The Country Study: Respondents Think The Music Is Better

 
This year's Country Radio Seminar featured a NuVoodoo Research study surveying 1,500 Country music fans, revealing shifts in how they discover music, engage with radio, and view the genre's direction. Presented by Carolyn Gilbert and Leigh Jacobs, the findings highlighted the interplay between traditional radio and rising digital platforms, while confirming fans' lasting appreciation for Country's honesty, humanity, and authenticity.

One of the study’s key revelations was the divergence in listening habits across age groups. Older demographics, particularly those aged 45-54, remain loyal to AM/FM radio, with 59% citing it as their primary source for discovering new songs. In contrast, younger fans aged 18-24 are increasingly turning to digital avenues, with YouTube and streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Pandora surpassing traditional radio in popularity.

Across all respondents, the top three channels for finding new country music were identified as YouTube, streaming platforms, and broadcast radio, reflecting a broader trend of technological integration into the listening experience. Despite the rise of digital options, radio retains a vital role in promoting live events, with 41% of fans reporting it as their main source for concert information. A Nashville-based respondent captured this sentiment, stating, “I usually hear about artists either on the radio or, to be honest, I walk through Music Row and see the posters,” highlighting radio’s continued relevance in the heart of country music culture.

The study also delved into fans’ perceptions of the genre’s evolution, revealing a complex and divided landscape.

Nearly half of those surveyed believe country music has improved in recent years, pointing to factors like the resurgence of traditional elements—such as classic guitar-driven sounds—and the genre’s growing mainstream appeal through cross-genre collaborations. A Texas listener expressed enthusiasm for this shift, saying, “I like how it’s getting back to more guitar – more classic country guitar.” Conversely, only 16% of respondents feel the genre has declined, though longtime listeners with over a decade of fandom were more critical, with 22% arguing it has worsened compared to 42% who see improvement. Some detractors voiced unease about country music’s increasing similarity to pop, fearing a dilution of its roots. This polarization underscores the challenge artists and broadcasters face in balancing innovation with tradition to satisfy a diverse fanbase.

Listening preferences further illustrate the interplay between tradition and modernity. In-car listening remains dominated by radio, with 61% of respondents tuning into AM/FM while driving, a testament to its convenience and accessibility on the road. However, at home and in the workplace, streaming has gained significant ground, particularly among younger audiences who favor the control and variety offered by platforms like Spotify and YouTube Music. Common complaints about radio included poor signal quality, excessive commercials, and repetitive playlists—issues that drive some listeners to digital alternatives.

One respondent questioned radio’s competitiveness, asking, “Why would I listen to [radio] with bad signal and commercials when I can just turn on YouTube Music for a seamless experience?” This sentiment highlights the pressure on broadcasters to adapt to changing listener expectations.

Yet, despite the encroachment of streaming, country radio’s unique strength lies in its human element—its on-air personalities. Nearly half of listeners praised their favorite stations’ air talent for fostering a sense of community, delivering entertainment, and offering deep knowledge of the genre. Qualities like humor, authenticity, and relatability were frequently cited as reasons for their appeal, with morning shows standing out as a particularly strong draw.

However, the study also raised a red flag: 36% of respondents noted that many beloved personalities have disappeared from the airwaves in recent years, likely due to industry-wide staff cuts. This trend has sparked concern among fans about whether such reductions could erode the personal connection that has long been radio’s hallmark, potentially weakening listener loyalty over time.

NYC Radio: Roger Stone Launches Show On 77WABC

Red Apple Audio Networks and 77WABC Radio announce the addition of a new weeknight program, The StoneZONE, hosted by renowned political strategist Roger Stone, 8-9pm ET, beginning today.

“With the addition of The StoneZONE, radio audiences will have Roger’s perspective on news of the day in real-time,” said John Catsimatidis, Owner of Red Apple Media, Red Apple Audio Networks, and 77WABC. “Our world is moving quicker than ever before, and listeners want to hear Roger’s insider’s understanding of what’s really going on in politics.”

Stone, a renown Republican strategist, brings a mix of sharp political analysis and unfiltered commentary on today's pressing issues. With an unapologetic and outspoken style, Stone shares his insider’s perspective on the news in Washington, our nation, and the world.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to reach listeners across the country,” said Stone. “When John proposed this idea, I knew I had to jump on it right away.”

Following each evening’s broadcast, a video version of that StoneZONE will soon be exclusively available on Stone’s StoneZONE Rumble channel, where he routinely exceeds 100,000 views or more daily.

Stone is a veteran of 13 national Republican Presidential campaigns including Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, Jack Kemp, Bob Dole, and Donald Trump. Stone’s role in the 2000 Recount which elected Governor George W. Bush President is renown. In addition to frequently serving as a campaign adviser, Stone was a partner in the legendary Public Affairs firm Black, Manafort, Stone.

The already syndicated Sunday Roger Stone Show maintains its 3-5pm ET slot on Red Apple Audio Networks and also airs on flagship 77WABC.

For information on The StoneZONE with Roger Stone, or any of Red Apple Audio Networks’ syndicated shows, stations may visit www.redappleaudionetworks.com or contact affiliation@redappleaudionetworks.com.

Chicago Radio: Classic Hits WLS-FM Adds Jaybeau Jones

JayBeau Jones is making a return to the Windy City. He will be hosting nights on Cumulus Media's Classic Hits 94.7 WLS-FM, utilizing Radio Resources' innovative "Personality On Demand" service. 

Thr move marks a homecoming for Jones, who previously made his mark on Chicago's airwaves as the Program Director of Rhythmic Oldies "103.5 The Beat" WUBT, which later transitioned into CHR "103.5 Kiss-FM" WKSC, from 1999 to 2001.

Jaybeau Jones

In addition to his upcoming stint on WLS-FM, Jones is keeping busy with multiple gigs across the country. He currently hosts mornings on Binnie Media's "Frank-FM" trimulcast, which includes 106.3 WFNQ in Nashua/Manchester, 98.3 WLNH-FM in Laconia/Concord, and 98.7 WBYY in Somersworth/Portsmouth, New Hampshire, also through the Personality On Demand service. Furthermore, Jones's voice graces the airwaves nationwide on SiriusXM's popular "70's On 7" channel.

Before his return to Chicago, Jones spent a decade entertaining listeners in the afternoons at Beasley Media's Classic Hits 105.7 WROR in Boston. Unfortunately, his tenure there came to an end last May due to company-wide layoffs. Throughout his illustrious career, Jones has held various programming positions at notable stations such as WBMX and WODS in Boston, WKSS-FM in Hartford, and served as the Director of Operations for Citadel Worcester. His on-air experience is equally impressive, having worked at WXKS-FM in Boston, WHTZ in New York, and WPJB in Providence.

Expressing his excitement about joining WLS-FM, Jones stated, "To have the opportunity to utter the legendary call letters 'WLS' is quite literally a dream come true from my childhood. Program Director Todd Cavanah has masterfully crafted a brand that lives up to the station's iconic reputation. I am truly honored to be a part of the 94.7 WLS family. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Todd, Cumulus Chief Content Officer Brian Philips, and Regional VP/Market Manager Marv Nyren for this incredible opportunity."

Oxnard Radio: The Vibe Renews Dodgers' Broadcasts

Cumulus Media announces that Contemporary Hit Radio station 106.3 The Vibe/KVYB-FM in Oxnard/Ventura, CA, has renewed its longtime broadcast partnership with the Los Angeles Dodgers baseball franchise. 

The station will continue as the Dodgers’ official broadcast partner for Ventura Country and Santa Barbara. 106.3 The Vibe broadcasts all L.A. Dodgers games live on-air.

Sommer Frisk, Vice President/Market Manager, Cumulus Oxnard/Ventura, said: “With so much excitement surrounding the World Champions, it was an easy decision to make to continue our long-standing partnership with the Dodgers franchise. There is nothing like listening to the L.A. Dodgers in stereo on the radio with no blackout dates.” 

Dave Daniels, Operations Manager, Cumulus Oxnard/Ventura commented: "We’re proud to welcome back the Dodgers as World Champions. This year, enjoy all the action on 106.3 The Vibe as the Dodgers begin their quest for back-to-back championships.”

For more information on the L.A. Dodgers’ 2025 season, visit: https://www.1063thevibe.com/.

Cumulus Media Adds SPECai Spec Spot Creation Technology

Cumulus Media has enhanced its suite of creative resources with the addition of SPECai, an award-winning AI-powered spec spot production technology. 

This expansion is part of the Cumulus Creative Concierge, a full-service creative resource that provides advertisers with high-quality, custom commercial production. By integrating SPECai, Cumulus Media equips its local advertising executives with a diverse set of tools, blending expert-driven creative production with the efficiency of AI-generated content. 

SPECai utilizes cutting-edge AI to generate fully produced spec spots in English and Spanish, including regional accents, enabling Cumulus Media account executives to deliver engaging, high-quality ads to advertisers in seconds. This addition reinforces Cumulus Media’s commitment to providing innovative, results-driven creative solutions for advertisers nationwide. 

Dave Milner, President, Operations, Cumulus Media, said: “Creative is the key to successful advertising, and SPECai gives our sales teams a powerful tool to bring ideas to life instantly. By generating high-quality spec spots in seconds, AI helps advertisers quickly hear how their message could sound on our stations. At the same time, our full-service creative team continues to craft custom campaigns designed for maximum impact. Together, these resources ensure that our advertisers get the best of both worlds—speed and innovation through AI, plus expert-driven storytelling that makes their brand stand out.” 

To learn more about Cumulus Media marketing solutions for local brands, visit: https://www.cumulusmedia.com/about-us/contact-us/ or call (877) 482-1420. 

Morale At The View Tanks

Morale at ABC’s The View has reportedly plummeted after executive producer Brian Teta urged hosts—Whoopi Goldberg, Joy Behar, Sunny Hostin, Sara Haines, Alyssa Farah Griffin, and Ana Navarro—to soften their criticism of President Donald Trump following his January 2025 inauguration as the 47th president. 

Known for its sharp anti-Trump stance, the show’s shift has sparked tension among the hosts, who feel stifled, especially after an embarrassing November 2024 episode requiring multiple on-air disclaimers about Trump’s cabinet nominees. 

According to The NY Post, compounding the unease, ABC’s cost-cutting under Disney led to layoffs, including senior producers Jamie Hammer and Audrey Jones, leaving staff anxious and insecure. 

Logistical woes, like sharing studio space with The Tamron Hall Show, have further frustrated the team. 

Despite averaging 2.6 million viewers since Trump’s election, internal discontent contrasts with external success. Some hosts, like Haines and Griffin, hint at adapting, while others resist, though a source insists the show remains a platform for free opinions. ABC News has not commented.

Predecessors Claim Carr Is Weaponizing FCC Against Broadcasters

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), under Chairman Brendan Carr, launched an investigation into KCBS 740 AM, an all-news station owned by Audacy, Inc., in early February 2025. The probe centers on a January 26, 2025, broadcast during the "KCBS Radio Weekend News" program, where the station reported the live locations and detailed descriptions of unmarked vehicles used by undercover U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents operating in East San Jose. This area is noted for its association with violent gang activity, raising concerns about the safety of the agents involved.

The ICE operation targeted illegal immigrants, including those linked to violent gangs, aligning with Trump’s campaign promises of rapid deportation enforcement. The broadcast drew immediate backlash from ICE and conservative commentators, who argued it endangered agents by exposing their positions in a high-risk environment.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, appointed by Trump in November 2024 and elevated to chair in January 2025, announced the investigation during a February 6, 2025, appearance on Fox News’ "Fox & Friends." Carr described the broadcast as “really concerning,” emphasizing that KCBS had aired “live locations, identifying the unmarked vehicles [ICE agents] were in” in an area known for violent gang activity. He confirmed that the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau had sent a formal letter of inquiry to KCBS, demanding a response within days to explain how the broadcast aligned with its public interest obligations under the Communications Act of 1934.

This act requires FCC-licensed broadcasters to operate in the “public interest, convenience, and necessity,” a standard Carr suggested KCBS may have violated by potentially compromising agent safety. He framed the investigation as part of his broader agenda to ensure accountability, contrasting it with what he sees as the partisan biases of his predecessors. The deadline for KCBS’s response was reported to be imminent—within “a matter of days” from February 6—though no public update on their submission has surfaced as of February 22.

This investigation is one of several high-profile actions Carr has taken since assuming the chairmanship. In his first month, he also revived probes into NBC, ABC, and CBS over alleged election bias, targeted NPR and PBS for supposed sponsorship rule violations, and scrutinized Audacy’s ownership structure following George Soros’s 2024 acquisition of a significant stake in the company. The KCBS case, however, stands out due to its direct implications for press freedom and public safety.

Carr’s critics, including former FCC chairs and First Amendment advocates, have accused him of weaponizing the agency to target media outlets perceived as unsympathetic to Trump’s administration. The KCBS investigation intensified these concerns, especially given its timing amid Trump’s mass deportation initiatives.

Audacy and KCBS have declined to comment publicly on the investigation, leaving their defense—if submitted—unreported as of now.

Carr responded sharply to criticism from three of his predecessors regarding his investigations into alleged media bias at major broadcast outlets. This situation has drawn significant attention due to its implications for media regulation, free press, and political tensions in the United States. His repsonse comes aftwe former FCC chairs Tom Wheeler (served under Obama), Reed Hundt (served under Clinton), and Alfred Sikes (served under Bush), collectively condemned Carr’s moves as an overreach of FCC authority and a threat to press freedom.

In response, Carr dismissed his predecessors as partisan figures suffering from “Trump Derangement Syndrome” (TDS), a term often used to imply irrational opposition to Trump. Speaking through media channels, including messages to journalist Oliver Darcy, Carr accused Wheeler, Hundt, and Sikes of hypocrisy, pointing to their own past actions—such as Wheeler’s support for Title II net neutrality under Obama, which Carr claims was influenced by Google and Obama’s agenda, or their calls to revoke licenses from Fox or Elon Musk’s Starlink. 

Carr suggested their criticism stemmed from a desire for relevance rather than principle, stating, “I gotta imagine it’s hard when the curtain is closing on your career and yet you’re still yearning for one more moment in the limelight.” He further asserted that, unlike his predecessors, he would ensure the FCC gives “everyone a fair shake.”

On The Road: Gomez Critical Of FCC Investigation Into CBS

FCC Commissioner Anna M. Gomez, a Democrat appointed to the Federal Communications Commission in September 2023, has been vocal in her criticism of the agency’s investigation into CBS, particularly during a visit to WFOR-TV, a CBS-owned station in Miami, on February 18, 2025. This visit came amid escalating tensions over the FCC’s probes into alleged media bias under Chairman Brendan Carr, a Republican appointed by President Donald Trump.

Context of the Visit: Gomez’s trip to WFOR was part of a broader series of engagements with broadcasters across the United States, aimed at understanding the media market’s challenges and assessing how FCC actions impact local communities. Her visit coincided with a symposium with Hispanic media executives in Miami, reflecting her commitment as the first Latina FCC commissioner in over two decades to connect with diverse media stakeholders. However, the timing—shortly after the FCC intensified its scrutiny of CBS—turned the visit into a platform for her to publicly challenge what she sees as an overreach by the agency.

The FCC, under Carr’s leadership since January 2025, had revived a previously dismissed complaint against CBS, originally filed by the conservative Center for American Rights. The complaint alleged “news distortion” in a “60 Minutes” interview with then-Vice President Kamala Harris during the 2024 presidential election campaign. Carr’s decision to escalate the probe, including demanding unedited footage and transcripts from CBS, drew sharp rebukes from Gomez and other press freedom advocates, who viewed it as a politically motivated attack on journalistic independence.

Gomez’s Criticism: During her visit to WFOR, Gomez emphasized the critical role of local broadcasters, stating, “The FCC should not be in the business of controlling access to vital local information.” She argued that stations like WFOR serve as essential resources for communities—providing emergency alerts, local news, and information for seniors, veterans, and residents—particularly in a diverse media market like Miami. Her remarks underscored her belief that the FCC’s actions, including the CBS investigation, threaten to disrupt this public service by instilling fear in broadcasters and influencing editorial decisions.

Gomez framed the investigation as part of a broader pattern of “weaponization” of the FCC’s authority under Carr. She has consistently criticized the agency’s recent moves—such as probes into ABC, NBC, NPR, PBS, and Audacy—as exceeding its mandate and undermining its role as an independent regulator. In her view, the CBS case exemplifies a retaliatory effort to target broadcasters whose content is perceived as unfavorable to the Trump administration. She reiterated this stance in a February 5, 2025, statement on X, noting that the released “60 Minutes” transcripts and footage showed no evidence of FCC rule violations, calling the probe a “fishing expedition” that should be dismissed to avoid further politicization.

The CBS investigation stems from claims that the network edited the October 2024 “60 Minutes” interview with Harris in a way that favored her candidacy over Trump’s. The Center for American Rights argued this constituted intentional distortion, violating the FCC’s public interest standards. Former FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel had dismissed the complaint in 2024, citing First Amendment protections and insufficient evidence. However, Carr reinstated it within days of taking office, aligning with Trump’s public criticisms of mainstream media and his $10 billion lawsuit against CBS over the same interview.

Atlanta Radio: 87.7 The Vibe Adds DeDe in The Morning

The nationally syndicated radio show DeDe in the Morning is making its way to Atlanta, joining the lineup on The New R&B and Southern Soul station launched by Core Radio Group “87.7 The Vibe” 877TheVibe.com. Listeners in Atlanta can now start their mornings with the energetic and engaging show, hosted by the incomparable DeDe McGuire.

“I am beyond thrilled to be part of The New 87.7 The Vibe,” said DeDe McGuire. “I can’t wait to connect with my new listeners and become a part of their mornings. Get ready for laughter, engaging conversations, and a whole lot of fun. Atlanta, let’s make mornings your favorite part of the day together! This is a dream come true.”

Core Radio Group President/CEO Steve Hegwood, shared his enthusiasm about the addition of DeDe in the Morning to the station’s lineup. “Atlanta has been waiting for DeDe in the Morning. I’m a big fan of her show—she is a world-class talent with success all across the country, and we are excited to have her wake up the city of Atlanta on 87.7 The Vibe.”

To find out how to bring DeDe in the Morning, who can be heard in 85 markets, to your station, contact Compass Media Networks at (914) 707-9963 or email nabramson@compassmedianetworks.com.

Jim Acosta Reignites Trump Feud

Jim Acosta, a veteran journalist and former CNN anchor, has reignited his long-standing feud with President Donald Trump following his departure from the network in January 2025. 

Acosta, who spent nearly 18 years at CNN, was known for his combative exchanges with Trump during the latter’s first term, particularly as CNN’s chief White House correspondent. His exit from CNN and subsequent actions have kept their rivalry in the spotlight, especially as Trump began his second term in January 2025. Here’s an overview of the situation based on available reports:

Acosta’s exit from CNN was announced on January 28, 2025, during the final broadcast of his CNN Newsroom show, which aired at 10 a.m. ET. The departure came after CNN offered him a new time slot—midnight to 2 a.m. ET—which many viewed as a demotion to a low-viewership “graveyard shift.” This move was part of a broader programming shake-up under CNN CEO Mark Thompson, who aimed to pivot the network toward digital offerings and adjust its lineup. Acosta declined the late-night slot, choosing instead to leave the network after careful consideration. In his on-air sign-off, he delivered a pointed message: “Don’t give in to the lies. Don’t give in to the fear. Hold on to the truth, and to hope.” He also referenced his Cuban refugee heritage, stating, “It is never a good time to bow down to a tyrant,” a remark widely interpreted as a jab at Trump.

Shortly after leaving CNN, Acosta launched an independent venture, The Jim Acosta Show, on Substack, signaling his intent to continue his journalistic pursuits unfiltered. On February 16, 2025, he published a post on the platform that directly challenged the Trump administration’s treatment of the press. Specifically, Acosta criticized the White House’s decision to ban the Associated Press (AP) from briefings after the outlet refused to adopt Trump’s preferred terminology—“Gulf of America”—over its stylebook-standard “Gulf of Mexico.” 

Acosta called this an attack on press freedom and urged news organizations to unite in solidarity, suggesting they boycott Trump coverage until the administration relented. “News outlets must rally to the cause… refusing to cover presidential movements until Trump backs down,” he wrote, adding, “To President Trump and his allies, you may think you have silenced me. But guess again.”

Trump, in turn, had already celebrated Acosta’s CNN exit on Truth Social on January 28, 2025, calling him “one of the worst and most dishonest reporters in journalistic history, a major sleazebag” and claiming his move to the midnight slot was due to “extraordinarily LOW RATINGS.” After Acosta’s Substack post, the feud escalated further. Acosta responded to Trump’s earlier taunts on X, quipping, “Looks like somebody has ADS: Acosta Derangement Syndrome,” flipping Trump’s own “Trump Derangement Syndrome” label back at him. This exchange underscored the personal nature of their animosity, which dates back to Trump’s first term.

Gannett Forecasts Digital Will Be 50% Of Total Revenue This Year

Digital now makes up 45% of revenue at Gannett, totaling over $1.1 billion for the year, the company reported in its 2024 financials. Digital revenue rose by over 5% YoY, reports Media Post.

Still, the news publisher experienced a 7.2% decline in total revenues to $621.3 million during Q4. This total was affected by the decision to sell or shut down some non-strategic assets. Same-store revenue dropped by 5.5%.  

And for the full year, revenue fell from $2.663 billion in the prior year to $2.509 billion, below the estimate. But Gannett, which owns USA Today and many other brands, sees the results as a victory. 

"The successful execution of our strategy has driven continued improvement across our key financial metrics,” says Michael Reed, chairman and CEO of Gannett. “In 2024, we delivered full-year growth in both Adjusted EBITDA and free cash flow, while driving improvement to our bottom line. We also remained focused on enhancing our capital structure in 2024, which was evidenced by repaying $73.5 million of debt in addition to repayments made in connection with the completion of our comprehensive refinancing that extended our debt maturities and significantly reduced potential future dilution from our convertible notes." 

Here's another improvement: net loss was $26.4 million, down from $27.9 million in 2023. 

The print/commercial area saw a decline to $1.4 billion, versus $1.6 billion. 

And the company is looking at total asset sales of $60 million to $70 million. On Wednesday, it was announced that Gannett is selling the Austin American-Statesman to Hearst. 

Looking forward for 2025, Gannett forecast a 7%-10% increase in digital revenues on a same-store basis. And digital will make up 50% of total revenues. 

“While transformations are never a straight line, the reaffirmation of our key financial goals demonstrates the continued progress we are making on our transformation," Reed observes.

NYC Radio: WBGO, WQXR, WFUV, WSHU Launch Music Collaborative

Four New York City-area public radio music stations are joining forces to form the Tri-State Public Radio Music Collaborative (TSPRMC), a landmark partnership between WBGO 88.8FM (Newark Public Radio), WQXR 105.9 FM (New York Public Radio), WFUV 90.7 FM (Fordham University Public Radio) and WSHU 91.1 FM (Sacred Heart University Public Radio). The stations will collaborate to create content, build audiences and generate revenue.

“This project is an unique opportunity to leverage our geographical proximity and exceptional influence we share as four of America’s most influential broadcasters,” said WBGO President and CEO Steven A. Williams “For the first time, we’ll work together to develop initiatives that will benefit public radio listeners in the nation’s largest media market and the public media system as a whole, and at the same time we’ll build a foundation for similar collaborations between stations in other cities.”

The stations will use a grant from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) to develop a comprehensive, five-year business model, including a structural outline for staffing and management that could become the model for similar collaborations between stations across the country.

“WQXR is proud to unite with our fellow music format public radio stations in the tri-state region to find new, inventive ways to collaboratively serve our audiences,” said LaFontaine E. Oliver, President and CEO, New York Public Radio. “At WQXR, we are committed to making classical music inviting and available to everyone and joining forces with other stations who share our values of accessibility and service can demonstrate the unique value we bring to our communities. We are grateful to WBGO for spearheading this work and convening this collective, and to the CPB for supporting this effort.”

Working with the stations will be Public Media Company, which will help to develop the collaborative’s strategic focus, and Paragon which will conduct digital audits of each station and a comprehensive membership data analysis. The audits will analyze the current state of each service’s digital marketing presence and utilize industry-specific research to provide suggestions for improvement and identify areas to target to enhance content distribution while expanding digital reach.

Customized digital strategies will be developed that are specific to each station’s goals. The strategies will act as a detailed roadmap of digital content, marketing efforts and internal processes. The strategies will also include analysis of the targeted audiences for each platform.

Audacy's Leading Ladies Features Gwenn Stefani, Lainey Wilson

Audacy’s 5th annual Leading Ladies, presented by Olay Body, returns to New York on April 3 at the historic Kings Theatre in Brooklyn. The intimate event, which celebrates women in music, will feature Gwen Stefani, Lainey Wilson, Alessia Cara, Audacy LAUNCH artist Kassi Ashton and Haven Madison for a powerful night of performances and storytelling.

A portion of the show's proceeds will be donated to Women Who Rock, benefitting Magee-Womens Research Institute. Women Who Rock is a female-founded brand dedicated to supporting women in music, empowerment and advocating for women’s health.

Led by Katie Neal, ACM’s 2024 National Daily On-Air Personality of the Year and host of “Katie & Co, and Karen Carson, NEW 102.7 FM (WNEW-FM) morning show host, Leading Ladies spotlights artists across genres, sharing stories of breaking barriers, personal journeys and the transformative impact of their music.

“The essence of Leading Ladies is Audacy’s passion for spotlighting music’s most influential female artists and their impact on our industry,” said Kelli Turner, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer, Audacy. “Music uplifts, unites and inspires us all, and we’re proud to cultivate a special evening for our fans by amplifying these wonderfully talented women.”

Listeners can get early access to tickets through the presale on February 27 from 10:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. ET or while supplies last. To get the presale link and code, download the free Audacy app and follow NEW 102.7, or sign up for the NEW 102.7 newsletter at NEW1027.com. 

Tickets for Leading Ladies, presented by Olay Body, go on sale on February 28 at 10:00 a.m. ET and can be purchased at http://auda.cy/LLTix. Additional sponsors of Leading Ladies include New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism, Tri-State Cadillac Dealers, Terra Origin and Homes.com. 

For more information about Leading Ladies, visit Audacy.com. 

Radio History: Feb 24

➦In 1924...WPOW NYC signs-on as WBBR. Judge Franklin Rutherford, successor to the Jehovah Witness founder, Charles Taze Russell, dedicated WBBR, at Rossville in southwestern Staten Island.

Franklin Rutherford

WBBR's programming schedule included programs in several languages, including Yiddish and Arabic.

Judge Rutherford later expanded the radio operations into ownership of at least 7 stations in the United States and Canada, including outlets in the Chicago, Toronto, and Oakland areas.

On August 5, 1928, Rutherford broadcast on a chain of  96 stations, the largest radio network organized till that time, according to New York Radio History.  But, Rutherford's attacks on other religions led many stations to drop his programs, sometimes cutting him off before he was finished.

WBBR started off on a frequency of 1230 AM in 1924, then moved to 1100 later that year. In 1925, the station moved to 720 AM, unauthorized. In 1927, WBBR moved again to 1170, and in 1928 to 1300 - in both instances, sharing time with other stations.

In 1941, WBBR's license was transferred to the Watchtower Bible And Tract Society, the religion's publishing arm, and in March of that year, WBBR (and its share-time partners) moved to 1330 AM. In 1946, power was increased to 5000 watts.

In 1957 the Watchtower Bible And Tract Society sold its station to H. Scott Killgore's Tele-Broadcasters Of New York Inc. for $133,000.  Call letters were changed to WPOW on May 1, 1957, the religious talks and placid string and organ music disappeared, and the new station embarked on a series of changes that would repeatedly make it something of a pioneer in New York area radio.

On the morning of September 5, 1957, WPOW became the first New York station to play a form of rock music during most of its daily schedule.

The remainder of WPOW's schedule was filled with easy-listening music, paid religious programs including "Glad Tidings Tabernacle" and "The Hebrew Christian Hour".

Under its share-time arrangements, WPOW often broadcast at unusual times, occasionally signing on at 3a and then leaving the air while the morning drive-time audience was at its peak.

In February 1958, the station moved to foreign-language programming, mostly Spanish but also including some Polish, French, Armenian and Byelorussian.

In July 1959, Killgore sold WPOW for $250,000 to John M. Camp, an Illinois-based advertising agent and broker of religious broadcast time.  In 1973, Camp purchased share-time station WHAZ in Troy NY and starting operating it as a daytimer, opening up Monday nights for WPOW.

In 1979, WPOW's other share-time station on 1330 AM, WEVD, was sold to Salem Media, and became WNYM.  In the early 1980's, Salem bought out WPOW for $4 million, most of that sum simply for the Staten Island real estate.

On December 31, 1984, WPOW signed off without ceremony, and the last time-sharing arrangement in New York AM radio came to an end.

Today, the WBBR call letters are being used by Bloomberg on 1130 AM. The WPOW calls are being used by Beasley Broadcasting for one of its FM's in Miami. And WPOW's 1330 AM frequency in NYC is occupied by religious WWRV, 1330 is a Spanish Christian music and teaching station and serves the New York area. It is owned by Radio Vision Cristiana Management.

➦In 1942...the Voice of America (VOA) began broadcasting.

Voice of America (VOA) is a U.S. government-funded international multimedia Agency which serves as the United States federal government's official institution for non-military, external broadcasting, the largest U.S. international broadcaster. VOA produces digital, TV, and radio content in more than 40 languages which it distributes to affiliate stations around the globe. It is primarily viewed by foreign audiences, so VOA programming has an influence on public opinion abroad regarding the United States and its leaders.

VOA was established in 1942, and the VOA charter (Public Laws 94-350 and 103-415) was signed into law in 1976 by President Gerald Ford. The charter contains its mission "to broadcast accurate, balanced, and comprehensive news and information to an international audience", and it defines the legally mandated standards in the VOA journalistic code.

VOA uses shortwave transmitters (many located in Greenville North Carolina).

➦In 1987...Radio, TV host/personality Larry King suffered a major heart attack and then had quintuple-bypass surgery. Since then, King has written two books about living with heart disease. Mr. King, You're Having a Heart Attack and How a Heart Attack and Bypass Surgery Changed My Life.

➦In 1987...Radio Personality Jim Connors died at age 47.  He was killed in a car crash on I-95 in Greensville County, Virginia.

Jim Connors earned thirteen Gold records for discovering artists during his career including Harry Chapin and his hit song "Taxi". Chapin later went on to write "W*O*L*D," a song inspired by Connors' life. This song was based on a phone call Harry overheard while in studio with JC at WMEX-Boston. The men began discussing what life as a "jock" is like, which was Harry's inspiration for the hit song.

MSNBC Cancels Joy Reid

As we reported Saturday, MSNBC's primetime lineup is reportedly in for a shakeup that might surprise its loyal audience, and indications are this is cancel week.

Various sources say the network, owned by Comcast's NBCUniversal, plans to shift Symone Sanders-Townsend, Alicia Melendez, and Michael Steele to the 7 p.m. slot Tuesday through Friday, while on Mondays, this trio will host from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. 

This change spells the end for Joy Reid, the current 7 p.m. anchor, who is expected to sign off from MSNBC this week.

Meanwhile, Alex Wagner, who’s been holding down the 9 p.m. slot most weeknights—except Mondays when Rachel Maddow takes over—will reportedly transition to a contributor role, according to three insiders. 

Wagner’s been on the road covering the first 100 days of the new Trump presidency, while Maddow has anchored nightly at 9 p.m. Sources suggest Wagner won’t reclaim her regular weeknight gig, and Jen Psaki is slated to step into at least one of those hours. 

The overhaul follows the appointment of Rebecca Kutler as MSNBC’s new president. Kutler, a former CNN exec known for spotting talent and crafting fresh programming, steps in as the network grapples with a tricky landscape: navigating the Trump White House and preparing for a spinoff with other NBCU cable properties into a new public company. 

MSNBC isn’t alone in facing headwinds. Like its cable peers, it’s losing viewers who once tuned in nightly for commentary. Kagan, a research outfit under S&P Global Intelligence, predicts MSNBC will lose about 10.5% of its subscribers between late 2023 and late 2025.