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Nielsen Completes Arbitron Acquisition Arbitron Will Be Rebranded Nielsen Audio 
Nielsen Holdings today announces it has successfully completed its acquisition of Arbitron. "This is a great day for Nielsen and a natural step in our evolution," says Nielsen CEO David Calhoun. "Arbitron will allow us to analyze and understand an additional two hours of the U.S. consumer's day while bringing us another opportunity to provide advertisers with metrics on the effectiveness of the mediums that they advertise on." Arbitron is being rebranded Nielsen Audio and will be integrated into Nielsen's U.S. Watch business segment, which provides information and insights primarily to the media and advertising industries across television, online, mobile and radio. "With Arbitron, Nielsen now measures eight hours a day per person of dynamic media consumption," says today's official announcement. “Our combined capabilities offer opportunities to measure unmeasured areas that are important to the industries and clients we serve, like streaming audio, out-of-home measurements for television consumption and deeper measurement of multicultural audiences in the U.S.," says Calhoun. "Globally, this is an opportunity to expand our measurement of consumer behavior and introduce audio measurement capabilities in new markets." As previously reported, Nielsen entered into an agreement on December 17, 2012 to acquire all of the outstanding common stock of Arbitron for $48 per share or a total of $1.3 billion purchase price, funded by cash on hand and recent debt financing. Nielsen expects $0.26 of accretion to adjusted net income per share during the first full year of operations, and $0.32 of accretion to adjusted net income per share during the second year, reflecting an incremental $0.06 in year two. Nielsen says it will update its full year guidance to include the impact of the Arbitron acquisition during its Q3 2013 earnings conference call, which will be held October 23. FTC Still Seeking Comments on Nielsen-Arbitron Consent Agreement Terms 
Although the FTC approved Nielsen's acquisition of Arbitron -- and today Nielsen closed on it -- the FTC is not yet done with the deal. "While the FTC has green-lighted the deal, it is insisting that the parties enter into a consent agreement. And now the FTC has requested public comments about the terms of that proposed consent agreement," reports Bradford Ham at CommLawBlog. He writes, " Anyone interested in offering the FTC their views on the proposed consent agreement may file comments with the FTC through October 21, 2013." In a September 27 post, Ham noted that the "FTC’s concern arises from the proposed acquisition’s potential for the complete elimination of competition in the cross-platform media measurement service market. (A cross-platform media measurement service can measure the audience of a “television” program regardless of whether or not it was watched on a traditional television set, or through online or mobile devices.) In order to offer cross-platform audience measurements on a national scale, a firm must have access to television audience data along with individual demographic data. Establishing the infrastructure to recruit and maintain a representative sample of the population and developing technology capable of collecting the underlying data would be extremely expensive." Ham adds, "The FTC has concluded that the acquisition is likely to cause significant competitive harms in the market for national cross-platform audience measurement services. In the consent decree, the FTC imposes several requirements on Nielsen designed to remedy those anticompetitive effects. The FTC is now seeking comments on those proposed remedies." We previously reported that as part of the agreement for FTC approval of its acquisition of Arbitron, Nielsen will divest a key component of its PPM technology that's been part of the "Project Blueprint" cross-platform audience measurement system being developed by Arbitron and comScore for ESPN. Ham noted that "since the FTC has technically approved the transaction (albeit subject to the terms of the consent agreement)," the deal was able to close. "However, any comments submitted to the FTC will be taken into consideration in determining the final nature and extent of the remedies the FTC will impose on the parties and how vigorously the FTC will enforce those remedies. Anyone interested in offering the FTC their views on the proposed consent agreement may file comments with the FTC through October 21, 2013." Read the FTC's conditions on the deal in a September 20 notice from the Federal Trade Commission here. Congressman Mel Watt Introduces 'Free Market Royalty Act' 
U.S. Representative Mel Watt of North Carolina, as expected, has introduced his Free Market Royalty Act, which creates a "performance right" that would obligate radio stations to compensate artists for the airing of their recorded music. In a statement, Watt says, "Airtime on AM/FM radio is no different from exposure on other mediums. Cable, satellite and Internet radio also promote artists to new audiences, yet all these services pay performance royalties because clearly the value in these relationships runs both ways. AM/FM stations profit from advertising revenue. Why do advertisers pay? Because people listen. Why do people listen? To hear the songs. For many stations, take away the music and you take away the audience." According to a summary of the bill issued by Watt, "Broadcasters like Clear Channel have said they want the marketplace and not the government to be the forum where the issue of performance rights is resolved. This legislation takes them at their word and allows all parties [broadcasters/webcasters and copyright owners] to negotiate in the marketplace. But it also provides equal rights and bargaining power to both sides, by allowing recording artists to refuse to license their music should they decide -- something they currently cannot do." According to Watt's summary, the bill continues to allow for certain exemptions for noncommercial and public radio, levels the royalty playing field for terrestrial, satellite and Internet radio, and ensures that performers and musicians will continue to share in 50 percent of the royalties generated by licensing agreements as they previously did under the compulsory license process.
NAB Responds to Introduction of 'Free Market Royalty Act' 
In response to Rep. Mel Watt (D-NC) introducing legislation today "that would negatively impact local radio stations across America," NAB Executive Vice President of Communications Dennis Wharton issued the following statement: "NAB respectfully opposes the legislation, and appreciates the support of 183 members of Congress who stand with America's hometown radio stations against the offshore record labels. NAB believes market-based negotiations like the recent Warner Music-Clear Channel accord demonstrate that this issue is already being addressed in the free market. This legislation would impose new costs on broadcasters that jeopardize the future of our free over-the-air service."
musicFIRST Coalition Praises 'Free Market Royalty Act' 
The musicFIRST Coalition released a statement praising the introduction of Rep. Mel Watt's Free Market Royalty Act Says musicFIRST Coalition Executive Director Ted Kalo, "The Free Market Royalty Act signals accelerating momentum for an AM/FM performance right and fair pay for music creators on all platforms. Like the 2009 Performance Rights Act, which passed both the House and Senate Judiciary Committees with broad, bipartisan majorities, this bill would end the decades old government taking of music creators’ performance property rights. It would, once and for all, establish a performance right for sound recordings broadcast over-the-air. The musicFIRST Coalition has been flexible in supporting a variety of approaches establishing a terrestrial right, including the 2009 bill, the 2012 Interim First Act, and this legislation. After saying no to each and every approach to date, the broadcasters have run out of excuses." Kalo adds, "We believe the current statutory license system is a benefit to music creators and services, and we support the current system. But those services who benefit most from it are its greatest critics, and those broadcasters who use the ‘market’ as a dodge to thwart a performance right have done the most to undermine a true, free market. Thank you again, Congressman Mel Watt, for your continuing leadership on behalf of artists and music creators." Nationwide 'Local Media Consortium' Plans Digital Growth Local Media Outlets Partnership to Roll Out Expanded Networks for Advertising 
A strategic partnership of leading local media companies -- representing more than 700 daily newspapers, dozens of major market television and radio stations, cable outlets and all of their affiliated digital properties -- is expanding again to leverage new opportunities for revenue and audience growth. The Local Media Consortium, founded in 2006 as The Newspaper Consortium, has begun re-signing members to new agreements aimed at increasing their potential share of new revenue and audience-building programs and pursuing new relationships with a variety of technology companies and service providers.
"We see this as the next step in the evolution, growth and perfection of our ability to digitally serve our audiences so we're delighted to be part of the national Local Media Consortium," says John Paton, CEO of Digital First Media, which operates more than 800 media products in 18 states. "Much work and thinking has gone into the next wave of the Consortium by some of the best minds in our industry, and discussions are now under way with some of the top digital companies in the world."
Nickelodeon's 'Nick Radio' Launching on iHeartRadio 
Nickelodeon and Clear Channel Media and Entertainment are launching Nick Radio on iHeartRadio. Nick Radio promises listeners will get "All the Hits, All the Slime," featuring today's hit music, guest DJ stints by Nickelodeon stars and Nick-branded entertainment and celebrity interviews. The new channel kicks off with
Jeff Brown Named Cumulus Atlanta Market Manager 
Jeff Brown is appointed VP and Market Manager for Cumulus Media's six-station Atlanta cluster. He joins Cumulus after more than 15 years at Entercom Communications, most recently as VP and General Manager for Entercom's Boston stations. He was previously VP/Market Manager at Entercom Portland. "Jeff brings high energy and an unequaled desire to win to our already successful Atlanta cluster," says Cumulus EVP/COO Jon Pinch. "We are confident Jeff will contribute significantly to Atlanta’s continued growth." Says Brown, "I am honored to have been selected as Vice President and Market Manager for Cumulus Atlanta. The team in Atlanta is driving growth on these power brands as we speak. I look forward to connecting with them and adding value to their already successful effort. Cumulus Media is making significant moves that are realigning the industry and I am in lockstep with their vision to widen the audio space. To say I'm fired up to be joining this growing content company would be an understatement." Clear Channel Philadelphia Names Samuel Tatum 'Power 99' LSM 
Clear Channel Media and Entertainment Philadelphia names Samuel Tatum Local Sales Manager for "Power 99" WUSL-FM, effective immediately. Tatum brings more than 14 years experience and was most recently Marketing Specialist at Radio One for both the Baltimore and DC markets. He was with Radio One in DC for 10 years. He previously was Digital Sales Manager, NTR Manager, and Local and General Sales Manager. "I am very impressed by the dedication and vision Tatum has to offer the company," says CCME Philadelphia VP of Sales Anthony Fuscaldo. "He will definitely have a positive impact on Power 99 FM sales performance." Market President Richard Lewis tells us, "Tatum has tremendous leadership skills and I know he will produce extraordinary results in the coming years. He is well prepared to take Power 99 FM to the next level." Says Tatum, "I am excited to join this great group of professionals and further build our exceptional brands and properties in the Philadelphia market. Clear Channel Media and Entertainment is a leading force in our industry, and I am proud to be a new team member of this organization. Our clients, customers and community are all top priorities for me, and I look forward to taking the City of Brotherly love by storm." Judge Tosses Challenge to Liberty's SiriusXM Takeover 
A lawsuit by SiriusXM shareholders against Liberty Media will not go forward. Delaware Chancery Court Judge Leo Strine has ruled the suit can't proceed in court, rejecting allegations against Liberty's takeover of SiriusXM, on the grounds that the investors waited too long to challenge the decision by the satcaster's Board to enter a loan agreement with Liberty. The agreement was reached in 2009, eventually leading to Liberty taking control of SiriusXM. Plaintiffs included the City of Miami Police Relief and Pension Fund. The 2009 agreement between Liberty and Sirius allowed Liberty to buy the satellite radio company outright in exchange for a $530 million loan at a time when the satcaster was in serious trouble and faced bankruptcy and a hostile takeover in 2009. Liberty eventually bought enough additional shares to effectively take control.
Cumulus CEO Lew Dickey: Rdio Partnership 'Makes Sense' 
Cumulus Media CEO Lewis Dickey and Rdio CEO Drew Larner discussed their recently announced partnership, speaking with Jon Erlichman on Bloomberg Television's "Bloomberg West." Dickey said the deal "makes sense." He again noted that the deal allows the two companies to focus on what he sees as the important aspects of digital audio -- music on demand. As for the national channels, Dickey said, “SiriusXM does that today and that’s what we’re going to create in partnership with Rdio. We’re going to take all the great content from the Westwood-Dial acquisition as well as the Cumulus brands like KFOG here in San Francisco and NASH, our big country brand, and create national channels that will be on there as well.” Larner said that unlike Pandora, his company’s deal with Cumulus allows it to bypass creating a national ad sales network. “We want to have an ad-supported product and think it’s important to be competitive in the marketplace and this allows us to jump right into it by accessing this amazing company that Lew has built in Cumulus Media and they will provide the ad sales function. But in addition, the other big element to this deal is the awareness element, meaning that, Lew has millions and millions of listeners every day on all of his channels and they'll be hearing a lot about Rdio and we think that’s a great opportunity to get the word out to people who would love the service."
Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio 
Knoxville's Active Rock "94.3 The X" WNFZ-FM is "on the move" to 95.7 FM, set for October 14. Previously it was reported that South Central Media's LMA with owner John Pirkle for WNFZ-FM "could be coming to an end in October" -- and now we learn it is indeed ending ... We previously reported that Classic Country WSM-AM, Nashville, GM Tom English had submitted his resignation from the station effective September 27. Now we learn that English has been named VP of Business Development for Warner Chappell Production Music ... "ESPN LA 710" KSPN-FM, Los Angeles, talk host Beto Duran is hired to be part of the Spanish-language broadcast team for the L.A. Lakers broadcast on the Time Warner Cable Deportes channel. The team says he'll contribute to live game day coverage.
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From Mark Harris Broadcast Consulting
Monday, September 30, 2013
Monday's Radio & Media News
"Sam and Cat" star Ariana Grande, Big Time Rush and Austin Mahone. The family-targeted station will be programmed by Sharon Dastur, Program Director for New York's "Z100" and will stream on Nick.com, iHeartRadio.com and the iHeartRadio digital app. "Nick Radio is the perfect place for Nickelodeon to serve kids with the music they love and entertain them with our great characters and funny content ," says Pam Kaufman, Chief Marketing Officer and President of Consumer Products, Nickelodeon Group.
"Our partnership with Clear Channel's iHeartRadio will allow us to further deepen our relationship with kids across this great platform." CCME President of National Programming Platforms Tom Poleman tells us, "It is such a great opportunity to work with Nickelodeon and create the first ever Nick Radio. The combination of Clear Channel's reach and programming expertise with the fun and dedicated audience of Nickelodeon is unique in the digital and on-air space. Introducing a family focused station like Nick Radio to the iHeartRadio platform and supporting it with an industry expert from Z100, one of the nation's top radio stations, is destined to be a homerun with both our listeners and Nick's viewers." Nick Radio, we're told, will also feature guest deejay stints by Nick Cannon, Cody Simpson and Jennette McCurdy, as well as other popular radio personalities including Z100's Mo' Bounce, Maxwell of Q102/Philadelphia, and Wendy Wild of 103.5 KTU, The Beat of New York, who will host the station's three dayparts, with Z100's Erica America on weekends. Nickelodeon plans to roll out additional programming showcasing the network's talent and content as well.
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Weekend Update
Report: iTunes Radio May Not Kill Pandora, But Has Advantages 
So far, "reviews for iTunes Radio have been quite positive," notes Brian Shaw in a report for The Motley Fool. Shaw adds that although "many initially dismissed iTunes Radio as an imitator, there are a number of reasons both subtle and obvious why it is a compelling option." After detailing those reasons, Shaw tells us, "As a longtime user of both iTunes and Pandora, I am hard pressed to find any aspect of the streaming music experience that is superior on Pandora. Even Pandora's long-touted recommendation engine doesn't provide it with an advantage; in an anecdotal test, I found myself pressing the thumbs down button in Pandora far more often than than the 'never play this song' button in iTunes Radio." The report notes that while both iTunes Radio and Pandora provide the ability to create customizable radio stations," iTunes Radio has an advantage "for existing iTunes users, including seamless access to past purchase and listening data to improve the song selections." Also, says Shaw, "Apple's user friendly interface has a number of simple, yet very powerful features that Pandora does not. A great example that I've discovered through use of the app is the ability to toggle between modes that focus on hits, discovery of lesser known tracks, or a mixture of the two. iTunes keeps track of the songs that have played on a user's station, allowing the user one-click access to purchase not only the song that is currently playing but also those that played previously. Similarly, a user can place a song on their wish list with ease. Guest DJs and suggested stations provide an excellent starting point for a user looking to try something new or get music streaming quickly. Apple's commercial-free version of iTunes Radio is priced at $25 per year, which is both cheaper than Pandora One's $36 per year and also includes iTunes Match cloud storage." Read Brian Shaw's full report for The Motley Fool here.
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For the third time in three months, a new record for total plays is established as Katy Perry's ROAR begins a third week at Number One on the Total Popular Music Friday, September 27, 2013
Friday's Radio & Media News - September 27, 2013
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SiriusXM 'Committed to Keeping' Howard Stern 
SiriusXM Radio is "committed to keeping" Howard Stern when his current deal with the satcaster expires at the end of 2015, CEO Jim Meyer told the Goldman Sachs Communacopia investor conference Thursday. But Meyer says he wouldn't extend the deal with Stern on a non-exclusive basis. Meyer said SiriusXM would like to continue its relationship with Stern as long as the radio host wants to work. Stern earlier this year said that he is planning to leave SiriusXM at the end of his contract that runs through 2015. The comment came after he failed to revive a $300 million lawsuit based on a contract dispute with the satellite radio company. "As long as Howard Stern wants to work, as long as Howard Stern is as motivated as he is today and makes his show as good as it is, we want him on SiriusXM Radio," said Meyer. But asked if he would extend Stern's contract on a non-exclusive basis, Meyer said "absolutely not." He explained, "We pay an awful lot of money for Howard. And every penny is worth that. We want to protect that exclusivity." However, he said he loves that Stern is doing "America's Got Talent" on NBC television as it helps the Stern and SiriusXM brand. But there could be no deal that would share Stern with terrestrial broadcast radio. Ford Acquires Connected Car Company Livio 
Ford acquires in-dash car connectivity company Livio, a maker of a platform for in-car apps, with a focus on audio and music services. Livio has told potential customers, "Think of Livio Connect as a liaison between your customers’ various apps and hardware devices. It’s a protocol that enables users to control today’s apps with their voice or fingers through the physical buttons on hardware equipment -- including enabled head units and consumer electronics." Paul Mascarenas, VP and Chief Technical Officer of Ford Research and Innovation, announced the acquistion of Livio during a conference call with reporters. Livio becomes a wholly-owned subsidiary and separate department of Ford Global Technologies. Although the price of the deal is not disclosed, it's being reported that it's believed to be "less than 10 million." Mascarenas said Ford was buying Livio for three main reasons: to acquire Livio's team of software developers, to gain access to the company's IP and to promote a single technical standard for in-car apps. "With the additional expertise Livio provides us, Ford intends to continue to lead the next generation of in-car connectivity with technology advancements that give consumers more options to access their devices on the go," said Mascarenas. "At Livio, our philosophy is centered on bringing customers more connectivity with less hassle,” says Livio CEO Jake Sigalo. “We believe this partnership is an excellent match, as it will give us the ability to work with Livio to provide customers even more access to new technologies in the vehicle infotainment space." Ford Global Technologies President and CEO Bill Coughlin adds, "Ford is acquiring Livio to advance connectivity for our customers and to lead the way in in-vehicle connectivity for the entire automotive industry." Livio's technology, we're told, provides an relatively easy way for developers to port their apps for in-car use. Ford Sync performs a similar function with its AppLink feature, although Mascarenas says Ford would work at combining the two "connectivity solutions" into a single industry standard. "It's about taking complexity out," Mascarenas said. "For us, standardizing in-vehicle connectivity really helps to ease the burden on content developers because they currently have to great applications using several different vehicle interfaces. A single standard lets them write software more efficiently. [Acquiring Livio] is another step in taking complexity out. It's a great match." Livio has a total of 11 employees, all of whom are now Ford employees. Katz Radio Group President Mark Gray Renews 
Katz Media Group announces that media executive Mark Gray has extended his contract as President of Katz Radio Group (KRG), its radio representation company. Gray started his career with KRG in 1988 as an Account Executive, and has since been promoted within the company to positions including General Sales Manager and VP. He became president of Katz Radio in 2001 before being promoted to his current role as President of KRG in 2006. "We are thrilled to have Mark Gray continuing in his role as President of Katz Radio Group," says CEO Mark Rosenthal. "Mark has a tremendous amount of success and experience in serving KRG’s phenomenal clients and his expertise continues to be a great asset for Katz Radio Group. Radio is a powerful national marketing platform and Mark extending his commitment to KRG solidifies the company’s further growth and intensified effort to create unsurpassed media solutions for clients." Says Gray, "It’s extremely exciting to continue my role at Katz Radio Group. KRG has the brightest talent and an exceptional client base. I look forward to leading our sales force and working with our broadcast partners to strengthen radio’s perception within the advertising community. Radio's story has never been stronger." Gray is a member of the Board of Directors for the Broadcasters Foundation of America. In this position, he manages corporate membership and leads Katz Media Group's annual employee membership drive. In recent years, Katz has raised more than $125,000 to aid broadcasters in need. Gray is also a member of the Radio Advertising Bureau’s Executive Committee and the Board of Trustees for the Alliance for Women in Media. Boston Celtics Move to '98.5 The Sports Hub' WBZ-FM 
The Boston Celtics are moving to CBS Radio's "98.5 The Sports Hub" WBZ-FM, Boston, in a multi-year partnership. WBZ-FM becomes the new flagship for the NBA team's games. The Celtics previously aired on crosstown Entercom Sports WEEI-FM. Beginning this season, WBZ-FM will air select pre-season games, and all regular and post-season matchups, as well as produce extended pre- and post-game shows focused entirely on the Celtics.
Kassof ListenerThink: 'In the Mood for Radio' 
In the fourth release from Mark Kassof and Company's 2013 "ListenerThink P1" study, we're told that listeners seek "mood" from radio. Mark Kassof writes today, "Tuesday, we reported that more than two-thirds of 18-64 listeners think radio is an important part of their lives. Yesterday, we reported that three-fourths pay a lot of attention when they listen. The question we answer today is: WHY??? What does radio deliver that makes it important and worthy of attention? Most programmers, I think, would answer music, news, sports, humor, contests, etc. All true, but there’s more than that. This month’s ListenerThink research explored the benefits that listeners get from radio…beyond only the elements of programming. In an online survey, we asked 989 18-64 listeners to rate 18 different motivations for listening to radio, on a scale from 'not at all important' to 'very important'."
Says Mark Kassof, "On that last item, I often find it helpful to throw at least one 'outlier' into questionnaires…things respondents are highly unlikely to agree with or appreciate. Still, one in ten listens to get angry! (Yes, Talk radio still has a future!) Fortunately, positive benefits are the biggest motivators. Unfortunately, few stations sell benefits in their positioning and promotion (including advertising). Other industries get it. Beer advertising sells male bonding, not just an alcoholic beverage. Resorts advertise escape, not just a hotel room. Revlon founder Charles Revson famously said: 'In the factory we make cosmetics; in the drugstore we sell hope.' What do radio stations advertise? All too often, attributes like 'less talk' - 'the biggest variety' - 'the ’90s to now' - etc -- not benefits! Yet years ago, Easy Listening stations had tremendous success positioning their stations as 'The Place to Relax' — radio’s #2 benefit. Could other formats sell mood elevation or energy or companionship or another major benefit? Of course they could…IF the benefit were major motivations for their target listeners. So far, we’ve just given you the 'big picture' of our P1 research. Next week, we’ll get into how P1′s of major formats differ -- not only in terms of the benefits they seek from radio, but also their attitudes toward radio and themselves."
FCC Commissioners Applaud Upcoming LPFM Filing Window 
With a Low Power FM (LPFM) filing window set to begin in October, the three FCC Commissioners -- Mignon Clyburn, Jessica Rosenworcel and Ajit Pai -- each have released statements applauding that opportunity. Acting Chairwoman Clyburn writes, "This is a very exciting moment. We are poised for a dramatic and historic explosion of diverse local voices on the radio band. I, for one, can't wait! Once again I extend special thanks to Congressman Michael Doyle and Congressman Lee Terry, as well as to Senator Maria Cantwell and Senator John McCain, the sponsors of the Local Community Radio Act of 2010. Without their leadership today's report and the nearing LPFM window would not be possible." She added, "I am hopeful that our implementation of the LCRA and adoption of various service, selection, and eligibility rule changes will result in the licensing of many hundreds of stations deeply rooted in their communities. In this regard I am most excited about two particular aspects of this window. The first is rule change designed to spur an increase in the origination of local programming content-- the gold standard for broadcasting. The second is the impact of those technical changes that will make FM frequencies available for the first time to nonprofit groups in most major metropolitan areas. I believe that the sustainability of the LPFM service is directly tied to its ability to attract listeners in our urban centers. Prospects appear good. These stations will be able to achieve significant coverage of densely populated neighborhoods. Moreover our great cities are teeming with extraordinary diversity. Most of these diverse groups, however, have no voice at all in the current media landscape. Providing an opportunity for ethnically and culturally diverse people to share their experiences and aspirations will enrich us all and strengthen our common bonds."
Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio
Country/Southern Rock "93.9 The Outlaw" trustee Joule Broadcasting (Formerly Volt Radio Trust) has returned WJXY-FM, Conway/Myrtle Beach, and 93.7 WXJY-FM, Georgetown, SC to the air as Conservative Talk "News Talk 93.9" with a fully syndicated lineup, reports RadioInsight.com ... "The Dan LeBatard Show" with co-host Jon "Stugotz" Weiner debuts on ESPN Radio, Monday (Sept. 30). LeBatard -- whose show originates from Lincoln Financial Media’s "790 The Ticket" WAXY-AM, Miami -- will continue to offer a local hour from 3-4pm, but goes national from 4-7pm ... After a week of stunting with All-Elvis, the former CHR/Top 40 "Kiss" WYDL-FM, Middleton TN/Corinth MS, flips to Classic Rock as “Rock 100.3“ ... Radio blogger Rich Lieberman is moving his relatively new radio show from "Memories and Magic" KOMY-AM to "Talk Back Radio 1080" KSCO-AM, Santa Cruz, airing 2-4pm, effective October 1. Lieberman (of "415 Media" fame) says, "More power to ya" ... Country "106.5 The Wolf" WDAF-FM, Kansas City, names morning co-host Codie Allen Music Director, a newly created position for the station ... Alternative Rock KHTB-FM, Salt Lake City, afternoon host Tysen Webb exits for an Account Executive position at crosstown News Talk KSL-AM ... Scott Morello is named Creative Services Director at Greater Media AC "Magic 106.7" WMJX-FM, Boston ... Hannah Byrom joins the cast of the syndicated CHR/Top 40 "Zach Sang and the Gang" 7-11pm ET show. Byrom previously was morning co-host at CHR/Top 40 "Z107-5" WAZO-FM, Wilmington, NC ... Cumulus Media News Talk WMAL-AM-FM, Washington DC, hires Rachel Sutherland for afternoon drive news anchoring, to take over from Mark Weaver, who is retiring as of today (Sept. 27).
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"We are excited to launch a new era of Celtics basketball with CBS Radio Boston, extending our audience reach with Celtics fans throughout New England and providing an enhanced promotional platform for the Celtics, our team sponsors, and advertisers," says Celtics President Rich Gotham. "In addition to enjoying the NBA's best play by play with Grande and Max, Celtics fans will also have the opportunity to hear directly from Celtics executives, players, and coaches through interviews and features throughout the season."
Says CBS Radio Boston SVP and Market Manager Mark Hannon, "98.5 The Sports Hub is thrilled to add Boston Celtics radio broadcasts to our line-up. The Celtics are a winning, world class organization and the perfect fit for 98.5 The Sports Hub. I look forward to growing the success of both organizations through this partnership." Additional Celtics daily and weekly programming will be featured on WBZ-FM throughout the season. Secondary game coverage will be provided by CBS Radio's Classic Rock WZLX-FM as necessary.
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Thursday's Radio & Media News - September 26, 2013
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Watchdog Groups to Challenge KDND-FM/Sacramento License 
Two media watchdog groups say they will challenge the license renewal of Entercom CHR/Top 40 "107.9 The End" KDND-FM, Sacramento, over the station's 2007 "Hold Your Wee For A Wii" contest that resulted in the water intoxication death of Jennifer Strange. In 2009, her family won a jury award of $16,577,188 in a lawsuit against Entercom Sacramento. Representatives for the Sacramento Media Group and the Media Action Center have announced that they intend to file legal challenges with the FCC before the November 1 deadline to contest the station’s pending eight-year broadcast license renewal.
Entercom Launches New Buffalo Alternative Station 
Entercom Buffalo launched a new Alternative Rock station today at noon -- "Alternative Buffalo 107.7 FM" on WLKK-FM. The new station promises to "connect the best of today’s modern alternative music with young, educated, white-collar professionals who are active, mobile, and always online." We previously reported that Entercom "News-Talk-Weather 930" WBEN-AM, Buffalo, said it would end its FM simulcast on WLKK-FM, September 26 at 12noon. Following the launch of the new format, Entercom Buffalo EVP and General Manager Greg Ried tells us, "Our station will reflect the best part of today’s Buffalo. From a revitalized downtown and a growing economy, to a strong sense of environmental protection, to a renewed sense of optimism and community, 107.7 is the New Alternative for a New Buffalo. We are building Alternative Buffalo 107.7 to compete and win. On Day 1 we will stand alone as the exclusive alternative station in Buffalo. With our unique sound, Alternative Buffalo 107.7 will target an audience in the heaviest acquisition years of their lives. Alternative Buffalo 107.7 will deliver modern consumers who need to buy and buy right now." Entercom Alternative Rock KNRK-FM, Portland Program Director Mark Hamilton is advising the new station, as the company launches a national search for a PD for "Alternative Buffalo 107.7 FM." Says Hamilton, "We conducted extensive local research in Buffalo and listeners were clear … they wanted an alternative, and they wanted modern alternative music. Alternative Buffalo 107.7 will play the very best in today's alternative music from artists including Mumford and Sons, The Lumineers, Muse, and fun." Ried previously said research showed that WBEN-AM listeners had mostly remained with "News-Talk-Weather 930" and didn't migrate to the FM frequency, justifying the end of the simulcast. Now he tells us that those who have listened on FM, he believes, will to return to the AM signal. "We are supremely confident that nearly all of our listeners will migrate back to AM over the next few days. Rest assured WBEN remains the premier news-talk-weather station in the market, and we will continue delivering on that promise." Mark Kassof: 'Radio Listeners: Paying Attention!'
Listeners don't just consider radio to be "background sound" but they actually pay attention to what they are hearing. In the third of a series of reports on this year’s ListenerThink P1 research, Mark Kassof today offers more of the good news for radio from the study. "One of the great things about radio is that it’s something listeners can do while they’re doing something else…working, driving, whatever. But don’t confuse that with thinking that radio is simply 'background sound'," writes Kassof. "This year’s ListenerThink P1 research -- 989 online interviews with 18-64 U.S. radio listeners, conducted September 12-15 -- reveals that listeners are very much engaged with radio, despite whatever else they’re doing." Three-fourths (76%) agree that "When you listen to radio, you pay a lot of attention to it." Of the overall "agree," 31% "agree strongly" with another 45% that "agree slightly." Only 22% "disagree" -- 18% "strongly," 4% slightly. And only 2% of respondents said they "don't know." Writes Kassof, "The bottom of this scale is every bit as telling as the top, with a mere 4% strongly disagreeing that they pay a lot of attention to radio! Listeners’ involvement in radio extends across demo groups. ..18-24 men agree least that they ”pay a lot of attention,” but still overwhelmingly agree – 69% do (26% strongly), while only 9% disagree strongly. They might change when they get a bit older…25-44 men pay the most attention to radio – 88% agree (36% strongly), while only 1% strongly disagree! So (as we saw yesterday), radio is important for the vast majority of listeners, and (as we see today) the vast majority pay a lot of attention to it. WHY??? Obviously, radio is a source of music, news, weather, sports, etc. But beyond those programming elements, we find that radio serves important personal and emotional needs for listeners. Come back tomorrow and we’ll share more of what we learned in our P1 research."
Official: Michael Savage to Replace Sean Hannity on Cumulus Stations 
Update: Cumulus Media Networks today (Sept. 26) announced that Michael Savage's "The Savage Nation" will "move to the highly coveted 3-6pm ET time slot beginning in January 2014 – bringing his unique brand of 'News, Views and Reviews' to drivetime on top radio stations nationwide. The Savage Nation will air on more than 200 affiliates of Cumulus Media Networks, including 60 stations owned and operated by Cumulus." Wednesday night, Savage made the announcement on his show, as we reported late last night:
CBS Sports TV Net Joins Bidding for 'Boomer and Carton' Simulcast 
Another player has entered "The Boomer and Carton Show" TV simulcast competition. The New York Daily News says the cable TV CBS Sports Network "has made a serious bid to acquire the TV rights to the WFAN morning drive-time show" hosted by Boomer Esiason and Craig Carton, "according to a CBS source." CBS owns both CBSSN and Sports Talk WFAN-AM-FM, New York. "CBSSN’s move follows the Yankees Entertainment and Sports [YES] Network making an offer to acquire simulcast rights to the show. The Madison Square Garden Network [MSG] is the show’s incumbent rights holder and has the contractual right to match any bid," says the report. "CBSSN's interest in 'The Boomer and Carton Show' simulcast has everything to do with network suits trying to beef up -- and bring some buzz -- to the programming lineup of the lightly watched national cable sports network," writes Daily News Sports columnist Bob Raissman. The report says that initially, sources said, CBS brass was seriously considering simulcasting CBS Sports Radio Network’s morning drive-time show, featuring Tiki Barber, Brandon Tierney and Dana Jacobson, on CBSSN, but CBS TV executives decided acquiring the rights to Esiason/Carton was a better play. WestwoodOne CEO Paul Caine Speaks on Ad Week Panel 
Speaking on a panel discussion titled "Kings of Content" as part of Advertising Week in New York City, Wednesday, WestwoodOne CEO Paul Caine promoted the expanding value of audio to advertisers as it moves beyond just the traditional AM/FM radio model. Caine was joined on the Ad Week panel by other industry leaders as they discussed the critical role content plays in this new era of media. In particular, Caine covered the reemergence of audio, the critical role audio plays in reaching today's more mobile and digital consumers, and the importance of delivering great content to consumers by building platforms which will engage them. During the session, Caine noted that content without the proper platform is not “king” -- that a respected and recognized platform is necessary to successfully deliver good content. Caine said that the industry needs to build both content and platforms that consumers want. In explaining the growing nature of audio, Caine said the newer forms of content are those people use when they aren’t able to view a screen or read. “We have to think about it as long-form, whether that’s an NFL game, which we broadcast, to short-form which is podcasting, to shorter-form which is social audio that can be put into bite-sized content and shared with your friends.” Caine said the many ways in which audio content is now packaged is good for advertisers. "Companies like ours have been growing in terms of our ability to reach more consumers." Steve Farber Promoted to Tribune Broadcasting SVP of Operations 
Steve Farber is promoted to SVP of Operations at Tribune Broadcasting. Farber, who has been acting GM of WGN-TV Chicago for the past year, will be responsible for overseeing operations at the company's national multicast networks, Antenna TV and This TV, the nationally syndicated Bill Cunningham Show as well as other operational assignments, including those associated with Tribune's acquisition of Local TV Holdings. Farber will report to Larry Wert, President of Broadcast Media, and stay in the WGN-TV post until a successor is named. Before WGN-TV, Farber was VP of Programming Operations at Tribune, having earlier worked at CLTV, the division’s 24-hour cable news operation in Chicago, since 1995. "I look forward to the opportunity of working directly with a growing number of stations across the United States, including the diverse set of affiliates for Antenna TV and This TV," says Farber. AdLarge Names Jackie Montagna National Account Manager 
AdLarge Media adds Jackie Montagna as National Account Manager. Previously, she was Director of Sales at TargetSpot. Montagna has also worked for OMD and Google, where she was East Coast Manager of the Audio Account Management Team and Account Executive of the Audio Group. "Jackie is an expert at helping agencies develop custom strategies for clients," says CRO/Radio Sales Don Wachsmith. "Her audio sales and advertising agency background gives her keen insight into how to maximize the power of audio to connect listeners with advertisers' brands. We are delighted to welcome her onboard." Says Montagna, "I am excited to be joining AdLarge during this tremendous growth phase for the company. AdLarge gives me the freedom to create customized advertising campaigns across traditional and digital channels, and that is important for achieving success in today's marketplace. Clients are looking for ways to engage their target consumers in relevant environments across multiple platforms." EVP/CRO Digital Eric Ronning tells us, "We are thrilled to have Jackie select AdLarge as her home. Jackie represents exactly what the market demands today-integrity; the confidence of clients and their agency partners; intelligence, which allows for creativity to meet client needs and demands in both digital and audio. She fits perfectly with the AdLarge strategy of individual representation." BFA Celebrity Golf Tournament Raises $235,000 
The Broadcasters Foundation of America raised $235,000 to help broadcasters in need at the 2013 Celebrity Golf Tournament this week at the Baltusrol Golf Club in Springfield, NJ. The funds come at a time when more broadcasters than ever are in need of assistance. The Foundation is expected to grant more than $850,000 in aid over the next year. The BFA has distributed millions of dollars in aid to hundreds of broadcasters who lost their livelihood through a catastrophic event, debilitating disease, or unforeseen family tragedy. More than 150 broadcasters and celebrities turned out for this year's Celebrity Golf Tournament in support of the mission of the Broadcasters Foundation, including 30 sportscasters, athletes, and actors. The tournament is one of the Foundation's biggest annual fundraisers. This year's co-Chairs were CBS Television Stations President Peter Dunn and Katz Radio Group President Mark Gray. Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio
When Entercom's WWWL-AM, New Orleans, rebrands and revamps its format, as well as dropping ESPN Radio for NBC Sports Radio, October 14, ESPN Radio will move to Coastal Broadcasting of Larose KLRZ-FM, Larose, as "100.3 ESPN" where it will replace "Rajun' Cajun" whose format is Cajun, Zydeco and Swamp Pop music. The station targets both New Orleans and the Tri-Parishes area ... Veteran Sports Talk broadcaster Dennis Glasgow joins Capitol Broadcasting as Program Director and Operations Manager in Raleigh of "99.9 The Fan" WCMC-FM, "620 The Buzz" WDNC-AM, "1550 ESPN Deportes" WCLY-AM, and "99.9 The Ticket" on WCMC-FM's HD3 multicast channel. Glasgow starts October 1. Most recently, he was PD for Pamplin Broadcasting's Talk KPAM-AM, Portland, Oregon. Before that, he was VP of Operations for Red Zebra's WTEM-AM, Washington DC ... Hot AC "Mix 107.1" KOGM-FM, Lafayette, Louisiana, taps Jai Rio for morning host beginning September 30. Most recently, he hosted mornings at AC "107.7 The Island" KSYZ-FM, Grand Island-Kearney, Nebraska ... Country "92.1 Hank FM" KTFW-FM, Dallas, hires Erin Wilde Burke as its new morning host. She previously was at Hot AC WMYB-FM, Myrtle Beach, SC, until June 28, when she relocated to Dallas to join her new husband, Christian KCBI-FM, Dallas, PD Joel Burke ... Alternative "Radio 105.7" WRDA-FM, Atlanta, adds market veteran Steve Barnes for weekends. He previously spent close to a decade in mornings at "99X" from 1994-2003.
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Media Action Center founder Sue Wilson -- producer of a 2009 documentary, "Broadcast Blues," that spotlighted Strange’s death -- said the groups intend to formally serve papers challenging KDND's license renewal when FCC Commissioners meet in Washington DC, on October 22. The group’s efforts are also supported by California Common Cause, which advocates on political transparency and media issues. Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Wednesday's Radio & Media News - September 25, 2013
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Mark Kassof: Now the Good News - 'Yep, Radio’s Important!' ListenerThink: Overall 70% of Respondents Agree Radio Is Important
After giving us the bad news yesterday, Mark Kassof today offers the first of the good news for radio from this year’s ListenerThink P1 research. "One of radio’s problems is that too many in the business don't recognize the power of their medium. They don't get just how important radio is to most listeners. I think this year’s ListenerThink P1 research will set them straight," writes Kassof. "It's based on 989 online interviews with 18-64 U.S. radio listeners, conducted from September 12-15th. The focus of this research is to explore the role of radio in listeners’ lives from many angles -- one of them, radio’s importance. As Joni Mitchell once wrote: 'You don’t know what you’ve got ’til it’s gone.' So we posed that possibility, and asked if they agree or disagree: 'If you couldn’t listen to radio, you’d feel something important was missing from your life'." Overall 70% of respondents agree -- 34% strongly, 36% slightly. Only 27% disagree, with only 10% of that total saying they disagree strongly. Kassof say the "bottom line" is "More than two-thirds agree that radio is an important part of their lives. And we see only small differences between demographic groups… 35-44′s and (especially) 45-54′s would miss radio most if it was gone; 18-24′s would miss it least. But even among 18-24′s, the majority (58%) agree that something important would be missing without radio. (Among 35-54′s, three-fourths agree.) Radio isn’t only important to the vast majority of listeners…it’s something they are involved and engaged with."
Bob Pittman: Advertisers Should Spend More on Radio, Less on TV 
The radio industry needs to better monetize its advertising inventory, says Clear Channel Chairman and CEO Bob Pittman. "The sector is way under-represented," while TV is over-represented in marketers' media mix, Pittman told the Goldman Sachs Communacopia investor conference in New York. Pittman noted that "TV is wonderful, is very effective, [but] doesn't deserve quite as much money as it has." People don't use TV instead of radio, but radio is under-represented in the advertising media mix. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the Clear Channel CEO said that TV spots draw three times the ad rates of radio spots, even though "all the studies show the impact is about the same." Says Pittman: "There is a huge opportunity in radio" which the industry needs "to monetize it better" and "sell it better." He cited the benefits marketers would see from moving 15 percent of their TV ad spend to radio. Pittman also said that radio remains the biggest mass medium in the U.S., while it continues to expand online and on mobile platforms. Radio has got "all the trends at its back," he said. "Radio is America's companion for all demographics. It's my wife versus my hobby." Radio's reach has been remarkably stable since 1970s, he added. Comparing Clear Channel's national reach with other media categories, he said, "we own 148 markets" in the U.S. and reach 240 million people. He also highlighted that the company is number one in reaching African Americans, followed by BET, in reaching Hispanics, followed by Univision, as well as mothers. Addressing competition from digital music service Pandora, Pittman said that "all of their stations together don't even make the top 10 in New York." And he argued that the consumption of radio and people's music collections are not cannibalistic, as studies show people use them at different times. Plus, 73 percent of people still say that broadcast radio is their main way of discovering new music.
Edison Research: Majority of Online Americans Listen to Internet Radio 
A new study from Edison Research shows that Internet Radio is now listened to by a majority of online Americans. "A consortium of leading Internet radio companies has united for the first time to collaborate on a definitive study of Internet radio consumption in the United States. The Streaming Audio Task Force, comprising Pandora, Spotify and TuneIn, engaged Edison Research to survey over 3,000 online respondents ages 12+ to ascertain their media usage and habits, and the results indicated that for the first time in history, Internet radio is used by the majority of online Americans (53%). In addition, the total time spent with audio is clearly expanding as people are now enjoying more audio from more devices in more places," writes Edison Research VP of Strategy and Marketing Tom Webster. The study -- "The New Mainstream: 2013" -- was originally presented at a special event collocated with Advertising Week in New York City on September 24, where Edison President Larry Rosin unveiled the results of the study and moderated a panel of executives from all three Streaming Audio Task Force participants.
CNet: iTunes Radio Outpacing Pandora 'At this pace, iTunes Radio beats Pandora in a month' 
"When iTunes Radio was unveiled in June, nay-sayers quickly denigrated Apple's late-stage attempt to enter the already-crowded arena of music streaming. But Apple gloated a little Monday when it announced iTunes Radio had notched more than 11 million unique listeners in the first five days since its September 18 launch on iOS 7 and the desktop iTunes software," says CNet. "That figure is nearly four times the number of unique listeners that Rhapsody -- the subscription-based music service that pioneered streaming when launched in 2001 -- had in July, according to ComScore. Rhapsody's unique listeners numbered just 2.89 million in that month." CNet says the "pace of iTunes Radio listener growth -- 11 million in five days -- also puts it on track to surpass the current leader of Internet radio in less than 30 days." The report notes that the leading streaming music service, Pandora, "had 64.9 million unique listeners in July, compared with 20.2 million for No. 2 Spotify, 14.4 million for iHeartRadio, and 5.4 million for Slacker." And writes CNet's Joan Solsman, "If Apple can keep up its momentum, it will have 66 million unique listeners in 30 days post-launch" putting iTunes Radio ahead of Pandora (and all the rest).
NYMRAD Set to Showcase NextRadio at Ad Week 
NextRadio, the industry initiative to make FM broadcast radio available on mobile phones, will take the spotlight in a special event presented by New York Market Radio (NYMRAD). The event takes place during Advertising Week tomorrow (Sept. 26) at the Times Center in New York City from 5-7:30pm. Says NYMRAD Executive Director Deborah Began, "With FM radio chips and the NextRadio tuner app, local radio stations can be broadcast over mobile devices without the costly data fees that come with streaming. Radio has always been a free, mobile medium, and this technology ensures that broadcast Radio remains the leader in audio entertainment and information.” The event begins with a one-hour panel of media, tech, and entertainment titans, who will explore the ground breaking arrangement between Sprint and America's broadcasters. New York Times Technology Columnist David Pogue will moderate a panel that includes Emmis Founder/CEO Jeff Smulyan, Sprint VP/Product David Owens, Columbia Records EVP/GM Joel Klaiman and RCA Records EVP/GM Joe Riccitelli. Following the panel discussion, NYMRAD will host a special “meet and greet” reception with New York radio’s top personalities. More about the event is available here. More Legal Opposition to Cumulus' Dial Global Acquisition 
Shareholders continue to announce potential legal challenges -- and one actual lawsuit -- to the Cumulus Media $260 million acquisition of Dial Global/WestwoodOne. Dial Global stockholder Guarang Shah and the law firm of Brodsky and Smith have now filed a class action lawsuit in New York state court, alleging the Dial Global Board of Directors breached its duties to shareholders in the terms of the merger. Also, Faruqi and Faruqui have issued a news release saying they plan to "investigate" Dial Global's board and its fiduciary responsibilities to shareholders. The news release says Faruqi and Faruqui is investigating whether DG's board of directors breached their fiduciary duties to shareholders by "failing to conduct an adequate and fair sales process prior to agreeing to this proposed transaction." Other such "investigations" have previously been announced by other law firms (which is par for the course in major media merger/acquistions).
Night Host Steve Kostan Out at Detroit's WCSX-FM 
Greater Media Classic Rock WCSX-FM, Detroit, night host Steve Kostan exits the station after 18 years, as his contract, which expires October 1, was not renewed. In a statement, Greater Media spokes Heidi Raphael says, "We have not renewed Steve Kostan's contract at WCSX-FM in Detroit. We are going in a different direction. We are very grateful to Steve for the contributions he made to the station over the years." Kostan tells us, "This isn't completely out of the blue. The vibe this year has been for everyone, that the glory days of radio have changed a little bit. I've had three different Program Directors in the last few months. It's hard to get to know someone in that time." WCSX-FM says Dave Dahmer will host nights on an interim basis until a replacement for Kostan is named. Kostan, who is also a musician, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011. APM Announces Carmen Wong Ulrich to Host 'Marketplace Money' 
After an extensive nationwide search, American Public Media (APM) today announced that personal finance expert Carmen Wong Ulrich will be the new host of Marketplace Money, APM's weekend personal finance program, with programs airing the weekend of November 2. Ulrich will be the signature voice of Marketplace's personal finance coverage across all Marketplace programs and online at Marketplace.org. As the host of Marketplace Money, she will be the face of the show's social media presence, interacting with the show's online audience daily and with the listening audience weekly via the nationally-distributed program. She will host the weekend Marketplace Money show, blog at MarketplaceMoney.org and appear on the daily Marketplace and Marketplace Morning Report shows.
Premiere Networks to Broadcast CMA Awards Preview Special 
Premiere Networks tells us its 2013 CMA Awards Preview Special will be hosted by reigning CMA Vocal Group of the Year, Little Big Town. The four-hour radio special, which airs in advance of "The 47th Annual CMA Awards" features music and interviews with Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Eric Church, Jason Aldean, Miranda Lambert, Blake Shelton, Thompson Square, Eli Young Band and Lady Antebellum, among others. In addition to presenting a live radio broadcast of the Awards telecast and red carpet interviews with the stars, Premiere will host the country's top radio groups and stations as they broadcast their shows from Nashville in the days leading up to the awards presentation. Last year's strategy resulted in triple the number of stations participating and doubled the reach to more than one million listeners, according to Premiere. "The 47th Annual CMA Awards" will air live from Nashville on ABC-TV at 8pm ET, November 6. Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio
Adult Variety Hits "92.9 Bob FM" KBEZ-FM, Tulsa, appoints veteran programmer Paul Kriegler as Program Director. Most recently, he programmed crosstown Alternative "Z104.5 The Edge" KMYZ-FM and Classic Hits "94.1 The Sound" KTSO-FM ... Summit Media rebrands Hot AC "103.7 The River" WURV-FM, Richmond, as "103.7 Play" with the slogan "90s, 2K and Today." Program Director Melissa Chase says research showed listeners were looking for more current hits in addition to music from the 90s and 2000s ... Cumulus CHR/Top 40 WZOK-FM, Rockford, Illinois, brings in Aricka Page to be morning co-host with Steve Shannon, replacing Andi Brooks who previously exited. Page arrives from WBTI-FM, Port Huron, Michigan ... Gulf Coast State College will drop its NPR affiliation from WKGC-AM-FM, Panama City, Florida, retaining their local programming and adding BBC News and American Public Media programming. The change is set for October 1 ... Cox Media Group "Lite Rock" AC "B98.5" WSB-FM, Atlanta, names Jeremy Powell as Producer of the "Jeff and Melissa" morning show ... Triple-A "105.5 Triple M" WMMM-FM, Madison, Wisconsin, Progam Director Pat Gallagher exits as the position is eliminated ... Entercom "News-Talk-Weather 930" WBEN-AM, Buffalo, says it will end its FM simulcast on WLKK-FM, September 26 at 12noon.
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Meanwhile, Pandora's Tim Westergren predicts only a "modest" hit from iTunes Radio. The Pandora Media co-founder made that assessment at the Goldman Sachs Communacopia investor conference in New York. Westergren said that half of Pandora users listen on devices other than those from Apple. "They launched with a huge marketing budget and no commercials, and Pandora's market share only continued to grow," Westergren said. But CNet said in a review last week that Apple has built a superior Web radio service for iPhones and iPads, and noted that Apple has access to more music than Pandora, with fewer commercial breaks and more relevant stations built around artists, genres and events. "ITunes Radio may be late to the party, but it's still better than Pandora when it comes to streaming programmed radio" on Apple's iOS mobile operating system, wrote CNet reviewer Jaymar Cabebe.
