Tag: July 2023

Industry News

Round Four of July PPMs Released

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

imThe fourth and final round of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s July 2023 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. 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 Milwaukee, iHeartMedia news/talk WISN dips one-tenth to finish with a 9.7 share but remains locked in the #1 rank, while Good Karma Brands crosstown news/talk WTMJ falls 1.6 shares to finish the survey with a 7.9 share that takes the station from #2 to #4. In Providence, Cumulus Media news/talk WPRO-AM/WEAN-FM rises three-tenths for a 6.2 share finish and rises to the #6 rank, while iHeartMedia crosstown news/talk WHJJ loses three-tenths to finish with an 0.2 share good for the #18 rank.  In West Palm Beach, iHeartMedia talk outlet WZZR-FM adds a half share for a 1.9 share finish that lifts it to the #12 rank, while Hubbard Broadcasting news/talk WFTL dips three-tenths for a 1.3 share finish that leaves it ranked #13. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets here.

Ratings Takeaways

July 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

imJuly 2023 PPM Data – Information for the July 2023 survey period has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford.

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+).

AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media Group’s KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 4.4 – 4.0, -.4, sixth to tenth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas’ KUT 4.4 – 5.4, +1.0, sixth to fifth

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media Group adult hits KBPA, seventh month in succession, 11.4 – 10.4, -1.0

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: regional Mexican KLZT (+1.1)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: adult hits KBPA (-1.0) 

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 8.2 – 7.9, -.3, repeats in third-place

News: Capitol Broadcasting-owned WRAL-HD3 “WRAL News+” .3 – .1, -.2, #15 to #16

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” 2.4 – 1.8, -.6, #9 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 8.3 – 9.9, +1.6, second to first

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WUNC, first month, 8.3 – 9.9, +1.6

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: urban contemporary WQOK (+1.8)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: urban AC WFXC (-1.4)

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Urban One’s WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 6.8 – 5.7, -1.1, fourth to sixth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” 3.2 – 2.2, -1.0, #14 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting-owned WFYI 5.3 – 6.6, +1.3, seventh to third

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media adult hits WJJK, second successive month, 8.0 – 8.4, +.4

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: public radio news/talk WFYI (+1.3)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WYXB (-1.2)

MILWAUKEE

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” 9.8 – 9.7, -.1, #1

Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Brewers) 9.5 – 7.9, -1.6, second to fourth  

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” 1.1 – 1.0, -.1, flat at #17

Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” .6 – .8, +.2, #19 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 2.3 – 2.5, +.2, #14 to #13

Wisconsin Educational Communications Board’s WHAD 1.3 – 1.5, +.2, steady at #16

Number One 6+: news/talk WISN, fourth straight month, 9.8 – 9.7, -.1

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WLDB and classic hits-oldies WRXS (+.8)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: news/talk WTMJ (-1.6)

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 5.2 – 5.6, +.4, locked in sixth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” 4.7 – 4.3, -.4, seventh to ninth    

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” flat at 1.3, #19 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 2.8 – 3.4, +.6, #14 to #13

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult contemporary WJXA, sixth month in succession, 11.8 – 11.4, -.4

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: CHR WRVW (+1.6)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: adult hits WCJK (-1.5)

PROVIDENCE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 5.9 – 6.2, +.3, seventh to sixth

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” .5 – .2, -.3, #17 to #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” 2.8 – 2.5, -.3, repeats in eighth-place

Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” 2.2 – 2.1, -.1, #12 to #10

Cumulus Media’s WPRV “790 The Score” flat at .1, #19 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 2.4 – 1.9, -.5, #9 to #11

Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN 1.6 – 1.5, -.1, remains at #14

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI, first month, 8.9 – 9.6, +.7

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WWLI (+.7)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WWBB (-1.0)

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” 3.7 – 3.9, +.2, locked at #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group-owned WVSP “Sports Radio 94.1 ESPN” flat at 2.5, #12 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, seventh straight month, 10.3 – 10.0, -.3

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: hot AC WPTE (+.5)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WTWV (-.5)

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 6.3 – 6.1, -.2, fifth to sixth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT 3.7 – 3.6, -.1, repeats in tenth-place

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WJGL, third month in a row, 10.0 – 9.9, -.1

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WEJZ (+.9)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary WJBT (-1.0)

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” 1.4 – 1.9, +.5, #13 to #12

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” 1.6 -1.3, -.3, #12 to #13

WZZR cluster-mate WJNO “News Radio 1290” .9 – 1.1, +.2, #16 to #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida”.4 – .2, -.2, locked at #18

iHeartMedia-owned WBZT “Sports Radio 1230 The Gambler” unchanged at .2, #19 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN 3.2 – 2.8, -.4, sixth to eighth

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting classic hits-oldies WEAT, first month, 8.2 – 10.2, +2.0

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WEAT (+2.0)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: hot AC WRMF (-.8)

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 4.2 – 3.9, -.3, repeats in eighth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 1.6 – 2.3, +.7, #12 to #11

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 1.0 – 1.4, +.4, steady at #13

Number One 6+: Audacy adult hits WSMW, seventh month in a row, 14.0 – 12.3, -1.7

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: country WTQR (+1.6)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: adult hits WSMW (-1.7)*

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

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 2.1 – 2.5, +.4, tenth to eighth

Starnes Media Group-owned KWAM “News Talk Memphis The Mighty 990” unchanged at .2, #17 to #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” 2.4 – 2.5, +.1, ninth to eighth

WFMS’ internet stream .2 – .4, +.2, #17 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications-owned WKNO 1.5 – 1.4, -.1, #13 to #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC KJMS, fifth straight month, 12.2 – 13.7, +1.5

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: country WLFP (+4.0)**

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: classic rock KWNW (-1.1)

**Represents the largest June 2023 – July 2023 increase (6+) of any station from all 48 PPM-markets

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” 5.5 – 4.7, -.8, sixth to seventh

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” 1.5 – 1.6, +.1, #15 to #14

WTIC-AM’s internet stream .4 – .8, +.4, #19 to #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” flat at 1.6, repeats at #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR 3.5 – 3.7, +.2, ninth to eighth

New England Public Media’s WFCR .5 – .6, +.1, stays at #18

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 42nd month in a row, 9.9 – 9.6, -.3

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: alternative WMRQ (+.6)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: Spanish tropical WMRQ-HD2 (-1.2)

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

Ratings Takeaways

July 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Three

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

imJuly 2023 PPM Data – Information for the July 2023 ratings period has been released for Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Orlando, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Columbus.

Nielsen Audio’s 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+).

PORTLAND

News/Talk: Alpha Media’s KXL “FM 101 News” 5.6 – 5.8, +.2, repeats in fourth-place

iHeartMedia-owned KEX “News Radio 1190” steady at 1.4, #21 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Oregon Public Broadcasting’s KOPB 5.9 – 6.2, +.3, locked in third-place

KOPB’s internet stream 1.7 – 1.4, -.3, continues at #20

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KLTH, second month in a row, 9.1 – 9.5, +.4

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: classical KQAC (+.8)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: country KWJJ (-1.0)

CHARLOTTE

News/Talk: Urban One-owned WBT AM & WBT-FM “Charlotte’s News Talk” 4.8 – 6.1, +1.3, seventh to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One’s WFNZ-FM “Sports Radio 92.7” 1.7 – 1.9, +.2, ensconced at #16

Public Radio News/Talk: University Radio Foundation’s WFAE 3.8 – 3.6, -.2, repeats at #11

Number One 6+: Urban One urban-rhythmic oldies WOSF, third straight month, 7.6 – 8.0, +.4

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: news/talk WBT AM & WBT-FM (+1.3)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WKQC (-1.3)

SAN ANTONIO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WOAI “News Radio 1200” 2.8 – 2.6, -.2, #14 to #15

Alpha Media-owned KTSA “Stay Connected” 2.4 – 2.5, +.1, #17 to #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Texas Public Radio’s KSTX 1.8 – 1.7, -.1, repeats at #19

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies KONO-FM, seventh consecutive month, 8.9 – 9.1, +.2

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: rhythmic hot AC KVBH (+.7)

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

SACRAMENTO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM “News 1530 AM & 93.1 FM” 9.6 – 12.6, +3.0, second to first

KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM cluster-mate KSTE-AM “Talk 650” 4.6 – 3.7, -.9, sixth to seventh

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Capital Public Radio-owned KXJZ 3.1 – 2.1, -1.0, #12 to #15

Number One 6+: news/talk KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM, first month, 9.6 – 12.6, +3.0

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: news/talk KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM (+3.0)*

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: public radio news/talk KXJZ (-1.0)

*Represents a tie for the largest June 2023 – July 2023 increase (6+) of any station from the 36 PPM-markets analyzed thus far

PITTSBURGH

News/Talk: Audacy’s KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020 AM” 3.3 – 3.6, +.3, #12 to #10

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan All Sports All The Time” (Pirates) 7.1 – 6.7, -.4, third to fourth

Public Radio News/Talk: Pittsburgh Community Broadcasting’s WESA 4.3 – 4.6, +.3, eighth to sixth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWSW, eighth month in a row, 11.2 – 12.8, +1.6

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WWSW (+1.6)

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

SALT LAKE CITY

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM “Talk Radio” 5.6 – 4.6, -1.0, third to fourth

Bonneville-owned KSL “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” 4.1 – 4.3, +.2, eighth to sixth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Utah’s KUER 1.8 – 2.1, +.3, #21 to #20

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KSFI, ninth straight month, 11.0 – 11.6, +.6

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies KRSP (+1.2)

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

LAS VEGAS

News/Talk: Audacy-owned KMXB-HD3 “101.5 K-Dawn The Talk Of Las Vegas” unchanged at 2.3, #17 to #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Nevada Public Radio’s KNPR 1.9 – 1.8, -.1, #19 to #18

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KSNE, first month, 6.4 – 8.1, +1.7

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KSNE (+1.7)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KISF (-1.9)**

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

ORLANDO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKS “Real Radio 104.1” 4.6 – 4.0, -.6, anchored in tenth-place

Cox Media Group-owned WDBO “Orlando’s News Talk” flat at 3.9, remains at #11

WTKS’ cluster-mate WFLF “Orlando News Radio” 1.3 – 1.6, +.3, #19 to #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WYGM “96.9 The Game” unchanged at 1.3, carries on at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Community Connections-owned WMFE steady at 2.4, #16 to #14

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMGF, second consecutive month, 8.7 – 8.5, -.2

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: urban AC WCFB (+1.3)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: country WWKA (-1.9)**

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

CINCINNATI

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WLW “700 Cincinnati’s News Radio” (Reds) 13.0 – 16.0, +3.0, #1

WLW’s cluster-mate WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station” 4.5 – 4.2, -.3, sixth to seventh

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Cincinnati Public Radio’s WVXU 4.2 – 4.1, -.1, seventh to eighth

Number One 6+: news/talk WLW, 18th consecutive month, 13.0 – 16.0, +3.0

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: news/talk WLW (+3.0)*

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WGRR (-1.8)

*Represents a tie for the largest June 2023 – July 2023 increase (6+) of any station from the 36 PPM-markets analyzed thus far

CLEVELAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTAM “News Radio 1100” (Guardians) 5.8 – 5.1, -.7, seventh to eighth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” 2.9 – 3.1, +.2, remains at #12

WKRK’s internet stream .3 – .4, +.1, #21 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Kent State University-owned WKSU 5.7 – 4.9, -.8, eighth to ninth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WMJI, ninth month in a row, 10.2 – 10.3, +.1

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: urban AC WZAK (+1.2)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: CHR WAKS (-.9)

KANSAS CITY

News/Talk: Audacy-owned KMBZ-FM “98.1 FM News, Traffic, Weather” 4.3 – 4.9, +.6, seventh to fifth

KMBZ-FM cluster-mate KMBZ-AM “Talk 980 AM” 1.4 – 1.2, -.2, #19 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s KCSP “Sports Radio 610 Our Teams, Our Town” (Royals) 2.7 – 2.6, -.1, #15 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KCUR 3.8 – 3.4, -.4, #10 to #12

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic rock KCFX, second successive month, 10.5 – 10.3, -.2

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: country KFKF (+1.1)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: country WDAF (-1.3)

COLUMBUS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WTVN “News Radio 610” 6.2 – 6.9, +.7, fourth to third   

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Tegna-owned WBNS-FM “97.1 FM The Fan” steady at 4.9, seventh to sixth

Public Radio News/Talk: Ohio State University’s WOSU unchanged at 4.5, ninth to eighth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia country WCOL, ninth straight month, 11.0 – 10.9, -.1

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: adult hits WODC (+1.1)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: rock WRKZ and classic rock WXZX (-.6)

Up next: July 2023 overviews for Austin; Raleigh; Indianapolis; Milwaukee; Nashville; Providence; Norfolk; Jacksonville; West Palm Beach; Greensboro; Memphis; and Hartford.

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

Industry News

Round Two of July PPMs Released

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

imThe second of two rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s July 2023 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including Washington, Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis. 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 Washington, DC, Hubbard Broadcasting’s all-news WTOP leaps nine-tenths for a 9.1 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) finish and remains ranked #2, while Cumulus Media news/talk WMAL-FM loses one-tenth to finish with a 3.5 share good for the #9 rank. In Boston, iHeartMedia news/talk WRKO sheds seven-tenths to wrap the survey with a 3.4 share and falls to the #13 rank, while sister all-news WBZ-AM dips three-tenths for a 4.5 share finish and remains ranked #7. In Seattle, Bonneville news/talk KIRO-FM rises six-tenths to wrap the survey with a 4.9 share that lifts it to the #5 rank, while Lotus Communications’ crosstown news/talk is up three-tenths for a 1.9 share and the #19 rank. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets here.

Ratings Takeaways

July 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Two

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

imJuly 2023 PPM Data – Information for the July 2023 sweep has been released for Washington, Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis.

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+).

WASHINGTON, DC

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” 3.6 – 3.5, -.1, repeats in ninth-place

News: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” 8.2 – 9.1, +.9, ensconced in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” (Nationals) flat at 2.4, #15 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: American University-owned WAMU 11.0 – 11.6, +.6, #1

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WAMU, 20th month in succession, 11.0 – 11.6, +.6

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

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

BOSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRKO “AM 680 The Voice Of Boston” 4.1 – 3.4, -.7, #10 to #13

News – Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” 4.8 – 4.5, -.3, continues in seventh-place

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group’s WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” 5.5 – 4.9, -.6, third to fifth

Audacy-owned WEEI-FM “93.7 Boston’s Sports Station” (Red Sox) 3.4 – 3.5, +.1 #13 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: Boston University’s WBUR 5.7 – 6.1, +.4, steady in the runner-up slot

WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 4.0 – 3.8, -.2, anchored at #11

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies WROR, second month in succession, 6.0 – 6.2, +.2

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: adult hits WBGB (+.9)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: country WKLB (-1.0)

MIAMI

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board-owned WLRN 3.7 – 3.6, -.1, repeats in tenth-place

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group urban AC WHQT, fifth straight month, 8.9 – 8.0, -.9 and co-owned adult contemporary WFEZ, first month, 7.9 – 8.0, +.1

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: Spanish contemporary WAMR (+.9)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: urban AC WHQT (-.9)

SEATTLE

News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-FM “97.3 FM” 4.3 – 4.9, +.6, ninth to fifth

Lotus Communications’ KVI “Talk Radio 570” 1.6 – 1.9, +.3, #22 to #19

News: Lotus Communications-owned KNWN-AM & KNWN-FM “Northwest News Radio” 2.6 – 2.3, -.3, #16 to #17

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KIRO-AM “710 AM ESPN Seattle” (Mariners) 4.6 – 4.0, -.6, seventh to ninth

Public Radio News/Talk: Northwest Public Radio-owned KUOW 5.6 – 4.5, -1.1, fourth to seventh

Number One 6+: Audacy country KKWF, second straight month, 7.4 – 7.7, +.3

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KSWD (+.9)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: public radio news/talk KUOW (-1.1) 

DETROIT

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760 AM” 1.9 – 2.1, +.2, remains at #17

News: Audacy-owned WWJ News Radio 950” 3.5 – 3.9, +.4, steady at #10

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (Tigers) 7.0 – 6.7, -.3, continues in third-place

WXYT-FM’s internet stream 1.7 – 1.8, +.1, #20 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Michigan-owned WUOM 1.8 – 1.7, -.1, #18 to #19

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia CHR WKQI, second successive month, 8.1 – 9.6, +1.5

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: CHR WKQI (+1.5)*

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: classic rock WCSX (-.9)

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

PHOENIX

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” 2.4 – 2.9, +.5, #17 to #13

Bonneville-owned KTAR-FM “News 92.3 FM” 2.4 – 2.7, +.3, #17 to #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KMVP-FM “98.7 Arizona’s Sports Station” (Arizona Diamondbacks) 2.1 – 2.0, -.1, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Maricopa County Community College-owned KJZZ 6.3 – 6.5, +.2, third to second

Number One 6+: Hubbard classic rock KSLX, second consecutive month, 6.8 – 7.8, +1.0

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies KAZG (+1.2)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KLNZ (-1.2)

MINNEAPOLIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s WCCO “News Talk 830” (Minnesota Twins) 3.2 – 3.5, +.3, remains at #13

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned KTMY “My Talk 107.1” steady at 2.3, continues at #16

iHeartMedia’s KTLK-AM “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” 1.4 – 1.3, -.1, #20 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFXN “FM 100.3 K-Fan” 4.3 – 3.8, -.5, #10 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: Minnesota Public Radio’s KNOW 5.9 – 6.7, +.8, sixth to fourth

Number One 6+: Northwestern Media contemporary Christian KTIS-FM, fourth consecutive month, 10.3 – 11.6, +1.3

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: contemporary Christian KTIS-FM (+1.3)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: country KEEY (-.9)

SAN DIEGO 

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOGO “News Radio 600” 4.5 – 4.6, +.1, repeats in eighth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KWFN “97.3 The Fan” (Padres), 5.4 – 5.0, -.4, stays in fifth-place

Public Radio News/Talk: San Diego State University’s KPBS 6.2 – 5.2, -1.0, second to fourth

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KXSN, sixth successive month, unchanged at 7.1

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: rhythmic hot AC XHRM (+1.3)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KLNV (-1.3)

TAMPA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” 4.9 – 5.2, +.3, repeats in sixth-place

iHeartMedia-owned WFLA “News Radio 970” 3.1 – 4.1, +1.0, #13 to #10

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of South Florida’s WUSF 2.6 – 2.7, +.1, #17 to #15

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WDUV, 24th month in a row, 8.8 – 8.1, -.7

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: news/talk WFLA (+1.0)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WDUV and sports talk WDAE (-.7)

DENVER

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOA “News Radio 850” (Colorado Rockies) 3.2 – 2.8, -.4, #14 to #16

KOA cluster-mate KDFD “Freedom 93.7” 1.6 – 1.9, +.3, #22 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KKFN “104.3 The Fan” 3.5 – 2.7, -.8, #10 to #17

KSE Radio Ventures’ KKSE-FM “Altitude Sports Radio 92.5” 2.4 – 1.8, -.6, #18 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Colorado Public Radio-owned KCFR 3.4 – 3.7, +.3, steady at #11

Number One 6+: Audacy classic rock KQMT, first month, 5.5 – 6.2, +.7 and KSE Radio Ventures’ classic hits-oldies KXKL, first month, 6.4 – 6.2, -.2

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: contemporary Christian KLDV (+1.3)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: classical KVOD (-1.2)

BALTIMORE

News/Talk: Hearst Television’s WBAL “News Radio 1090 AM & 101.5 FM” (Orioles) 3.2 – 3.5, +.3, remains at #12

WCBM Maryland-owned WCBM “Talk Radio AM 680” 1.6 – 1.2, -.4, #17 to #19

News: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” 1.0 – 1.1, +.1, stays at #20

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJZ-FM “Baltimore Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” 3.7 – 3.8, +.1, repeats in tenth-place

Public Radio News/Talk: Your Public Radio Corporation-owned WYPR 3.5 – 4.3, +.8, #11 to #8

Number One 6+: Urban One urban contemporary WERQ, first month, 5.5 – 7.0, +1.5

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: urban contemporary WERQ (+1.5)*

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: country WPOC (-1.9)**

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

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

ST. LOUIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s KMOX “The Voice Of St. Louis” (Cardinals) 5.8 – 5.5, -.3, seventh to eighth

KMOX cluster-mate KFTK “Talk 97.1 FM” 2.0 – 1.9, -.1, #16 to #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WXOS “101 ESPN” 2.2 – 1.7, -.5, #15 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KWMU 3.7 – 3.9, +.2, remains at #12

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting adult hits WARH, seventh month in a row, 10.0 – 11.4, +1.4

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: adult hits WARH (+1.4)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: sports talk WXOS (-.5)

Up next: July 2023 overviews for Portland; Charlotte; San Antonio; Sacramento; Pittsburgh; Salt Lake City; Las Vegas; Orlando; Cincinnati; Cleveland; Kansas City; and Columbus. 

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Ratings Takeaways

July 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

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.