Research Director Inc., Exclusive September PPM Analysis For Houston-Galveston, Washington DC, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Boston

ALL ACCESS Recaps SEPTEMBER 2020 Day Two

As SEPTEMBER goes, this will classify as one of the strangest on record. In normal times we’d be talking about back-to-school days, end-of-summer vacations, and Labor Day weekend gatherings. Those things don’t seem to matter as much, at least when talking about radio ratings.

The Ratings Experts from RESEARCH DIRECTOR, INC., along with our Zoommates from XTRENDS, are hunkered down in WFH mode – pretty much like you and a good portion of your audience. Still, the data marches on, so long as the wifi holds, we can bring you more SEPTEMBER results. For accounting purposes, this one ran from 8/13 through 9/9.
 
HOUSTON-GALVESTON: The Eagle Has Landed
Sometimes, those headlines just write themselves. Back in MAY, COX MEDIA GROUP Classic Rock KGLK (THE EAGLE 106.9 & 107.5) landed at #1 6+. However, it was forced to share the spotlight with UNIVISION Regional Mexican KLTN (QUE BUENA 102.9). This time KGLK had the aerie all to itself after posting its best share in over a year (6.9-7.4). This ended the three-book winning streak for iHEARTMEDIA AC KODA (SUNNY 99.1), which stepped down to #2 (7.5-6.7). The station continued as the cume leader (1,497,700-1,534,900) – a gain of 2.5%. The market rose by 1.3%. iHEARTMEDIA Alternative KTBZ (94.5 FM THE BUZZ) also had its highest share in over a year (5.6-6.3) as it moved up to #3. KLTN slipped to #4 with its lowest mark since FEBRUARY (6.5-6.1). iHEARTMEDIA N/ KTRH-A repeated at #5 (5.3-5.6) while URBAN ONE Urban AC KMJQ (MAJIC 102.1) was close behind at #6 (4.9-5.4) as it ended a three-book slide. more »

The List Of Who Has Just Left iHeartMedia Is Growing

Another painful day in the radio biz, thanks to the ravages of COVID-19 on the economy. As a result, iHEARTMEDIA had to make the painful decision to let some already-furloughed staff go due to economics and the fact that working from home had made the need for some of those jobs tougher to justify, as detailed YESTERDAY (9/29) in a company wide memo from iHEARTMEDIA Chairman/CEO BOB PITTMAN and CFO/COO RICH BRESSLER (NET NEWS 9/29). 

Many of these folks are still eager to work in radio, so reach out to them and see if you have something in your company or station that they could fit into.

If you have been affected by these downsizings at iHEARTMEDIA, let ALL ACCESS know and we will post your name, station, duties and contact info so that you make bases with other opportunities. Just click here. more »

New York Post Reports Craig Carton To Get 'Formal Offer' To Return To WFAN/New York

The continuing speculation over CRAIG CARTON's comeback is coming to a head with the NEW YORK POST's ANDREW MARCHAND reporting that a "formal offer" for CARTON to host afternoons at his former employer, ENTERCOM Sports WFAN-A-F/NEW YORK, is "expected to be extended by the end of the week."

MARCHAND does not disclose in the report where that information was obtained, but has previously reported that CARTON was made a "legitimate offer" to host mornings at BEASLEY Sports WPEN (97.5 THE FANATIC)/PHILADELPHIA. If CARTON, who was released from prison in the SUMMER after serving a year for fraud in a ticket brokering scam, returns to WFAN, he would replace EVAN ROBERTS and JOE BENIGNO, and MARCHAND speculates that ROBERTS might be moved to partner with incumbent MAGGIE GRAY in middays with MARC MALUSIS reassigned, while BENIGNO has previously talked about retirement.

AdLarge Media To Represent National Sports Network's NCAA Basketball Slate

NATIONAL SPORTS NETWORK has signed up with ADLARGE MEDIA for advertising sales representation for its NCAA basketball radio play-by-play. NSN will offer 10 games this season, including teams like DUKE, KANSAS, KENTUCKY, MICHIGAN, NORTH CAROLINA, TEXAS, and UCLA.

“We’re very excited to offer our advertisers these NCAA basketball games on radio,” said ADLARGE Co-Founder/Co-CEO GARY SCHONFELD. “With the addition of these top-tier college basketball games from NATIONAL SPORTS NETWORK, the ADLARGE sports portfolio delivers continuous access to engaged sports fans.”

“We reached out to ADLARGE because we knew they had a lot of success with sports radio advertising sales,” said NSN Co-Founder JAMES WESTLING. “With last year’s NCAA Tournament cancelled, college basketball fans will be eager to follow their favorite teams during the 2020-21 season, and ADLARGE’s expertise in the sports arena will benefit our affiliates.”

Music Lives On - Livestream Special To Support Voter Registration

LIVEXLIVE MEDIA will present a one night only special, The Vote Ready Festival, in partnership with ATLANTIC RECORDS’ ATL Votes initiative, ELEKTRA MUSIC GROUP (EMG) and voter outreach organization HEADCOUNT as part of LIVEXLIVE's FRIDAY night franchise livestream festival, MUSIC LIVES ON.

The festival will take place at 8pm (ET) this FRIDAY (10/2), running three hours, featuring at-home performances from acts including ALL TIME LOW, AVA MAX, ELECTRIC GUEST, FITZ & THE TANTRUMS, GROUPLOVE, JXDN, LARKIN POE, PORTUGAL. THE MAN, ROB THOMAS, TAYLA PARX, WHITE REAPER and many others. Special appearances will include JACK HARLOW, JOJO, and WHY DON'T WE, all to support HEADCOUNT's mission of getting fans registered and out to vote. Check your voter registration status to RSVP. more »

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

NIELSEN AUDIO PPM SEPTEMBER '20 MONTHLY results arrive TODAY for WASHINGTON, DC; BOSTON; DETROIT; MIAMI; SEATTLE; PHOENIX; SAN DIEGO; MINNEAPOLIS; TAMPA; ST. LOUIS; DENVER; and BALTIMORE. Find the 6+ ratings for the subscribing stations in the ALLACCESS.COM NIELSEN AUDIO section after 2p (PT).  

Coming THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1st: PORTLAND, OR; CHARLOTTE; PITTSBURGH; SACRAMENTO; CINCINNATI; CLEVELAND; SALT LAKE CITY; SAN ANTONIO; LAS VEGAS; KANSAS CITY; COLUMBUS, OH; and ORLANDO.

Wisconsin Combo Sold

RANDY HUDZINSKI's FLAMBEAU BROADCASTING CO., INC. is selling Sports WLDY-A and Classic Hits WJBL (THE DICE 93.1)/LADYSMITH, WI to MICHAEL OBERG and GEORGE MANUS' ZOE COMMUNICATIONS INC. for $100,000 plus an LMA before closing.

Also filed with the FCC were requests for STAs from DIGITAL SYNDICATE NETWORK, LLC d/b/a DSN RADIO, LLC (KDKT-A/BEULAH, ND, reduced power due to transmitter issues) and BLUE SKY BROADCASTING, INC. (KPND/DEER PARK, WA, reduced power at construction permit site).

Just 34 More Days Until The Nov 3rd Elections! Are You Registered? Get Yourself & Listeners Registered - Go To YouGotta.Vote, Courtesy Alan Burns & Associates + All Access For Details

Power only matters if you use it. Exercise your power: register and vote. Remind your listeners how important registering/voting is. Remember ... not voting is not a statement. It’s a surrender. You have the power to determine America’s future … but only by voting! Remember, Patriots vote. And they remind their friends to vote. Every. Single. Vote. Counts.

Voting is vital to a healthy democracy. Unless you are living under a rock, you know that against a backdrop of immense social, political and financial upheaval that has affected all of our lives due to COVID-19 as well as vast changes in how we are governed, we are heading toward what may arguably be called the most important election of our lifetimes. The outcome of this election is up to you but -- only if you are registered to vote. more »

Jacobs Media/PRPD Public Radio Techsurvey 2020 Released

JACOBS MEDIA has released the results of its PUBLIC RADIO TECHSURVEY 2020 in conjunction with the PUBLIC RADIO PROGRAM DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION (PRPD).

JACOBS MEDIA Pres. FRED JACOBS said, “In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and the impending election, the data in this year’s PUBLIC RADIO TECHSURVEY, our 12th study of public radio listeners, reveals how the traumatic environment in 2020 is impacting public radio listening behaviors. The march to digital had already been well underway, and the events of this year show further seismic shifts in listening by location and platform.”

PRPD Pres. ABBY GOLDSTEIN said, “As 2020 has proved challenging to the public radio system on many levels, the data revealed in this year’s PRTS is a valuable resource for programmers and managers seeking actionable information to track and navigate these choppy waters.” more »

Ludacris To Perform From Home In Pandora Exclusive Presented By Spectrum

SPECTRUM PRESENTS LUDACRIS POWERED BY PANDORA is set for OCTOBER 7 at 8p EDT. LUDACRIS will perform a virtual concert from his ATLANTA home. PANDORA Dir./Hip Hop JI will also interview LUDACRIS about pandemic life, upcoming music and acting projects.

Additionally, some listeners of LUDACRIS ON PANDORA will have the chance to do a virtual meet & greet with LUDA before the his performance.

Fans 18 and older are invited to RSVP for the free event here.

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Julie Guy Renews With WLYF (101.5 Lite FM)/Miami

ENTERCOM AC WLYF (101.5 LITE FM)/MIAMI morning co-host JULIE GUY has reached a multiyear contract extension with the station. GUY, who co-hosts mornings with TAMARA G, joined 101.5 LITE FM in 2013 and has also worked in the market at WFLC, WBGG, WZTA, WPLL, and WSHE.

“As a veteran of the station, JULIE encapsulates the spirit of 101.5 LITE FM and sets the tone for our programming slate each morning,” said SVP/Market Mgr. KERIANN WORLEY. “Her distinct energy and solid rapport with TAMARA translate to a quality morning show and I’m happy to keep her in the fold for years to come.”
 
“I am thrilled and honored to continue to have the privilege to do what I love to do on 101.5 LITE FM,” said GUY. “I look forward to many more years engaging and interacting with the loyal listeners of SOUTH FLORIDA alongside TAMARA.”

They're Putting The Band Back Together At WRBQ (Q105)/Tampa

BEASLEY Classic Hits WRBQ (Q105)/TAMPA has filled out the line-up of the New MJ Morning Show. MJ is bringing his team back together with his long-time co-hosts, FROGGY and FESTER. Both are well known in the market for their many stunts and antics over the years on the MJ Morning Show.

In addition, longtime station morning personality ROXANNE WILDER will also join the new morning line-up. She has been with Q105 for over 4 years, previously co-hosting Mornings with MASON DIXON as well serving as the Midday personality on the station.

“I'm ecstatic to bring the MJ Morning Show back to TAMPA BAY on the world famous Q105,” said MJ. “I love morning radio, and with FESTER, FROGGY, and ROXANNE, we'll provide must-listen content every day." more »

Chad Heritage Named PD At WGKX And WKIM/Memphis

CHAD HERITAGE joins CUMULUS MEDIA Country WGKX (KIX 106) and AC WKIM (98.9 THE BRIDGE)/MEMPHIS as PD. He arrives from a brief stint as Dir./Content for TOWNSQUARE MEDIA’s KILLEEN-TEMPLE, TX cluster, which he joined in JUNE (NET NEWS 6/8). In that role, he had also been PD for County KUSJ (US 105). Before that, he was iHEARTMEDIA SVP/Programming, Country Brand Coord. and OM/PD for Country KSSN and Classic Country KMJX (105.1 THE WOLF)/LITTLE ROCK, where he worked for 23 years until the first round of iHEARTMEDIA layoffs claimed his job in JANUARY (NET NEWS 1/14).

HERITAGE succeeds DUANE SHANNON, who announced in JULY that he would be stepping down from his programming role to focus on his morning show at WGKX (NET NEWS 7/30). more »

Gary Cee Named GM/AM Host For WABT (Pocono 96.7)/Stroudsburg, PA

NEVERSINK MEDIA GROUP Adult Hits WABT (POCONO 96.7)/STROUDSBURG, PA, has named radio veteran GARY CEE General Manager and AM host by Managing Member BUD WILLIAMSON. 

CEE was most recently SVP Programming for iHEARTMEDIA in SUSSEX, NJ, where he oversaw WNNJ, WSUS and WHCY.  He programmed WNNJ and hosted afternoons.  His previous programming stops include WPDH/POUGHKEEPSIE, NY, and WLIR/LONG ISLAND, NY. GARY also served as Managing Editor of CIRCUS MAGAZINE and hosted programs on WDRE/PHILADELPHIA, PA, and WRCN/RIVERHEAD, NY

Commented CEE, “BUD and JULI have given me a golden opportunity to helm the station that is the radio fixture here in the POCONO community. We’re independently owned, our hosts are all local and we cover all things POCONO. Plus, I’ll be relocating to one of the most beautiful regions in the NORTHEAST, in a new home with a heart-shaped tub.”   more »

Cadillac Jack Promoted To Assistant Brand Manager At WITL/Lansing

Morning co-host CADILLAC JACK adds Assistant Brand Mgr. duties at TOWNSQUARE MEDIA Country WITL/LANSING, reporting to MCCONNELL “LARGE” ADAMS, who was promoted to Dir./Content for WITL and its five sister stations earlier this week (NET NEWS 9/28).

CADILLAC JACK joined WITL earlier this month to co-host mornings with ERICA GRAY (NET NEWS 9/15). Prior to that, he worked at stations including ENTERCOM Country WYCD/DETROIT (where he was APD/midday host), BEASLEY MEDIA GROUP WQYK/TAMPA and WXTU/PHILADELPHIA.

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WYOY (Y101.7)/Jackson, MS, Reunite 'Jenn & Bus' For Mornings

NEW SOUTH RADIO Top 40 WYOY (Y101.7)/JACKSON, MS, has signed "JENN & BUS" for mornings, it was announced by station PD NIKKI BROWN. The two will come aboard in mid-OCTOBER.

Commented BROWN, “We are so excited about the future of Y101 knowing JENN and BUS are the ones who will help take us to the next level”. 

The pair  previously worked together at MAGIC BROADCASTING in PANAMA CITY, FL, in 2017. JENN comes to Y101 from JVC BROADCASTING Top 40 WMFQ (Q92.9)/OCALA, FL where she was hosting mornings, while BUS re-joins her from LOUISIANA RADIO NETWORK. 

Commented JENN RYAN, “We are thrilled to be launching ‘JENN & BUS’ on a station with such an incredible market position as Y101, and we’re so excited to finally be working on air together again, making fun videos, and getting involved in the community.  Big thanks to GM BOB LAWRENCE, PD NIKKI BROWN, and the HOLLADAY family for welcoming us into the NEW SOUTH RADIO family.”

Andreea Gleeson Promoted To CRO, Matt Barrington To COO At TuneCore

TUNECORE has made new executive management appointments. ANDREEA GLEESON has been elevated to Chief Revenue Officer and MATT BARRINGTON has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer, reporting directly to CEO DENIS LADEGAILLERIE.

LADEGAILLERIE said, “The elevation of ANDREEA and MATT to oversee the company as Coheads affirms their contributions in strengthening TUNECORE’s services and growth in order to best serve artists at all stages of their careers on a worldwide basis."

Dan Rosen Tapped As President Of Warner Music/Australasia

DAN ROSEN has been named President of WARNER MUSIC/AUSTRALASIA, effective FEBRUARY 1st 2021. ROSEN will join WARNER after serving almost a decade as CEO of ARIA, the industry body for AUSTRALIA’s record labels, and PPCA, the collecting society that licenses recorded music for broadcast and public performance. A renowned advocate for the rights of artists and labels, ROSEN holds advanced degrees in law and business, while also having had a career as an accomplished artist. 
 
Reporting to WARNER RECORDED MUSIC CEO International And Global Commercial Services STU BERGEN, ROSEN succeeds NIKO NORDSTROM, who will return to his native country to become Managing Director of WARNER MUSIC FINLAND and VP, WARNER MUSIC NORDICS
 
Commented BERGEN, “DAN is coming to us with an extraordinary depth of knowledge and range of experience – as a pioneering exec, an artists’ advocate, and a successful performer himself. He’s seen the business from all sides and has been a passionate and fearless defender and protector of the rights of music creators in the digital age. He’ll be an exceptional addition to our global leadership team, and a great champion of our amazing artists and teams in AUSTRALIA and NEW ZEALAND.” 
 
Added ROSEN: “I am honored to have been given the opportunity to take up the leadership of such an iconic AUSTRALIAN record company and would like to thank NIKO for his hard work and dedication to the local industry over the last three and a half years. This is an exciting and dynamic time for music, with an explosion in opportunities across streaming and social media, especially given the levelling of traditional barriers in genre and geography. I am also very aware that the challenges of the pandemic demands that we remain very focused on protecting creators’ rights. I’m looking forward to collaborating with the world-class team at WARNER, expanding our investment in local talent, and strengthening the impact of AUSTRALIA and NEW ZEALAND artists on the global stage.”
 
ROSEN began his music industry career as a founder of the band SECOND DAN, which won leading AUSTRALIAN radio station TRIPLE J’s iconic UNEARTHED COMPETITION in 2003. ROSEN still writes and performs music but chose to pause his full-time career as an artist to study international law and business at NEW YORK UNIVERSITY on a FULBRIGHT SCHOLARSHIP, followed by a stint at U.S. digital start-up ROO MEDIA.  
 
He returned to AUSTRALIA in 2010 to take up his post at ARIA. ROSEN campaigned relentlessly to change negative perceptions about the music industry, receiving a major victory in 2015 when the AUSTRALIAN government legislated to block access to copyright infringing websites. He also steered major changes in the performance rights market, which has grown strongly in recent years.  

Prior to forming SECOND DAN, ROSEN spent three years at the law firm MINTER ELLISON in MELBOURNE, and subsequently served as a senior policy adviser to the AUSTRALIAN government in the areas of technology, media, and telecommunications. He holds law and business degrees with honors from MONASH UNIVERSITY in AUSTRALIA.

Yolanda Adams, Sue Ennis To Co-Chair Grammy Advocacy Committee

Four-time GRAMMY winner YOLANDA ADAMS will join songwriter SUE ENNIS as Co-Chairs of the RECORDING ACADEMY's National Advocacy Committee. Serving as the voice for all music creators alongside the ACADEMY's advocacy team in WASHINGTON, DC, the committee is comprised of leading performers, producers, songwriters, and studio engineers, and works to determine specific policy positions of the RECORDING ACADEMY and advance the interests of all music creators.

Commented RECORDING ACADEMY Chair and interim President HARVEY MASON, JR., "We're honored to have YOLANDA lead the RECORDING ACADEMY's ADVOCACY COMMITTEE alongside SUE ENNIS to help push forward vital legislation as our industry navigates the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond,. We've seen first-hand how music has the power to influence meaningful change, and we're confident the ADVOCACY COMMITTEE's wide breadth of backgrounds and perspectives provide a unique opportunity to build on the Academy's successful efforts this summer in the fight for creators' rights." more »

The Latest Merge: Infographic: Increasing Instagram Interaction

"When we put the appropriate fundamentals in play; paying attention to audience signals, genuine interaction – back and forth with the fans – and a meaningful blend of content, we get closer to strengthening audience interest and brand loyalty," noted MERGE author and LORI LEWIS MEDIA President LORI LEWIS.

"And brand strength, after all, drives financial value (especially in the times we’re managing right now).

"The following is a mash up of high impact tactics that take the least amount of effort and yet drive success towards those goals.

"While it’s INSTAGRAM specific – most of the disciplines you find here are purposeful for any social platform." more »

J Balvin Leads 2020 Latin Grammy Nominees With 13

The 2020 LATIN GRAMMY nominees were announced today (9/29) and COLUMBIAN Reggaeton artist J BALVIN snagged a whopping 13 nominations. PUERTO RICAN artists BAD BUNNY and OZUNA landed 8 each. USA TODAY has more on this year's nominations. 

The 2020 LATIN GRAMMY AWARDS air live on NOVEMBER 19, 2020 on UNIVISION.

To see a complete list of the 2020 LATIN GRAMMY nominees check out the GRAMMY.COM page here.

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Electric Daisy Carnival Europe 2021 Announces Phase One Lineup

Celebrating 25 years Electric Daisy Carnival returns to PRAIA DA ROCHA BEACH, PORTIMAO, PORTUGAL, JUNE 18th - 20th 2021 with over 140 artists on five stages. The confirmed performers are; TIESTO, ARMIN VAN BUUREN, MARSHMELLO, ALESSO, ERIC PRYDZ, DIMITRI VEGAS & LIKE MIKE, DIPLO, CHASE & STATUS (DJ), DJ SNAKE, CHARLOTTE DE WITTE, ANDY C, CAMELPHAT, JAMIE JONES, SOLARDO, GORGON CITY, DON DIABLO, SIGMA, PAUL KALKBRENNER and SCOOTER.

Limited pre-sale tickets are available 9a THURSDAY OCTOBER 1st. General tickets available 9a FRIDAY OCTOBER 2nd. Prices start at €129. Down payment of €20. Edcportugal.com

Clear Media Network Inks National Ad Sales Deal With Key Networks

Music format provider CLEAR MEDIA NETWORK has signed up with KEY NETWORKS for network advertising sales and inventory operations. CLEAR is offering 24/7 AC, Country, and Adult R&B formats.

KEY NETWORKS EVP/Ad Sales RICH BAUM said, “MARK MCCRAY and GARY SPURGEON have a tremendously successful track record in radio management at both the local and network levels and their CLEAR MEDIA NETWORK’s 24/7 music products have already been cleared in two Top 20 markets. That speaks volumes to their credibility and the value of their network product to local stations nationwide. KEY NETWORKS is thrilled to partner with them as they build out their network going forward.”

CLEAR MEDIA NETWORK COO GARY SPURGEON added, “We are excited about having RICH BAUM and the team at KEY NETWORKS represent our new music network. This partnership will only enhance our market position and affiliate opportunities.”

Gen Media Partners Creates IBA Radio Sales For Members Of Independent Broadcasters Association

GEN MEDIA PARTNERS is creating a national sales representation division exclusively for members of the INDEPENDENT BROADCASTERS ASSOCIATION, IBA RADIO SALES.

“IBA membership has been growing exponentially," said IBA Pres. and ADAMS RADIO GROUP Pres./CEO RON STONE. “To date, we have 900 members and more stations are joining every day. The number one request from prospective IBA members from our survey, conducted a few weeks ago while we were gauging interest for an IBA, was ‘we want our own rep firm.’ This opportunity with GEN MEDIA PARTNERS, known for successfully representing independent broadcasters in all size markets, is the ideal national sales partner to represent IBA member stations with this creation of a rep firm dedicated solely to IBA members. Our goal is for every independent operator to join IBA and reap the benefits of being represented by IBA RADIO SALES. The Board and I are very excited about working with GEN MEDIA PARTNERS to build our national sales platform and the opportunities IBA RADIO SALES will bring to our members.” more »

KTBZ (94-5 The Buzz)/Houston Rally’s Around Former Rod Ryan Show Cast Member Dinah Powers And Her Fight Against Cancer

iHEARTMEDIA Alternative KTBZ (94-5 THE BUZZ)/HOUSTON's former morning co-host DINAH POWERS of the ROD RYAN SHOW is battling cancer less than a year after leaving THE BUZZ to go back to school in SEPTEMBER 2019. The 34-year old DINAH was recently diagnosed with Stage IV uterine cancer. This summer she spent over 30 days in the in the hospital. Her brother JOHN quit his job to move to HOUSTON and take care of her. DINAH is at home now, but only at the beginning of her fight. The cancer is aggressive and has spread into her lungs and she will need 4 Chemo treatments before the end of the year, and at least six treatments total in the immediate future. Further complicating this tough news is that like many effected by the pandemic DINAH is unemployed and without insurance that twill cover the extensive treatment.   more »

WSOU/South Orange, NJ Featuring Month-Long Halloween Vinyl Fest

SETON HALL UNIVERSITY's student-run Active Rock WSOU/ SOUTH ORANGE, NJ is presenting a month-long "Halloween Vinyl Fest 2020" starting THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1st.

The month-long event offers listeners the chance to call in and win vinyl albums from bands like MASTODON, THRICE, MOTORHEAD, KILLSWITCH ENGAGE and more. The festival will also feature album exclusives, including recordings by OF MICE AND MEN and SILVERSTEIN.   

“It’s no secret that vinyl records have been enjoying a resurgence in recent years and our vinyl giveaways always get the phones ringing off the hook,” said WSOU Promotions Dir. VAL PETRARCA. “Twenty-twenty has been a challenging year for all of us and at WSOU we decided to give our listeners a real treat for Halloween.” 

WLLD (WiLD 94.1)/Tampa Helps Celebrate The Tampa Bay Lightning's Stanley Cup Win

BEASLEY MEDIA Top 40/Rhythmic WLLD (WiLD 94.1)/TAMPA and PD/morning host ORLANDO DAVIS have jumped in to help celebrate the TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING winning the 2020 STANLEY CUP with WiLD’s "Uptown Puck" (2020 STANLEY CUP REMIX).

Check out "ORLANDO MARS" and WILD's "Uptown Puck" (2020 STANLEY CUP REMIX) here.

Orlando 'Mars'

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Entercom/Sacramento Raising Funds Throughout October For River City Food Bank

ENTERCOM's SACRAMENTO cluster -- Active Rock KRXQ (98 ROCK), Classic Rock KSEG (98.9 THE EAGLE), Top 40/Rhythmic KSFM, Top 40 KUDL (106.5 THE END), Alternative KKDO (ALT 94.7), and Sports KIFM-A (ESPN 1320) -- is raising funds for the RIVER CITY FOOD BANK in a month-long text campaign throughout OCTOBER as part of ENTERCOM/RADIO.COM's "Feed Our Families" campaign.

“SACRAMENTO is ‘AMERICA’s Farm-to-Fork Capital,’ yet we have vulnerable and underserved populations -- such as students, seniors and homeless -- in our own community who are food insecure,” said SVP/Market Mgr. STACEY KAUFFMAN. “By leveraging our scale and lending our resources to support the RIVER CITY FOOD BANK’s efforts, we can raise both awareness and funds to combat this issue and support our neighbors in need.”    
 
“RIVER CITY FOOD BANK works to alleviate hunger by providing health and hope to thousands of men, women and children each week,” said RIVER CITY FOOD BANK Exec. Dir. AMANDA MCCARTHY. “As families struggle to make ends meet and provide healthy meals to children now home from school full-time, food insecurity is escalating. Through a partnership with ENTERCOM, RCFB will continue to be here for families and for all of our neighbors when they need us most.”

Linkin Park Radio Taking Over SiriusXM’s Turbo Channel October 5th

In celebration of the 20th Anniversary of LINKIN PARK's debut studio album "Hybrid Theory," SIRIUSXM's TURBO (Channel 41) will become “LINKIN PARK RADIO” starting MONDAY, OCTOBER 5th at 12p (ET) and run through OCTOBER 11th. The Channel will then continue on Channel 717 on the SIRIUSXM app and web player only from OCTOBER 12 through OCTOBER 18th.

“LINKIN PARK RADIO”  will feature the stories behind the top-selling album, as well as music spanning the band’s entire career, featuring demos, rarities, remixes, live tracks and solo music.  The band's MIKE SHINODA will also guide listeners on PANDORA breaking down each track on the LP with "PANDORA STORIES: LINKIN PARK on ‘Hybrid Theory’ at 20," leading up to the OCTOBER 9th release of  "Hybrid Theory: 20th Anniversary Edition" on WARNER RECORDS. more »

Cleveland's oWow Radio To Continue Streaming Music Jockless For Now After Regular Shows End

OWOW RADIO, the eclectic Triple A streaming station in CLEVELAND that was scheduled to shut down OCTOBER 2nd (NET NEWS 9/24), will continue to stream its music format for an undetermined period, according to a message from founder JOHN GORMAN posted on its website.

The statement confirmed that regular shows will end on OCTOBER 2nd, and the "Timeless Rock" format will continue jockless "for as long as we can financially and contractually endure." GORMAN added that he, RAVENNA MICELI, and STEVE PAPPAS will continue to work together "to examine and pursue additional processes of resurrecting oWOW's Timeless Rock format online and perhaps to other broadcast platforms," with MONICA ROBINS and ALAN GREENE on board ("We are family").

Clark Atlanta University Partners With Entercom

CLARK ATLANTA UNIVERSITY has entered a partnership with ENTERCOM that will offer students in the school’s Mass Media Arts Department access to ENTERCOM personnel and possible future jobs. A virtual event for students TONIGHT (9/30) at 7p (ET) will launch the partnership, with the school's President GEORGE T. FRENCH and ENTERCOM CEO DAVID FIELD participating.

“This is an exciting opportunity for our scholars,” said FRENCH. “Partnerships with media conglomerates such as ENTERCOM is a continuation of CLARK ATLANTA UNIVERSITY’s Mass Media Arts Department’s legacy and dedication to ensuring our students are prepared and globally competitive in the communications industry.”    more »

Knitting Factory Named Talent Buyer For Omaha's MAHA Festival

NATIONAL 360's KNITTING FACTORY ENTERTAINMENT has been named exclusive talent buyer for OMAHA's MAHA FESTIVAL. The 2021 edition runs WEDNESDAY through SUNDAY, JULY 28th - AUGUST 1st, throughout various locations around OMAHA.

KNITTING FACTORY ENTERTAINMENT’s OMAHA based talent buyer JAMES IRVINE will co-lead the programming alongside KFE’s DANNY GLAZIER. Irvine said in a statement, “We are beyond excited to work on Maha 2021 and build a long-lasting relationship with the organization. As an Omahan myself, it's a thrill to work on a project that means so much to the community. There's not much that can beat seeing live entertainment under the stars." more »

Fader Partners With 'This T-Shirt' and NIVA To Benefit Independent New York Venues

Global Media Company, The FADER has partnered with "This T-Shirt," a relief platform, and the NATIONAL INDEPENDENT VENUE ASSOCIATION (NIVA) to release exclusive merchandise to benefit independent venues in NEW YORK. Building on NIVA’s #saveourstages initiative, the "Save Our Stages" campaign will provide opportunity to raise awareness and financial assistance for independent venues in NEW YORK CITY.

The t-shirts will be released exclusively on SEPTEMBER 30th and will be available for a limited time. Proceeds from all t-shirt sales will go directly to the venues listed on each shirt and to NIVA’s "Emergency Relief Fund." NIVA’s "Emergency Relief Fund" supports AMERICA’s most vulnerable venues and provides short-term relief for independent music venue owners and promoters threatened by eviction or permanently shutting down due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

To purchase merchandise click here. 

CMT Reveals First Round Of Performers For '2020 CMT Music Awards'

CMT has revealed its first round of performers for the “2020 CMT Music Awards,” airing WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21st at 7p CT (NET NEWS 9/10). Performers include ASHLEY MCBRYDE, DAN + SHAY, KANE BROWN, LITTLE BIG TOWN, LUKE BRYAN and MAREN MORRIS, with more to be announced in the coming weeks.

The show, which revealed all of its nominees last week (NET NEWS 9/23), will air on CMT, MTV, MTV2, LOGO, PARAMOUNT NETWORK, POP and TV LAND.

more »

Scott Borchetta Named Member of 2020 Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway Hall Of Fame

BIG MACHINE LABEL GROUP (BMLG) President/CEO/Founder SCOTT BORCHETTA has been named a member of the 2020 NASHVILLE FAIRGROUNDS SPEEDWAY Hall of Fame class. BORCHETTA has been involved in the racing scene since he was a child, and has continued to make time for it, even as he runs BMLG. He has achieved numerous accomplishments in the sport over the years, including a three-peat in the NASCAR SUPERTRACK series.

"I always made time for racing," BORCHETTA told THE TENNESSEAN newspaper. "There were plenty of times, especially running super trucks, where I was not going to miss a race no matter what. I would be out with my artists FRIDAY night and then fly overnight to be at the track SATURDAY morning and run the race. There were times where I'd be sitting on pit road taking a little nap waiting to go out. There was a lot of missed hours of sleep, but man, it was worth it."

The 2020 class was selected by new Hall of Fame chairman DONNIE REDD, a longtime NASHVILLE FAIRGROUNDS SPEEDWAY PR director, along with committee members GARY NEAL, MELISSA SMITHSON and TAMMI DYCE. BORCHETTA, along with the other members of the 2020 class, will be officially announced on SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1st at the ALL AMERICAN 400 in NASHVILLE.

L3 Entertainment Ups Cody Villalobos To VP/Artist Management

NASHVILLE-based management company L3 ENTERTAINMENT has promoted CODY VILLALOBOS to VP/Artist Management. He joined the company in 2019 as Digital Strategy/Marketing Mgr., and will continue to oversee media and marketing strategy, content creation, and initiate and design marketing plans through all digital platforms. 

A NEVADA native, VILLALOBOS produced and directed JUSTIN MOORE'S "Why We Drink," "The Ones That Didn't Make It Back Home" and "Kinda Don't Care" music videos. He has also produced content for SCOTT STEVENS, HEATH SANDERS and LEAH TURNER. MOORE, STEVENS, SANDERS and TURNER are all L3 management clients. more »

Verge Records Signs Canadian Artist Brett Kissel To Record Deal

VERGE RECORDS, the label arm of global music company ONERPM, has signed Canadian Country star BRETT KISSEL to a record deal. KISSEL landed a recording deal with WARNER MUSIC CANADA in 2013, and went on to release four albums and win 18 CANADIAN COUNTRY MUSIC ASSOCIATION AWARDS (CCMA), including four from this year's show (NET NEWS 9/28).

In 2012, he landed a publishing and co-management deal with veteran NASHVILLE manager BOB DOYLE and his MAJOR BOB MUSIC, and Canadian manager LOUIS O’REILLY. KISSEL, who has 10 Canadian Gold and Platinum singles and two Gold albums to his credit, released his first American radio single, “Drink About Me,” in SEPTEMBER 2019. more »

iHeartPodcast Network Adds Three New Shows

This week's additions to the iHEARTPODCAST NETWORK include a HOLLYWOOD talk show with A-list guests, a series of conversations with women of color, and a branded-content podcast for a popular gardening product.

The new shows are JAROD EINSOHN and DAVE OSOKOW's "HEY PAL! WITH JAROD & DAVE O," debuting TODAY and featuring guests like the debut episodes' MARK CUBAN and JULIAN EDELMAN and upcoming interviews with SNOOP DOGG, ODELL BECKHAM JR., TIFFANY HADDISH, ASHLEY BENSON, JJ WATT, JEREMY PIVEN, KEVIN HART, and JOE BUCK; "HER WITH AMENA BROWN," hosted by the poet/author; and a gardening show for MIRACLE-GRO, "HUMANS GROWING STUFF," hosted by MANGESH HATTIKUDUR.

Fifth Round Of Speakers For Podcast Movement Virtual 2020 Announced

The virtual version of PODCAST MOVEMENT has announced the fifth round of speakers appearing at the PODCAST MOVEMENT VIRTUAL 2020 event, streaming online OCTOBER 19-20.

The agenda will include:

• TOM WEBSTER, EDISON RESEARCH: RESEARCH & STATISTICS KEYNOTE PRESENTATION
• TORRAN WAKEFIELD-THOMPSON, PINNA: A BEHIND THE SCENES LOOK AT PRODUCING AWARD-WINNING PODCASTS FOR KIDS!
• LEAH-SIMONE BOWEN, THE SECRET LIFE OF CANADA: I TRAINED IN THEATRE AND ALL I GOT WERE THESE PODCAST SKILLS (HOW THEATRE SKILLS CAN MAKE YOUR PODCAST BETTER)
• KRYSTINA RUBINO, RIGHT SIDE UP: LOOKING AHEAD: THE FUTURE OF PODCAST ADVERTISING
• DAN LAPINSKI, LOOPME: PODCAST FOR GOOD: CREATING SOCIAL CHANGE AT SCALE
• CHRIS COLBERT, DCP ENTERTAINMENT: PODCASTING FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE: POC & BIPOC PODCAST FOUNDERS SOUND OFF
• ADELL COLEMAN, DCP ENTERTAINMENT: SAY THEIR NAME: HOW TO USE AUDIO TO HUMANIZE HEADLINES
• AMIL NIAZI, POP CHAT/CBC PODCASTS: WHY POP CULTURE HAS NEVER BEEN MORE POWERFUL
• ERIC SCHNEIDER, MULTITUDE PRODUCTIONS: A LIVE STREAM IS A PODCAST WITH NO EDITS: REMOTE LIVE EVENTS FOR YOUR INDIE PODCAST
• GRANT DURANDO, RIGHT SIDE UP: MAKING IT COUNT: THE STATE OF PODCAST ATTRIBUTION
• JUSTIN ALVEREZ, LITHUB: MEASURING AND MONETIZING THE PODCAST NETWORK-FROM INDIE TO ENTERPRISE
• LEX FRIEDMAN, ART19: HOW TO MAKE YOUR ADVERTISERS HAPPY (FROM PITCH TO INVOICE)
• ROB GREENLEE, LIBSYN: LISTEN UP: DRIVING PODCAST DISCOVERY

Podcast Ads' Present And Future, Demystified: Steve Goldstein's AM/FM/Podcast Column

Attribution, programmatic, host-read ads ... the landscape for podcast advertising is changing, and in his AM/FM/PODCAST column for ALL ACCESS, AMPLIFI MEDIA's STEVE GOLDSTEIN brings in a special guest to help explain where we are and where we're headed.

In "The Host-Read Ad Dominates Podcasting, But Ad Tech Is Rapidly Changing That," SOUNDS PROFITABLE's BRYAN BARLETTA joins STEVE to answer a lot of questions about everything from how companies are measuring attribution to podcasts' approach to brand lift, geo-targeting, and privacy issues.

Read the column by clicking here.

Special 7-Episode Series Of Westwood One's '5-4' Podcast Looks At Supreme Court's Role In Election

The "5-4" podcast from WESTWOOD ONE PODCAST NETWORK and LEON NEYFAKH's PROLOGUE PROJECTS is producing a special podcast series on the SUPREME COURT's role in the presidential election.

The seven-episode arc began TUESDAY (9/29) with an episode on SUPREME COURT nominee AMY CONEY BARRETT and will be followed by a call-in episode, installments about the electoral college, gerrymandering, campaign finance, BUSH v. GORE, and the election results.

Diet Author Dr. Steven Gundry Moves His Podcast To PodcastOne

PODCASTONE has acquired distribution and sales rights for cardiothoracic surgeon-turned-diet book author Dr. STEVEN GUNDRY's weekly "THE DR. GUNDRY PODCAST."

GUNDRY said, "I'm proud for THE DR. GUNDRY PODCAST to now be part of PODCASTONE. Its robust podcasting network is a great platform to continue to empower listeners and share the knowledge and tools to help people live their best life."

PODCASTONE CEO PETER MORRIS said, "Dr. GUNDRY is a world-renowned surgeon and advocate for better health. Through his entertaining personal style, his one-of-a-kind interviews, and practical advice, his podcast helps people grow and live their best life. We are excited to help his audience take their journey with Dr. GUNDRY to new heights."

WFLZ/Tampa's Nick Wize, Radio Vet Tyler Leucht Launch Sports Podcast

iHEARTMEDIA Top 40 WFLZ/TAMPA APD/MD NICK WIZE and former SALT LAKE CITY and PANAMA CITY personality TYLER LEUCHT have launched a new sports podcast.

The show, "SEASON TICKETS PODCAST," posted one episode in early AUGUST before launching for good on SEPTEMBER 14th. The latest episode debuted the show's "Celebrity Guest Picker" feature with singer MAX, whose single "Lights Down Low" went double platinum in 2018, as the first guest football prognosticator.

Wondery Launches Its App In The U.K.

Podcast network WONDERY has launched its mobile app in the UNITED KINGDOM. The app has previously been available in the U.S.; its launch in the U.K. represents the first international activity for the app.

The app is available on iOS and Android and includes the WONDERY+ subscription service.

WKNR (850 ESPN Cleveland) Picks Winner Of $30,000 Ad Campaign In Small Business Contest

GOOD KARMA BRANDS Sports WKNR-A (850 ESPN CLEVELAND)/CLEVELAND has chosen MATRIX TRADE INSTITUTE as the winner of a $30,000 radio advertising campaign on the station in its "Moving Business Forward" contest for local businesses, held in partnering with the CLEVELAND CAVALIERS and KEYBANK. MATRIZ will also get use of a private suite (18 tickets, 2 parking passes, base food and beverage package) for one CAVS game at ROCKET MORTGAGE FIELD HOUSE.

GOOD KARMA BRANDS VP and CLEVELAND Market Mgr SAM PINES said, “MATRIX TRADE INSTITUTE is a great example of a local business using innovation, a great culture and a commitment to the community to move northeast OHIO forward. Our goal with this contest, in conjunction with KEY BANK and the CAVS, was to highlight, reward and help grow a local Northeast OHIO business. The opportunity that MATRIX TRADE INSTITUTE has created makes a real impact on employment outcomes in Northeast OHIO, and we’re excited to work with them on a customized marketing plan to achieve their objectives.”
 
“MATRIX is humbled and thrilled with this recognition and opportunity,” said MATRIX CEO DUSTIN PEUGEOT. “This allows us to tell our story to the NEO market, and launch much needed careers to the auto repair and collision repair industries that have incredible demand.”

WXYT (97.1 The Ticket)/Detroit Renames Studio After The Late Jamie Samuelsen

ENTERCOM Sports WXYT-F (97.1 THE TICKET)/DETROIT has renamed its studio "The SAMUELSEN Studio" in honor of the late morning host JAMIE SAMUELSEN, who passed away on AUGUST 1st (NET NEWS 8/3).

“JAMIE meant so much to our station and was a key part of our listeners lives,” said SVP/Market Mgr. DEBBIE KENYON. “We want to honor him in a special way, not only as a great broadcaster, but an extraordinary person. We hope the renaming of the studio will serve as a way to keep his memory alive and add to his incredible legacy here in DETROIT.”

OnNow.tv Partners With Ticketing/Event Platform Tixr For Livestreaming

ONNOW.TV, a digital guide to livestreams, is partnering with ticketing and livestreaming platform TIXR to integrate its programming. These offerings include stand-up and improv sketch comedy, quirky advice and talk shows, festivals, and concerts by top artists that span genres.

From pop culture brand L.A. COMIC CON to leading K-POP artists at the (virtual) OVERPASS MUSIC FESTIVAL, from rising hip hop star POLO G to iconic sketch comedy "THE SECOND CITY’s Happy Hour" weekly livestream at the new INCROWD live streaming venue, TIXR is supporting a wide range of top entertainment and creativity.

TIXR CEO ROBERT DAVATI commented, “TIXR has empowered an entire community of creators to launch livestreams that span genre and styles, and by linking it to our already strong ticketing platform, we’ve enabled performers who can’t tour to earn much needed income. To support these efforts, we’re always looking for new partners who can help them find bigger audiences and new devoted fans, ONNOW.TV was built to help fans discover and schedule their favorite upcoming live streaming events and it complements our efforts to expand livestreaming with our clients.”

Added ONNOW.TV co-founder/CEO MATTHEW ADELL, “TIXR has leaped into livestreaming, much as we jumped into creating a unified place for livestream discovery. Because of their deep relationships pre-pandemic, the media and experiences TIXR and its creators provide are high-caliber and eclectic, just the kind of livestreams ONNOW.TV users are looking for. We’re excited to help TIXR and its creators make their events even more successful by enabling viewers to find livestreams and get timely reminders about them.”

Jesse McCartney Appears At Virtual Fundraiser For Students Affected By COVID-19 Powered By Degy's FanFX

JESSE McCARTNEY, KOFFEE, 3OH!3 performed a "UNITED VIRTUAL BENEFIT CONCERT" to raise money for STUDENT EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE FUNDS for those attending UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND and additional schools within the USM system affected financially by the COVID-19 pandemic..

The event was hosted through a virtual platform called, “FANFX” by DEGY ENTERTAINMENT, where students and national acts performed, uniting and supporting one another while fundraising for a cause to help their fellow classmates. 

The concert was hosted by comedian JABOUKIE YOUNG-WHITE. 

Commented JESSE McCARTNEY, “When this all started, I wasn’t sure how I would connect with fans. The DEGY FANFX platform made it easy to bring a concert from my living room to theirs..” 

Insomniac Launches Weekly Drive-In 'Park 'N Rave'

INSOMNIAC EVENTS has launched its weekly drive-in "Park ‘N Rave Concert Series" at NOS EVENTS CENTER in SAN BERNARDINO,CA. The first shows will be OCTOBER 9th & 10th with FACTORY 93 presents MACEO PLEX. The "Park ‘N Rave Concert Series" will continue on a weekly basis with new artists performing every weekend.
 
The MACEO PLEX shows begin at 8p on FRIDAY, October 9th and SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10th and run until Midnight.
 
PASQUALE ROTELLA, INSOMNIAC EVENTS’ CEO and Founder said in a statement, “We are so excited to plan and bring to life this 'Park ‘N Rave' series for our loyal Headliners as we work hard to create safe and successful events. Stay tuned for more exciting 'Park ‘N Rave' announcements coming very soon.”   
 
Tickets for the 18+ MACEO PLEX shows are on sale now at parknrave.frontgatetickets.com.

Helen Reddy Dead At 78

Several sources are reporting 70s music icon HELEN REDDY has died at age 78.

"It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, HELEN REDDY, on the afternoon of SEPTEMBER 29th 2020 in LOS ANGELES. She was a wonderful Mother, Grandmother and a truly formidable woman," said a statement attributed to her children TRACI and JORDAN.

Singer/Songwriter Mac Davis Dies At 78

ALL ACCESS sends condolences to the family, friends and fans of Country and Pop singer/songwriter MAC DAVIS, who passed away YESTERDAY (9/29) following heart surgery in NASHVILLE. He was 78.

Named the ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC’s Entertainer of the Year in 1974, the TEXAN charted 30 Country singles on COLUMBIA, CASABLANCA and MCA RECORDS between 1970 and 1986. They include such well-known hits as “Baby Don’t Get Hooked On Me,” “Hooked On Music,” “You’re My Bestest Friend,” and “It’s Hard To Be Humble.” He also wrote hits for many other artists, most notably ELVIS PRESLEY. more »

Happy Birthday

ALL ACCESS Happy Birthday wishes on WEDNESDAY (9/30) to FIGMEDIA 1 Pres. and Media Entrepreneur BILL FIGENSHU, VUOLO VIDEO AIR-CHEX's ART VUOLO, ENTERCOM/ROCHESTER VP/Market Mgr. SUSAN MUNN, HOLLYWOOD RECORDS’ MATT DUFFY, KYCH/PORTLAND PD MARK HAMILTON, KATZ MEDIA's GLORIA KESTENBAUM, radio vet GEORGE MCFLY, WAKS/CLEVELAND PD/MD JAVA JOEL, consultant BOB MCNEILL, former KATY/RIVERSIDE-SAN BERNADINO, CA PD TOM LAZAR, SINCLAIR/AUSTIN OM THOMAS CHASE, KHTN/MODESTO-MERCED APD TIM “TIMINEM” GOODSON, KCAL/RIVERSIDE-SAN BERNADINO PD DARYL NORSELL, WESTWOOD ONE Dir./Affiliate Sales, Music & Entertainment JULIE BELL and to MY TOWN MEDIA’s COLBY ERICSON. more »

ALL ACCESS ACTION

LORI ANDERSON, JEFF RIZZO, LANA ABRUSCATO, JAMES HOWARD, KID KELLY, NATALIA SONIAK, JULIE DUNN, RICK SACKHEIM, WILL ALTHOFF, CHRISTINE CHIAPPETTA, BRAD STEINER, IAM CAMFIELD, DAVID MOORE, MIKE JACKUBOW, GARETT MICHAELS, CHAD HERITAGE, CADILLAC JACK, CODY VILLALOBOS, BRETT KISSEL, SCOTT BORCHETTA, UZETTE SALAZAR, MIKE BACON, TONY TECATE, DJ SHADY, JAY MARZZ, MATT CANDELARIA, MARICIA MAGANA, DAVID LINTON, JAY LOVE, PARIS NICOLE, DJ KAOSS, GAIL AUSTIN, MIKE KELLY, MATT ULANOFF, CADIE CALHOUN, JEFF JENNINGS, NATE WEST, BORNA VELIC, E CURTIS JOHNSON, LANCE HALE.

Research Director Inc., Exclusive September PPM Analysis For New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas

Something has been troubling us for some time. Why are there so many songs about SEPTEMBER? It’s not like that month has anything special over the other 11. What, is OCTOBER a piker? Did FEBRUARY piss someone off? And, don’t get us going about MAY. Thank you for coming to our TED Talk … now to business.

The Ratings Experts from RESEARCH DIRECTOR, INC., along with our close, but not too close, friends at XTRENDS, bring you the next NIELSEN installment – SEPTEMBER. For accounting purposes this ran from 8/13 through 9/9. Here’s what happened.

NEW YORK: Number One With A … more »

iHeartMedia Coronavirus Update: Some Furloughed Employees Not Returning

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues on, it's still a tough time for most, and iHEARTMEDIA Chairman/CEO BOB PITTMAN and CFO/COO RICH BRESSLER addressed the company with an update on how things are going. Included in their memo to staff below is the news that some furloughed employees will not be returning.

Here's the full text of their letter:

Team,

We wanted to update you on some steps that we are taking to position our company for the post-COVID future.

As you know, last MARCH, we took the difficult step of furloughing some employees, most of whom were in jobs that we did not believe would be essential until business operations reverted back to their former state. Clearly the downturn has been deeper and longer than originally expected, although advertising is beginning to recover and we are doing better than most in our areas. more »

Westwood One Study Looks At Auto Aftermarket Retailers And AM/FM's Value To Them

The third annual study of the auto aftermarket category of advertisers, commissioned by WESTWOOD ONE using MARU/MATCHBOX research, once again emphasized the value of AM/FM radio for auto parts retailers.

Among the findings, heavy AM/FM radio listeners were shown to visit more auto parts retailers, make more shopping trips, and spend 26% more than the average. DIY-ers and ultra-heavy auto parts shoppers were "far more likely" to heavily listen to AM/FM radio.

Among retailers in the category, AUTOZONE held the lead with nearly one-third of respondents saying they shop there the most, with AMAZON measured for the first time with a 10% share, and a number two ranking among do-it-yourselfers and ultra-heavy auto parts shoppers in terms of brand perceptions. more »

Norbert Nix Rises To President At Triple Tigers

TRIPLE TIGERS RECORDS GM/Partner NORBERT NIX has been elevated to Pres. of the NASHVILLE-based label, which is a partnership among THIRTY TIGERS, SONY MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT and TRIPLE 8 MANAGEMENT. Since its creation in 2016, the label has enjoyed success, earning three back-to-back #1 hits for each of its first two artist signings, RUSSELL DICKERSON and SCOTTY MCCREERY.

NIX, formerly VP/Promotion at COLUMBIA NASHVILLE and MERCURY NASHVILLE, and Dir./National Promotion at RCA NASHVILLE, has built a diverse career of more than 25 years that has also included stints as an artist manager, booking agent and music publishing executive.  more »

Nexstar Ups CFO Tom Carter To Pres./COO

NEXSTAR MEDIA GROUP, INC. has promoted CFO THOMAS E. (TOM) CARTER to Pres./COO, effective THURSDAY (10/1). CARTER, who joined the company as CFO in 2009 and will continue as CFO "for the foreseeable future," has also signed a new contract keeping him with the company through DECEMBER 31, 2023.

Chairman/Pres./CEO PERRY A. SOOK said that CARTER "has been a trusted partner during his time at NEXSTAR and has been instrumental in driving the company’s operating and financial growth and the ongoing execution of our strategic initiatives to enhance shareholder value. During TOM’s 11-year tenure, NEXSTAR has grown its revenue base more than 12 times while the company’s equity valuation has risen by more than 90 times. Further, Tom has been tireless in his communications with the sell-side analysts who follow NEXSTAR and with our institutional investors, while leading our ongoing efforts to optimize our capital structure, reduce our cost of capital, and drive returns for shareholders. more »

PromoSuite's CJ Knowles Steps Down

PROMOSUITE Dir./Business Development CJ KNOWLES has announced that he's leaving for a position at BROOKLYN, NY-based ag and food brand, ARK FOODS. KNOWLES has been with PROMOSUITE for 12 years.

KNOWLES commented, "I'm thrilled to take my passion for food and see just how similar workflow software and veggie bowls really are. I owe incredible gratitude to RACHEL FIELD, ROCCO MACRI and CHRIS BUNGO for their mentorship and faith in me for over a decade, and I will always love this industry and the people in it."

PROMOSUITE Chief Revenue Officer RACHEL FIELD added, "I can say with confidence and sincerity that we would not be where we are today without CJ's insightful contributions over the years. He has made our company infinitely stronger and more competitive. I wish him all the best in everything he does."

Southern California Public Radio Elects Edison's J. Andrew Murphy Board Chair, Catherine Ward As Vice Chair

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA PUBLIC RADIO, the operator of News-Talk KPCC/PASADENA-LOS ANGELES, has elected EDISON INTERNATIONAL SVP/Strategy and Corporate Development J. ANDREW MURPHY as its new Chair of the Board of Trustees. MURPHY previously served a Vice Chair and currently serves as Chair of the Evaluation & Compensation Committee and Executive Committee. WARD is also Co-Chair of the Development & Campaign Committee and a member of the Executive Committee.
 
Pres./CEO HERB SCANNELL said, “We are happy to have DREW and CATHERINE at the helm of the Board of SCPR. DREW’s business and strategic planning skills he brings from his work at EDISON to his previous roles leading the Strategy and Finance committees at SCPR will serve us well as Chair as we navigate the brave new world we are living in. CATHERINE, heading development and with her roots in the CAPITAL GROUP, will give us guidance and know-how on the fundraising function so important to any not-for-profit. Moreover, they are guided by and will lead us on our mission to be a centering institution in SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA and serve the community at a time when journalism has never mattered more.”

Election Day Is Just 35 Days Away! Head To YouGotta.Vote, Courtesy Alan Burns & Associates + All Access To Find Tips/Tools To Get Your Listeners Registered

Remind your listeners how important registering/voting is. Remember ... not voting is not a statement, it’s a surrender. You have the power to determine AMERICA’s future … but only by voting! Remember, patriots vote. And they remind their friends to vote. Every. Single. Vote. Counts.

Voting is vital to a healthy democracy. Unless you are living under a rock, you know that against a backdrop of immense social, political and financial upheaval that has affected all of our lives due to COVID-19 as well as vast changes in how we are governed, we are heading toward what may arguably be called the most important election of our lifetimes. The outcome of this election is up to you but -- only if you are registered to vote. more »

Def Jam Forward To Hold ‘Black & Blue’ Conversation On Police Brutality

DEF JAM FORWARD will hold a “BLACK & BLUE” live conversation on the issues of police brutality and generational over-policing in Black and Brown communities.

The panel discussion will stream live on DEF JAM’S FACEBOOK & YOUTUBE starting at 5p (ET) TONIGHT (9/29).

The virtual event will be moderated by NEW YORK CITY Public Advocate JUMAANE WILLIAMS and NEW YORK’s  8th Congressional District Representative HAKEEM JEFFRIES as a special guest.

Panelists will include community activist & former NBA player ROYCE WHITE, retired NYPD officer RONALD COLTER, and DEF JAM RECORDINGS artists CHUCK D, JADAKISS, and BOBBY SESSIONS.

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

NIELSEN AUDIO PPM SEPTEMBER '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 WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30th: WASHINGTON, DC; BOSTON; DETROIT; MIAMI; SEATTLE; PHOENIX; SAN DIEGO; MINNEAPOLIS; TAMPA; ST. LOUIS; DENVER; and BALTIMORE. 

Clusters In California And Michigan Change Hands

WOLFHOUSE RADIO GROUP, INC. is selling Regional Mexican KRAY-F (LA BUENA 103.5)/SALINAS, CA, Regional Mexican KMJV (RADIO LOBO 106.3)/SOLEDAD, CA, and K277AH/WATSONVILLE, CA to CALIFORNIA ORTIZ & 2 MEDIA, LLC for $900,000 ($100,000 down, $800,000 in a promissory note).

In other filings with the FCC, THE CROMWELL GROUP Pres. BUD WALTERS is selling SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN MEDIA, INC, licensee of News-Talk WABJ-A and Country WQTE (Q95 COUNTRY)/ADRIAN, MI, to JULIE M. KOEHN for $1 and assumption of up to $600,000 in debt. KOEHN is the President/GM of LEWANEE BROADCASTING CO., owner of crosstown AC WLEN and Sports WLEN-HD2-W243AD (96.5 THE CAVE). more »

SiriusXM Progress' 'Tell Me Everything With John Fugelsang' To Air Post-Debate Video Special

SIRIUSXM PROGRESS' "TELL ME EVERYTHING WITH JOHN FUGELSANG" will air a special post-debate video edition TONIGHT (9/29).

The episode will begin at the conclusion of the presidential debate (approximately 10:30p (ET)) on FACEBOOK LIVE. Guests will include CNN commentator SALLY KOHN, activist JAMIRA BURLEY, MSNBC Intelligence Alalyst MALCOLM NANCE, and Rep. MARK POCAN (D-WI). FUGELSANG's radio show will continue on SIRIUSXM PROGRESS at the conclusion of the video portion.

Women In Music & SiriusXM To Commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month With 'Music With A Message Event'

WOMEN IN MUSIC (WIM) will commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month with SIRIUSXM, "Music With A Message" livestream event on OCTOBER 7th, 7pm (ET). In addition, WIM will participate at the MONDO.NYC conference, presenting "Looking Ahead: The Reality of Radio vs. Streaming" panel OCTOBER 13th, 12pm (ET).

The Music With A Message panel includes Latin GRAMMY Winner, ERIKA ENDER, Latin GRAMMY Nominee MELINA LEON, Latin GRAMMY Nominee MANUE MANZO and INGRID CONTRERAS.  The conversation will explore how music educates, empowers, and uplifts communities by delivering powerful messages.
 
The Looking Ahead: The Reality of Radio vs. Streaming panel will bring together leading women in both the radio and streaming sides of music for a candid discussion about the past, current, and future state of the industry, as they share the experiences they’ve had as women working in historically male-dominated roles.

For information and tickets.

WPOC/Baltimore Morning Host Laurie DeYoung Celebrates 35th Anniversary Today

ALL ACCESS sends congratulations to iHEARTMEDIA Country WPOC/BALTIMORE morning personality LAURIE DEYOUNG, who is celebrating her 35th anniversary in a.m. drive at the station TODAY (9/29). She is a 2010 inductee into the COUNTRY RADIO HALL OF FAME, and was named the COUNTRY MUSIC ASSOCIATION’s (CMA) Large Market Personality of 1994 and CMA Major Market Personality in 2014.

Talking about her longevity in the market, DEYOUNG told ALL ACCESS in a recent interview, “I owe a lot of it to the people of BALTIMORE. This community is very loyal. They embraced me, [and] I’ve felt that, because I have done radio in other markets. I remember when I worked in SAN DIEGO many years ago, it was hard to get people to care about radio, let alone you, because there were so many things to distract people … and you were just kind of part of the noise. But in BALTIMORE … it’s something about this town. It's how the people are wired here. They're very loyal. If they love you, they will love you forever.”

Look for the full interview with DEYOUNG coming in the next few weeks in our “10 Questions” feature.

Kevin Mangan Steps Down From OM/PD Post At Marc Radio/Gainesville-Ocala

MARC RADIO Alternative WHHZ (100.5 THE BUZZ)/GAINESVILLE-OCALA, FL OM/PD KEVIN "MCKAY" MANGAN has resigned to accept a position out of the business. MANGAN flipped WHHZ to Alternative in 2014 and will continue to oversee the programming and branding of 100.5 THE BUZZ and sister WXJZ (CLASSIC HITS 100.9) in a part-time role. 

MANGAN shared the following on FACEBOOK: "After 12 years with THE BUZZ and our sister stations, I have resigned my position as Operations Manager to accept a new position outside of radio.In the next few weeks, I will begin my new career as Public Information Officer for CITY OF HIGH SPRINGS GOVERNMENT & HIGH SPRINGS FIRE DEPARTMENT. This has been a career that I have long had interest in. The last 9 months further solidified that interest. None of this would have been possible without the support and encouragement from BRUCE GILLINGHAM. He has been my biggest advocate, and it is because of him that this new chapter will soon begin. My final day on the air will be OCTOBER 9th. At the end of the day, I'm still a radio nerd. I have loved it since I was 9 years old. To that end, I will continue to work with the radio stations in a consulting role, as well as expand my voiceover business."

Throwback Nation Moves To AdLarge Media

THROWBACK BRANDS has announced a new partnership with ADLARGE MEDIA for ad sales of "Throwback Nation Radio™," which features hits of the 80s and 90s and is syndicated on more than 40 radio stations. The deal is effective JANUARY 1st, 2021. In addition, "THROWBACK 2K," AMERICA’S, "first syndicated weekend show highlighting the early hits of the new millennium," will launch on JANUARY 1st, hosted by CHRIS CRUISE. 

CFO TONY LORINO said, "The two primary goals at THROWBACK BRANDS are simple: provide the best quality content we can for broadcasters of all sizes, and provide the best customer service experience we can to make our affiliates’ jobs easier.” He added, “It was easy to see that ADLARGE is the company that will do that for us in 2021 and beyond. FRANK DESANTIS and his team are top notch. With them as our partners, the sky is the limit for us to be able to help our affiliates.” more »

Good Karma Brands To Launch Black-Oriented Talk Format '101.7 The Truth' On WRRD-W269DL/Milwaukee

GOOD KARMA BRANDS has announced the new format coming to WRRD-A-W269DL/MILWAUKEE, a News-Talk format aimed at MILWAUKEE's Black community. 101.7 THE TRUTH is scheduled for a launch by the end of 2020; GOOD KARMA is acquiring the station from MICHAEL CRUTE, who had been programming a progressive News-Talk format as "TALK 101.7/RESISTANCE RADIO." Former crosstown iHEARTMEDIA Hip Hop WKKV (V-100), RADIO DISNEY, and FOX affiliate WITI-TV (FOX 6) AE CHERIE HARRIS will serve as GM, while part-timer and MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY Admissions Counselor KYLE WALLACE will be OM of the new station.

Founder/CEO CRAIG KARMAZIN said, “At GOOD KARMA BRANDS, we believe every voice matters -- but as the events of this past year unfolded, we realized there were underrepresented voices that had so much to say and needed to be heard. We believe there is a unique opportunity for us in MILWAUKEE to launch a station that can make a real impact across the city, and within our company. I’m excited to see how the station grows and evolves and look forward to meeting the strong demand for compelling and targeted content for MILWAUKEE’s Black community.” more »

WKKV (V100.7)/Milwaukee Launches Sista Strut Virtual Breast Cancer Walk

iHEARTMEDIA Hip Hop & R&B WKKV (V100.7)/MILWAUKEE will hold its ninth annual SISTA STRUT breast cancer charity walk virtually on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3rd at 9a (CT) on its V100.7 FACEBOOK page. 

The free event aims to bring awareness to the importance of breast cancer screenings, especially for AFRICAN-AMERICAN women who are at greater risk of dying from the disease. 

Throughout OCTOBER, listeners will be encouraged to “strut” on their own time, using a suggested route or any other route of their choice. Breast cancer survivors can upload their photo and story to the V100.7 website and offer words of encouragement for those currently going through breast cancer and their families. more »

Urban One’s Radio One/Ohio Stations & AARP Ohio Team For Virtual ‘One Vote Ohio-A Real Discussion On Voting’

RADIO ONE/OHIO and AARP OHIO will hold “ONE VOTE OHIO-A REAL DISCUSSION ON VOTING.”

The virtual town hall will be a statewide forum on all RADIO ONE/OHIO FACEBOOK LIVE pages on WEDNESDAY (9/30) at 7p (ET). The URBAN LEAGUE and the NAACP will also play key roles in the discussion.

The URBAN ONE station clusters in CINCINNATI, CLEVELAND, and COLUMBUS will lead the discussions on voter registration, voter registration logistics, non-partisan voter engagement, absentee voting, voting rights for ex-felons, and the importance of voting for congressional, statewide, and local races.

RADIO ONE/OHIO midday personalities SAM SYLK, WZAK (93.1)/CLEVELAND; YAVES ELLIS, WJYD (JOY 107.1)/COLUMBUS; and TROPIKANA, WZIF (THE WIZ 101.1)/CINCINNATI will host the virtual event. more »

KXL/Portland Adds 'The Chad Benson Show'

ALPHA MEDIA News-Talk KXL/PORTLAND has added RADIO AMERICA's "THE CHAD BENSON SHOW" for weekdays 7-9p (PT). The addition of BENSON's show moves "GROUND ZERO WITH CLYDE LEWIS" to 9p-midnight.

Find out more from RADIO AMERICA at affiliates@radioamerica.com or (800) 807-4703, Ext. 250.

SiriusXM Debuts Weekly Show On Race And Sports, 'Forward Progress'

SIRIUSXM is debuting a weekly show on issues of race, society, and sports what will air on several channels. "FORWARD PROGRESS" is hosted by SIRIUSXM NBA RADIO host and MIAMI HEAT television sideline reporter JASON JACKSON and former NFL linebacker and veteran radio broadcaster KIRK MORRISON. The show will air on URBAN VIEW, NFL RADIO, NBA RADIO, FIGHT NATION, and MAD DOG SPORTS RADIO at various times during the week.

"It is wonderful to work for an organization that recognizes a focus on social justice and equality should continue beyond each incident's news cycle," said JACKSON. "This nation has struggled for nearly half a millennium with race and inequality, a struggle we have to confront once again. The jump off point for any lasting success is conversation and we have the honor of doing that each week on SIRIUSXM." more »

WKEZ/Key Largo-WPIK/Key West Launch 'Keys Talk' Format

MICHAEL STAPLEFORD's MAGNUM BROADCASTING, INC. has flipped recently-acquired Silent WKEZ-F (formerly Classic Hits MIX 96.9)/TAVERNIER-KEY LARGO, FL and WPIK (formerly Spanish AC RADIO RITMO 102.5)/SUMMERLAND KEY-KEY WEST, FL to News-Talk as KEYS TALK 96.9/102.5. MAGNUM bought WPIK for $180,000 from SUMMERLAND MEDIA, LLC and WKEZ, formerly owned by CHOICE RADIO KEYS CORP., from court-appointed assignee PHILIP J. VON KAHLE for $100,000.

The lineup includes one local hour on weekdays, "THE NEWS HOUR WITH GUY DEBOUR," and is otherwise all-syndicated, including COMPASS MEDIA NETWORKS' "THIS MORNING WITH GORDON DEAL," "ON AIR WITH DOUG, JENNIFER & VICTORIA," PREMIERE's GLENN BECK, RUSH LIMBAUGH, SEAN HANNITH, BUCK SEXTON, and "COAST TO COAST AM WITH GEORGE NOORY," and WESTWOOD ONE's MARK LEVIN.

Chris Plante Signs New Deal To Continue With Westwood One

WESTWOOD ONE has signed CHRIS PLANTE to a new deal to continue hosting his weekday 9a-noon (ET) syndicated talk show.

“WWO is excited to renew our partnership with CHRIS, as his unique perspective and strong journalistic background create an invaluable listening experience for his loyal fans,” said WESTWOOD ONE Pres. SUZANNE GRIMES. “As we enter one of the most interesting and impactful elections of our time, it is more important than ever to provide the insights that inform a nation that is hungry for information.”

PLANTE added, “I could not be more thrilled to be on the best radio network in the best nation in the world in these most extraordinary of times.”

KTCK (The Ticket)/Dallas Raises Over $105,000 In 'Drop Your Pants Clothing Drive'

CUMULUS MEDIA Sports KTCK-A-F (SPORTSRADIO 96.7 AND 1310 THE TICKET)/DALLAS-FORT WORTH raised $105,972 for CORNERSTONE BAPTIST CHURCH’s CORNERSTONE CLOTHES CLOSET for the homeless in its 7th annual two-week Drop Your Pants Clothing Drive. The fundraiser ended on SEPTEMBER 16th.

Afternoon “THE HARDLINE” co-host BOB STURM said, “Absolutely floored that our listeners got behind this in such a big way and helped us manage a virtual Drop Your Pants this year. I could not believe we broke $100,000 in donations after our initial goal of about $30,000. The listeners of this radio station never cease to amaze me with their generosity in supporting incredible causes in our community. CORNERSTONE CLOTHES CLOSET will be changed for years because of it. Along with Pastor CHRIS SIMMONS and the amazing NANCY, thank you!”

'From The Press Box To Press Row' HBCU Sports Show Added To SiriusXM ESPNU Radio Lineup

DW COMMUNICATIONS' syndicated sports show "FROM THE PRESS BOX TO PRESS ROW" (a/k/a "BOXTOROW") has been added to the lineup at SIRIUSXM ESPNU RADIO. The show, hosted by DONAL WARE and in its 15th season covering HBCU (Historically Black College and University)sports, will debut on the channel FRIDAY (10/2) and will air weekly at 7p (ET).

“We are proud to bring FROM THE PRESS BOX TO PRESS ROW to ESPNU RADIO on SIRIUSXM, which provides an even broader platform to promote what we do with HBCU sports,” said WARE. “There are so many untold stories within the HBCU sports world and more known stories that need to be reemphasized and that’s what we plan to bring to the ESPNU RADIO listening audience each week. I am also excited to be part of an amazing team at ESPNU RADIO on SIRIUSXM that has outstanding shows and excellent talent.” more »

KMJ/Fresno's 2020 Feeding Families Food Drive Raises $541,500

CUMULUS MEDIA News-Talk KMJ-A-F/FRESNO partnered with the GAR BENNETT agriculture company to raise $541,500 for the CENTRAL CALIFORNIA FOOD BANK in the 2020 Feeding Families Fund Drive. The virtual event raised $361,000 in listener donations, with GAR BENNETT INC. matching each dollar with a 50 cent donation to add $180,500. Over its seven years, the event has raised over $3 million and provided 10 million meals.

CENTRAL CALIFORNIA FOOD BANK co-CEO KIM DILDINE said, "Once again, KMJ listeners were absolutely incredible. Our goal this morning was $500,000. In the last 1.5 hours we were flooded online and in person and our total raised from KMJ listeners was $361,000 bringing our total with the GAR BENNETT match to $541,500 or, more importantly, 3,685,500 meals!"

KMJ VP/GM PATTY HIXSON added, “I’m overwhelmed by the support of our community. We can always count on the generosity of our highly-valued KMJ listeners. A special thanks to KAREN and GREG MUSSON of GAR BENNETT for their massive contribution and the hard work of our talented on-air team.”

'The Solid Verbal' College Football Podcast Inks Deal With Learfield IMG College

"THE SOLID VERBAL," a college football podcast hosted by TY HILDENBRANDT and DAN RUBENSTEIN, has inked a deal with LEARFIELD IMG COLLEGE for sales representation. HILDENBRANDT and RUBENSTEIN will also be launching new programming and podcasts under the SOLID VERBAL banner, and will be appearing on other LEARFIEND IMG COLLEGE programming, including shows on TUNEIN and SIRIUSXM.
 
“We're ecstatic to be working with the team at LEARFIELD IMG COLLEGE to grow THE SOLID VERBAL and reach more college football fans than ever before,” said HILDENBRANDT. “This is great news for our avid community of Verballers, and it gives us the opportunity to introduce entirely new podcasts to our lineup and present multiple avenues for new growth.” more »

Joe Budden Announces New Podcast Network, And A New Podcast, Too

As his podcast exits SPOTIFY (NET NEWS 8/27), JOE BUDDEN is launching his own podcast network.

BUDDEN announced the move on INSTAGRAM and TWITTER, unveiling the first new podcast for the new JOE BUDDEN NETWORK, "SEE, THE THING IS...," a show hosted by BRIDGET KELLY, MANDII B, and OLIVIA DOPE.

"And NOW we get to have some fun," BUDDEN wrote on INSTAGRAM. "I always say on the pod there are too many topics that we can’t and shouldn’t touch.. and that women get to have all the fun… So I’m extremely proud/eager to introduce our new podcast," he added, introducing the show, which will debut next week and post on TUESDAYS.

iHeartMedia Debuts Twice-Weekly News Update Podcast For Kids

iHEARTMEDIA's iHEARTPODCAST NETWORK has debuted a news update podcast for children 8-12 years old. "THE TEN NEWS," a ten minute digest hosted by BETHANY VAN DELFT and produced by SMALL BUT MIGHTY MEDIA and NEXT CHAPTER PODCASTS, will post episodes on TUESDAYS and THURSDAYS.

“I’m excited to be part of a show that’s not only cool and fun to listen to, but speaks to kids as smart and curious people,” said VAN DELFT. “‘THE TEN NEWS’ helps amplify kids’ voices and empowers them to take action.”
 
“There shouldn’t be such a glaring gap when it comes to news for kids that gives them context about what’s going on in the world and is still entertaining,” said SMALL BUT MIGHTY MEDIA Founder TRACY LEEDS. “I needed something that my kids would love to listen to -- but I could enjoy too. That’s why I developed ‘THE TEN NEWS’ and I’m thrilled to be working with iHEARTRADIO to bring this podcast to life.” more »

Downloads Up 4% Week-To-Week In Podtrac Weekly Podcast Data Release

PODTRAC's SEPTEMBER 21-27 weekly podcast listening data for its measured shows has downloads up 4% from the previous week and up 49% on a year-to-year basis.

As for growth in "top categories" for PODTRAC measured shows, download growth for the 52-week period from SEPTEMBER 23, 2019 to SEPTEMBER 27, 2020 was +16% for Arts, +41% for Business, +38% for Comedy, +16% for Education, +22% for History, +88% for News, +30% for Science, +27% for Society & Culture, +53% for Sports, and +41% for True Crime. Week-to-week growth was +6% for Arts, +1% for Business, +3% for Comedy, +5% for Education, +3% for History, +4% for News, +7% for Science, +7% for Society & Culture, -2% for Sports, and +9% for True Crime.

'Creepy' Podcast Again Posts Daily Episodes For October In '31 Days Of Horror'

BLOODY DISGUSTING's horror podcast CREEPY will once again post new episodes daily throughout OCTOBER as a HALLOWEEN event, “31 Days of Horror.” The series, hosted by JON GRILZ and offering dramatic retellings of urban legends and horror stories posted on the internet, has gone daily for the month of OCTOBER for the past three years; the fourth annual event will culminate in a two-and-a-half hour HALLOWEEN special on OCTOBER 31st. ACAST hosts and distributes the series.

GRILZ said, “When the show started I wanted to do something special for my favorite time of year. It’s easily become the most work and most fun I have all year. We start work usually in JULY just to get everything read on top of our regular story schedule.” more »

TSN Launches 'The BarDown Podcast'

CANADA's TSN is adding a new hockey podcast from its BARDOWN website, appropriately called "THE BARDOWN PODCAST." The new show, which debuted an eight-episode first season MONDAY (9/28), is hosted by the site's CORWIN MCCALLUM and DANIEL "DZ" ZAKRZEWSKI and produced by SAM GLISERMAN and BARDOWN founder/Managing Editor DAVE KRIKST.

“This is the podcast you always told your hockey buddies you were going to start -- the unique stories you hear around the world of hockey. The BARDOWN team dives in and tells these tales in hilarious fashion,” said TSN VP/Exec. Prod., News And Information KEN VOLDEN. “As a creative way to learn more about hockey that goes way beyond last night’s scores, we’re excited to add THE BARDOWN PODCAST to TSN’s fan-favorite roster of podcasts.”

“BELL MEDIA is proud to tell stories that Canadians want to hear and THE BARDOWN PODCAST is just the start of what BELL MEDIA plans to do in the podcast space going forward," added TSN parent BELL MEDIA Dir./Podcasting and Artist & Music Industry Relations TYSON PARKER.

Top Musicians Talk About Their Favorite Willie Nelson Songs On Texas Monthly's New Podcast

TEXAS MONTHLY's latest podcast is a tribute to one of the state's favorite musical sons.

"ONE BY WILLIE," debuting FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9th for eight episodes, will feature staff writer JOHN SPONG interviewing prominent musicians about their favorite WILLIE NELSON songs. Among SPONG's guests will be MARGO PRICE, LYLE LOVETT, JACK INGRAM and WYNONNA JUDD. The show is part of a larger NELSON project at the magazine, including a special issue dedicated to the singer/songwriter and a ranking of all 143 of his albums. A video has also been produced that will premiere as part of the virtual AUSTIN CITY LIMITS MUSIC FESTIVAL.

Foundry Records Finalizes Promotion Team, Promotes Baumgartner

NASHVILLE-based record label FOUNDRY RECORDS has completed its promotion team with the additions of Country veterans BRAD HOWELL, PAT SURNEGIE and MARY LYNNE O'NEIL as Directors of Regional Promotion. All will report directly to RICK BAUMGARTNER, who has been promoted to VP/Promotion after joining the label in FEBRUARY as National Dir./Promotion (NET NEWS 2/13).

HOWELL joins the team after stints at WARNER BROS., BROKEN BOW RECORDS, THE VALORY MUSIC CO., and EQUITY. SURNEGIE's past experience includes previous stops at WARNER BROS., MERCURY RECORDS and MCA NASHVILLE, and O’NEIL joins from her previous position at COLD RIVER RECORDS. BAUMGARTNER has over two decades of Country promotion experience including stops at WARNER BROS., DECCA, ATLANTIC, BROKEN BOW RECORDS and BLACK RIVER ENTERTAINMENT. more »

Carly Pearce Is Most-Added With 'Next Girl'

Congratulations to BIG MACHINE RECORDS' CARLY PEARCE, who earned 47 new MEDIABASE adds this week with her new single, "Next Girl," making it most-added at Country radio with a total of 55 stations on board.

Kudos to BIG MACHINE GM CLAY HUNNICUTT, SVP/Promotion KRIS LAMB, Dir./National Promotion ERIK POWELL, Dir./WEST COAST Promotion BILL LUBITZ, Dir./SOUTHWEST Promotion TRACY WILKINSON, Dir./MIDWEST Promotion JC COFFEY, Dir./SOUTHEAST Promotion JEFF DAVIS, Dir./NORTHEAST Promotion BROOKE DIAZ and Coord./Promotion SAMANTHA KANE.

more »

Charlie Daniels' Nonprofit For Veterans To Carry On As 'The Charlie Daniels Journey Home Project'

The Journey Home Project, a nonprofit veterans organization founded by the late CHARLIE DANIELS, will now continue as "The CHARLIE DANIELS Journey Home Project" (TCDJHP). DANIELS' wife of 55 years, HAZEL, has joined TCDJHP as a board member. 

Last month at the 11th annual “A Life Worth Celebrating” dinner banquet held in MURFREESBORO, TN, TCDJHP donated $10,000 to A Soldier’s Child Foundation. The donation benefitted children of veterans, allowing them to receive birthday gifts and scholarships to the A Soldier’s Child Foundation's week-long journey camp. TCDJHP plans to continue with its yearly events, including the "CHARLIE DANIELS Patriot Award Dinner" once COVID-19 restrictions ease.  more »

Chris Borchetta, David Shaw Depart Rebel Engine Entertainment

Directors of Regional Promotion CHRIS BORCHETTA and DAVID SHAW have departed Country label REBEL ENGINE ENTERTAINMENT, home to artist STEPHANIE QUAYLE, where they have worked since 2017 (NET NEWS 11/16/17). Both are seeking their next opportunity.

REBEL ENGINE VP CARLI MCLAUGHLIN KANE issued a statement saying, “Both SHAW and BORCHETTA have exemplified passion and commitment during their time with the company. We are confident they will continue to make great impact in their next chapters."

Prior to REBEL ENGINE, BORCHETTA has previous career stops at BIG MACHINE, STAR FARM NASHVILLE, NINE NORTH, CATEGORY 5 and his own company, NEW SCHOOL MUSIC. SHAW’s experience includes stints with COLUMBIA RECORDS, REVIVER RECORDS, NINE NORTH/TURNPIKE MUSIC, TENACITY RECORDS, R&J RECORDS, CAPSTONE MUSIC GROUP, NEW REVOLUTION and RIDE RECORDS.

BORCHETTA can be reached at chrisborchetta@gmail.com and SHAW at ds68country@gmail.com or (401) 219-1139.

WAME/Statesville, NC Adds Virtual News Center Newscasts

STATESVILLE FAMILY RADIO CORP. Classic Country WAME-A-W225BD/STATESVILLE, NC has signed up for VIRTUAL NEWS CENTER newscasts.

Owner BILLY BUCK BELVINS said, "I've had an opportunity to work with VIRTUAL NEWS CENTER for a while and it really is first rate. The anchors are excellent, and they learn the pronunciations locally quite well, and quite readily, and I couldn't ask for better."

VIRTUAL NEWS CENTER CEO JOEL DEARING added, ”BILLY BUCK BLEVINS and I have talked quite a bit over the years, so when his needs changed for local news content, we were excited that he chose VIRTUAL NEWS CENTER."

John Clay Wolfe Show Added At KLOS/L.A.

The syndicated JOHN CLAY WOLFE SHOW has been added for SATURDAYS at MERUELO MEDIA Rock KLOS/LOS ANGELES. KLOS will air the show beginning this SATURDAY (10/3).

The show combines comedy with car talk and airs on several major and medium market stations, including iHEARTMEDIA Alternative KTBZ (94.5 THE BUZZ) /HOUSTON, iHEARTMEDIA Classic Rock KZPS (LONE STAR 92.5)/DALLAS, iHEARTMEDIA Classic Rock WBIG-F (BIG 100)/WASHINGTON, iHEARTMEDIA Classic Rock WNRQ (105.9 THE ROCK)/NASHVILLE, ENTERCOM Classic Rock WKBU (BAYOU 95.7)/NEW ORLEANS, and iHEARTMEDIA Classic Rock WEGR (ROCK 102.7)/MEMPHIS.

Find out more at www.JohnClayWolfe.com and www.GiveMeTheVin.com.

Billie Eilish And Apple+ Set To Release Documentary In February

BILLIE EILISH and APPLE TODAY announced plans to release the documentary feature film, “BILLIE EILISH: The World’s A Little Blurry," in FEBRUARY of 2021. The film, directed by award-winning filmmaker R.J. CUTLER (“Belushi,” “The September Issue,” “The War Room”), will premiere in theaters and on APPLE TV+. The documentary is from APPLE ORIGINAL FILMS, in association with INTERSCOPE FILMS, DARKROOM, THIS MACHINE and LIGHTHOUSE MANAGEMENT & MEDIA.

The 18-year-old artist BILLIE EILISH released her groundbreaking debut album WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO? in 2019 and won Best New Artist, Album of the Year, Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Pop Vocal Album at this year’s 62nd GRAMMY Awards in JANUARY. She followed up with her performance of THE BEATLES’ ‘Yesterday’ at the 92nd OSCARS, and then released her internationally hailed official JAMES BOND theme song "No Time To Die," for the forthcoming MGM/EON PRODUCTIONS JAMES BOND Motion Picture.

The documentary is set to cover her path to success. Check out the teaser here.

James Bay Announces Worldwide LiveStream Event

 
Three-time GRAMMY® nominated and BRIT AWARD winning multiplatinum singer, songwriter, producer, and guitarist JAMES BAY announced TODAY a one-off livestream show in the UK entitled "JAMES BAY – Live At SHAKESPEARE’S GLOBE." It will stream worldwide on WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 21st. "Live At SHAKESPEARE’S GLOBE" is a multi-camera event featuring JAMES & his live band, and will be livestreamed to fans around the world, time-zoned to specific regions. The show will not be available on-demand after it takes place, and with no audience in attendance, the only way to watch it will be to purchase tickets to the livestream broadcast. more »

Carlos Ponce Signs Up With AIRE Radio Networks' Artistas360

SPANISH BROADCASTING SYSTEM's AIRE RADIO NETWORKS has inked actor/singer CARLOS PONCE to its marketing partnership platform ARTISTAS360. PONCE joins IVY QUEEN, ZION & LENNOX, and J ALVAREZ among artists signed to ARTISTAS360.

"CARLOS PONCE is one of the most versatile, iconic Latin superstars in the entertainment industry and we couldn't be more excited to have him join ARTISTAS360," said AIRE EVP ELISA TORRES. "Connecting Latin music and entertainment fans with the brands and stars they love is the purpose behind ARTISTAS360. We're honored to work with CARLOS, who is talented beyond measure, on the development of new and engaging content for all U.S. Hispanics -- especially as we navigate through the unprecedented challenges of 2020."

"I'm thrilled to be working with AIRE and SBS on supporting our people with uplifting content and experiences during a time when they need it the most," said PONCE. "SBS/AIRE have shown their unwavering commitment to Hispanics in the U.S. and PUERTO RICO through all of their multimedia properties. I can't wait to work with them through the ARTISTAS360 platform."

Jay Johnstone, Former MLB Outfielder, Prankster, And Yankees Radio Analyst, Dies At 74

JAY JOHNSTONE, the well-traveled major league outfielder known for his penchant for pranks, died SATURDAY (9/26) at 74 of complications from COVID-19. He had been battling dementia in recent years.

JOHNSTONE broke into the major leagues with the CALIFORNIA ANGELS in 1966 and played for the CHICAGO WHITE SOX, OAKLAND ATHLETICS, PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES, NEW YORK YANKEES, SAN DIEGO PADRES, LOS ANGELES DODGERS (twice), and CHICAGO CUBS, earning WORLD SERIES rings with the YANKEES in 1978 and the DODGERS in 1981. After his playing career, he served as radio color commentator for the YANKEES in 1989-90 on WABC-A/NEW YORK and called PHILLIES games on regional cable television in 1992-93 for PRISM.

Happy Birthday

ALL ACCESS Happy Birthday wishes on TUESDAY (9/29) to syndicated morning man and JOYNER RADIO Pres. TOM JOYNER, iHEARTMEDIA/KENTUCKY-INDIANA Regional SVPP MICHAEL JORDAN, AMPLIFY’s TIM WALLEN, KSFI-KRSP/SALT LAKE CITY PD SUE KELLEY, RCA's LARRY JACKSON, PREMIERE NETWORKS’ TANYA DOUGLAS, KGGI/RIVERSIDE's EVELYN ERIVES, former WJMR/MILWAUKEE PD LAURI JONES, SIRIUS XM’s AL SKOP, THOMPSON CREATIVE and TKO RADIO NETWORKS' SUSAN THOMPSON, WRNW-WRIT/MILWAUKEE PD BRETT ANDREWS, KBXX/HOUSTON’s G-MAN, THE WEEKLY POP 20's ANN DURAN, WHSX-WLOC-A/BOWLING GREEN PD CHRIS JESSIE, BLACKHEARTS RECORD GROUP’s JULIE RADER, METRO/BALTIMORE’s MOLLIE SIMPKINS, WKSL/JACKSONVILLE’s CATALINA and to SUNRISE/WILMINGTON NC GM VALERIE BROOKS. more »

ALL ACCESS ACTION

CHRISTINA PALMESE, JON LEWIS, SHARON DASTUR, JOHN KILGO, BRANDON "BUSTER" SATTERFIELD, RICK VAUGHN, JUD HEUSSLER, GINA GRAY, NORBERT NIX, RICK BAUMGARTER, BRAD HOWELL, PAT SURNEGIE, MARY LYNNE O'NEIL, LAURIE DEYOUNG, CARLY PEARCE, CLAIRE HORTON, ELLIOTT WOOD, ROB GOLDKLANG, AIMIE VAUGHAN, MATT POLLACK, RISA MATSUKI, TOMMY DELANEY, MARCO COLLINS, MIKE McCOY, BETH BACALL, DJ LOPEZ, J. WILL, MARK ARIAS, RUDY PALOMINOS, DAN WATSON, DOLEWITE, JOE BOOKER, ALICIA TORREZ, GREG STREET, SHADOW, ALLISON CONWAY, RIZA MATSUKI, JACK MILLER, JOE TYLER, DAVID RAVIKOFF, MIKE JAKUBOW, LEA PISACANE.