Authorities Have Weapon, Hunt Continues

The shooter who killed Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative activist, at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025, is being described as being of "college age" and blended in with students on campus. 

The individual used a high-powered bolt-action rifle, which was later recovered by authorities in a wooded area near the campus where the suspect fled. 

According to the FBI and Utah Department of Public Safety, the suspect arrived on campus around 11:52 a.m., accessed a rooftop via stairwells, fired a single fatal shot, and then escaped by jumping off the building into a nearby neighborhood. Surveillance footage captured the suspect’s movements, and authorities have images of the suspect’s face, though they have not yet released them publicly. 

Forensic evidence, including a footwear impression, palm print, and forearm imprint, is being analyzed. The suspect remains at large, and the FBI is seeking public assistance to identify them.

Also today  President Donald Trump announced, during a 9/11 memorial ceremony at the Pentagon, that he will posthumously award Charlie Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States. 

Trump described Kirk as “a giant of his generation, a champion of liberty, and an inspiration to millions,” expressing grief and noting that Kirk’s voice and courage would live on, particularly among young people. The date for the medal ceremony has not been specified, but Trump emphasized it would draw a “very big crowd.”

Charlie Kirk Dead, Hunt Continues For Killer

Vantage Point for Perpetrator

Conservative political activist, author, and founder of Turning Point USA, Charlie Kirk, aged 31, was fatally shot on stage during a public event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. 

The assassination  occurred while Kirk was engaged in a heated exchange with a student during one of his signature “Prove Me Wrong” debates, a hallmark of his campus speaking tours. Video footage circulating online shows the discussion centered on the contentious topic of mass shootings involving transgender individuals moments before the gunfire erupted.

The shooter fled the scene, prompting an ongoing manhunt by local and federal law enforcement. Authorities briefly detained two suspects in connection with the attack but released them after determining they were not involved. 

No arrests have been made, and the motive for the shooting remains under investigation, with police urging the public to provide any relevant information.

President Donald Trump issued a statement attributing Kirk’s death to “radical left” rhetoric, which he claimed has increasingly fueled political violence. He described Kirk as “a martyr for truth and freedom” and a vital voice in mobilizing young conservative voters. Kirk, a close ally of Trump, played a significant role in the former president’s 2024 election campaign, particularly in energizing young voters through Turning Point USA, a conservative youth organization he founded in 2012. 

The group, active on over 3,500 college campuses nationwide, has been instrumental in promoting conservative values among students.

Charlie Kirk (1993-2025)

Kirk, a talk show host for Salem Media Group,  was a polarizing yet influential figure, known for his provocative style, bestselling books, and a widely followed podcast that amplified his reach. His “Prove Me Wrong” debates often drew large crowds and sparked intense discussions, blending conservative advocacy with confrontational rhetoric.

His work with Turning Point USA made him a leading voice in the conservative movement, particularly among younger demographics.

The shooting drew widespread condemnation from political leaders across the spectrum. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed deep sorrow and outrage, stating, “This act of violence against Charlie Kirk is an attack on free speech and the principles we hold dear.” Former President Barack Obama, in a rare moment of bipartisan alignment, condemned the shooting, saying, “This kind of despicable violence has no place in our democracy, and we must come together to reject it.” 

Other prominent figures, including governors, senators, and activists, echoed calls for unity while mourning Kirk’s death.In Washington, House Speaker Mike Johnson called for a moment of silence on the House floor to honor Kirk. However, the gesture quickly devolved into chaos as lawmakers clashed over its significance. Some argued it was insufficient to address the broader issue of political violence, while others accused their colleagues of politicizing the tragedy, highlighting the deep partisan divide even in moments of mourning.

News Outlets Provided Extensive Coverage

Cable news networks provided extensive coverage of the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, with each outlet reflecting its editorial slant while reporting the breaking news. Here's an overview of how Fox News, MSNBC, CNN, and other sources—covered the event:

Fox News: Fox News broke the news at 2:49 p.m. ET, with anchors Sandra Smith and Bill Melugin leading coverage. Former Rep. Jason Chaffetz, present at the event, provided a firsthand account, describing the chaos as the crowd scattered amid screams. Fox emphasized Kirk’s prominence as a Turning Point USA founder and Trump ally, framing the shooting as a potential consequence of heated political rhetoric. Posts on X from Fox highlighted Kirk’s recent appearance on Fox & Friends and Turning Point USA’s statement mourning his loss, alongside commentator Mark Levin’s call for justice, suggesting a narrative of political targeting.

MSNBC: MSNBC began coverage at approximately 2:50 p.m. ET, with anchor Katy Tur leading the report. The network faced criticism for politicizing the event, as Tur speculated about the Trump administration potentially using the shooting to justify policy actions. Guest Matthew Dowd’s comments were deemed “inappropriate, insensitive, and unacceptable” by MSNBC president Rebecca Kutler, prompting an apology. Utah Governor Spencer Cox’s statement, aired by MSNBC, called the shooting a “political assassination” and a “tragic day for our nation,” reflecting the gravity of the event. MSNBC’s coverage trended on X due to controversial remarks but also included bipartisan reaction

CNN: CNN’s coverage started at 2:50 p.m. ET during CNN News Central, with anchors Boris Sanchez and Brianna Keilar joined by senior White House correspondent Kristen Holmes and political director David Chalian. The network focused on factual reporting, noting Kirk’s role as a conservative activist and the circumstances of the shooting during a Q&A session. CNN’s approach was relatively measured, emphasizing Kirk’s influence and the bipartisan condemnation of the violence, though less ideologically charged than Fox or MSNBC.

Other Major News Sources:

• CBS News: CBS delivered two special reports anchored by Maurice DuBois at 3:02 p.m. and 4:43 p.m. ET, with analysis from chief Washington analyst Robert Costa, who had reported on Kirk extensively. The network focused on the shooting’s impact and Kirk’s background.
• ABC News: ABC provided breaking news updates, including eyewitness accounts from a mother and daughter at the event and reactions from Utah Congressman Mike Kennedy. Coverage highlighted Kirk’s family, his role at Turning Point USA, and bipartisan grief from leaders like President Trump.
• NBC News: NBC reported the shooting as a live event, noting Kirk’s death and the university’s response, including evacuation and a suspect in custody. The network included a profile of Kirk and reactions from lawmakers like Senators Chuck Grassley and Ted Cruz.
• Deseret News: The Utah outlet critiqued media responses, praising most for reflecting national shock but criticizing MSNBC’s politicized coverage. It noted Kyle Smith’s satirical X post comparing modern media to hypothetical coverage of JFK’s assassination.

Overall Sentiment: Coverage across networks reflected the tragedy’s national impact, with Fox News emphasizing Kirk’s conservative legacy and potential political motives, MSNBC facing backlash for speculative commentary, and CNN and others focusing on factual reporting and bipartisan reactions. The event sparked debates about political rhetoric, with some sources like Deseret News and posts on X highlighting concerns over media bias and public trust.

Conservative Outlets Mourn Loss of Charlie Kirk

Conservative media is reeling from the loss of Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, who was fatally shot at Utah Valley University during his “American Comeback Tour.”

On Fox News, anchor Will Cain struggled through tears as he read President Trump’s announcement of Kirk’s death, saying, “I don’t know where we go from here as a news program, or in America.” 

.@jasoninthehouse remembers Charlie Kirk:

"I want his wife and the country to know... The last question he took, the last thing he talked about... was one of love, of Jesus Christ, of his belief in prayer. And he talked about that from his heart." pic.twitter.com/dSfaHCmyyO

— The Will Cain Show (@WillCainShow) September 10, 2025

Dana Perino on “The Five” was visibly shaken, while co-host Jesse Watters vowed, “We’re going to avenge Charlie’s death.” Jeanine Pirro, now U.S. attorney for Washington, called into the show, expressing heartbreak.

Megyn Kelly, streaming on YouTube, broke down alongside guest Glenn Beck of The Blaze. She called Kirk a loyal friend who stood by her during tense times with the MAGA community and praised former Presidents Obama and Biden for their condolences, saying, “I accept those hands of friendship.” Kirk was set to join Kelly for a tour stop in Virginia on September 24.

Megyn Kelly breaks down reporting the death of Charlie Kirk pic.twitter.com/YKS617I37m

— Tom Elliott (@tomselliott) September 10, 2025

Kirk, a frequent Fox News guest and occasional “Fox & Friends Weekend” host, was mourned across right-wing circles. 

On X, influencer Benny Johnson labeled him “a martyr.” Ben Shapiro of the Daily Wire recalled meeting Kirk at 18, predicting he’d lead the RNC. “Charlie became even bigger and more important than that,” Shapiro wrote.

MSNBC Fires Pundit For Charlie Kirk Comments

MSNBC has terminated political analyst Matthew Dowd following widespread backlash over comments he made during the network’s coverage of the assassination of conservative activist and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk on Wednesday.

Kirk, 31, was fatally shot on stage by an unidentified gunman during a “Prove Me Wrong” debate event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, prompting a national outcry and intense media scrutiny.

During MSNBC’s live coverage, anchored by Katy Tur at approximately 2:50 p.m. ET, Dowd appeared as a guest commentator and suggested that Kirk’s own rhetoric may have contributed to the violent act against him. 

Within seconds of reporting Kirk had been shot, anchor Katy Tur speculated aloud about whether President Donald Trump might “use the Charlie Kirk shooting as a justification for something bad.” MSNBC Politics reporter Allan Smith wondered if conservatives might now do something similar to the “take over Washington” as it did in response to a DOGE staffer getting mugged. All of this, as viewers were just learning that Kirk had been assassinated.

“He’s been one of the most divisive, especially divisive younger figures in this, who is constantly sort of pushing this sort of hate speech or sort of aimed at certain groups,” Dowd stated. He elaborated, “And I always go back to, hateful thoughts lead to hateful words, which then lead to hateful actions. And I think that is the environment we are in. You can’t stop with these sort of awful thoughts you have and then saying these awful words and not expect awful actions to take place. And that’s the unfortunate environment we are in.”

🚨 BREAKING: Matthew Dowd has been FIRED from MSNBC after blaming the assassination of Charlie Kirk on Charlie himself, per Variety

Good riddance, loser! pic.twitter.com/BbfFxTTzpM

— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) September 11, 2025

The remarks sparked immediate controversy, with critics on social media platforms, particularly X, accusing Dowd of victim-blaming and politicizing a tragedy. The backlash was amplified by conservative commentators and politicians, who argued that Dowd’s comments were not only insensitive but also reflective of broader media bias. 

By Wednesday evening, MSNBC president Rebecca Kutler issued a public apology, describing Dowd’s statements as “inappropriate, insensitive, and unacceptable.” She announced his termination, stating, “Such remarks have no place in our coverage, especially in the wake of such a tragic event, and we have ended our relationship with Mr. Dowd effective immediately.”

Kirk was shot near the neck during a question-and-answer session with a student, reportedly discussing mass shootings involving transgender individuals, as captured in widely circulated video footage. The gunman fled the scene, and despite a swift response from law enforcement, the suspect remains at large.

Fox News Channel Revamps Weekend Show Line-Up

Fox News Channel has announced a significant revamp of its weekend programming lineup,  effective starting Saturday, September 20, 2025. 

The changes, overseen by FOX News Media President and Executive Editor Jay Wallace, aim to expand news and opinion coverage, elevate rising stars, and innovate the schedule while ending the long-running media analysis show MediaBuzz. 

Jay Wallace

Wallace described the updates as bringing "unrivaled depth and expertise" to reinforce Fox News' leadership in cable news. This follows earlier 2025 adjustments, such as the January expansions of The Fox Report and The Big Weekend Show to two hours each, and the February launch of My View with Lara Trump on Saturdays at 9-10 PM ET.

Key changes include new shows, host promotions, and program expansions:

New Programs and Host Changes Saturday in America with Kayleigh McEnany: Former Trump White House Press Secretary and current Outnumbered co-host Kayleigh McEnany will launch a new two-hour show airing Saturdays from 10 AM to 12 PM ET. The program will focus on news, politics, and opinion, leveraging McEnany's background in communications and her role as a network contributor since 2021.

Fox & Friends Weekend: National correspondent and Fox News Live co-anchor Griff Jenkins will join as a permanent third co-host alongside Rachel Campos-Duffy and Charlie Hurt (who replaced Will Cain in January 2025). The show, which airs Saturday and Sunday mornings from 6-10 AM ET, will continue to cover news, entertainment, politics, and sports.

The Big Weekend Show: The ensemble panel discussion program will expand to three hours, airing Saturdays and Sundays from 5-8 PM ET. Johnny "Joey" Jones (a Fox News contributor and Marine veteran) and Tomi Lahren (a Fox Nation host since 2017) will join as permanent co-hosts, bringing the total to four rotating panelists discussing the week's top stories.

Cancellations and Transitions: After more than a decade on air, Howie Kurtz's Sunday morning Media Buzz show (11 AM-12 PM ET) will end. Kurtz, who joined Fox in 2013 from CNN, will transition to a political media analyst role, continuing to host the Media Buzzmeter podcast and contributing to Fox News Digital.

Impact on Other Weekend ShowsFox News Sunday (Sundays at 9-10:30 AM ET), anchored by Shannon Bream, remains unchanged in the announcements. Earlier 2025 additions like My View with Lara Trump (Saturdays 9-10 PM ET, premiered February 22) continue unaffected.

The January expansions: The Fox Report (anchored by Jon Scott, now 3-5 PM ET on weekends) and The Big Weekend Show (previously 6-8 PM ET)—have been further built upon with the new three-hour block. These shifts position more internal talent in prominent roles and emphasize extended coverage during high-engagement weekend slots. 

Fox News, already the top-rated cable news network, anticipates these changes will maintain its dominance in viewership, particularly amid ongoing political cycles.

Despite CarPlay, Radio Remains A Major Force In The Car

Edison Research’s Share of Ear® data highlights radio’s enduring role in Americans’ in-car audio consumption in 2025. AM/FM radio captures the largest share of daily in-car audio time among Americans aged 13+, particularly for those without Apple CarPlay or Android Auto in their primary vehicle. While radio remains dominant across various audience segments, its lead narrows in vehicles equipped with CarPlay or Android Auto.

The rise of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto has reshaped in-car audio habits. As of Q2 2025, over one-third of Americans 13+ have these technologies in their primary vehicle, with 83% of adults 18+ who have access actively using them. Although radio’s share drops to 47% among CarPlay or Android Auto users, it still leads as the top in-car audio platform. Streaming Audio and SiriusXM Radio each claim 20% of in-car listening time among these users, emerging as significant competitors.

Notably, podcast listening remains relatively low and consistent across bth groups, despite the increased adoption of digital platforms in connected vehicles.

Learn more about Share of Ear® on the Edison Research website.

Houston Radio: Gallant, Blank Out At ESPN KFNC

Sports radio KFNC 97.5 FM, known as ESPN 97.5 and operated by Gow Media, hasa announced the departure of two longtime talk show hosts: Paul Gallant and Joel Blank. 

The moves were attributed to budget cuts amid ongoing challenges in the radio industry, particularly in 2025. Both hosts confirmed the news via social media, expressing appreciation for their time at the station but noting the financial pressures behind the decisions.

Paul Gallant: A veteran Houston sports radio personality, Gallant had been with KFNC since early 2022, initially co-hosting mornings with Vanessa Richardson before moving to middays. In 2024, he partnered with Joe George for the "Gallant & George" show (noon-3 p.m. CT). His style was known for its candid, youthful edge, blending insider knowledge of Houston teams like the Texans, Astros, and Rockets with entertaining banter. Prior to KFNC, Gallant had a long tenure at rival station SportsRadio 610 (KILT-AM) from 2011 to 2019, where he hosted nights and mornings before being let go in a previous round of changes. He also launched a popular podcast, Gallant Says, after his 2019 exit.

Joel Blank: Blank served as a co-host on the afternoon drive show (3-7 p.m. CT) alongside Jeremy Branham. He had been a fixture at ESPN 97.5 for several years, contributing to the station's coverage of local sports and engaging listeners with his analytical takes. Blank's departure leaves a gap in the afternoons, where his partnership with Branham had built a steady following.

The station wasted no time adjusting its schedule:  Gallant's midday slot (noon-3 p.m.) is now filled by ESPN Radio's syndicated The Rich Eisen Show.  For afternoons, Joe George (formerly Gallant's co-host and the station's assistant program director) has joined Jeremy Branham to replace Blank. George previously hosted evenings with Last Call.

FCC Imposes Hefty Fines On Two Pirates

The FCC has imposed hefty fines on two unlicensed radio operators in separate cases, intensifying its enforcement under the PIRATE Act.

In Massachusetts, the FCC proposed a $60,000 fine against Radio Energy, Inc. and its president, Pelege Marcellin, for running unauthorized AM stations in Mattapan and Brockton under the name Radio Energy Boston. FCC agents from the Boston Field Office traced signals on 1620 kHz and 1640 kHz to commercial buildings with antennas and transmission lines exceeding legal limits for unlicensed operation. 

The signals matched Radio Energy Boston’s online stream, which Marcellin, the sole officer of the company, promoted as a Haitian music hub. The FCC deemed their actions "willful and knowing" pirate radio broadcasting, with the fine increased due to the operation of two unauthorized stations, risking interference with licensed broadcasts and public safety alerts.

Separately, the FCC finalized a $920,000 fine against Masner Beauplan of Middletown, NY, for operating Radio Leve Kanpe on 91.7 MHz in Irvington, NJ, over 46 days from November 16, 2023, to January 8, 2024. Beauplan failed to respond to the FCC’s Notice of Apparent Liability, resulting in the full penalty.

Unpaid fines may be referred to the U.S. Department of Justice for collection.The FCC stressed that pirate radio undermines spectrum integrity and can disrupt authorized broadcasts and Emergency Alert System transmissions. These actions align with the PIRATE Act, which allows fines up to $100,000 per day and $2 million total for unlicensed broadcasting.

Radio History: Sept 11

➦In 1909....Radio announcer Kenneth Banghart (right) born in Paramus, NJ (Died at age 70 - May 25, 1980 in Delray Beach, FL).

Banghart was working as a tour conductor and manager of Thomas Cook and Son Travel Agency in Washington, D.C., when he became a radio announcer at WRC, then went on to be a radio and television announcer, and a news commentator and sportscaster. Served briefly during WWII, as a war correspondent, then in 1944, he moved to New York where he became an NBC staff announcer.

He was the announcer Archie Andrews,  Katie's Daughter (1947-1948); syndicated program, Proudly We Hail (1947-1957); The Private Files Of Rex Saunders on NBC (1951); Encore on NBC (1952-1953); Best Of All on NBC (1954-1955).

Host of The Ken Banghart Show on NBC-Radio (1947); News Game on NBC-Radio (1954). Commentator on The Gillette Summer Sports Reel for NBC-TV (1953). In 1962, Banghart left NBC to work at CBS until he retired to Florida.

➦In 2000...John R. Gambling does the last “Rambling With Gambling” show on WOR 710 AM NYC.  Gambling joined his father as co-host of Rambling with Gambling in 1985, and took over as sole host in 1991 after his father's retirement. When WOR ended Rambling with Gambling in 2000 after 75 years on the air, John R. Gambling moved up the dial to 77WABC, taking over the post-morning-drive 10 a.m. - noon slot. Gambling was fired by WABC on February 29, 2008 in a cost-cutting move

➦In 2001...Terrorists attacked the World Trade Center in New York City silenced four FM and nine TV stations.

Since three of the major television broadcast network owned-and-operated stations had their transmission towers atop the North Tower (One World Trade Center), coverage was limited after the collapse of the tower. The FM transmitter of National Public Radio station WNYC was also destroyed in the collapse of the North Tower and its offices evacuated. For an interim period, it continued broadcasting on its AM frequency and used NPR's New York offices to produce its programming.

The satellite feed of one television station, WPIX, froze on the last image received from the WTC mast; the image (a remote-camera shot of the burning towers), viewable across North America (as WPIX is available on cable TV in many areas), remained on the screen for much of the day until WPIX was able to set up alternate transmission facilities. It shows the WTC at the moment power cut off to the WPIX transmitter, prior to the towers' collapse.

During the September 11, 2001 attacks, WCBS-TV channel 2 and WXTV-TV channel 41 stayed on the air. Unlike most other major New York television stations, WCBS-TV maintained a full-powered backup transmitter at the Empire State Building after moving its main transmitter to the North Tower of the World Trade Center. The station was also simulcasted nationally on Viacom (which at the time owned CBS) cable network VH1 that day. In the immediate aftermath of the attacks, the station lent transmission time to the other stations who had lost their transmitters, until they found suitable backup equipment and locations.

Television coverage of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, and their aftermath was the longest uninterrupted news event in the history of U.S. television.  The major U.S. broadcast and cable networks were on the air for days with uninterrupted coverage from the moment news first came that the first plane hit the World Trade Center.

Millions of shocked television viewers watching live pictures of the World Trade Center saw the second plane hit and both buildings come down. In order to keep up with the constant flood of information, at 10:49 a.m. EDT, Fox News Channel began running continuous updates in the form of a news ticker that crawled along the bottom of the screen. This was so well received by viewers that it became a permanent feature on the channel and was adopted by many other news channels.

Like television, almost all radio stations across the United States put a halt on all programs and commercials to simulcast affiliated news coverage of the attacks from ABC News Radio and CBS Radio News, or taking an audio simulcast of a television news operation, be it local or national, while national morning shows hosted by personalities such as Rick Dees or Howard Stern focused on providing both information about the attacks and call-in forums for listeners to express sympathies.

Charlie Kirk Has Died

Charlie Kirk (1993-2025)

4:45 PM Update: President Trump has posted on Truth Social that Charlie Kirk has died.

Political Activist and Salem Media radio host Charlie Kirk was hosting an event called the “American comeback tour” at Utah Valley University when he was shot. The appearance was part of Kirk’s tour to college campuses, where he often encourages students to debate him. Admission was free for both students and general attendees, according to the event page.

A petition with more than 900 signatures called on the university to cancel the speech because of what it called Kirk’s divisive rhetoric.

Utah Valley University said a shot was fired at Charlie Kirk at 12:10 p.m. local time. “He was hit and taken from the location by his security,” the university said on social media Wednesday afternoon, adding that a suspect was in custody.

Conservative talk show host and Turning Point USA CEO Charlie Kirk died after being shot in the neck during a student Q&A at Utah Valley University. pic.twitter.com/VD524GrqIL

— USA TODAY (@USATODAY) September 10, 2025

Kirk was giving a speech at the university when he was shot. The event had been set to start at noon, according to his organization’s event page.

Agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives have arrived at Utah Valley University, according to Attorney General Pam Bondi. FBI Director Kash Patel said federal investigators would support the response and investigation.

President Trump's attendance at a baseball game at Yankee Stadium is expected to feature tight security after his ally and conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot in Utah.

Even before the shooting, the Thursday evening game was expected to include a large presence by the U.S. Secret Service officials and members of the New York Police Department, according to a person with direct knowledge of the matter. Security could be ramped up in the aftermath of the shooting. The White House and the Secret Service didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment about their security plans or whether Trump’s plans to attend the game would change.

Recorded Music Revenue Makes Modest Grain

The U.S. recorded music industry experienced a slight year-over-year revenue increase of 0.9% in the first half of 2025, totaling $5.59 billion in wholesale value, according to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA)'s midyear report released Tuesday. 

This marks a slowdown from prior years' stronger gains, with streaming still dominating but facing headwinds in non-subscription segments.

Notably, the RIAA has transitioned to wholesale reporting this year—aligning with global standards like the IFPI's—to better reflect industry economics, though it complicates direct comparisons to past retail-based figures.

Key Highlights:

• Paid Subscriptions Surge: Total premium music subscribers reached 105.3 million, a net addition of 6.3 million from H1 2024 (outpacing that period's +2.5 million growth). This drove subscription revenues up 6.3% YoY to $2.89 billion, crossing the 100-million milestone and underscoring sustained demand despite price hikes from platforms like Spotify.
• Streaming Overall: While subscriptions shone, other streaming categories (e.g., ad-supported and programmatic) saw declines, tempering the format's total contribution of ~$4.68 billion (84% of revenues, up ~3.8% YoY).
• Physical Sales Slump: Revenues from physical formats dropped significantly, with vinyl stabilizing at ~$457 million (over 75% of physical share) but CDs and other media declining amid market saturation and shifting consumer habits. This offset streaming gains, contributing to the muted overall growth.

RIAA CEO Mitch Glazier called the figures a "stable foundation," emphasizing music's value and U.S. artists' global dominance (one-third of worldwide streams). However, the report signals challenges ahead, including potential economic pressures and the need for innovation in non-subscription revenue streams. Full-year projections remain optimistic if H2 trends like major album releases (e.g., Taylor Swift) boost physical and streaming engagement.

SoundExchange Appealing Lawsuit Loss vs SiriusXM

SoundExchange, a nonprofit collecting digital performance royalties, is appealing a U.S. District Court ruling from August 2025 that dismissed its $400 million lawsuit against SiriusXM for allegedly unpaid royalties. 

The lawsuit, filed in 2023, accused SiriusXM of underpaying by manipulating revenue allocations in bundled subscriptions. The court ruled SoundExchange lacks authority to sue in federal court under the Copyright Act, prompting its appeal to the Second Circuit on September 5, 2025. The outcome could limit SoundExchange’s enforcement powers, affect $1.4 billion in annual royalty distributions, and influence similar cases (e.g., Sonos). 

The ongoing dispute with SiriusXM, the leading U.S. satellite radio and streaming service, stems from allegations of royalty underpayment dating back several years. In August 2023, SoundExchange filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, accusing SiriusXM of "gaming the system" by manipulating revenue allocations in its bundled subscription packages. Specifically, SoundExchange claimed that SiriusXM inflated the value attributed to its webcasting (internet streaming) component— which has lower royalty rates under CRB rules—and subtracted that from the satellite radio revenue pool, which requires higher royalty payments (typically 15-20% of gross revenue). 

SiriusXM vehemently denied wrongdoing, asserting that its royalty calculations are "rigorous, tested, and fair" and fully compliant with CRB guidelines for bundled services. The company countersued, alleging bias in SoundExchange's audit and claiming it has overpaid royalties in some periods. It also successfully moved the case to the Southern District of New York, where SiriusXM's royalty operations are based.

The case took a dramatic turn in October 2024 when SiriusXM filed a motion to dismiss, arguing that SoundExchange lacks statutory authority under Section 114 to bring federal lawsuits for royalty disputes. On August 8, 2025, U.S. District Judge Naomi Reice Buchwald agreed, issuing a 33-page opinion dismissing the entire case. 

Spotify Launches Its Lossless Audio Feature

Spotify has launched lossless audio streaming as a free feature for all Premium subscribers, marking the end of a long wait that began with the company's initial announcement of a "Spotify HiFi" tier back in February 2021. 

This rollout, announced on September 10, 2025, provides access to higher-quality audio without requiring an additional subscription upgrade, contrary to earlier rumors that tied it to a pricier "super-Premium" option. Below, I'll break down the key details of the lossless feature, its context amid Spotify's premium tier developments, and what it means for users.

The feature is rolling out gradually to over 50 markets through October 2025, starting with countries like the US, UK, Australia, Germany, Japan, Sweden, and others. It's available across devices (mobile, desktop, web, and Connect-enabled hardware), but you must enable it manually on each one.

Lossless audio refers to uncompressed or losslessly compressed sound files that preserve the full fidelity of the original recording, delivering every detail without the data loss that occurs in standard compressed formats like MP3 or AAC. Spotify's implementation supports streaming up to 24-bit/44.1 kHz in FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) format, which is CD-quality or better and covers "nearly every song" in its catalog of over 100 million tracks. 

Premium users will receive an in-app notification when it's available in their region.

 An indicator will appear in the Now Playing bar and Connect menu when lossless is active.

SFM Spins Warshaw Claims As 'Fabricated'

The ongoing legal battle between Jeffrey Warshaw, CEO of Connoisseur Media, and Soros Fund Management (SFM), along with its Head of Media Investments Michael Del Nin, stems from an alleged broken verbal agreement related to Audacy's bankruptcy restructuring. 

Warshaw claims he was promised either the CEO position at Audacy post-reorganization or a 5% share of SFM's profits from its investment in the company, in exchange for his advisory role in sourcing and structuring the deal. 

SFM and Del Nin have consistently denied any such agreement existed, describing Warshaw's claims as "implausible" and "fabricated." 

The relationship between Warshaw and Del Nin began in September 2022, when a media banker introduced them as SFM sought to expand its radio investments. Their initial focus was on acquiring Cox Media Group's radio division, with Warshaw listed as an advisor on a July 2023 nondisclosure agreement. 

Warshaw alleges that during this period, Del Nin verbally promised him the CEO role for any acquired entity, plus a 5-6% profit share. The Cox deal collapsed in September 2023 due to unspecified issues.

Warshaw then pivoted to Audacy, which was undergoing Chapter 11 bankruptcy. In October 2023, he informed Del Nin that hedge fund HG Vora held a controlling stake in Audacy's distressed debt (over $400 million) and pitched a strategy for SFM to acquire it, allegedly securing the same CEO/profit assurances. 

Jeff Warshaw

Warshaw claims he introduced SFM to HG Vora that month and provided over a year of unpaid consulting from his Westport, Connecticut office, including advice on deal structure, FCC compliance, operations, and governance. This involved 125 phone calls (totaling 15+ hours), text exchanges (some using code words like "Defcon" for urgency), and an April 2024 dinner where Del Nin reportedly reaffirmed the promises.

SFM completed the Audacy debt acquisition in January 2024, emerging as the majority shareholder after the FCC approved Audacy's reorganization in September 2024. Audacy exited bankruptcy with David Field remaining as CEO (later replaced by Kelli Turner in January 2025), prompting Warshaw to email Del Nin for confirmation of their deal. 

Del Nin allegedly denied any agreement and cut off contact. Warshaw claims he forwent other partnerships (including potential deals with Cumulus Media) due to his exclusive commitment to SFM.

SFM counters that it had been analyzing Audacy independently since before meeting Warshaw, no formal or binding deal was ever made.

Connoisseur Media Names Format Leaders

Connoisseur Media continues to prioritize bolstering its programming infrastructure since closing on the Alpha Media acquisition.

Last week the company announced the promotion of Keith Dakin to Senior Vice President of Programming. Dakin, a 20-year industry veteran with prior roles at Entercom (now Audacy) and CBS Radio, brings expertise in content strategy, talent development, and multi-market coordination. 

And now the company has announced new slate of format coordinators to enhance localized execution. These roles are designed to oversee specific genres across Connoisseur's expanded portfolio, ensuring consistency while allowing market-specific adaptations. The hires include:

• 

  Keith Dakin

  Ben Davis: Top 40 — Operations Manager, Program Director, and co-host of Ben & Kelly in the Morning on WDJX/Louisville.
• Kevin Begley: Hot AC — Program Director and afternoon host at WEZN (Star 99.9)/Bridgeport, CT, with a key role in the success of the syndicated Anna & Raven Show.
• Darrick Williams: Urban / Rhythmic Top 40 — Operations Manager in Columbia, SC, overseeing Connoisseur’s Urban stations and now adding Rhythmic Top 40 responsibilities.
• Ross MacLeod: News-Talk — Joined as Operations Manager and Program Director for KXL (FM News 101)/Portland in July.
• Rob Kelley: Country — Operations Manager for Lincoln, NE, and Topeka, KS, continuing as Country Format Coordinator, a role he previously held at Alpha Media.
• Allan Lamberti: Rock — Programs Mainstream Rock WPLR/New Haven and News-Talk WICC/Bridgeport, with 20 years of experience at Connoisseur Media’s Connecticut stations.
• Patrick Shea: Long Island-based, working with emerging technology and radio automation companies to drive efficiency and innovation across Connoisseur’s markets.

These additions bring the programming team to over 30 full-time strategists, up from 15 pre-acquisition. The move aligns with industry trends toward consolidation amid declining traditional radio ad revenue, positioning Connoisseur to compete more aggressively with giants like iHeartMedia and Cumulus.

The acquisition of Alpha Media, announced in late 2024 and finalized in August 2025, marked a significant milestone, transforming Connoisseur into one of the largest radio groups in the country with approximately 200 stations spanning 50 markets nationwide.

TV Ratings: Viewership Down Leading-Up To The Labor Holiday

The week leading up to Labor Day typically sees lower viewership due to the unofficial end of summer, and most cable news networks experienced declines. MSNBC was the exception, posting a +4% gain in the total day Adults 25-54 demo, though it joined Fox News and CNN in primetime and total day declines for total viewers and, in some cases, the demo.

Network Performance (Nielsen Live Plus Same-Day Data):

Fox News:

• Primetime: Averaged 2.081 million total viewers (-14% vs. prior week) and 218,000 A25-54 viewers (-13%). Ranked #1 in total viewers and #2 in the demo.
• Total Day: Averaged 1.383 million total viewers (-9%) and 151,000 A25-54 viewers (-12%). Held #1 in total viewers and #2 in the demo.
• Year-Over-Year: Down -10% in primetime total viewers, -24% in the demo; flat in total day viewers, -16% in the demo.

MSNBC:

• Primetime: Averaged 738,000 total viewers (-8%) and 67,000 A25-54 viewers (-14%). Ranked #3 in total viewers and #17 in the demo.
• Total Day: Averaged 494,000 total viewers (-4%) and 47,000 A25-54 viewers (+4%, the only network with growth). Ranked #3 in total viewers and #13 in the demo.
• Year-Over-Year: Down -43% in primetime total viewers, -53% in the demo; down -42% in total day viewers, -47% in the demo.

CNN:

• Primetime: Averaged 362,000 total viewers (-18%) and 69,000 A25-54 viewers (-7%). Dropped to #11 in total viewers and #16 in the demo.
• Total Day: Averaged 314,000 total viewers (-8%) and 50,000 A25-54 viewers (-6%). Ranked #4 in total viewers and #11 in the demo.
• Year-Over-Year: Down -65% in primetime total viewers and the demo; down -43% in total day viewers, -50% in the demo.

Fox News dominated with 14 of the top 15 cable news shows in both total viewers and the A25-54 demo. The Five led with 3.435 million total viewers and 311,000 demo viewers at 5 p.m. ET.

MSNBC’s The Rachel Maddow Show (Mondays, 9 p.m. ET) ranked #10 in total viewers (1.850 million) and #13 in the demo (162,000).