Taylor Swift, The Weeknd, Justin Bieber, Dan + Shay Win Big At American Music Awards

TAYLOR SWIFT was named ARTIST OF THE YEAR at the 48th AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS, which took place last night at the MICROSOFT THEATER in LOS ANGELES, carried live on ABC. THE WEEKND and RODDY RICCH had topped the list of nominees going into the show with eight apiece, while MEGAN THEE STALLION had five.

The DICK CLARK PRODUCTIONS show, which took place just two days before TUESDAY's announcement of nominees for next year's 63rd GRAMMY AWARDS and a few days after the LATIN GRAMMY AWARDS, was held amid strict coronavirus restrictions before a very limited audience. TARAJI P. HENSON, star of the TV show, "Empire," as music executive "Cookie Lyon," hosted the festivities with plenty of enthusiasm, even doing her own dance number.. more »

The iHeartMedia RIF Now Into A Fourth Week, So Please Keep These Pros In Mind

As we enter week #4 of the iHEARTMEDIA RIF, we are all hoping that this takes a pause as THANKSGIVING approaches.

ALL ACCESS will continue to post this list with the most recent additions at the top and then moving them to the longer, more permanent list. This includes those who have lost their jobs as iHEARTMEDIA retools its management, content creation, promotion, marketing, podcasting, digital teams, sales and engineering staffs preparing for the future and to keep step with a WFH environment due to the COVID-19 pandemic and changing staffing needs on its many on-going initiatives.

With THANKSGIVING this week, let's all keep these folks in mind. Even if you don't have a job for them, letting them know that you are thinking of them is very important, hence this list. Please, call or email them. more »

Warner Music Group Reports Q4 And Full-Year Financials

WARNER MUSIC GROUP has released its fourth-quarter and full-year financial results for the periods ended SEPTEMBER 30th.

“We’re proud of everything we’ve accomplished in the past year, despite the challenging conditions that the world has faced. We’re essentially flat against a record-breaking prior year and, during the quarter, we grew 11% on an as-reported basis, excluding the revenue streams most impacted by COVID,” said CEO STEVE COOPER. “We’ve had huge successes from global megastars and local hitmakers, breakout sensations and long-time legends. Our streaming growth has stayed strong, and we’ve also seen an acceleration in a whole spectrum of emerging revenue streams such as social media, gaming, and in-home fitness. In this increasingly complex environment, where music is woven into every aspect of our lives, our creative expertise and global reach are more valuable than ever.” more »

Simon Robson Named Pres./International, Recorded Music For Warner Music Group

SIMON ROBSON has been appointed to the role of Pres./International, Recorded Music for WARNER MUSIC GROUP. Overseeing the company’s operations outside the U.S. and U.K., he will be based in LONDON and report to Global CEO/Recorded Music MAX LOUSADA.

LOUSADA said: “In most places on the planet, domestic music is increasingly important and influential. At the same time, we have the power to ignite worldwide careers out of almost any territory. Music travels faster and more fluidly than ever. Simon’s worldwide perspective and dynamic expertise will be invaluable as we invest in our global growth, accelerate our drive into emerging markets, and build a ‘one WARNER’ platform for talent. He has an impressive track record of curating a roster of local artists with global potential, cultivating new audiences for our worldwide superstars, and fostering a culture of collaboration, openness, and creativity.” 

ROBSON added: “Our business is more international than ever, with incredible music coming from all parts of the globe. I’m looking forward to helping build our local rosters, foster artistic pollination across territories, and develop long-term, global careers for our artists. The paths to international success are multiplying rapidly, and it’ll be fantastic to work with Warner’s talented leadership around the world, many of whom I’ve already had the pleasure of knowing over the years. I’ve learned so much from my time in Asia, I’m delighted to be taking on this exciting new role, and I’m hugely ambitious for our artists, our people, and our future.” 

Exclusive Mediabase Analysis From All Access

Industry insiders receive ALL ACCESS' exclusive MEDIABASE chart recap analysis in their e-mail box every MONDAY morning. How about you? This week's data from ANTHONY ACAMPORA, Partner MUSICRUNCH/RADIOCRUNCH and MEDIABASE Charts Consultant:

Top 40: 24kGoldn, Iann Dior Set New Single Week Spin Record; Ava Max Runner Up; Bieber/Chance Top 5; Kane Brown/Khalid/Swae, Ariana Top 10

* 24KGOLDN spends a 5th week at #1 with "Mood," featuring IANN DIOR, and another 363 spins to 20126 spins - setting a new single week spin record
* AVA MAX is the runner up with "Kings & Queens," climbing 3*-2*, up 1737 spins
* JUSTIN BIEBER and CHANCE THE RAPPER are top 5, moving 6*-5* with "Holy," up 1039 spins
* KANE BROWN goes top 10 with "Be Like That," featuring KHALID & SWAE LEE, motoring 11*-7* and is +409 spins
* ARIANA GRANDE has another top 10 hit with "Positions," up 12*-10* and +1484 spins
* Three songs enter the top 15 led by "Laugh Now Cry Later" by DRAKE featuring LIL DURK, moving 16*-13* and +660 spins
* SAM SMITH jumps 17*-14* with "Diamonds" at +671 spins
* CHRIS BROWN X YOUNG THUG go 18*-15* with "Go Crazy," up 755 spins
* BILLIE EILISH is top 20 in her second week, soaring 34*-19* and is +2864 spins
* ZOE WEES also hits the top 20 with "Control," up 21*-20*
* SHAWN MENDES & JUSTIN BIEBER score the top debut at 37* with "Monster" with 1573 spins
* LIL NAS X, JOJI, and MALUMA X THE WEEKND also debut more »

Strategic Solutions Research Presents Nielsen Audio November '20 PPMs Released Today

NIELSEN AUDIO PPM NOVEMBER '20 MONTHLY results arrive TODAY for NEW YORK; LOS ANGELES; CHICAGO; SAN FRANCISCO; DALLAS; HOUSTON; PHILADELPHIA; ATLANTA; NASSAU-SUFFOLK; RIVERSIDE-SAN BERNARDINO; SAN JOSE; and MIDDLESEX-SOMERSET-UNION. Find the ratings for the subscribing stations in the ALLACCESS.COM NIELSEN AUDIO section after 2p (PT).

Coming TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24th: WASHINGTON, DC; BOSTON; DETROIT; MIAMI; SEATTLE; PHOENIX; SAN DIEGO; MINNEAPOLIS; TAMPA; ST. LOUIS; DENVER; and BALTIMORE.

No New Station Sale Transactions In FCC Database Monday Morning

No new station sale transactions appeared in the FCC database MONDAY morning (11/23).

Applying for STAs were FUCHS RADIO L.L.C.  (KTIJ/ELK CITY, OK, temporary operation at reduced power after storm damage); CSN INTERNATIONAL, INC. (KCIF/HILO, HI, reduced power to get station back on the air before license expires); and SOUTH FLORIDA FM INC. (WDVS-LP/MIAMI, reduced power at new site pending approval of construction permit).

Filing for Silent STAs were ROBERT CUMMINGS TOOLE (KBCK-A and KQRV/DEER LODGE, MT and K257AF/BUTTE, MT, owner ill) and LONG AVENUE BAPTIST CHURCH (WDBW-LP/PORT ST. JOE, FL, antenna damage).

Requesting extensions of its Silent STA was iHEARTMEDIA's CLEAR CHANNEL BROADCASTING LICENSES, INC (W240EG/EDEN, NC, interference issues).

And LINFIELD COLLEGE has closed on the donation of noncommercial Classical KSLC/MCMINNVILLE, OR to ALL CLASSICAL PUBLIC MEDIA, INC. The donee has been programming the station as a simulcast of Classical KQAC/PORTLAND, OR since APRIL 2nd.

WCSX/Detroit Presents 6th Annual ‘People Helping People’ Campaign

BEASLEY MEDIA GROUP's Classic Rock WCSX/DETROIT is presenting The 6th Annual "People Helping People" campaign in an effort to assist families in Metro DETROIT who are facing challenges during the holidays.

NOW through FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11th, listeners are being asked to nominate families in need on the air and at WCSX.com. WCSX-FM’s BIG JIM’s HOUSE Morning Show hosts will share requests they receive on behalf of needy families and connect them with the appropriate donors, whether it’s an individual or a business. 

"We have a saying on the show that no one can help everyone...but EVERYONE can help someone," said BIG JIM from WCSX’s BIG JIM’s HOUSE. “That's the mindset behind 'People Helping People.'”

Concord Taps Brian Egan As EVP/Strategic Planning And Advancement

BRIAN EGAN appointed CONCORD's EVP/Strategic Planning and Advancement reporting to CFO BOB VALENTINE. He will lead projects focused on industry analysis, competitive assessments and long-term planning. He will also be responsible for finding and analyzing strategic investment opportunities and potential acquisitions working with CONCORD’s Chief Business Development Officer, STEVE SALM.

“BRIAN has a deep understanding of CONCORD’s businesses and possesses a vast set of unique skills and experience, all of which makes him the perfect executive for this new position,” commented CONCORD CEO SCOTT PASUCCI. “Great things are on the horizon for CONCORD and we are happy to have BRIAN’s expertise to help in shaping that future." more »

Entercom and Ad Council Partner On 'Coping-19' Mental Health PSA Campaign

ENTERCOM partners with AD COUNCIL to provide exclusive audio production, including bilingual assets for the "COPING-19," a national public service advertising (PSA) campaign. In conjunction with the CDC, the CDC FOUNDATION, The HHS, and the WHITE HOUSE, this effort is to raise awareness and provide information and resources to help people experiencing mental health challenges during the pandemic. 

“ENTERCOM is dedicated to supporting the health and success of the communities that are the heart of our business,” said ENTERCOM VP/Social Impact SARAH HARRIS. “With so many Americans struggling with mental health, we are delighted to use the reach of our platform to share helpful self-care and coping tips with our 170 million listeners and so many more in partnership with the AD COUNCIL. We know talk is a powerful tool in the struggle for mental health, and are committed to using our voice to break the stigma and help people find the resources they need to thrive.” more »

WNOR & WAFX/Norfolk Collect Over 1.1 Million Meals For Local Foodbanks

SAGA Active Rock WNOR & Classic Rock WAFX (106.9 THE FOX)/NORFOLK, VA set a new record of 1,101,822 meal donations during the "FM99 & 106.9 THE FOX 24th Annual Mayflower Marathon Food Drive" which took place at four locations in the area from 5:30a (ET) on FRIDAY NOVEMBER 20th until 3p (ET) on SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22nd. 

All food and monetary donations collected in VIRGINIA BEACH and SUFFOLK went to the Foodbank of SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINA and the EASTERN SHORE, and all donations made at the HAMPTON and TABB locations went to the VIRGINIA PENINSULA Foodbank.

WNOR & WAFX Brand Manager MIKE BECK said, "In the most challenging year ever for the Foodbanks, our listeners and client partners donated enough money and food to create more than 1.1 Million meals for people in HAMPTON ROADS. 'The 24th Annual FM99 and THE FOX Mayflower Marathon' is a great example of the teamwork and hometown spirit of HAMPTON ROADS. Our thanks to the volunteers, organizations, client partners, and the thousands of people who made this event another huge success." more »

Three Exit WTEM (The Team 980 & 95.9)/Washington As Entercom Takes Over

Two hosts and the PD have left URBAN ONE Sports WTEM-A-W240DJ (THE TEAM 980 & 95.9)/WASHINGTON as the station awaits its takeover by ENTERCOM in an LMA on MONDAY (11/23).

Midday "THE BRIAN MITCHELL SHOW" and afternoon "THE STEVE CZABAN SHOW" co-host SCOTT LINN tweeted FRIDAY that he has exited the station after 27 years:

Quick announcement: after almost 27 years at WTEM, I am a free agent. I've been beyond lucky to do something that I really love with people I love. I wish the best for my friends going forward. #staysafe more »

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WNNX (Rock 100.5)/Atlanta Morning Duo Suspended

RODNEY HO writes in THE ATLANTA JOURNAL-CONSTITUTION that the morning show duo of JASON BAILEY and “SOUTHSIDE” STEVE RICKMAN on CUMULUS Classic Rock WNNX (ROCK 100.5)/ATLANTA were suspended this week after they made insensitive jokes MONDAY on their broadcast.

HO reports, "The joke was basically that RICKMAN would be fine allowing a famous person to take advantage of his child purely for the settlement money. It was part of a segment about how much money the estates of dead famous people make that aired around 9a MONDAY."

Here is the transcript:

RICKMAN: “If MICHAEL JACKSON was still alive and I met him, I would let my kid go stay with him just so I could sue him later. Just you know.”

BAILEY: “You’d be OK with your child being traumatized for the rest of his life in order for you to have a payday correct?”

Alpha Media To Bring Nick Cannon And Dana Cortez To San Antonio, Portland And Amarillo

ALPHA MEDIA has expanded its WE format in SAN ANTONIO and AMARILLO, TX, and PORTLAND, OR to feature SKYVIEW NETWORKS’ nationally syndicated programs, NICK CANNON RADIO and THE DANA CORTEZ SHOW. Under this new agreement, these shows will anchor mid-days and afternoons in three of WE’s lineups as ALPHA further deepens its strong community connection with listeners, offering engaging and entertaining content built around highly rated, must-listen benchmarks. 

Earlier this year, SKYVIEW NETWORKS launched NICK CANNON RADIO on weekdays and weekends to stations across the US. As a comedian, musician and host of AMERICA’s most-watched TV show, THE MASKED SINGER, NICK CANNON is one of the top entertainers in media. On Friday, NICK commented, “Greetings SAN ANTONIO! We are excited and grateful that you’ll now be joining my PORTLAND and AMARILLO families as we continue to grow the WE brand across ALPHA MEDIA stations. Stay tuned and much love!”   more »

WRRV-WRRB/Poughkeepsie-Hudson Valley, NY Ups Taylor Dickson To Brand Mgr.

TOWNSQUARE Alternative WRRV-WRRB/POUGHKEEPSIE-HUDSON VALLEY, NY promotes TAYLOR DICKSON to Brand Manager/PD. She will also be moving from morning drive to afternoon drive, following the completion of the FALL 2020 book. DICKSON replaces BILL DUNN, who had been with WRRV since 2004 and became Brand Mgr. seven years ago. 

Prior to WRRV, TAYLOR was APD/MD/afternoons at former Hot AC WCZX. She moved to WRRV for mornings at the start of 2020 and recently added Assistant Digital Manager duties.

TAYLOR said, "Becoming a Program Director has been a major career goal of mine. To be programming my favorite format is all the more exciting. I’m grateful to have so many mentors and supporters help me get to where I am today. Ready to hit the ground running!"

In an email to staff, Market Pres. JASON FINKELBERG said, “Over the last 3 years, TAYLOR has proven to be successful in everything she’s been asked to do and we are confident in her ability to lead [W]RRV into the future." 

Vanessa Hale Lands Middays At KLLC (Alice@97.3)/San Francisco

ENTERCOM Hot AC KLLC (ALICE@97.3)/SAN FRANCISCO welcomes VANESSA HALE for middays, effective immediately. HALE most recently held down afternoons at then-Top 40 former sister station WODS/BOSTON, until the format flip there to Adult Hits this past JUNE.

ENTERCOM/SAN FRANCISCO Sr.VP/Market Mgr GREG NEMITZ said, “I’m happy to welcome VANESSA HALE back to the airwaves to join ALICE’s impressive slate of on-air talent. Her passion for her craft and willingness to engage with her audience will translate to a dynamic midday program for our listeners as they move through their days.”

HALE observed, “I’m super excited to be back with ENTERCOM and couldn’t ask to be a part of a better team. ALICE is a legendary station with amazing talent and I’m honored to join the lineup."

HALE began her on-air career doing weekends at iHEARTMEDIA Alternative KYSR/LOS ANGELES, before landing her first full time job, hosting afternoons at Top 40 KHTH/Santa Rosa.  

Muserk Expands Partnerships With JASRAC And SGAE

The music and video rights management company MUSERK, has expanded their relationship with JAPAN’s largest musical copyright administration society, the JAPANESE SOCIETY FOR RIGHTS OF AUTHORS, COMPOSERS AND PUBLISHERS (JASRAC), and SPAIN’s largest society, the SPANISH SOCIETY OF AUTHORS AND PUBLISHERS (SGAE). Under the new, multi-year agreement, MUSERK will collect JASRAC’s & SGAE’s U.S.-based mechanical rights across all digital platforms.

Additionally, MUSERK will manage all Notice of Intent (NOI’s) for offline (physical) exploitation in the U.S. (previously handled by the Harry Fox Agency) and handle all of JASRAC’s and SGAE’s data management and collections via The Mechanical Licensing Collective (MLC) – including work registrations, dispute management, data analysis and unmatched work as well as residual calculations and payment. more »

KVOQ (Indie 102.3) Promotes Bruce Trujillo To APD

COLORADO PUBLIC RADIO Triple A KVOQ (INDIE 102.3)/DENVER has announced the promotion of BRUCE TRUJILLO to APD. TRUJILLO has been an on-air host with COLORADO PUBLIC RADIO since 2016 and most recently served in the role of Promotions Coordinator.

INDIE 102.3 PD WILLOBEE CARLAN said, “I am thrilled to elevate BRUCE to APD. She has proven to be a linchpin in our team wearing many hats and helping to lead us into the next decade growing our audience and connection to our community. TRUJILLO’s passion and skillset are great assets to both the station and COLORADO.

TRUJILLO said, “I'm proud to be a part of INDIE 102.3. We have the challenge and privilege of being a part of a community that has no shortage of great non-commercial radio stations across the dial -- the challenge, of course, is finding what those sounds and voices are that aren't being represented on air here in COLORADO; the privilege is being a part of an already revered organization, COLORADO PUBLIC RADIO.”

TRUJILLO has over 14 years of radio experience in COLORADO. First at COLORADO MESA UNIVERSITY’s student run KMSA and later at KAFM/GRAND JUNCTION, CO.

WWCD/Columbus, OH Returns On The Radio Dial As CD92.9

WWCD LTD. Alternative WWCD (CD102.5)/COLUMBUS, OH returned to the airwaves as "CD92.9," replacing TSJ Classic Hits WMYC-A-W225CS (MY 92.9)/COLUMBUS this past SATURDAY (11/21). The WMYC-A call letters will be changed to WWCD.

Beginning JANUARY 1st, WWCD will also simulcast on DELMAR COMMUNICATIONS' WDLR-A-W225CM/DELAWARE, OH, with the former Classic Hits MY 92.9 simulcast replacing Classic Rock on WQTT-A-W244DV/MARYSVILLE, OH. Three weeks ago, WWCD (CD102.5) temporarily moved online only when the 30-year independently owned Alternative station was unable to reach an agreement with the owner of the FCC license (NET NEWS 11/2). more »

Jingle All The Way, Radio Ready For The Christmas Holidays

THANKSGIVING week kicks off with the pandemic and the economy heavy on the minds of Americans. The CDC says don't travel this year. At best, travel by car if necessary and celebrate in small groups.

Millions of Americans won't see their families at a time when being grateful for health and happiness are necessary. Radio stations across the country are sympathetic and rushing to bring the CHRISTMAS spirit to the masses sooner rather than later. The number of stations flipping from their original formats to All-CHRISTMAS before the THANKSGIVING holiday continues to grow.

If your stations are flipping that All Santa Switch, send us the details, here. more »

John Clayton Returns To KIRO-A (710 ESPN)/Seattle

A week after being let go from his weekday show at BONNEVILLE Sports KIRO-A (710 ESPN SEATTLE)/SEATTLE (NET NEWS 11/13), PRO FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME writer and commentator JOHN CLAYTON has returned to the station to continue his daily football analysis segments, and his SATURDAY morning show will return for 8-11a (PT).

CLAYTON, the longtime football insider and former ESPN commentator, will be back to appear at 7:15a  with DANNY O'NEIL and PAUL GALLANT and 4p with BOB STELTON and DAVE WYMAN, and he will also be back writing for the stations' website and hosting his "SCHOOLED WITH THE PROFESSOR" podcast as well as serving as sideline reporter for SEATTLE SEAHAWKS radio game broadcasts.

Talk Media Network Launching 'Caravan To Midnight With John B. Wells' For Weeknight Syndication

JOHN B. WELLS is taking his paranormal talk show to weeknights, as the weekly "ARK MIDNIGHT" host launches "CARAVAN TO MIDNIGHT WITH JOHN B. WELLS" into syndication for MONDAY-FRIDAY 10p-midnight (ET) via TALK MEDIA NETWORK beginning DECEMBER 1st. WELLS has been hosting "ARK MIDNIGHT" on SATURDAY nights since 2016.

WELLS said, "The nightly show launch is like coming home in a way. Over the air radio is where I started. It's my first love. It's immediate, demanding and therefore really exciting. Every show is a canvas waiting for the oil. Great radio is art, and I treat every episode as such... One night a week on radio with ARK MIDNIGHT was just the beginning of something much bigger. Our fans can't get enough, our affiliates want more, and quite frankly... talk radio needs this program to thrive at night in the New Year and beyond."

TALK MEDIA NETWORK CEO JOSH LENG said, "In just over seven months, fifty radio stations have signed on as ARK MIDNIGHT affiliates. The demand for JOHN B. WELLS-hosted programming by radio stations is undeniable. CARAVAN TO MIDNIGHT WITH JOHN B. WELLS will be a destination program in weeknights."

Find out more at TalkMediaNetwork.com.

Morgan Wallen Hits #1 With 'More Than My Hometown'

Congratulations to BIG LOUD RECORDS' MORGAN WALLEN, who hit the #1 spot on the MEDIABASE Country singles chart this week with his current hit, “More Than My Hometown.”

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 »

Karen Tallier Joins Quartz Hill Records As Dir./Streaming, Digital Marketing & Brand Strategy

QUARTZ HILL RECORDS has added LOUDMOUTH ENTERTAINMENT owner KAREN TALLIER to its team as Dir./Streaming, Digital Marketing and Brand Strategy. TALLIER will focus on creating and executing streaming, digital media and digital marketing initiatives for the NASHVILLE-based label, as well as overseeing social media, contesting and brand relations for the label and its artists. Her position is effective immediately. Congratulate her here.

TALLIER has 20 years of experience in the music industry, including 17 years as owner of LOUDMOUTH ENTERTAINMENT. Additionally, she has served as the VP of Media/Marketing for STREAMSOUND RECORDS, and began her career in publicity at RCA LABEL GROUP. more »

UMG Nashville And Musicians On Call Partner For Virtual Concert

Nonprofit MUSICIANS ON CALL (MOC) and UNIVERSAL MUSIC GROUP (UMG) NASHVILLE are partnering for the "I'm On Call for TENNESSEE" virtual concert, available to healthcare facilities statewide for patients and staff to enjoy throughout DECEMBER through MOC's "Virtual Beside Performance Program." The concert will be hosted by LAUREN ALAINA and feature performances by DARIUS RUCKER, JON PARDI, MADDIE & TAE, PRISCILLA BLOCK and KYLIE MORGAN. Since MARCH, more than 75,000 people have experienced live music through the "Virtual Bedside Performance Program."

Additionally, UMG NASHVILLE is partnering with MOC for an exclusive, online auction with all proceeds benefiting MOC's programs. Beginning TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1st, fans can bid on personalized guitars and autographed memorabilia from DIERKS BENTLEY, ERIC CHURCH, SAM HUNT, GEORGE STRAIT and KEITH URBAN here. more »

BMG And Southern Word Partner For 'Music Industry & Culture Fellowship'

BMG and nonprofit SOUTHERN WORD have launched the "MUSIC INDUSTRY & CULTURE (M.I.C.) YOUTH FELLOWSHIP" aimed at engaging NASHVILLE area college and high school youth in the music industry and having critical conversations about music culture. Five M.I.C. fellows will train in both nonprofit and music administration over the course of 24 weeks, putting their learning into action by developing and tracking their own music projects and supporting SOUTHERN WORD’s community programs and events. In addition to building skills as artists, this fellowship program provides youth the tools to create, manage, market and track the projects they produce in a way that develops transferable skills for any career path. more »

WBWL/Boston Raises Over $38,000 For St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

iHEARTMEDIA Country WBWL (101.7 THE BULL)/BOSTON and WBTS-TV (NBC10)/BOSTON's "One Night Only" broadcast special brought in over $38,000 to benefit ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL. The broadcast took place on SATURDAY (11/21), and featured performances by OLD DOMINION, MAREN MORRIS, KELSEA BALLERINI, JON PARDI, BRETT ELDREDGE, JIMMIE ALLEN and LAUREN ALAINA (NET NEWS 11/10). WBWL's COLTON BRADFORD, AMANDA JO and JESSICA hosted the show, along with special guest host CHRISSY METZ.

“I couldn't be more proud of my talented friends who made this project a reality,” said BRADFORD. “Being allowed the platforms of two powerhouse media organizations to create an uplifting and entertaining show for families across NEW ENGLAND to enjoy safely from home, while benefitting and highlighting the kids, families and research being done at ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL, is undoubtedly the peak of 2020 for all involved. We have much to be thankful for and celebrate this week.”

Concord Music Enters Creative Venture With Hillary Lindsey, Adds GM And First Signee

NASHVILLE-based CONCORD MUSIC PUBLISHING has entered into an exclusive, creative venture, HANG YOUR HAT MUSIC, with award-winning songwriter HILLARY LINDSEY. The venture focuses on jointly signing and developing a new generation of songwriting talent.

Serving as GM/EVP of HANG YOUR HAT MUSIC is JAKE GEAR, who previously worked with LINDSEY at BMG as Sr. Creative Dir. Prior to his time at BMG, GEAR was Creative Director for independent NASHVILLE-based publisher SEA GAYLE MUSIC. Throughout his career, he has worked with Country artists including BLAKE SHELTON, DIERKS BENTLEY, JAKE OWEN, LUKE BRYAN, JASON ALDEAN, KENNY CHESNEY and MORGAN WALLEN, among others. In his new role, he will focus on pitching songs, heading up the creative direction and developing writers, artists, and staff for HANG YOUR HAT MUSIC.
 
Signing on as the first songwriter/musician is CHRIS LACORTE. He most recently worked with SAM HUNT on his "SOUTHSIDE" album, and has collaborated with other artists including ADAM SANDERS, CASH CAMPBELL and JOHN GURNEY, among others. more »

Country Star Jon Pardi Ties The Knot

Congratulations to CAPITOL NASHVILLE artist JON PARDI and hairstylist SUMMER DUNCAN, who wed at SADDLE WOODS FARM in MURFREESBORO, TN, on SATURDAY (11/21) night. The wedding, rescheduled from an earlier date in MAY due to the ongoing pandemic (NET NEWS 4/1), was downsized to just immediate family and close friends.

PEOPLE.com reports that the couple chose PARDI’s “yet-to-be-released song ‘Look At You’ for their first dance as a married couple. PARDI wrote the tune for DUNCAN this past JUNE in CALIFORNIA and recorded it earlier this month.”

DUNCAN posted two wedding photos on INSTAGRAM (below), writing, “Best day of my life.” more »

Bad Bunny Tests Positive For Covid-19

BAD BUNNY, real name BENITO MARTÍNEZ OCASIO, has tested positive for COVID-19. BAD BUNNY won two AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS last night (11/22). He won Favorite Latin Male Artist and for Favorite Latin Album.

The PUERTO RICAN singer was set to perform at the AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS but was a late scratch. He did present the award for Favorite Latin Female Artist, although remotely.

WIRK/West Palm Beach Raises More Than $11K During Food Drive

HUBBARD RADIO Country WIRK (NEW COUNTRY 103.1)/WEST PALM BEACH, FL morning hosts TIM LEARY and CHELSEA TAYLOR and the rest of the station staff raised more than $11,000 from listeners for their annual “Friends Feeding Friends Food Drive,” which wrapped on SATURDAY (11/21) evening. The day-long event surpassed its $10,000 goal despite the challenges of being hosted remotely, with the hosts broadcasting from their homes due to the current pandemic and LEARY’s recent COVID-19 diagnosis (NET NEWS 11/16).

“‘Friends Feeding Friends’ has been a signature event for WIRK for 15 years, and TIM & CHELSEA were determined to not let 2020 make it a casualty,” said WIRK OM/PD BRUCE LOGAN. “So even though the event changed to a virtual event, and TIM was in COVID-19 quarantine, they were on the air for 12 hours on SATURDAY. The people of the PALM BEACHES came through with more than $11,000! So proud of this team for pushing through a lot of obstacles to do a lot of good for the hungry [of] WEST PALM BEACH.” more »

KXXY/Oklahoma City Picks Up Bud & Broadway For Mornings

The BUD & BROADWAY show, syndicated by HOUSTON-based SUITERADIO, has picked up a new affiliate in iHEARTMEDIA Country KXXY/OKLAHOMA CITY, where they will debut in mornings on TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1st. The station’s BOB DELMONT is currently handling an extended 6a to noon airshift.

The show is hosted by former Country WIL/ST. LOUIS morning team BUD FORD and JERRY BROADWAY, and debuted in syndication in early SEPTEMBER (NET NEWS 8/6). UNITED STATIONS AUDIO NETWORKS picked up ad sales responsibility for the show earlier this month (NET NEWS 11/12). OKLAHOMA CITY joins the show’s existing affiliates in GEORGIA, MISSISSIPPI, ALABAMA, NORTH and SOUTH CAROLINA, NEW MEXICO, OKLAHOMA and KANSAS (NET NEWS 10/13).  more »

Two New Babies On The Way For LANCO

ALL ACCESS sends congratulations to bassist CHANDLER BALDWIN and drummer TRIPP HOWELL of ARISTA NASHVILLE’s LANCO, who both revealed to PEOPLE.com they they are expecting their first children with their wives with due dates just a few weeks apart in MAY. HOWELL and wife ALLI are expecting a boy, while BALDWIN and wife NATALIE plan to find out the sex of their baby on their anniversary, DECEMBER 31st.

Theirs will be the second and third LANCO babies, joining lead singer BRANDON LANCASTER’s daughter ELORA IVELLE, whom he and wife TIFFANY welcomed on SEPTEMBER 19th (NET NEWS 9/28). PEOPLE also reports that LANCO is set to release new music in early 2021.

Beatport, Tribe XR Bring Streaming For DJs To Virtual Reality With Link Integration

BEATPORT and TRIBE XR have introduced the full integration of BEATPORT LINK, the streaming service for DJs, directly into TRIBE XR's virtual reality software. Anyone with a consumer VR rig can now stream and mix any of the music from BEATPORT's catalog of the best electronic music in the world straight into TRIBE without ever taking off their headset. Both LINK and TRIBE subscribers can now discover music and manage their playlists of exclusive and curated songs directly on BEATPORT.COM and immediately access them within TRIBE. 

With the enhancement of BEATPORT LINK, the VR experience provided within TRIBE makes it easier than ever before to become a DJ. Anyone who downloads TRIBE from the OCULUS, STEAM, or VIVEPORT store, and subscribes to LINK now has access to over $6k of virtual equipment, all of the music on BEATPORT, DJ lessons, and a community of teachers and professionals at their virtual fingertips.  more »

Insomniac Teams Up With Musically Fed For Weekly Food Drives

INSOMNIAC CARES will partner with nonprofit MUSICALLY FED to host weekly food drives at the "Park ‘N Rave Concert Series," an ongoing weekly drive-in event at NOS EVENTS CENTER in SAN BERNARDINO, CA.

The global pandemic has left many in the music and entertainment industry struggling to provide for themselves and their loved ones, and MUSICALLY FED and INSOMNIAC are dedicated to helping put food on their table.

At each of the upcoming "Park ‘N Rave" events, INSOMNIAC will collect voluntary donations of non-perishable dry goods and canned foods for the stagehands and crews that make live entertainment possible. Donations will be collected ahead of the event by the ticket scanning team members. Headliners who bring at least 10 items for donation will receive a special gift.

For information on upcoming events and donations click here. 

KISS Doing Live Virtual Event On New Year's Eve

Rock & Roll Hall of Famers KISS will host a NEW YEAR’S EVE concert at The Royal Beach at ATLANTIS DUBAI, presented by LANDMARKS LIVE PRESENTS. Filmed with more than 50 cameras and 360-degree views, the show can be seen globally with a 1080p Livestream and available on any computer, mobile, and APPLE TV.

Performed in front of a live COVID-screened and safe audience in DUBAI, this will be a first of its kind hybrid live-ticketed and live streamed event.

KISS said, “After nine months of this pandemic darkness the world may finally be seeing light of day. On NEW YEAR’S EVE KISS will rock the heavens, shake the earth and blaze the way out of 2020 with the largest and most bombastic celebration in our and anyone else’s history. We all need it. We all deserve it. Here’s to 2021." more »

Happy Birthday

ALL ACCESS Happy Birthday wishes on MONDAY (11/23) to TRACY JOHNSON MEDIA GROUP Pres./CEO TRACY JOHNSON, REELWORLD Chairman and Co-Founder MIKE THOMAS, TUCCI & ASSOCIATES’ MIKE MARTUCCI, REAZAR PROMOTIONS' BARRY RICHARDS, KOZZ/RENO's KEN ALLEN, WICO-WXJN/OCEAN CITY's EJ FOXX, WARNER RECORDS’ MELISSA HATCHER, former CBS RADIO/LAS VEGAS SVP/Market Mgr. JERRY MCKENNA, STAR ONE MANAGEMENT Pres. STAR FEE, WTIC/HARTFORD’s GARY CRAIG, INTERSCOPE's MELISSA TAYLOR,  TJ MURPHY PRODUCTIONS CEO TOM MURPHY, promotion vet LEILANI SHIU, WAEB-WZZO/Allentown PD JOSH WOLFF, former KSEG/SACRAMENTO PD BRIAN LOPEZ and to WPLW/RALEIGH’s MD MEL ROSE. more »

American Music Awards: Taylor Swift, Doja Cat, The Weeknd Win Big

TAYLOR SWIFT was named ARTIST OF THE YEAR at the 48th AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS, which took place at the MICROSOFT THEATER in LOS ANGELES, carried live on ABC at 8p (ET), with a delayed broadcast at 8p (PT) on the WEST COAST.  THE WEEKND and RODDY RICCH topped the list of nominees with eight apiece, while MEGAN THE STALLION has five.

The DICK CLARK PRODUCTIONS show, which took place just two days before TUESDAY's announcement of nominees for next year's 63rd GRAMMY AWARDS and a few days after the LATIN GRAMMY AWARDS, is taking place amid strict coronavirus restrictions.

TARAJI P. HENSON, star of the TV show, "Empire," as music executive Cookie Lyon, hosted the festivities with plenty of enthusiasm, even doing her own dance number.. more »

The iHeartMedia RIF Hits A Slower Day; Here's The List Of Who Needs A Job

Wrapping up week three of the iHEARTMEDIA RIF, it was a decidedly less active day. Hearing from numerous sources that there may be more names coming, but we'll wait to see.

Either way, this has been painful for those who have lost their jobs as iHEARTMEDIA retools its management, content creation, promotion, marketing, podcasting, digital teams, sales and engineering staffs preparing for the future and to keep step with a WFH environment due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

With THANKSGIVING next week, let's all keep these folks in mind. Even if you don't have a job for them, letting them know that you are thinking of them is very important, hence this list. Call or email them. more »

NuVoodoo & Research Director, Inc. Reveal Benefits Of Hot Zip Report

Radio's Programming and Marketing teams have been using RESEARCH DIRECTOR INC.'s HOT ZIP REPORT since 2012 to help geotarget heavy listeners and boost ratings. The report provides radio stations with data on which of their market’s zip codes provide the most listening to each station in the metro, as well as customized format groups. 

NUVOODOO MEDIA SERVICES has long recognized the value of this report which provides unprecedented insight into brand  strengths and weaknesses, down to the precise zip code level. Recently, EVP/Marketing MIKE O’CONNOR sat down with RESEARCH DIRECTOR, INC. partner CHARLIE SISLEN to discuss the benefits of this report. Here's what they look like: more »

Strategic Solutions Research Presents Nielsen Audio November '20 PPMs Released Monday

NIELSEN AUDIO PPM NOVEMBER '20 MONTHLY results arrive MONDAY (11/23) for NEW YORK; LOS ANGELES; CHICAGO; SAN FRANCISCO; DALLAS; HOUSTON; PHILADELPHIA; ATLANTA; NASSAU-SUFFOLK; RIVERSIDE-SAN BERNARDINO; SAN JOSE; and MIDDLESEX-SOMERSET-UNION. Find the 6+ ratings for the subscribing stations in the ALLACCESS.COM NIELSEN AUDIO section after 2p (PT) on MONDAY.

NAB Leadership Foundation Launches First Time Manager Fellowship

The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BROADCASTERS LEADERSHIP FOUNDATION (NABLF) has established a scholarship for women, people of color and individuals representing small market stations entering their first managerial roles. The "First Time Manager Fellowship," funded by a grant from the NIELSEN FOUNDATION, will be granted for 10 broadcasters selected in a competitive application process to enroll in the First Time Manager Series, the NABLF's online management training course. The application deadline is 11:50p (ET) on FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18th.

“We look forward to providing professional development opportunities and engaging the next generation of industry leaders,” said NABLF Pres. MICHELLE DUKE. “Thank you to the NIELSEN FOUNDATION for its support of this program, which will assist fellows in their first managerial roles and throughout their careers.”

Find out more and apply by clicking here.

RAB 'Open For Business' Live Video Series To Stream Panel Of Agency Executives

Another RADIO ADVERTISING BUREAU webinar in its "Business Unusual" program's "Open for Business" live video series has been announced, a panel of agency executives discussing “What Agencies Want From Their Media Partners.”

The panel will stream at noon (CT) on DECEMBER 9th, with KATZ RADIO GROUP Pres. CHRISTINE TRAVAGLINI moderating and MAGNA's KATHY DOYLE, BURRELL's LINDA JEFFERSON, and MEDIA BRIDGE ADVERTISING's JESSICA BIRKHOLZ on the panel.

The webinar, free to RAB members, will be subsequently available for on-demand viewing.

 

Video By Art Vuolo Captures Detroit-Windsor Triple Format Flip

THURSDAY's triple format flip in the DETROIT-WINDSOR market, with BELL MEDIA flipping Active Rock CIMX (89X) to Country under its national PURE COUNTRY brand and Triple A CIDR (93.9 THE RIVER) going to Top 40 as 93.9 VIRGIN RADIO (NET NEWS 11/19) while ENTERCOM flipped AC WDZH (98.7 THE BREEZE) to Alternative as ALT 98.7 (NET NEWS 11/19), was captured in a video by ART VUOLO.

Hear the transitions and see local news coverage of the format changes in a nine minute compilation below or by clicking here.

more »

No New Station Sale Transactions In FCC Database Friday Morning

No new station sale transactions appeared in the FCC database FRIDAY morning (11/20).

One licensee applied for an STA, BRYAN BROADCASTING LICENSE CORPORATION, which requested permission to operate WTAW-F/BUFFALO, TX at reduced power due to transmitter failure.

Christmas Before Thanksgiving, Radio Rushes To Holiday Relief

THANKSGIVING is a week away, and radio couldn't be more enthusiastic about the holiday relief. Stations across the country are rushing to bring the CHRISTMAS spirit to the masses sooner rather than later. 2020 has been a challenging year with lots of anxiety over the pandemic and the economy. Listeners are looking for comfort and relief NOW. The number of stations flipping from their original formats to All-Christmas before the Thanksgiving holiday continues to grow.

If your stations are flipping that All Santa Switch, send us the details, here.

Here's a look at stations already playing all-CHRISTMAS music so far: more »

Bruce St. James To Host Mornings At WLS-A/Chicago

Former BONNEVILLE News-Talk KTAR-F/PHOENIX host BRUCE ST. JAMES will replace the exiting MANCOW MULLER in mornings at CUMULUS MEDIA News-Talk WLS-A/CHICAGO, reports ROBERTFEDER.COM.

MULLER recently announced that WEDNESDAY (11/25) will be his final day at WLS (NET NEWS 11/17); ST. JAMES, who has filled in at WLS, exited KTAR last FEBRUARY after 10 years with the station. He will take over at WLS on DECEMBER 14th.

In an email to staff, PD STEPHANIE TICHENOR said, "In our 97th year, we are changing. 2021 is the year we bring the focus back to who matters most -- our listeners. .... BRUCE ST. JAMES is here to have a conversation, not a lecture. He is not here to change formats. He is here to continue what 890 already does best -- inform and entertain our listeners."

Harrison Hinman To PD At WJYY/Concord, NH; Nazzy Named APD/MD

BINNIE MEDIA Top 40/Mainstream WJYY (105.5 JYY)/CONCORD, NH has named HARRISON HINMAN PD. HINMAN also host middays on the station. Simultaneously, it was announced that WJYY afternoon personality NAZZY would add APD/MD stripes.

In a FACEBOOK post HINMAN commented, "I'm very grateful for this amazing opportunity and am also very happy to have NAZZY by my side as Assistant Program Director and Music Director. I still have to pinch myself every now and then. I've been listening to JYY since I was a young kid so this has all come full circle."

HINMAN continued, "This is quite the opportunity and I'm very grateful for HEATH COLE, MASSIMO ROSATI and the rest of the great team we have at BINNIE MEDIA for believing in NAZZY and I to lead JYY into a new direction."

KMZQ/Las Vegas Swaps Heidi Harris And Mike Gallagher's Time Slots

KEMP COMMUNICATIONS News-Talk KMZQ-A/LAS VEGAS is swapping time slots for local host HEIDI HARRIS and syndicated host MIKE GALLAGHER.

Starting MONDAY (11/23), HARRIS will move from 6-9a (PT) to 9a-noon, telling her newsletter subscribers that "after 20 years, the morning drive hours weren't working for my life or health any more," allowing KMZQ to air GALLAGHER's SALEM RADIO NETWORK show live 6-9a.

Tencent Music Buys Shares In Virtual Concerts Company Wave

TENCENT MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT has acquired shares in L.A.-based virtual concerts company WAVE after buying equity in both UNIVERSAL MUSIC GROUP and WARNER MUSIC GROUP. 

WAVE combines broadcast technology and real-time gaming graphics to transform artists into digital avatars in a virtual world, through which they can play livestreamed concerts for fans to watch and interact with. The company  has hosted over 50 events from artists including THE WEEKND, JOHN LEGEND and LINS3EY STIRLING, performing for millions of viewers around the world.

Those viewers can access and share WAVE concerts via YOUTUBE, TWITCH, FACEBOOK, TWITTER and other digital and gaming channels.  more »

New Auto-Tune Hybrid Introduced By Antares Audio

ANTARES AUDIO TECHNOLOGIES has introduced AUTO-TUNE HYBRID, a brand new edition created exclusively for use with AVID PRO TOOLS  platforms, optimized to take advantage of AVID’s DSP-based hardware, giving PRO TOOLS users more processing power. HYBRID also works on native systems when PRO TOOLS users aren’t using DSP-based hardware, making it perfect for everything from mixing on a laptop to using AUTO-TUNE in real time in both the studio and live performances. 

AMTARES CEO STEVE BERKLEY commented, “We’re thrilled to offer AUTO-TUNE HYBRID to the PRO TOOLS community.  It delivers the features and performance professional mixers, producers, and engineers need to be successful in today’s studio and live environments. It’s designed to make the most of AVID’s hardware and boost performance in key moments, whether it’s laying down tracks or perfecting a performance in real time. Combining our technology so seamlessly gives music-makers the professional tools they need to be successful in their musical endeavors.” 

Added AVID Dir./Product Management FRANCOIS QUEREUIL, “ANTARES' unmistakable products have helped raise the quality of countless vocal recordings and given artists, producers, and engineers the confidence and creative options to realize their artistic vision. By working together to integrate AUTO-TUNE technology and AVID’s hardware  we’ve unlocked even more potential. Together we’re now offering a complete set of professional effects designed to take vocal production to a whole new level.”

Triple A Radio Plans Special Programming And Charitable Events For The Holidays

This year has been like no other, and many Triple Radio stations who have annual holiday events to support their communities have been forced to suspend them due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. But that doesn’t mean several stations are not still moving ahead with special programming and charitable events.

On the community support side iHEARTRADIO Triple A KBCO/DENVER has announced the pending release of its STUDIO C VOLUME 32. It will be available on SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5th at select COLORADO WHOLE FOODS MARKET locations. Proceeds from the release go to benefit the BOULDER COUNTY AIDS PROJECT, FOOD BANK OF THE ROCKIES and COLORADO MUSIC RELIEF FUND. KBCO is also joining HOPE TO THE HUNGRY campaign to encourage listeners to support the DENVER RESCUE MISSION. more »

KQKS (KS1075)/Denver Kicks Off Tony V's 17th Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive

ENTERCOM Top 40/Rhythmic KQKS (KS1075)/DENVER morning man TONY V's 17TH ANNUAL THANKSGIVING FOOD DRIVE has a COVID-19 twist to it. This year, the food drive is virtual.

KS1075 is teaming with the ALPHA PHI ALPHA fraternity, the EPWORTH FOUNDATION, WALMART and KODICK BUILDING PARTNERS to help bring the DENVER community together to feed 10,000 families for this year's 56TH ANNUAL DADDY BRUCE RANDOLPH THANKSGIVING.

KS1075 and TONY V are leading the drive for food and money donations, building a list of volunteers to deliver meals and gather nominations for families in need of a helping hand this THANKSGIVING.

Cox Media Group Tampa Hosts 'Feed the Bay' Virtual Food Drive

COX MEDIA GROUP stations Hot AC WWRM (MAGIC 94-9),Top 40 WPOI (HOT 101.5), Talk WHPT (102.5 THE BONE), AC WDUV (105.5 THE DOVE) and Adult Hits WXGL (107.3 THE EAGLE) have joined forces with METROPOLITAN MINISTRIES to host FEED THE BAY: A VIRTUAL FOOD DRIVE

From 6a to 12a (ET) TODAY, the radio stations will invite listeners to either log onto one of the stations' websites, or to one of the stations' apps and click on the DONATE HERE button to assist METROPOLITAN MINISTRIES during these difficult times.

COX MEDIA GROUP TAMPA VP/Market Manager KEITH LAWLESS commented, “This is the 8th consecutive year that COX MEDIA GROUP TAMPA has been a partner with METROPOLITAN MINISTRIES for the holidays. 2020 has been a challenge for all, and the need for families has never been greater than it is now.”

Donors can see what their donation provides on the METROPOLITAN MINISTRIES website, www.metromin.org, and the different ways donors can during this challenging time. 

SiriusXM Offers 'Howard Stern's Comics On Comics' Video Special

SIRIUSXM will offer a new HOWARD STERN video special on the satellite and streaming service's app over THANKSGIVING week. “HOWARD STERN’S COMICS ON COMICS” is a compilation of STERN's interviews with prominent comedians about other comedians.

The interviews include JIM CARREY on RODNEY DANGERFIELD; TOMMY CHONG on REDD FOXX and GEORGE CARLIN; The late BERNIE MAC on FLIP WILSON, REDD FOXX and MOMS MABLEY; NORM MACDONALD on SAM KINISON AND RODNEY DANGERFIELD; MARC MARON on SAM KINISON; SETH MEYERS on JB SMOOVE; TRACY MORGAN on RICHARD PRYOR; CHRIS ROCK on EDDIE MURPHY; JERRY SEINFELD on ANDY KAUFMAN; SARAH SILVERMAN on DAVE CHAPPELLE and STEVE MARTIN; and DAVID SPADE on CHRIS FARLEY.

WGN/Chicago Inks 'Mr. Fix It' Lou Manfredini To Contract Extension, Expands Show

NEXSTAR News-Talk WGN-A/CHICAGO has inked weekend host LOU MANFREDINI ("Mr. Fix It") to a contract extension that expands his home improvement show.

ROBERTFEDER.COM reports that the deal expands "HOUSESMARTS RADIO WITH LOU MANFREDINI" from three to four hours (6-10a (CT)) on SATURDAY mornings, starting JANUARY 2nd. The addition of the 6a hour bumps "OUTSIDE THE LOOP RADIO WITH MIKE STEPHEN" to 5a SATURDAYS.

Jim Blasingame Celebrates 23rd Anniversary Of 'The Small Business Advocate Show'

JIM BLASINGAME's "THE SMALL BUSINESS ADVOCATE SHOW" celebrated its 20th anniversary TUESDAY (11/17).  The show debuted on NOVEMBER 17th, 1997.

BLASINGAME's syndicated show has also generated over 2,600 podcasts annually, creating a library of over 50,000 podcasts available free on-demand to small businesses. He also writes a syndicated column and a weekly ezine and has written four books.

Detroit Station Agrees To Consent Decree With FCC Settling Political Public File Violations

ADELL RADIO GROUP, INC. has joined the lengthy list of licensees reaching Consent Decrees with the FCC to resolve violations of the rules requiring uploading of political advertising files to online station public inspection files.

The agreement, which requires adherence to a compliance plan but does not assess a fine, covers violations at News-Talk WFDF-A (910AM SUPERSTATION)/FARMINGTON HILLS-DETROIT, MI.

Triton Digital Releases September 28-November 1 U.S. Podcast Rankings

TRITON DIGITAL has released its charts of podcast listening in the U.S by average weekly downloads and average weekly users for the month of SEPTEMBER 28th through NOVEMBER 1st.

The reports measure several of the larger podcast producers but not all, including only "participating entities that opt-in for measurement," with some prominent shows like THE JOE ROGAN EXPERIENCE and producers like SPOTIFY, PRX, IHEARTMEDIA, ESPN, and others missing.

The Top 20 Podcasts by Average Weekly Downloads:

1. NPR NEWS NOW, NPR (last month: #1)
2. THE BEN SHAPIRO SHOW, WESTWOOD ONE (2)
3. UP FIRST, NPR (3)
4. CRIME JUNKIE, ADLARGE/CABANA (4)
5. NPR POLITICS, NPR (6)
6. MY FAVORITE MURDER WITH KAREN KILGARIFF AND GEORGIA HARDSTARK, STITCHER (5)
7. POD SAVE AMERICA, CROOKED MEDIA/CADENCE13 (8)
8. DATELINE NBC, NBC NEWS (7)
9. FRESH AIR, NPR (10)
10. PLANET MONEY, NPR (9)
11. THE DAN BONGINO SHOW, WESTWOOD ONE (12)
12. HOW I BUILT THIS, NPR (11)
13. HIDDEN BRAIN (New), STITCHER (--)
14. MORBID: A TRUE CRIME PODCAST, AUDIOBOOM (16)
15. INDICATOR FROM PLANET MONEY, NPR (15)
16. FOX NEWS RADIO NEWSCAST, FOX NEWS PODCASTS (19)
17. OFFICE LADIES, STITCHER (17)
18. MARK LEVIN PODCAST, WESTWOOD ONE (22)
19. TED RADIO HOUR, NPR (18)
20. THE RACHEL MADDOW SHOW, NBC NEWS (21)

The Top 20 Podcasts by Average Weekly Users: more »

Ezra Klein Exits Vox Media To Join The New York Times, Lauren Williams Exits Vox To Start News Organization

VOX MEDIA co-founder EZRA KLEIN is exiting as Editor at Large and host of "THE EZRA KLEIN SHOW" podcast to join the NEW YORK TIMES as a columnist for its Opinion section and a podcast host.

KLEIN wrote on TWITTER, "After nearly eight amazing years building, editing, and working at @voxdotcom, I am leaving to join @nytopinion, writing a reported column on policy and the policymaking process, and hosting an interview podcast. Helping to build @voxdotcom has been the great privilege of my journalistic life. It is so much more than I ever could have imagined, and that’s because of the insanely creative, committed people who work there. I love them more than I can say. I will cheer them on forever."
 
KLEIN isn't the only top VOX official to be exiting, as LAUREN WILLIAMS has announced her departure as Editor-in-Chief in FEBRUARY to co-found, with "MY 90S PLAYLIST" podcast co-host AKOTO OFORI-ATTA, a new nonprofit news organization, CAPITAL B, aimed at Black audiences and launching in mid-2021.

Pandora Live To Feature 'Dolly Parton & Friends Holiday Special'

PANDORA will host a virtual holiday celebration featuring DOLLY PARTON on FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4th at 8p (CT). "Pandora LIVE featuring Dolly Parton & Friends Holiday Special" will stream live from a studio in NASHVILLE decorated for the holidays and feature performances from PARTON, as well as TASHA COBBS LEONARD, BRETT ELDREDGE and CARLY PEARCE.  

In addition to the performances, each guest will be interviewed and asked about their favorite holiday traditions and memories of PARTON. Children around the country will take the reins during a special "Dear DOLLY," segment where they'll have the opportunity to interview PARTON about her favorite holiday memories. Listeners can RSVP for the free event here.

In honor of the special, PANDORA and flavor brand MCCORMICK will partner for a charitable donation to ' while also encouraging viewers to give the gift of reading this holiday season by making a donation of their own.

Jason Aldean, Lady A And More Participate In St. Jude's 'Gifts That Give Auction'

ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL is holding its "ST. JUDE Gifts That Give Auction" through THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3rd. Items currently up for bids are a dinner for two alongside JASON and BRITNEY ALDEAN at E3 CHOPHOUSE in NASHVILLE, a pre-show dinner with THOMAS RHETT, a backstage champagne toast and VIP concert experience with LADY A, a book club experience with five friends and LAUREN AKINS, and a ZOOM meet and greet with CHRISSY METZ alongside a ticket to her virtual concert, a signed copy of her book, "This Is Me," and CHRISTMAS merch.

Other options up for bid include a personalized audio message from actress KRISTEN BELL, a VIP experience with BUFFALO TRACE and the opportunity to purchase the first STAGG JR. barrel ever sold to the public. View the complete list of experiences for bid here. more »

Florida Georgia Line And Monarch Media To Partner For An Original, Country Movie Musical

FLORIDA GEORGIA LINE and film and TV production company MONARCH MEDIA will partner for an original, Country movie musical that will have the duo's TYLER HUBBARD and BRIAN KELLEY creating original music and reimagining Country classics, according to THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER. A title and plot details for the feature have not yet been revealed. KELLEY ventured into the world of musicals last year with his company, CUZBRO PRODUCTION, for the stage production "May We All" (NET NEWS 10/17/19).

HUBBARD and KELLEY will executive produce the film alongside MONARCH's VICKY PATEL. MONARCH's STEVE BARNETT and ALAN POWELL, and Country music video director T.K. McKAMY will also produce, with plans for McKAMY to also direct. more »

Music Row To Be Featured In New CNBC Series, 'Street Of Dreams'

NASHVILLE's MUSIC ROW will be featured in an episode of the new CNBC series hosted by MARCUS LEMONIS, “Streets of Dreams with MARCUS LEMONIS.” According to the NASHVILLE BUSINESS JOURNAL, the episode, which was taped before the COVID-19 pandemic, will highlight MUSIC ROW and the success stories of music industry entrepreneurs and business professionals it has been a part of, including artist BRETT YOUNG and UNIVERSAL MUSIC PUBLISHING GROUP NASHVILLE CEO TROY TOMLINSON. The episode will air TUESDAY, JANUARY 5th at 9p (CT).

“I love all aspects of business, but the most intriguing part to me is the people,” said LEMONIS. “Normally, I invest in business, but I’ve always said we need to ‘bet on humanity,’ and in this show I was able to peel back the layers of some of these iconic streets in business and understand how the people behind them have kept them running so successfully for generations ... There are some incredible stories and we get to show viewers the importance of how people can build dreams together.”

Other iconic streets to be featured in the series, which begins TUESDAY, DECEMBER 29th, are NEW YORK's DIAMOND DISTRICT, SAN DIEGO's HARBOR DRIVE and MIAMI's CALLE OCHO.

Matt Stell Debuts Live Performance Video On All Access

On the heels of “Everywhere But On” becoming his second consecutive #1 hit (NET NEWS 11/2), ARISTA NASHVILLE/RECORDS artist MATT STELL debuted a live version of his first hit, “Prayed For You,” exclusively on ALL ACCESS this morning (11/20). “Prayed For You” recently was honored by both BMI and SESAC as one of the most performed Country songs of the year.

Perched on a road case and backed by two other musicians, STELL plays guitar and belts out his first smash in this video, wearing a jacket that covers what appears to be a BROOKS & DUNN and REBA McENTIRE t-shirt underneath. Watch his performance below. more »

WXTU/Philadelphia To Hold Its 21st 'Annual Toy Truck Parade'

BEASLEY MEDIA GROUP Country WXTU/PHILADELPHIA will hold its 21st annual "Toy Truck Parade" to benefit the UNITED SERVICE ORGANIZATION (USO) and THE BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF AMERICA on SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5th. Participants are encouraged to decorate their vehicles and drop off new, unwrapped toys to benefit children in the local community. The parade will be hosted by the station's ANDIE SUMMERS, RAZZ, CHARLIE MAXX and NICOLE MICHALIK.

Due to COVID-19 precautions, the event will be a drive through this year. It will take place from 8a-1p (ET) at the XFINITY LIVE VALET parking lot located at 1100 PATTISON AVENUE in PHILADELPHIA. The station will also host its annual radiothon for ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL on DECEMBER 10-11 from 6a-7p.

Entercom & The Steve Harvey Morning Show To Deliver Turkeys

ENTERCOM has partnered with PREMIERE NETWORKS syndicated “THE STEVE HARVEY MORNING SHOW” to provide turkeys to families in need during the holidays. It’s the STEVE HARVEY MORNING SHOW ANNUAL TURKEY GIVE. Since the event started in 2009, close to 90,000 turkeys have been given away nationwide.

Participating stations include Urban WFBC-HD2 (96.3 THE BLOCK)/GREENVILLE, SC; Urban AC WQMG (97.1 QMG)/GREENSBORO, NC; Urban AC WVKL (95.7 R&B)/NORFOLK, VA; and Urban WBTJ (106.5 THE BEAT)/RICHMOND, VA.

EVP/Programming JEFF SOTTOLANO said, “During an especially challenging year, we’re happy to bring together four of our stations and partner with STEVE HARVEY to provide THANKSGIVING meals to those in need. Our greatest responsibility is the ability to connect deeply and authentically with the communities we serve, and we’re thankful for the opportunity to celebrate the holidays with them." more »

Pandora Live Sounds Of Soul To Feature Brandy & Summer Walker

PANDORA has put together a virtual event to celebrate Black women. BRANDY and SUMMER WALKER will perform for PANDORA LIVE SOUNDS OF SOUL on DECEMBER 1st at 9p (ET).

This is the fourth event in the series that features top artists from all genres, including country, rock, R&B and more.

SIRIUSXM's HEART & SOUL (CH. 48) on-air personality MICHEL WRIGHT will host and do an in-depth interview with BRANDY. HEART & SOUL (CH. 48) will rebroadcast the BRANDY performance and interview on SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27th at 4p (ET).

BRANDY said, “I’m excited to be part of PANDORA’s SOUNDS OF SOUL, especially being able to connect with my fans in this unprecedented time. Thank you for this amazing opportunity to perform." more »

Rick & Carly Paired For Mornings Again In Boise

ILIAD MEDIA GROUP Adult Hits KSRV (96.1 BOB FM)/BOISE is putting RICK & CARLY IN THE MORNING on in the market again, effective MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30th. The pair, RICK DUNN and CARLY CASH, last did mornings together across town at TOWNSQUARE MEDIA Country KAWO.

DUNN joined ILIAD MEDIA GROUP in MARCH 2020 for afternoons at Country KQBL (101.9 THE BULL)/BOISE (NET NEWS 9/25). He'll continue to host that show, as well as tracking mornings at BROADWAY MEDIA Country KEGA (THE EAGLE)/SALT LAKE CITY, where he goes by the on-air name SHOTGUN JACKSON. CASH will also continue her afternoon shift at KEGA.

ILIAD MEDIA GROUP CEO DARRELL CALTON commented, "We are excited to bring RICK & CARLY back together. Their passion for creating entertaining content and connecting with the community (RICK & CARLY’S Kids) has made
them beloved in the market." more »

KOEZ (104.1EZ)/Des Moines Joins The Christmas Club

SAGA AC KOEZ (104.1EZ)/DES MOINES has joined the ranks of stations that are now programming CHRISTMAS music for the remainder of the holiday season.

WGTS (91.9)/WASHINGTON DC Hosts Virtual “Night of Hope”

WGTS (91.9)/WASHINGTON DC Morning Show Host JERRY WOODS has successfully transitioned the station’s annual outreach event, “Night of Hope,” to a live webcast. The virtual event featured a performance from CASTING CROWNS, and messages from DARREN MULLIGAN of WE ARE MESSENGERS and New Hope Seventh-day Adventist Church Pastor MIKE SPEEGLE.

The live webcast on NOVEMBER 6TH and subsequent recording views have exceeded 50,000 impressions. Viewers from at least 10 states and cities around the world have viewed the broadcast. More than 100 people signed up for virtual Bible studies, led by WOODS and SPEEGLE on Monday evenings.

AJR 'One Spectacular Night' Livestream Concert December 26th

AJR "One Spectacular Night: The Immersive Concert" will livestream on SPOTIFY, SATURDAY DECEMBER 26th, 8p (GMT, ET) and SUNDAY DECEMBER 27th 8p (AET) 10p (NZT) 6p (JT/KT). The event will be broadcast by KISWE, with sound-enabled applause, and interactive features. The concert will have a theatrical arc, lightning, lasers, and illusions.

Pre-sale begins TODAY (11/20) 12p (ET) through SUNDAY (11/22) 11:55p (ET). General on MONDAY (11/23) 10a (ET) globally. Tickets are $25 available at www.AJRBrothers.com.

Neil Diamond, Capitol Records Announce 'Sweet Caroline' Global Sing-Along

NEIL DIAMOND and CAPITOL RECORDS announced THURSDAY the "Sweet Caroline Global Sing Along" which will take place TODAY (11/20) to DECEMBER 4th. The campaign celebrates NEIL DIAMOND’s new studio album NEIL DIAMOND WITH THE LONDON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA, CLASSIC DIAMONDS.

People from all around the world, including fans, celebrities & influencers alike will be able to upload videos of themselves singing along to NEIL’s world famous classic song. The results of the sing-a-long will be ready for viewing on DECEMBER 11th, when a video compilation of highlights will be posted live.

In conjunction with the sing-a-long, a ‘Sweet Caroline’ TIK TOK campaign that uses the original version of the hit song has been launched and will run for a week and a half, with contributions coming from some of the most influential TIK TOK creators from the UK, U.S., GERMANY and AUSTRALIA. 

DIAMOND’s new 14-classic song collection NEIL DIAMOND WITH THE LONDON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA, CLASSIC DIAMONDS will be released on NOVEMBER 20th and features new vocals from NEIL DIAMOND paired with a new interpretation of DIAMOND’s most celebrated chart-topping hits, performed by THE LONDON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA. 

To Participate in the Global Sing Along click here.

The Smithereens Set To Drop 'Christmas Morning'

NEW JERSEY HALL OF FAMERS THE SMITHEREENS have a new entry for the 2020 holiday season, “Christmas Morning,” which features all four founding members of the band: JIM BABJAK, DENNIS DIKEN, MIKE MESAROS and late vocalist PAT DINIZIO.  The song will be available as both a digital download and 7” GREEN 45 RPM record.

“Christmas Morning” was written by BABJAK, who said “For me, CHRISTMAS has always been a time of peace and reflection. Even just for one day, all will be right in the world. And in this time of COVID-19 and political divisiveness, the song couldn’t be more vital."  more »

Beatport, Tribe XR Bring Streaming For DJs To Virtual Reality With Link Integration

BEATPORT and TRIBE XR have introduced the full integration of BEATPORT LINK, the streaming service for DJs, directly into TRIBE XR's virtual reality software. Anyone with a consumer VR rig can now stream and mix any of the music from BEATPORT's catalog of the best electronic music in the world straight into TRIBE without ever taking off their headset. Both LINK and TRIBE subscribers can now discover music and manage their playlists of exclusive and curated songs directly on BEATPORT.COM and immediately access them within TRIBE. 

With the enhancement of BEATPORT LINK, the VR experience provided within TRIBE makes it easier than ever before to become a DJ. Anyone who downloads TRIBE from the OCULUS, STEAM, or VIVEPORT store, and subscribes to LINK now has access to over $6k of virtual equipment, all of the music on BEATPORT, DJ lessons, and a community of teachers and professionals at their virtual fingertips.  more »

Concord Music Publishing Signs Producer/Songwriter Bizness Boi

CONCORD MUSIC PUBLISHING has signed songwriter/producer ANDRE "BIZNESS BOI" ROBERTSON to a worldwide agreement to cover all past and future works.

Born in MILWAUKEE and currently based in L.A., ROBERTSON is a prominent producer working with many top artists of today such as 6LACK, J.COLE, TEYANA TAYLOR, CHRIS BROWN, JESSIE REYEZ and is a frequent collaborator with PARTYNEXTDOOR, producing multiple singles off of PARTY’s 2016 album "P3" and the 2020 album PARTYMOBILE, including the GOLD-certified single “Believe It” featuring RIHANNA.

Said BIZNESS BOI, "It feels great to have signed with CONCORD MUSIC PUBLISHING. DAN and JEREMY are two straightforward and genuine guys that I'm excited to work closer with. I believe I'll have a lot of success with the CONCORD team for many years to come." more »

WMEX-A/Quincy Launches Website

After being on the air for six months with a playlist of over five thousand songs, MARSHFIELD BROADCASTING Oldies WMEX-A (1510 THE GREATEST HITS)/QUINCY, MA has launched its website www.wmexboston.com. 

Afternoon host JOE MCMILLAN said, "WMEX plays Oldies with real personalities, like the good ole days. The response has been fantastic and the FM has been approved and will be on the air soon!"

Former KTBZ (94.5 The Buzz)/Houston's Dinah Powers Passes

ALL ACCESS sends condolences to the family and friends of former iHEARTMEDIA Alternative KTBZ (94-5 THE BUZZ)/HOUSTON morning co-host DINAH POWERS, who lost her short battle to Stage IV uterine cancer. DINAH left the THE ROD RYAN SHOW in SEPTEMBER 2019 to return to school. 

The station has shared memories of DINAH here.

ROD RYAN posted the sad news about the 34-year old former co-host on INSTAGRAM..

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Rod Ryan Show (@rodryanshow) more »

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Happy Birthday

ALL ACCESS Happy Birthday wishes FRIDAY (11/20) to NEW WORLD VP/COO JERRY CLIFTON, PRIMARY WAVE and MAFFEI MGMT's TOM MAFFEI, former WSRS-WTAG/WORCESTER, MA PD TONY BRISTOL, WINDHAM HILL artist and radio host JIM BRICKMAN, KBFM/MCALLEN PD JOHNNY O, HUDSON MEDIA RESEARCH Pres./CEO MATT HUDSON, WQCM/HAGERSTOWN-CHAMBERSBURG, PA GM RICH BATEMAN, CARPORT Pres. BILL HONS, JIM CUTLER VOICE OVERS Pres. JIM CUTLER, JOHN DARLING VOICEOVER’s JOHN DARLING, ENTERCOM Reg. Pres. & Pres./Sales Operations MICHAEL DOYLE, CHILDREN'S MIRACLE NETWORK's JIM LITTRELL, CUMULUS/LAKE CHARLES OM MARK STEVEN, iHEARTMEDIA/FT. MYERS Marketing Dir. JOE TURNER, WRTO/MIAMI OM LEO VELA, WLAN/LANCASTER's LIZ BELL, KYXY/SAN DIEGO's KEVIN DEAN, ECLIPSE RECORDS President CHRIS POLAND, former Q-PRIME’s MICHAEL FANG, former KAJA-KRPT/SAN ANTONIO and KASE-KVET/AUSTIN APD/MD BREE WAGNER, WNNX/ATLANTA’s JASON BAILEY, WESTWOOD ONE’s HEATHER MARTINEZ, former KIZN-KQFC/BOISE PD HANK AARON and to former KGB/SAN DIEGO’s COE LEWIS. more »

All Access Action

STEVE BARTLES,RICHARD PALMESE, SHARON DASTUR, BRIAN MACK, BRADY BROSKI, JARED FALLON, JOEL MURPHY, JOHN ALLERS, JOHN BOULOS, RANDY MALLOY, BILL DUNN, SCOTT HOLT, TYLER RUSSELL, HOWARD PETRUZIELLO, NIK RIVERS,FLORIDA GEORGIA LINE, RICK DUNN, CARLY CASH, RAELYNN, THE SWON BROTHERS, DAVE MCKAY, MIKE MCCOY, DAN PEARLMAN, GREG LEE, SAM NELSON, CATHY WILLIAMS, T. TURNER, ERIC FAISON.