All Access Will Be Closed For The Memorial Day Holiday Weekend

ALL ACCESS will be closed for the MEMORIAL DAY weekend. Our offices will reopen early, TUESDAY, MAY 26th. If NET NEWS breaks over the weekend in your market, click here to report it.

A History Of The Holiday

MEMORIAL DAY is much more than a three-day weekend that marks the beginning of SUMMER. To many people, especially the nation's thousands of combat veterans, this day, which has a history stretching back all the way to the Civil War, is an important reminder of those who died in the service of their country.

MEMORIAL DAY was originally known as Decoration Day because it was a time set aside to honor the nation's Civil War dead by decorating their graves. It was first widely observed on MAY 30, 1868, to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers, by proclamation of General JOHN A. LOGAN of the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization of former sailors and soldiers. more »

Charlamagne Tha God Interview With Joe Biden Ends In Controversy

This Morning (5/22) PREMIERE NETWORKS BREAKFAST CLUB’s CHARLAMAGNE interviewed former U.S. VP and likely Democratic Presidential nominee JOE BIDEN.  

According to CNN, towards the end of the 18 minute interview an issue occurred when BIDEN rushed to end their conversation to make way for his wife to use the home studio. A staffer stated that BIDEN needed to go. CHARLAMAGNE said, "You can't do that to black media!" BIDEN said in response, "I do that to white media and black media because my wife has to go on at 6 o'clock."

CHARLAMAGNE then told BIDEN that he should come to the studio in NEW YORK CITY for another interview, adding, "We've got more questions." more »

Cumulus Media Adopts Its Own 'Poison Pill' Plan

Like ENTERCOM and iHEARTMEDIA before it, CUMULUS MEDIA has adopted a "poison pill"  short-term shareholder rights plan to prevent a third party from taking advantage of depressed stock prices during the pandemic to stage a takeover of the company.

The plan adopted by the board declared a dividend distribution of one right for each outstanding share of Class A or B common stock or Series 1 or 2 warrant, with a record date of JUNE 1st. The rights will only be exercisable if a third party newly acquires 10% (20% in the case of a passive institutional investor) or more of CUMULUS Class A shares, and will be convertible to Class A or B common shares or Series 1 or 2 warrants with a market value of twice the exercise price of $25 per right.

The rights will expire on APRIL 30, 2021 or an earlier redemption or exchange of the rights.

NAB Names Three To Radio Board

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BROADCASTERS Radio Board Chairman DAVE SANTRELLA has named three new members to the NAB Radio Board of Directors, effective on JUNE 8th with the beginning of the JUNE Board meeting.

NEUHOFF COMMUNICATIONS COO MIKE HULVEY has been appointed for a new two-year term as the District 10 (INDIANA) board representative. In addition, DAVIS BROADCASTING Pres./CEO GREG DAVIS and UNIVISION Pres. of Radio JESUS LARA have been appointed to at-large seats, replacing HUBBARD RADIO Chair/CEO GINNY MORRIS and UNIVISION CHICAGO Pres./GM DOUG LEVY, respectively.

BET Awards Go Virtual For This Year's Ceremony

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s 2020 BET AWARDS will go the virtual route to celebrate. The awards show will air on BET, SUNDAY JUNE 28th at 8p (ET), reports VIBE.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the BET Awards and the 40th anniversary of BET. It hasn’t been announced yet when BET AWARD nominations will be disclosed or who will participate in the virtual event.

According to VIBE, BET Pres. SCOTT MILLS said, “The BET AWARDS are a seminal event, the biggest celebration of Black culture, Black accomplishment, Black excellence, and Black potential. Our community, and the many millions who love Black culture, look to the BET AWARDS for signature moments of enrichment, entertainment, and empowerment.

Recognizing the unique role the BET AWARDS plays for so many, and the challenging times we find ourselves in, we know it was more important than ever to deliver the BET Awards in 2020.”

The BET EXPERIENCE, the three-day event leading up to the BET AWARDS scheduled for JUNE 25th -27th, has been canceled.

How Is Your Response To COVID-19 Changing As American Re-Opens? Make Sure You Have Your Finger On Your Community Needs To Keep Listeners Safe

Urge Your Listeners To Wear A Mask And Maintain Social Distancing

If predictions are accurate about COVID-19, we are going to be like this for a long, long time it seems -- and we'll be lucky if we don't have a second wave of infections and deaths due to people ignoring the need to wear masks, wash/disinfect hands often, and practice Social Distancing.

FACT... COVID-19 is still dangerous and deadly! With global infections now nearing the 5,250,000 mark and still growing, and now nearly 350,000 deaths, this viral pandemic continues to reshape our world, lives and day-to-day habits and activities on a societal basis. What we once took for granted to come and go as we please is now a memory. more »

TopLine By Futuri Presents Nielsen Audio April '20 Ratings Released Today

NIELSEN AUDIO APRIL '20 results arrive TODAY for FT. MYERS; TUCSON; TULSA; OMAHA; and BAKERSFIELD. Find the ratings for the subscribing stations in the ALLACCESS.COM NIELSEN AUDIO section after 2p (PT). 

Coming TUESDAY, MAY 26th: HONOLULU; ALBUQUERQUE; EL PASO; ALLENTOWN-BETHLEHEM; WILKES BARRE-SCRANTON; FRESNO; and KNOXVILLE.

Jeff Riger Named Wojo's Evening Co-Host At WXYT-F (97.1 The Ticket)/Detroit

ENTERCOM Sports WXYT-F (97.1 THE TICKET)/DETROIT has upped station veteran JEFF RIGER to co-host for 6-8p (ET) weeknights with BOB (WOJO) WOJNOWSKI, reports the DETROIT NEWS.

RIGER. who has been a reporter and fill-in host at the station for 18 years, fills the spot vacated when the station declined to renew the contract of KYLE "BOGIE" BOGENSCHUTZ in APRIL (NET NEWS 4/28).

Pennsylvania Cluster Sold

MAGNUM BROADCASTING, INC. is selling '80s WQKK (Q106.9) and its booster WQKK-FM1/RENOVO, PA; Rock WQCK (QWIK ROCK 105.9)/PHILIPSBURG, PA and its booster WQCK-FM1/STATE COLLEGE, PA; News-Talk WBLF-A/BELLEFONTE, PA; and W292EZ/ALTOONA, PA to SCHLESINGER COMMUNICATIONS, INC. for $350,000 for WQKK and its booster, WBLF, and W292EZ and $25,000 and payment of the remaining balance of a promissory note for WQCK and its booster.

In other filings with the FCC, FORT WALTON BEACH EDUCATIONAL BROADCASTING FOUNDATION is transferring noncommercial Contemporary Christian WPSM/FORT WALTON BEACH, FL to DESTINY WORSHIP CENTER INC. The resolution by the transferor's board notes that "financial conditions facing FORT WALTON BEACH EDUCATIONAL BROADCASTING FOUNDATION and WPSM make the continued operation of WPSM doubtful."

EDUCATIONAL MEDIA FOUNDATION has applied for an STA to operate KPLV/CORPUS CHRISTI, TX with a temporary antenna on a temporary tower after its licensed tower collapsed.

Filing for Silent STAs were TOWER ROAD MEDIA, INC. (WDUX-A/WAUPACA, WI, just acquired station and is updating and improving facilities) and CSN INTERNATIONAL (K255CS/LINCOLN, NE, transmitter failure).

And Y BRIDGE BROADCASTING, INC. has closed on the sale of Classic Hits WYBZ (Y107.3)/CROOKSVILLE-ZANESVILLE, OH to JOEL LOSEGO's AVC COMMUNICATIONS MULTIMEDIA GROUP, LLC for $1.4 million.

KKGO/Los Angeles Adds Adam Bookbinder In Mornings

MT. WILSON FM BROADCASTERS Country KKGO (GO COUNTRY 105)/LOS ANGELES Digital Director ADAM BOOKBINDER as been upped to morning co-host, joining TIM HURLEY on the air. BOOKBINDER, who begins his on-air duties on MONDAY, MAY 25th, succeeds former morning co-host ANGIE FITZSIMMONS, who departed in APRIL (NET NEWS 4/29).

BOOKBINDER has been with the station for three years. Prior to that, he spent 14 years as Digital Content Manager at CBS RADIO’s KTWV (94.7 THE WAVE) and KRTH (K-EARTH 101)/LOS ANGELES. His on-air experience includes KBBY/OXNARD-VENTURA, CA and WPST/TRENTON, NJ.

"We could not be more excited to have ADAM join TIM in the mornings on GO COUNTRY 105,” said Station Mgr./PD MICHAEL LEVINE. “He is a seasoned professional who has worked extremely well with TIM over the last year. We look forward to an exciting and entertaining show from the both of them."

John Murphy Exits WGR/Buffalo's 'One Bills Live' But Will Remain Bills Play-By-Play Voice

BUFFALO BILLS radio play-by-play voice JOHN MURPHY has exited his hosting duties on the "ONE BILLS LIVE" show airing weekdays noon-3p (ET) on ENTERCOM Sports WGR-A/BUFFALO and MSG NETWORK but will continue calling the BILLS games, reports the BUFFALO NEWS. CHRIS BROWN and MADDY GLAB will split duties in replacing MURPHY on the radio/TV simulcast show, which is produced by BILLS owner TERRY PEGULA's PEGULA SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT.

MURPHY, whose contract for the show was expiring next month, told the NEWS that the decision to leave was “sort of a mutual one” and that he wanted to spend more time with his grandson and stay healthy during the pandemic.

WJDX/Jackson, MS Flips To Urban As The New Real 105.1

iHEARTMEDIA has flipped Classic Hits WJDX (105.1 THE RIVER)/JACKSON, MS to Urban as THE NEW REAL 105.1, JACKSON's New #1 For Hip Hop And R&B. THE NEW REAL 105.1 has launched with 10,000 songs in a row and will feature personalities T-ROY, BIG SUE, PAPA KEITH and PREMIERE's syndicated morning show, THE BREAKFAST CLUB with DJ ENVY, ANGELA YEE and CHARLAMAGNE THA GOD.

iHEARTMEDIA/JACKSON Market Pres. MIKE COMFORT commented, "We are excited to launch THE NEW REAL 105.1 in JACKSON and bring another choice for Hip Hop and R&B to the market. Based on our research, we know not only is this going to connect with our market’s audience, but this format is also going to produce a strong listener base for our advertisers - things just got real!" more »

WMEX-A/Quincy, MA Debuts Oldies Format

JOE McMILLAN checks in with ALL ACCESS to share that ED PERRY's MARSHFIELD BROADCASTING has finally debuted WMEX-A/QUINCY, MA as an Oldies station.

The station features LARRY JUSTICE  from 9:15a-2p and JOE MC MILLAN from 2-6p and features a mix of hits from the 50s, 60s and 70s.

26th Annual Communicator Awards Winners Announced

Winners of the ACADEMY OF INTERACTIVE & VISUAL ARTS' 26th Annual Communicator Award of Excellence have been announced, with this year's honors including three new categories, Branded Entertainment, Podcast Series and Social Campaign.

Audio winners included:

• On-Air Talent: ANDY DANISH, "BLOODLINES 2" "Born a Crime" teaser trailer voiceover
• Production, On Air Talent, Editing, Writing, Beyond Definition: BANG ZOOM! STUDIOS, "THE STRANGE THING ABOUT...."   
• Commercial Campaign: TRANSURBAN, "Drive Happy" 395 Express Lanes Launch Campaign   
• Program: CTNY, Wineskins
• Commercial Campaign: KATE DELANEY/DELANEY MEDIA GROUP, "Her Story"
• Commercial: ENTERCOM, "North Pole Flyer"
• Program: EVERY NOW AND THEN THEATRE, "NIKOLA TESLA: MYSTERIOUS GENIUS"
• Writing: ICMA-RC, "We're ICMA-RC"
• Promotion: MADAVEGROUP, LAKELAND AUTO AND MARINE," Previously (On Hold Marketing)"
• Commercial: MENSCH KREATIVAGENTUR GMBH & CO. KG, ICPCN (INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S PALLIATIVE CARE NETWORK)    , "Love is"
• Original Music: SONIXPHERE, ABBOTT "Harmony"
• Commercial Campaign: SPLASH OMNIMEDIA, DEPENDABLE SERVICE, "Life Ain't Easy"
• Commercial: TARGET RIVER, BIGGS HARLEY DAVIDSON Commercial
• Jingle: TRI-STATE GENERATION & TRANSMISSION ASSOCIATION, INC., MOUNTAIN PARKS ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION, "Electric Bus" radio ad
• Commercial: WAX CUSTOM COMMUNICATIONS, CHRISTIANACARE, W&C Radio Spot -- 2
• WEFRA LIFE
• Commercial: VITA ASSISTENZHUNDE E.V. (VITA Guide Dogs), Radio Commercial

Podcast winners included: more »

Morning Show Boot Camp Moves To September

DON ANTHONY's MORNING SHOW BOOT CAMP has been rescheduled for SEPTEMBER 24-25 at the SWISSOTEL in CHICAGO. The show was previously scheduled for AUGUST 6-7 and is moving due to continuing concerns about the COVID-19 pamdemic.

ANTHONY said, "After much thought, countless conversations and continued concern for the safety, well being and challenges faced by our attendees and sponsors during the COVID-19 crisis, we’ve decided to reschedule MORNING SHOW BOOT CAMP 32 to SEPTEMBER 24 and 25 at the SWISSOTEL in CHICAGO. By moving back to SEPTEMBER, more than a month and half later, gives all of us some extra breathing room for things to inch back closer to normal."

The show will add a job fair and discount registration and lower hotel rates will be posted starting next week.

WGCI/Chicago Partners With City For Stay-At-Home Memorial Weekend Programming

iHEARTMEDIA Urban WGCI (107.5)/CHICAGO and the city have partnered for two days of virtual entertainment to encourage residents to stay home while still experiencing music and culture over the MEMORIAL DAY weekend.

Under the STAY AT HOME order and CDC guidelines prohibiting gatherings of over 10 people, the virtual entertainment will provide CHICAGO residents with an online opportunity to celebrate the weekend at home.

Said CHICAGO Chief Equity Officer CANDACE MOORE, “As we navigate these unprecedented times, we have to reimagine how we can safely celebrate important moments in our lives and memorialize our history and loved ones. I am excited for this creative partnership with iHEARTMEDIA CHICAGO and WGCI that will provide a platform for CHICAGOANS to celebrate the holiday through a medium that is accessible and trusted. This will provide great entertainment over the weekend and continue to drive home the message about the importance of social distancing in controlling the spread COVID-19 and ultimately preparing us for recovery.”

The weekend starts SATURDAY with an INSTAGRAM BATTLE between two of CHICAGO’s own hip hop artists, GHERBO and LIL DURK, starting at 8p (CT), these two critically acclaimed and popular rappers will go song-for-song for the title of STAY AT HOME WEEKEND RAP KING. 

Said iHEARTMEDIA CHICAGO President MATT SCARANO, “I am honored to have the privilege of partnering with the city of CHICAGO in its mission of promoting the health and safety of our community during this critical time. As a broadcaster it is our responsibility to engage in continuous collaboration with MAYOR LORI LIGHTFOOT and the CHICAGO community." 

On SUNDAY, the weekend continues with a virtual comedy tour hosted by WGCI’s LEON ROGERS, featuring JUST NESH, DAWN B., LAVAR WALKER, CORREY B and DAMON WILLIAMS. 

Redwood Empire Stereocasters/Santa Rosa Boosts Art For Youth With Online Talent Contest

REDWOOD EMPIRE STEREOCASTERS/SANTA ROSA, CA's five station cluster (Country KBBL (93.7 THE BULL), Adult Standards KBBL-HD2 (JAZZY 99.1) AC KZST (100.1), Oldies/Adult Hits KWVF (102.7 THE WOLF), and Top 40 KJZY (106.3 THE BEAT)) is presenting the first ever SONOMA COUNTY STARS OF TOMORROW youth talent competition.

An original field of 36 contestants aged 14-18 was narrowed to 10 finalists after radio station listeners viewed their online performance videos and cast more than 73,000 votes for their favorites. The finalists will now compete for more than $10,000 in prizes, but only one will earn the grand prize of a $5,000 account at COMMUNITY FIRST CREDIT UNION. The runner up will receive a $1,500 gift certificate for MONTGOMERY VILLAGE shopping center. Both winners will be decided by a panel of celebrity judges, all professionals in the entertainment industry with local ties. The judges are led by WESTWOOD ONE syndicated Country radio personality ELAINA SMITH.  more »

KQGO (GO 96.3)/Minneapolis Hits Ctrl-Alt-Delete On 2020 With A 'Go Back Weekend'

GO MEDIA Alternative KQGO (GO 96.3)/MINNEAPOLIS is pressing Ctrl-Alt-Deltete on the first five months and giving 2020 a reboot over MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND with a "GO BACK WEEKEND." On SATURDAY 5/23, SUNDAY 5/24 and MONDAY 5/25,. GO 96.3 will be counting down the Top 96 Alternative Songs of the 90s, 2000s and 10s" as voted on by the GO 96.3 listeners over this past week.

“These countdowns are phenomenal because it really puts into perspective the range that alternative music has covered in the last 30 years,” said GO 96.3 MD/eve ning host JORDAN ALAMAT. "Personally, it’s wildly fun and challenging to try and vote for songs through the lens of ‘was this a big hit at the time?’ vs ‘did this song age well?’ vs ‘did this song get a new life in the age of social media?’and I’m excited to hear the perspective of people of the TWIN CITIES on the air!”   more »

Launch of the Colorado Music Relief Fund To Kick Off With ‘Banding Together Concert’

A new statewide initiative called THE COLORADO MUSIC RELIEF FUND (CMRF) has been formed in partnership with the STATE OF COLORADO and COLORADO CREATIVE INDUSTRIES to support music industry workers across the state.

On SATURDAY, MAY 30th 6-9p MT, CMRF will launch with a virtual event, presented by BRECKENRIDGE BREWERY dubbed BANDING TOGETHER: A CONCERT FOR THE COLORADO MUSIC RELIEF FUND to generate much-needed relief funds to help all those in the COLORADO music industry affected by the CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19).  

Artist who will perform include THE AVETT BROTHERS, BIG HEAD TODD & THE MONSTERS, BRANDI CARLILE, DAVE MATTHEWS, THE LUMINEERS, MICHAEL FRANTI, NATHANIEL RATELIFF, RODRIGO Y GABRIELA, SAM BUSH, THE STRING CHEESE INCIDENT, JACK JOHNSON, GRACE POTTER and more. more »

Music Biz Partners With Record Store Day For Couch Camp

As part of their efforts to bring educational content to the industry at large as it practices social distancing, the MUSIC BUSINESS ASSOCIATION (MUSIC BIZ) and RECORD STORE DAY will co-host the COUCH CAMP educational conference, set for TUESDAY, JUNE 2nd through FRIDAY, JUNE 5th via ZOOM as part of RSD's annual SUMMER CAMP program. . 

Each day will consist of three hours of programming starting at 3p (ET), including a mix of webinar presentations, roundtable discussions, and one-on-one speed dating intros, all culminating in a cocktail party on JUNE 5th. Retail store attendees can expect presentations from PATREON, eBAY, INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK, SHOPIFY, BROADTIME and others, as well as roundtable discussions on subjects including social media best practices, leadership in the time of COVID-19 and beyond, and financial planning. more »

Scripps Family Impact Fund Donates To Employee Relief Fund, Food Pantries, COVID-19 Research

THE E.W. SCRIPPS COMPANY's SCRIPPS FAMILY IMPACT FUND is donating $1.6 million to three initiatives, including a relief fund for employees.

The SCRIPPS COVID-19 Employee Relief Fund is receiving a contribution from the SCRIPPS FAMILY IMPACT FUND, allowing the relief fund, created by the SCRIPPS HOWARD FOUNDATION in MARCH, to give up to $2,000 per SCRIPPS employee in need due to the pandemic and economic crisis, doubling the original $1,000 per employee.

In addition, donations are going to food pantries in SCRIPPS TV markets and markets where its national brands -- including STITCHER, NEWSY, the KATZ digital TV networks and the SCRIPPS WASHINGTON Bureau -- operate, and to the SCRIPPS RESEARCH INSTITUTE in SAN DIEGO, where research is ongoing towards treatment of COVID-19. more »

Beasley/New Jersey Launches Merchandise Line To Raise Funds For Pandemic Relief Fund

BEASLEY MEDIA GROUP's NEW JERSEY stations are selling "NEW JERSEY Stands Together" and "JERSEY SHORE Stands Together" merchandise to raise funds for the NEW JERSEY Pandemic Relief Fund. The merch includes t-shirts, ladies' tank tops, coffee mugs, phone cases, and stickers, with 100% of proceeds going to the fund.

“We are incredibly grateful for the hard work and commitment of the BEASLEY MEDIA GROUP,” said NEW JERSEY First Lady and the fund's founding Chair TAMMY SNYDER MURPHY. “The money raised from this merchandise will help address the urgent needs of our community, both now and in the weeks and months ahead as we continue fighting this pandemic.”

“Our heritage radio stations are all about the local communities,” said BEASLEY MEDIA GROUP NEW JERSEY SVP/Regional Market Manager DAN FINN. “We proved that during Superstorm Sandy. It’s an honor to contribute towards helping those who are helping others during this crisis.”

BEASLEY's NEW JERSEY stations include Rock WDHA and Oldies WMTR-A/MORRISTOWN; News-Talk WCTC-A and AC WMGQ (MAGIC 98.3)/NEW BRUNSWICK, Active Rock WRAT (95.9 THE RAT)/POINT PLEASANT, and Classic Hits WJRZ/MANAHAWKIN.

NON-COMMvention And WXPN/Philadelphia Introduce ‘NON-COMM Thursdays’

With the 2020 NON-COMMVENTION cancelled due to the CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) pandemic UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA Triple A WXPN/PHILADELPHIA and the annual NON-COMMVENTION staff have decided to do weekly webinar-style meetings celebrating the music and exploring key issues for the noncommercial Triple A format.

The first webinar will be THURSDAY, MAY 28th at 6p (ET). WXPN OM/MD and NON-COMMVENTION founder DAN REED will host the first meeting, focused on the challenges and opportunities that the current health crisis has created for public stations. REED will interact with panel members RITA HOUSTON (PD WFUV/NEW YORK), ANNE LITT (PD KCRW/LOS ANGELES) and JORDAN LEE (PD MILWAUKEE).

There will also be a virtual live performance from S.G. GOODMAN, who was slated to perform at this year's NON-COMMVENTION.

Then, every THURSDAY at 6p (ET), there will be another NON-COMM THURSDAYS session. 

More details for the first webinar will be revealed early NEXT WEEK.

KNDD (107.7 The End)/Seattle Counts Down The Top 107 Songs Of Last Decade

ENTERCOM Alternative KNDD (107.7 THE END)/SEATTLE will reminisce about the good ol’ days, before quarantine, with the "TOP 107 SONGS OF LAST DECADE, BECAUSE THIS ONE SUCKS" countdown beginning SATURDAY, MAY 23rd at 4p for the MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND.

107.7 THE END PD LESLIE SCOTT told ALL ACCESS, “Let’s be honest, the ‘Roaring Twenties’ haven’t started as planned. We figured our listeners could use a helping of musical comfort food, so GREGR, ALYSSA and WALT are hosting a celebration of the 2010s all weekend like only they can.”  

THE END's TOP 107 SONGS OF LAST DECADE starts SATURDAY (5/23) at 4p, SUNDAY (5/24) at noon, and MEMORIAL DAY at 10a. It's supported by SKREWBALL PEANUT BUTTER WHISKEY. Tune in at 1077theend.radio.com. 

The Alarm's Mike & Jules Peters To Guest DJ On SiriusXM's '1st Wave' Show

THE ALARM's MIKE and JULES PETERS are set to guest DJ on SIRIUS XM's "1ST WAVE" Show this MEMORIAL DAY weekend.  

The pair will take over the show for "ARTIST DJ" Weekend, sharing their rock 'n' roll life stories  in between spinning tracks from the NEW WAVE era of the late '70s and early '80s, including three ALARM songs.  

The PETERS will be joining other legendary artists like BILLY IDOL, MARKY RAMONE, DEVO's GERALD CASALE, BERLIN's TERRI NUNN and more to DJ to the nation this MEMORIAL DAY weekend, MAY 23rd through 25th.

WGAR/Cleveland Shuffles Lineup

There’s a lineup change at iHEARTMEDIA Country WGAR/CLEVELAND, where PD/afternoon host CARLETTA BLAKE, shifts to mornings, where she will be paired with current morning co-host STEVE WAZZ. The show, which debuts on TUESDAY, MAY 26th, has been re-christened “WAZZ and CARLETTA Mornings.” LEEANN SOMMERS moves from mornings, where she had been teamed with WAZZ since 2018, to afternoons.

In a FACEBOOK post, BLAKE explained that the chance was made because SOMMERS “has adopted a beautiful new daughter and her life at home is different. Which means her work life needed to be different."

Bloomberg Radio, TV To Simulcast Two Hours Of 'Bloomberg Surveillance'

BLOOMBERG RADIO and TELEVISION's "BLOOMBERG SURVEILLANCE" will add a two-hour daily radio/TV simulcast starting TUESDAY (5/26). The show, which airs 4-7a on TV and 7-10a on radio, will simulcast the 7-9a hours with TOM KEENE, JONATHAN FERRO, and LISA ABRAMOWICZ anchoring. The show will continue to air 9-10a on radio with KEENE and PAUL SWEENEY, and 4-5a with FRANCINE LACQUA and 5-7a with LACQUA and KEENE on TV.

“We are constantly looking for opportunities to harness the power of BLOOMBERG’s unparalleled newsroom to bring our global audience the information they need. The expansion of ‘BLOOMBERG SURVEILLANCE’ to a BLOOMBERG TELEVISION and RADIO simulcast is the latest demonstration of this,” said BLOOMBERG TELEVISION and RADIO Global Head AL MAYERS. “The simulcast will now reach our viewers around the world, while existing listeners will be brought one step closer to the action.”

Buck Sexton Talks To Trump In Oval Office

PREMIERE NETWORKS' BUCK SEXTON was one of the talk radio hosts who interviewed President TRUMP this week, but with one difference: SEXTON interviewed TRUMP in person, in the Oval Office.

The conversation took place WEDNESDAY (5/22) and SEXTON was tested for COVID-19 (negative) before he was able to talk to TRUMP. SEXTON, a TRUMP supporter, said that WEDNESDAY "was a good day for Team BUCK, and I’m glad that we had the chance to go down there."

WNYC Studios Cancels 'Nancy' Podcast

WNYC STUDIOS has cancelled LGBTQ+ podcast "NANCY" after three years.

Hosts KATHY TU and TOBIN LOW announced the show's end on TWITTER, writing, "We are so proud of the work we did on this show. The stories that we've gotten to share with you over the last three years have meant the world to us. And above all else, the love you have shown us has neen unbelievable." TU and LOW will be joining the staff at "RADIOLAB" in JULY, while the last episode of "NANCY" will post on JUNE 29th.

An announcement: pic.twitter.com/if9B35IgnT

— Nancy Podcast (@NancyPodcast) May 22, 2020

LiveXLive, PodcastOne To Stream Adam Carolla 'Video Podcast' Special Saturday

LIVEXLIVE is partnering with PODCASTONE, which it recently announced it is acquiring in a stock deal (NET NEWS 5/8), to produce and distribute a streaming stand-up comedy and music "video podcast" special with ADAM CAROLLA. The "Vodcast," part of CAROLLA's stand-up comedy touring act "ADAM CAROLLA IS UNPREPARED," will stream live from the HOUSTON IMPROV with musical performances by GRAHAM PARKER (performing in LONDON) and JOHN HIATT and an appearance by Rep. DAN CRENSHAW (R-TX). The event is a benefit for the HOUSTON FOOD BANK. The show will be available live on SATURDAY (5/23) at 4p (ET) with replays available on demand, and will be fed as an episode of CAROLLA's daily podcast on MONDAY. more »

ABC Audio Relaunching COVID-19 Podcast As 'Bringing America Back: What You Need To Know'

ABC AUDIO is relaunching its “COVID-19: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW” podcast on TUESDAY (5/26) as “BRINGING AMERICA BACK: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW.”

AARON KATERSKY will continue to host the daily one-hour podcast, now focusing on both the pandemic and the reopening of the economy.

Larry King To Host Podcast

LARRY KING is starting a podcast for his son CHANCE KING and JEFF BEACHER's 4FORTY4 MEDIA, reports VARIETY. The 86-year-old host's new podcast, "THE MILLIONTH QUESTION," is scheduled for a mid-JUNE debut for an 11-episode first season.

While the article claims that KING is "guaranteed $5 million under a multiyear contract," no specifics of the deal were disclosed; KING said MARIAH CAREY will be among the first guests, but her participation was not confirmed by a representative of the singer. KING hosts a show for ORA TV and Russian state network RT AMERICA.

BEACHER, who produced the "BEACHER'S MADHOUSE" live variety show in LAS VEGAS and HOLLYWOOD, told VARIETY that other 4FORTY4 podcast projects include comedian and roast emcee JEFFREY ROSS' "THICK SKIN" and BEACHER's own "WEIGHT LOSS JOURNEY."

Red Bull Presents New Series 'Check Your DMs'

RED BULL is producing a brand new series, "RED BULL Check Your DMs." The series uncovers what it means to collaborate in the digital age. Three artists who have never met, from three different countries and three different musical backgrounds work together on a brand new track, entirely online. 

The new series boasts a global roster of artists, featuring musicians and producers from the U.K. (MS BANKS, DJ Q, FLAVA D, BURNA), CANADA (RYAN HEMSWORTH), JAPAN (TOFU BEATS), THE NETHERLANDS (GAIDAA), AUSTRALIA (DIAMOND VARGAS), SOUTH KOREA (CIFIKA), MEXICO (GIRL ULTRA), AUSTRIA (PHIL SPEISER, PALAZZO BEATS), USA (WOW JONES) and PUERTO RICO (YARTZE).

The first episode of the series debuted TODAY (5/22) on THE RED BULL MUSIC YOUTUBE CHANNEL.

KOPW (Power 106.9)/Omaha Has Rare PM Drive Opening

NRG MEDIA Top 40/Rhythmic KOPW (POWER 106.9)/OMAHA has a unusual afternoon drive opportunity. 

Are you well organized, self-motivated and an effective multi-tasker with high energy and a passion for radio? Do you easily connect with people on-air, in person and are you proactive and innovative with social media and video? Do you have production skills, too?

Send your package including brief airchecks and links to all social media. Please use this link to apply. 

Former WSIG/Harrisonburg, VA Personality Dusty Rhodes Dies At 74

ALL ACCESS sends condolences to the family, friends and former colleagues of retired SAGA COMMUNICATIONS Country WSIG/HARRISONBURG, VA air personality DUSTY RHODES, who died on WEDNESDAY, MAY 20th at his home in ELKTON, VA at the age of 74. A market veteran, RHODES joined WSIG as midday host in 2012 and retired in JANUARY of this year.

GRAY TELEVISION ABC affiliate WHSV-TV reports that RHODES worked in local radio since 1966. WSIG PD PAUL “UNCLE PAULY” MCDANIEL told WHSV that RHODES retired for health reasons. To mark his retirement, the station re-branded as “DUSTY 96.9” for a day in JANUARY.

In a FACEBOOK post YESTERDAY (5/21), the station wrote “The sound of DUSTY’s voice - one of the most recognizable and well-loved in the Valley — will be missed by his WSIG family and all who worked with him at HARRISONBURG RADIO GROUP.” WSIG aired a special tribute to RHODES this morning (5/22).

Condolences can be sent to his family at 265 Mt. Olivet Church Road, ELKTON, VA 22827.

Happy Birthday

ALL ACCESS Happy Birthday wishes FRIDAY (5/22) to RCS' MARK BOLKE, MOORE MONEY's BOB MOORE, retired WJBR/WILMINGTON’s MICHAEL WAITE, former WDZH/DETROIT PD/MD IAN “SLACKER” RICHARDS, former WIAD/WASHINGTON D.C. PD CHRIS ROTH, WZPL/INDIANAPOLIS MD NIKKI REED, WFHN/FAIRHAVEN, MA APD CHRISTINE FOX, KMPS/SEATTLE News Dir. STEPHEN KILBREATH, HSK PRODUCTIONS' HAL KNAPP, KXLY/SPOKANE MD MARIE MCCALLISTER, SIRIUS Jazz consultant STEVE WILLIAMS, WAYZ/HAGERSTOWN-CHAMBERSBURG, MD TORI ANDERSON and to WTMP/TAMPA’s MIKE MARLOWE. more »

ALL ACCESS ACTION

JEFF MCCLUSKY, LORI KAMPA, LISA SONKIN, GAVIN MURPHY, HOWARD PETRUZIELLO, AARON ZYTLE, LESLEY JAMES, JEFF MORAD, ADAM BOOKBINDER, CARLETTA BLAKE, LEEANN SOMMERS, BRELAND, MORGAN WALLEN, MARC ANTHONY, BRAD JOHNSONMARK MCCRAY, SHADY SPENCER, DEANNA CRUZ, MERCEDES HOWARD, BRIAN DAVIS, MARK MCCRAY, SHADY SPENCER, DEANNA CRUZ, MERCEDES HOWARD, BRIAN DAVIS, RON SORENSON, SCOTT ARBOUGH, JADE SPRINGART, GLENN GARZA, JEFFREY NAUMANN, JOSH EPPLE, WALT LOVE, CHARLAMAGNE THA GOD, EJ GREIG, ANGELIQUE PERRIN.

Copyright Office Review Of DMCA Safe Harbors Says System Is 'Unbalanced,' While Music Industry, Artists Groups Say Big Tech Should Fix It

The U.S. COPYRIGHT OFFICE has released the results of its multiyear study of the DIGITAL MILLENNIUM COPYRIGHT ACT, Section 512 of the Copyright Act, concluding that the law's safe harbor system today is "unbalanced" and calling on CONGRESS to fix it, while industry organizations from both the label and artist sides charged that big tech platforms should and can make changes to address the problems.

The report says that the implementation of the rules is "out of sync with Congress’ original intent," citing areas of trouble being eligibility qualifications; repeat infringer policies; knowledge requirement standards; takedown notice specificity; non-standard notice requirements; subpoenas; and injunctions. However, the OFFICE is not recommending any wholesale changes to the provision, asking CONGRESS to instead consider legislation to fix the problem. The OFFICE suggested that CONGRESS can require TWITTER, FACEBOOK, and other platforms make their policies for terminating repeat infringers public instead of internal, and that CONGRESS can define when a platform's knowledge or lack of knowledge of infringement constitutes a liability and when it is protected. more »

Media Monitors Study: Home Improvement Advertisers Find Receptive Work-From-Home Audience

MEDIA MONITORS data for FEBRUARY through APRIL of this year show the top two radio advertisers in the home improvement products and services category were CERTA PRO PAINTERS (36,189 instances) and WINDOW NATION (32,379).

MEDIA MONITORS Pres./CEO PHILLIPPE GENERALI said, "AMERICANS are taking on more home improvement projects while stay-at-home orders are in effect. There’s an opportunity for manufacturers to advertise their products directly to consumers, who are very receptive at the moment."

Overall, the top 10 advertisers in radio, local cable and TV aired 17,255 instances more from FEBRUARY through APRIL 2020 than the top 10 did during the same period in 2019.

Study Looks At How Pandemic Globally Affected Music Listening Patterns

BMAT MUSIC INNOVATORS, the BARCELONA-based music monitoring and reporting service, has released a report on how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected music consumption and usage on a global basis, "What The FAQ Is Going On With Music Right Now?"

The impact of the CORONAVIRUS and quarantine on media and music has been dramatic in some niches, such as sports broadcasting, yet barely noticeable in others. Despite expectations, speech content for some analyzed regions only ticked slightly upward -- 0.35% -- versus music on the radio, perhaps a mild reflection of the increase in urgent news coverage the pandemic has been demanding. more »

Global COVID-19 Infections Pass 5,000,000 Mark, USA Approaches 1.6 Million; Help Your Audiences Stay Safe As America Re-Opens More Each Day

Urge Your Listeners To Wear A Mask And Maintain Social Distancing

FACT... COVID-19 is still dangerous and deadly! With global infections now over the 5,000,000 mark and still growing, and now over 325,000 deaths, this viral pandemic continues to reshape our world, lives and day-to-day habits and activities on a societal basis. What we once took for granted to come and go as we please is now a memory.

There are nearly 1,600,000 cases, and over 94,000 deaths in the US -- more cases than anywhere else on earth with predictions of upwards of 200,000+ deaths domestically before its over and the possibility of a second or third infection wave. Watch the growth of this invisible killer here.

As States Re-Open, What Are You Doing To Help Clients? more »

Stacey Benson Named CFO Of CBS News

VIACOMCBS Global Media Operations SVP of Finance STACEY BENSON has been named CFO of CBS NEWS, effective JULY 1st. BENSON, the former SVP of Finance at CBS RADIO, will report to CBS NEWS Pres./Sr. Exec. Producer SUSAN ZIRINSKY and CBS EVP/CFO BRYON RUBIN.

“STACEY is an innovative financial professional who understands CBS NEWS,” said ZIRINSKY. “She has done amazing work for CBS, and we look forward to her being an integral member of the News division.”

RUBIN said, “STACEY has excelled in each and every role she’s had at the company. I’m excited for her to take the next step in her CBS career at CBS NEWS.”

TopLine By Futuri Presents Nielsen Audio April '20 Ratings Released Today

NIELSEN AUDIO APRIL '20 results arrive TODAY for ALBANY-SCHENECTADY-TROY and SYRACUSE. Find the ratings for the subscribing stations in the ALLACCESS.COM NIELSEN AUDIO  section after 2p (PT). 

Coming FRIDAY, MAY 22nd: FT. MYERS; DAYTON; GRAND RAPIDS; TUCSON; and TULSA.

 

Tennessee, Mississippi AMs Get New Owners

GEORGE C. HUDSON, III is selling Gospel WENR-A-W288DR/ENGLEWOOD, TN to MICHAEL R. BEVERLY for $16,800.

In other filings with the FCC, BRANTLEY BROADCAST ASSOCIATES LLC is selling Country WLEE-A-W251CN (THE HAWG)/WINONA, MS to SETH KENT's BACK FOURTY BROADCASTING, LLC for $5,000.

SOCIALIST FORUM is transferring low power WRFU-LP/URBANA, Il to URBANA-CHAMPAIGN INDEPENDENT MEDIA CENTER FOUNDATION.

And CUMULUS MEDIA's RADIO LICENSE HOLDING CBC, LLC has applied for an STA to operate KKGL/NAMPA-BOISE, ID at reduced power due to transmitter problems, and CUMULUS LICENSING LLC has filed for an extension of its Silent STA for WHBT-A/TALLAHASSEE after losing its site.

KWYD (Wild 101)/Boise To Get Fast In The Morning

ILIAD MEDIA GROUP Top 40/Rhythmic KWYD (WILD 101)/BOISE has a morning show change in the offing as ILIAD Creative Media Strategist NATHAN FAST and his wife, REBECCA take over the morning show. FAST IN THE MORNING will debut JUNE 8.

ILIAD MEDIA GROUP CEO DARRELL CALTON commented, "The breakup of syndicated BROOKE AND JUBAL, as a team, became our opportunity to invest in a local morning show on WILD 101. NATHAN and REBECCA will deliver fantastic, and entertaining local content for radio and beyond.”

Regional OM JAMES GARNER added, "If the COVID-19 experience has taught us anything, it’s the need to have local personalities who can tell the stories of our listeners in a way that no syndicated show can. NATHAN and REBECCA met in BOISE a decade ago during NATHAN’s run as a night show host, before his career took him to big league radio in cities like SAN DIEGO, LOS ANGELES, and DALLAS. Two states (and two daughters) later, their paths have brought them full-circle back to the TREASURE VALLEY to host “FAST IN THE MORNING” on WILD 101."

WILD 101 has been teasing the start of FAST IN THE MORNING with a clever billboard campaign.

(Photo: Don Day/BoiseDev)

Temple University Renews With WPEN (97.5 The Fanatic)/Philadelphia For Football, WPHT For Men's Basketball

TEMPLE UNIVERSITY Athletics and rights holder LEARFIELD IMG COLLEGE have reached agreement on four-year extensions with the OWLS' radio outlets.

Football games will continue to air on BEASLEY Sports WPEN (97.5 THE FANATIC) and men's basketball will be back on ENTERCOM News-Talk WPHT-A. HARRY DONAHUE will be back for his 19th season as play-by-play voice of OWLS football and men's basketball, with PAUL PALMER returning for his 8th season as football analyst and JOHN BAUM back for his 23rd season as men's basketball analyst.

"We're excited to continue our relationship with these two broadcast industry leaders," said TEMPLE Director of Athletics Dr. PATRICK KRAFT. "We have had a great relationship with each station and both have a broad reach that allow fans throughout the DELAWARE VALLEY to follow TEMPLE Athletics."

WRVE (99.5 The River)/Albany, NY Launches Morning Show With Local Vet Randy McCarten

iHEARTMEDIA Hot AC WRVE (99.5 THE RIVER)/ALBANY, NY, will debut "The RIVER MORNING SHOW with RANDY McCARTEN" on MAY 26th. McCARTEN, a veteran radio presence in ALBANY who was a former PD at the station, will broadcast weekdays from 5-10a (ET)

iHEARTMEDIA/ALBANY Area President KRISTEN DELANEY said, “It’s great having RANDY back. He has connected with so many listeners throughout the years and has really been the heart and soul of 99.5 THE RIVER. CAPITAL DISTRICT listeners are going to love starting their day with him.”

McCARTEN added, “THE RIVER and its listeners have been a part of my life for over 20 years, and I'm really excited to help them start their day with great music, information and entertainment – it feels great to be back."

KOAS (Jammin' 105.7)/Las Vegas Reschedules Jam-Athon As A Virtual Event

BEASLEY MEDIA Rhythmic AC KOAS (JAMMIN' 105-7)/LAS VEGAS is presenting its JAMMIN' 105-7’S JAM-ATHON as an online, virtual concert. The SATURDAY (5/23) show's net proceeds will benefit the SALVATION ARMY OF SOUTHERN NEVADA.

Ready to perform are EN VOGUE's MAXINE JONES, CECE PENISTON, LISA LISA, triple GRAMMY Winner Pastor DONNIE MCCLURKIN, DRU HILL’s SISQO, TONY TERRY, SHANICE WILSON, AZ YET's MARC NELSON, TIERRA, GARY "LIL G" JENKINS, DJ KOOL, and TROOP's JON JON. also on the show will be KEITH SWEAT, CAMEO’s LARRY BLACKMON AND ROB BASE.
 
JAMMIN' 105-7 morning personalities PACO LOPEZ and DJ THUMP will be the official emcees for the event with the help of other personalities from BEASLEY MEDIA/LAS VEGAS. more »

Green Day And Twenty One Pilots To Headline KDKB (ALT AZ 93.3)/Phoenix's Mochella Festival

HUBBARD RADIO Alternative KDKB (ALT AZ 93.3)/PHOENIX invited listeners to step into fantasy land and help the station create a two-day station music festival, "MOCHELLA" to help make up for all the summer shows canceled due to COVID-19. Listeners voted for headliners, support acts, and openers for ALT AXZ 93.3's fantasy festival "MOCHELLA."

The show will broadcast live on ALT AZ 93.3 TODAY (5/21) and TOMORROW (5/22) from noon-6p with an encore performances over MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND on SATURDAY and SUNDAY from noon-6p.

ALT AZ 93.3 APD/MD/afternooner DUSTIN CARLSON told ALL ACCESS, "It’s amazing how much fun you can have when you’re staring off the edge of a cliff not sure what the future holds. I’ve never put so much effort into faking it but can’t wait to break out the old theater of mind tricks and break every programming rule I know. This will be fun radio."

LT AZ has unveiled the daily lineup and set times. The fantasy festival will be staged as a live broadcast at the ARIZONA DUSTBOWL will be hosted by morning host MO and the ALT AZ 93.3 team with celebrity guest appearances.  MOCHELLA airs live altaz933.com.

KLQL (K101)-KQAD/Luverne, MN Raise $253,000 For Local Businesses In Radiothon

ALPHA MEDIA Country KLQL (K101) and AC KQAD-A/LUVERNE, MN raised $253,000 for local businesses in an 8a-noon (CT) radiothon on SATURDAY (5/16). The stations raised the money for the "Share the Luv Fund" to help local businesses weather the pandemic by encouraging listeners to buy gift cards, with the fund adding $25 for each $100 spent by listeners.

ALPHA MEDIA/LUVERNE GM JOEL VIS said, "The power of local radio is amazing, and the listeners and people of our community are equally amazing. What a great effort by everyone involved supporting a great cause during his difficult time."

LUVERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Director JAN WILDUNG LANPHERE added, “It’s a way to drive people to our local businesses. I don’t want people shopping on AMAZON or in SIOUX FALLS. I want them to shop here ... Special thanks to our partners who made this possible -- K101 and KQAD and the ROCK COUNTY STAR HERALD AND ANNOUNCER. And it wouldn’t have happened without the support of our generous sponsors.”

WZEW (92 ZEW)/Mobile Announces 'Home Fest' To Air Memorial Day Weekend Benefiting Sweet Relief

DOT COM PLUS Triple A WZEW (92 ZEW)/MOBILE has created HOME FEST to air THIS MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND. Starting FRIDAY MAY 22nd at 1p, 92 ZEW will broadcast nothing but previously recorded live sets from some of the biggest artists in their library all weekend long, and it will also benefit the SWEET RELIEF MUSICIANS FUND.

Station APD GENE MURRELL “We're all tired of everything being cancelled especially live music and concerts, that's why 92 ZEW created over 31 hours of nothing but great live music, including artist interviews and some ‘backstage’ acoustic performances mixed in too.”

SWEET RELIEF MUSICIANS FUND is a nonprofit charity that maintains a financial fund from which professional musicians can draw when in need of medical care or financial needs. Initially intended as a one-time CD launch benefit for VICTORIA WILLIAMS, SWEET RELIEF has evolved into a charity organization that relies on donations from artists and the public as a general fund to all professional musicians in need.

Four New Members Added To Mentoring & Inspiring Women In Radio Group's Executive Committee

Four new members have been named to the Executive Committee of MENTORING & INSPIRING WOMEN IN RADIO (MIW) GROUP. The new members are ENTRAVISION/SACRAMENTO-STOCKTON SVP/GM ANGIE BALDERAS; VKB MEDIA CONSULTING Principal VALERIE BLACKBURN; RENO MEDIA GROUP VP/GM TRICIAL GALLENBECK; and NEUHOFF MEDIA Pres./CEO BETH NEUHOFF.

Spokeswoman DENYSE MESNIK said, “Seasoned radio pros, these accomplished ladies bring expertise in a variety of areas, years of experience in leadership and well-earned reputations as some of the best in the business. They are perfect additions to the MIW Executive Committee and, not surprisingly, they’ve already hit the ground running on behalf of the MIWs! We also extend heartfelt thanks to two good friends and long-term MIW colleagues transitioning off of the Executive Committee, HEIDI RAPHAEL, Chief Communications Officer, BEASLEY MEDIA GROUP (MIW Spokeswoman from 2008-2014), and JENNIFER WILLIAMS, Vice President Digital Marketing, BEASLEY MEDIA GROUP. They leave with our immense gratitude for many years of dedication and service to the MIWs.”

KRXP/Colorado Springs Launches Sunday Service

BAHAKEL COMMUNICATIONS Alternative KRXP (RXP@1039)/COLORADO SPRINGS, CO is kicking off a new 2-hour Classic Alternative program, "SUNDAY SERVICE" from 8-10a, beginning SUNDAY, MAY 24th.

KRXP PD SHAWN ROCK told ALL ACCESS, "RXP's SUNDAY SERVICE will get you going on your SUNDAY morning with two hours of alt/punk/indie classics. Grab your coffee, kick back and time travel with the greats that alternative was built on. No talk, just the tunes."

iHeartRadio Supports Mental Health Coalition's 'How Are You, Really?' Campaign With PSAs, Half-Hour Public Affairs Show

iHEARTRADIO is supporting the MENTAL HEALTH COALITION's "How Are You, Really?" mental health awareness initiative with PSAs voiced by some of the company's high-profile morning show talents and a half-hour public affairs show, all airing during MAY, NATIONAL MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH.

The PSAs feature ELVIS DURAN, RYAN SEACREST, BOBBY BONES, and STEVE HARVEY, and the public affairs show discussing the effects of COVID-19 on mental health includes interviews with designer KENNETH COLE, CHILD MIND INSTITUTE Pres. Dr. HAROLD S. KOPLEWICZ, and NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL ILLNESS Chief Medical Officer Dr. KEN DUCKWORTH.

Find out more at howareyoureally.org.
 

Second Street Summit Goes Virtual

SECOND STREET, the audience engagement software platform, is changing its 7th annual Summit event from a two-day live conference to a free "SECOND STREET SUMMIT SERIES" virtual video conference beginning JUNE 2nd and running all month, focusing on tips to maintain and grow business during the economic downturn. Sessions will look at lead generation, recurring revenue, database growth, and email.

“Now more than ever, media companies  are leveraging promotions and email to overcome advertising declines and diversify their revenues” said President/Co-Founder MATT COEN. “We’re taking this opportunity to take our conference virtual, we're delighted to be able to share a roadmap to growth for thousands of media executives. Whether you’re a CEO or a local salesperson, you’ll find the exact content you need to give you direction and support to excel.” more »

CRB Webinar On Programming During COVID-19 Now Available To Watch

If you missed COUNTRY RADIO BROADCASTERS, INC. (CRB)’s excellent CRS360 webinar YESTERDAY (5/20) on programming during the CORONAVIRUS pandemic (or even if you caught it and want to watch it again), it’s now available to view here.

The webinar, titled “Five Things I’ve Learned: Programming During COVID-19,” featured programmers CARLETTA BLAKE (WGAR/CLEVELAND), BRENT MICHAELS (KUZZ/BAKERSFIELD) and JOEY TACK (KNCI/SACRAMENTO), each sharing five fundamental discoveries which changed their approach to listeners, communication, branding, music selection, and maintaining the right tone during the national health crisis. They also discussed what programming fundamentals may look like after COVID-19. Check it out.

Bobby Bones To Star In National Geographic Travel/Adventure Series

Radio and television personality BOBBY BONES will star in a 16-part travel/adventure series from NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC and its longtime partner, BBC STUDIOS, with the working title “Breaking BOBBY BONES.”

In each half-hour episode, BONES “travels to far-flung destinations across the country to find people with unique jobs, skills, hobbies and abilities,” according to the network’s description of the show. “Upon arrival, he meets local heroes who challenge him to conquer (or at least attempt) the tricks of their trades, living up to his mantra — Fight. Grind. Repeat. It’s an action-packed celebration of resilient Americans who work hard, play hard and above all take pride in everything they do.” more »

Big Machine Label Group Artists Join Forces For National Anthem At 'Indy 500 Special'

BIG MACHINE LABEL GROUP artists will unite for a collaborative performance of the national anthem during NBC-TV's broadcast of “INDY 500 Special: Back Home Again” this SUNDAY (5/24) at 2p (ET). The performance will include SHERYL CROW, FLORIDA GEORGIA LINE, LADY ANTEBELLUM, THOMAS RHETT, BRANTLEY GILBERT, JUSTIN MOORE, BRETT YOUNG, CARLY PEARCE, MIKE ELI of ELI YOUNG BAND, DANIELLE BRADBERY, ABBEY CONE, HEATH SANDERS, NOAH SCHNACKY, AVENUE BEAT, DAN SMALLEY and PAYTON SMITH. 

In order to adhere to social distancing guidelines, each artist recorded their part separately and submitted it to producer JULIAN RAYMOND and BMLG President/CEO SCOTT BORCHETTA, who pieced together the performances.

Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Announces Awards Of Excellence Station Of The Year Winners

The WISCONSIN BROADCASTERS ASSOCIATION completed its announcement of winners of its 2020 Awards for Excellence with THURSDAY's disclosure of the Stations of the Year.

Radio winners:

• Small Market Music Station of the Year: SPARTA-TOMAH Country WCOW-F (COW 97)/SPARTA-LA CROSSE, WI
• Small Market News and Talk Station of the Year: GOOD KARMA News-Talk WBEV-A/BEAVER DAM, WI
• Medium Market Music Station of the Year: WOODWARD COMMUNICATIONS Classic Rock WAPL/APPLETON, WI
• Medium Market News and Talk Station of the Year: SEEHAFER BRADCASTING Full Service WOMT-A/MANITOWOC, WI
• Large Market Music Station of the Year: CITY OF MONONA low power Variety WVMO-LP/MONONA-MADISON, WI
• Large Market News and Talk Station of the Year: GOOD KARMA BRANDS News-Talk WTMJ-A-W277CV/MILWAUKEE

Stabbing Westward Signs New Record Deal For First LP Release In Nearly 20 Years

Just months after releasing their first new material in 18 years, STABBING WESTWARD has signed with COP INTERNATIONAL to release the band’s upcoming fifth studio album, Wasteland, with original and legendary producer JOHN FRYER (DEPECHE MODE, NINE INCH NAILS). In JANUARY, the industrial rockers released the EP Dead And Gone with all new material. The EPs title coyly illustrates that STABBING WESTWARD is in fact neither dead nor gone, but rather ready to pick up where they left off after a string of mid-‘90s hits, including “Shame,” “Save Yourself,” “So Far Away,” and “What Do I Have to Do?,” and resulted in two Gold records. more »

Spotify’s ‘Yearbook’ Campaign Celebrates Class Of 2020 With Artist-Curated Playlists

Country star LUKE COMBS is among the artists contributing a playlist to the “SPOTIFY Yearbook” program honoring the 2020 graduates who won’t get to celebrate in the typical way due to COVID-19. Other artists curating playlists in the program that launched TODAY (5/21) include MEGAN THEE STALLION, JONAS BROTHERS and more. The artists’ actual graduation photos serve as the cover art for their respective playlists.

COMBS named his 30-song playlist “Class of Bootleggers,” and included music from artists ranging from KENNY CHESNEY and ERIC CHURCH to BILLY JOEL, SEMISONIC and POST MALONE, as well as nine of his own songs. Listen here.

KSCS/Dallas To Air ‘Party Playlist Weekend’

CUMULUS Country KSCS (NEW COUNTRY 96.3)/DALLAS will celebrate Memorial Day weekend with special programming. The “Party Playlist Weekend” kicks off TOMORROW (5/22) at 3p (CT) and runs through MONDAY night (5/25).

APD/MD and afternoon driver AL FARB tells ALL ACCESS the “flush the format” programming will feature only “uptempo, high energy, fun party songs.” They’re taking written requests here. Listen live here.

Willie Nelson To Host On SiriusXM's 'Willie's Roadhouse' Channel

WILLIE NELSON will celebrate Memorial Day weekend by hosting "WILLIE NELSON From His Roadhouse to Yours" on his exclusive SIRIUSXM channel, WILLIE'S ROADHOUSE (ch. 59). During the show, NELSON will share 10 of his all-time favorite songs and the stories behind them, including FRANK SINATRA's "Moonlight In Vermont" and PATSY CLINE's "Crazy."

“I picked out some of my favorite songs to play,” said NELSON. “It’s kinda nice to have your own channel here on SIRIUSXM and be able to hear really the kind of music I think is good. I was brought up listening to it."

The show is scheduled to air at various times throughout the holiday weekend, premiering TOMORROW (5/22) at 6p (ET). More information can be found here.

Faster Horses Festival Rescheduled for 2021

The FASTER HORSES FESTIVAL in BROOKLYN, MI has been rescheduled for 2021 as a result of COVID-19 concerns. Originally scheduled for JULY 17th-19th of this year, the 2021 version will retain the originally-booked 2020 headliners, JASON ALDEAN, LUKE COMBS and THOMS RHETT. The Country music and camping festival’s new dates are JULY 16-18, 2021.

Also on the bill for next year are: JIMMIE ALLEN, KELSEA BALLERINI, GABBY BARRETT, RUSSELL DICKERSON, GONE WEST featuring COLBIE CAILLAT, RILEY GREEN, HARDY, CHRIS LANE, TRACY LAWRENCE, DAVID LEE MURPHY, JON PARDI, CARLY PEARCE, MITCHELL TENPENNY, and DEEJAY SILVER.

All festival passes previously purchased for 2020 will be honored in 2021, and full refunds are also available during a 30-day window that begins TODAY (5/21).

Temecula Road Signs Co-Publishing Deal With JRM Publishing And Disney Music Publishing

BUENA VISTA RECORDS’ Country trio TEMECULA ROAD has signed a co-publishing deal with NASHVILLE-based boutique publishing company JRM PUBLISHING and DISNEY MUSIC PUBLISHING. 

“The talent and work ethic of TEMECULA ROAD is undeniable,” said JRM PUBLISHING owners JIMMY and SARAH ROBBINS in a joint statement. “We are so excited to get to work with TEMECULA ROAD and DISNEY MUSIC PUBLISHING.”

"We met JIMMY and SARAH on our first trip to NASHVILLE five years ago, and have since then become good friends,” said the band’s DAWSON ANDERSON. “Now that we’ve made the move here full-time, it felt natural to continue our relationship with them as they’ve watched us grow from the very beginning,” said the band’s EMMA SALUTE. “We’re so excited to be working and writing with the team at JRM,” added MADDIE SALUTE. more »

KMAJ/Topeka Adds 'Law Enforcement Today'

CUMULUS News-Talk KMAJ-A (THE BIG TALKER)/TOPEKA, KS has added the syndicated "LAW ENFORCEMENT TODAY."

The weekly show, distributed through TALK MEDIA NETWORK, is hosted by retired BALTIMORE Police Sergeant JOHN "JAY" WILEY; WILEY tells ALL ACCESS that three more affiliates are testing the show with an eye towards adding it to their lineups soon.

Reach WILEY at jay@lawenforcementtoday.com or TALK MEDIA NETWORK's JOSH LENG at  joshleng@talkmedianetwork.com and find out more at the TALK MEDIA NETWORK website.

Audio Up, NYU's Clive Davis Institute Partner For 'Occupational Therapy' Podcast

Podcast network AUDIO UP has partnered with NEW YORK UNIVERSITY's CLIVE DAVIS INSTITUTE OF RECORDED MUSIC for a new podcast, "OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY," offering inspirational stories aimed at 2020 graduates facing an uncertain future and a job market battered by the pandemic.

The show will feature professionals talking about their own careers and how they adapted to handle adversity, including CNN anchor DON LEMON, "MODERN FAMILY" co-creator STEVE LEGITAN, producer/songwriter JASON "POO BEAR" BOYD, LOS ANGELES LAKERS Center JAVALE MCGEE, "TRUE DETECTIVE" creator NIC PIZZALATO, and actor DAVID ARQUETTE; DAVIS INSTITUTE Chair JEFF RABHAN is featured in the first episode, and the teaser includes audio from the late ALAN THICKE, who sent a special recording on the eve of his passing to AUDIO UP CEO/Founder and JINGLE PUNKS co-founder JARED GUTSTADT.

RABHAN said, “I feel like we’re keepers of treasures. Everything we’ve experienced and done - music, entertainment, books, whatever it is -- we have these treasures, and if you don’t give them away, it’s the most selfish thing in the world to do. For me, sharing my approach with OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY helps broadcast my personal ethos and desire to give away whatever my life in music is worth to someone else who is hungry.”
 
“The premise of this podcast is really straightforward,” said GUTSTADT.  “OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY started as small thought -- ‘how was I going to transition from one career to the next.’ I invested so much emotionally and physically into being JINGLE JARED.  Realizing I could ask some of the best multi-hyphenate minds of our time how they achieved amazing things ended up being a great educational experience for me, one I’m happy to share with students at NYU’s CLIVE DAVIS INSTITUTE as well as whomever else wants to check it out...”
 
The show will post 20 episodes TOMORROW (5/22).

Las Vegas Review-Journal, The Mob Museum Partner For 'Mobbed Up' True Crime Podcast

The LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL and THE MOB MUSEUM are partnering for a new 11-episode true crime podcast, "MOBBED UP: THE FIGHT FOR LAS VEGAS," debuting with two episodes posting MAY 26th and posting weekly on TUESDAYS through JULY 28th. R-J podcast producer REED REDMOND is hosting the show, examining the history of organized crime in LAS VEGAS.

"Partnering with the REVIEW-JOURNAL on this podcast series was a rewarding experience and a welcome addition to THE MOB MUSEUM's focus on creating enhanced online content during its temporary closure,'' said THE MOB MUSEUM VP/Exhibits and Programs GEOFF SCHUMACHER. "Our combined resources have yielded a top-shelf production that yanks the veil off the dark history of organized crime in LAS VEGAS. This is can't-miss listening."

"The REVIEW-JOURNAL Recognizes THE MOB MUSEUM as a renowned institution that brings to life the stories that once made headlines in LAS VEGAS' largest and oldest newspaper," said REVIEW-JOURNAL Exec. Editor & SVP/News GLENN COOK. "The MOBBED UP series represents our most significant collaboration to date with the MUSEUM, and by far our most ambitious podcast project at reviewjournal.com."

Blubrry Offers Private Internal Podcasting Options

BLUBRRY has released its new Private Internal Podcasting service for businesses looking to lock down their podcasts to protect them from public distribution.

The hosting service is offering three levels of security based on three hosting plans, simple (limiting private podcasts to 50 user-seats), standard (additional security and 200 user-seats), and enterprise (500 user-seats, most secure).

BottleRock Napa Valley Announces (re)Live BottleRock Weekly Series

BOTTLEROCK NAPA VALLEY, the music festival traditionally held on MEMORIAL DAY weekend as “The First Taste of SUMMER," will kick off (re)LIVE BOTTLEROCK, a weekly virtual series of past BOTTLEROCK performances and new musical and culinary programming, on SATURDAY (5/23) at 3p (PT) on YOUTUBE LIVE. Proceeds from donations generated by the series will benefit CREW NATION and NAPA VALLEY FOOD BANK.

IMAGINE DRAGONS, MUSE, THE HEAD AND THE HEART and TASH SULTANA will appear on SATURDAY; the stream can be accessed by clicking here. Episodes will not be available to view after airing live. Future episodes will air weekly on FRIDAYS at 5p (PT). more »

Sublime With Rome To Perform MusiCares Benefit Concert On Memorial Day Weekend

SUBLIME WITH ROME will team up with MUSICARES for a virtual BBQ and full-band performance on SATURDAY, MAY 23rd at 3p (PT.) The event will stream live on nugs.tv and all profits will benefit the MUSICARES COVID-19 RELIEF FUND. Tickets to the live stream event are available for purchase here.

SUBLIME WITH ROME will be performing songs off their most recent full-length album, "Blessings," produced by ROB CAVALLO (GREEN DAY, PARAMORE, LINKIN PARK).

Andre Harrell Tribute To Air On Revolt TV, BET, iOne Digital, & Fox Soul

This SUNDAY evening (5/24), stars in entertainment, music, and fashion, will pay their last respects to ANDRE HARRELL who recently died (NET NEWS 5/9), reports REVOLT .

Rather than a traditional funeral, the former REVOLT MEDIA/TV Vice Chairman and Founder of UPTOWN RECORDS, will be honored in a commercial-free party-style broadcast at 7p (ET). The tribute called “MR. CHAMPAGNE AND BUBBLES” (one of his nicknames), will air on REVOLT TV, BET, iONE Digital Brands, and FOX SOUL; website and app included.

According to REVOLT, HARRELL’s ex-wife and co-producer of the program WENDY CREDLE said, “There is a divine message when a soul as bright as ANDRE’s -MR. CHAMPAGNE AND BUBBLES- the official life of the party, chooses to transition during a time when so many people, whose lives he touched so deeply, cannot get together to console each other, to share joy-filled stories, and to do the ‘hampty hamps’ two-step in the name of his love." more »

Former WOR/New York, KFWB/L.A., KYW/Philadelphia News Dir. Reg Laite Dies At 89

Former major market radio News Director REG LAITE passed away on MAY 12th of cancer at 89, according to obituaries at the JOURNAL NEWS (WESTCHESTER-ROCKLAND) and LARADIO.COM.

LAITE served as a reporter/editor at WBZ-A/BOSTON and WINS-A and WCBS-A/NEW YORK and later worked as News Director at KYW-A/PHILADELPHIA in 1967-70, Managing Editor/News Dir. at KFWB-A/LOS ANGELES in 1970-76, News Manager at WNBC-A-WNWS/NEW YORK in 1976, and News Dir. at WOR-A/NEW YORK in 1977-81 before finishing his career at NBC NEWS.

Father Of Indiana Radio Watch's Blaine Thompson Passes Away At 78

Condolences to INDIANA RADIO WATCH founder BLAINE THOMPSON on the passing of his father GARY BLAINE THOMPSON on MAY 17th at 78 in FORT WAYNE, IN.

The elder THOMPSON worked for NORTH AMERICAN VAN LINES and owned TNT KARTS. A celebration of life will be held later this SUMMER; Donations in lieu of flowers may be sent to the CAROL A. THOMPSON Nursing Scholarship c/o INDIANA UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION, P.O. Box 6460, INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46206 or at give.iu.edu.

If you'd like to reach out to BLAINE, just click here.

Happy Birthday

ALL ACCESS Happy Birthday wishes on THURSDAY (5/21) to ELEKTRA Head Of Digital Marketing SUZY YODER, WSIX/NASHVILLE APD/MD RYAN MCKIDDY, WXMA/LOUISVILLE PD SARAH JORDAN, VISIONARY RELATED ENTERTAINMENT's JIM MCKEON, WMEX/DOVER, NH's GARY JAMES, WKXC/AUGUSTA, GA OM/PD T. GENTRY, voiceover guy RON HARPER, programming vet CLARKE INGRAM, KOMA/OKLAHOMA CITY PD KENT JONES, KDGE/DALLAS JEFF K., WSKZ/CHATTANOOGA PD KELLY MCCOY, JS CONSULTING & PROMOTION’s JACK SATTER, ONE ON ONE SPORTS RADIO NETWORK’s DOMINIC ZUCCHERO, PROTOCOL ENTERTAINMENT’s RANDY SADD, ALTVILLE host BUZZ BRAINARD, WOGL/PHILADELPHIA MD NICKY G and to WRBT/ALLENTOWN-HARRISBURG PD NEWMAN. more »

ALL ACCESS ACTION

DAVID MCGILVRAY, AARON AXELSEN, MARNI HALPERN, AMY KAPLAN, WALTER FLAKUS, TYSON HALLER, BOBBY BONES, TEMECULA ROAD, WILLIE NELSON, LUKE COMBS, WHISKEY MYERS, CHRIS MICHAELS, BILL RICHARDS, DAN REED, PAUL MARSZALEK, YA GIRL NIKKI, DALLAS SCOTT, STEVE HEGWOOD, NESSA, NEPHEW TOMMY, SCOTT MANESS, DAVE MAZUR, ROBERT SCORPIO, RON TOLLIVER, DJ CHONZ,JAVE PATTERSON, GEORGE CAPPELLINI JR, JIMBO WOOD, SCOTT ELLIS.