Carr Testifies On Capitol Hill, Backs The AM Act

FCC's Brendan Carr

FCC chair Brendan Carr testified Wednesday before the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government, updating lawmakers on the agency’s progress. 

In opening remarks, Carr outlined his priorities since his appointment by President Trump in January, including deregulation, workforce adjustments, and restoring congressional spectrum auction authority. He faced questions from Democrats about targeting DEI policies and perceived actions against media outlets critical of Trump.

Carr highlighted the FCC’s “Delete, Delete, Delete” initiative to eliminate outdated regulations, noting positive stakeholder feedback. He reported a staff reduction from 1,461 to 1,383 through natural turnover, early retirements, and a deferred resignation program. 

Carr urged Congress to reinstate the FCC’s lapsed spectrum auction authority, emphasizing its $230 billion revenue history and role in national security, including funding the “Rip-and-Replace” program to remove insecure equipment from Huawei and ZTE. He also mentioned an upcoming vote to ensure labs certifying imported electronics are trustworthy.

On media ownership, Carr stressed the need to empower local broadcasters, citing outdated FCC rules that hinder stations like one in Powell, Wyo., from providing local content. He encouraged feedback on regulations that burden smaller broadcasters, responding to Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-Iowa) about competition challenges faced by Coloff Media against larger entities like iHeartMedia.

Carr expressed strong support for AM radio, backing the AM Radio for Every Vehicle legislation and addressing electric vehicle interference concerns with affordable shielding. Rep. Mark Alford (R-Mo.) praised Carr’s efforts to hold broadcasters accountable, citing CBS’ edited interview with Kamala Harris. Carr emphasized that licensed broadcasters have a public interest obligation, which he believes the FCC has underenforced.

Democrats, including Ranking Member Steny Hoyer (D-Md.), raised concerns about the FCC becoming politicized, accusing it of targeting outlets like NPR, PBS, and major networks perceived as unfavorable to Trump. Carr also addressed inquiries about public media investigations, focusing on whether NPR and PBS stations violated underwriting rules by running prohibited commercials.

Drivers Value Audio Access In Next-Gen Vehicles

Despite the rise of high-tech infotainment systems and AI-powered dashboards, local AM/FM radio remains the preferred companion for American drivers, according to Audacy’s “Audio Access: What Drivers Value Most in Next-Gen Vehicles” study, the fifth wave of its Connected Car research from 2021 to 2025.

The study reveals that drivers prioritize audio, especially local radio, for news, entertainment, and community connection, even as in-car technology advances.

Radio’s Human Connection Endures

Ninety percent of listeners rely on local radio for breaking news, surpassing social media and smartphone apps. “Radio offers a human connection that apps and algorithms can’t replicate,” the study notes. “Local hosts share the same traffic jams, cheer for local teams, and talk about the weather.” This resonates deeply, with 89% of connected car users wanting their favorite local stations and personalities while driving.

 
Radio’s reach now extends beyond geography, with 44% of drivers using apps like Audacy’s to tune into stations like WFAN in Los Angeles or WXRT in Miami, enhancing accessibility.

NBCUniversal Bids for MLB Rights Dropped by ESPN

In February, ESPN and Major League Baseball (MLB) mutually agreed to end their 35-year partnership after the 2025 season, opting out of the final three years of a seven-year, $550 million-per-season contract. 

The decision stemmed from MLB’s dissatisfaction with ESPN’s reduced coverage outside live games and ESPN’s fiscal strategy to prioritize cost-effective sports rights. The package included 30 regular-season games (primarily “Sunday Night Baseball”), the Home Run Derby, and wild-card playoff games, which drew 1.5 million viewers on average last season.

Now comes word NBCUniversal’s Bid NBCUniversal, a Comcast subsidiary, has submitted a bid to acquire this MLB rights package, offering significantly less than ESPN’s $550 million annual fee, according to The Wall Street Journal. 

The bid covers regular-season games, postseason games, and the Home Run Derby, with plans to air games on NBC Sunday nights post-2025 and stream them on Peacock. Discussions with MLB, including talks with Comcast CEO Brian Roberts, began weeks earlier. NBC’s interest aligns with its strategy to bolster year-round sports programming, complementing its NFL “Sunday Night Football” and upcoming NBA games starting in 2025, which will air on Tuesdays and exclusively on Peacock on Mondays.

NBC’s bid reflects its aim to secure premium Sunday night sports content, potentially filling the summer gap left by football and basketball. The network previously broadcast MLB games from 1947 to 1989, covering 37 World Series, and briefly in 2022 via Peacock’s “MLB Sunday Leadoff.” 

NBC also owns regional sports networks airing local MLB games, making it a familiar partner. However, its lower offer acknowledges the package’s reduced scope compared to ESPN’s deal, which included radio and international rights. Other potential bidders, like Amazon, Netflix, or smaller networks like The CW, may also vie for the rights, with some suggesting MLB could split the package to maximize revenue.

Study: News Consumption Habits Influence Viewers Sentiments

Media may not shape Americans’ opinions, but news consumption habits reflect their sentiments, according to Mediapost citing a Numerator study conducted in May 2025.

Viewers of legacy networks like CBS, NBC, and ABC describe the country as "chaotic," "struggling," and "troubled." In contrast, conservative media viewers, such as those watching Fox News or Newsmax, see it as "divided," "better," or "hopeful."

Economically, 6.7% of Fox News viewers say, “This is the best we’ve ever been doing,” compared to the 3.4% national average. Additionally, 12.7% of Fox viewers say, “We’re doing pretty well,” and 46.8% say, “We are doing just fine.”

On the other hand, only 2.7% of PBS viewers believe “This is the best we’ve ever been doing,” with 10.5% saying they’re doing pretty well. Among CNN viewers, 2.3% feel they’re doing better than ever, 8.7% say they’re doing pretty well, and 36.9% report doing just fine. CBS viewers are the least optimistic, with only 0.3% saying they’re doing better than ever, 6.3% saying they’re doing pretty well, and 33.5% saying they’re just fine.

Numerator’s chief economist, Leo Feler, notes, “As a country, we’re highly polarized in our news sources. Those relying on legacy networks tend to be more pessimistic.”

The study surveyed 2,000 Americans.

Charlamagne Tha God Accuses Jake Tapper of Being Complicit

Influential radio host Charlamagne Tha God claimed that CNN and anchor Jake Tapper played a role in hiding former President Joe Biden’s health decline from the public. 

Fox News Digital reports the critique coincides with the release of Tapper’s book, Original Sin: President Biden's Decline, Its Cover-Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again, on May 20, 2025. Tapper acknowledges in the book that he underreported Biden’s health issues, but Charlamagne and others remain critical.

“I’m interested in the Biden stuff because Jake Tapper’s book, Original Sin, came out today, and I’m looking forward to reading it. It talks about how Biden’s inner circle hid his mental decline and health diagnosis,” Charlamagne said on his show. He speculated that Biden’s recent Stage 4 prostate cancer announcement was timed to preempt the book’s revelations, stating, “I think they announced Biden’s prostate diagnosis to get ahead of that book.”

Charlamagne accuses CNN and Jake Tapper of being “complicit” in covering up for Biden.pic.twitter.com/s5iG6kfzTF

— Thomas Sowell Quotes (@ThomasSowell) May 20, 2025

While eager to read Original Sin, Charlamagne questioned Tapper’s accountability. “I want to see if people like Jake Tapper hold themselves and networks like CNN accountable for what they didn’t report,” he said. “They’re all complicit in not calling a thing a thing regarding President Biden’s health.”

Morgyn Wood, the Black Information Network’s White House correspondent, supported Charlamagne’s skepticism, noting, “Stage 4? You’re not wrong. To find out about Stage 4 now, yeah, somebody didn’t speak up earlier.”

Dr. Ezekiel Emanuel, a former Biden COVID advisor and oncologist, stated on MSNBC’s Morning Joe on May 19, 2025, that Biden likely had cancer since at least the start of his presidency in 2021. “He had it while he was president,” Emanuel said. “He probably had it at the start of his presidency. I don’t think there’s any disagreement about that.”

Chattanooga Radio: Two Audacy Stations Swap Frequencies

Audacy announced a strategic frequency realignment of two of its popular Chattanooga stations. Beginning May 23 at 12:00 p.m. ET, Rock 105 (WRXR-FM) will move to 103.7 FM and rebrand as Rock 103.7, while Kiss FM (WKXJ-FM) will shift to 105.5 FM, becoming 105.5 Kiss FM.

“We always find ways to improve the listening experience for our consumers. Rock 105 has been a heritage brand to the community, and this new frequency will elevate its legacy to more fans beyond Chattanooga,” said Nichole Hartman, Senior Vice President and Market Manager, Audacy Chattanooga. “At the same time, broadcasting Kiss FM on 105.5 allows us to bring the best pop hits to the heart of the city and form a deeper connection with listeners in the Chattanooga metropolitan area.”

Both stations' programming will remain the same.

📻Listeners can tune in to Rock 103.7 (WRXR-FM) in Chattanooga on-air and nationwide on the Audacy app and website. Fans can also connect with the station via Instagram.

📻Listeners can tune in to 105.5 Kiss FM (WKXJ-FM) in Chattanooga on-air and nationwide on the Audacy app and website. Fans can also connect with the station via X, Facebook and Instagram.

Latest CRS 360 Webinar Now Available On Demand

Country Radio Seminar (CRS) has released a new CRS360 webinar, "A Face For Radio? A Difference For Your Listeners," now streaming on CountryRadioSeminar.com. 

Expanding on CRS 2025 research, the session explores evolving listener expectations for radio personalities and their impact on engagement in a competitive media landscape.

Hosted by Clay Hunnicutt, the webinar features NuVoodoo Media’s Carolyn Gilbert and Leigh Jacobs, alongside iHeartCountry’s Gator Harrison. Drawing from new CRS 2025 data, they discuss what listeners prioritize in Country radio hosts, focusing on five key areas: authenticity, relatability, trust, tone, and timing, which are essential for building strong audience connections.

“This CRS360 episode extends our CRS 2025 findings, highlighting how personality drives listener connection on Country radio,” said RJ Curtis, CRB Executive Director. “It offers actionable insights for programmers and talent.”

The webinar is a valuable resource for programmers, content directors, and talent coaches aiming to enhance their station’s voice and listener relationships. All CRS360 webinars are available on-demand at CountryRadioSeminar.com.

Bay Area Sports Collective, Expands Show Offerings

Bay Area Sports Collective, has announced the launch this week of three exciting new sports podcasts hosted by some of the most trusted names in Bay Area sports, including three-time World Series champion Jeremy Affeldt, television personality Amy Gutierrez, sports media executive Celeste Gehring, and longtime San Francisco sports talker Rod Brooks.

The three new podcasts produced and distributed by Bay Area Sports Collective are: 

🎧Built For The Storm features Jeremy Affeldt’s unique player perspective on all things San Francisco Giants and Major League Baseball, while highlighting underdog stories from individuals within the sports and entertainment arenas. Affeldt said: “After 14 years in the big leagues and three World Series rings, I figure it’s time to talk about the game.” He added: “I’m beyond excited to join Bay Area Sports Collective and bring my stories from the bullpen to the mic!” 

🎧Girl, How’d You Get That Gig? is hosted by Amy Gutierrez and Celeste Gehring. Gutierrez, known affectionately as “Amy G” throughout the San Francisco sports scene, teams up with Gehring to share success stories related to breaking into all walks of the sports industry. “There really couldn’t be a better home for our podcast than with Bay Area Sports Collective,” said Gehring. “My co-host Amy G and I feel we’ve created a supportive, inspiring and resourceful podcast highlighting the amazing work women are doing in sports, and we can’t wait to share it with the Bay Area fan base.” 

🎧Quality Hang With Rod Brooks & Friends, hosted by Rod Brooks, former San Francisco sports talk host and current Analyst for NBC Sports Bay Area. The podcast brings a fresh perspective to the intersection of sports and pop culture and features unique celebrity guests from the worlds of comedy and music talking about their favorite teams. Brooks remarked: “Some of the best times I had in radio were while working with Paul McCaffrey, Tony Rhein, Tom Tolbert and John Lund. I’m pumped to work with my friends again and wouldn’t do this with any other crew!” 

Offerings begin today with the debut of Built For The Storm at 5:00pm ET/2:00pm PT via livestream on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com

BuiltForTheStorm. Girl, How’d You Get That Gig? and Quality Hang with Rod Brooks and Friends will debut on Friday, May 23rd. 

All Bay Area Sports Collective podcasts are available via livestream on YouTube and across all major podcast platforms.

Diddy Trial: Wednesday Was A Shorter Day For The Jury

The jury in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal racketeering and sex-trafficking trial heard from three witnesses before being dismissed early for the day. 

Dawn Hughes, a board-certified clinical and forensic psychologist, testified as a “blind expert,” educating the jury on domestic violence, sexual assault, and traumatic stress. Earlier, she explained that victims often remain in abusive relationships, may delay reporting abuse for months or years, and can develop trauma bonds that make leaving difficult.

 
Defense attorney Jonathan Bach challenged Hughes’ credibility, portraying her as a biased professional witness. He questioned her about training she provided to victim advocates, funded by a Department of Justice grant under the Violence Against Women Act. 

Hughes confirmed she has never testified in defense of a man accused of a sex crime, stating, “I don’t evaluate offenders.” Bach highlighted six meetings Hughes had with prosecutors, some during the trial, though Hughes and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mitzi Steiner maintained that case specifics were not discussed. Steiner noted that Hughes had worked with one of Combs’ defense attorneys, Brian Steel, in another case, though Hughes clarified she did not testify as a witness in that matter.

The jury also heard testimony from George Kaplan, Combs’ former executive assistant, initially invoked his Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination but was compelled to testify after Judge Arun Subramanian indicated he would sign an immunity order.

Kevin and Amy Bring Morning Momentum to “Today’s Christian Music”

Kevin and Amy

Christian FM Media Group proudly announces the addition of Kevin and Amy to the Today’s Christian Music lineup.

The award-winning duo originating from “The House FM” in Oklahoma is now bringing a vibrant, inspiring, and joy-filled presence to over 100 Christian radio stations across the country.

Known for their chemistry, quick wit, and genuine heart for ministry, Kevin and Amy have consistently delivered engaging content that lifts spirits and connects communities.

Their show is a compelling mix of authenticity, laughter, and encouragement—engineered to energize mornings and deepen listener loyalty.

“It’s honestly humbling—and a little mind-blowing—that we get to do this for a living. We’re deeply honored to be part of what God is doing through Christian FM and Today’s Christian Music.” Amy stated, “If we can help someone walk through their day with Jesus, a little laughter, and a reminder that they’re not alone—that’s the good stuff. And let’s be real—if God can use us, there’s hope for everyone.”

Affiliates now have access to one of Christian radio’s most engaging teams—customizable, plug-and-play, and always on-mission. The Kevin and Amy Show is available for any daypart via FTP.

For more information contact Geoff Moore, National Affiliations Director Geoff@SmartRadioSuite.com, 800.350.5770

Moody Radio Shifts to National Format

Moody Radio, part of the Moody Bible Institute, is transitioning to a centralized, national broadcasting model, phasing out local morning shows across its 71 stations to launch Karl & Crew, a Chicago-based flagship morning program. 

Hosted by pastor Karl Clauson and journalist Ally Domercant, with producer Diana Berryman and contributor Jonathan “Young Thunder” Renke, the show will air network-wide starting in Fiscal Year 2025-2026.

The realignment eliminates all local morning shows, affecting hosts such as Perry and Shawna (Grand Rapids), Tom and Tabi (Chattanooga), Seth and Deb (Quad Cities), Kelli and Steve (Indianapolis), Eric and Brigitte (Miami), Brian (Cleveland), and Kurt and Kate (Tampa Bay).

Dr. Mark Jobe, President of Moody Bible Institute, described the decision as challenging but necessary for stewardship. “These are not just roles—they are valued team members, co-laborers in Christ, and close friends who have served faithfully. We are committed to supporting them through this transition with care and respect,” Jobe said.

Moody is aiming to double its reach to impact 20 million people by 2030. It also plans to expand its digital and print publishing to serve a global audience.

Report: Taylor Swift May Get Master's Ownership of Early Albums

Taylor Swift

New reports indicate Shamrock Capital is considering selling Tahlor Swift’s original master recordings back to her for an estimated $600 million to $1 billion, a price reflecting their increased value post her record-breaking Eras Tour, which grossed over $2 billion. 

Surprisingly, Scooter Braun, despite their history, is reportedly encouraging the deal, though he retains a financial stake in the masters, complicating Swift’s decision. Swift has expressed reluctance to buy them if Braun benefits, as seen in her 2019 stance against deals tying her to him

In 2005, at age 15, Taylor Swift signed with Big Machine Records, releasing her first six albums: Taylor Swift (2006), Fearless (2008), Speak Now (2010), Red (2012), 1989 (2014), and Reputation (2017).

Under this contract, Big Machine owned the master recordings, a common practice where labels control the original recordings while artists retain songwriting rights. In 2019, Scooter Braun’s Ithaca Holdings acquired Big Machine for $300 million, including Swift’s masters, without her being offered a chance to bid, which she publicly criticized as stripping her of her life’s work.

To regain control, Swift began re-recording her first six albums, releasing “Taylor’s Version” of Fearless (2021), Red (2021), Speak Now (2023), and 1989 (2023). These re-recordings, which she owns, include original tracks plus unreleased “vault” songs, devaluing the original masters held by Shamrock. 

Only her debut album and Reputation remain to be re-recorded. This move has been commercially successful, with fans favoring the new versions, and Swift controlling licensing for media like films and TV shows.

HipHop Artists Salt-N-Pepa Sue UMG Over Masters

Salt-N-Pepa, the pioneering female hip-hop group and first to win a Grammy, has filed a 166-page lawsuit against Universal Music Group in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, seeking ownership of master recordings for their early music, including the 1980s hit “Push It.”

The NY Times reports Cheryl James and Sandra Denton, known as Salt-N-Pepa, allege Universal violated the Copyright Act of 1976, which allows artists to reclaim copyright ownership 35 years after initial grants. 

The duo, who signed with Universal subsidiaries in 1986 and 1992, served termination notices in 2022, claiming rights to recordings from their 1986 debut Hot, Cool & Vicious, as well as A Salt With a Deadly Pepa (1988) and Blacks’ Magic (1990). They assert that the copyright for Very Necessary (1993) is due for termination in 2026. 

According to the lawsuit, Universal failed to honor these requests and removed the group’s music from streaming platforms in retaliation.

The lawsuit claims Salt-N-Pepa’s music generates tens of millions annually, yet the group is denied control. “This is about legacy, justice, and artist ownership,” their lawyers stated, framing the suit as a challenge to a system that profits off artists while limiting their rights.

Universal countered, accusing the group’s counsel of using the lawsuit’s publicity to push “unreasonable demands.” The company expressed willingness to pursue mediation for an “amicable resolution.”

Salt-N-Pepa, nominated for five Grammys, won Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group in 1994 for “None of Your Business,” sharing the milestone as the first female rappers to win a Grammy alongside Queen Latifah. They are set for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2025.

Cardi B to Receive ASCAP Voice of the Culture Award

The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) announced Wednesday that Grammy-winning rapper Cardi B will be honored with the prestigious ASCAP Voice of the Culture Award at a private, invitation-only ceremony in Los Angeles on June 8, 2025. This award recognizes ASCAP members who have significantly influenced music and culture through their creativity, authenticity, and activism.

ASCAP highlighted Cardi B’s transformative impact on hip-hop, noting her role in “redefining and challenging societal expectations for women” with her unapologetic style and talent. Paul Williams, ASCAP’s Chairman, praised her for breaking barriers and leaving an “indelible mark on the culture of hip-hop.” 

Cardi B

The Voice of the Culture Award, previously given to artists like Tip “T.I.” Harris in 2019, celebrates creators who drive social change and cultural influence through their work. Cardi B’s recognition underscores her contributions to music, her outspoken advocacy, and her ability to connect with global audiences.

Cardi B has a strong history with ASCAP, having won over 30 awards from the organization. She made history as the first woman to receive the ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Music Songwriter of the Year Award in 2019 and again in 2020 for hits like “Bodak Yellow,” “Bartier Cardi,” and “I Like It.” Her consistent chart success and cultural impact, including her Grammy win for Best Rap Album for Invasion of Privacy (the first by a solo female rapper), have solidified her as a trailblazer.

The announcement comes as Cardi B prepares her long-awaited second album, expected in 2025, following her 2018 debut, Invasion of Privacy.

Netflix’s Sesame Street Deal Includes Gaming

This week Netflix announced a streaming deal with Sesame Workshop, bringing Sesame Street’s 56th season and 90 hours of past episodes to its platform, alongside continued airing on PBS Kids. As part of this agreement, Netflix acquired rights to develop video games based on Sesame Street and its spinoff, Sesame Street Mecha Builders. 

Netflix’s recent redesign puts a greater emphasis on games, so the Sesame Steet deal meets Netflix’s broader push into kids’ gaming, leveraging familiar intellectual properties (IP) to engage young audiences.

Netflix’s strategy, as outlined by kids’ gaming chief Lisa Burgess, focuses on creating interactive experiences with beloved characters. The games are expected to mirror the approach of Netflix’s World of Peppa Pig app, which includes mini-games and videos centered on puzzle-solving, memory, counting, object recognition, and matching patterns, tailored for preschoolers with adjustable difficulty levels. 

For Sesame Street, potential scenarios include interactive settings like Cookie Monster’s “Cookie Cart” or Abby’s Fairy Garden, designed to foster educational skills such as literacy, math, and social-emotional learning, consistent with the show’s ethos. The games aim to provide both active engagement and passive entertainment, such as nursery rhymes and read-along stories, with regular content updates to maintain engagement.

Netflix’s data from kids’ profiles and family viewing habits will inform game design, ensuring age-appropriate transitions from preschool to older audiences, similar to how the platform adjusts content recommendations. This deal follows Netflix’s acquisition of Peppa Pig streaming rights and its accompanying World of Peppa Pig game, signaling a strategic focus on expanding its kids’ gaming portfolio with trusted IPs.

The 2025 Common Sense Census, conducted by Common Sense Media, reports a 65% increase in gaming time among U.S. children ages 0-8 since 2020, with 5- to 8-year-olds specifically increasing from 40 to 64 minutes per day. The growth underscores a shift from traditional TV to interactive digital platforms, with mobile gaming dominating due to accessibility—58% of 4-year-olds and 25% of 8-year-olds own tablets or cellphones.

Fox Nation Now Home To Docuseries '100 Days to Indy'

FOX Nation has become the home of season three of the highly coveted docuseries 100 Days to Indy, and will present all-new episodes beginning tomorrow, Thursday, May 22nd, announced Lauren Petterson, the streaming service’s president. 

Over the course of three episodes, which will be released weekly, this season will take viewers behind the wheel, and into the driver's seat on an epic journey towards and during the legendary Indianapolis 500. In addition, FOX Nation has acquired season one and two of the series and will release a playback of the full 2025 Indy 500 race on the platform the day after its airing on FOX Sports.

In making the announcement Petterson said, “We are thrilled to share exclusive access inside the lead up to the race and a behind the scenes look at the fast-paced, exhilarating world that is INDYCAR.”

100 Days to Indy co-executive producer Patrick Dimon added, "I'm beyond proud and excited to bring back 100 Days to Indy for a third season on FOX Nation and continue to tell the stories of the world class IndyCar teams and drivers, bringing them closer than ever before. IndyCar is the fastest racing on earth and the most competitive series in the world and the Indianapolis 500 is one of the biggest sporting events of the year with a passionate fan base and now we get to tell the story of these teams and drivers throughout the season. We are excited to continue to work with our amazing partners at FOX Nation as they continue to expand their original sports offerings. My team and I have documented this incredible world for the last two years and fans can expect even more action and drama on and off the track in this new season."