Industry News

WABC, New York Presents Hispanic Heritage Day

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Pictured above are the participants in the special roundtable podcast on 77WABC’s Hispanic Heritage Day, an all-day tribute to the Hispanic Community. From left to right are: Joseph Ayala, president of the NYPD Hispanic Society; Red Apple Media and 77WABC owner, John Catsimatidis; 77WABC on-air host and host of the roundtable, Dominic Carter; Steven Marquez, second VP FDNY Hispanic Society; Janet Paguero, Bronx deputy borough president; and Reverend Ruben Diaz, Sr.

Ratings Takeaways

September 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

imSeptember 2023 PPM Data – Information for the September 2023 ratings period has been released for New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey).

Nielsen Audio’s September 2023 sweep covered August 17 – September 13.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are August 2023 – September 2023 (6+).

Note: The NFL season began September 7 (flagships are bolded).

NEW YORK

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 1.4 – 1.2, -.2, #21 to #19

Red Apple Media‘s WABC-AM 3.1 — 3.4, +.3, #10 to #11

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 4.9 – 4.6, -.3, seventh to fifth

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) steady at 2.5, #13 to #10

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees, Giants) 2.9 – 3.1, +.2, #12 to #9

Good Karma Brands‘  WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Jets) flat at 1.1 #23 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 3.1 – 3.6, +.5, tenth to eighth

WNYC-FM cluster-mate WNYC-AM 1.3 – 1.4, +.1, #22 to #18

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, eleventh month in a row, 8.1 – 7.3, -.8

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: public radio news/talk WNYC-FM (+.5)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLTW (-.8)

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” flat at 4.8, third to fourth

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 2.9 – 3.7, +.8, #12 to #8

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.0 – 2.1, +.1, repeats at #20

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KRTH, seventh month in succession, 6.4 – 6.1, -.3

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: news KNX (+.8)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: Spanish contemporary KLLI (-.7)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” 3.0 – 3.4, +.4, #11 to #8

News: Audacy’s WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” 4.6 – 4.9, +.3, fourth to third

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WSCR “670 The Score” (Cubs) 3.0 – 3.2, +.2, stays at #11

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media’s WBEZ 2.9 – 3.0, +.1, remains at #13  

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT, twelfth straight month, 7.7 – 6.8, -.9 and Hubbard Broadcasting classic rock WDRV, first month, 6.2 – 6.8, +.6

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: hot AC WTMX (+.7)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLIT (-.9)

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” steady at 2.0, #18 to #16

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” unchanged at 7.1, anchored in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants, 49ers) 3.6 – 3.7, +.1, eighth to seventh

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED flat at 5.3, repeats in third-place  

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, sixth month in succession, 8.0 – 8.4, +.4

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: CHR KMVQ (+.7)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KSOL (-.7)

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 4.3 – 4.6, +.3, fourth to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” 4.4 – 4.7, +3, repeats in third-place

Audacy-owned KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Texas Rangers, Cowboys) 2.7 – 2.9, +.2, #17 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting’s KERA 2.8 – 2.7, -.1, #15 to #16

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KSPF, fourth month in a row, flat at 4.9, and Cumulus Media country KPLX, first month, 4.1 – 4.9, +.8

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: contemporary Christian KLTY (+1.2)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary KKDA-FM (-.7)

HOUSTON 

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” (Astros) flat at 3.7, repeats at #12

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston’s KUHF 2.3 – 2.2, -.1, continues at #18

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA second month in a row, 7.5 – 7.9, +.4

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: alternative KTBZ (+.8)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KLTN (-.6)

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 6.6 – 7.3, +.7, locked in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Falcons) steady at 2.8, #15 to #14

Dickey Broadcasting’s WCNN “The Fan” (Braves) 2.5 – 1.5, -1.0, #18 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools’ WABE 3.7 – 3.5, -.2, #10 to #12

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, ninth successive month, 9.2 – 7.9, -1.3

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: classic rock WNNX (+1.0)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WSRV (-1.3)*

*Represents the largest August 2023 – September 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: Audacy’s WPHT “Talk Radio 1210” 1.2 – 1.5, +.3, #22 to #19

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 4.6 – 5.8, +1.2, ninth to fifth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Phillies, Eagles) 5.5 – 5.8, +.3, fourth to fifth

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 3.8 – 3.6, -.2, #10 to #11

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic rock WMGK, fifth straight month, 9.5 – 10.1, +.6

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: news KYW (+1.2)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult hits WBEN-FM (-1.1)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 1.8 – 3.9, +2.1, #18 to #8

News: Audacy-owned WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 4.7 – 4.0, -.7, third to seventh

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 2.3 – 2.5, +.2, #17 to #14

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees, Giants) 3.5 – 3.8, +.3, eighth to tenth

Good Karma-owned WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Jets) steady at 1.7, #19 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic rock WBAB, seventh month in a row, 7.1 – 8.0, +.9

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: news/talk WABC (+2.1)**

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: news WINS and Spanish tropical WSKQ (-.7)

**Represents the largest August 2023 – September 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, .5 – .4, -.1, #18 to #19

Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC flat at .2, repeats at #20

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, sixth straight month, unchanged at 9.9

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: urban-rhythmic oldies KDAY (+1.0)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KSCA (-.4)

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.5 – 6.6, +.1, #1 

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants, 49ers) 5.5 – 4.8, -.7, repeats in fourth-place

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” 1.7 – 2.2, +.5, #19 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: news KCBS-AM & KFRC, third month in a row, 6.5 – 6.6, +.1

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: 1980s-based KOSF (+.9)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: classic rock KUFX (-1.0) 

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 5.5 – 5.2, -.3, third to fourth   

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 2.0 – 2.1, +.1, #12 to #13

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 1.0 – 1.2, +.2, #19 to #17

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees, Giants) 3.3 – 4.1, +.8, ninth to eighth

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Jets) 1.0 – .9, -.1, remains at #19

WFAN’s internet stream 1.2 – .8, -.4, #18 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic rock WAXQ, third straight month, 6.7 – 6.3, -.4

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: sports talk WFAN (+.8)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLTW (-.8)

Up next: September 2023 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.

Industry News

WABC, New York to Honor Cousin Brucie

77WABC and owners John and Margo Catsimatidis are honoring music radio pioneer and legendary air personality Cousin Brucie (Bruce Morrow) in recognition of his more than 60 years entertaining listeners.im The gala event being held in New York tomorrow (9/7) will also celebrate 102 years of WABC broadcasting “the best in news and entertainment to millions of listeners across the greater New York City area and now – with streaming, podcasting, and the 77WABC mobile app – to listeners around the world!” John Catsimatidis comments, “I grew up listening to 77WABC and Cousin Brucie. My dream was to return 77WABC to its glory with compelling and entertaining programming and big-name personalities. Plus, I wanted to bring back music on weekends when we all need a break from news, politics, and business. I called Cousin Brucie and got him back where he belongs – on 77WABC.”

Ratings Takeaways

August 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

imAugust 2023 PPM Data – Information for the August 2023 ratings period has been released for New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey).

Nielsen Audio’s August 2023 sweep covered July 20 – August 16.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are July 2023 – August 2023 (6+). 

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 3.2 – 3.1, -.1, #11 to #10

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” flat at 4.9, sixth to seventh

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 2.6 – 2.5, -.1, locked at #13

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 2.8 – 2.9, +.1, anchored at #12

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 3.7 – 3.1, -.6, remains in tenth-place

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, tenth month in a row, 7.7 – 8.1, +.4

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: rhythmic CHR WKTU (+.8)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM (-.9) 

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” 4.2 – 4.8, +.6, fifth to third

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 2.8 – 2.9, +.1, #11 to #12

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 1.9 – 2.0, +.1, #21 to #20

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KRTH, sixth month in succession, 6.8 – 6.4, -.4

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: news/talk KFI and regional Mexican KBUE (+.6)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: smooth AC KTWV (-.9)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” 3.2 – 3.0, -.2, #10 to #11

News: Audacy’s WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” 5.0 – 4.6, -.4, repeats in fourth-place

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WSCR “670 The Score” (Cubs) 2.5 – 3.0, +.5, #14 to #11

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media’s WBEZ 2.7 – 2.9, +.2, #12 to #13  

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT, eleventh straight month, 7.0 – 7.7, +.7

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WLIT (+.7)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: triple A WXRT (-.7)

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.9 – 2.0, +.1, #17 to #18

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.7 – 7.1, +.4, locked in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 2.9 – 3.6, +.7, tenth to eighth

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED 4.6 – 5.3, +.7, fourth to third  

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, fifth month in succession, 8.1 – 8.0, -.1

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: public radio news/talk KQED; sports talk KNBR; and CHR KMVQ (+.7)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KISQ (-.9)

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 3.9 – 4.3, +.4, ninth to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” 4.7 – 4.4, -.3, second to third

Audacy-owned KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Texas Rangers) 2.5 – 2.7, +.2, #16 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting’s KERA 2.7 – 2.8, +.1, repeats at #15

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KSPF, third month in a row, 5.3 – 4.9, -.4 and country KSCS, first month, 4.5 – 4.9, +.4

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: hot AC KDMX and news – talk hybrid KRLD-AM (+.5)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: contemporary Christian KLTY (-1.2)

HOUSTON 

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” (Astros) 4.0 – 3.7, -.3, #9 to #12

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston’s KUHF 1.8 – 2.3, +.5, #21 to #18

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA first month, 6.9 – 7.5, +.6

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: urban AC KMJQ (+.9)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: country KKBQ and regional Mexican KQQK (-.6)

Note: KODA was #1 28 straight months before slipping to second in July 2023 and returns to the top spot.

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 6.5 – 6.6, +.1, ensconced in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WZGC “92.9 The Game” 2.3 – 2.8, +.5, #18 to #15

Dickey Broadcasting’s WCNN “The Fan” (Braves) 3.3 – 2.5, -.8, #14 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools’ WABE 3.5 – 3.7, +.2, ninth to tenth

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, eighth successive month, 9.6 – 9.2, -.4

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: CHR WWPW (+.7)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary WWSZ (-.9)

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 5.6 – 4.6, -1.0, fourth to ninth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Phillies) 4.6 – 5.5, +.9, ninth to fourth

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 4.2 – 3.8, -.4, repeats in tenth-place

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic rock WMGK, fourth straight month, 9.8 – 9.5, -.3

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: sports talk WIP (+.9)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: news KYW (-1.0)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 1.9 – 1.8, -.1, repeats at #18

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 1.5 – 1.4, -.1, #21 to #20

News: Audacy-owned WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 3.7 – 4.7, +1.0, seventh to third

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 3.2 – 2.3, -.9, #9 to #17

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 3.4 – 3.5, +.1, steady in eighth-place

Good Karma Brands-owned WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” 1.4 – 1.7, +.3, #22 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic rock WBAB, sixth month in a row, 8.5 – 7.1, -1.4

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: news WINS-FM (+1.0)*

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: classic rock WBAB (-1.4)

*Represents a tie for the largest July 2023 – August 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, .4 – .5, +.1, #19 to #18

Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC .0 – .2, +.2, #20

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, fifth straight month, 8.9 – 9.9, +1.0

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies KOLA (+1.0)*

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: Spanish adult hits KLYY (-1.3)

*Represents a tie for the largest July 2023 – August 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.3 – 6.5, +.2, #1 

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 5.2 – 5.5, +.3, fifth to fourth

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” 1.2 – 1.7, +.5, #22 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: news KCBS-AM & KFRC, second month in a row, 6.3 – 6.5, +.2 and Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, first month, 5.9 – 6.5, +.6

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: CHR KMVQ (+.8)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: classic rock KUFX (-1.4)

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 6.5 – 5.5, -1.0, continues in third-place 

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 2.3 – 2.0, -.3, #13 to #12

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) .9 – 1.0, +.1, #20 to #19

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 4.2 – 3.3, -.9, eighth to ninth

WFAN’s internet stream .7 – 1.2, +.5, #23 to #18

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” .9 – 1.0, +.1, #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic rock WAXQ, second straight month, 7.8 – 6.7, -1.1

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: sports talk WFAN’s internet stream and contemporary Christian WAWZ (+.5)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WMGQ (-2.5)**

**Represents the largest July 2023 – August 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

Up next: August 2023 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.

Industry News

Michael Harrison Says AI is One of the Most Important Talk Topics of Our Times

TALKERS founder Michael Harrison has kicked off a nationwide guesting tour of talk shows promoting discussion of the upside and downside of AI in conjunction with the release of the new song, “I Got a Line in New York City,” by the long-established classic rock group, Gunhill Road. Harrison performs lead vocals on the track performed with band members Steve GoldrichPaul Reisch and Brian Koonin. The music video of the song (produced by Harrison’s son and TALKERS associate publisher Matthew B. Harrison) has been described as a computer’s “fever dream about the Big Apple.” Although the music is totally organic, all of the visual graphics on the video have been assisted in their creation by generative artificial intelligence. Harrison says, “There’s huge interest in the topic of AI including the existential issues of its potential impact on our species. In the art community, debate is raging over whether AI enhances originality and creativity or if it is ushering in the death of individual artists and the role they play in the humanities.” See that video here.

Harrison launched the tour late last week appearing on the Rich Valdes show on Westwood One and has subsequently appeared on network programs hosted by Doug Stephan, Dr. Daliah Wachs, and WABC’s Frank Morano, as well as Harry Hurley on WPG, Atlantic City,  Todd Feinburg on WTIC-AM, Hartford and Michael Zwerling on KSCO, Santa Cruz.  WOR, New York has posted the video and an  accompanying story here.

To book Michael Harrison please call Barbara Kurland at 413-565-5413 or email info@talkers.com

Industry News

WABC’s Curtis Sliwa Arrested Again Over Migrant Camps Protest

Guardian Angels founder and WABC, New York host Curtis Sliwa was arrested yesterday (8/20) for blockingim the street along with other protestors in front of the Midland Beach Migrant Shelter on Staten Island. According to a report by Greg Wehner at FOX News, Sliwa was protesting the at the former Midland Beach Senior Citizen Home. It was the second time in a week that Sliwa was arrested. On Wednesday of last week (8/16) he and others protested in front of the Creedmoor Hospital Grounds where a tent shelter for migrants has been built. Read the FOX News piece here.

Industry News

McIntyre Appears on Frank Morano’s WABC Show

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Former longtime late-night radio personality Doug McIntyre – along with his wife, actress and poet Penny Peyser – appeared live on Frank Morano’s “The Other Side of Midnight” show on WABC, New York on Tuesday (8/15). McIntyre, who launched the original version of the nationally syndicated overnight “Red Eye Radio” program, is in New York promoting his new novel Frank’s Shadow (Greenleaf Book Group Press, 2023). Today (8/16), Morano will moderate a Q&A with McIntyre at his appearance at Barnes & Noble on Long Island (Carle Place). Pictured above are (from l-r): Peyser, Morano, McIntyre.

Industry News

WABC’s Frank Morano Hangs with The Sopranos Cast Members

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Pictured above is WABC, New York overnight host Frank Morano with some of the cast of “The Sopranos,” who stopped by his “The Other Side of Midnight” program to talk about why people still care about “The Sopranos” so many years later, cigars, and the fascinating lives of the actors. In the photo are (l-r): Dan Grimaldi, who played Philly and Patsy Parisi; Morano; Robert Funaro, who played Eugene Pontecorvo; and Jason Cerbone, who played Jackie Aprile, Jr.

Industry News

Round One of July PPMs Released

imThe first of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s July 2023 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union. Nielsen’s July 2023 sweep covered June 22 – July 19. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In New York City, Red Apple Media news/talk WABC-AM/WLIR-FM sheds two-tenths to finish with a 3.2 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) and falls back to the #11 rank, while Audacy’s crosstown all-news WINS-AM/FM rises six-tenths to a 4.9 share and climbs to the #6 rank. In Chicago, Nexstar Media Group news/talk WGN adds two-tenths for a 3.2 share finish that lifts it to the #10 rank, while Audacy’s crosstown all-news WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM tacks on four-tenths to finish the survey with a 5.0 share but falls back to the #4 rank. And in San Francisco, Audacy all-news KCBS-AM/KFRC-FM rises eight-tenths to wrap the survey with a 6.7 share that leaves it ranked #2, while Cumulus Media’s crosstown news/talk KSFO dips one-tenth for a 1.9 share finish good for the #17 rank. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways for this group of markets here.

Ratings Takeaways

July 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

imJuly 2023 PPM Data – Information for the July 2023 ratings period has been released for New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union.

Nielsen Audio’s July 2023 sweep covered June 22 – July 19.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are June 2023 – July 2023 (6+). 

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 3.4 – 3.2, -.2, #10 to #11

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 4.3 – 4.9, +.6, eighth to sixth

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 2.7 – 2.6, -.1, anchored at #13

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 3.1 – 2.8, -.3, locked at #12

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 3.4 – 3.7, +.3, repeats in tenth-place

WNYC-FM cluster-mate WNYC-AM .8 – 1.5, +.7, #26 to #20

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, ninth month in a row, 7.6 – 7.7, +.1

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: public radio news/talk WNYC-AM (+.7)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: Spanish contemporary WXNY (-.7) 

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” 4.3 – 4.2, -.1, remains in fifth-place

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” steady at 2.8, #12 to #11

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KRTH, fifth month in succession, 5.9 – 6.8, +.9

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies KRTH (+.9)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KBUE (-.8)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” 3.0 – 3.2, +.2, #11 to #10

News: Audacy’s WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” 4.6 – 5.0, +.4, third to fourth

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WSCR “670 The Score” (Cubs) 2.6 – 2.5, -.1, repeats at #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media’s WBEZ 2.5 – 2.7, +.2, #15 to #12  

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT, tenth straight month, 7.2 – 7.0, -.2

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: triple A WXRT (+1.1)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: classic rock WDRV (-.7)

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 2.0 – 1.9, -.1, #18 to #17

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 5.9 – 6.7, +.8, anchored in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 2.7 – 2.9, +.2, #11 to #10

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED 5.3 – 4.6, -.7, repeats in fourth-place  

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, fourth month in succession, 7.8 – 8.1, +.3

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: 1980s hits KOSF (+.9)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: CHR KMVQ (-1.0)

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 3.7 – 3.9, +.2, repeats in ninth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” 5.1 – 4.7, -.4, continues in the runner-up slot  

Audacy-owned KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Texas Rangers) 2.4 – 2.5, +.1, steady at #16

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting’s KERA 2.3 – 2.7, +.4, #17 to #15

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KSPF, second month in a row, 5.4 – 5.3, -.1

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: adult hits KJKK (+.8)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: country KPLX (-.6)

Note: Audacy classic hits-oldies KLUV “Nobody Plays More 80s” remains in the format and stays at #1; however, it changes calls to KSPF as “98.7 The Spot.”

HOUSTON

 News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” (Astros) 3.6 – 4.0, +.4, #11 to #9

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic rock KGLK first month, 6.8 – 7.0, +.2

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: contemporary Christian KSBJ; urban contemporary KQBT; Spanish contemporary Christian KHVU; and gospel KROI (+.5)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KODA (-2.0)*

*Represents the largest June 2023 – July 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

Note: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA had been #1 the last 28 months.

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” flat at 6.5, locked in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Dickey Broadcasting’s WCNN “The Fan” (Braves) 2.8 – 3.3, +.5, repeats at #14

Audacy-owned WZGC “92.9 The Game” 2.2 – 2.3, +.1, #17 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools’ WABE 2.7 – 3.5, +.8, #15 to #9

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, seventh successive month, 10.4 – 9.6, -.8

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: public radio news/talk WABE (+.8)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WSRV (-.8)

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 5.3 – 5.6, +.3, seventh to fourth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Phillies) 3.8 – 4.6, +.8, tenth to ninth

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY flat at 4.2, ninth to tenth

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic rock WMGK, third straight month, 10.6 – 9.8, -.8

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: sports talk WIP (+.8)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: country WXTU (-1.1)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 2.5 – 1.9, -.6, #16 to #18

News: Audacy-owned WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” flat at 3.7, ninth to seventh

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 3.3 – 3.2, -.1, tenth to ninth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 4.4 – 3.4, -1.0, fifth to eighth

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic rock WBAB, fifth month in a row, 6.7 – 8.5, +1.8

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: classic rock WBAB (+1.8)**

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: sports talk WFAN (-1.0)

**Represents the largest June 2023 – July 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, .3 – .4, +.1, locked at #19

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, fourth straight month, 7.2 – 8.9, +1.7

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies KOLA (+1.7)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: Spanish contemporary KLLI (-.6)

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.4 – 1.7, +.3, #18 to #20

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” steady at 6.3, third to first 

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 4.5 – 5.2, +.7, seventh to fifth

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: news KCBS-AM & KFRC, first month, unchanged at 6.3

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: urban AC KBLX (+1.4)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: CHR KMVQ (-1.6)

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 5.5 – 6.5, +1.0, repeats in third-place 

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” flat at 1.0, stays at #19

WKXW’s internet stream .3 – .9, +.6, #20

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 1.5 – 2.3, +.8, #16 to #13

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 1.0 – .9, -.1, #19 to #20

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 4.6 – 4.2, -.4, sixth to eighth

Good Karma Brands‘ WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” 1.0 – .9, -.1, #19 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic rock WAXQ, first month, 8.4 – 7.8, -.6

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WLTW (+1.1)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: Spanish tropical WSKQ (-1.1)

Up next: July 2023 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.

Industry News

WABC’s Sid Rosenberg Has Role in Amazon Prime Series

im

WABC, New York morning drive personality Sid Rosenberg is well known in the Big Apple for his radio work, but he’s been pursuing a side-hustle as an actor and has a role in the Amazon Prime 1980s-era mob series, “Gravesend.” He’s pictured above (left) in a still from a scene with actor William DeMeo (right) who plays the lead character Benny Zerletta.

Industry News

TALKERS 2023: Video of “Navigating a Radio Talk Show Hosting Career” Panel Discussion Posted

During the coming days, videos of all of TALKERS 2023’s numerous sessions conducted June 2 at Hofstra University will be posted, continuing today (6/21) with the panel discussion, “Navigating a Radio Talk Showim Hosting Career.” The session, sponsored by C. Crane, was introduced by managing partner, Goldman McCormick PR and syndicated host, Ryan McCormick (pictured at right) and moderated by WPHT, Philadelphia host, Dom Giordano (pictured above). Panelists (pictured below from left to right) include Heather Cohen, SVP, the Weiss AgencyMartha Zoller, host, WDUN-AM/FM, Gainesville, GA; Frank Morano, host WABC, New York; Rich Valdes, host, Westwood One; and Jeff Katz, host, WRVA, Richmond, VA. See video of the session here.

im

Industry News

WABC, New York Adds Roger Stone Show to Sundays

Political strategist Roger Stone joins the staff of WABC, New York for a one-hour, weekly show that airs Sundays at 3:00 pm. Stone was convicted of obstructing a congressional investigation into Trump’s 2016 campaign and possible ties to Russia, but his sentence was commuted by Trump. Stone’s program debuted onim June 11 with an interview with the former president. Red Apple Media CEO John Catsimatidis says, “Roger’s impressive career has established him as a prominent figure in American politics. His wealth of experience offers an insider’s view into the political landscape, providing listeners with rare behind-the-scenes insights, razor-sharp analysis, unparalleled insights, and dedication to the truth will captivate audiences worldwide,”

Industry News

Round One of May PPMs Released

imThe first of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s May PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey). Nielsen’s May 2023 sweep covered April 27 – May 24. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In New York City, Red Apple Media’s news/talk WABC-AM & WLIR-FM is steady at a 3.7 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) but slides from the #10 rank to #11, while iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk WOR dips two-tenths to a 1.7 share and remains ranked #18. iHeartMedia’s KFI, Los Angeles is flat with a 4.3 share but falls back to the #5 rank in the market. In Chicago, Nexstar Media Group’s news/talk WGN adds one-tenth to finish with a 3.3 share and rises one spot to the #9 rank, while Audacy’s all-news WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM loses two-tenths to finish with a 4.2 share but rises to the #3 rank in the market. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways here.

Industry News

WABC, New York Recognized by Catholic Charities

im

Pictured above are staffers from Red Apple Media’s WABC, New York at the recent Catholic Charities of NY 14thAnnual Gala at the American Museum of Natural History. At the event Cardinal Dolan gave a shout-out to WABC for the work it’s doing.From left to right, top row are: New York news anchor and WABC personality Ernie Anastos, WABC host Rita Cosby, WABC host Frank Morano, WABC host Dominic Carter, and Marilyn Carter. Left to right, bottom row: Red Apple Media CEO John Catsimatidis, Margo Catsimatidis, Red Apple general counsel Emily Pankow, and WABC president Chad Lopez.

Industry News

Red Apple Media CEO John Catsimatidis Wants to Buy CNN

The owner of New York City’s legendary news/talk outlet WABC says he’s interested in buying cable news/talk channel CNN, telling the New York Post that “CNN deserves to be #1 in the world right now.” Red Apple Media CEO John Catsimatidis mused about acquiring the embattledim cable channel while speaking on WABC’s “Sid & Friends in the Morning” program. When asked by the Post about details of a bid for CNN, including how much he’d pay, he said, “It’s up to the investment bankers to come up with the numbers… We could always bring partners in, but I want to run the place. We are capable of putting down a substantial amount of money.” Catsimatidis added, “I’d go run the place tomorrow morning, and all I’d want is $1 per year and a piece of the upside,” saying he could “double the profits” in a brief period of time. Read the Post story here.

Industry Views

Passion Versus AI

By Walter Sabo
Consultant, Sabo Media
A.K.A. Walter Sterling
Radio Host, Sterling on Sunday

imLast week I had the privilege of moderating a panel at the TALKERS conference. Confession: I listen to speech patterns and tones more than words.

The prestigious panel featured Dan Mandis, program director and host, WTN-FM, Nashville; Ross Kaminsky, host KOA, Denver; Phil Boyce, SVP, spoken word format, Salem Media Group/ops VP, New York region/WMCA/AM 970; Josh Leng, CEO, Talk Media Network; and Matt Meany, program director, WABC, New York/Red Apple Media.

Yes, their collective knowledge and experience is unbeatable. They answered questions of great interest: How does iHeart measure social media accomplishments? Should one be fired for social media or podcast content or just for their air work? Establishing a syndication base, how does that happen? Where are the women – kudos to Salem’s Phil Boyce for celebrating their women hosts. What do programmers really look for in hosts? All valuable answers.  See the video of this session here.

Their words aren’t the “win.” The win is the fact that each of these pros has passion, passion and more passion. Their knowledge results in caring, heartfelt, supportive shares. They care about the future; they care about their craft. Programmers have to be optimistic about radio’s positive impact in order for them to do their jobs. Their descriptive tones make radio appealing.

The panel represents radio’s caretakers, gardeners, guides. The executives on the stage reveal qualities and qualifications that become overwhelmingly apparent in their demeanor and speech patterns. That’s what I hear.

Radio does not have to compete or fret over AI.  AI coders have to fret over their inevitable failure to capture or even coldly mimic the depth of emotion and confidence expressed by Matt, Josh, Phil, Ross and Dan. Good luck with that algorithm …losers.

Walter Sabo was the youngest Executive Vice President in the history of NBC. The youngest VP in the history of ABC. He was a consultant to RKO General longer than Bill Drake. Walter was the in-house consultant to Sirius for eight years. He has never written a resume. Contact him at walter@sabomedia.com. or mobile 646-678-1110. Hear Walter Sterling at www.waltersterlingshow.com.

Industry News

TALKERS 2023: Video of “Programming News/Talk Radio in the Digital Era – Part 2” Posted

During the coming days, videos of all of TALKERS 2023’s numerous sessions conducted June 2 at Hofstra University will be posted, continuing today with the panel discussion “Programmingim News/Talk Radio in the Digital Era – Part 2.” The session, sponsored by “Our American Stories,” is introduced by Alex Fife, VP operations, Southeast, iHeartMedia – Total Traffic & Weather Network (pictured at right) and moderated by Walter Sabo, CEO, Sabo Media and host (Walter Sterling) of Sterling on Sunday (pictured above). Panelists (pictured below from left to right) include Dan Mandis, program director and host, WTN-FM, Nashville; Ross Kaminsky, host KOA, Denver; Phil Boyce, SVP, spoken word format, Salem Media Group/ops VP, New York region/WMCA/AM 970; Josh Leng, CEO, Talk Media Network; and Matt Meany, program director, WABC, New York/Red Apple Media.  See the video of this session here

im

Industry News

Round One of April 2023 PPMs Released

imThe first of four rounds of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s April 2023 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island); Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey). Nielsen’s April 2023 sweep covered March 30 – April 26. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In New York, Red Apple Media’s news/talk WABC is steady with a 3.7 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) but falls one spot to the #10 rank, while iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk WOR stays put with a 1.9 share and remains ranked #18. iHeartMedia’s news/talk KFI, Los Angeles adds two-tenths for a 4.3 share finish and rises to the #4 rank. In San Francisco, Audacy’s all-news KCBS-AM/KFRC-FM falls seven-tenths to a 7.3 share but remains ranked #1 in the market, while Cumulus Media’s crosstown news/talk KSFO rises half a share to a 1.8 share that lifts it to the #19 rank. Cox Media Group’s news/talk WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta tacks on four-tenths for a 7.0 share finish and remains ranked #3 in the market. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets here.

Ratings Takeaways

April 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

imApril 2023 PPM Data – Information for the April 2023 ratings period has been released for New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island); Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey).

Nielsen Audio’s April 2023 sweep covered March 30 – April 26.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are March 2023 – April 2023   (6+).

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” flat at 3.7, ninth to tenth

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” steady at 1.9, repeats at #18

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 5.0 – 4.5, -.5, sixth to seventh

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 2.4 – 2.9, +.5, #15 to #13

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets, Yankees) 2.9 – 3.2, +.3, anchored at #12

Good Karma Brands’ WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Knicks, Rangers, Islanders) unchanged at 1.3, #22 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 3.5 – 3.8, +.3, tenth to ninth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, sixth month in a row, steady at 7.6

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: urban AC WBLS (+.6)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: Spanish tropical WSKQ (-1.0)

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” 4.1 – 4.3, +.2, fifth to fourth

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 3.3 – 2.9, -.4, #10 to #11

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.2 – 2.4, +.2, #17 to #16

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KRTH, second month in succession, 5.8 – 5.7, -.1

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: adult hits KCBS-FM (+.5)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: CHR KIIS (-.6)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” (Blackhawks) 3.4 – 3.2, -.2, ninth to tenth

News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” 4.8 – 4.4, -.4, anchored in fourth-place

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WSCR “670 The Score” (Bulls, Cubs) 2.5 – 3.1, +.6, #14 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ 3.4 – 3.1, -.3, #9 to #12  

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT, seventh straight month, 6.7 – 6.8, +.1

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: classic rock WDRV (+.9)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: news/talk WBBM-AM & WCFS and regional Mexican WLEY (-.4)

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.3 – 1.8, +.5, #22 to #19

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 8.0 – 7.3, -.7, #1

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 2.1 – 3.3, +1.2, #15 to #9

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” (Golden State Warriors) 2.2 – 2.7, +.5, #14 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED 5.3 – 5.2, -.1, remains in fourth-place

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, first month, 7.2 – 7.3, +.1 and news KCBS-AM & KFRC, second month in a row, 8.0 – 7.3, -.7

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: sports talk KNBR (+1.2)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: news KCBS-AM & KFRC and classical KDFC (-.7)

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 3.4 – 3.2, -.2, #12 to #13

News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” 2.3 – 2.1, -.2, #18 to #20

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” (Stars) steady at 5.6, #1

Audacy’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Texas Rangers) 2.3 – 3.0, +.7, #18 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting-owned KERA 2.7 – 2.2, -.5, #16 to #19

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media sports talk KTCK, fourth straight month, flat at 5.6

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: sports talk KRLD-FM and alternative KVIL (+.7)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KMVK and public radio news/talk KERA (-.5)

HOUSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” (Astros) unchanged at 3.7, #12 to #10

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston’s KUHF 2.6 – 2.8, +.2, #17 to #15

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, 26th consecutive month, 9.0 – 8.9, -.1

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: hot AC KHMX (+1.0)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: Spanish adult hits KOVE (-1.4)

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 6.6 – 7.0, +.4, anchored in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “The Fan” (Braves) 1.3 – 2.6, +1.3, #21 to #16

Audacy’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Hawks) 2.4 – 2.5, +.1, #17 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE 3.6 – 3.4, -.2, #9 to #11

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, fourth successive month, 8.3 – 8.9, +.6

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: sports talk WCNN (+1.3)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary WHTA (-1.7)*

*Represents the largest March 2023 – April 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 6.2 – 5.5, -.7, third to seventh

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Phillies) 4.7 – 5.9, +1.2, eighth to sixth

Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” (76ers, Flyers) flat at 1.4, stays at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 5.4 – 4.9, -.5, seventh to ninth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC WDAS-FM, third month in a row, 7.2 – 7.7, +.5

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: sports talk WIP (+1.2)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: news KYW & WPHI (-.7)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 2.1 – 2.2, +.1, #16 to #15

Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 1.3 – 1.8, +.5, #22 to #19

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 3.5 – 3.8, +.3, ninth to seventh

WCBS-AM cluster-mate WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 3.7 – 3.3, -.4, eighth to tenth

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets, Yankees) 4.4 – 4.6, +.2, sixth to fifth

WFAN’s internet stream .4 – .6, +.2, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic rock WBAB, second month in a row, 6.0 – 7.0, +1.0

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: classic rock WBAB (+1.0)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM (-.5)

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, flat at .3, repeats at #19

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, first month, 6.1 – 5.7, -.4

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: rhythmic CHR KGGI (+1.1)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KSCA (-1.2)

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.5 – 1.7, +.2, #18 to #20

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.3 – 6.2, -.1, #1

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 2.6 – 4.4, +1.8, #14 to #6

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” (Golden State Warriors) 1.4 – 1.9, +.5, #21 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: news KCBS-AM & KFRC, second month, 6.3 – 6.2, -.1

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: sports talk KNBR (+1.8)**

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: 1980s hits KOSF (-1.3)

**Represents the largest March 2023 – April 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 6.5 – 7.1, +.6, second to first 

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 1.0 – 1.3, +.3, repeats at #20

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 2.3 – 2.0, -.3, #9 to #13

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 1.6 – 1.7, +.1, #14 to #16

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets, Yankees) 3.8, #9 (non-subscriber in March 2023)

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Knicks, Rangers, Islanders) 1.1 – 1.6, +.5, #17 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: news/talk WKXW, first month, 6.5 – 7.1, +.6

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: hot AC WNEW-FM (+.8)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WMGQ (-1.1)

Up next: April 2023 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.