Former KBKS (Hits 106.1)/Seattle PD Jared Fallon Returns To iHeartRadio As VP/Marketing

ALL ACCESS has learned that former iHEARTMEDIA Top 40 KBKS (HITS 106.1)/SEATTLE PD JARED FALLON has been named VP/Marketing for iHEARTRADIO.

iHEARTRADIO Chief Product Officer CHRIS WILLIAMS, in a company memo, said, "I’m excited to welcome the newest member of our iHEARTRADIO team, JARED FALLON. JARED joins us in the new role of VP/Marketing. JARED is here to give dedicated focus and attention on our marketing team and efforts. This will be vital as we set even more ambitious growth objectives in the coming year and beyond.  

"As VP/Marketing, JARED will help lead our day to day marketing efforts, user lifecycle marketing, organic and paid acquisition strategy, ongoing subscription efforts, provide experienced leadership for the Marketing team and serve as the digital marketing advocate across all divisions within iHEARTMEDIA. JARED will be based in NASHVILLE and will report directly to me. Our brilliant team of marketing folks are now reporting directly to their new manager. I’m thrilled to have JARED here with us to help upgrade our marketing efforts further."

WCBS-A/New York City Hall Reporter Rich Lamb Retiring

ENTERCOM News WCBS-A (WCBS 880)/NEW YORK City Hall Reporter RICH LAMB has announced his retirement. After a 50-year career, including over 40 years with WCBS-A, LAMB retires at the end of FEBRUARY.

WCBS-A Brand Mgr./News Dir. TIM SCHELD commented, "RICH is a one of a kind reporter and human being. He will be missed not just for his broadcast journalism and eloquent storytelling but RICH is a selfless friend, colleague and mentor whose influence and friendships can be seen across the NEW YORK CITY landscape in business, journalism and politics. RICH may be leaving, but he has left each one of us at WCBS 880 with something to help us carry on his legacy." more »

Strategic Solutions Research Presents Nielsen Audio Holiday '20 & Fall '20 Books Released Today

NIELSEN AUDIO HOLIDAY '20 MONTHLY PPMs are out TODAY for WASHINGTON, DC; BOSTON; DETROIT; MIAMI; SEATTLE; PHOENIX; SAN DIEGO; MINNEAPOLIS; TAMPA; ST. LOUIS; DENVER; and BALTIMORE. Plus, FALL '20 Books for AMARILLO, TX; BRYAN COLLEGE STATION, TX; CAPE COD, MA; COLUMBUS, GA; FREDERICK, MD; LUBBOCK, TX, ODESSA-MIDLAND, TX; REDDING, CA; SHEBOYGAN, WI; TERRE HAUTE, IN; TRAVERSE CITY, MI; TRI-CITIES, WA; and WACO, TX. Find the ratings for the subscribing stations in the ALLACCESS.COM NIELSEN AUDIO section after 2p (PT). 

Coming THURSDAY, JANUARY 28th: PORTLAND, OR; CHARLOTTE; PITTSBURGH; SACRAMENTO; CINCINNATI; CLEVELAND; SALT LAKE CITY; SAN ANTONIO; LAS VEGAS; KANSAS CITY; COLUMBUS, OH; and ORLANDO. Plus, FALL '20 for BISMARCK, ND; HARRISONBURG, VA; JACKSON, TN; RAPID CITY, SD; SAN ANGELO, TX; SIOUX CITY, IA; SIOUX FALLS, SD; and WICHITA FALLS, TX.

Changes At McKibbin Media Group/Michigan

MCKIBBIN MEDIA GROUP announced TUESDAY (1/26) that DENNIS WORDEN is the new GM for the group, which owns radio stations in HILLSDALE and JACKSON, MI.

GORDON was most recently Sr. Dir./Communications for NASCAR’s DARLINGTON RACEWAY in SOUTH CAROLINA. He succeeds JAMIE MCKIBBIN, who passed away in NOVEMBER 2020.

In other changes, MCKIBBIN MEDIA GROUP announced KATINA MCKIBBIN has assumed the role of President of the company, while JARED HAMMOND, PD/Production Director of CHR WKHM (K-105.3)/JACKSON, MI, is upped to OM of the company’s JACKSON cluster. BRIAN BELENBACH is upped to Local Sales Manager of the JACKSON stations. 

Veteran Manager Justin Becker Launches New Firm, Murmuration

NEW YORK-based artist manager JUSTIN BECKER has launched a new management firm, MURMURATION, featuring a roster of present clients including ALEX LAHEY, BAYONNE, OKKERVIL RIVER, SONDRE LERCHE and TIFF MERRITT. 

Commented BECKER, “This past year has given all of us much to reflect upon. Many times, I found myself returning to the occurrence of birds in MURMURATION, and how an individual’s behavior, when done with purpose, has the ability to scale and create real impact. It’s in that spirit that I’m excited to begin 2021 with the creation of a new management company built upon this foundation. I look forward to exploring new opportunities to further grow and develop the careers of my artists alongside the support of their dedicated partners and teams.” more »

MIW Group's 'Mildred Carter Mentoring Program' Application Window Extended Through Feb. 5th

The MENTORING & INSPIRING WOMEN IN RADIO (MIW GROUP) has moved its application window for the 2021 MILDRED CARTER MENTORING PROGRAM through FRIDAY,  FEBRUARY 5th.  Established in 2002, the MIW’s heritage annual mentoring initiative connects mentees with accomplished women recognized as leaders, mentors, and game-changers within all aspects of radio broadcasting.  

Four candidates from the radio broadcasting industry - within the sales, marketing, programming, and digital disciplines - will be selected for the 2021 program. For mentee criteria, and instructions on how to apply, please go here   

ENTERCOM VP/National Partnerships LINDSAY ADAMS, chair of the mentoring program and a 2009 Mentee, says, “The MIW’s MILDRED CARTER MENTORING PROGRAM has been instrumental in providing guidance, leadership, and bridging connections within the industry.  From personal experience, I can attest It’s an invaluable experience that helps shape and curate career paths and potential.”

MIW Group National Spokeswoman RUTH PRESLAFF added, “The MILDRED CARTER MENTORING PROGRAM is the cornerstone of the MIW mission. Many thanks to all who make this possible, including JINNY & JOHN LADERER, SUSIE HEDRICK and the VCREATIVE team for their generous contribution to sponsor this year’s class and to the dedicated volunteer Mentors who give of their time and expertise.”

The Latest Merge: The Clubhouse App Has It Going On

"As many of us know, audio is a very special medium. So, here comes CLUBHOUSE, a voice-only social media app, like no other," commented MERGE author and LORI LEWIS MEDIA President LORI LEWIS.

"CLUBHOUSE is a destination to learn, share, and ask questions. It can be used for building community, connections and contributions to others."

Read more about why "The CLUBHOUSE App Has It Going On" in MERGE, which is designed and written to help assist the radio and record industry in the social and digital space. Reach out to LORI LEWIS, here.

more »

This Week In All Access' Women To Watch; Charese Fruge Talks To Singer/Songwriter Brynn Elliott

In this week's ALL ACCESS "WOMEN TO WATCH" column, MC MEDIA Principal CHARESE FRUGE talks to up-and-coming singer/songwriter BRYNN ELLIOTT.  She's just dropped her new ATLANTIC RECORDS single, "TELL ME I'M PRETTY" to Hot AC and scored the 3rd MOST ADDED song this week in MEDIABASE. The single is accompanied by a 'period piece' video that you can watch here.  

The HARVARD grad, like every other artist misses being on the road and performing her music for whomever will listen.  ELLIOTT fondly looked back at one of her favorite road experiences, remembering “One of the most exciting things I’ve done as an artist was play this pop-up show in a coffee shop once in DENVER.” “I was passing through and wanted to see if I could connect with some fans, and as I say I’m quite a new artist, so I really wasn’t expecting a lot of people to come. Like I seriously thought there would be 5 people there. But I put it out on social media and 60 people showed up at this coffee shop that day in DENVER. It was just exciting to me to be able to connect with my fans spontaneously like that and I hope to do a lot more of that in the future. I am a huge seeker of spontaneous experiences.”     

In ALL ACCESS' "WOMEN TO WATCH," CHARESE FRUGE gets meaningful insights from women in all facets of our businesses, from radio to records to singer/songwriters.  Her latest with BRYNN ELLIOTT is here.

Billy Bob's Texas, Scott McCreery Donate To ACM Lifting Lives

TRIPLE TIGERS RECORDS artist SCOTTY McCREERY played a limited capacity show at BILLY BOB'S TEXAS in FORT WORTH on SATURDAY, JANUARY 23rd, with $1 of every ticket sold donated to ACM LIFTING LIVES, the philanthropic arm of the ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC dedicated to improving lives through the power of music with health programs and hardship services.
 
With the help of McCREERY and his fans, $2,100 was donated. BILLY BOB'S TEXAS has partnered with ACM LIFTING LIVES twice since 2017, working with Country artists KANE BROWN and MIDLAND to raise money for the cause. 
 
Said BILLY BOB'S TEXAS GM MARTY TRAVIS, “We were thrilled at the opportunity to work with SCOTTY McCREERY and partner with such an incredible and important organization again.” 
 
Added McCREERY, “I love having an opportunity to help a great cause like ACM LIFTING LIVES, and doing it while performing at a legendary venue like BILLY BOB's TEXAS is an added bonus.” 

Said ACM LIFTING LIVES Executive Director LYNDSAY CRUZ, “We are immensely grateful to both SCOTTY McCREERY and BILLY BOB'S TEXAS for their generous contributions to ACM LIFTING LIVES. BILLY BOB'S has been a great partner in the past, and it was an honor to have their continued support during SATURDAY’s show. We look forward to using the donation to continue to support those in need in the Country music community.”  
 
Before the show, BILLY BOB'S TEXAS presented McCREERY with an oversized check showcasing the donation.

The Kinkead Entertainment Agency Signs Skip Ewing

THE KINKEAD ENTERTAINMENT AGENCY has signed singer/songwriter SKIP EWING for exclusive booking representation. EWING recently released his 12-song album, "WYOMING."

“Life has come full circle in many ways for me over this past year,” said the agency's head, BOB KINKEAD. “I started working with SKIP in 1987-88, and we became the best of friends. We even learned martial arts together. We had great success together in those early years as agent/artist, and now my team and I will conquer the live space with SKIP and his new music. Here at TKEA we are very excited to be working with SKIP and we can’t wait to see what the future brings all of us.” more »

Voiceover Specialist Joe Earl Williams Adds WMRX (Sunny 97.7)/Beaverton, MI

JOE EARL WILLIAMS adds voiceover and branding duties for STEEL BROADCASTING Adult Standards WMRX (SUNNY 97.7)/BEAVERTON, MI.

WILLIAMS commented, "Thrilled and humbled that ‘MRX PD BRAD MORGAN trusts me to brand his station. Grateful……"

WILLIAMS is exclusively repped by HOSS & HOSS MANAGEMENT GROUP. Reach out at hoss@hossmgmt.com and/or (646) 300-0037.

Duran Duran Celebrates 40th Anniversary On SiriusXM, Pandora

SIRIUSXM and PANDORA launched two new talk and music programs for 2021 that delve into the music, career, and influence of DURAN DURAN's 40-year career.. 

"DURAN 40" on PANDORA features the band’s biggest hits and fan favorites from across their career, gathered in a new original format merging music and talk. The show will be hosted by the BBC’s CLAUDIA WINKLEMAN, and is available exclusively via PANDORA starting JANUARY 28th, with broadcast versions airing on SIRIUSXM’s VOLUME  (channel 106) and FIRST WAVE (channel 33).

DURAN frontman SIMON LE BON will host WHOOOSH! beginning JANUARY 27th at 9p (ET) exclusively on SOROISXM’s VOLUME.  WHOOOSH! is a weekly music show featuring LE BON chatting and playing some of his favorite records including new discoveries. He is joined by DURAN insider and band associate KATY KRASSNER as they discuss their latest song obsessions and new music that excites them. WHOOOSH! first debuted on DURAN DURAN’s website in 2020, and now moves exclusively to SIRIUSXM with all new programs in 2021 airing on the Volume channel and as a new podcast.  more »

Happy Birthday

ALL ACCESS Happy Birthday wishes on WEDNESDAY (1/27) to WARNER RECORDS’ PETER STANDISH, LOOSE CANNON President DR. DAVE FERGUSON, former WWPW/ATLANTA’s P.K., KRRL/LOS ANGELES’ BOOTLEG KEV, former KBKS-KPWK/SEATTLE PD JUSTIN RILEY, former SVPP/JACKSON, MS TODD BERRY, IN2UNE MUSIC SVP/Promotion-Rock DAVE LOMBARDI, WPDH/POUGHKEEPSIE, NY PD STEVEN SHIMER, WMSI/JACKSON, MS PD RICK ADAMS, WHYI/MIAMI's AL CHIO, KYLD/SAN FRANCISCO’s JOSE MELENDEZ, former WKLB/BOSTON APD/MD GINNY ROGERS, WKLQ/GRAND RAPIDS PD MICHAEL GREY, former RCA’s BARRY GRIFFIN, RADIO ONE/WASHINGTON D.C. Prod. Dir. LUIS HERNANDEZ, WYTE/WAUSAU-STEVENS POINT PD JOHN HARRY, WTMX/CHICAGO’s ERIC FERGUSON, WIRK/WEST PALM BEACH’s TIM LEARY, former WWKL/HARRISBURG’s RYAN “DJ PUFF” DOWNES, WRTB/ROCKFORD MD JOSEPH PITT, WMMR/PHILADELPHIA MD and WMGK-WMMR Digital PD SARA PARKER and to former iHEARTMEDIA/SARASOTA SVPP EDDIE RUPP. more »

Research Director, Inc. Presents Exclusive Holiday 2020 PPM Analysis For New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, S.F., Dallas

The Ratings Experts from RESEARCH DIRECTOR, INC. – along with our partners in data from XTRENDS – bring you bonus, extended coverage of the HOLIDAY survey. In normal times – remember those? – we would be waxing on about how Santa so thoroughly dominated the standings that others were left to weep and wonder. However, this particular survey featured an interesting twist. In order for NIELSEN to align the survey calendar, they extended this book to five weeks. So, it began on 12/3 and concluded on 1/6. A full five weeks of ratings gold. It also meant the stations flogging the holiday hits were in the moment for twenty-three of the thirty-five days. What did that mean? Let’s find out … more »

Sam Selolwane & Keith Rothschild Named Heads Of Promotion At RCA

RCA RECORDS announced TODAY (1/26) new leadership for the promotions’ teams appointing SAM SELOLWANE and KEITH ROTHSCHILD both Heads of Promotion.

SELOLWANE will oversee the Hip Hop, R&B and Mixshow formats, while ROTHSCHILD will oversee the Pop, Rhythm and Rock formats.  Both will individually report to the company’s COO JOHN FLECKENSTEIN.

FLECKENSTEIN commented, “SAM is a passionate, forward thinking leader who is a fierce advocate for our artists. She is universally respected by both her peers and RCA family alike. KEITH is a seasoned pro who has made an immediate impact at RCA with his relentless drive and strong head for strategy.  Together they represent a bold and progressive future for our RCA Promotion teams.” more »

Greg Marella Is Elevated To President/Promotion & EVP/Capitol Music Group

CAPITOL RECORDS has promoted GREG MARELLA to President/Promotion & EVP/Capitol Music Group by Chairman & CEO JEFF VAUGHN.

MARELLA will continue to oversee the planning and execution of promotion strategies for the company’s portfolio of labels. In his broader CMG EVP role, he will help strategize and navigate CMG’s future course as a key member of VAUGHN’s executive management team. MARELLA is based in HOLLYWOOD in the iconic CAPITOL TOWER. 

Under MARELLA, his promotion team has generated more than 40 #1 singles across all genres in the last two years, alone. Recent #1s include hits by HALSEY, LEWIS CAPALDI, LIL BABY, KATY PERRY, SAM SMITH, NIALL HORAN, MIGOS, MARSHMELLO, QUEEN NAIJA and MAGGIE ROGERS, to name only a few, as well as the latest #1 smash, “Lemonade,” from INTERNET MONEY. 
 
VAUGHN said, “GREG’s elevation to President of Promotion reflects the impressive track record of breaking hit records he and his team have built over the past several years. GREG has a keen understanding of how promotion strategy fits into the larger picture of artist development, and he will play a key role in shaping our company’s future as a member of our executive management team. I know everyone at the TOWER joins me in congratulating GREG on this well-deserved promotion.”
 
MARELLA commented, "I’m incredibly proud to be leading a promotion team that is so passionate and committed to advocating for our artists and music that are the heart and soul of CMG. The company is in great hands with JEFF and MICHELLE [JUBELIRER, CMG President & COO] at the helm, and I’m excited and committed to helping our company reach new heights as a member of the executive management team.” 

Formerly EVP/Promotion for three years at KEMOSABE RECORDS, MARELLA came to CMG in 2016. Prior to that he was in Senior Promotion posts at INTERSCOPE-GEFFEN-A&M and MCA RECORDS for 16 years, launching his career at PRIORITY RECORDS in 1995 as West Coast Regional Dir./Promotion. MARELLA has been involved with the successful careers of such notables as IMAGINE DRAGONS, MAROON 5, LADY GAGA, JUICY J, MARY J. BLIGE, K-CI & JOJO and BLINK 182 during his 25-year career prior to joining CMG.

KSFM/Sacramento Brand Mgr. Michael Buhrman Adds KUDL (106.5 The End) Programming Duties

ENTERCOM Top 40/Rhythmic KSFM/SACRAMENTO Brand Mgr. MICHAEL BUHRMAN adds Brand Mgr. responsibilities for clustermate Top 40/Mainstream KUDL (106.5 THE END). BUHRMAN succeeds former Brand Mgr./morning co-host TIM "RAYNE" RAINEY, who has left the station.

ENTERCOM/SACRAMENTO SVP and Market Manager STACEY KAUFFMAN commented, "MICHAEL’s years of experience and successful track record make him the natural choice to bring his expertise and leadership to an already outstanding KUDL team. His passion, energy, creativity and optimism will serve both brands extremely well into the future."

BUHRMAN added, "I am truly humbled and honored for the opportunity and privilege to take on the amazing set of call letters of KUDL here in SACRAMENTO. To be able to drive KSFM and KUDL is not a responsibility I take lightly, and I thank STACEY KAUFFMAN, JOE CALGARO [ENTERCOM/SACRAMENTO OM], DOUG ABERNATHY [ENTERCOM Regional Pres. and Market Manager] and PAT PAXTON [ENTERCOM Chief Programming Officer] for this amazing opportunity." more »

REPORT: WCNN-A/W229AG-FM 93.7 (93.7/680 The Fan)/Atlanta's Sandra Golden Exiting

The ATLANTA JOURNAL-CONSTITUTION's RODNEY HO is reporting that DICKEY Sports WCNN-A/W229AG-FM 93.7 (93.7/680 THE FAN)/ATLANTA morning co-host SANDRA GOLDEN is leaving the station after 10 years. GOLDEN's last day will be FEBRUARY 19.

THE FAN's morning show will continue minus GOLDEN with JOHN MICHAELS and BRIAN FINNERAN.

Letter To President Biden, Live Event Industry Offers Venues As COVID-19 Vaccination Sites

In a letter to President BIDEN, live event leaders AEG, BANDIT LITES, BROADWAY LEAGUE, INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE OF THEATRICAL STAGE EMPLOYEES (IATSE), INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF VENUE MANAGERS (IAVM), LIVE NATION, THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MUSIC MERCHANTS (NAMM), the NATIONAL INDEPENDENT TALENT ORGANIZATION (NITO), the NATIONAL INDEPENDENT VENUE ASSOCIATION (NIVA), OAK VIEW GROUP (OVG), and WE MAKE EVENTS formally offer their venues, staff, and expertise to the COVID-19 vaccination effort. The pandemic has fully shuttered live event operations, leaving venues empty and the furloughed crowd-management oriented staff who operate them eager to help out and get back to work. more »

The 2021 Billboard Music Awards Set To Air Sunday, May 23rd

DICK CLARK PRODUCTIONS and NBC will air the “2021 BILLBOARD MUSIC AWARDS” on SUNDAY, MAY 23rd at 8p (ET)/5 (PT).

"For nearly 30 years, the BBMAs have celebrated music’s greatest achievements, honoring the hottest names in music today," according to PR materials. "Unique among music awards shows, honorees are determined by performance on the BILLBOARD charts." The annual live broadcast showcases performances, collaborations and pop culture moments.

Kim Gordon Joins WLS-A/Chicago As Afternoon News Anchor

CUMULUS MEDIA News/Talk WLS-A/CHICAGO has appointed KIM GORDON as Afternoon News Anchor. GORDON joins following a 15-year broadcast journalism career with crosstown WGN-A.

WLS-A PD STEPHANIE TICHENOR said, “Finding the facts and reporting the news has never been an easy job. Doing it in this environment hasn’t made it any easier. You need experience and grit to craft a meaningful, accurate newscast and KIM GORDON has both of those qualities in spades. I’m delighted to have KIM join our 890 WLS-A News Team as the PM Drive Anchor. Her attention to facts and detail will enhance our news product and yes, she can probably teach JOHN HOWELL a thing or two about golf.”

GORDON commented, “I am thrilled to be joining the WLS news team and to be working with JOHN HOWELL in the afternoons. It’s an honor to follow in the footsteps of JOHN DEMPSEY. I’ve long admired his integrity and passion for news. I hope to continue that legacy at WLS.”

Strategic Solutions Research Presents Nielsen Audio Holiday '20 & Fall '20 Books Released Today

NIELSEN AUDIO HOLIDAY '20 MONTHLY PPMs are out TODAY for NEW YORK; LOS ANGELES; CHICAGO; SAN FRANCISCO; DALLAS; HOUSTON; ATLANTA; PHILADELPHIA; NASSAU-SUFFOLK; RIVERSIDE-SAN BERNARDINO; SAN JOSE; and MIDDLESEX-SOMERSET-UNION. Plus, FALL '20 Books for BEND, OR; CEDAR RAPIDS, IA; CHICO, CA; DULUTH-SUPERIOR, MN; FARGO-MOREHEAD, ND; FLORENCE, SC; GRAND FORKS, ND-MN; LAREDO, TX; ST. CLOUD, MN; WATERLOO-CEDAR FALLS, IA; WINCHESTER, VA; and YAKIMA, WA. Find the ratings for the subscribing stations in the ALLACCESS.COM NIELSEN AUDIO section after 2p (PT). 

Coming WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 27th: HOLIDAY '20 MONTHLY PPMs for WASHINGTON, DC; BOSTON; DETROIT; MIAMI; SEATTLE; PHOENIX; SAN DIEGO; MINNEAPOLIS; TAMPA; ST. LOUIS; DENVER; and BALTIMORE. Plus, FALL '20 for ABILENE, TX; COLUMBIA, MO; EAU CLAIRE, WI; GRAND ISLAND-KEARNEY, ND; JOPLIN, MO; LA CROSSE, WI; MONROE, LA; PANAMA CITY, FL; PARKERSBURG-MARIETTA, WV-OH; ROCHESTER, MN; and WHEELING, WV.

Cape Cod FM, Texas AM Sold

DUNES 102FM LLC (DUNES RADIO) is selling Classic Hits WGTX (102.3 THE DUNES)/TRURO, MA (CAPE COD) to GCJH, INC. for $180,000 plus a $20,000 advertising credit for MEWS RESTAURANT.

In other filings with the FCC, HISPANIC OUTREACH MINISTRIES, INC. is selling Spanish Religion KXOI-A (RADIO ALABANZA)/CRANE-ODESSA, TX to HISPANIC FAMILY CHRISTIAN NETWORK, INC. for $200,000.

RADIO BORINQUEN, INC. is selling Spanish News-Talk WBQN-A-W221EL/BARCELONETA-MANATI, PR to WIFREDO G. BLANCO-PI for $150,000.

FAMILY-LIFE MEDIA-COM, INC. is selling Classic Hits WTYM-A-W279DN (103.7 THE RIVER)/KITTANNING, PA to LIGHTNER COMMUNICATIONS LLC for $70,000 plus an LMA before closing. more »

Joseph Abboud Joins The Weekend WABC-A/New York Lineup

Fashion designer JOSEPH ABBOUD is joining the lineup at RED APPLE MEDIA News-Talk WABC-A/NEW YORK beginning SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6th at 5p as the host of "Threads," a one-hour lifestyle radio program that looks at fashion and design. 

ABBOUD will explore the evolution of one of the most creative industries on the face of the earth, and how it weaves through our culture and our lives.

Workers Unite Against Radio Automation At KALW/San Francisco

During the global pandemic, SAN FRANCISCO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT KALW (Radio 91.7) has removed announcing staff and replaced them with automation. On TUESDAY, JANUARY 26th, KALW staff, radio hosts, and unionized musicians from across the nation will speak out at the San Francisco Unified School District board meeting via ZOOM to bring back local on-air talents.

 
“Automation has resulted in embarrassing technical glitches, such as long stretches of dead air, the wrong programs being broadcast, and programs accidentally being repeated. Automation means the reduction of live-hosted programs and live music performances which have been an important hallmark of KALW’s programming,” said KALW Announcer and SEIU 1021 member JOANN MAR. more »

Sourav Nayak Joins Soundstripe As VP/Finance

SOUNDSTRIPE, a provider of unlimited, royalty-free music, stock video, and sound effects, has hired SOURAV NAYAK as VP/Finance. He will be responsible for overseeing the company’s financial strategy, capital raising, product pricing, financial planning and analysis, and treasury, reporting to co-founders and Co-CEOs MICAH SANNAN and TRAVIS TERRELL.

“Growing almost 5,000% in three years and landing in the INC. 2020 Top 5 fastest-growing private media companies was a huge accomplishment and a wild ride, and at the same time, has really highlighted the need for a strong leader over our financial team who is familiar with handling this kind of exponential growth,” said MICAH SANNAN. “With 20 years of experience in corporate finance and investments, investment banking, financial strategy, and capital raising verticals for high-growth industries, TRAVIS [TERRELL] and I knew SOURAV was the right person to support SOUNDSTRIPE as we continue to find new ways to build our creative community.” more »

Audionamix Taps Music Adviser Cory Sims, Launches New Music Business Services Initiative

AUDIONAMIX (ADX), an AI-driven audio isolation company hires CORY SIMS, an experienced music licensing expert and tech advisor to establish new relationships in the music business for ADX. SIMS comes from years of experience working with music licensing, music creation, artist management, and music technology. He will be speaking at both CES and NAMM this month representing ADX. 

“CORY’s expertise in both sync licensing and music technology makes him the perfect liaison between our best-in-class AI stemming solutions and the needs of the music industry,” explains AUDIONAMIX GM/NORTH AMERICA ELLIE MCNEIL. “We remain committed to offering the most powerful AI algorithms exclusively as custom solutions for content owners.” more »

Independent Broadcasters Association (IBA) Endorses Radio Workflow

Since JULY 2020, the INDEPENDENT BROADCASTERS ASSOCIATION (IBA) has been testing workflow systems for traffic, billing, and production. RADIO WORKFLOW has been selected as the “Software of Choice”  to fully integrate all operations of broadcast operations of any size. It seamlessly connects sales, traffic, billing, and the on-air product to manage all internal operations of the broadcast company but also to eliminate common mistakes that result in lost billing. YIELD MANAGEMENT is currently being integrated.

“The endorsement by the INDEPENDENT BROADCASTERS ASSOCIATION is exciting and humbling at the same time”, said RADIO WORKFLOW, INC. President/co-owner ROBERT MASCHIO. “We work tirelessly to exceed the needs and expectations of broadcasters, both small and large, worldwide. This recognition by the ASSOCIATION is meaningful to RADIO WORKFLOW and supports the endorsement of broadcasters who have achieved a better product, at a reduced cost, with our integrated platform”. more »

Sony Music Names Jessica Shaw SVP/Sync Licensing For Commercial Music Group

SONY MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT's COMMERCIAL MUSIC GROUP has promoted JESSICA SHAW to SVP/Sync Licensing for the division. 

SHAW will serve as Head of the SONY MUSIC SYNCSHIP, the centralized sync licensing team housed within the COMMERCIAL MUSIC GROUP, and lead CMG’s sync-related creative and licensing activities across all entertainment media, including film, television, commercials, video games and emerging new media. She will focus on driving SONY MUSIC’s sync licensing priorities and developing a range of new sync opportunities in support of the company’s frontline labels, international repertoire and legendary back catalog of recordings and visual content. more »

'Our American Stories' Taps Greg Moceri For Strategy And Content Development

AMERICAN PRIVATE RADIO adds programming consultant and former COX COMMUNICATIONS Chief Programming Consultant GREG MOCERI as "Our American Stories"  Strategy and Content consultant. The nightly program is now heard on over 300 stations nationwide. 

AMERICAN PRIVATE RADIO CEO and host LEE HABEEB, said, "We're thrilled to have GREG as a part of the team. We've long admired his well-earned standing in the business, his ability to help stations and talent be better versions of themselves, and his all-around excellence and cheerfulness, too. He is already making a real difference."

MORCERI added, "I have always been about content. "Our American Stories" exemplifies this. Uplifting, wonderful stories about our nation's most connecting and emotionally gravitating people in our amazing past and present.. Just uplifting daily reminders, from people you may know, and people you don’t. A perfect antidote to division, politics and the anger of day. Honored to be part of this brand and product."

For more information on "Our American Stories" and market availability click here. 

Warner Music Group’s Jessica Goldenberg Appointed To SoundExchange Board

SOUNDEXCHANGE adds WMG VP/Digital Strategy & Business Development JESSICA GOLDENBERG to its board of directors. 

“JESSICA’s expertise, experience, and values will be tremendous assets as our board and company help drive the modernization of the music industry,” said Pres./CEO MICHAEL HUPPE “Her understanding of how technology is changing the industry, and the business and legal complexities that transformation brings, is invaluable. We’re fortunate to have her as a member of the SOUNDEXCHANGE board.” 

Interscope Geffen A&M Signs Deal With Adam Mersel's Immersive Records

INTERSCOPE GEFFEN A&M has signed a joint venture with ADAM MERSEL’s IMMERSIVE RECORDS label. MERSEL is best known as a manager of GRAMMY, EMMY and TONY AWARD-winner BEN PLATT.

He previously helped guide BEBE REXHA to diamond-certified status and worked closely with such artists as SARA BAREILLES and ROBIN THICKE.

The first release under the new deal is the debut single from LILHUDDY (aka CHASE HUDSON) who is the star of MACHINE GUN KELLY’s recent "Downfalls High" musical film experience. "21st Century Vampire," the debut single, was co-written with LILHUDDY along with NICK LONG, JAKE TOREEY and ANDY SELTZER.  more »

Fred Jacobs Asks, 'Will Super Bowl LIV Be All That Super?'

JACONS MEDIA Pres. FRED JACOBS points out on his recent blog post, "On paper, this year's SUPER BOWL matchup looks pretty good. True, neither team hails from a Top 5 market like NEW YORK or L.A. And we really don't have a storied NFL franchise in the game, like the PACKERS or PATRIOTS.

"But we do have a classic battle of quarterbacks, each representing the past and future of the league. KANSAS CITY's PATRICK MAHOMES is 25 years-old and is already playing for his second consecutive trophy.

"On the other end of the spectrum, TOM BRADY – the ageless wonder – suits up with his new team, the TAMPA BAY BUCS in a quest for his record seventh SUPER BOWL win. (He currently holds the record with six of those gaudy rings.) At 43 years-old, BRADY is breaking millions of NEW ENGLAND hearts with his new team."

Read the full post here.

WEQX/Albany, NY Launches 'Clean Jams' Specialty Show On Thursday Nights

NORTHSHIRE COMMUNICATIONS Alternative WEQX/MANCHESTER, VT-ALBANY, NY has teamed with OLD MILL ROAD MEDIA to launch "CLEAN JAMS," a new one-hour specialty show on THURSDAY evenings at 11p, hosted by BENJAMIN LERNER. The weekly program will spotlight Rap, Hip-Hop, and Recovery. LERNER is a VERMONT-based Composer, Writer, Classical Pianist, and Recovery Advocate. The show debuts JANUARY 28th.  

In addition to Sober Rap & Hip-Hop music, each episode includes a guest interview with a health professional, musician, politician, lawyer or other recovery partner, discussing addiction and sobriety.  VERMONT’s Health Commissioner, DR. MARK LEVINE is the first guest.  

“I am very excited for CLEAN JAMS,” explains LERNER. “WEQX is a powerful platform and amazing opportunity for community outreach and continued efforts to make a difference in the opioid epidemic. I am grateful and humbled.”

Matt Signore Named Porter's Call Board President, Launches New Company

FRANKLIN, TN-based nonprofit PORTER's CALL, which is celebrating 20 years of offering free counseling and support to touring recording artists, has appointed MATT SIGNORE as the next President of its Board of Directors. The 30-year music industry executive was most recently COO of WARNER MUSIC NASHVILLE until his departure in DECEMBER (NET NEWS 7/1/20).

In addition to taking on this appointment, SIGNORE is launching SEMPRE COSI, an independent venture focused on mentoring executives and artists, while helping companies develop their people strategy.

“When I met MATT four years ago, we became instant pals," said PORTER'S CALL Exec. Dir./Founder AL ANDREWS. "During the course of our friendship, I saw his deep love and concern for artists. As he assumes the role of Board President, he arrives at a time where his years of experience of leadership in the music industry and his heart for artists coincides with our need to grow. In order to meet the growing number of artists needing help during these difficult and unprecedented months, we are honored to have him lead the way. In addition, we will be having more Italian meals at board functions.” more »

HARDY is Most Added With 'Give Heaven Some Hell'

Congratulations to BIG LOUD's HARDY, who earned 38 MEDIABASE new adds this week for his single, "Give Heaven Some Hell," making it the most-added record in Country radio this week. The single has a total of 43 adds to date.

Kudos to BIG LOUD VP/Promotion STACY BLYTHE, Dir./National Promotion ALI MATKOSKY, National Dir./Radio Marketing KENNY JAY, Dir./SOUTHEAST Promotion TYLER WAUGH, Dir./NORTHEAST Promotion NIKKI WOOD, Dir./WEST COAST Promotion DAVE KIRTH, Dir./MIDWEST Promotion JOHN D'AMICO, Dir./SOUTHWEST Promotion BRITTANI KOSTER, Coord./Promotion SARAH HEADLEY and Coordinator/Data & Research GIULIANA "G" MIGNONE. more »

Warner Chappell Music Nashville Signs Priscilla Block To Publishing Deal

WARNER CHAPPELL MUSIC (WCM) NASHVILLE has signed PRISCILLA BLOCK to a global publishing deal. BLOCK rose to fame on social platform TIKTOK, which led to a record deal with MERCURY NASHVILLE and INDENT RECORDS (NET NEWS 9/23/20). Her debut single, "Just About Over You," impacted radio last OCTOBER, and is currently climbing the MEDIABASE Country chart.

“What struck me and RYAN [BEUSCHEL, WCM NASHVILLE VP/A&R] when we met PRISCILLA was her perseverance and her unapologetic and honest take on songwriting," said WCM NASHVILLE President/CEO BEN VAUGHN. "She’s an original artist with a point of view and a legion of loyal fans already behind her. Watch out world.” more »

Clear Media Network Adds New Hip-Hop Format To Offerings

DALLAS-based CLEAR MEDIA NETWORK has added a new hip-hop music format to their current 24/7 radio network. programmed by MARK McCRAY, .

“We realized very quickly that no one in the market is offering a quality 24/7 HIP HOP music format,” he said. “We believe our dynamic programming, experience and passion for the hip-hop genre and format will set us apart and give us a very competitive market position”.

McCRAY is an award-winning PD and OM in the Urban/Top 40 Rhythmic radio market, including Adult R&B. He brings 30-years of broadcast and programming experience from ABC, CBS , REACH MEDIA, and RADIO ONE. MARK previously led programming operations in DALLAS, HOUSTON, ST. LOUIS, AUSTIN and WEST PALM BEACH, FL

Added COO GARY SPURGEON, “There is no one more experienced and knowledgeable than MARK when it comes to hip-hop and Top 40/Rhythmic programming. The addition of hip-hop to our current slate of 10 formats, will only enhance our market position, make us more competitive, and help those radio operators looking for a hip-hop format alternative.”.

For more information on how to become an affiliate with CLEAR MEDIA NETWORK, contact GARY SPURGEON at (972).674.3100 or gary@clearmedianetwork.com.

Andy Meadows To Launch Multi-Format 'Playlist FM' In April

Radio consultant ANDY MEADOWS will launch four new music radio formats -- Hits, Country, Hip Hop and Rock -- under his new PLAYLIST FM brand on MONDAY, APRIL 5th. Watch the launch trailer here. 

Station affiliates will get a custom daily music log, imaging voice and production, weekly video content for their websites and social feeds, daily blog posts, user and artist generated content, network prizes and more for a $2,000 monthly affiliate fee. Multi-format and multi-station discounts are available. On-air talent can be added for an additional fee. Those interested can also opt into the revenue sharing program where PLAYLIST FM sells the inventory online and provides 100% of the creative. Affiliate stations can adopt the PLAYLIST FM branding, or keep their own and add "A PLAYLIST FM station" as a secondary positioner. They may also sign up for a digital content only partnership, which still has the option for the revenue sharing program.  more »

Todd Starnes Picks Up Two More Affiliates

MIDRIVERS BROADCASTING KCPS/Burlington, IA and KLMB/ROUNDUP-BILLINGS, MT are the newest TODD STARNES News & Commentary affiliates. 

The short form feature is broadcast on more than 800 radio stations. Contact dalton@starnesmediagroup.com to carry the show.

Congrats To All Access' Dave & Donna Hoeffel On The Birth Of Their First Grandchild, Silas

ALL ACCESS sends big love and huge congrats to ALL ACCESS EAST COAST Top 40 Editor DAVE HOEFFEL and his wife DONNA on the birth of daughter CLAIRE's first child, SILAS, making them first-time grandparents.

SILAS is the son of CLAIRE and dad RYAN BARNES, and he was born YESTERDAY, (1/25) at 4:20p (ET) and weighed in a healthy 7lbs & 12ozs. Mom, Dad and SILAS are all happy, and DAVE & DONNA are looking at YOUTUBE videos as reminders on how to diaper a baby, again. Send your congrats to DAVE & DONNA, here!

Trey Songz Arrested At AFC Championship Game In Kansas City

Artist TREY SONGZ was arrested SUNDAY (1/24) at the AFC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME in KANSAS CITY featuring the KANSAS CITY CHIEFS and the BUFFALO BILLS.

During the game, at ARROWHEAD STADIUM, SONGZ ended up in a tussle with officers from the KANSAS CITY PD. SONGZ reportedly was not following COVID-19 safety protocols while in the stadium. SONGZ spent the night in custody and was released in the morning pending further investigation.

KSHB-TV/KANSAS CITY has more here.

Legendary Beatles Animator Ron Campbell Passes At 81

RON CAMPBELL, a legendary animator who worked on both THE BEATLES' "Yellow Submarine" and "The SATURDAY Morning BEATLES Cartoon Series," as well as dozens of SATURDAY animations, has passed away at the age of 81.

CAMPBELL’s career began In 1958 with cartoons such as "Popeye," "Beetle Bailey" and "Krazy Kat" in his native AUSTRALIA. His career spanned the entire golden age of SATURDAY morning cartoons, lasting 50 years. He retired in 2008 with the show "Ed, Edd, n Eddy."

Making cartoon features was something RON had dreamed of since he was six years old when he learned that the shorts of "Tom & Jerry" that he saw in the theaters were only drawings. He was amazed that he could make drawings that could come to life….and that was it. He said he never woke up a day in his life and thought…damn I have to go to work.

Some of the many cartoons in which CAMPBELL had his hand in include "Scooby-Doo," "Smurfs," "Rugrats," "Flintstones," "Jetsons," "Yogi Bear," "Winnie the Pooh," "Cool McCool," "Sesame Street," "The Big Blue Marble," "George Of The Jungle," "Super Chicken," "Tom Slick," "Captain Caveman" and "Harlem Globetrotters," among many others., 

After his retirement in 2008, RON wanted a second act in life so he started creating paintings based on the cartoons that he was involved in (much like animator CHUCK JONES, who did this in his retirement a generation before ). As he started touring the U.S., visiting art galleries and meeting the audience that grew up with his cartoons, RON realized something that never occurred to him at the time…..the incredible impact that cartoons had on the audience. 

If anyone is interested in a hand-signed RON CAMPBELL giclee, contact SCOTT SEGELBAUM at scott@rockartshow.com or (610) 389-1807. 

Wendy Leeds Passes

Condolences to the family and friends of music industry veteran WENDY LEEDS. Husband STEVE and daughter KATIE shared that her death was brought on by complications of COVID-19 following a struggle with MS for over 30 years.
 
Born in ABERDEEN, MD, WENDY LEEDS was a longtime resident of HAWORTH, NJ. After graduation from SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY, her career in broadcasting began at WXLO/NEW YORK, working with BARRY MAYO. WENDY was then appointed MD at WPIX/NEW YORK, where she converted the station to smooth jazz outlet WQCD, and served as PD. She subsequently worked for WNEW-A and MUSIC CHOICE.
 
In addition to her husband STEVE, an executive at SIRIUSXM/PANDORA, and her beloved daughter KATIE, an associate director at THE ORCHARD, WENDY is survived by her mother MARILYN SILVERSHEIN, and brothers GREG (ANDREA) and BILLY (DEBBIE). Wendy is also survived by her brother-in-law, artist manager HARVEY LEEDS (NANCY), as well as seven nieces and nephews. Due to COVID regulations; graveside services will be held privately at MOUNT JUDAH CEMETERY. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in honor of WENDY LEEDS to the MS Clinic at HOLY NAME HOSPITAL in TEANECK, NJ. 

Gabby Barrett And Cade Foehner Welcome Baby Girl

WARNER MUSIC NASHVILLE/WAR's GABBY BARRETT and husband CADE FOEHNER welcomed their baby girl, BAYLAH MAY, last week (1/18), and just revealed her birth. The couple, who wed in OCTOBER 2019 (NET NEWS 10/7/19), met as contestants on season 16 of ABC-TV's "AMERICAN IDOL."

"Gotten to spend a very sweet week with our newest addition," BARRETT posted on her INSTAGRAM page. "Meet our girl BAYLAH MAY FOEHNER 1.18.21." 

Happy Birthday

ALL ACCESS Happy Birthday wishes on TUESDAY (1/26) to S-CURVE/BMG Head Of Pop Promotion LEE LEIPSNER, HOWARD ROSEN PROMOTION’s HOWARD ROSEN, iHEARTMEDIA/DALLAS' STACIE CLARK, WMHK/COLUMBIA, SC APD MIKE WESTON, W&B BROADCASTING owner RENE BELL, MCVAY NEW MEDIA's DAN HALYBURTON, former KPLX/DALLAS’ HOLLYWOOD HENDERSON, KLAL/LITTLE ROCK APD ED JOHNSON, THE WALL STREET JOURNAL RADIO NETWORKS' KEN MARTIN, KUBL/SALT LAKE CITY PD TRAVIS MOON, WBAM/MONTGOMERY's JOHN NORRIS, ALBANY BROADCASTING/ALBANY OM JON REILLY, former KASH/ANCHORAGE’s BILL STEWART, VALORY MUSIC’s DON GOSSELIN, MEI YOUNG VOICEOVERS Pres. MEI YOUNG, WPOW/MIAMI’s OMAR JANNOUN, former KQRA-KOSP/SPRINGFIELD, MO OM/PD KRISTEN BERGMAN, WDZH/DETROIT's SID JONES, former WNDV/SOUTH BEND PD KAREN RITE, WWWZ-WMGL/CHARLESTON, SC KATHY BROWN, former WHCN/HARTFORD’s DAVID FISCH and to NEUHOFF/SPRINGFIELD, IL OM JOSH ROBERTS. more »

ALL ACCESS ACTION

MATT STEVENS, JENNIFER LISS, DAN PEARSON, JAMES HOWARD, MAYNARD, JANA SUTTER, MIKE O'REILLY, JOE GREENWALD, GARRETT CAPONE, JORDAN ALAMAT, JEFF MORAD, ALLAN BENEDICT, PRISCILLA BLOCK, MATT SIGNORE, ANDY MEADOWS, LINDSAY ELL, HARDY, GABBY BARRETT & CADE FOEHNER, RORY FEEK, MIKE MARRONE, RICH ROBINSON, JACK BARTON, ELLIE SANDERS, ORLANDO DAVIS, NANCY BARROW, SHADY SPENCER, KRISTINA KAGE, GLENN AURE, ELROY SMITH, KEN JOHNSON, BRIAN JONES, SAM SELOWANE, LIL J, STEVE NELSON, MATT CARTER, ELIAS CHIOS, ROB GOLDKLANG, LISA SONKIN.