UMG’s Bravado Names Alyssa Tobias, Bill Ashton, Kim Youngberg & Keith Taperell To Leadership Team

UNIVERSAL MUSIC GROUP’s brand management company BRAVADO brings in ALYSSA TOBIAS as VP/Head of Creative Services, BILL ASHTON as Head of A&R, names KEITH TAPERELL as VP/Global Brand Partnerships & Energy Marketing, with KIM YOUNGBERG becoming Head of Legal.

TOBIAS, who comes to UMG from LIVE NATION, will lead BRAVADO’s global creative team. ASHTON was formerly with SONGKICK and will oversee new commercial and creative opportunities for BRAVADO’s artists and brands. TAPERELL joined BRAVADO in 2020 as UK VP/Sales & Retail and is promoted to his newly created role. YOUNGBERG was a partner at the DAVIS FIRM before joining BRAVADO.

BRAVADO President MATT YOUNG said, “As BRAVADO’s roster continues to expand, our company has evolved to ensure that we are giving our artists best-in-class support and services and excited to announce that ALYSSA, BILL, KEITH and KIM have joined our senior leadership team.”

Audacy Shuffles RVP/Programming For KBZT (ALT 94.9)/San Diego And WRXL (ALT 103.1)/Richmond

AUDACY has made a few Alternative programming adjustments following MONDAY's return of Alternative KITS (LIVE 105)/SAN FRANCISCO (NET NEWS 6/5). 

RVP/Alternative Programming CHRISTINE MALOVETZ adds programming duties for WRXL (ALT 103.1)/RICHMOND. MALOVETZ continues to oversee WINS-HD2 (ALT 92.3-HD2)/NEW YORK and WDZH (ALT 98.7)/DETROIT.

Meanwhile, RVP/Alternative Programming ROSS MAHONEY swaps WRXL for KBZT (ALT 94.9)/SAN DIEGO. MAHONEY continues to oversee WSFS (104.3 THE SHARK)/MIAMI, WQMP (FM 101.9)/ORLANDO, and KRBZ (ALT 96.5)/KANSAS CITY.  

Finally, RVP/Alternative Programming JOHN ALLERS relinquishes KBZT and adds KITS. ALLERS continues to oversee KVIL (ALT 103.7)/DALLAS, KNDD (107.7 THE END)/SEATTLE, KNRK (94/7 FM)/PORTLAND, and KKDO (ALT 94.7)/SACRAMENTO.

Musicians On Call Adds New National Board Members, Rick Whetsel Named Vice Chair

The nonprofit MUSICIANS ON CALL, which brings music to patients, families, and caregivers, has added four new members to its National Board of Directors. The new directors include AMERICAN HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION SVP/Communications ALICIA MITCHELL, BIG PLAN HOLDINGS Founder/CEO JOSH JOSEPH, RIVEREDGE HOSPITAL CEO ALLISON DAVENPORT, and LIGHTHOUSE COUNSEL President JEFF JOWDY. In addition, G7 MARKETING SVP RICK WHETSEL has been appointed Vice Chair and BAKER SULLIVAN HOOVER PLC Managing Partner CATHY SULLIVAN has been re-elected Treasurer.

“The MUSICIANS ON CALL National Board of Directors is headed in an exciting direction with the addition of our newest members. Vice Chair RICK WHETSEL has been instrumental in connecting us with passionate and experienced leaders who can help us push our organization forward as we head down the road to our next million served,” said MUSICIANS ON CALL Pres./CEO PETE GRIFFIN. “All of these newest members have already made great strides for our mission through their past support and we look forward to utilizing their expertise to further grow our programs and reach.”

Carmen To Afternoons At KDON/Monterey

iHEARTMEDIA Top 40/Rhythmic KDON/MONTEREY has named iHEARTMEDIA's CARMEN to succeed JESS C in afternoons for the station. JESS C is headed to join the morning show at sister station Top 40 KYLD (WILD 94.9)/SAN FRANCISCO. (NET NEWS 5/25)

CARMEN, is one half of the CK & CARMEN morning show on iHEARTMEDIA Top 40/Rhythmic KBOS (B95)/FRESNO. CARMEN will continue to do wake-ups in FRESNO and she maintains her midday shift on the station.

CARMEN jumps into KDON afternoons starting MONDAY (6/12).

Caleb James To Afternoons At WNSN (Sunny 101.5)/South Bend, IN

Former EMMIS COMMUNICATIONS Country WLHK (97.1 HANK FM)/INDIANAPOLIS morning host CALEB JAMES has surfaced at MID-WEST FAMILY AC WNSN (SUNNY 101.5)/SOUTH BEND, IN. 

It's a return to SOUTH BEND for JAMES. In 2007, he was hired to do nights at ARTISTIC MEDIA PARTNERS Top 40 WNDV (U93) and was promoted to afternoons in OCTOBER 2011.

Wisconsin Combo, Washington State FM Sold

PARK FALLS COMMUNITY BROADCASTING CORPORATION is selling Adult Hits WPFP-A-W276DJ (103.1 JACK FM) and Country WCQM (98Q)/PARK FALLS, WI to MICHAEL CRUTE and SAGE WEIL's CIVIC MEDIA, INC. for $210,000. CIVIC MEDIA recently closed on its purchase of several stations from MAGNUM MEDIA, and has flipped WLXR-A (now WLCX-A)/LA CROSSE, WI, WRJN-A-W260CV/RACINE, WI, and WCFW-HD2-W228EP/EAU CLAIRE, WI to its progressive News-Talk format.

In another filing with the FCC, GROWING CHRISTIAN FOUNDATION is selling KGLU/WISHRAM, WA to LIFETALK RADIO, INC. for $7,000.

Latin Superstar Karol G Signs With Interscope

LATIN artist KAROL G has signed with INTERSCOPE RECORDS for her future recordings. She had been signed to UNIVERSAL MUSIC LATIN ENTERTAINMENT since 2016, with the release touting the new deal as “reaffirming her long-term relationship with UMG."

KAROL G, with a stadium tour planned this summer which will see her play THE ROSE BOWL in PASADENA, CA, has generated nearly 80 billion global music streams in her career.

This year, with her album, "Manana Sera Bonito," she became the first woman ever to debut at #1 on the BILLBOARD 200 with a SPANISH-language album. Her first album, "Unstoppable," debuted atop the LATIN ALBUMS chart.

She was VEVO’s ... more »

Tupac Shakur To Receive Posthumous Hollywood Walk Of Fame Star, Big Boy To Emcee 

The unveiling ceremony TODAY (6/7) for TUPAC SHAKUR's posthumous star on the HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME will be emceed by iHEARTMEDIA Hip Hop KRRL (REAL 92.3)/LOS ANGELES and PREMIERE NETWORKS' BIG BOY. 

Accepting the star will be TUPAC’s sister, SEKYIWA “SET” SHAKUR. Speaking at the event is filmmaker ALLEN HUGHES, director of the docuseries "DEAR MAMA: THE SAGA OF AFENI AND TUPAC SHAKUR", now streaming on F/X and HULU.

HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME Producer ANA MARTINEZ said, "TUPAC SHAKUR was a rapper, actor, activist, poet, and revolutionary. This iconic artist has continued to be part of the zeitgeist for decades after his passing and will continue to be an important cultural figure for many years to come.... Surely, as one of L.A.'s own, TUPAC’s star will be added to the list of most visited stars."

Triton Digital's Programmatic Platform Adds Broadcast Radio Inventory In Expansion Of Basis Technologies Partnership

An expanded partnership between TRITON DIGITAL and BASIS TECHNOLOGIES is enabling the TRITON AUDIO MARKETPLACE programmatic advertising sales platform to allow marketers to buy across all audio segments, podcast, streaming, and now broadcast radio. The expansion will first offer ads on iHEARTMEDIA stations, with other KATZ MEDIA-represented client stations to be added later.

“Brands and agencies want direct access to guaranteed audio inventory at scale, with the control, speed, and flexibility required to meet fast-paced deadlines. Basis Technologies aligns with TRITON DIGITAL to help marketers rise above the noise to reach their customers,” ... more »

EagleRadioOnline.com Midday Host Tori Hart Is Featured In This Week’s ‘Women To Watch’ 

In this week's ALL ACCESS "WOMEN TO WATCH” column, MC MEDIA Principal CHARESE FRUGE talks to TORI HART, midday host on REBEL MEDIA’s EagleRadioOnline.com. In addition to her VO work, HART is also heard serving up Country favorites on TNNradio.com and delivering weather reports throughout the U.S. and Canada on RADIO FORECAST NETWORKS affiliates.

Her arrival at News Radio KNX/LOS ANGELES was a career milestone for HART, who noted, “It was quite an experience going from zero to heart stopping in 60 seconds some days. It was rarely the same day in and day out. I think my biggest accomplishment so far was earning a Golden Mike Award for producing a segment for ‘Community Cares.’ Finding unique stories to bring to the public has been one of my gifts, and I loved meeting new people and learning from them.”

Each week in ALL ACCESS, CHARESE FRUGE shines the spotlight on one of the many women carving out successful, diverse careers in one of our many related businesses. This week, get caught up with TORI HART. Read her story here.

Carrie Underwood To Launch Exclusive SiriusXM Channel Friday

CAPITOL NASHVILLE's CARRIE UNDERWOOD has set FRIDAY (6/9) for the launch of her previously announced CARRIE'S COUNTRY, an exclusive, year-round channel on SIRIUSXM (NET NEWS 5/1). UNDERWOOD will debut the new channel live from SIRIUSXM's "Music Row Happy Hour" at the MARGARITAVILLE CAFE in NASHVILLE with SIRIUSXM THE HIGHWAY channel host BUZZ BRAINARD.  

Special launch day programming will include a pre-taped town hall, with UNDERWOOD discussing the new channel, answering questions from fans, and special performances of her music. It was recorded earlier this year at the new SIRIUSXM studios in MIAMI, 

The channel goes live at 6:45p (CT) on SIRIUSXM channel 60, as well as on the SIRIUSXM app. CARRIE'S COUNTRY will also be simulcast on SIRIUSXM's THE HIGHWAY, channel 56, on FRIDAY from 7-11p (CT).

Concord Signs Lindsay Ell To Publishing Deal

Country singer/songwriter and guitarist LINDSAY ELL has signed with CONCORD MUSIC PUBLISHING. The deal, which is effective immediately, includes a selection of ELL's future works.

The Canadian artist recently parted ways with STONEY CREEK RECORDS after 11 years. In addition to two #1 hits in her native CANADA, ELL scored a #1 U.S. hit with BRANTLEY GILBERT in 2019 for their Platinum certified collaboration, "What Happens in A Small Town." She is a member of the COUNTRY MUSIC ASSOCIATION's Board of Directors, and is in her second season as host of "CANADA'S GOT TALENT."

"It feels amazing to be part of a team that is so engaged in creating a nurturing environment for all their writers," said ELL. "CONCORD is so team-focused, and from the moment I walked into that building, I felt like everyone had my back. I’m truly so excited to start this new chapter with this team!"

Added CONCORD's NASHVILLE-based SVP/A&R BRAD KENNARD, “LINDSAY [is] a dream partner for us at CONCORD in NASHVILLE. She has the obvious superstar voice, but also world-class songwriting, musicianship and production skills! We simply can’t wait to work with her across various creative outlets within CONCORD.”

Darius Rucker Hosts 14th Annual 'Darius Rucker And Friends' St. Jude Fundraiser

In what has become the unofficial kickoff to CMA FEST week, CAPITOL NASHVILLE's DARIUS RUCKER hosted his 14th annual "DARIUS And Friends" fundraising concert benefiting ST. JUDE CHILDRENS RESEARCH HOSPITAL on MONDAY night (6/5), with a sold-out crowd at NASHVILLE's RYMAN AUDITORIUM.  

In addition to RUCKER, the nearly three-hour show included performances from JAKE OWEN, MEGAN MORONEY, VINCE GILL, JELLY ROLL, and HARDY. iHEARTMEDIA personalities WAYNE D and TAY HAMILTON hosted a live auction that featured items including autographed guitars, special golf experiences, and more. An online auction included many additional unique items that were available for bids. To date, the event has raised more than $3 million.

Podtrac Releases May Ranking Of Top 20 Podcasts And Publishers, Top 5 Podcast Sales Networks

PODTRAC has released its MAY 2023 ranking of the top 20 podcast publishers, top 20 podcasts, and top 5 podcast sales networks among participants in its measurement service, and not much has changed, with iHEARTPODCASTS again atop the publishers' chart, THE DAILY still leading the podcast chart, and the sales network chart with the same four entries in the same order as they have been since the chart's inception. 14 of the top 20 publishers saw their unique monthly audience increase from APRIL, while the unique monthly audience for the top 20 rose 1% from APRIL and 11% year-over-year. Total global downloads for the top 20 publishers increased ... more »

Job Creators Network's 'Main Street Matters' Joins Salem Podcast Network

Conservative small business group JOB CREATORS NETWORK's "MAIN STREET MATTERS" podcast is joining the SALEM PODCAST NETWORK TODAY (6/7). The twice-weekly show is hosted by JOB CREATORS NETWORK Pres./CEO ALFREDO ORTIZ and JOB CREATORS NETWORK FOUNDATION Pres. ELAINE PARKER.

“We are so happy to add a podcast to our lineup that talks to small business owners and entrepreneurs -- the lifeblood of the economy,” said SALEM SVP/Spoken Word PHIL BOYCE. “ALFREDO and ELAINE are two of the best voices out there in this space and will be able to help so many people grow and succeed.”

Distribution Deal Puts Epoch Times Documentary 'Leaving California' On SalemNow

SALEM MEDIA GROUP's SALEMNOW streaming platform and EPOCHTV, the streaming division of THE EPOCH TIMES, a newspaper associated with (but not technically owned by) the FALUN GONG, have reached a licensing and distribution agreement for EPOCHTV's documentary, "LEAVING CALIFORNIA: THE UNTOLD STORY."

SALEMNOW GM ROBERT ELLIS commented, “It’s a privilege to partner with THE EPOCH TIMES to offer their incredible film, 'LEAVING CALIFORNIA,' on SALEMNOW.”

Throwback Nation Radio Announces 4th Of July Special, 'Red, White & Boy Band'

THROWBACK BRANDS’ THROWBACK NATION RADIO, through its syndication partner, SKYVIEW NETWORKS, is bringing back the most nostalgic boy bands this FOURTH OF JULY with their holiday special, “Red, White & Boy Band," airing TUESDAY night, JULY 4th. The syndicated show will feature the audiences’ favorite boy bands of the ‘80s and ‘90s, including BACKSTREET BOYS, N’SYNC, NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK and more. 

This one-night special will air across THROWBACK NATION RADIO affiliates and is available for additional markets on a first-come, first-served basis, pending market availability. 

For additional information on bringing this special to your market, contact affiliation@skyviewsat.com or visit throwbacknationradio.com before JUNE 23rd.

Another Planet Entertainment, Teragram To Open Bellwether, New L.A. Club With Phantogram, Haim, Tycho, Panda Bear

THE BELLWETHER, a new, 1600-capacity independent multi-genre live music and nightlife destination located in downtown LOS ANGELES at 333 S. BOYLSTON ST., opens on JULY 11th with electronic rock duo PHANTOGRAM's first local show in three years. The venue is a joint venture of SAN FRANCISCO-based ANOTHER PLANET ENTERTAINMENT -- who run THE INDEPENDENT, THE GREEK, BILL GRAHAM CIVIC AUDITORIUM and THE FOX in the BAY AREA as well as the OUTSIDE LANDS music festival in GOLDEN GATE PARK -- and TERAGRAM PRESENTS MICHAEL SWIER. Also coming to the new venue is a two-night run by HAIM, PUERTO RICAN duo BUSCABULLA, electronic artist TYCHO, ANIMAL ... more »

KGSR-HD2 (Austin City Limits Radio)/Austin Unveils Dates For 32nd 'Blues On The Green'

WATERLOO MEDIA Triple A KGSR-HD2-K246BD (AUSTIN CITY LIMITS RADIO)/AUSTIN has announced the 32^nd season of 'BLUES ON THE GREEN,' returning to the city’s ZILKER PARK on JULY 18th and 19^th.  In addition to all of the music, attendees will once again chose from all sorts of food and beverage vendors.

ACL RADIO PD JAY MICHAELS tells ALL ACCESS, “ACL RADIO delivers an incredible AUSTIN tradition of free music, family fun and incredible food! I’m so proud of this year’s soon-to-be-announced lineup representing the vibe, feel and diversity of AUSTIN.” 

WRVW (107.5 The River)/Nashville Has Morning Co-Host Opening

Ever consider livin' large in MUSIC CITY, USA? Listen up. iHEARTMEDIA Top 40 WRVW(107.5 THE RIVER)/NASHVILLE has a premiere opening for a live, local, morning show co-host.

PD JONATHAN SHUFORD told ALL ACCESS, "We're looking for a dynamic storyteller to pair with current pros RICKI SANCHEZ and ZAC WOODWARD to create can't miss radio in AMERICA's fastest growing city."

You heard the man... if you're creative, collaborative, and ready for the next step, send materials to jonathanshuford@iheartmedia.com asap!

Astrud Gilberto, Grammy-Winning ‘The Girl From Ipanema’ And ‘Queen Of Bossa Nova’ Passes At 83

ASTRUD EVANGELINA WEINERT, who became ASTRUD GILBERTO when she married fellow BRAZILIAN singer-songwriter JOAO GILBERTO, and became a foremost singer in the bossa nova tradition, breaking through with “The Girl From IPANEMA,” passed away after a brief illness at the age of 83 on MONDAY.  Often dubbed “The Queen Of Bossa Nova” for her frequent collaborations with musical and then personal partner STAN GETZ, GILBERTO was presented with the LATIN RECORDING ACADEMY’s LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD in 2008.

Born MARCH 29th, 1940, in JUAZEIRO, BRAZIL, GILBERTO was the daughter of a BRAZILIAN mother and GERMAN father, one of three sisters raised in RIO ... more »

Happy Birthday

ALL ACCESS Happy Birthday wishes on WEDNESDAY (6/7), to HITCO Chairman/CEO L.A. REID, DISNEY/ABC TELEVISION GROUP Dir./Brand Partnerships RANA KAPLAN, KLUC/LAS VEGAS' CHET BUCHANAN, RHAPSODY's QUINCY MCCOY, ALPHA MEDIA RVP LES TUTTLE, JUNEAU RADIO CENTER/JUNEAU, AK PD CHUCK GEIGER, WCTO/ALLENTOWN's SAM MALONE, KLZR/LAWRENCE-TOPEKA, KS, PD JJ MORGAN, WTKS/ORLANDO's BUCKETHEAD, WFOX/ATLANTA News Dir. GREG BLACK, KRVV-KJMG/MONROE PD CHRIS COLLINS, ATLANTIC's TIM DALBEC, former KSWD/SEATTLE's JOHN FISHER, NBC NEWS RADIO’s DAVE LEWIS, SEVEN MOUNTAINS MEDIA COO JIM LOFTUS, WMBD/PEORIA PD JAMIE MARKLEY, KFI-A/LOS ANGELES' WAYNE RESNICK, SAXIS MUSIC ... more »

Apple Kicks Off Its 2023 Worldwide Developers Conference In Cupertino With New AR Headset

APPLE kicked off its 2023 WORLDWIDE DEVELOPERS CONFERENCE keynote yesterday in CUPERTINO, CA. As expected, it announced its new AR "mixed reality" headset, the VISION PRO, which will set you back $3,499 when it launches early next year. 

Other new announcements included a 15-inch MACBOOK AIR along with THE MAC STUDIO and MAC-PRO with M2 MAX and M2 ULTRA.

Also on tap: iOS 17 for iPHONE; iPADOS 17 for iPAD; MACOS SONOMA for MAC, FACETIME for APPLE TV; WATCHOS 10 and VISIONOS for the VISION PRO headset.

The other notable happening at the convention was the announcement that an iPHONE tweak will keep its autocorrect feature from changing your word ... more »

Foo Fighters, Kelly Clarkson, Kane Brown, Fall Out Boy And More Set For 2023 'iHeartRadio Music Festival'

With Lil Wayne, Lenny Kravitz, Miguel, Public Enemy, Sheryl Crow, Tim McGraw, TLC, Thirty Seconds to Mars and More; Hosted By Ryan Seacrest

iHEARTMEDIA has unveiled its lineup for the 2023 iHEARTRADIO MUSIC FESTIVAL. The SEPTEMBER 22-23 event at LAS VEGAS' T-MOBILE ARENA will feature performances by FOO FIGHTERS, FALL OUT BOY, KELLY CLARKSON, KANE BROWN, LIL WAYNE, LENNY KRAVITZ, MIGUEL, PUBLIC ENEMY, SHERYL CROW, TIM McGRAW, TLC, THIRTY SECONDS TO MARS and more. iHEART personality RYAN SEACREST will host the event. 

iHEARTMEDIA Chief Programming Officer TOM POLEMAN commented, "We’re particularly excited about this year’s lineup. This is the only festival in the world with this range of genres - spanning all the styles you hear on our 860 stations and the iHEARTRADIO app. Each ... more »

Run DMC, Lil Wayne, Snoop Dogg, And More To Perform At 'Hip Hop 50 Live' At Yankee Stadium

HIP HOP 50 LIVE AT YANKEE STADIUM takes place AUGUST 11th in celebration of Hip Hop’s 50th birthday. The event will feature RUN DMC’S ‘Bottom of the Ninth…The Walk-Off’ performance, LIL WAYNE, SNOOP DOGG, ICE CUBE and more talent to be announced. A “Queens of Hip Hop” set will feature EVE, LIL KIM, REMY MA, TRINA and more. All taking place in the birthplace of Hip Hop, THE BRONX.  

Additional performers include: T.I., FAT JOE, COMMON, A$AP FERG, EPMD, GHOSTFACE KILLAH, LUPE FIASCO and SLICK RICK.  A “Pillars of Hip-Hop” set will feature KOOL HERC & CINDY CAMPBELL, GRANDMASTER CAZ, KURTIS BLOW, MELLE MEL, ROXANNE SHANTE, SCORPIO and the SUGAR ... more »

UMe Unveils 'Hip Hop @ 50' Logo By Eric Haze To Celebrate Five Decades

UNIVERSAL MUSIC ENTERPRISES (UMe), the global catalog division of UNIVERSAL MUSIC GROUP (UMG), will host a series of immersive celebrations for the 50th birthday of Hip Hop and Rap. The "HIP HOP @ 50" – honoring 50 Years Of Hip Hop begins this summer. The logo used to brand the upcoming events was created by ERIC HAZE.

His resume includes creating logos and album artwork for THE BEASTIE BOYS, LL COOL J, EPMD, MTV, and many others. The art piece for the “HIP HOP  @ 50” logo will be among the graphics for packaging on upcoming releases and in display at various events and activations.

HAZE said, "It is a great honor being asked to create the logo for this moment in culture and this year's celebration. Hip Hop's 50th anniversary is an amazing milestone for those who have grown up in the community since its inception. We always knew it was here to stay. Its enduring significance is undeniable as it continues to evolve and surprise."

ADA Worldwide Teaming With Rostrum Records For Distribution Deal

ROSTRUM RECORDS is moving to WARNER MUSIC GROUP's ADA WORLDWIDE for global distribution. ROSTRUM, celebrating 20 years in 2023, has discovered and launched the careers of WIZ KHALIFA and the late MAC MILLER. 

ADA WORLDWIDE Pres. CAT KREIDICH said, "ERIKA and the entire ROSTRUM team are trailblazers with an impressive track record of identifying and developing some of the best talent across genres. Our extensive global network and collaborative approach will help expand their reach, bringing ROSTRUM’s incredible artists and special catalog to new and longtime fans around the world. We’re looking forward to working alongside a like-minded team of innovators to uplift some of the best independent talent."

ROSTRUM RECORDS Pres. ERIKA MONTES added, "ROSTRUM RECORDS was founded on a commitment to bring innovative, artist-first approaches to the music industry. 20 years later, we are excited to partner with the ADA team on a shared vision to deepen the support and amplification of independent artists."

WTCB (B106.7), WOMG (98.5 OMG!)/Columbia, SC Names Leo Baldwin PD

CUMULUS MEDIA AC WTCB (B106.7) and Adult Hits WOMG (98.5 OMG!)/COLUMBIA, SC, have named LEO BALDWIN PD for the two stations. He debuts on MONDAY, JUNE 12th as on-air host for PM Drive on WTCB, heard weekdays from 3-7p (ET). 

BALDWIN joins CUMULUS from AUDACY/ST. LOUIS, where he was Operations/Brand Manager. He brings over 20 years of programming experience in markets including PHILADELPHIA, WEST PALM BEACH, ST. LOUIS and HONOLULU, where he began his radio career. 

CUMULUS/COLUMBIA VP/Market Manager TAMMY O'DELL commented, “LEO BALDWIN will bring new energy, excitement and leadership to our team at WTCB and WOMG. I look forward to working with him to grow our ratings and revenue on these two iconic brands in the COLUMBIA market.” 

Added BALDWIN, "I am excited to join the team at WTCB And WOMG! These two brands have a lot of momentum and I look forward to helping continue that growth.” 

Strategic Solutions Research Presents Nielsen Audio April '23 Ratings Today

NIELSEN AUDIO APRIL'23 Ratings for JACKSON, MS out TODAY. Find ratings for subscribing stations in the ALLACCESS.COM NIELSEN AUDIO section after 2p (PT).

ASCAP Foundation Launches Pride In Music Scholarship For LGBTQIA+ Students

The ASCAP FOUNDATION has launched its first scholarship to support creators and performers who are members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

The ASCAP FOUNDATION PRIDE IN MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP will benefit undergraduate or graduate students who are members of the LGBTQIA+ community planning to pursue a career in music. With the aim of fostering tolerance, acceptance and celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community, this scholarship enables music creators to express their individuality, creativity and unique experiences through the power of music. Two recipients will each receive a $2,500 scholarship to be used towards school tuition.

Commented ASCAP FOUNDATION ... more »

Chris Tomlin’s Non-Profit ‘For Others’ Raises Over $12 Million

GRAMMY winner CHRIS TOMLIN and wife LAUREN’s non-profit foundation, "FOR OTHERS," in partnership with the TROUBADOUR GOLF & FIELD CLUB in Middle TENNESSEE and DISCOVERY LAND COMPANY FOUNDATION, raised over $12 million at the 2nd Annual Troubadour For Others Vision Gathering in May.

Over 30 celebrities from across sports and music participated in the benefit golf tournament and auction, including NATE BARGATZE, DREW BREES, KIRK HERBSTREIT, VINCE GILL, TYLER HUBBARD, SHAY MOONEY, GOLDEN TATE, TOBYMAC, BEN ROETHLISBERGER, CHRIS TOMLIN, and CARRIE UNDERWOOD, among many others.

“We’re once again blown away by both the generosity and passion of all ... more »

L.A. Kings To Simulcast TV And Radio Coverage

Citing "current and ever-changing dynamics surrounding the broadcasting landscape," the LOS ANGELES KINGS have announced that they will no longer use separate radio and television broadcasters starting next season and have let television play-by-play voice ALEX FAUST go, with longtime KINGS radio voice NICK NICKSON and analysts JIM FOX and DARYL EVANS simulcasting coverage.

A statement from the KINGS thanked FAUST for his six years with the clun, calling him "an extremely talented and passionate broadcaster with a bright future in the NHL and sports on the whole."

The KINGS have been heard in recent years on the LA KINGS AUDIO NETWORK streaming through iHEARTRADIO and seen on BALLY SPORTS WEST; no rights deals have yet been announced for the 2023-24 season.

WPEN (97.5 The Fanatic)/Philadelphia Co-Sponsors FanDuel FanFest 2023 Featuring Rae Sremmurd

BEASLEY Sports WPEN (97.5 THE FANATIC)/PHILADELPHIA is co-sponsoring the FANDUEL FANFEST 2023 free live event in PHILADELPHIA with FANDUEL GROUP, headlined this year by RAE SREMMURD and a special surprise artist, along with "unique sports experiences" with former PHILADELPHIA pro athletes. The event will be held on AUGUST 26th at XFINITY LIVE in SOUTH PHILADELPHIA, with tickets available now to the first 10,000 fans who opt in and make a $25 or more bet.

"We are excited to bring our FANDUEL FANFEST event to the great city of PHILADELPHIA," said FANDUEL EVP/Marketing ANDREW SNEYD. "Between the amazing musical performances, our surprise headline act, and the legendary athletes in attendance, this event will have something for all and is another way for us to do something extraordinary to celebrate our customers and sports betting in the state of PENNSYLVANIA."

97.5 THE FANATIC APD ERIC CAMILLE said, "97.5 THE FANATIC is thrilled to continue our amazing partnership with FANDUEL for FANFEST's 10th Anniversary. With all the excitement planned for the day, it will be the biggest celebration dedicated to PHILADELPHIA sports fans that we have ever seen."

KIDO/Boise Adds 'The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show'

TOWNSQUARE MEDIA News-Talk KIDO-A-K298CN/BOISE has picked up PREMIERE NETWORKS’ “THE CLAY TRAVIS & BUCK SEXTON SHOW” for 10a-1p (MT). The station has also shifted PREMIERE’s SEAN HANNITY to a live clearance 1-4p, and has moved PREMIERE’s GLENN BECK to evenings 7-10p. The syndicated DAVE RAMSEY show moves to weekends.

Morning host and Brand Manager KEVIN MILLER said, “In the world that we live in today, with the possibilities of world war and an upcoming presidential election, the addition of CLAY and BUCK along with SEAN HANNITY live will allow Idahoans to hear the news and talk about it as it happens. It’s great having all three talented hosts with IDAHO connections and values in the TREASURE VALLEY.”

WFLI/Chattanooga Flips To News-Talk

TRI-STATE RADIO Oldies WFLI-A-W241AF-W262DQ/CHATTANOOGA has flipped back to News-Talk. The station briefly carried a Talk format in 2017-18.

The new lineup includes the syndicated RICK & BUBBA, CLAY TRAVIS & BUCK SEXTON, SEAN HANNITY, and BILL O'REILLY, plus a simulcast of "GOOD MORNING CHATTANOOGA" from crosstown ABC affiliate WTVC (TV) (NEWSCHANNEL 9); the station is also carrying sports talk including OUTKICK's "HOT MIC WITH HUTTON AND WITHROW" and "THE PRESS BOX" in evenings.

Dave Ramsey Sued Over Promotion Of Timeshare Exit Company

Seventeen listeners to DAVE RAMSEY's syndicated show are suing the host for $150 million, alleging that he promoted a company that offered ineffective timeshare contract termination services.

The WASHINGTON POST reports that the allegations in the suit, filed in U.S. DISTRICT COURT for the Western District of WASHINGTON, claim that RAMSEY promoted TIMESHARE EXIT TEAM (also known as REED HEIN & ASSOCIATES) and was compensated as much as $30 million by the company, which went out of business after settling a suit by WASHINGTON state for over $2.6 million. The plaintiffs allege that TIMESHARE EXIT TEAM offered a 100% money-back guarantee but kept no money to pay any claims. RAMSEY is named as a defendant along with his company THE LAMPO GROUP (RAMSEY SOLUTIONS) and HAPPY HOUR MEDIA GROUP.

KFI/Los Angeles Podcast Looks At Antisemitism

A new limited-run podcast from iHEARTMEDIA News-Talk KFI-A/LOS ANGELES tackles the issue of antisemitism. "HATE: MODERN ANTISEMITISM" is produced by STEVE GREGORY and JACOB GONZALEZ and features former Congressman and present AMERICAN JEWISH COMMITTEE CEO TED DEUTCH, with SIMON WIESENTHAL CENTER Assoc. Dean and Dir./Global Social Action Agenda Rabbi ABRAHAM COOPER among other guests.

PD ROBIN BERTOLUCCI said, “I, along with others, recently watched in horror as anti-Semitic protesters were seen making Nazi salutes to passersby on the 405 freeway. As broadcasters, it is our duty to educate and inform our listeners and this podcast brings attention to the unseemly underbelly of Antisemitism which is sadly alive and well online and in our communities."

Barbara Mandrell To Receive 2023 CRB Artist Career Achievement Award

The COUNTRY RADIO BROADCASTERS, INC. (CRB) will honor Country music artist BARBARA MANDRELL with its 2023 CRB Artist Career Achievement Award. She'll be honored during the COUNTRY RADIO HALL OF FAME induction ceremony, set for MONDAY, JULY 10th at the VIRGIN HOTEL NASHVILLE.

The CRB Career Achievement Award is presented to an individual artist or act who has made a significant contribution to the development and promotion of Country radio and Country music through their leadership, engagement and creativity.

HOUSTON native MANDRELL was born into a musical family, and began playing the accordion before she could even read. She was a steel ... more »

Nate Smith Is Most Added At Country Radio With 'World On Fire'

Kudos to RCA NASHVILLE's NATE SMITH and his promotion team for landing the most added single at Country radio this week with "World On Fire." It debuts with 48 new adds this week among MEDIABASE stations, joining the three stations that went on the record early. The single, written by SMITH, ASHLEY GORLEY, TAYLOR PHILLIPS and LINDSAY RIMES is the follow-up to SMITH's first chart-topping single,  "Whiskey On You," which stayed at #1 for two weeks in late JANUARY and early FEBRUARY.

This week's only other new Country single, CARRIE UNDERWOOD's "Out Of That Truck" (CAPITOL RECORDS NASHVILLE), was close behind with a total of 47 stations, 44 of them new this week. LAINEY WILSON's "Watermelon Moonshine," was third most added, picking up 43 new stations, for a total of 106 MEDIABASE stations now on board.

The Country Music Hall Of Fame And Museum To Open New Eric Church Exhibit

The COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME AND MUSEUM in downtown NASHVILLE will present a new exhibit, "ERIC CHURCH: Country Heart. Restless Soul," exploring the EMI RECORDS NASHVILLE artist's path to stardom. The exhibit, which traces CHURCH's beginnings as a late-night bar singer and songwriter to Country superstar, opens JULY 13th, and will run through JUNE of 2024. It is included with museum admission. 

COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME AND MUSEUM CEO KYLE YOUNG said, "ERIC CHURCH has done it his way completely. His steadfast artistic vision and authenticity resonate deeply with audiences, and he continues to serve as an important collaborator and renegade ... more »

Endurance Music Group Adds Steven Singer To Team As VP/Catalog Development; Adam Gruss As Royalties Manager

NASHVILLE-based publishing company ENDURANCE MUSIC GROUP (EMG) has expanded its team with the addition of STEVEN SINGER as VP/Catalog Development and ADAM GRUSS as Label Royalties Manager, effective immediately. Both report to SVP MARK AHLBERG.

SINGER is a music industry veteran whose resume includes more than two decades at UNIVERSAL MUSIC GROUP. He also spent time at NAXOS OF AMERICA and, most recently, at SPIRIT MUSIC GROUP as VP/Digital Strategy.

GRUSS got his start in royalties with RAZOR & TIE in 2014 while living in NEW YORK. The label was later picked up by CONCORD MUSIC GROUP, where he continued for six years, and which eventually led ... more »

KSSN/Little Rock Wins Station Of The Year At Arkansas Country Music Awards

iHEARTMEDIA Country KSSN/LITTLE ROCK was named Radio Station of the Year at last night's (6/5) ARKANSAS COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS. TOWNSQUARE MEDIA KKYR (KICKER 102.5)/TEXARKANA's JIM WEAVER and LISA LINDSEY of the morning "WAKE UP CREW" were named Radio DJs of the Year. And, as previously reported, iHEARTMEDIA's nationally-syndicated BOBBY BONES (heard in mornings on KSSN) received the Millennial Award (NET NEWS 8/15/22), given to an Arkansan who, within the past two decades, has furthered the popularity and advancement of mainstream Country music.

The awards, held this year at REYNOLDS PERFORMANCE HALL on the campus of the UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL ... more »

Ronnie Milsap Announces Final Nashville Show Will Be A Star-Studded Celebration

Country Music Hall of Famer RONNIE MILSAP has announced his final NASHVILLE performance, OCTOBER 3rd at BRIDGESTONE ARENA. A star-studded lineup of more than 30 artist will join MILSAP in tribute and to celebrate his 50-plus year career. 

In addition to MILSAP, artists already on board for the show include KELLY CLARKSON, LITTLE BIG TOWN, PARKER McCOLLUM, JUSTIN MOORE, SCOTTY McCREERY, TRACY LAWRENCE, RANDY HOUSER, SARA EVANS, LORRIE MORGAN, NEAL McCOY, BRELAND, PHIL VASSAR, TERRI CLARK, BAND OF HEATHENS, CHARLIE McCOY, and more to be announced soon. 

MILSAP said, "I’m so excited about my last show in NASHVILLE at BRIDGESTONE ARENA and the ... more »

Audacy's Justin Cole Expands His Family

AUDACY Regional Brand Manager East/SVP Programming CHATTANOOGA JUSTIN COLE and his wife, MARTHABLAIR THOMPSON, welcomed a new addition to the family on JUNE 1st. SOPHIE NOELLE checked in at 6 lbs. and 13 ounces.

Mother and baby are doing great. Congratulate COLE here.

KPNW/Seattle Interviews Noel Gallagher About Feud With Brother Liam Over Oasis Future

HUBBARD BROADCASTING Triple A KPNW/SEATTLE hosted an interview with ex-OASIS guitarist NOEL GALLAGHER reacting to his brother LIAM's negative tweet of his rendition of "Love Will Tear Her Apart": "He should concentrate on what's left of his f--king hairdo..."

The discussion took place backstage with KPNW’s afternoon personality MARCO COLLINS from the WHITE RIVER AMPHITHEATRE in AUBURN, WA last FRIDAY (JUNE 2nd). 

During the opening night of NOEL GALLAGHER'S HIGH FLYING BIRDS and GARBAGE co-headlining U.S. tour, COLLINS exclusively sat down with the former OASIS member. The brief interview addresses the recent negative critique of his live ... more »

Smithsonian Folkways Records To Celebrate 75th Anniversary

It has been 75 years since FOLKWAYS RECORDS was founded by MARIAN DISTLER and MOSES ASCH in NEW YORK CITY, and to commemorate, the label, now SMITHSONIAN FOLKWAYS RECORDS, will be partnering with the BROOKLYN FOLK FESTIVAL and SMITHSONIAN FOLKLIFE FESTIVAL for “FOLKWAYS at 75,” set for JULY 6th, including live music performances featuring RAMBLIN’ JACK ELLIOTT and ALICE GERRARD, along with JAKE BLOUNT and NO-NO-BOY.

SMITHSONIAN FOLKWAYS is also partnering with the BROOKLYN FOLK FESTIVAL for a weekend of programming NOVEMBER 10-12 celebrating the label's 75 years. Performers range from those who recorded for ASCH and FOLKWAYS, including ELLIOTT, GERRARD, SONIA SANCHEZ, and PEGGY SEEGER, to newer artists including BLOUNT, DOM FLEMONS, CHARLIE PARR, and the DOWN HILL STRUGGLERS.

WXPN/Philadelphia Announces New Podcast Series To Support Black Opry Residency

In conjunction with BLACK HISTORY MONTH, UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA Triple A WXPN/PHILADELPHIA announces the launch of a new podcast titled ARTIST TO WATCH: BLACK OPRY RESIDENCY hosted by DJ and Writer JOHN MORRISON. The 5-part weekly series that begins THURSDAY, JUNE 8th, presents five stories of this year’s BLACK OPRY RESIDENCY participants including TYLAR BRYANT, DENITIA, GRACE GIVERTZ, THE KENTUCKY GENTLEMEN, and SAMANTHA RISE.

WXPN Associate GM for Programming BRUCE WARREN, said, “We’ve been focused on showcasing emerging talent through our ARTIST TO WATCH program for two decades. Building on that commitment, we really wanted to up our ... more »

Nessa Fee Joins WNJH (105.5 The Bridge)/Atlantic City As Community Engagement Specialist 

THE BRIDGE OF HOPE, INC. Contemporary Christian WKNZ (88.7 THE BRIDGE)/SALISBURY-OCEAN CITY, MD has hired NESSA FEE as its new Community Engagement Specialist based at WNJH (105.5 THE BRIDGE)/ATLANTIC CITY, NJ.

FEE comes from the PHILADELPHIA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH where she connected residents to resources.

She joins Director of Community Engagement BEN SORRELLS and Community Engagement Specialist MANDY WALLACE in this promotions role. They're excited to have a dedicated member who serves listeners at events in SOUTH JERSEY.

Family Life NY/PA Listeners Triple Goal For Bible Fundraiser

FAMILY LIFE MINISTRIES, INC. Contemporary Christian FAMILY LIFE NY/PA just wrapped up a 3-week radio campaign with BIBLE LEAGUE INTERNATIONAL. The goal was to raise enough funds to ship 2,000 Bibles to parts of ASIA for those who don't have access to GOD’s word. More than 6,100 Bibles have now been contributed, which was more than triple the goal.

FAMILY LIFE OD DAVE MARGALOTTI said, “Our on-air team did an amazing job and the team at BIBLE LEAGUE is incredible to work with. Our listeners are clearly passionate about delivering the truth of GOD’s word to our Asian brothers and sister in JESUS. But we all know the One who deserves all the credit and all the praise. To GOD Be the Glory!"

Taylor Swift-Matty Healy Romance Fizzles After One Month

Now that was SWIFT. The budding romance between TAYLOR SWIFT and THE 1975's lead singer MATTY HEALY is over, with their "lavender haze" now faded to black.

The couple has split, per TMZ, just a month after they were first spotted together as a couple, citing a friend who said SWIFT is now "single," without indicating a reason for the rupture. 

“They are both extremely busy and realized they’re not really compatible with each other,” the source said, adding "that friends aren’t shocked that their relationship fizzled out.” HEALY was spotted onstage smooching a security guard during the band’s performance in DENMARK. The couple were last seen ... more »

Jason Alexander Set To Headline WRCH (Lite 100.5)/Hartford's 25th 'Nite Of Lite Laughter'

AUDACY AC WRCH (LITE 100.5)/HARTFORD’s “NITE OF LITE LAUGHTER” returns for a 25^th year, with the special event “AS LONG AS YOU’RE ASKING: A CONVERSATION WITH JASON ALEXANDER.” Scheduled for NOVEMBER 3^rd, it’s a night of comedy, music and conversation at the city’s THE BUSHNELL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER. The fundraiser, which started in 1998, has raised over $950.000 and feted the likes of JAY LENO, JOAN RIVERS, MARTIN SHORT, LILY TOMLIN and many others over the course of its quarter-century.

ALEXANDER is, of course, best known for the role of GEORGE COSTANZA on the seminal television series SEINFELD and continues his multi-faceted career an actor, director, producer, writer, children’s book author, award-winning magician, semi-pro poker player and social-political activist.

Lou Mellini, Longtime KILO-KRXP/Colorado Springs VP/GM, Dies At 82

Longtime COLORADO SPRINGS radio GM LOU MELLINI died MONDAY (6/5) after a short illness at 82, according to the COLORADO SPRINGS GAZETTE.

MELLINI worked in sales for CBS RECORDS before joining KRDO-A-F/COLORADO SPRINGS as Sales Manager in 1978, moving to crosstown KILO in 1980 as Sales Manager, then GM. He served as Pres./CEO of BROADCAST RADIO NETWORK in 1989-92, returning to KILO (and, after an acquisition in 1999, KRXP) in 1992 as VP/GM, retiring in 2017.

Happy Birthday

ALL ACCESS Happy Birthday wishes on TUESDAY (6/6), to HUBBARD/ST. LOUIS OM and KPNT-KNOU/ST. LOUIS PD TOMMY MATTERN, former programmer KEVIN CRUISE, APEX/HILTON HEAD, SC GM MIKE BUXSER, KDJE/LITTLE ROCK’s COREY DEITZ, NEW WEST RECORDS JOEL HABBESHAW, SUGARBUZZ RECORDS Pres. NATALIE HAGAN, AUDACY/LAS VEGAS' JASON ADAMS, LIGHT MEDIA's MARY CATHERINE SNEED, WZAK/CLEVELAND's SAM SYLK, KZCE/PHOENIX’s DEANNA REGALADO, FULL POWER RADIO APD and WMRQ/HARTFORD’s AMY GREY,  WWZY-WBHX/MONMOUTH-OCEAN, NJ’s RALPHIE AVERSA, former WJMS/MEMPHIS’ EARLE AUGUSTUS, WMMR/PHILADELPHIA’s BRENT PORCHE, THE '90S WITH ALFONSO RIBEIRO’s DAENA KRAMER, BIG LABEL ... more »

ALL ACCESS ACTION

JIM WEAVER, LISA LINDSEY, BOBBY BONES, STEVEN SINGER, ADAM GRUS, NATE SMITH, BARBARA MANDRELL, ERIC CHURCH, RONNIE MILSAP, JUSTIN COLE, WARREN ZEIDERS, BAILEY ZIMMERMAN, JEFF RAFTER, MARK RIZZO, HOWARD STERN, BOB WAUGH, SCOTT DWYER, DJ EROCKALYPSE, HAZEL ZOLETA, RICO GARCIA, LORRAINE CARUSO, NICK ATTAWAY, KEN PITTMAN.