Tag: WKXW-FM

Ratings Takeaways

February 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

February 2023 PPM Data – Information for the February 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 February 2023 sweep covered February 2 – March 1.

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 January 2023 – February 2023 (6+). 

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” flat at 3.9, ninth to tenth

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” steady at 1.7, #19 to #18

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” locked at 4.6, remains in seventh-place

Co-owned WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 2.0 – 2.1, +.1, #17 to #16

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets) 3.3 – 2.6, -.7, repeats at #12

WFAN’s internet stream 2.0 – 1.4, -.6, #17 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 3.8 – 4.0, +.2, tenth to ninth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, fourth month in a row, 6.5 – 7.0, +.5

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM (+1.0)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: sports talk WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM (-.7) 

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” steady at 4.1, sixth to fifth

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 2.8 – 2.9, +.1, #9 to #12

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.3 – 2.7, +.4, #16 to #14

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST, eighth month in succession, 6.8 – 5.5, -1.3

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: urban contemporary KRRL (+1.1)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KOST (-1.3)

CHICAGO

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

News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” 4.5 – 4.8, +.3, anchored in fourth-place

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ 3.9 – 3.7, -.2, eighth to seventh  

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT, fifth straight month, 7.3 – 8.0, +.7

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WLIT (+.7)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: CHR WKSC (-1.6)*

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

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.9 – 6.0, -.9, second to third

Sports Talk: Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” (Golden State Warriors) 2.7 – 2.3, -.4, #11 to #14

Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” 3.9 – 2.3, -1.6, #7 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED 6.1 – 4.6, -1.5, repeats in fourth-place

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, fourth successive month, 8.1 – 7.9, -.2

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: classical KDFC and alternative KITS (+.7)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: sports talk KNBR (-1.6)*

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

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 3.4 – 2.6, -.8, #10 to #16

News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” 2.5 – 2.3, -.2, #17 to #20

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” (Stars) 6.2 – 5.6, -.6, #1

Audacy’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” 3.5 – 2.9, -.6, #9 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting-owned KERA 3.1 – 3.0, -.1, #14 to #13

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media sports talk KTCK, second straight month, 6.2 – 5.6, -.6

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: urban contemporary KKDA-FM (+.6)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: news/talk WBAP (-.8)

HOUSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” flat at 3.8, stays at #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston’s KUHF steady at 3.1, repeats at #13

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, 24th consecutive month, 9.6 – 8.0, -1.6

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: classic rock KGLK (+.8)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KODA (-1.6)*

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

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 6.3 – 7.2, +.9, fourth to third

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Hawks) 2.4 – 2.3, -.1, #14 to #18

Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “The Fan” 1.7 – 1.6, -.1, #18 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE 3.8 – 3.6, -.2, ninth to tenth

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, second successive month, 8.3 – 8.1, -.2

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: classic rock WNNX (+1.2)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: contemporary Christian WFSH (1.2)

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 5.8 – 5.9, +.1, fifth to fourth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” 6.9 – 5.9, -1.0, second to fourth

WIP’s internet stream 1.6 – 1.8, +.2, repeats at #19

Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” (76ers and Flyers) 1.6 – 1.7, +.1, #19 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 5.0 – 4.8, -.2, seventh to eighth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC WDAS-FM, first month, 6.6 – 6.7, +.1

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WOGL (+.8)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: sports talk WIP (-1.0)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 2.2 – 1.9, -.3, continues at #16

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 4.4 – 4.2, -.2, seventh to sixth

Cluster-mate WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 3.6 – 3.3, -.3, eighth to tenth

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets) 5.1 – 4.2, -.9, fourth to sixth

Good Karma Brands’ WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Knicks, Rangers, Islanders) flat at 1.6, #17 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic rock WAXQ, first month, 5.9 – 6.1, +.2

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: CHR WBLI (+1.6)**

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: sports talk WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM (-.9)

**Represents the largest January 2023 – February 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, steady at .4, continues at #19

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, 15th consecutive month, 6.8 – 7.1, +.3

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: regional Mexican KSCA (+1.2)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: Spanish adult hits KLYY (-1.0)

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.3 – 1.6, +.3, repeats at #19

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 7.4 – 6.8, -.6, locked in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” 4.3 – 2.7, -1.6, #7 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, ninth consecutive month 8.5 – 7.6, -.9

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: 1980s hits KOSF (+1.5)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: sports talk KNBR (-1.6)*

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

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 7.1 – 6.3, -.8 remains in the runner-up slot

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 1.9 – 2.2, +.3, #14 to #12

Co-owned WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 1.1 – 1.5, +.4, #20 to #18

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets) 3.9 – 3.1, -.8, seventh to ninth

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Knicks, Rangers, Islanders) 1.6 – 1.3, -.3, #18 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WMGQ, second consecutive month, 7.4 – 6.6, -.8

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: Spanish tropical WSKQ (+.8)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WMGQ; news/talk WKXW; and sports talk WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM (-.8)

Up next: February 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.

Features

January 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Barry Farber - usedJanuary 2023 PPM Data – Information for the January 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 January 2023 sweep covered January 5 – February 1.

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 “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 (6+).

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 3.1 – 3.9, +.8, tenth to ninth

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 1.1 – 1.7, +.6, #23 to #19

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” flat at 4.6, fifth to seventh and co-owned WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” steady at 2.0, remains at #17

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets and NY Giants) 3.1 – 3.3, +.2, #10 to #12 and WFAN’s internet stream 1.4 – 2.0, +.6, #21 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 2.8 – 3.8, +1.0, #12 to #10

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, third month in a row, 10.4 – 6.5, -3.9

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM (+1.5)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLTW (-3.9)

 LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” 4.4 – 4.1, -.3, third to sixth

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 2.5 – 2.8, +.3, #12 to #9

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.0 – 2.3, +.3, #19 to #16

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST, seventh month in succession, 13.1 – 6.8, -6.3

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: smooth AC KTWV (+1.3)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KOST (-6.3)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” (Blackhawks) 2.8 – 3.4, +.6, #12 to #9

News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” (Bears) 4.8 – 4.5, -.3, continues in fourth-place

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WSCR “670 The Score” (Bulls) 1.7 – 1.9, +.2, #20 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ 3.4 – 3.9, +.5, sixth to eighth  

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT, fourth straight month, 14.8 – 7.3, -7.5

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: triple A WXRT (+3.0)*

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLIT (-7.5)

*Represents the largest “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023  increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” flat at 1.7, #18 to #20

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.7 – 6.9, +.2, anchored in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (49ers) 3.3 – 3.9, +.6, eighth to seventh

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” (Golden State Warriors) 1.9 – 2.7, +.8, #16 to #11

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED 5.9 – 6.1, +.2, third to fourth

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, third successive month, 15.5 – 8.1, -7.4

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KISQ (+2.1)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KOIT-FM (-7.4)

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 3.7 – 3.4, -.3, eighth to tenth

News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” (Cowboys) 2.2 – 2.5, +.3, #20 to #17

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” (Stars) 3.8 – 6.2, +2.4, sixth to first

Audacy’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Cowboys) 3.7 – 3.5, -.2, eighth to ninth

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting-owned KERA 2.5 – 3.1, +.6, #16 to #14

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media sports talk KTCK, first month, 3.8 – 6.2, +2.4

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: sports talk KTCK (+2.4)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KDGE (-5.2)

HOUSTON

 News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” 3.3 – 3.8, +.5, #12 to #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy KILT-AM “Sports Radio 610” 1.7 – 1.9, +.2, #21 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston’s KUHF 2.4 – 3.1, +.7, #18 to #13

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, 23rd consecutive month, 14.7 – 9.6, -5.1

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: classic rock KGLK (+1.0)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KODA (-5.1)

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 4.4 – 6.3, +1.9, seventh to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Hawks and Falcons) 2.2 – 2.4, +.2, #16 to #14

Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “The Fan” 1.4 – 1.7, +.3, #20 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE 3.0 – 3.8, +.8, tenth to ninth

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, first month, 8.0 – 8.3, +.3

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: news/talk WSB-AM & WSBB (+1.9)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: contemporary Christian WFSH (-2.8)

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 6.2 – 5.8, -.4, third to fifth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Eagles) 5.9 – 6.9, +1.0, fifth to second and WIP’s internet stream 1.2 – 1.6, +.4 #20 to #19

Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” (76ers and Flyers) 1.3 – 1.6, +.3, flat at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 3.6 – 5.0, +1.4, continues in seventh-place

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic rock WMGK, first month, 6.0 – 7.3, +1.3

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WOGL (+1.9)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WBEB (-11.0)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 1.1 – 2.2, +1.1, #21 to #16

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 3.8 – 4.4, +.6, repeats in seventh-place and cluster-mate WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 3.0 – 3.6, +.6, tenth to eighth

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets and NY Giants) 4.8 – 5.1, +.3, sixth to fourth and WFAN’s internet stream flat at 1.6, #16 to #17

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Knicks, Jets, Rangers, Islanders) 1.4 – 1.6, +.2, #19 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia CHR WHTZ, first month, 5.8 – 6.6, +.8

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: rhythmic CHR WKTU (+1.2)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: hot AC WALK-FM (-5.9)

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, flat at .4, #18 to #19

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, 14th consecutive month, 7.6 – 6.8, -.8

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: regional Mexican KRQB (+1.4)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: rhythmic CHR KGGI (-.9)

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.1 – 1.3, +.2, #22 to #19

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 7.0 – 7.4, +.4, anchored in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (49ers ) 2.9 – 4.3, +1.4, eighth to seventh

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” steady at 1.3, #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, eighth consecutive month 22.7 – 8.5, -14.2

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KISQ (+2.8)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KOIT-FM (-14.2)**

**Represents the largest “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023  decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

MIDDLESEX-SOMERSET-UNION

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 6.2 – 7.1, +.9 fourth to second

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 1.7 – 1.9, +.2, repeats at #14 and co-owned WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 1.2 – 1.1, -.1, #18 to #20

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets and NY Giants) 3.0 – 3.9, +.9, ninth to seventh

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Knicks, Jets, Rangers, Islanders) 1.1 – 1.6, +.5, #20 to #18

WFAN’s internet stream .7 – 1.1, +.4, #22 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WMGQ, first month, 10.9 – 7.4, -3.5

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM (+1.2)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLTW (-5.1)

Up next: January 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.

Front Page News Industry News

Friday, September 16, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

NOW POSTED: This Weekend’s Installment of “The Michael Harrison Wrap: An Overview of the National Conversation.” The latest installment of the one-hour, weekend special, “The Michael Harrison Wrap,” that looks back each week at the hottest topics discussed in American talk media per the research of TALKERS, is now posted. This new episode titled “Turbulence” looks back at this past week of 9/12 to 9/16. The program features guests (in order of appearance): Kevin Casey, executive editor, TALKERS; Holland Cooke, media consultant; Lynn Woolley, talk show host, KJCE, Austin; Dom Giordano, talk show host, WPHT, Philadelphia; and Graham Mack, broadcaster/journalist, London. The show airs weekends (Friday evenings to Sunday nights) on almost 100 broadcast signals and networks across the U.S. and U.K as well as having developed a significant international following as a podcast. To listen to this week’s episode, please click here. To view the latest TALKERS topic research, please click here. “The Michael Harrison Wrap” is available in syndication via Talk Media Network to stations across America on a market exclusive basis. For affiliation information, please click here or call 616-884-8616.

New Jersey Child Psychologist Sues Bill Spadea and Townsquare Media for Defamation and More. In a civil suit filed in New Jersey Superior Court, psychologist Steven Tobias is suing WKXW-FM,Trenton “New Jersey 101.5” morning drive talk host Bill Spadea, the station, and Townsquare Media for defamation, business disparagement, and more. In the complaint Tobias says that he’d appeared on “New Jersey 101.5” numerous times over the years as an expert guest and, when the pandemic began, he appeared a number of times to offer advice on how to assist children struggling with wearing masks as well as with returning to school after remote learning. Tobias says he agreed to appear on Spadea’s program on September 21, 2021 after Spadea’s producer assured him he would not be pressured into taking a stand on whether children should wear masks and that his appearance would not be politicized. Tobias claims that after his appearance, Spadea launched a “vicious attack on him personally and professionally.” He says Spadea called him a “crackpot” and said Tobias “should literally be indicted for child abuse,” and more. Tobias says the attacks have damaged his reputation and his business, the Center for Child and Family Development. Tobias is seeking compensatory and punitive damages, and more. Bill Spadea did not immediately respond to TALKERS’ request for comment on the lawsuit.

Dave Ramsey Presents Building Wealth Events to Sellout Crowds in Phoenix. Pictured above on stage at Central Christian Church in Mesa, Arizona is Ramsey Solutions’ Dave Ramsey presenting his Building Wealth live event before a sold-out audience. Ramsey Solutions says that retirement is the number one long-term savings goal among Americans, but according to the latest edition of The State of Personal Finance study by Ramsey Solutions, inflation and the cost of living are the two biggest factors impacting people’s savings plans. The report also found that nearly 60% of respondents said they worry about their general finances daily, and about half have lost sleep in the last three months due to financial worries. Partnering with local affiliate KTAR-FM, Ramsey Solutions produced the event on September 12 and 13. Each night included presentations from Ramsey, New York Times bestselling author Rachel Cruze and other Ramsey Personalities, including Dr. John Delony, Ken Coleman and George Kamel. Dave Ramsey states, “The reality is, you work too hard to feel this broke. In hard economic times and in good economic times, you have to prepare for your financial future. From my 30 years on the radio, I’ve seen over and over that real millionaires follow a proven plan for their money. This event will show you it’s possible for you too.”

Michael Biondo Promoted at iHeartMedia. The company promotes Michael Biondo to the position president of business development and strategic partnerships, effective immediately. He has been serving the company as EVP, strategic business operations of the iHeartMedia Networks Group. In his new role, Biondo will “oversee the evolution of iHeartMedia’s partnerships and deals with key companies across iHeartMedia’s field of view – from tech startups to established automotive companies, from the entertainment industry to international distribution.” iHeartMedia Digital Group CEO Conal Byrne states, “Mike has had a long, varied career at iHeartMedia, and has gained experience and wisdom across a diverse set of priorities, vendors and partners. With Mike in this new role, our company will be even better prepared to approach the market in a thoughtful, streamlined, strategic manner every day, and in every conversation.”

FOX News Media Names Jennifer Griffin Chief National Security Correspondent. Journalist Jennifer Griffin inks a new, multi-year deal with FOX News Media to serve as FOX News Channel’s chief national security correspondent. FOX News Media CEO Suzanne Scott says, “Jennifer is one of the industry’s premier journalists and has proven to be an indispensable asset on a consequential beat with unrivaled experience spanning more than three decades in multiple war zones. We are extremely proud that she will continue her incredible career at FOX News Media.” Griffin adds, “It has been an honor to provide viewers with trusted reporting from the Pentagon and across the world on issues that are paramount to all of us – the security and safety of our fellow citizens and allies. I am looking forward to continuing to inform the FOX News audience alongside the best journalists in the business.”

Colleen Grant Upped to Metro President for iHeartMedia Detroit. Management and sales pro Colleen Grant is named metro president for iHeartMedia Detroit. Grant has been serving the cluster as SVP of sales. The Detroit market is home to WDFN-AM “BIN Black Information Network” and five music brands. iHeartMedia division president Tom McConnell comments, “Colleen has been instrumental to the success in Detroit. She has created a culture of high performance, accountability and respect and is the perfect choice to lead the Detroit market.” Grant also served as the region vice president of automotive for iHeartMedia’s Detroit Region, and as co-host of iHeartMedia Detroit’s public service program, “Light Up the D.” She says, “This is a childhood dream come true for me. Having a father who was the general manager of television stations, I’d always wanted to oversee stations as he did. I saw the care for people it required, the creativity necessary to generate growth, and his commitment to the community. These are the things I plan to bring to this opportunity, and I couldn’t be more excited to do it.”

Politics and Elections Tie for Top News/Talk Story This Week. The combination of politics and the last of the primary elections before the November midterms was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the state of the U.S. economy tied with the averted rail strike, followed by former President Donald Trump’s legal issues at #3. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.

Ratings Takeaways

May 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

By Editor | by Editor

May 2022 PPM Data – Information for the May 2022 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 May 2022 sweep covered April 28 – May 25.

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 April 2022 – May 2022 (6+).

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 3.6 – 3.3, -.3, eighth to tenth

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 2.3 – 2.2, -.1, repeats at #19

News: Audacy’s WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 4.2 – 3.1, -1.1, #6 to #11 and co-owned WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 2.9 – 2.8, -.1, #13 to #14

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

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 3.3 – 3.1, -.2, #10 to #11

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM, first month, 6.3 – 6.7, +.4

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase: rhythmic CHR WKTU (+1.1)

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease: news WINS (-1.1)

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” 5.1 – 5.0, -.1, remains in third-place

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 3.4 – 3.2, -.2, eighth to tenth

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.1 – 2.4, +.3, #19 to #14

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST, eleventh successive month, 5.8 – 6.5, +.7

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase: urban contemporary KRRL (+.8)

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease: regional Mexican KLAX (-.6)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” 3.1 – 3.0, -.1, stays at #11

News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” 4.6 – 4.7, +.1, continues in fifth-place

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ flat at 4.8, repeats in fourth-place

Number One 6+: Hubbard Radio classic rock WDRV, first month, 5.7 – 6.0, +.3

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase: regional Mexican WOJO (+.9)

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease (Tie): urban AC WVAZ and hot AC WTMX (-.6)

SAN FRANCISCO

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

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.1 – 6.2, +.1, third to second

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 4.3 – 3.9, -.4, sixth to fifth

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” 1.1 – 2.2, +1.1, #24 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED 7.7 – 5.9, -1.8, first to third

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, first month, 6.6 – 6.8, +.2

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase: sports talk KGMZ (+1.1)

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk KQED (-1.8)*

*Represents the largest April 2022 – May 2022 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 2.9 – 3.6, +.7, #16 to #10

News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” flat at 2.1, #19 to #20

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” 3.6 – 4.9, +1.3, tenth to third

Audacy’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Rangers) 2.5 – 2.2, -.3, #17 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting-owned KERA 3.6 – 3.3, -.3, #10 to #14

Number One 6+: Univision regional Mexican KLNO, fourth month in a row, 6.1 – 6.6, +.5

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase: sports talk KTCK (+1.3)

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease: regional Mexican KNOR (-.5)

HOUSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” (Astros) 4.2 – 4.1, -.1, tenth to ninth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston-owned KUHF 2.4 – 2.7, +.3, anchored at #18

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, fourteenth consecutive month, 6.8 – 7.1, +.3

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase: alternative KTBZ (+1.8)**

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease: Spanish contemporary KLOL (-.8)

**Represents the largest April 2022 – May 2022 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 6.4 – 6.0, -.4, third to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” 2.2 – 2.3, +.1, #16 to #15

Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “The Fan” (Braves) 2.4 – 2.0, -.4, #15 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE 3.2 – 3.5, +.3, #12 to #11

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, fifth successive month, 7.4 – 8.6, +1.2

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies WSRV (+1.2)

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease (Tie): urban AC WALR and country WKHX (-.8)

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” steady at 5.4, seventh to fifth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Phillies) 5.2 – 5.1, -.1, repeats in eighth-place

Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” 2.4 – 2.3, -.1, continues at #13

WIP’s internet stream, 2.0 – 1.5, -.5, #16 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 5.6 – 5.5, -.1, stays at #4

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group rock WMMR, first month, 6.8 – 7.4, +.6

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase: classic rock WMGK (+.8)

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease (Tie): urban AC WDAS-FM; sports talk WIP’s internet stream; and news/talk WPHT’s internet stream (-.5)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 3.4 – 3.0, -.4, #9 to #12

Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 2.0 – 2.6, +.6, #17 to #15

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets)” 3.2 – 3.6, +.4, tenth to seventh and cluster-mate WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 2.8 – 2.6, -.2, #13 to #15

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 3.0 – 3.2, +.2, #11 to #10

Emmis’ WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” 1.2 – 2.1, +.9, #23 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic rock WBAB, first month, 5.2 – 5.7, +.5

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase: sports talk WEPN-FM (+.9)

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease: classic rock WAXQ (-.6)

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, flat at .4, unchanged at #19

Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC .1 – .2, +.1, #21 to #20

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, fifth consecutive month, 7.6 – 7.0, -.6

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase: urban-rhythmic oldies KQIE (+1.0)

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease: rock KLOS (-1.2)

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KGO “810 AM” 1.8 – 1.7, -.1, repeats at #15

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 4.4 – 5.4, +1.0, fourth to third

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 2.9 – 2.8, -.1, #8 to #11

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game”.9 – 1.6, +.7, #23 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Empire country KRTY fourth straight month 9.3 – 9.2, -.1

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase (Tie): adult contemporary KISQ and rhythmic CHR KYLD (+1.4)

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease: regional Mexican KSOL (-.6)

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 6.1 – 5.7, -.4, #1

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 1.8 – 2.2, +.4, repeats at #16 and co-owned WINS flat at 1.0, #21 to #20

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 3.1 – 3.3, +.2, ninth to tenth

Emmis’ WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” 1.6 – 1.1, -.5, #17 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: news/talk WKXW, fourth month in succession, 6.1 – 5.7, -.4

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase: urban contemporary WXBK (+1.1)

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease (Tie): Spanish tropical WSKQ and sports talk WEPN-FM (-.5)

Up next: May 2022 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.

Front Page News Industry News

Tuesday, May 24, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Greta Van Susteren Joins Newsmax for Nightly Show. Talk media personality and news anchor Greta Van Susteren is joining Newsmax as host of her own daily signature show, “The Record with Greta Van Susteren.” The program will be based in Washington, D.C. and will premiere on Tuesday, June 14. Newsmax says it will “lead the network’s evening lineup with a solid hour of factual, fair, and independent perspective on the news.” Van Susteren comments, “With all that is going on in the world, I am getting back to my roots — a daily live news show with real reporting from the places where things are happening. I have been friends with [Newsmax CEO] Chris Ruddy for years, and he is giving me this great opportunity to return, giving me the complete freedom to cover the news that really matters to people. I have been impressed by Newsmax’s team and their success and would love to be part of a news network that is really growing.” Van Susteren’s career includes high-profile positions at CNN, FOX News, and MSNBC, as well as her recent work with the Gray television network and as a contributor to Voice of America. Ruddy states, “No one in journalism better exemplifies Newsmax’s mission to provide fact-based news and fact-based opinion than Greta Van Susteren. We are so pleased and honored to have Greta lead our nightly news lineup of programs.”

 

WBAL-AM, Baltimore Pairs Torrey Snow and Dan Joseph for Afternoon Drive. Charm City radio personalities Torrey Snow (left) and Dan Joseph (right) have been working together at Hearst Television’s news/talk WBAL-AM in a limited fashion but now are officially the afternoon drive team. Effective yesterday (5/23), “Torrey and Dan” is the permanent 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm show. Torrey helmed “The Torrey Snow Program” on WBAL since August of 2020. Joseph had hosted his own program on the station before being partnered with Snow. WBAL president and general manager Dan Joerres says, “‘The Torrey and Dan Show’ is a terrific opportunity for two top-notch hosts to join forces and offer our listeners a dynamic show that touches on a wide range of topics every day. Our responsibility is to our listeners and this show further amplifies that commitment as the leading news/talk station in Baltimore and beyond.”

 

KMOX, St. Louis Announces New Midday Show. St. Louis news/talk KMOX announces that with the retirement of longtime talk host Charlie Brennan, it will debut its new midday program on May 31. Audacy announces that it is expanding the “Total Information AM” program to 10:00 am, “bolstered by co-anchors Carol Daniel, who returns to the newsroom and Megan Lynch, investigative reporter. Together with Debbie Monterrey and Tom Ackerman, they will deliver the news, traffic and weather listeners depend on, including analysis, in-depth interviews and open conversation.” The new midday program will consist of Amy Marxkors, Kevin Wheeler and Chris Rongey, and air weekdays from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Wheeler transitions from host of “Sports Open Line” and Cardinals baseball pregame and postgame host, while Rongey expands his part-time role. The station will immediately begin a search for a new host of “Sports Open Line” and Cardinals pregame and postgame programming. As a result of the changes, midday personality Ryan Wrecker exits the station. He says via Twitter, “Yesterday was my last day at KMOX. I would like to think we created some great moments in the last five years in St. Louis. At this point, I have no idea what will happen next, but I trust it’s set up to move in the right direction. Again, thank you all.” Audacy St. Louis SVP and market manager Becky Domyan states, “This series of updates underscores our overarching commitment to delivering news and balanced talk shows to the people of St. Louis, while accentuating the strength of our top-level hosts. From our award-winning morning show to our unrivaled coverage of the Cardinals, we want to elevate the conversation.”

 

KFI, Los Angeles Takes Eight Honors at 72nd Golden Mike Awards. Los Angeles news/talk KFI-AM took home eight awards at this past Saturday’s 72nd Annual Golden Mike Awards at Universal City. The press release says the Golden Mike Awards is Southern California’s most prestigious, and most coveted, broadcast journalism prize and one of America’s longest running broadcast news award programs. Robin Bertolucci, program director for the iHeartMedia station, says, “The content being produced by the KFI news department is exceptional and I am so proud of the KFI news team and the talented people who have produced these award-winning broadcasts and podcasts. And it’s exciting to note that KFI won twice as many awards as any other station in our division.” KFI won the following: Best Radio Documentary: “The Death and Life of Kobe Bryant,” produced by Steve Gregory, Jacob Gonzalez with associate producer Eric Sklar; Best Public Affairs Program: “After the Verdict, A Path Forward,” produced by Steve Gregory, Jacob Gonzalez with associate producers Kayla Austin and Clay Roe; Best Digital News Reporting: “Unhoused, A look at Homelessness in LA and OC,” produced by Steve Gregory, Jacob Gonzalez with associate producers Mark Mennie and Lt. Geoff Deedrick; Best Podcast – News: “9/11, Two Decades Later,” produced by Steve Gregory, Jacob Gonzalez, with associate producers Nico Melendez and Sheron Bellio; Best Podcast – Feature: “The Death and Life of Kobe Bryant,” produced by Steve Gregory and Jacob Gonzalez; Best Serious Feature Reporting: “Illegal Street Racing in the SFV,” produced by Steve Gregory; Best Government and Political Reporting: “2020 Voter Fraud Fear,” produced by Corbin Carson; and Best Newscast Under 15 Minutes: “KFI News with Michael Crozier,” produced by Michael Crozier.

 

WTAM, Cleveland and Bloomdaddy Raise $460k for Mike Trivisonno Fund. Yesterday’s radiothon on iHeartMedia Cleveland’s news/talk WTAM launched the “The Mike Trivisonno Fund” to benefit Coats for Kids and the special, seven-hour broadcast brought in $460,000 to the fledgling charity bearing the name of the station’s late PM drive personality. Current afternoon personality Bloomdaddy announced the $400,000 commitment to the charity from The Figgie Foundation. The broadcast included a visit from Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. Bloomdaddy says, “Triv always said it’s not the kids’ fault and I could not agree more. There is one thing I’m also passionate about and that is doing anything I can to help kids both on and off the air. I’m honored to carry the Coats for Kids torch and make sure Triv’s legacy lives on.” Pictured above are (from l-r): “Bloomdaddy Show” executive producer Carmen Angelo, iHeartMedia Cleveland Area metro president Keith Hotchkiss, DeWine, and Bloomdaddy. Photo by Mike Picha/iHeartMedia

 

SportsMap Launches New Daily Show with Jeff Michael. A new, daily program is launching on June 6 on SportsMap Radio called “The Rundown with Jeff Michael.” The 11:00 am to 1:00 pm show “will be an energetic and fast-paced program featuring the biggest guests and hottest takes in sports talk radio.” Jeff Michael has been a part-time host on the network since 2020 and has created numerous successful podcasts. He says, “Sports talk radio always meant the world to me. Having an opportunity to reach such a large national audience is something I do not take lightly. While I’m so grateful for the opportunity, my focus will always be on creating captivating and informative content.”

 

TALKERS News Notes. This Thursday (5/26) at 7:00 pm, Townsquare Media’s WKXW-FM, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5” presents the latest in a series of Town Hall broadcasts. “The Summer of ’22 – Back to the Beach” kicks off summer in the Garden State and the station’s Eric Scott will lead a panel of tourism officials, local mayors, law enforcement and travel experts. Tourism came roaring back after pandemic restrictions were lifted in 2021, but the surge in visitors has also caused disruptions and chaos in many shore towns, as was seen in Long Branch over the weekend when thousands of partygoers showed up at Pier Village for a pop-up party, leading to a curfew and over a dozen arrests. This year, there is also concern about the impact legal marijuana sales will have on tourism and law enforcement. Scott says, “From wild pop-up parties, groups of rowdy teens taking over the boardwalks and changes in policing laws, towns are trying to avoid a repeat, and provide the best possible experience for vacationing families.”…..The RTDNA is announcing the winners of Regional Edward R. Murrow Awards and iHeartMedia Boston’s all-news WBZ-AM wins three awards in the categories of Breaking News Coverage, Best Newscast, and Continuing Coverage. iHeartMedia Boston VP of news, talk & sports Rob Sanchez says, “These awards speak to the professionalism and bravery of our news team, who strive to deliver vital news coverage to those who rely on WBZ NewsRadio each day.”…..D’Annette Roy joins C-SPAN as the network’s new director of legal affairs and business risk management. She will provide legal advice, risk mitigation strategies, and project management acumen while also serving as a value-added partner aligned in achieving C-SPAN’s strategic goals. Roy joins C-SPAN from Black News Channel, where she was the manager of standards and practices.

 

Biden Asia Tour, Russia-Ukraine War, Midterms/Trump & the GOP, Inflation-Recession Fears, Title 42, COVID-19/Monkeypox, and Kellyanne Conway Book Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/23). President Joe Biden’s tour of Asia in which he met with prime ministers from India, Australia and Japan; the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine and its effects on the global economy; the primary elections for the November midterms and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; the high price of gas & food and fears of a recession; the Biden administrations challenge to Title 42 that prevents migrants from entering the U.S.; the rising rate of COVID-19 cases in parts of the U.S. and the spike in monkeypox cases around the world; and former Trump counselor Kellyanne Conway’s new memoir were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Front Page News Industry News

Tuesday, May 17, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Radio One Names Jeff Rickard Program Director for Sports Talk WFNZ, Charlotte. Sports talk radio pro Jeff Rickard is named program director for Radio One’s WFNZ-AM/FM. Rickard most recently served as brand manager for Audacy’s WEEI-FM, Boston. Prior to that, he was PD and morning host at Emmis’ WFNI, Indianapolis. During his career he’s also served with Comcast, ESPN Radio, and Sirius XM. Radio One RVP Marsha Landess comments, “We are committed to making sports radio even bigger in Charlotte, adding the 92.7 FM signal in March was just the beginning of that commitment. Having a successful veteran like Jeff Rickard join our team will help take us to the level that a passionate sports city like Charlotte deserves. Jeff brings to WFNZ extensive sports experience, talent, drive, and a passion for success. He will be a great complement to our incredibly talented local Charlotte on-air team. After our first conversation I knew he was the one to take us to the next level. As the flagship station for the Charlotte Hornets as well as Charlotte FC we are looking forward to an incredibly successful future with Jeff leading the charge.” Rickard adds, “I had been planning on taking a professional sabbatical this year but after meeting with Marsha Landess and learning more about Radio One, I began to get more excited to get back to work. Radio One as a company, combined with Marsha’s leadership and the potential for WFNZ, was just too appealing to not be a part of. I am extremely grateful to Radio One for this opportunity and can’t wait to start working with the talented staff in Charlotte. My family and I are all in on this situation and can’t wait to get started on this new chapter.”

 

Round One of April PPMs Released. The first of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s April PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey). Nielsen’s April 2022 sweep covered March 31 – April 27. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In New York, Red Apple Media’s news/talk WABC-AM/WLIR-FM dips two-tenths, posting a 3.6 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) but remains ranked #8. Audacy’s crosstown all-news WINS is up one-tenth, finishing the survey with a 4.2 share and rises to #6. iHeartMedia’s news/talk KFI, Los Angeles climbs four-tenths to wrap the survey with a 5.1 share and climbs to the #3 rank, while Audacy’s all-news KNX-FM loses half a share for a 3.4 share finish and falls to the #8 rank.  In Atlanta, Cox Media Group’s news/talk WSB-AM/WSBB-FM sheds a half share but remains ranked #3 on the strength of a 6.4 share. Townsquare Media’s news/talk WKXW-FM, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5” is ranked #1 in the Middlesex-Somerset-Union market despite losing seven-tenths and finishing with a 6.1 share. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets here.

 

FMR Associates-Eastlan: Radio Listening Rises 31% in Last Six Months. According to a study conducted in March and April for FMR Associates and Eastlan Ratings clients to determine usage levels of local AM/FM radio compared to the period six months prior, a number of positive conclusions were reached. The study reveals that in the last six months, weekly AM/FM radio listening is on the increase: 31% indicate they are listening to radio more, compared to 18% listening less. This finding is regardless of sex, age or market rank. FMR Associates-Eastlan says, “This unique finding bodes well for traditional radio growing as the pandemic comes to an end and even as more audio options such as podcasts and streaming platforms are available.” Digging deeper, the study found that the increase in weekly AM/FM listening is greatest among adults 25-44 at 37%. Men and women are equally increasing their listening time with AM/FM radio. More people going back to work, commuting and some cutting back on subscription audio or video services are among the primary factors cited for increased AM/FM consumption. Also, current weekly AM/FM radio listening is at 86% in the 25 to 64 age group. Significantly, cume listening is strong and consistent regardless of age, sex, market rank or geographic region. The statistically projectable national survey of 25 to 64 year-old adults from the thousands surveyed each month by Eastlan was demographically balanced and geographically representative.

 

Audacy’s State of Audio Explores Key Audio Trends. The second edition of Audacy’s “State of Audio” e-book that details key insights relevant to the listeners, creators and advertisers revolutionizing audio has been released. Some of the key metrics from the guide include: 1) Audio revenue outpaced video in 2021. Per the latest IAB Advertising Revenue Report, audio streaming revenue is up +59% YOY. And audio streaming growth is outpacing investments in video, social and search; 2) Audio usage has eclipsed TV, including CTV Audio reaches everyone, with 99% of US adults reporting using audio monthly. And that’s more than the total use of TV, including connected devices. (Source: Nielsen, Q4 2021); and 3) Time spent listening on AM/FM streaming and podcast content has increased +64% from 2015 to Q1 2022. (Source: Edison Research, Share of Ear Study, Q4 2015-Q1 2022). Audacy chief marketing officer Paul Suchman comments, “Audio is a trusted companion to hundreds of millions of listeners and more than any other medium, the best way creators across the globe connect with their audiences authentically and intimately at scale. Our second edition of the ‘State of Audio, The Disruptors: The Listeners, Advertisers, and Creators Revolutionizing Audio’ focuses on the people, strategies, and content shaping Audio’s meteoric rise as a must have media for marketers.” See more here.

 

KBLA, Los Angeles Debuts ‘A More Perfect Union.’ A new weekend program is launching this Sunday (5/22) on Smiley Audio Media’s KBLA, Los Angeles. “A More Perfect Union,” hosted by journalist, educator, and KBLA “Talk 1580” chief national political analyst Dr. Nii-Quartelai Quartey. Airing from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon, the program is a “national public affairs program, featuring notable journalists, industry leaders, lawmakers, changemakers, tastemakers, and ordinary people motivated to do their part to reach beyond today’s divisions; make sense out of news of the day and offer listeners a chance to build a more perfect union.” Smiley Audio Media owner Tavis Smiley says, “Now more than ever the Black constituency must first be made aware, and then armed with information that can help advance the issues we care about and repel the ideas that are antithetical to the best interests of our community. The time is now for ‘A More Perfect Union,’ which is a weekly show designed to keep our community in the know with a moderator like Dr. Quartey, who keeps his ear to the ground and his heart attuned to the causes we care about.”

 

‘100 Years of WGN Radio’ to Air on WGN-TV. On Thursday (5/19) at 7:00 pm, the special program, “100 Years of WGN Radio: A Retrospective,” will air on WGN-TV, Chicago. The 45-minute documentary produced by WGN Radio tells the story of the station, starting with its beginnings in 1922 when it was founded by Chicagoans Thorne Donnelley and Elliott Jenkins as WDAP, to highlighting moments throughout its century of history up to present day. Viewers will see the faces of familiar voices, including Bob Sirott, John Williams, Lou Manfredini, Steve King and Johnnie Putman, Dave Eanet, Mary Van De Velde, Dave Plier, and others, reflecting on their experiences at the station and sharing memorable moments. The program will be re-broadcast on Sunday, May 22 at 2:00 pm CT on WGN-TV.

 

Tim Hartlage Returns to Salem to Lead Sales in Nashville. Radio management pro Tim Hartlage is returning to Salem Media Group to serve as general sales manager for the company’s Nashville operations. Hartlage served as GSM and then general manager for the company’s Louisville station group from 2005 to 2015. He says, “Leaving Salem in 2015 to plant a much-needed church and ministry in Louisville’s southwest area, my old neighborhood, with my wife Jennifer, was one of the toughest decisions we had ever made. Returning to Salem and joining the Nashville team as general sales manager was one of the easiest. Salem Nashville is in an incredibly vibrant market with a great reputation. It’s great to be a part of the Salem Family again. It feels like a homecoming.”

 

Buffalo Shooting/Great Replacement Theory, the Economy, Russia-Ukraine War, Midterms/Trump & the GOP, COVID-19, and UFO Hearing Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/16). The aftermath of the deadly Buffalo shooting and talk of the Great Replacement Theory; the financial markets, inflation, and concerns about a major recession on the horizon; Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine and Vladimir Putin’s threats against Finland and Sweden; the primary races for November’s midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; the rising number of COVID-19 cases in the U.S.; and today’s scheduled congressional hearing on UFOs were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.