Albert has been programming KOGO for the past 17 years.
Steve Murphy to Retire from WCCO, Minneapolis. After 33 years with the station, morning anchor and managing editor Steve Murphy is retiring from the CBS Radio news/talk station at the end of the year. Murphy says that his wife recently retired from her nursing job and he’s ready to hang up the headphones and stay up past 7:30 in the evening. CBS Minneapolis SVP and market manager Mick Anselmo says, “He’ll be sorely missed. Steve is a wonderful example of a professional radio journalist with a great sense of news, a confident, soothing but direct delivery and an uncompromising work ethic that will be difficult to duplicate.” Murphy himself made the news last month after getting mugged and beaten while on the way to work at 2:30 am. He says that incident had no impact on his decision but rather the idea of sleeping past 2:30 am was a huge factor.
Lincoln Financial Media Appoints Prain DOS in Miami. Lincoln Financial Media announces broadcast pro and media sales consultant Jim Prain is named director of sales for the company’s Miami cluster that includes: AC WLYF, “LITE 101.5,” classic hits WMXJ, “MAGIC 102.7,” and sports talk WAXY-AM/FM “104.3 The Ticket.” LFM Miami SVP and general manager Maureen Lesourd states, “I have had the privilege to know Jim throughout his career and find him a highly credible, accountable and strategic thinker. His leadership will help propel our sales effort to meet the growing demands of our clientele and maximize all the on air, online and social media assets we have to offer.” Prain’s media career includes 25-plus years of media management experience in major and large markets, including positions at companies such as ABC, ABC/Cap Cities and Cox Media. He also invested two years as a small business owner in Detroit, where he launched a power sports company. Prain comments, “I’ve had the pleasure of working with Maureen and LFM CEO Don Benson over the years and feel this is the perfect fit for me professionally and personally. My passion for helping our customers, combined with the recent benefits of owning a small business, affords me a unique perspective on both sides of the marketing equation. I’m excited to get started.”
Norm Pattiz and PodcastOne Featured in Bloomberg Businessweek Piece. Westwood One founder and current chairman and CEO of Courtside Entertainment Group and subsidiary PodcastOne, Norm Pattiz, is featured in a piece in Bloomberg Businessweek where he projects revenue from podcasts for his company will reach $8 million for this year. He expects that figure to hit $15 million in 2014. The piece includes more figures: Pattiz says his 200 programs on PodcastOne are averaging 100 million downloads per month and have attracted advertising attention from such corporations as Ford Motor, 21st Century Fox’s Fox, Walt Disney’s ABC, and Hulu.com. Read the entire piece here.
Odds & Sods. Sports talk host Dan Sileo – most recently with WMEN, West Palm Beach – is doing holiday fill-in work at Broadcast Company of the Americas-owned sports talker XEPRS, San Diego “Mighty 1090.” Sileo – who’s also worked at WQAM, Miami and WDAE, Tampa, to name a few – tells TALKERS magazine he’ll be doing morning drive (6:00 am to 9:00 am) from December 23 through 31…..Former WPGB, Pittsburgh morning team Jim Quinn and Rose Tennent hosted a live broadcast in conjunction with a Toy Treasures charity event at a Pittsburgh-area hair salon this morning. The pair signed copies of their book, Thanking Our Soldiers…..Galaxy Communications-owned classic rock duo WTKW, Bridgeport, New York and WTKV, Oswego, New York (Syracuse market) sign up with CBS Radio to be the local affiliate for New York Yankees baseball for the 2014 season.
TALKERS Weekly Affiliate Roundup. Premiere Networks’ Sean Hannity becomes part of KTLK, Los Angeles’ lineup in the New Year…..“Free Talk Live” with Ian Freeman and Mark Edge joins the programming lineup at WMEL, Melbourne, Florida…..Genesis Communications Network-syndicated “Freedom Feens” with Michael W. Dean and Neema Vedadi is added to the program schedule at WKVL, Knoxville and KINX-FM, Great Falls, Montana.
ObamaCare Criticism Tops Talkers TenTM for Week of December 2-6. Criticism of the rollout of the Affordable Care Act was again the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week. At #2 was the decline in support for President Obama from the Millennial generation. Following at #3 was the Rush Limbaugh–Pope Francis Marxism flap followed by the Iran nuclear weapons talks and the NSA cell phone location database story tied at #4. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week. It is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS and is published every Friday at Talkers.com. To view this week’s entire chart, click here.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
FM Talk Winning in PM Drive with Alan Cox Show on Cleveland’s Legendary Rocker WMMS-FM. The Alan Cox show is quietly defying the conventional wisdom about what talk targeting younger demos on FM is all about. Ensconced in afternoon drive on Clear Channel’s legendary rock outlet WMMS-FM, Cleveland, Cox’s success is not a widely told tale in the radio industry, in part because it doesn’t appear to be a piece of a corporately directed programming puzzle with companywide ambitions. Cox credits local management for daring to be innovative with spoken-word programming outside the realms of news/talk and sports talk. “’MMS, everybody knows, is a legendary station and management had the foresight to realize music on FM is kind of going away and to see if it can work with two talk products and it has worked amazingly well. The foresight that brought them to try this hybrid station also makes them realize that you have to honor the heritage the station has but everything has to move forward.” Read this entire story here.
Gil Gross Replaces Gene Burns in PM Drive at KKSF, San Francisco. Talk radio legend Gene Burns is not going away from Clear Channel Media and Entertainment San Francisco as he continues to rehab from a stroke he suffered last December but cluster director of operations Don Parker gives the PM drive slot to Gil Gross, who’s been one of those filling in for Burns since January. Parker states, “I’m thrilled to have Gil Gross aboard full time for the Bay Area’s only live and local afternoon drive talk show. With his extensive background in network news, everyone in news/talk radio knows the name Gil Gross. I couldn’t be happier to have KKSF be his new home. NewsTalk 910 has been very fortunate to have the highest caliber of talent filling in for Gene Burns since January. I’d like to thank John Rothman, Ed Baxter and Rosie Allen for their contributions and for continuing to play a role on NewsTalk 910 moving forward.” Burns will continue to blog at newstalk910.com and his Saturday “Dining Around” program will remain on the program schedule with Joel Riddell hosting . Additionally, John Rothman is named the station’s political analyst. He’ll contribute to the station’s talk shows and newscasts as well as serve as host for KKSF’s 2012 election coverage. Baxter and Allen will remain with the station for fill-in and blogging duties. On his new position, Gross states, “I am thrilled to keep the live, local talk flame alive in the Bay area. From the Occupy movement to Oscar Grant or the struggles of our economy, it’s important for the Bay area to have a platform to discuss today’s most pressing topics. I look forward to having my friend and colleague, Gene Burns, back in the line-up. I also look forward to building the future at NewsTalk 910, a unique station that will not be one point of view all day long.”
Tony Kornheiser Negotiating for Long-Term Deal to Remain on WTEM, Washington. Washington, DC-based sports media personality Tony Kornheiser tells his audience he hopes to be assured his radio talk show will be heard on Red Zebra’s WTEM – ESPN 980 for “another two years, at least.” The Washington Post reports director of programming Chuck Sapienza hinted the two sides are negotiating, quoting him saying, “Our goal has always been to have Tony with ESPN 980 long term, and we hope to have an official announcement soon.” Kornheiser will take much of the summer off from his radio show telling his audience he will do a few weeks of ESPN’s “Pardon the Interruption” but will not do radio in July or August.
Terry Gross Celebrates 25 Years of National Syndication for “Fresh Air.” Tomorrow “Fresh Air” host Terry Gross will celebrate her 25th anniversary in national syndication via NPR. Gross began the program on WHYY-FM, Philadelphia – where the show is still based – in 1975. Gross tells the Philadelphia Daily News’ Dan Gross (no relation), “I fell in love with radio the moment I started doing it. I still find it a privilege to be able to talk to and engage in a pretty personal level with people whose work I respect.” Surprisingly for some, Gross tells the paper she counts Howard Stern among those whom she’d like to interview but has not. She says she’s a fan of his radio show.
Carmichael Dave Out at KHTK, Sacramento. The producer and sidekick to morning host and PD Don Geronimo and host of his own midday show exits the CBS Radio sports outlet. His tweets about his exit are vague but it appears Carmichael Dave is the victim of a budget-related maneuver. He tweets, “As of today I am no longer a part of CBS Radio…I’m getting a lot of response that this was contract related. I asked for nothing. I can’t go into details. Just know that I love the station and the people.” The station is airing DirecTV/Premiere’s Dan Patrick show in middays.
Analysis: The Legal Basis for the Bob Lonsberry Decision. TALKERS legal editor Steven J.J. Weisman reviews the recent ruling by the Appellate Division, Fourth Department of New York in the defamation case filed against WHAM, Rochester talk show host Bob Lonsberry. Weisman writes that for talk hosts who make a living expressing their opinions, it’s important to note that “not all opinion is protected, but when it is made about a matter of public concern, the speaker is protected by the First Amendment.” Read Steven J.J. Weisman’s piece here.
Odds ‘n’ Sods. CBS Radio names Brian Thomas vice president of programming for its Tampa cluster that includes sports talk WQYK – 1010AM Sports…..Syndicated Solutions, Inc. begins distribution of Chuck Woolery’s “Save Us Chuck” political commentary feature on June 4. The game show legend states, “I started in radio and just love it! During all my years on television, I’ve come to realize that radio is truly the only medium where I can connect one-on-one with the audience and help to create real change.”…..CBS Radio’s KNX, Los Angeles visits the foothill cities of the San Gabriel Valley as part of its “KNX on Your Corner” remote broadcast series. The broadcast will emanate from the Monrovia Coffee Company in the heart of Old Town Monrovia on June 1…..WTKK-FM, Boston midday talk host Doug Meehan’s listeners are launching a campaign to get the host an on-air audition with Kelly Ripa on ABC TV’s “Live! With Kelly.” Meehan has recorded his pitch to be on the show and posted it on WTKK’s website. He’s encouraging listeners to visit the “Live! With Kelly” website touting Meehan for a shot at a guest host appearance…..Former WBT-AM/FM, Charlotte regular fill-in host Wayne Powers wins his primary contest for a seat on the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners.
First Caller Puts Curse on New Talk Show Host. What a way to start a new gig! Gregg Henson, the station’s program director who replaced afternoon drive host Pat Miller on WOWO, Fort Wayne, was greeted with a first call that sounded like something out of a Steven King novel. Not only did the listener with a heavy accent voice his disapproval of Henson and insult him by saying he is “a snake” who “doesn’t bring anything to the table” — he went on to actually put a curse on him! Check THIS out. Listen to the audio here.
2012 Presidential Race, Obama Gay Marriage Issue, Feds to Sue Arizona Sheriff Arpaio, and Putin Snubs Obama Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/9). The 2012 presidential campaign, President Obama’s change of heart on the gay marriage issue, the federal lawsuit being filed against Arizona Sheriff Joe Arpaio and Russian President Vladimir Putin’s backing out of meeting with President Obama and the G-8 were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Media Veteran and Fenway Park Announcer Carl Beane Dies in Auto Crash. Fenway Park’s voice of the Boston Red Sox, Carl Beane, died Wednesday at age 59 after suffering a heart attack and crashing his car while driving. Beane won the Fenway Park gig after the 2002 season. He was a radio sports announcer, talk host, news reporter and more during his long career. In addition to stringing for AP, ESPN and SiriusXM, Beane had worked at WBZ, Boston and spent many years in the 1990s working at then talk/music hybrid WESO, Southbridge.
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Feature Series: Walter Sabo on FM Talk. Sabo Media president Walter Sabo writes a special four-part series on the successful implementation of talk on FM this week at Talkers.com. In the first installment, Sabo explains the importance of proper format execution in order to build cume. “You rarely hear formatic structure on any talk station – you’ll hear long periods without a host name, station name, phone number – and that’s why talk stations tend to have low, vulnerable cumes. Applying formatics to talk is hard work, but completely achievable.” Too often, talk radio shows sound formatically different from one another even though they are placed back-to-back on a station. That can be addressed by coaching formatics, says Sabo. “That means that your hosts have to handle all elements in the same manner as every other host, just like music DJs. That does not mean they should have the same opinions. That is not desirable.” Read more here.
Chris Sargent Named Operations Manager at Clear Channel Portland. Chris “Sarge” Sargent has been serving as program director at Clear Channel Media and Entertainment’s news/talk KEX, progressive talk KPOJ and classic hits KFBW-FM (where he also handled morning drive) in Portland, Oregon. Now, he’s upped to operations manager for the seven-station cluster. Vice president and market manager Robert Dove states, “I’ve been fortunate to have Chris Sargent working alongside Tommy Austin the last three years and the luxury of having two operations managers in the building, which certainly made my search a lot easier. I know Chris’s leadership along with the help and guidance of Brad Hardin, our senior vice president of programming, will lead to continued ratings success and revenue growth for our Clear Channel cluster in Portland.”
Cumulus Media Flips Pensacola FM to Talk. The former adult hits WJLQ-FM, Pensacola changes call letters to WCOA-FM and begins a partial simulcast of sister news/talk WCOA-AM. The new News Talk 100.7 is simulcasting the 6:00 am to 8:00 am hours of WCOA-AM’s morning drive show with Jim Sanborn and Don Parker, then breaks away to air the WMAL, Washington-based Chris Plante show until 11:00 am. Cumulus Media Network’s Mike Huckabee follows from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. The rest of the day is: Phil Valentine from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm, Cumulus Media’s Mark Levin from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm and John Batchelor from 8:00 pm to 12:00 midnight and Cumulus Media’s “Red Eye Radio” for overnights.
Richard Neer: Prioritize to Stay on Top of the Busy Sports World. TALKERS sports editor Richard Neer offers some thoughts on staying atop of the busy sports world – especially now with NHL and NBA playoffs, MLB action and NFL offseason activity heating up. Neer writes that sports talk hosts may find two or more events scheduled for the same night. “Obviously you can’t watch every minute of every game. And, oh by the way, you do have a life apart from the job. There are family and friends who deserve attention and other cultural aspects of life that should be acknowledged lest you become too narrowly focused. So, how can you juggle all these priorities and stay current with your demanding job?” Find out here.
Changes Coming to Sports WQXI, Atlanta. Management at Lincoln Financial Media’s sports talk WQXI, Atlanta – Sports Talk 790 The Zone – is tweaking the schedule as reported by the Atlanta Journal Constitution’s Rodney Ho. The morning drive show, “Mayhem in the AM,” is extended to 6:00 am to 11:00 am as is the PM drive show of Mike Bell and David Archer who move earlier to the 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm time slot. That leaves a midday show of 11:00 am to 2:00 pm to be filled and the station currently employs Tony Barnhart and Wes Durham as well as “Two Live Stews” Doug and Ryan Stewart. Ho notes that Barnhart and Durham are contractually allowed to take May and June off since they work long hours the rest of the year at non-radio station jobs. Ho also reports Barnhart’s and Durham’s ratings are better than the Stews but their availability in May and June presents a complication. GM Andrew Saltzman tells the paper they expect to have the schedule squared away in the near future.
Dennis Prager Publishes New Book. Salem Radio Network syndicated talk show host Dennis Prager begins promoting the publication of his latest book tonight (4/24) with an appearance on Fox News Channel’s Sean Hannity program. The book, Still the Best Hope: Why the World Needs American Values to Triumph (Broadside Books 2012), centers around Prager’s argument that humanity has a choice between American values and its two alternatives: Islamism and European-style democratic socialism. Prager suggests the American value system is the most viable method of creating a good society.
KCBS, San Francisco Newsman Bob Melrose Retires After 36 Years. Longtime KCBS, San Francisco reporter Bob Melrose retires from the CBS Radio station after 36 years at the venerable all-news outlet. Melrose’s career covering news in Northern California included come of the highest visibility cases and colleagues recall how Melrose had a knack for being there when news broke. A retrospective in the San Jose Mercury News notes Melrose covered the Jonestown massacre, the discovery of murdered 12-year-old Polly Klaas’ body and many other stories important to the region and the nation.
Voice Over Pro Jim Cutler Recognized by Fisher House. Voice over pro Jim Cutler (pictured here holding his plaque) was recently honored by the Fisher House Foundation for his pro bono work for the charity. Cutler provided the voice over work for a number of Fisher House projects, including this year’s Memorial Day radio special titled, “A Grateful Nation.” The Fisher House Foundation provides no-cost housing and assistance to the families of America’s servicemen and servicewomen while they recover at VA and military hospitals.
2012 Presidential Campaign, France Presidential Elections, Secret Service Scandal, Euro Zone Jitters, SCOTUS to Hear AZ Immigration Law Case and John Edwards Trial Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (4/23). The 2012 presidential campaign; the surprise showing of French far-right National Front candidate Marine Le Pen in France’s presidential elections; the growing Secret Service scandal; trouble in Europe as some euro zone countries battle to beat debt issues; the coming Supreme Court hearing of the Arizona illegal immigration law; and the beginning of the John Edwards campaign finance wrongdoing trial were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
A Brief History of Los Angeles Talk Radio. One of the many highlights of the recent Los Angeles Regional Talkers Forum (October 20) was the presentation of the first-ever Talkers Lifetime Achievement Award to LARadio.com publisher and noted radio historian Don Barrett followed by his brilliant presentation of “A Brief History of Los Angeles Talk Radio.” In the speech, Barrett describes growing up in the beach communities of Southern California and being raised on the great rock ‘n’ roll and top 40 stations of the 1950s. He traces the roots of LA talk radio back to Ben Hoberman’s early experiments with all-talk at KABC in the 1960s and follows the richly colorful route of the format all the way through the decades to present-day juggernaut that is KFI, including fascinating details about the personalities who brought it to life. To see this not-to-be-missed exclusive video presentation, click here.
Former KGO, San Francisco Hosts Gene Burns and Len Tillem to Join Clear Channel Bay Area Station; New Lineups for KNEW and KKSF Announced. The program schedules for Clear Channel’s Bay Area talk stations are official a month after the company announced it would swap calls, and change the image of progressive talk station KKGN. As previously reported, the 960 AM frequency becomes KNEW and 
910 AM will take the new call letters KKSF. What’s new is that former crosstown KGO talk hosts Gene Burns and Len Tillem will become part of the lineup at the new Newstalk 910 (KKSF). The program schedules for the revamped stations are as follows: KNEW – Premiere Networks‘ Glenn Beck, 6:00 am to 9:00 am; Dave Ramsey, 9:00 am to 12:00 noon; Premiere‘s Randi Rhodes, 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm; Compass Media Networks‘ Norman Goldman, 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm; Market Wrap, 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm; Dial Global‘s Stephanie Miller, 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm; Dial Global‘s Thom Hartmann, 10:00 pm to 1:00 am. KKSF – Armstrong & Getty, 6:00 am to 9:00 am; to be announced, 9:00 am to 12:00 noon; Fox News Radio‘s Tom Sullivan, 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm; Len Tillem, 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm; and Gene Burns, 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Regarding the changes, Clear Channel San Francisco director of operations Don Parker states, “Recent changes in the talk radio market gave us the opportunity to adjust our plans for 960 KNEW. We are excited to broaden 960 KNEW’s position to appeal to a wider variety of Bay Area listeners…We are moving Newstalk 910 into the forefront of the talk genre in the Bay Area. With the addition of Bay Area legend Gene Burns and ‘Radio Lawyer’ Len Tillem to the line-up, we are very excited about the future.”
Rumor: Cumulus Planning FM Talk Flip in Twin Cities. There’s no official word from the company but the talk is hot and heavy in the Minneapolis –St. Paul market that Cumulus Media will flip one of its music FMs to talk in 2012. Cumulus owns classic rock KQRS-FM, active rock KXXR-FM and the classic hits trimulcast of WGVX-FM, WGVY-FM and WGVZ-FM which surround the market. Both the rock stations have done pretty well in the latest Arbitron PPMs so a lot of the chatter has the lower-rated classic hits “Love 105FM” making the switch. Stay tuned.
Wisconsin Public Radio Talk Host Jean Feraca to Retire. The 28-year veteran of Wisconsin Public Radio announces she’ll retire in March from the organization she’s worked at since 1983. Jean Feraca tells the Wisconsin State Journal, “It’s just time.” Speaking to the paper, she hinted at job cuts that clearly have affected her work environment. “I lost everybody in my team earlier this year, and it’s been difficult. This is sensitive stuff and I have to think it through.”
Unresolved Payroll Tax Issue/Congress Recesses, Post-Kim Jong Il North Korea, 2012 Presidential Race and Uncertain Financial Markets Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (12/20). Congress’ failure to extend the payroll tax cut and its leaving for holiday break, concern over a post-Kim Jong Il North Korea, the GOP race for president in 2012 and the down year for stocks and the ongoing euro zone debt crisis were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing TALKERS magazine research.
