Thursday, May 23, 2013

Tribune Names Jimmy de Castro President and GM of WGN, Chicago.  The Tribune Company announces it has named former AM/FM president and CEO Jimmy de Castro president and general manager of its sole radio station – WGN, Chicago – beginning June 3.  The 60-year-old de Castro has most recently been operating The Content Factory which developed the Dan Patrick sports talk radio show.  In the Chicago Tribune, Tribune president of local broadcasting Larry Wert states, “There’s been a lot of change in it over recent years, and a lot of controversy around it, given the personalities that have come and gone.  We’re just really looking forward to some smart, go-forward stability.  I don’t think we could have picked anyone better than Jim de Castro.”  For his part de Castro states, “I wouldn’t take this job unless I thought that I could improve the ratings and improve the revenues and improve the EBITDA.  Picking the right lane, marketing it correctly, driving some enthusiasm and some energy in the listening community and in the buying community and in the hallways of 720, are going to have an impact.”  Jimmy de Castro founded Evergreen Media in 1988 and merged it with Chancellor Broadcasting in 1997.  The company then became AM/FM which was acquired by Clear Channel in a subsequent merger.  WGN sales manager Jeff Hill has been serving as general manager since former president and general manager Tom Langmyer exited the station in the fall of 2012.

Cox Media Group Debuts Urban Gold-Formatted “Hot 106.5” in Jacksonville Market.  CMG Jacksonville flips the 106.5 FM frequency (most recently a simulcast of news/talk WOKV after the demise of longtime rock WFYV in March) to urban gold as WHJX “Hot 106.5 Duval’s Adult R&B.”  The company announces Clarence Natto will program the new outlet.  CMG says core artists for the new station will include: Marvin Gaye, Luther Vandross, Earth, Wind & Fire, The Isley Brothers, The O’Jays, and Stevie Wonder.  CMG Jacksonville VP and market manager Bill Hendrich states, “This is a great opportunity to serve the Jacksonville community in an area that has been underserved with radio options for a number of years.  Our in-depth market research indicates a great need for classic R&B, and we expect this new format to be an unbelievable success with listeners, as well as a unique platform for our valued advertisers.”  Natto comes to Jacksonville from Cox Media Group’s Atlanta cluster where he was director of promotions for “Kiss 104.1 FM” WALR.  Hendrich adds, “Great talent resides in the stations owned by Cox Media Group and we have been able to tap into that talent bank once again with Clarence.  I had the pleasure of working with Clarence in Orlando when he was at ‘Star 94.5’ and have watched him grow his career over the past few years in Atlanta.  I really look forward to having Clarence on our team here in Jacksonville.”

Mat Mitchell Named PD at ‘104.7 Kiss FM’ and ‘Eva 95.5’ in Phoenix.  Clear Channel Media and Entertainment announced Mat Mitchell has been named program director for CHR KZZP “Kiss FM” and rhythmic oldies KYOT “Eva 95.5” in Phoenix.  Mitchell comes to Clear Channel from Cumulus Media’s CHR KRBE, Houston.  CC Phoenix vice president of programming Steve Geoffries states, “KZZP is a heritage brand with a top-rated morning show in Johnjay and Rich. Hiring Mat gives us someone who understands how these two key pieces work together.  The sky’s the limit from here.  He has a passion for great radio and adds another key piece to our Phoenix team.”  In addition to programming the stations, Mitchell will host middays on “Kiss FM.”  He says, “I want to thank Leslie Whittle and the amazing family at KRBE for an incredible six years!  My time in Houston will always remain special to me.  I am so excited to lead the powerful brands in ‘104.7 Kiss FM’ and ‘Eva 95.5.’  My thanks to the Clear Channel programming team and I can’t wait to get started in Phoenix!”

Slacker Names John Hayase Chief Product Officer.  Digital audio service Slacker announces John Hayase has been named chief product officer for the company.  The company says, “With nearly two decades of experience building interactive media and e-commerce platforms, Hayase will oversee the development of Slacker’s digital music service across the web, smartphones, tablets, cars and consumer electronics devices.”  Slacker CEO Jim Cady states, “Slacker is growing fast with millions of people listening every month.  John is here to guarantee these listeners have an amazing experience across every platform, whether they’re listening for free or are paying subscribers.  John’s career at the intersection of entertainment and e-commerce also supports Slacker’s commitment to provide artists and advertisers a highly engaging and efficient way to reach their fans and customers.”  Hayase comes to Slacker from his most recent post at ElasticPath, where he was vice president of client solutions.

More RadioInfo Career Moves.  Binnie Media Group promotes program director AJ Dukette to operations manager for the company’s New Hampshire cluster that includes CHR WJYY, country WNHW “93.3 The Wolf,” AC WLNH, classic hits WNNH “99.1 Frank FM,” in the Concord market and news/talk WEMJ, Laconia and Lebanon, New Hampshire country simulcast WXLF and WZLF “The Wolf.”…..Former KNDD, Seattle “107.7 The End” personality Harms is doing weekend and fill-in work with Clear Channel’s alternative KYSR, Los Angeles…..Mark Allen is the new program director at Three Eagles of Lincoln’s country KIAI, Mason City , Iowa “93.9 The Country Moose.”  Allen most recently served as PD and morning host at Gulf South Communications’ country WTVY, Dothan, Alabama.

Slash Visits Fox Sports Radio’s Jay Mohr.  Musician Slash is pictured here (left) chatting with Fox Sports Radio’s Jay Mohr (right) in the FSR studios in Los Angeles during a visit to Mohr’s radio show on May 21.  The former Guns N’ Roses lead guitarist talked about his time with GNR, upcoming projects and how Cher – of all people – helped him quit smoking.  Slash is a big horror movie fan and has produced three such films.  He’s behind the new horror flick “Nothing Left to Fear.”

Steven J.J. Weisman Receives High Academic Honor.  RadioInfo legal editor and Harrison Strategies senior partner, Steve Weisman received the 2013 Gregory H. Adamian Award for Excellence in Teaching from the Department of Law, Taxation and Financial Planning at Boston-based Bentley University where, in addition to his stellar radio industry career as a trade editor, legal advisor and talent manager, he is an esteemed professor.  Weisman (c) is pictured receiving the honor at the university’s recent commencement ceremony from Mike Page, provost of the University (l) and Greg Adamian, trustee and former president of Bentley (r). Professor Weisman’s many nominations from both graduate and undergraduate students over the years contain descriptions like “intelligent,” “motivating” and “inspiring.”  Several students noted that Professor Weisman not only cares about the course content but also about teaching his students to be good citizens out in the world.  We at RadioInfo agree Steve Weisman is a mighty good fellow and are proud that he will be one of the more than 50 speakers appearing at the forthcoming Talkers New York 2013 on Thursday, June 6 discussing key industry issues.  For more information about the conference click here.

New Rules for Email.  Radio consultant and RadioInfo columnist Holland Cooke writes that “With enabling technology evolving so rapidly, technique is critical.  With new-tech comes a new etiquette; or, too often, a lack thereof.  You prove it every time you check your email.  I’ll bet you delete without reading more messages than you read.”  Holland advises that to be as effective as possible in business when using email, be sure to consider what you’re typing in the subject line, when to send more than one email and when not to email at all.  Read Holland Cooke’s piece here.

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Cox Enterprises Announces $1 Million Donation to Oklahoma Tornado Relief.  The parent company of Cox Media Group – Cox Enterprises – announces that in partnership with the James L. Cox Foundation it is donating $1 million in support of relief and recovery efforts.  “Cox Enterprises is committed to supporting the victims of this terrible storm,” says Jim Kennedy, chairman of Cox Enterprises. “As a company that operates multiple businesses in Oklahoma, we are committed to helping our employees and the communities we serve recover from this disaster. In providing this assistance, we also encourage others to support the local relief and recovery efforts.”  Cox Enterprises operates multiple companies in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, including: Cox Communications, Total Resource Auctions – Oklahoma City, Total Resource Auctions – Tulsa, news/talk KRMG, Fox23, My41, country KWEN, Tulsa “K95,” hot AC KRAV, Tulsa “Mix 96” and rock KJSR, Tulsa “Rock 103.”  “In this difficult time of recovery and rebuilding, our hearts go out to the families affected by the tornadoes,” states Percy Kirk, senior vice president and general manager, Cox Communications Oklahoma. “This gift is a symbol of our commitment to our community and it is our hope that it will provide comfort and relief to many.”  In addition to the cash donation and in-kind public service announcements, Cox’s local media properties in Tulsa are hosting a series of community fundraisers.

Clear Channel Announces Bid to Push Back Debt with Bond Exchange.  Clear Channel Communications announces it is seeking to push off some debt until 2021 via a $2.1 billion bond exchange.  The company is offering to swap $796.3 million of 10.75% notes due in 2016 and $1.28 billion of 11% payment-in-kind notes due in 2016 for the new debt that would come up in 2021.  The notes will pay 12% in cash and 2% through the issuance of payment-in-kind notes.   Bloomberg’s Mary Childs reports, “Free cash flow at the San Antonio-based broadcaster hasn’t exceeded $340.9 million in any year since its 2008 buyout by Bain Capital Partners LLC and Thomas H. Lee Partners LP.  Credit-default swaps tied to the bonds of the company, which owes about $20.8 billion total, are at about the lowest in two years, a sign investors are open to refinancing, Bloomberg data show.”

SiriusXM Touts Soaring Free Cash Flow and ‘Superior Revenue Model.’  At the satellite radio company’s annual shareholder meeting yesterday, CEO Jim Meyer delivered a presentation highlighting the company’s strengths.  Meyer showed a slide boasting SiriusXM’s “superior revenue model” in which he reported the company earns $142.34 per subscriber and compared that figure to Clear Channel’s earning $12.91 per listener and Pandora’s $6.51 per active user.  Meyer also reported positive figures and about new car sales, the dramatic increase in SiriusXM-enabled vehicles in operation and touted the company’s place in the fight for the digital dashboard saying, “SiriusXM’s ability to deliver service via its satellite network and wireless networks cannot be matched by IP-only competitors.”  SiriusXM reported free cash flow of $142 million for the first quarter of 2013 and it believes it will crest the $900 million plateau for all of this year.  Meyer also stated the company believes it will top the 25-million-subscriber mark before the end of 2013.

K-Earth’s Lisa Stanley Wins Gracie Award.  KRTH, Los Angeles morning show co-host Lisa Stanley – who works alongside Gary Bryan on his “K-EARTH 101” morning show – was honored with a Gracie Award as the Outstanding Host in the field of Entertainment/Information on Radio in a Local market – Los Angeles.  Stanley has been on the show for 11 years, after performing similar duties as sidekick to Rick Dees previously.  Stanley also worked on TV on “Hard Copy” and “Extra.”  She says, “I am thrilled with this recognition for my work.  I want to thank CBS and ‘K-EARTH,’ as well as all of the superstars who have supported me by guesting on the show over the years and believing in me enough to give me their scoops.  I look forward to continue having a great time every morning on the air.”

Brian Hatfield Named PM Drive Host at ‘Y-100’ San Antonio.  Cox Media Group announces Brian Hatfield is the new PM drive host at KCYY, San Antonio “Y-100.”  Operations manager Jeff Garrison says, “San Antonio, get ready for The Hat Man!  Brian’s passion and excitement for country music is unmatched.  He will deliver that every day to the ‘Y-100’ listeners, and we’re very excited to have Brian aboard ‘The Y-100’ team!”  During his career, Hatfield has had many accolades, including CMA Station of the Year 2009 and Country Radio Broadcasters/Country Aircheck Music Director of the Year 2010, 2011.  About this new position, Hatfield says, “Wow, I am blessed and fortunate to not only work for a great company like Cox Media Group, but also to work at the legendary KCYY is a dream.  It’s about making history, and with Jeff Garrison’s leadership, things are about to get interesting.”  Hatfield most recently served as PD and music director at Clear Channel’s country WKSF, Asheville, North Carolina “99.9 Kiss Country.”

More RadioInfo Career Moves.  Andrew Rosen moves from his VP of strategic sales post at Target Spot to Connoisseur Media where he’ll serve as market manager for the Trenton, New Jersey stations including hot AC WPST “94.5 PST” and Christian WCHR…..At 6 Johnson Road Licenses’ CHR WZRT, Rutland, Vermont “Z97.1,” program director Amber Stone gives up that role to return to her previous post as music director and midday personality…..Brown Broadcasting’s alternative WBRU, Providence names Eliza Soros the new music director.  She takes over for Olivia Petrocco.

Arbitron/Edison’s ‘Infinite Dial 2013’ Adult Contemporary Report.  Arbitron and Edison Research issues an extension of its “Infinite Dial 2013” research report that focuses on P1s of adult contemporary stations.  Some of the key data points from this breakout include:

• Roughly 1/5 of AC P1s listened to Pandora in the last week.
• When it comes to brand awareness of digital radio among AC P1s, Pandora led the pack with 65% aware of the service; iHeartRadio followed with 45% aware and Spotify with 18% aware.
• 57% of AC P1s always have their cell phones within arm’s reach, compared to 52% for the 12-plus population.
• 40% of AC P1s wake up to a cell phone.
• 39% of AC P1s own a tablet device compared to 29% for the 12-plus population.
• 31% of AC P1s use a social networking site “several times per day” compared to 27% for the 12-plus population.
• AC P1s are more likely than the rest of the 12-plus population to use AM/FM in the car, a CD player or an mp3 player but less likely to use satellite radio or online radio.
• 55% of the AC P1s are likely to have listened to AM/FM radio prior to arriving at a store to shop – compared to 49% for the 12-plus population.

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Radio Goes into Emergency Mode in Oklahoma City.  The EF5 tornado that moved through the Oklahoma City area on Monday reportedly has taken up to 24 lives, including 9 children trapped in an elementary school in the suburb of Moore.  But officials are saying the death toll could have been worse had it not been for the local radio stations that went into action warning residents about the storm almost 30 minutes before the tornado touched down.  As the twister approached and cell service began to overload, local radio outlets remained on air.  Reports to RadioInfo indicate most stations went into wall-to-wall storm mode using either audio from a news/talk outlet or by using audio from a local TV station.  Radio’s role has just begun as many of those who are seeking information about emergency services will rely on radio.  Numerous broadcasting companies are already organizing relief efforts for those affected by the tornado.  As storms moved across the Plains states on Sunday, Pottawatomie County Sheriff Mike Booth was cited in an Associated Press story crediting local TV and radio stations’ wall-to-wall broadcasts covering the storms for keeping the death toll low.

Dave and Chuck the Freak Officially Named WRIF, Detroit AM Team.  It’s been rumored for a couple of weeks now but it became official yesterday that former alternative CIMX, Windsor morning show Dave and Chuck the Freak – along with Lisa Way – will take over the morning drive show on Greater Media’s rock WRIF, Detroit.  Dave Hunter and Chuck Urquhart hosted their successful morning show on “89X” for nearly a decade.  Greater Media says “The new show will continue to incorporate heavy listener interaction, both live on the air and through the use of social media.  In addition to having a large and loyal on-air listener base, the ‘Dave and Chuck the Freak Show’ is highly focused on the latest technology trends and consumer habits, which have translated into a strong interactive audience with more than 90,000 Facebook followers.”  Market manager Steve Chessare states, “WRIF has dominated morning radio in Detroit for 20 years.  Now, with the addition of the infamous and highly rated Dave and Chuck the Freak Show, ‘101 WRIF-FM’ is positioned to continue to dominate the Detroit morning airwaves for years to come.  We are thrilled to welcome them to the Greater Media family.”  In a statement, Dave Hunter says, “To say we’re excited to start our next adventure at the legendary WRIF is a massive understatement.  We look forward to reconnecting with our fans and having them be a part of the show every weekday morning.”

NAB Announces Ginny Morris to Receive National Radio Award.  The National Association of Broadcasters announces that Ginny Hubbard Morris, chair of Hubbard Radio LLC, will receive the National Radio Award during the Radio Show Luncheon on Friday, September 20 at 2013 Radio Show in Orlando.  NAB EVP of radio John David states, “Ginny Morris is highly regarded for her leadership and success.  It is a tremendous honor to recognize Ginny for her continuous dedication to radio and for her many accomplishments and contributions to the business.”  The NAB notes that Morris has more than 30 years of broadcast industry, business and general management experience.  As chair of Hubbard Radio LLC, Morris is responsible for managing the strategic direction for Hubbard’s 21 radio stations throughout Chicago, Washington D.C., Minneapolis/St. Paul, St. Louis and Cincinnati.  As part of the company’s growth strategy, in 2011, Morris led Hubbard’s acquisition of 17 radio stations from Bonneville International Corporation, strengthening Hubbard’s national reach and significantly expanding its industry footprint.  Morris originally joined her family’s broadcasting business in 1982 and worked her way to management positions before becoming president and general manager of KSTP-FM and KSTP-AM in 1995.

Syndicated Classic Rock Show “On Tap” Generously Sharing Ray Manzarek Interview Audio with Non-Affiliates.  The death of Doors keyboardist Ray Manzarek stands as a milestone in rock history and is a tremendously significant cultural loss and event within the world of the classic rock radio community.  KMG Networks head Gary Krantz tells RadioInfo that the national program “On Tap Hosted by Nick Carter,” syndicated by VH1 and his company, is making available a wide variety of Ray Mazarek interview audio from the VH1 archives at no cost to radio stations around the country looking to create their own tributes.  These files include Manzarek talking about a diversity of topics including music, staying youthful, music, working with Jim Morrison and even death.  Stations interested in downloading this material should contact Gary Krantz at gkrantz@krantzmediagroup.com.  RadioInfo resident radio historian and music editor Duane Doobie comments, “Thank you Gary Krantz, KMG and VH1.  You are doing a wonderful thing making this material available to stations.  Ray Manzarek was a very special rock star who was extremely popular with rock radio DJs back in the day – all the way to the present – because of the down-to-earth intelligence he brought to music radio interviews on a regular basis.  If you talk to anyone in this business who has their roots in album rock radio on-air jocking, they are likely to tell you about the great relationship they enjoyed just ‘knowing’ Ray Manzarek.  Man, are we going to miss that wonderful guy!”

Cumulus Names Bill Pugh OM for KFOG and KSAN, San Francisco.  Cumulus Media announces Bill Pugh is the new operations manager for its two rock outlets in San Francisco – triple A KFOG and classic rock KSAN “The Bone.”  Also, effective immediately, Pugh will serve as program director for KFOG.  The veteran programmer was most recently operations manager for Clear Channel’s San Diego cluster.  On his new gig, Pugh states, “I am very excited to join the Cumulus team and looking forward to all the opportunities to expand the brand in San Francisco.”

More RadioInfo Career Moves.  LDR names Tracy Gilliam of TopLine Matters Inc. director of sales where she’ll oversee affiliate sales and station sales support.  LDR also announces the addition of Todd Frost, Steve DiMatteo, Sarah Davis and Mark Ediss to the company’s staff…..Stephens Media Group brings former Cox Media Tulsa local sales manager Rick Collier aboard to serve as national sales manager.  Stephens operates Christian contemporary KXOJ and sports talk KYAL “The Sports Animal.”…..Jon Smith is the new midday personality on Simmons Media’s alternative KXRK, Salt Lake City “X96,” replacing Marci Wiser…..Alex Cadelago is named vice president and director of sales for CBS Radio’s Houston cluster that includes country KILT-FM, sports KILT-AM, sports KIKK, CHR KKHH “Hot 95.7,” hot AC KHMX and Spanish KLOL…..Gina Lee Fuentez joins Univision’s CHR KKRG, Albuquerque “La Kalle” for mornings…..Katelyn Maida is upped from her weekend on-air post for Cox Media Houston to producer/social media for country KKBQ, classic country KTHT and classic hits simulcast KGLK and KHPT…..Recent Emerson College grad Kendall Stewart joins Northeast Broadcasting’s triple A WXRV, Boston “The River” as programming assistant.

Five Secrets to Hiring Excellent Digital Sellers.  “Made you look!” teases Sabo Media chairman and RadioInfo magazine columnist Walter Sabo.  The truth is that finding effective digital media sellers is exceedingly difficult and anyone who’s tried to hire digital sales pros knows this.  Walter Sabo writes that the reason is digital buyers don’t know how to buy digital advertising.  Who’s fault is that?  According to Sabo, the rules for return on investment for a digital ad do not exist – or at least there’s no industry-wide agreement on how to measure ROI.  Read more about this vexing problem that is hampering the sale of digital ads here.

One Lucky WAAF, Boston Listener.  The only way to get tickets to the WAAF-hosted acoustic performance by Chris Cornell and Ben Shepherd of Soundgarden at a secret location was to win your way in as an AAF Army member (WAAF Loyalty Club).  Littleton, Massachusetts resident Annie Durkin was that lucky AAF Army member.  She’s pictured here with Cornell (l) and Shepherd (r) at The Sinclair in Cambridge, Massachusetts at the May 15^th performance.

Monday, May 20, 2013

Mike & Tanya Joins Nikki for ‘Morning Mess’ at KBFF, Portland.  Alpha Broadcasting’s hot AC KBFF, Portland “Live 95.5” brings Mike Edwards and Tanya Brown aboard from Cumulus Media’s WSSX, Charleston, South Carolina to join current AM drive host Nikki West for its new “Morning Mess with Tanya, Nikki and Mike” show.  Brown and Edwards had hosted the “Two Girls and a Guy” morning show on WSSX and KBFF program director Louie Diaz says he’s had his eye on them.  “I’ve been listening to Mike & Tanya for a while.  They are now ready for PPM major league mornings.  This is just another example of Alpha’s commitment to live and local radio.  ‘The Morning Mess’ will be delivering unique and compelling audio to help Portland start the day off right.”

Jessica Chandler and Ryan Walker Are New Girl and Guy at ‘95SX’ in Charleston.  With the departure of Mike Edwards and Tanya Brown for Alpha Broadcasting’s “Live 95.5” in Portland, Cumulus Media’s CHR WSSX, Charleston, South Carolina “95SX” brings Jessica Chandler and Ryan Walker in to partner with Kelly G for the new “Two Girls and a Guy” morning show.  Chandler and Walker move over from the company’s country WIWF “96.9 The Wolf.”  Chandler tells the Charleston City Paper, “When Tanya and Mike left, they asked me and Ryan to come over from their sister station and join the show.  We’re excited for the opportunity and to switch from country to pop.  We’re all around the same age, and it’ll be a younger and fresher take on the show.  ‘Two Girls and a Guy’ is always evolving, and it keeps getting better.”

New Morning Show at ‘98.7 The Bull’ in Portland.  At Alpha Broadcasting’s country KUPL, Portland “98.7 The Bull,” current morning host Jake Byron is partnered with Howie Drummond – most recently with Entercom’s hot AC KALC, Denver “Alice 105.9” – and Monica Lunsford – formerly of Cumulus Media’s WRWM, Indianapolis “i94” – to former the “Morning Bull Ride with Howie, Monica and Jake.”  The program premiered this morning and director of programming Scott Mahalick states, “We are proud to have such world-class talent on the team!”

More RadioInfo Career Moves.  At Main Line Broadcasting’s CHR WDJX, Louisville, midday personality Sarah Jordan adds assistant music director to her responsibilities…..Gundy begins hosting the night show at Bahakel Communications’ alternative KRXP, Colorado Springs tonight (5/20).  He’ll also host the “Colorado Native” program that showcases local bands.  Gundy comes to KRXP from his operations manager post at Appaloosa Broadcasting in Cheyenne.

Time to Clean Up Digital Space for Summer.  With Memorial Day weekend about to roll around, digital radio consultant and RadioInfo columnist Chris Miller suggests this is a good time to start making big moves in small chunks and get your website and social media initiatives up to speed with a little upgrading.  In a new column posted today (5/20) Miller offers a punch list of items you can work on each week between now and Labor Day to get your website and social media fixed up, and ready to totally support your on-air product this fall!  They include writing down your goals, taking something OFF your website, picking fonts and colors, freshening your Facebook page cover photo, checking your tabs for relevance, cutting back on posts by setting and raising your standards, focusing Twitter on something specific, and properly prioritizing Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest by de-emphasizing them as social sites and using them more for storage and as content channels.  To read Chris Miller’s entire article, click here.

CBS Radio’s KROQ, Los Angeles Hosts Surprise Stone Temple Pilots Appearance at ‘Weenie Roast.’  CBS Radio scores two exclusive appearances by the Stone Temple Pilots – first at KROQ, Los Angeles’ “Weenie Roast” concert at the Verizon Amphitheater on Saturday followed by KITS, San Francisco’s “BFD 2013” concert at the Shoreline Amphitheater on Sunday evening.  In Los Angeles, STP performed a surprise set of its classic songs plus the new single, “Out of Time.”  The band performed with Linkin Park vocalist Chester Bennington filling the slot of recently dismissed singer Scott Weiland.  The band spoke with KROQ morning team Kevin & Bean after its performance and the entire conversation is being aired on the duo’s program today.  Also, CBS Radio states that in an exclusive to its Radio.com, “Out of Time,” is available for free download and on-demand listening via CBS Radio’s online and mobile destination for the best in music, sports, talk and news programming.  As a part of CBS Radio’s ‘Amplify’ initiative, audio clips of the song will also be heard on air on CBS Radio’s rock and adult hit music stations, and in a unique opportunity for sports fans, “Out of Time” will be highlighted across the company’s local sports stations and CBS Sports Radio programming, for a combined reach of nearly 300 stations nationwide.

Worlds Collide on Opie & Anthony’s SiriusXM Show.  SiriusXM’s Opie & Anthony are known for broadcasting the unusual but this collage of guests from disparate worlds really takes the cake.  Picture here are (from l-r) comic Colin Quinn, celebrity chef Guy Fieri, SiriusXM host Anthony Cumia, country music superstar Trace Adkins, SiriusXM host Opie Hughes, and comic Tom Papa.  The collision happened on the O&A show last week as the four guests all happened to be scheduled for the same day and appeared on the program at the same time.

Radio Advertising Bureau Unveils New ‘State-of-the-Art’ Website.  The RAB proudly announces the debut of the new www.RAB.com .  Calling it an “updated, fresh design,” the RAB says the new site was created “with today’s mobile salesperson in mind.”  The site uses a responsive design that automatically reacts to a visitor’s screen size, so RAB members can search for vital sales intelligence, consumer insights and sales material support no matter if they’re on their desktop, in the office, or using any mobile device including tablets and smart phones.  The section for radio managers, account executives and associate members is navigated through the 7 Steps to Selling Success, a set of principles reinforced through RAB Professional Development training and certification courses.  It features sections devoted to prospecting, appointments, research, creative, and proposals and presentations.  Managers will also find their own dedicated section with important links to RAB Professional Development, management articles, and sales tips.  Radio account executives will find a number of new and exciting features including “Trending Now on RAB.com.”  Based on real-time traffic across the new RAB.com, account executives will see what topics, articles, reports, etc. are growing in popularity.  Favorite RAB services such as Articles on Demand, Instant Backgrounds, prospecting reports, consumer profiles, commercial scripts, mp3 commercial audio and RAB’s co-op library are all available on the site with easy-to-find functionality.  RAB president and CEO Erica Farber says, “The RAB prides itself on delivering the most current products, information and resources to our members.  Redesigning this site with total mobile capabilities was a ‘must have.’  In order to remain competitive, our members need to access current services and data while on the go.”

Friday, May 17, 2013

RAB: Radio Flat at $3.5 Billion in Q1.  The Radio Advertising Bureau releases data indicating that the first quarter of 2013 remained flat “aided by an uptick in Spot in March after a sluggish start to the year.  Both Digital and Off-Air performed well throughout the quarter and were up 9% and 5% respectively.”  The report breaks out data on advertising categories.  A synopsis shows “spot spending by communication/cellular advertisers soared by over 1/3 (36%) for this quarter, propelling the category to #1 for the period.  Also up – in rank order based on spending – were financial services (+13%), department/discount stores & shopping centers (+58%), and home furnishings/floor coverings (+6%).  While dollar volume was virtually flat for television/networks/cable providers (-3%) and restaurants (-2%), these were solid contributors to radio’s bottom line in the #2 and #4 spots; automotive declined 20% and slipped to the #3 rank.”  RAB president and CEO Erica Farber states, “Major increases in radio advertising by communications/cellular and financial services went a long way to offset a drop in automotive spending.  Additionally, spending is up in the department/discount stores category – reflecting increased confidence among retailers who have experienced radio’s ability to drive traffic and sales.  Radio’s digital sector revenue continues to grow as radio stations invest in and promote their digital offerings to listeners, driving increased attention by the ad buying community.”  The report features data from Miller Kaplan Arase LLP and the Q1 revenue figure does not include network radio data.  Read the entire report here.

Top 40 Programming Legend Paul Drew Passes at 78.  The radio industry is mourning legendary Top 40 radio programmer Paul Drew who died on May 16 of natural causes at his residence at Victor Royale Assisted Living in Glendale, California.  Drew was a Detroit native who began his professional radio career in Atlanta working first for WAKE, then moving to WGST and WQXI.  He would work at CKLW, Windsor/Detroit; WIBG, Philadelphia; and KFRC, San Francisco before joining Los Angeles’ legendary KHJ.  He joined the corporate ranks with RKO General as vice president of programming for the company that owned KHJ and KRTH in Los Angeles as well as WOR and WXLO in New York City.  Later, he was a partner in the Drew-Atkinson Associates radio consulting firm and was named by President Ronald Reagan as the first director of the USIA’s Radio Marti Project.  Commenting on the passing of Drew, RadioInfo publisher Michael Harrison recalls, “I’ll never forget watching Paul Drew in action and the impact he had on the industry back in the seventies, not to mention his distinct image as a somewhat scary, almost military ‘general’ kind of figure out of a movie.  Whereas most programming types in those days wore t-shirts and jeans, he was always in a dark suit.  I was in Los Angeles serving as managing editor of R&R at the same time he operated out of top 40 KHJ so I got a bird’s eye view of him from an industrial perspective.  He was not only regarded as the most ‘powerful’ man in radio — but in the record business as well and was a key figure in the symbiotic relationship that existed between the two industries at that time.   Whenever you saw him around town (the industry was a real community in that time and place) – at a party, or out at a business lunch or dinner at a popular watering hole – he usually was wearing a little earphone, the 1975 version of the ear bud – connected to a transistor radio in his suit pocket reportedly always tuned to top 40 giant KHJ.  It was weird seeing this short, intense grown man in a suit in those days always wearing an ear plug.  Made him seem… kind of bionic.  He was thus ‘always’ tuned into KHJ ‘patrolling’ the station to make sure the jocks never strayed from his seemingly sacred formatics.  And when they occasionally did, he immediately called them on the phone – lights would start flashing in the studio – and they would receive a sound scolding.  The RKO General chain of top 40 stations in those days was considered the absolute most important block of stations in controlling the fate of singles and Drew was the supreme commander of what records the chain would add or drop from its playlist.  Remember, these were the golden days of music sales and music biz glitz in Hollywood.  The record industry treated Drew like he was the Pope.  Tuesday nights were music nights when we tallied up the playlist changes and the record guys would wait with baited breath for whatever pronouncements controlling their fate that week came from Paul Drew over at RKO headquarters at KHJ.  He was an unforgettable figure at an amazingly colorful time in this business.”

Detroit Bids Adieu to Drew & Mike on WRIF.  Longtime morning drive duo Drew Lane and Mike Clark said good-bye to fans during an emotional final program on Greater Media’s rock WRIF, Detroit.  The station is replacing the tenured morning team with a yet-to-be-announced morning show.  The consistent rumor being heard in the Motor City is that former alternative CIMX, Windsor morning team Dave and Chuck the Freak will soon be announced as replacements.  Meanwhile, Meltdown is hosting AM drive.  Drew and Mike, along with longtime news person Trudi Daniels, took calls from listeners and past on-air contributors from 6:00 am through 11:30 am during their final show on the radio station.  Greater Media market manager Steve Chessare says, “They have been a big part of WRIF-FM’s legendary history in the Motor City.  They are true professionals and a class act.  We wish them the very best.”

Steve Sinicropi Jumps to Entercom Greenville.  After years with Cox Media Group’s Greenville, South Carolina cluster and exiting just after the cluster was taken over by new owner SummitMedia, radio exec Steve Sinicropi moves across town to the Entercom Greenville operations where he’ll serve as vice president and market manager for the cluster that includes: CHR WFBC “B93.7,’ news/talk WORD-AM/FM, classic rock WROQ, rock WTPT “New Rock 93.3 The Planet,” and AC WSPA “Magic 98.9.”  Sinicropi states, “I am thrilled to join the Entercom team.  This is an incredible opportunity to join one of the largest and most respected broadcasters in the country.  Entercom Greenville has five powerful brands and great digital assets along with the largest audience in the Greenville/Spartanburg market.  I’m looking forward to working with the Entercom team to serve our listeners through great programing, provide unparalleled service to the community, and help our advertisers create and execute the best marketing and advertising solutions in the Upstate of South Carolina.”

Clear Channel Reaches Revenue Sharing Agreement with Zojak World Wide.  Jamaican music distributor Zojak World Wide and Clear Channel Media and Entertainment enter into an agreement that allows Zojak’s artists to receive revenue from the latter’s broadcast and digital music streams.  In a press release, it’s noted that after only five years in business, Zojak is credited with bringing the digital revolution to the Jamaican music industry.  The company distributes and promotes the music of more than 750 reggae labels and their artists, and maintains the largest digital distribution catalog of Jamaican music in the world.  In March 2013, Zojak made history when dancehall star David “Mavado” Brooks became the first Caribbean artist to receive an exclusive video premiere on Billboard with his new single “Take It,” featuring Karian Sang.  Founded in Chicago in 2007, Zojak now has operations in Kingston, Jamaica and Miami, Florida.  Clear Channel chairman and CEO Bob Pittman states, “Zojak has built an impressive music catalog in a short time by collaborating with artists, producers and record labels, to focus on distributing its clients’ music digitally.  We are very excited to partner with a company that shares our goal of creating a sustainable business model for the future of the digital radio industry.”

Steve Borneman Exits Clear Channel New York.  Steve Borneman’s tenure with Clear Channel New York ends after six months.  The executive came aboard CC in New York shortly after the company’s acquisition of news/talk WOR from Buckley Broadcasting.  Previously he had been the vice president and general manager at Cumulus Media’s crosstown cluster that includes news/talk WABC and hot AC WPLJ.

More RadioInfo Career Moves.  YMF Media’s hip hop WBLS, New York welcomes rap legend Doug E. Fresh to the air staff with a weekend program dubbed, “The Show” that airs on Saturday mornings from 9:00 am to 11:00 am…..DJ Ekin is officially named evening jock at Cox Media Group’s CHR WPOI, Tampa “Hot101.5” where he’s been working on an interim basis.…..Beasley Broadcasting’s sports talk WQAM, Miami announces David Wolfman is the new local sales manager at the station.  Wolfman reports to director of sales Keriann Worley.  He comes to Beasley from his most recent position as general sales manager for Clear Channel Miami…..Clear Channel names Adam Schraf the new program director at CHR WVRT, Williamsport, Pennsylvania “V97.”  He moves to that post from his previous position as a traffic reporter with Total Traffic Network.

Clear Channel Adds New Rock Outlet to Fort Collins Market.  The new triple A station – “Radio 94.9 Colorado’s Finest Rock” – airs on the HD-2 channel of KPAW as well as on translator K235BT at 94.9 FM.  Market manager Stu Haskell says in a statement, “‘Radio 94.9’ will be a perfect fit for the Fort Collins local music scene and lifestyle.  We’re especially excited to spotlight local artists as part of our regular programming and offer the local community a unique radio station that has been missing from this area for a long time.”

Final Round of April PPM Data Released.  The last batch of April 2013 PPM data from Arbitron for the 12 markets including Austin, Milwaukee, Indianapolis, Providence, Raleigh, Norfolk, Nashville, Greensboro, West Palm Beach, Jacksonville, Memphis, and Hartford and those complete charts are available here.  The following is RadioInfo managing editor and West Coast bureau chief Mike Kinosian’s “Ten Takeaways” from these markets:

• Austin — Crista Ministries contemporary Christian KFMK “Spirit 105.9″ more than doubles its six-tenths February-March gain with a whopping +1.4. In addition to climbing from #15 in March to #11, “Spirit 105.9″ is back to the 4.2 (6+) it had in the “Holiday” report.

• Milwaukee — After taking a nine-tenths February-March slide, heritage Journal Broadcast Group talk outlet WTMJ posts a stunning +1.6 to 7.1 (6+) and the Brewers’ flagship advances from #5 to #4.

• Indianapolis — This marks the fourth consecutive month that the market’s top two stations (6+) are country-formatted rivals. The twist this time though is that, with a powerful +1.3 (March-April) to 8.6, WLHK (Emmis’ “Hank”) is first and Cumulus Media’s WFMS (7.8 – 7.2) slips to second. WFMS had beaten “Hank” in every report since last May (2012), when the two country outlets shared #1 honors by tying each other at 8.1. Also of significance, Hank’s 8.6 represents its most potent 6+ stat in Indianapolis’ PPM history of 37 monthlies.

• Raleigh — Continues to be on a roll, WRDU (formerly WRVA) posts its fourth successive up trend. Since the “Holiday” report, the Clear Channel classic rocker has advanced 3.4 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.4 – 5.1 and now ranks #7, compared to #12 in the “Holiday” survey period.

• Nashville — It is a strong month for country in “Music City USA,” as all three major FM country signals notch March-April progression and rank in the top 10. WKDF (Cumulus’ “Today’s Country”) gains back exactly the eight-tenths it lost February-March (6.2, #5); WSIX-FM (Clear Channel’s “The Big 98″) is up one-half share (5.2, #8); and WSM-FM (Cumulus’ “95.5 FM”) regains its three-tenths February-March erosion (4.8, #10). Meanwhile, after consecutive months at 2.1 (February and March), Salem contemporary Christian WFFH “The Fish” enjoys a +1.3 to 3.4 and advances from #16 to #13.

• Greensboro — Make it five straight positive trends for WJMH “102 Jamz,” with the latest being a +.7 – which elevates the Entercom rhythmic CHR to #2. Going back to December, WJMH’s (6+) trend reads: 7.4 – 7.5 – 7.9 – 8.3 – 8.4 – 9.1. In addition, the country battle tightens with Entercom’s WPAW “The Wolf” up two-tenths (8.6, #3) and Clear Channel’s WTQR “New Country – Q104.1″ gaining six-tenths (8.3, #4)

• West Palm Beach — Following an impressive +1.3 to 9.4 (February-March, 6+), hot AC WRMF adds another 1.6 shares. Not only is 97.9 FM WRMF #1 for the 13th successive report, its lead over runner-ups WLDI (flat) and WOLL (+.5) is an even five shares.

• Providence — Although Entercom-owned sports outlet WVEI-FM remains at #8, the Boston Red Sox radio network affiliate registers a potent +1.5 to 4.9, its best 6+ share since January 2012′s 6.2. Its Boston sibling, WEEI-FM, is the AL East team’s flagship.

• Memphis — After a nine-tenths February-March dip to 4.5 (6+), Cumulus Media’s WGKX “Today’s Best Country – Kix 106″ more than bounces back with a +1.5 and inches up from #7 to #5.

• Hartford — Accustomed to racking up double-digits (6+), CBS Radio adult contemporary WRCH “Lite” is in single-digits for the fourth successive month. In addition to being down seven-tenths to 8.9, “Lite” is caught at #1 by Buckley Broadcasting’s classic hits-oldies WDRC-FM “The Big D.” WRCH had been in sole possession of first place for the past 20 monthlies.