Thursday, June 20, 2013

Beasley Broadcasting Names Justin Chase to New Corporate VP of Programming.  The promotion of Justin Chase from operations manager for Beasley’s three Las Vegas music outlets – KCYE, KKLZ and KOAS (as well as GGB Las Vegas-owned KVGS) – to the new coporate post of vice president of programming gives Chase the charge of overseeing all programming responsibilities for the company’s portfolio of 40-plus radio stations located in 11 radio markets across the country.  The company adds other duties to the position with Chase being charged with “developing creative campaigns that extend the radio stations’ on-air brands to the digital space.”  Chase reports to president and COO Bruce Beasley.  The company lauds Chase for the ratings and revenue growth the stations have experienced since he came aboard in 2009 – from CBS Radio’s crosstown AC KMXB — making Las Vegas one of the company’s top-performing markets.  Bruce Beasley states, “Justin possesses all the traits and strengths we were we looking for in a vice president of programming when we decided to create the position at Beasley’s corporate level.  Over the last four years with our company, he has demonstrated his ability to program numerous formats, develop and maintain strong relationships within the industry and create campaigns that extend stations’ on-air brands to digital platforms.  We believe Justin is the perfect fit for this new position.”

Louie Cruz Appointed Program Director of ‘95.7 Kiss FM’ in San Diego.  Louie Cruz comes to Clear Channel’s urban contemporary KSSX, San Diego “95.7 Kiss FM” from his most recent position at Buckley Broadcasting’s KKBB, Bakersfield “Groove 99.3.”  Clear Channel VP of programming San Diego John Peake says of Cruz, “Louie’s personal connection and successful track record with the rhythmic AC format are an ideal match for ‘95.7 Kiss FM.  We’re excited to add Louie’s tremendous format experience, winning attitude and a great work ethic to San Diego’s hottest new radio station.”

More RadioInfo Career Moves.  Clear Channel promotes part-time air personality Ashlee Foxx to full-time evening jock at country WSIX, Nashville.  She had been working at sister station CHR WRVW “107.5 The River.”…..Marc Alghini is named program director at Advanced Media Partners’ rock WWCT, Peoria “Progressive Radio for Central Illinois.”  He comes to the station from WXRT, Chicago where he’s served as jock, AM show producer and social media contributor.

Greater Media’s Rock WRAT, Point Pleasant, New Jersey Wins Honors at New Jersey Broadcasters Association Convention.  At the New Jersey Broadcasters Association convention in Atlantic City on Wednesday, Greater Media rock station WRAT, Point Pleasant, New Jersey was honored with two awards during a special awards luncheon.  The station won Best News 2012 Award for its “Superstorm Sandy Community Coverage.”  In addition, Scott Edwards and the WRAT team received the Best Commercial 2012 Award for the station’s “E Street Bagels” submission.  Greater Media chairman and CEO Peter Smyth states, “I am so very proud of Dan Finn, Carl Craft, Scott Edwards and the entire WRAT team for receiving these coveted awards.  They are a shining example of what radio does to help the communities it serves during challenging times.  I am so very proud to have them in our Greater Media family.”

Arbitron Modifies TLR Policy Affecting Out-of-Market Streaming.  Arbitron announces a modification to its Total Line Reporting policy beginning with the Summer Diary Survey and the July 2013 PPM.  Arbitron explains: Over-the-air stations and streams that simulcast have been eligible for Total Line Reporting (TLR) for a number of years.  Combos that receive TLR are reported with a combined total line using the “primary” station’s call letters, selected by the combo from among the over-the-air stations.  Until May 2013, in order to be eligible for TLR, a stream had to simulcast 100% with its over-the-air partner, including any commercials, throughout the stream’s reach. Starting May 2013, Arbitron introduced a change in the policy that enables a stream to receive TLR while substituting commercials outside the home market of its over-the-air partner, subject to certain restrictions. After carefully reviewing this policy and with input from the Radio Advisory Council, Arbitron is modifying this policy to provide greater flexibility to stations that stream.  Starting with the July 2013 PPM report month and Summer 2013 Diary survey, a stream is eligible for TLR as long as the stream simulcasts all content 100%, including commercials, in the home Metro and DMA of its over-the-air partner. Under this new policy, the stream is not required to simulcast any content outside the over-the-air station’s home Metro and DMA. The 100% simulcast requirement for streams will remain in effect in the over-the-air station’s Metro and DMA. Over-the-air stations requesting TLR with one another will also need to simulcast 100% without exception, as required under the long-standing Arbitron TLR policy.

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Carson Daly Expands Role with New CBS Radio/Cumulus Co-Operative Effort.  The morning drive host on CBS Radio’s KAMP, Los Angeles “AMP 97.1” will begin hosting two new weekly pop music countdown programs that will launch on 70 CBS Radio and Cumulus Media stations on July 6.  “The Daly Download with Carson Daly – This Week’s Top 30” will be produced in four-hour CHR and three-hour hot AC formats.  CBS Radio SVP of programming and “AMP 97.1” program director Kevin Weatherly says, “Pop music continues to drive audience growth for CBS Radio stations and our Radio.com platform.  The increases are clearly being fueled by a younger generation of listeners who can’t get enough programming centered around this type of music.  ‘The Daly Download’ satisfies that need while showcasing one of our most influential music personalities.”  CBS Radio will produce the programs and Cumulus Media Networks will manage affiliate relations and sales.  Daly says of the new project, “I’m a self-professed radio guy and an avid music enthusiast.  Music has been my passion since I was a kid and it’s certainly been the through-line of my career.  I feel at home on the radio and look forward to connecting with new listeners by highlighting the top songs around the country.  I’m happy to continue my collaboration with CBS Radio, and I’m excited for the opportunity to work with Cumulus Media Networks.”

Jon Schweitzer Becomes VP of Sales for Cumulus Kansas City.  It’s a return to Kansas City for radio management pro Jon Schweitzer who was general manager at rock KQRC in the market when Journal Broadcast Group owned it.  In a statement, the company says Schweitzer’s work with the seven-station cluster will focus primarily on urban AC KMJK “Magic 107.3” and adult hits KCJK “105.1 Jack FM.”   Cumulus Kansas City regional vice president and general manager Mark Sullivan says, “This is an exciting day for us here in Kansas City!  We’re eager for Jon to share his great enthusiasm and radio experience with the Kansas City team.”  Schweitzer most recently served with Midwest Communications in Sheboygan, Wisconsin.

Todd Baker Moves to Mornings on KZZO, Sacramento.  Morning drive personality Todd Baker leaves CBS Radio’s AC WKQC, Charlotte “K 104.7” to join the company’s hot AC KZZO, Sacramento “NOW 100.5” for the same daypart.  Baker will work with Nina Hajian on the program beginning July 1.  Baker states, “I’m really looking forward to joining Nina and the entire CBS Radio team in Sacramento.  In just a few short years the station has been able to accomplish a lot and it will be great to be a part of their future.  Moving on from Charlotte is bittersweet.  I’ve had tremendous support from the community and station management, and enjoyed getting to know the listeners.  I wish them nothing but the best in the future.”

Phil Harris Takes Over Mornings at WKQC, Charlotte.  With the departure of Todd Baker for CBS Radio’s KZZO, Sacramento, the company brings Phil Harris aboard to host the morning program on adult contemporary “K 104.7.”  Baker had worked at Clear Channel’s crosstown “Lite 102.9” until the station flipped to adult hits in July of 2012.  Operations manager and program director John Reynolds says of Harris, “Phil is a proven talent with strong ties to the Charlotte community.  He is a passionate and committed broadcaster which has earned him respect in the industry.  He will be a strong addition to our lineup.”

On Tap with Nik Carter Lines Up All Star Vacation Schedule.  The nightly KMG Networks syndicated classic rock show “On Tap with Nik Carter” has announced a cool line up of fill-in hosts beginning June 19 sitting in for the vacationing Nik Carter. They include Don Felder on June 19, George Thorogood on June 20 and 21, Penn Jillette on June 24 and 25, and Cheech & Chong on June 26.

Beasley Southwest Florida Launches ‘Modern AC Format’ on Translators.  As part of the consolidation of Beasley Broadcast Group’s Southwest Florida cluster’s rock stations and the addition of an FM signal to its sports talk WWCN, the company removes the sports programming from the FM translators that had been carrying it and debuts a new format to air on the four translators as well as WRXK’s HD-2 signal.  Beasley reports that “96.5 in North Lee County, 98.1 in Lee County, 101.5 in Collier County, and 105.1 on Marco Island will debut a new conceptualized version of the Modern Adult Contemporary format – which will also be available on WRXK-HD2” branded “The Link.”  The company says it “will play the biggest songs from triple A, alternative, and hot AC on one radio station.  The station will run the gamut from today’s top artists such as Imagine Dragons, Muse, Mumford & Sons, .fun, Coldplay along with the format’s legacy artists such as U2, R.E.M., Dave Matthews Band, INXS, and more.  This format is targeted to females 25 – 44 years old, and it will also be programmed by (96 K-Rock programmer) Chris Delozier.  Vice president and market manager Brad Beasley says, “The crossover music between alternative, triple A, and hot AC formats have never been hotter.  We feel a unique radio station celebrating the richest artists in today’s pop/alternative music alongside proven artists with multiple decades of success will deliver a unique upscale audience currently not being served by the many gold-based radio stations in Southwest Florida.”

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Dial Global Brings Ronald Furman Aboard as Chief Revenue Officer.  Ronald Furman comes to Dial Global from his recent post as executive vice president and managing director of Insignia Sports/Entertainment where he led the go-to-market strategies across integrated television, digital, mobile, technology, social, event, live-game, and activation platforms for multiple content properties, including The Pro Football Hall Of Fame, The NFL Alumni Association, various NFL teams and emerging leagues such as WSOF/MMA.  At Dial Global he’ll be responsible for the company’s overall revenue generation.  He will be based in New York City and will report directly to CEO, Paul Caine.  About Furman, Caine says, “Ron is a recognized industry leader who is proficient at building, developing, and leading high-performing sales teams across multiple media properties.  And the timing is perfect, as we announce that Dial Global will broadcast over 90 games this season, including all Monday Night, Sunday Night, and Thursday Night Games, the Thanksgiving Day Triple Header, a full slate of Sunday Afternoon Games, the entire post-season, and Super Bowl XLVIII.  His deep sports knowledge and client relationships are a perfect complement to our strength in the sports market, and we look forward to working closely with Ron as we continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in audio content and distribution.”  During his career Furman has also worked as senior vice president, sports sales at Comcast/NBC Universal, and held senior vice president positions at the NFL, Viacom and Univision Communications.

RadioInfo Debuts New “Media Broker Spotlight” Feature Today (6/18).  In support of the idea that the time is right for displaced radio station managers and first-time buyers to get into radio station ownership, RadioInfo in association with its sister trade publication TALKERS magazine and Sandi Bergman‘s brokerage website RadioTVDeals.com, is launching a weekly feature titled “Media Broker Spotlight.”  Each week’s installment will focus on an individual broker deemed small and independent buyer-friendly — profiling the broker, sharing their opinions of marketplace conditions and highlighting three or four listed opportunities that fall into this category.  RadioInfo publisher Michael Harrison states, ”We strongly believe many of the talented management veterans who presently find themselves on the beach due to the cutbacks plaguing the mega-corporate sector of the industry should consider going into radio station ownership.  They should do so on a modest level going into local markets, rolling up their sleeves, working hands-on and breathing new life into properties that if purchased at the right price still have some tread on their tires.  There are numerous sellers out there willing to play ball with buyers who show the will and know-how to operate a station properly, as well as numerous sources of local and non-traditional financing from investors who believe in the potential of community-oriented radio.  Not every station in America is part of the Clear Channel/Cumulus/CBS complex… and they should not be overlooked.  These independent “orphans,” if you will, can thrive with the proper amount of tender loving care.  The future of AM/FM radio depends on this as do the careers of so many dedicated broadcasters who have a love for radio flowing in their veins.”  This week’s opening installment features media broker Edward F. Seeger of Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina-based Seeger Media, LLC.  To read the feature, click here.

Harvey Kojan Takes Brand Manager Role at Galaxy’s ‘TK99’ in Syracuse.  Programming pro Harvey Kojan is the new brand manager at Galaxy Communications’ classic rock simulcast WTKW and WTKV “TK99” serving the Syracuse/Oswego, New York market.  About joining the company and president and CEO Ed Levine, Kojan says, “I’ve known and admired Ed for nearly 30 years and it’s a privilege to finally work with him.  What he’s done putting Galaxy together is beyond impressive.  He still believes in doing radio the right way.  Marketing, promotion, research, community service, and a laser-focused emphasis on being local — concepts that have become foreign to so many other broadcasters — are still alive and well at Galaxy.  I’m one very lucky guy!”  Levin states, “Harvey brings a wealth of experience to the position.  He’s a rare combination of science and emotion as he’s extremely adept at radio research but still plays out in a band occasionally!  His family has ties to the area as his wife is from Liverpool.  And he’s a huge sports fan!  This is a tremendous move for ‘TK’ that will continue to keep us out in front of the market for many years to come!”

More RadioInfo Career Moves.  Ohana Broadcasting announces Fred Rico is named director of programming for its Honolulu cluster.  Rico most recently was PD at Sierra H Broadcasting’s oldies KAJM, Camp Verde, Arizona and rhythmic CHR KNRJ, Cordes Lakes, Arizona.  He previously worked in Hawaii from 2000 to 2007…..WJBX, Fort Myers morning host DC moves to Beasley Broadcast Group’s sister rock WRXK “96 K-Rock” for middays as WJBX becomes the FM simulcast of sister sports talk WWCN on Thursday…..Springfield, Massachusetts air personality Shaggy is back on Clear Channel’s WRNX “Kix 100.9” after three years away as part of the AM drive show with Mike Tyler and Kera.  The only difference is now the station is a country outlet.  When Shaggy worked there from 2000 to 2010 it was a triple A station.

Envision’s ‘The Chop Shop’ Plays Host to Metallica’s James Hetfield.  The nationally syndicated guitar-centric weekend rock program welcomed Metallica front man James Hetfield last weekend as Steve Black co-hosted the Envision Radio Networks nationally syndicated program with Hetfield to discuss the recent 2013 Orion Festival in Detroit that the band organized.  Listeners to the program also heard Hetfield discuss the band’s impending trip to China.  Hetfield said, “Art and music…have no borders, so that’s why we do this, and that’s why we want to go to places like China.  Seeing fans in a new country for the first time is always amazing.”  “The Chop Shop” and “Chop Shop Classic” feature weekly updates on bands and tours, web exclusive content, and special guests all while playing 10 songs an hour.  Both versions are two hours in length and feature weekly interviews.

Shinedown Braves Rainy Boston; Rocks for WAAF.  The weather in Boston was miserable for rock WAAF’s private listener concert by the rooftop pool at the Colonnade Hotel but that didn’t stop Shinedown from entertaining the lucky listeners who got to attend the acoustic show featuring lead singer Brent Smith and guitarist Zach Myers.  Both performers took time to pose for pics and chat with fans.  Pictured here are (from l-r): Brent Smith, WAAF personalities Mike Hsu and Mistress Carrie, and Zach Myers.

Monday, June 17, 2013

‘Lite 93.9’ Gone in Chicago; ’93.9MyFM’ Takes Over.  Clear Channel Chicago picks up the pace on WLIT changing it to a hot AC outlet and branding it “93.9 MyFM – More Variety from the 80s ‘til Now” – leaving the soft AC sounds behind.  The new-sound station debuted this morning with Ryan Seacrest introducing it to listeners.  Expect a lineup of personalities to be announced in a few weeks.

Clear Channel Fires Up New Hot AC on KNBQ, Seattle.  The signal – at 102.9 FM – has been a simulcast of sports talk KJR-AM since November of 2011 but became “The New 102.9 NOW” on Friday, June 14.  The station is beginning its life as a hot AC with 10,000 songs in a row commercial free as it begins putting together a talent lineup.  In a statement, Clear Channel Seattle vice president of programming Keith Cunningham says, “We’re excited to offer ‘The New 102.9 NOW’ to our listeners.  It’s the perfect musical complement to ‘KISS’ and KUBE and will soon feature one of the best talent lineups in the country.”  Program director Eric Powers states, “‘The New 102.9 NOW’ fills the need for this programming in the market and is the perfect radio home for artists like Adele, Train, Katy Perry, One Republic, Lady Gaga and more.”

Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines” Rockets to the Top of the Pop Songs Chart.  After only  four weeks on the RadioInfo Pop Songs Chart, the catchy attention-getting title track “Blurred Lines”  from artist Robin Thicke‘s sixth studio album has rocketed from #14 last week to this week’s top position.  The song features performances by artists T.I. and Pharrell and marks what Thicke describes as a more “poppy” sound than most of his previous work.  In addition to being very catchy on its musical merits, the song’s controversial lyrics and racy video have raised eyebrows and generated buzz.  Heavily influenced by soul and R&B artists such as Al Green, Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder,  Robin Thicke, who formerly recorded under the singular name “Thicke,” is the son of actor Alan Thicke.

“How Many Social Media Followers Should I Have?”  That question is one of the more commonly asked of digital radio consultant and TALKERS columnist Chris Miller.  In a column posted today (6/17) Miller answers that question, as well as some of the most frequently asked, including: “We’re on Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Instagram, YouTube, Google+ and Pinterest.  What other hot new sites should we be on?” “How often should we post?  I’m not sure we’re posting enough.” “I have many times more listeners than followers.  Why should I waste time with social media?” “I can sell ads on my own air and on my website.  There’s no way to monetize Facebook and Twitter.  I don’t want to get too involved in it for that reason.”  Check out Chris Miller’s answers to these questions and concerns by clicking here.

Clear Channel’s KIIS, Los Angeles Appoints Beata Czechowski APD and Music Director.  Beata Czechowski begins her new post at Clear Channel CHR ‘Kiss FM’ in Los Angeles on July 8.  She’s worked on the radio and the record label side of the business starting her career with CBS Radio’s WLLD, Tampa “Wild 94.1” and working for Jive Records in the promotions department.  She takes over for current APD and MD Julie Pilat and reports to program director John Ivey who says, “I’ve had some great MDs in my career, but I am exhilarated for this new change at KIIS, Beata is the perfect complement for me given her history and connections with both sides of the industry.  We are so happy to welcome her to the KIIS and Clear Channel family.  She has much to offer the company and I can’t wait to get her started.”

Morning Personality Mike Addams to Retire from WMJX, Boston.  Longtime Boston radio personality Mike Addams will officially retire from Greater Media’s AC ‘MAGIC 106.7’ 19 years on the station.  His last official day on the air will be Friday, June 28.  Addams joined the station back in August of 1994.  Prior to that, he worked at WODS, WZOU, WHDH, WROR and WRKO.  Greater Media Boston VP and market manager Rob Williams states, “It has been a pleasure to work with a radio pro like Mike Addams.  He has had a wonderful career on some of the top stations in America including the last 19 years on ‘Magic 106.7.’  I wish Mike and his family many happy years of retirement.”  Greater Media Boston director of programming Cadillac Jack McCartney says, “From the days at WRKO as the exciting Mike Addams to his recent tenure waking up Boston on ‘Magic 106.7,’ Mike has been the consummate professional and has enjoyed a storied career in our ever-changing business.  I respect him greatly, and wish him all the best.”

Bobby Fester Exits WALK, Long Island.  Weekend and swingman Bobby Fester a.k.a Glenn B. Farrell leaves Aloha Station Trust hot AC WALK, Long Island and says, “I wish nothing but the best for everybody at WALK.  PD Patrick Shea and APD Tommy Conway are two of the greatest guys you could ever meet and work with.  I was very lucky to be a part of their team.  It was a great 13 months and unfortunately it had to come to an end.”  Farrell has done stints at SiriusXM’s Hits-1 Channel as well as ‘103.5 KTU’ in New York City, 106.1 WBLI on Long Island, 103.9 WFAS in Westchester, “KC 101” in Connecticut and “PARTY 105” on Long Island.  Farrell is ready for his next challenge.  If you are looking for a weekender or have a full-time daypart to be filled reach out to him at (954) 732-6666 or via email at gfarrell@gbfpro.com.

More RadioInfo Career Moves.  Karolyn Mulvaney is promoted from her general sales manager position to market manager at SummitMedia’s Greenville, South Carolina cluster that includes urban contemporary WJMZ and CHR WHZT…..Local pastor Jonathan Coppedge-Henley begins a Sunday evening program called “Road Signs” on Clear Channel’s alternative WEND, Charlotte “106.5 The End” airing from 10:00 pm to 12:00 midnight…..Mighty Media Group’s country WEBL, Memphis “95.3 The Rebel” and sister classic country WUMY “Y105.5” have a new program director in Rik McNeil.  He most recently served at Clear Channel’s Las Vegas cluster.

Arbitron’s RADAR June 2013 Radio Network Ratings Released.  Reporting that “nearly 179 million Persons 12 and older, or approximately 68% of this demographic, heard one or more network radio commercials in an average week of the survey period,” Arbitron releases data from 47 radio networks operated by American Urban Radio Networks, Crystal Media Networks, Cumulus Media Networks, Dial Global Inc., Premiere Radio Networks, and United Stations Radio Networks.  Premiere Networks places in the top four rank positions with its Premiere Young Influencers Network (dominant formats being rock and CHR) in the #1 position with a cume of 19,418,000.

Kansas City Website Raises Issues Regarding Radio Ratings and the Law.  By now you’ve probably heard about the reportedly independent website www.listenlonger.com operating in Kansas City that had been seeking out PPM holders in an effort to save its “favorite Kansas City radio station through education about the ratings system.”  The site reports it has been in contact with Arbitron – in fact the ratings company sent a cease and desist letter to the operators and they’ve tweaked their strategy but are not shutting down the site.  Now the site operators say they will no longer ask to be contacted by PPM holders but will continue to keep the site going and it appears the operation is not violating any laws.  For its part, Arbitron has sent a letter to Kansas City subscribers to assure them the May 2013 PPM data has not been tainted that reads, in part: “During the May report period, a third-party website encouraged Kansas City radio listeners to support an unnamed local station, posted general information about ratings methodology and ratings data, and solicited information on PPM panelists.  We want to assure subscribers that the website is not affiliated or endorsed by Arbitron and that Arbitron has taken substantial steps to ensure the integrity of the Kansas City PPM panel and all Arbitron audience estimates for the market…Arbitron monitors social media sites daily, interacts with panelists on a regular basis, and has confidential processes in place to help identify panelists who may have disclosed their participation.  We have also taken special measures in light of the Kansas City website to protect the integrity of in-tab panelists included in the recently-released May 2013 Kansas City data.”  After being contacted by Arbitron, the following (an excerpt) was posted on the site: “Arbitron has demanded we provide the name of anyone who contacted us regarding this issue, and the names of anyone to whom we passed that information along.  ListenLonger.com would like to use this update as written notice to Arbitron that no one has ever contacted us saying they had a PPM except a reporter who posed as a PPM holder in an attempt to surreptitiously gather information…In short, please whatever you do, don’t tell us if you have a PPM.  Really.  We don’t want to know.”  The site operators are fans of an Entercom station in the market as they encourage people to sign up for the “Get My Perks” program Entercom employs and although the site operators say Wilks Broadcasting had questioned the integrity of the May 2013 PPM data as a result, Arbitron ensures subscribers the data was not affected.

Magna Global Releases International Ad Revenue Forecasts for the Rest of ’13 and for 2014; United States Radio to Be Flat.  Looking at the really big picture first, Magna Global predicts global ad spending to be up 3% in 2013 and rise to 6.1% in 2014.  That said, in the United States, those figures are up just 0.4% for ’13 due to the missing Olympics and political ad spending that occurs in even-numbered years.  For 2014 the figure is expected to rise. As for radio, Magna Global predicts 2013 will be flat but for those radio companies also selling digital, there is a ton of opportunity as that category is expected to rise 11.5% and is boosted by the mobile aspect of the category, predicted to go up 61.7%.

WNNT, Richmond Begins Carrying ‘The Country Oldies Show.’  The three-hour, weekly classic country program syndicated by Envision Radio Networks and hosted by Steve Warren is added to the program schedule at Real Media Inc.’s country WNNT, Richmond “River Country.”  The station airs the program every Thursday at 6:00 pm ET.  “The Country Oldies Show” has been in existence since 1994 and, according to Envision, is the longest-running weekly radio program featuring the greatest country hits from the 1950s to the 1980s.  Radio personality Steve Warren has a 50-year pedigree as a host, programmer and radio consultant.

CBS Radio Creates Web Radio Station in Synergy with CBS TV’s “Under the Dome” Series.  The Stephen King-created series “Under the Dome” premiere’s next Monday evening on CBS TV and CBS Radio is creating an internet radio channel on its Radio.com to feature music playlists influenced by the show’s characters, conversations with King, weekly interviews with music supervisor Ann Kline, and an array of commentary surrounding each episode and how the plot is developing week to week.

Clear Channel Moves John Hogan to New York City.  Most of the company’s high-level executives are already stationed in the Big Apple and not the company’s legal headquarters in San Antonio.  Now, Clear Channel Media and Entertainment CEO John Hogan is moving to New York as well.  In a filing with the SEC, the company notes that Hogan is also getting a pay increase to make his base salary $1,125,000 in addition to moving expenses and a housing allowance for the next year and a half.

Friday, June 14, 2013

Pandora Faces Battles with BMI and ASCAP.  The dispute between Pandora and BMI will take place in United States District Court Southern District of New York as the latter is suing Pandora after rate negotiations broke down.  The issue is complex and the court case could result in defining just how digital music services such as Pandora are to be categorized.  Pandora claims it is not unlike a radio station and should be treated as such when it comes to creating a rate structure for fees.  But the complaint filed by BMI contains some interesting points arguing Pandora is not just another radio station.  In fact, Pandora’s ability to serve millions of listeners at a time – each potentially listening to different songs – means it is pushing more product to consumers than a radio station could ever do in the same period of time.  BMI claims, “Pandora does not play one song at a time…by 10:00 am every morning, Pandora has already performed 200 million songs, as compared with the hundreds of songs played by an average radio station per day.”  At the crux of BMI’s argument is that Pandora (and other pure plays) has created “a new market for music performing rights.”  Additionally, BMI calls out Pandora on the acquisition of KXMZ, Rapid City in an effort to qualify for lower rates in accordance with the deals between ASCAP and the Radio Music Licensing Committee (RMLC) and BMI and the RMLC in which stations pay 1.7% of gross revenues from broadcast and new media offerings.  BMI calls the KXMZ deal a “brazen attempt to artificially drive down its license fees…for the purpose of ‘qualifying for the same RMLC license under the same terms as our [Pandora’s] competitors.’”  As for ASCAP, the performance rights organization has not filed suit but has stated publicly that the KXMZ deal is a backdoor attempt to qualify for the RMLC license and the reach of that small station is nothing compared to Pandora’s internet audience.

Cumulus Media to Report CHR, Hot AC and Rhythmic from Corporate in Atlanta.  This move, while seemingly a drastic change in the way the company reports music for its pop music stations, is Cumulus bringing into line the way it does business for CHR, hot AC, rhythmic formats the same way it does for country.  The new policy means vice president of label relations John Kilgo will handle all music recommendations for stations and those, in turn, will be approved via co-chief operating officer John Dickey’s office in Atlanta.  Senior vice president of programming Jan Jeffries is still part of the mix in this effort, according to Cumulus sources.

Final Round of May 2013 PPM Data Released.  Arbitron delivers the last of four rounds of PPM data from the May 2013 survey that includes the 12 markets: Austin, Milwaukee, Indianapolis, Providence, Raleigh, Norfolk, Nashville, Greensboro, West Palm Beach, Jacksonville, Memphis, and Hartford.  You can find those ratings here.  RadioInfo managing editor and West Coast bureau chief Mike Kinosian has his “Ten Takeaways” from this batch of ratings here:

• Austin — KLJA’s fifth successive uptick is a hefty +1.1 to 3.6 and it carries “La Jefa 107.7″ from #16 in April to #13. The Univision Radio regional Mexican operation has precisely doubled its 6+-numbers since the “Holiday” report: 1.8 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 3.6. Meanwhile, Emmis-owned similarly-formatted KLZT (“107.1 – La Z”) is up for the second straight month (5.4 – 5.7 – 6.1) and ranks fourth.
• Indianapolis — For the fifth consecutive month, the market’s top two stations (6+) are country-formatted rivals. With a solid +1.1 to 8.3, Cumulus Media’s WFMS regains the lead. Conversely, following a strong +1.3 March-April showing, WLHK (Emmis’ “Hank”) slips back to second (8.6 – 7.8).
• Providence — After four downward trends in a row dating back to the “Holiday” report (14.9 – 8.4 – 8.1 – 8.0 – 7.7), WWLI explodes by +1.4 to 9.1. As a result, the Cumulus Media AC progresses from #3 to the top spot. “Lite Rock 105″ displaces CHR sibling WPRO-FM, which slips from first to second (8.9 – 8.5).
• Raleigh — The third straight (6+) gain for WRAL (#3) is a +.7 which takes the Capitol Broadcasting adult contemporary facility to an even 8.0, its best 6+-share since 10.9 (“Holiday”). Clear Channel classic rocker WRDU (formerly WRVA) posts its fifth consecutive up trend, and improves from #7 to #6.
• Norfolk — After back-to-back months at 8.6 and 8.9 (6+), Entercom urban AC WVKL returns to double-digits with a 10.2. “R&B 95-7 FM” has now scored double-digits (6+) in nine of the last 15 reports.
• Nashville — On the strength of a hefty +1.1 to 4.9, Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM cracks the top ten, progressing from #11 in April to #10.
• Greensboro — Both of the market’s FM country outlets improve from April. Entercom’s WPAW “The Wolf,” #2 is up seven-tenths to 9.3 – its highest 6+-stat since last November’s 10.1, while Clear Channel’s WTQR “New Country – Q104.1,” #3 gains one-half share to 8.8 – which just so happens to be its best-ever 6+ PPM share.
• Jacksonville — Cox Media Group siblings exchange places at the top with CHR WAPE-FM (7.7, 6+) enjoying a robust +1.1, advancing from second to first. In the meantime, classic hits WJGL – actually up one-tenth to 7.3 – dips from first to second.
• Memphis — For the third straight month, WMFS-FM “ESPN SportsRadio” registers a (6+) gain. This time, it is a significant +1.4 to 4.3, by far, the Entercom-owned station’s best 6+-stat in its PPM history, elevating the station from #13 in April to #8. Meanwhile, after being in the unaccustomed runner-up position for three successive months, Clear Channel urban AC KJMS returns to #1 (+.4 to 10.3), trading places with gospel sibling WHAL (10.7 – 10.1).
• Hartford — Albeit that it came down to the lowest-ranked of the 48 PPM markets, WZMX “Hot 93.7″ can nonetheless claim bragging rights for loftiest (6+) April-May improvement. The CBS Radio rhythmic CHR gains a whopping 2.1 shares (6.1 – 8.2) and leapfrogs from #8 in April to #3.

RadioInfo Career Moves.  Three Eagles Communications names Joel Burke corporate programming consultant for its 47 radio stations.  Burke is, and will remain, program director for First Dallas Media’s Christian KCBI, Dallas.  Prior to joining KCBI, Burke programmed Clear Channel’s country KASE and KVET in Austin…..Weekend personality Adam moves up to evenings at Journal Broadcast Group’s rock KQXR, Boise “100.3 The X.” He takes over for Britt Reid who moves to the cluster’s traffic department…..Roger McCoy is leaving Media One Holdings‘ country WYBL, Ashtabula, Ohio “98.3 The Bull” where he is program director and PM drive host to join Clear Channel‘s WKSF, Asheville, North Carolina “99.9 Kiss Country” as assistant program director, music director and afternoon host.

The 2013 Radio Show to Feature Two-Pronged Program Agenda.  The National Association of Broadcasters and the Radio Advertising Bureau announce the 2013 Radio Show – scheduled for September 18-20 in Orlando – will feature two new conference tracks, the Programming Masters Series and Sales Consultants’ Corner, both on Friday, September 20.  According to a release from the organizations, “The power tracks, which will run concurrently on Friday morning, are designed to provide radio programming and sales professionals a comprehensive training opportunity in a consolidated format.  Attendees will learn strategies and best practices that can be immediately employed to increase station revenue and enhance programming content.”  The fast-paced Programming Masters Series will address how today’s multi-platform media environment impacts radio programmers as they juggle the demands of programming multiple stations and cultivating talent.  Sessions include: “The Art of Story Telling;” “The Next Gen Programmer,” featuring tips from college radio on how mainstream radio can connect with diverse audiences; and “What’s Working at Work,” featuring unique research on media consumption.  Panelists include Evan Harrison, executive vice president, content and entertainment, Univision Radio; Laurie Cantillo, program director, WTOP; Buzz Knight, vice president, program development, Greater Media; and Steve Reynolds, The Reynolds Group.  During the four-hour Sales Consultants’ Corner, radio’s top sales trainers and consultants will discuss effective strategies for training salespeople, prospecting new leads and growing revenue.  Sessions include “The Seven Steps for Selling Success,” “Getting the Appointment” and “Addressing Objections and Closing.” Additionally, RAB will provide resources and tools stations can use to support the sales process.  Panelists include Paul Weyland, president, Paul Weyland Communication Strategies; Marijane Milton, international director of revenue innovation and training, MultiBrand Media International; Michael Guld, president, The Guld Resource Group and author of “The Million Dollar Media Rep;” and Susan Novicki, president, Morrison and Abraham.

Steve Harvey Show Preps “Two-Week Celebrity Takeover.”  Premiere Networks nationally syndicated urban morning drive superstar Steve Harvey is taking some time off and is bringing in the celebrity big guns beginning Monday, June 17.  Guest hosts from the world of music, TV and movies will sit in alongside Harvey’s cast that includes Shirley Strawberry, Nephew Tommy and Carla Ferrell.  The lineup of hosts includes: superstar Tyler Perry for a back-to-back two-day stint June 25th – June 26th, beloved actors Morris Chestnut and Shemar Moore, the brilliant comedic talents of Kevin Hart, Cedric The Entertainer, and Sheryl Underwood, award-winning artist Charlie Wilson, honoring him and fans with a special edition of “The Steve Harvey Morning Show” celebrating Charlie Wilson Day, NFL champion Deion Sanders, and R&B hitmaker Jaheim.