Wednesday's Radio & Media News - September 4, 2013

Official: Dial Global Changes Name to WestwoodOne, 'Revives Iconic Audio Brand' Dial Global makes it official, confirming that it is reviving the "iconic" WestwoodOne "audio brand." The confirmation of the name change follows the recent announcement that the syndicator is being acquired by Cumulus Media. A new website at www.westwoodone.com now displays the new name with the new logo, and offers the full official announcement: "Dial Global, the largest independent national audio media company in the U.S., today announced that it has changed its name to WestwoodOne. The company will continue to lead the marketplace with unparalleled programming and client service under the esteemed WestwoodOne brand. The media company’s 225 million consumers will still have access to exclusive national radio coverage including: The NFL, Olympic Games, Barclays Premier League, and the GRAMMY Awards," says the announcement. “We’re proud of what we've accomplished as Dial Global. Through our belief in the power of sound we are dedicated to continuously reinventing the industry and creating the most dynamic audio programming that connects people to their passions," says Paul Caine, CEO of Dial Global. "With the audio industry's ever-changing landscape we know we’ve just scratched the surface of what’s possible for audio’s broad consumption. By reclaiming and reviving an iconic audio brand name, we are not changing who we are, but accelerating the great work we are doing to contribute to the growth of audio." We're also told that "As part of its commitment to the audio community, the company has commissioned an industry study on the 'power of sound,' aimed at better understanding consumers, their behavior, and their interaction with audio. The study builds on current recency data proving radio as the most used medium closest to point-of-purchase and will explore trends in audio consumption based on behavioral tendencies among various demographics. Full study results are expected to be released in the fourth quarter of 2013. Preliminary findings further the notion that audio is an integral part of the new media landscape." "Since Paul Caine took the helm of Dial Global in March 2013, the company has made significant strides in expanding its sports and entertainment programming and continued to develop innovative cross-platform marketing solutions, including: * An exclusive terrestrial, three-season partnership with talkSPORT, the world's biggest sports radio station based in London, U.K., to broadcast live coverage of Barclays Premier League, FA Cup, and Capital One Cup. * A major milestone for its NBC Sports Radio program; signing a total of 347 affiliate stations. * And the company's most recent announcement of its merger with Cumulus Media that is planned to be completed by the end of the year. "In the coming days, partners and consumers can expect to see a new website, social media presence, corporate logo, and marketing materials to reflect the new WestwoodOne brand." Last Thursday (Aug. 29). we told you "'Westwood One' Brand Is Set for Revival" -- but the one question was "how soon?" We wrote then, "MHBC is hearing that the radio syndication name 'Westwood One' will indeed be revived and returned to prominence. Sources say the only question now is the timing of the Westwood comeback. We're told that had tentatively been set for sometime in early September by Dial Global's latest new CEO, Paul Caine -- but the return of the brand may be delayed until DG is acquired by Cumulus Media. Our source this time is an insider at an advertising agency who says his agency, and others, have already been told the name change is coming by representatives of Dial Global. Since they received the first news of that, though, there are now indications that the revival of the Westwood name, previously retired by DG, may be delayed until Dial Global is sold to Cumulus Media and the two syndication operations are combined." Our August 29 report added, "Our source agrees with several recent reports that have circulated that the name change will ultimately be two-fold [in purpose] -- to bury the failed Dial Global name and to make the syndication offerings of the revived Westwood more attractive to radio stations not owned by Cumulus, similar to Clear Channel's use of 'Premiere Networks' for its radio syndication operation. Meanwhile, multiple reports indicate Paul Caine may remain when DG is acquired by Cumulus, taking charge of the combined syndication operation using the Westwood One name, which dates back to 1976." There's still no official word on Caine's future when the "merger" is finalized, but we continue to hear that he will indeed remain. TRN Opposing Dial Global/WestwoodOne Sale to Cumulus Media Talk Radio Network (TRN) says it is suing to prevent the Cumulus Media acquisition of Dial Global/Westwood One, and is launching an all-out campaign to stop the deal. Says TRN, Talk Radio Network Enterprises LLC and its affiliates Talk Radio Network-FM, Talk Radio Network Entertainment, America's Radio News Network, National Weekend Radio Syndications and Talk Radio Network Operations are suing Dial Global in New York and Oregon, alleging that DG has violated antitrust laws. Following the announcements of Dial Global's pending acquisition by Cumulus Media, and its name change to WestwoodOne, TRN issued a news release announcing its opposition to the deal. TRN says that over the past five years "Dial Global has become a monopoly" and "has engaged in a long list of illegal and unethical behavior, including failing to pay us our share of advertising revenues generated by our programming." TRN adds, "We believe that discovery in our actions will show that Dial's conduct was part of a deliberate strategy to acquire or destroy viable companies by interfering with revenue streams that Dial controls as a result of its monopoly power. We will continue to pursue our claims against Dial vigorously, and we will take all necessary actions to oppose Cumulus's proposed acquisition, including in our pending litigation with Dial, with appropriate governmental authorities, and in the media." TRN says it is calling on the radio industry to join them in opposing the Cumulus-DG deal. "In our view, if the transaction goes forward, the combined company could dominate both the radio station platforms in the top-100 markets and the talk and news content for broadcast in those markets. At the same time, we are concerned that Dial's history of illegal and unethical conduct could infect Cumulus and affect the way the merged entity does business. The threat that this merger poses is not just to us. It is to every independent content provider, to many other members of the industry, and more generally to a vibrant marketplace of ideas on radio." TRN also tells us that it "will take all necessary actions to oppose Cumulus’ proposed acquisition, including in our pending litigation with Dial, with appropriate governmental authorities, and in the media. We have heard from other members of the industry with similar concerns. Given the implications for others, we encourage all independent content providers and other affected members of the industry to rise up and express opposition in every proper forum." Law Firms Investigate Shareholder Issues with Cumulus-Dial Global Deal TRN is not the only source of possible interference with the quick closing of the Cumulus acquisition of Dial Global, newly renamed WestwoodOne. Several law firms are threatening potential lawsuits from Dial Global shareholders. The law firms say they are "investigating, on behalf of the shareholders," if Dial Global did its best to shop for the best possible deal for the company. So far, at least three law firms have announced that they're investigating possible legal claims over alleged breaches of fiduciary duties by Dial Global. San Francisco's KOIT-FM Names Brian Figula Program Director Entercom AC KOIT-FM,San Francisco names Brian Figula to be its Program Director, effective September 10. Figula most recently was PD of Greater Media AC WMGC-FM, Detroit, until it flipped to Sports Talk. At KOIT-FM, Figula replaces Andy Holt, who exited earlier this summer. "We are thrilled to have Brian, one of the premier AC programmers in the country, join us to build on the outstanding legacy left by Andy Holt at KOIT," says Entercom San Francisco VP and General Manager Dwight Walker. "Brian has demonstrated creativity and innovation in connecting with listeners in Michigan. Now KOIT's 1.5 million Bay Area weekly listeners are about to experience it." Says Figula, "Congratulations to Andy Holt and the entire 96.5 KOIT team on building the Bay Area's Number One radio station. KOIT is such a heritage brand with an amazing audience, talented air staff, and great advertising partners. I'm thrilled to have this opportunity to join the Entercom family." Figula previously spent more than10 years in programming and music direction in Michigan including PD stops at WGER-FM, Saginaw and WDVD-FM, Detroit, prior to WMGC-FM. Mark Rosenthal Named Katz Radio Group CEO Katz Media Group announces that veteran media executive Mark Rosenthal has been named CEO of Katz Radio Group, its radio representation company. Rosenthal, who was part of the original team that created MTV, Nickelodeon, VH1 and Comedy Central, has been a leader in the media industry for more than 25 years, building advertising and marketing solutions for world-class media brands. In this new position, Rosenthal will oversee Katz Radio Group, working closely with President Mark Gray and the KRG team to ensure continued high-level performance in the transactional arena. Rosenthal will also focus on KRG’s radio advocacy efforts and lead an accelerated charge to bring additional revenue into the radio sector. He will report to John Hogan, Chairman/CEO of Clear Channel Media and Entertainment. "We are thrilled to have such a well-respected media executive join Katz Radio Group. Mark has an enormous range of experience across all forms of media, from traditional and digital media to the agency world," says Hogan. "Radio is a powerful national marketing platform. Our goal is to continue to tell the success story of radio's massive reach. Mark joining the team signifies a very exciting step forward in our intensified effort to drive substantial growth for Katz clients by providing the most innovative media solutions available." For nearly a decade, Rosenthal was the President/COO of Viacom's MTV Networks. Following his tenure at MTV Networks, he served as the Chairman/CEO of Interpublic Media, part of the Interpublic Group, an organization of advertising agencies and marketing service companies. Rosenthal then joined Internet company Spot Runner, where he was Vice Chairman/President of Media Platforms. In 2009, Current Media's co-founders, Al Gore and Joel Hyatt, selected Rosenthal to become CEO of the cable network and online destination. "It's extremely exciting to be joining such a fantastic team," says Rosenthal. "With new and impressive research showcasing radio’s true power and unique capabilities, now is a phenomenal time to join KRG and grow the business. My goal is to take an already superb company to the next level by bringing more money into the radio sector and creating unsurpassed media solutions for Katz clients." Fresno's 'Q97.1' to Launch 'Greg and Dre Morning Show' Buckley Radio announces the September 9 launch of the "Greg and Dre Morning Show" at Rhythmic CHR "Q97.1" KSEQ-FM, Fresno. The show will feature two new Buckley hires -- Andre Covington and Greg Hoffman. "Greg aned Dre" were the morning hosts on crosstown Clear Channel Rhythmic CHR KBOS-FM since 2001 until just recently. In addition, Hoffman was their former station's Program Director for almost 10 years. He also programmed Clear Channel's Fox Sports Radio and "La Preciosa" stations. Hoffman started his radio career in 1994 at "Hot 104.7" in Merced/Modesto. Covington is a successful comedian and came on board to be part of the morning show in 2000 before it moved to KBOS-FM. Says Buckley Fresno General Manager John Sterling, "Greg and Dre have incredible chemistry that blends wit and charm with a true passion to entertain and inform our community. These two Radio personalities are truly the best in the business." Buckley EVP Kathy Baker adds, "With our hire of Greg Hoffman earlier this month, Andre Covington completes the morning team who have had a very successful 12 year history together in the Fresno market. We are extremely excited to have this morning team in place and look forward to a long relationship with these two very talented radio personalities who will now be heard each morning on KSEQ Q97.1." Fox News Radio Renews with SiriusXM, Content Added to SiriusXM Internet Radio Fox News Radio and SiriusXM announce they have signed a deal to keep Fox News content on the satellite radio service through 2019. And, as part of a new agreement, SiriusXM will also broadcast Fox Business Network. SiriusXM will be the exclusive audio home for broadcasts of Fox News and Fox Business Network for its more than 25 million subscribers. As part of the agreement, SiriusXM will add both channels to its SiriusXM Internet Radio channel lineup for the first time. The new agreement also includes the addition of Fox News Talk to the SiriusXM Internet Radio service. Fox News Talk, which offers news, analysis, listener call-ins, and commentary from popular Fox News personalities such as Brian Kilmeade, John Gibson and Alan Colmes, among others, will be available online at SiriusXM Internet Radio and through the SiriusXM Internet Radio App on smartphones and other connected devices. Says Fox News Chairman and CEO Roger Ailes, "Our viewers love the ability to keep the connection with Fox News Channel, even while they’re in the car with SiriusXM. This agreement not only ensures that will continue but expands it to our Fox Business Network viewers and restores the Fox News Talk channel to SiriusXM subscribers on their computers and smartphones. This is good for Fox News, for SiriusXM and for the people we both work for, the American public." Fred Jacobs: 'Miley Cyrus, Rock Needs You' In a new JacoBlog post, Jacobs Media President (and founder) Fred Jacobs says that Rock needs a Miley Cyrus. "OK, I'll say it – Rock 'n' Roll needs Miley Cyrus. Or someone who is outrageous, ridiculous, fun, and willing to pretty much do and say anything," writes Jacobs. "When the best thing a musical genre has going for it is the news that 70 year-old Paul McCartney plans to continue touring, that's a definite message about where things are headed. Now you may look at Miley's latest antics at the VMAs and be outraged. Of course, MTV couldn't be happier – her performance was better than Fart Man and it couldn't have come at a better time for a network that doesn't make the news like it once did. And if you're thinking that this planned, contrived, and calculated stunt is just a bunch of pop star hype, remember what put Rock 'n' Roll on the map in the first place." Jacobs then offers examples of that contention from the past: "It was John Lennon announcing that the Beatles were greater than Jesus. It was Keith Moon trashing hotel rooms. It was Jim Morrison exposing himself on stage (or did he?). It was Ozzy biting the head off a bat (or a dove). It was Iggy Popp cutting himself in concert. It was KISS ... well, being KISS." But writes Jacobs, Rock now has only bland news for the genre. "Now the news is about Joe Walsh has cleaned up his act, is touring successfully with the Eagles, and not trashing hotel rooms. Where's the fun in that? Today, nothing much happens in the world of Rock that makes headlines capable of cutting across all media, demographics, and lifestyles. If you ask your grandmother about Miley's performance last month, she'll tell you all about it. When it comes to Pearl Jam's new song, it’s not exactly dinner table conversation. There simply isn't a rock band from the past decade that has cut through with outrage, anger, or humor that has caused people to sit up and notice. And you can't rely on a bunch of 60 and 70 year-old Classic Rockers to reprise their revolutionary youths and act crazy again. Rock 'n' Roll was born out of rebellion, angst, and angst. Today, those emotions have all left town. Rock 'n' Roll could use someone like Miley Cyrus – someone to talk about, to love, to hate, to defend, to criticize." NABEF Announces 2013 Congressional Golf Classic The National Association of Broadcasters Education Foundation (NABEF) will host the second annual Congressional Golf Classic on Monday, September 30, at Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course at the Club at Creighton Farms in Aldie, Virginia. We're told, "The tournament enjoys broad participation by area golfers, broadcast industry professionals, and communications policymakers. All proceeds benefit NABEF, a non-profit organization that offers educational programs and supports scholarships and fellowships to prepare professionals, including women and people of color, for leadership in the broadcast industry." Says NABEF President Marcellus Alexander, "The Congressional Golf Tournament is a day of fun that supports NABEF's mission of promoting education and advancing diversity in the broadcast community. We appreciate the involvement of golfers of all skill levels and our generous sponsors." Leading the golf Steering Committee this year are Honorary Co-Chairs Congressman Ron Kind (WI-3) and Senator Saxby Chambliss (GA). The Captain's Choice Scramble tournament will feature contests such as longest putt, closest to the pin, longest drive, hole-in-one and a putting competition. Tournament sponsors include Axis Capital, CBS Corporation, Clear Channel, Disney, Entertainment Industries Council, Fox, Freeman Co., Motion Picture Association of America, NBC Universal, Polsinelli LLP, The Fritts Group, The O Team, T-Mobile, Wiley Rein LLP and Wilkinson Barker Knauer LLP. For more information, visit the tournament website.. WAAF-FM/Boston Preps for Patriots and NFL Coverage "Boston's Rock Station" WAAF-FM tells us that the "Hill-Man Morning Show" will once again feature on-air interviews with several core New England Patriots players on Fridays as part of its fall football programming lineup. The "Hill-Man Huddle" will feature interviews every Friday during the regular Patriots football season, which kicks off this Sunday (September 8) in Buffalo, New York, against the Bills. Pats wide receiver Julian Edelman, left tackle Nate Solder, defensive back Devin McCourty, left guard Logan Mankins and linebacker Jerod Mayo will each call into the station at different times between 5:30 and 10am to offer their insights into that weekend's upcoming game. 'Football Sunday' on ESPN Radio Debuts September 8 ESPN Radio will air "Football Sunday" beginning September 8 from 1-7:30pm. ESPN Radio host and SportsCenter anchor Jonathan Coachman will host the entire show, joined throughout by several ESPN analysts, including long-time contributor to ESPN Radio programming Eric Allen, who returns, as does Tim Hasselbeck for his second year. Tom Waddle, former Chicago Bears wide receiver and current "ESPN Chicago 1000" weekday host, makes his national ESPN Radio debut on September 8 and will appear on the show every week during the regular season. "Football Sunday" on ESPN Radio will feature reports throughout the day from ESPN and local ESPN Radio affiliate reporters, and updates from "ESPN New York 98.7 FM" and "ESPN Chicago 1000 AM" analysts. Also, discussion, analysis and insight from Coachman, Allen, Waddle and Hasselbeck. The program will be heard on broadcast ESPN Radio outlets, SiriusXM Channel ESPN 84, ESPNRadio.com, the ESPN Radio app, Tune-in and Slacker. Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio CHR/Top 40 "Hot 99.5" WIHT-FM, Washington DC, night host Rob Kruz moves to CHR/Top 40 "Z 104.3" WZFT-FM, Baltimore, for APD/MD and afternoon host ... Adult CHR/Top 40 "Mix FM" WMGI-FM, Terre Haute, Indiana, appoints Shawn Powers as its new Brand Manager replacing Natalie Randall beginning September 16. Most recently, he was with NextMedia Canton as PD and afternoon host at Hot AC "Mix 94.1" WHBC-FM ... Former WBTU-FM, Fort Wayne, Indiana, Promotions Director and morning host Dave B. Goode joins crosstown Hot AC "Majic 95.1" WAJI-FM and Classic Hits WLDE-FM as the new Group Promotions Director. Goode will also host nights on "Majic 95.1" ... Rhythmic CHR "The Blaze" KBLZ-FM, Tyler-Longview, Program Director and afternoon host Luscious Ice exits for afternoons at crosstown Urban AC KISX-FM. Meanwhile, Dave Moreland, PD at sister CHR/Top 40 KAPW-FM, adds Program Director duties for KBLZ-FM ... Midday host Leigh McNabb adds Assistant PD/Music Director at CHR/Top 40 "Kiss" WXSS-FM, Milwaukee ... Country "Kicks 101.5" WKHX-FM, Atlanta, morning co-host Jerry "Tug" Cowart is named to afternoons replacing 14-year station vet and APD/MD Mike Macho. Cowart most recently hosted mornings with Cadillac Jack and Dallas McCade. Cowart's morning position along with Macho's APD/MD role have been eliminated ... Country WKSF-FM/Asheville, NC, Director of Promotions and evening host Aaron Michaels moves to co-owned Country WSSL-FM, Greenville, SC, as Digital PD/Promotions Assistant and afternoon host replacing Paul Stone, who has relocated to Nashville ... Country WOKA-FM, Douglas, Georgia, morning host Matt Baldridge is appointed Director of Promotions for State Broadcasting's five-station cluster in Dublin, Georgia. Baldridge will also host mornings on Country WQZY-FM with current midday host Krystal Fountain as "Matt And The Morning Mayhem". TPM Component Charts The latest TPM Component Charts -- CHR/Top 40, Hot AC, and AC -- from BDSRadio are online at MHBC's TotalPopularMusic.com. New National Airplay Charts for the three formats are published every Wednesday by Nielsen BDS and automatically updated on our dot com website. Currents and recurrents are listed for each format. And we also have the "Indicator Charts" for each sub-division of "Total Popular Music"! [The weekly BDSRadio charts are offered in addition to our "Daily U.S. Radio Airplay Updates" powered by Mediabase.] COVERS THE WORLD OF HIT MUSIC FOR RADIO Weekly Component Charts From BDSRadio CHR/Top 40 Hot AC/Adult Top 40 Adult Contemporary Plus: Daily U.S. Radio Updates [Powered By Mediabase] Daily Radio Airplay Charts: Top 40/Pop, Hot AC, AC Plus Many Other Formats! Available to Our Readers From The Total Popular Music Network In Association with KWORB.NET