Radio News and Headlines

WRWN & WGCO/Savannah Appoint Steve McKay as PD

Steve McKay

Dick Broadcasting Company (DBC) appoints Steve McKay as the new Program Director for Classic Hits WRWN (Rewind 107.9) and CHR WGCO (Hot 98.3) in Savannah, GA. McKay, a veteran radio programmer, returns to the South after a notable tenure as Brand Manager at Townsquare Media in New Jersey. Previously, he served in roles at Cumulus Media in Columbia, SC, and Wilmington, NC, and as the inaugural Program Director of WPTE in Norfolk.

“I’m delighted to join the team at DBC in Savannah. I want to thank Market Manager Aaron Wilborn, DBC VP of Programming Jason Goodman, and Nathan James for affording me this outstanding opportunity. We’ve got some great heritage brands in place, and it’s going to be exciting to elevate them further in the minds of our listeners and clients by being fun, exciting, and local. I can’t wait,” expressed McKay.

Jason Goodman, DBC Vice President of Programming, who previously worked with McKay, praised his strategic vision and passion for radio broadcasting. “Steve’s dedication will drive programming to super-serve the local community with engaging content, promotions, and branding,” Goodman noted.

Aaron Wilborn, Market Manager, emphasized the rigorous selection process and McKay’s standout qualities. “After a long interview process, it was clear that Steve was the best for the position. I couldn’t be more excited about adding Steve to our talented and local programming team. His knowledge, creativity, and passion made him the perfect choice,” Wilborn stated.

Christian FM Media Group Names Jayme Summers as OD/PD

Jayme Summers

Christian FM Media Group appoints Jayme Summers as the new Program Director and Operations Director for its “Today’s Christian Music” network, currently airing across 167 stations. Summers transitions to her new role following Christian FM Media Group’s acquisition of the “Today’s Christian Music” and “Today’s Worship Music” syndication networks from Salem Media. This acquisition coincided with the sale of the “Fish” stations to Educational Media Foundation (EMF) on February 1.

Having previously served as the Director of Programming and Operations at Salem Music Network in Nashville, Summers brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to her new position. Her contributions have significantly shaped the programming at stations like 94FM The Fish, where she also co-hosted an afternoon show that clinched the 2023 Radio’s Got Talent competition.

“I couldn’t be more excited to step into this role,” Summers commented. “Over the years, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to experience firsthand the passion, dedication, and faith-driven mission of the team at Christian FM. Their love for the Lord and unwavering commitment to serving Him have been truly inspiring. I deeply admire the vision that Jon and Paul have for the future of our company, and I’m thrilled to roll up my sleeves and be part of bringing that vision to life.”

In her new capacity, Summers will oversee programming strategy not only for “Today’s Christian Music” but also for “Today’s Worship Music,” and she will handle music and label relations for the network.

Urban One Announces Accounting Firm Transition

Urban One

Urban One, Inc has officially announced a shift in its financial oversight structure, parting ways with Ernst & Young LLP (EY) and appointing PricewaterhouseCoopers LLC (PwC) as its new independent registered public accounting firm. This change, approved by the audit committee of the company’s board of directors, took effect on April 7.

The company’s decision follows a period during which its financial statements, audited by EY for the years ending December 31, 2024, and December 31, 2023, received no adverse opinions. These reports were not qualified or modified concerning uncertainties, audit scope, or accounting principles.

Despite the smooth transition in external auditors, Urban One disclosed multiple material weaknesses in its internal control over financial reporting. These issues, highlighted in their annual reports, range from inadequate entity-level controls and IT general controls to insufficient management review controls. The deficiencies noted include the failure to restrict user access adequately, lack of precise management reviews, and inadequate controls over the financial statement close process.

Particularly concerning were the lapses in internal controls related to IT equipment purchases and the recognition of such equipment as fixed assets. These gaps, according to the company, stemmed from insufficient personnel with the necessary GAAP knowledge and experience in overseeing internal controls, which has been a recurring theme in the firm’s challenges with maintaining robust financial reporting practices.

The company has made efforts to remediate some of these weaknesses as reflected in its latest annual report, yet the continuation of several material weaknesses suggests an ongoing struggle with internal governance.

Urban One has provided EY with a copy of the disclosure made in this latest SEC filing and has received a confirmation letter from EY, filed with the SEC, agreeing with the disclosures made.

As Urban One transitions to PwC for its fiscal year ending December 31, 2025, it has not sought advice from PwC on any accounting or auditing matters during the consultation period, ensuring an independent start to their new auditor relationship.

Martha Teichner to Receive Lifetime Achievement Award

Martha Teichner

The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) has announced that Martha Teichner, a veteran correspondent for CBS Sunday Morning, will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 50th Annual Gracie Awards Luncheon. The event is set to take place on June 18 at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York.

Teichner, whose journalism career spans over five decades, will be presented the award by Jane Pauley, the CBS Sunday Morning host and a former recipient of the same accolade. This honor recognizes Teichner’s profound impact and legacy in the media industry, highlighting her role as a pioneer for women in journalism.

Becky Brooks, President of the AWM Foundation, praised Teichner’s contributions, stating, “Martha Teichner is a legendary storyteller of unmatched depth and insight. Across continents and decades, Martha’s work has educated, united, and inspired audiences around the world. It is fitting that, in our 50th year of honoring women in media, we recognize a woman whose voice has shaped the very fabric of journalism.”

Throughout her illustrious career, Teichner has been known for her eloquence, compassion, and insatiable curiosity. From her beginnings in a country western radio station in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to her prominent role on national television, she has covered a diverse range of topics from global conflicts to cultural stories.

Reflecting on the obstacles she faced, Teichner shared a poignant memory from her early days, “When I started my news career in 1971, at a country western radio station in Grand Rapids, Michigan, a listener wrote in that he didn’t ‘want a woman cluttering up MY airwaves.’ I cried, but I’ve spent more than fifty years since then working to help bring about a major attitude adjustment. I’d like to believe that who I am and what I stand for have made a difference to women.”

The Gracie Awards, named after the legendary Gracie Allen, celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, continuing its tradition of recognizing exemplary achievements in media by women across various platforms, including television, radio, and digital media.

Majority of Americans Still Prefer Ad-Supported Audio

Edison Research

Despite the surge in popularity of ad-free subscription services like Spotify Premium, YouTube Premium, and Apple Music, a significant portion of Americans continue to opt for ad-supported audio. According to Edison Research’s latest Share of Ear study for Q1 2025, 64% of the daily audio consumption among Americans aged 13 and older is dominated by ad-supported sources such as AM/FM radio, radio streams, music on YouTube with ads, SiriusXM talk channels, free versions of streaming services, and podcasts.

Data indicates a pronounced preference for ad-supported listening, especially among older demographics. Individuals aged 55 and above are particularly inclined towards ad-supported audio, with 75% of their listening time dedicated to such sources.

Conversely, younger listeners (ages 18-34) show a closer split in their audio preferences. While ad-supported sources still lead, 46% of their listening time is spent on ad-free audio. This trend among younger listeners underscores the shifting dynamics in audio consumption, driven by the accessibility and affordability of removing ads on platforms like Spotify and YouTube.

This enduring preference for ad-supported audio underscores its effectiveness as a medium for reaching consumers and boosting brand awareness. The evolving landscape of audio consumption poses interesting questions on how these trends will shift as more users gain access to ad removal options.

Edison Research’s ongoing Share of Ear study continues to track these changes, providing valuable insights for advertisers and content creators aiming to optimize their strategies to meet listener preferences.

Bruce Logan Departs Hubbard in West Palm Beach as OM

Bruce Logan

Bruce Logan has parted ways with Hubbard Broadcasting in West Palm Beach, where he had served as Operations Manager. He had held dual roles as OM for the cluster and Program Director for WIRK (New Country 103.1) and AC WEAT (Sunny 107.9). Grover Collins, the Program Director of WUBE (B-105) in Cincinnati, will now take over programming responsibilities for New Country 103.1.

Logan expressed his gratitude for his time with Hubbard Broadcasting in a statement to Country Aircheck, thanking several key figures including Ginny Morris, Dave Bestler, Greg Strassell, and Elizabeth Hamma. He noted his excitement for future opportunities in the evolving audio industry, stating, “After taking a break, we will figure out the next best move for my family.”

Since joining the Hubbard cluster in 2019, Logan has had a significant impact. His prior roles included Vice President of Programming for Entercom in Houston and nearly two decades with iHeartMedia/Clear Channel in markets such as Charlotte, Greenville SC, and Greensboro.

NAB Show 2025 Wraps Up, Highlighting Innovation in Media

NAB Show

The 2025 NAB Show concluded on Wednesday, having attracted significant attention with its display of advanced technology and extensive industry insights. This year’s edition has been pivotal, emphasizing its role as the leading business event amidst the continuously transforming landscape of content creation and technology.

Karen Chupka, Executive Vice President of NAB Show, remarked, “The 2025 NAB Show truly exemplified the vibrant evolution of media and entertainment, debuting tools and technologies for all storytellers.” She highlighted the event’s role in fostering a global platform that nurtures innovation, diverse voices, and forward-thinking discussions, pivotal in shaping future storytelling dynamics.

The event saw a turnout of 55,000 registered attendees from 160 different countries, marking a substantial international presence with 26% of participants hailing from outside the U.S. This year’s show noted a remarkable 53% of attendees were first-time registrants, indicating the expanding global influence and relevance of the NAB Show.

A key focus of the show was on defining future trends in the media and entertainment industry, with artificial intelligence, the creator economy, and the intersection of sports and technology taking center stage. With nearly 1,100 exhibitors-including 125 first-timers-global brands like Adobe, AWS, and Microsoft showcased their latest innovations across an exhibit space equating to more than eight soccer fields.

In addition to the vast exhibition, the NAB Show offered over 550 conference sessions featuring more than 1,000 speakers. High attendance in sessions about AWS, AI, and sports streaming underscored a growing industry demand for knowledge on emerging technologies. The Creator Lab was another highlight, providing a dedicated space for digital creators to explore new tools and resources aimed at enhancing their brand presence.

Furthering its commitment to the creator community, NAB announced the launch of its Creator Council. This new advisory group, consisting of influential creators and thought leaders, aims to amplify creator voices and guide NAB’s engagement with the evolving creator economy. The council will provide strategic advice to help NAB stay at the forefront of content creation and technology trends.

Jon Patch Celebrates 35 Years of ”Talkin’ Pets” on Radio

Jon Patch

This month marks the 35th anniversary of Jon Patch’s “Talkin’ Pets,” the longest-running pet radio show, broadcasting live every Saturday from 5-8pm ET on CRN. The show, which features a rotating panel of veterinarians and trainers, has become a staple for pet lovers seeking advice on pet care, training, and health issues.

“Talkin’ Pets” offers a unique blend of education and entertainment, addressing the needs of domestic animals and their owners. Jon Patch, together with his team of 15 regular professionals, tackles both medical and behavioral questions, providing listeners with valuable insights into pet care in an industry worth $150 billion annually.

Over the years, the program has not only focused on pet care but has also highlighted important animal welfare and environmental issues affecting wildlife and farm animals across the globe. The show has welcomed an array of celebrity guests including Linda Blair, Tippi Hedren, and Billy Joel, along with esteemed figures like Jane Goodall and Dean Koontz. The late Betty White and Bob Barker were also frequent visitors, adding to the show’s appeal and outreach.

“Talkin’ Pets” has aired from various notable locations including Universal Studios, SeaWorld, and the Los Angeles Zoo. Jon Patch has also hosted remotes from high-profile events like The Genesis Awards and The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. These live broadcasts have allowed listeners to engage with international authors, pet product CEOs, and other industry leaders, enhancing the interactive experience of the show.

In addition to his radio career, Jon Patch is also recognized as a film critic with 30 years of experience and an actor in the upcoming film “Velvet Hammer.” His critiques often focus on animal portrayal in cinema, reflecting his commitment to animal advocacy.

MIW Honors Dan Spears with Erica Farber Impact Award

Dan Spears

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio (MIW) has honored Dan Spears, Vice President of Industry Relations and Licensing at BMI, with the 2nd Annual MIW Erica Farber Impact Award. The award ceremony took place during the MIW Lipstick & Lobster Dinner at Maggiano’s on Monday, April 7.

The MIW Erica Farber Impact Award is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the radio and broadcasting industry by engaging with impactful organizations and generously dedicating their time, expertise, and resources. Recipients of this award are recognized for their commitment to service and their efforts to promote growth and progress within the industry.

During the presentation, MIW Board President Sheila Kirby lauded Spears for his leadership and commitment to the industry. “Dan is the epitome of a leader who not only advocates for progress but actively makes it happen,” Kirby stated. “His dedication to mentorship, industry collaboration, and fostering new events and opportunities for women is invaluable. We are honored to recognize his contributions with this award.”

In his role at BMI, Spears has been instrumental in developing sponsorships and strategic partnerships that enhance the visibility and financial stability of BMI affiliates and licensees through BMI songwriter performances. His collaboration extends to major industry organizations such as the National Association of Broadcasters, National Restaurant Association, and the Radio Advertising Bureau, where he supports various legislative and business initiatives.

Expressing his gratitude for the recognition, Spears remarked, “I am incredibly honored to receive this award from MIW. Mentorship and advocacy are at the heart of progress, and I’m proud to contribute to an industry that continues to create opportunities for women and diverse voices. Thank you to MIW for this recognition and for the invaluable work you do.”

Spears, who joined BMI in 1988 and has served in various leadership roles, follows Erica Farber as the second recipient of this prestigious award. Before joining BMI, Spears was a Morning News Anchor and Talk Show Host at WCBM-AM in Baltimore.

CMG’s Clark Named Society of Broadcast Engineers Fellow

Roz Clark

The Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE) elevates Roz Clark, Executive Director of Radio Engineering for Cox Media Group, to the membership rank of Fellow. Clark joined the SBE in 1990 and has held continuous membership since 2000. He served two terms on the SBE Board of Directors in 2018 and 2020 and has been the treasurer for SBE Chapter 39 since 2013.

“Roz represents what’s best in our Cox Media Group leaders,” said Rob Babin, EVP of CMG Radio. “He leads with unwavering conviction, empathy, and by example. Guided by experience and fueled by expertise, he turns challenges into opportunities and ideas into impact.”

Clark joined CMG in 1993 and has been involved throughout his career with the National Radio Systems Committee, the IEEE Broadcast Technology Society, the Association of Federal Communications Consulting Engineers, and has served on the NAB’s Radio Technology Committee. He’s also been a driving force in his chapter’s annual Technical Symposium.

“I’m a huge believer in the power of Radio and the unique way we bring local news, emergency information, entertainment, and important discussions to communities,” said Clark. “It’s been my life’s mission to help inform, entertain and elevate the audiences we serve, and there’s not place I’d rather be than where I am right now.”

According to those who nominated Clark for SBE Fellow, he is a “leader who can both listen well and execute well” and is an “exemplary force in bridging the technical operations and the company management needs.” One nominator wrote, “His passion for the radio business is shown by his involvement and paving the way so that there is a future for this medium.”

In 2015, Clark was awarded the Robert W. Flanders SBE Engineer of the Year Award. In 2021, he earned Radio World’s Excellence in Engineering Award.

Skyrocket Radio Unveils AI Content VO for Radio Production

Skyrocket Radio

Skyrocket Radio has introduced a new solution called AI Content VO, aimed at transforming how radio stations produce newscasts and commercials. This new website extension leverages sophisticated artificial intelligence technology to automate the creation of broadcast content, making it easier for stations with limited staff to maintain a robust on-air presence.

Jim Sherwood, Founder of Skyrocket Radio, emphasized the tool’s practical origins and its potential to streamline operations. “We developed AI Content VO as a powerful yet accessible solution for stations looking to expand their on-air offerings without overextending resources,” Sherwood explained. He recounted how the extension was conceptualized after an affiliate with minimal staff faced the challenge of losing its newsperson, which spurred the need for an innovative solution.

AI Content VO offers several key features designed to enhance the efficiency and quality of radio production, including Automated Script Generation, Diverse AI Voices, Commercial Copywriter Persona, and Instant Audio Production.

Sherwood also noted that while AI Content VO is a powerful tool, it is designed to complement, not replace, the human element in broadcasting. “There’s no substitute for the creativity, intuition, and local expertise that news producers, copywriters, and on-air personalities bring,” he said. The aim is to free up human talent to focus on deeper storytelling and more meaningful engagement with audiences.

AI Content VO is currently available as a premium add-on for Skyrocket Radio website subscribers.

”What We Spend” Delves into Personal Finance Stories

”What We Spend”

Audacy has introduced a new original weekly podcast series titled “What We Spend,” hosted by the Courtney Harrell. The series is set to launch on Wednesday, April 9 and will feature episodes every Wednesday across various podcast platforms.

The podcast aims to uncover the diverse financial habits of Americans from varying backgrounds and economic statuses through intimate audio diaries and revealing interviews. “What We Spend” invites listeners into the financial lives of its guests, providing a candid look at their earnings, desires, and weekly expenditures.

The lineup of guests features a broad spectrum of American life, including Kellie, a med spa director burdened by student loans; Michael, a teacher and single father; Jay, a religious studies professor concerned about parenting costs; Cherry, a retired social worker uncertain about her financial future; Maxine, a long-haul trucker struggling with housing affordability; and Olivia, an actress facing life’s uncertainties post-Broadway.

Maddy Sprung-Keyser, VP and Head of Original Podcasts at Audacy, expressed enthusiasm about the new series, stating, “As we continue to expand our slate of powerful originals, we’re excited to launch this narratively driven personal finance podcast that meets the demands of both our top advertisers and our listeners.”

She added, “‘What We Spend’ touches on a subject that affects everyone but is somehow still considered taboo. With very personal, often funny, and sometimes heartbreaking stories from real people across the country, this show offers a captivating look at our relationship with money.”

Courtney Harrell, the host, is a writer and Senior Producer at Audacy’s Pineapple Street Studios. Her notable works include “The Competition,” the Peabody-nominated “Running from COPS,” and “9/12,” a Dupont finalist which garnered acclaim from major publications like the New Yorker, New York Times, and Time.

The podcast is produced by Margo Gray and Kristen Torres, with Jonathan Menjivar, host and creator of “Classy,” serving as the editor. The series is also executive produced by Maddy Sprung-Keyser and Leah Reis-Dennis.

NAB Advocates for Broadcasters’ Interests in 119th Congress

National Association of Broadcasters (NAB)

In an announcement at the NAB Show, Curtis LeGeyt, President and CEO of the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), outlined the policy agenda for the 119th Congress aimed at empowering broadcasters. The discourse, presented during a member town hall, emphasized the pivotal role of broadcasters in their communities and introduced a new NAB website designed to streamline advocacy efforts.

“Broadcasters play a vital role in their communities, from reporting on dangerous weather events to covering local sports and news, and it is truly an honor to advocate on behalf of local stations in Washington,” LeGeyt remarked. He underscored the commitment to securing policies that bolster the functionality of local stations, highlighting efforts to persuade the FCC to overhaul outdated ownership regulations and to maintain AM radio in vehicles, which is essential for public safety.

The newly launched website delineates six key policy priorities crucial for broadcasters:

• Modernizing outdated broadcast ownership rules to enhance competitiveness.
• Ensuring AM radio remains a standard in cars for public safety.
• Supporting the adoption of NEXTGEN TV to protect critical infrastructure.
• Opposing changes that would affect the tax deductibility of advertising.
• Contesting any new performance tax on local radio.
• Safeguarding broadcasters’ investment in local content.

Following the State Leadership Conference in March, the “AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act” has gained significant support, demonstrating a strong commitment from lawmakers. This act, backed by a filibuster-proof majority in the Senate and over 140 cosponsors in the House, aims to keep AM radio accessible in vehicles, a critical component of the national emergency alert system.

In addition, LeGeyt announced a campaign urging the FCC to modernize broadcast ownership rules that currently hinder local stations’ ability to compete with unrestrained digital giants like Amazon, Netflix, and YouTube.

The NAB’s advocacy efforts are crucial as broadcasters navigate the evolving media landscape, marked by challenges from big tech companies and changing consumption patterns. The association continues to call on Congress to enact and support legislation that ensures the viability and progression of local broadcasting, essential for maintaining a well-informed public.

For more details on the NAB’s policy priorities and advocacy efforts, visit nab.org/policypriorities.

Curtis Media Group/Raleigh Ups Lisa Hobbs VP of Sales

Lisa Hobbs

Curtis Media Group promotes Lisa Hobbs to Vice President of Sales for its FM and Digital Properties in Raleigh-Durham, a move effective immediately. Hobbs, who joined the company in 2017, most recently served as the Director of Digital Media. In her new capacity, Hobbs will oversee sales operations for WQDR-FM, WBBB-FM, WKIX, WKXU & WKJO-FM, and WPLW FM.

Jonathan Brewster, Executive Vice President of Curtis Media, praised Hobbs’ contributions, stating, “Lisa has been a key contributor to many important initiatives at Curtis Media, and we’re thrilled to see her step into a role with greater responsibilities. Her dedication and leadership continue to make a meaningful impact.”

Hobbs added, “I am honored and excited to step into the role of VP of Sales. I am grateful for the journey and looking forward to driving even greater success together as a team.” Trip Savery, President and COO of Curtis Media Group, also commented on Hobbs’ promotion: “Lisa has significantly grown our digital and events enterprises, and has developed into one of our most effective leaders. I am confident she will continue that success in this new role.”

”Dub Dynasty” Explores Golden State Warriors’ Legacy

”Dub Dynasty”

iHeartPodcasts, in collaboration with the NBA, have launched a new podcast titled “Dub Dynasty.” This ten-episode series delves into the Golden State Warriors’ (GSW) remarkable journey over the past decade, which includes four NBA championships and the establishment of one of modern sports’ most influential dynasties.

Hosted by Israel Gutierrez, a veteran sports commentator with Meadowlark Media, “Dub Dynasty” promises an insider look at the trials and triumphs of the Warriors. The narrative begins with Gutierrez’s early encounters with NBA basketball, leading up to the Warriors’ transformative years that propelled them to greatness after a long championship drought since 1975.

The first episode features a tale from the 2009 NBA Draft, revealing a pivotal moment that could have altered the course of the franchise by nearly missing out on acquiring star player Stephen Curry. Gutierrez unpacks the skepticism around Curry’s potential to achieve superstar status and how these doubts were spectacularly dispelled over time.

Listeners can expect a lineup of guests throughout the series including veteran sportscaster Mike Breen, journalist Rachel Nichols, and NBA stars like Kevin Love, Trae Young, and DeMarcus Cousins. Steve Kerr, the head coach of the Warriors, will also appear to provide his perspectives on the team’s strategies and successes.

“Dub Dynasty” is part of the NBA Podcast Network and is available on the iHeart app and other podcast platforms, with new episodes releasing every Tuesday starting April 8.

Vinylthon 2025 to Celebrate its 10th Anniversary

Vinylthon 2025

The 10th annual Vinylthon is set for April 12 and 13, with over 230 radio stations worldwide gearing up to celebrate the cherished vinyl format. This year, the event is honored to have Joey Santiago, the co-founder and guitarist of the Pixies, as its ambassador. Vinylthon is an annual event for radio stations across the U.S. and the world who want to celebrate the format of vinyl music by playing at least one hour of vinyl-only music on the two days.

Santiago expressed his deep connection to vinyl, stating, “I like the ritual of it. Visiting the record store, your mom-and-pops, it’s great. And once they get to know you, they’ll know your style.” Santiago, who incorporates vinyl listening into his daily routine, shared, “It’s part of my social routine where I start the morning with a record! I grab my tea, listen to a whole record, and it gives me a break.”

As part of his role, Santiago has recorded an exclusive interview that will be aired on participating stations. The Pixies, who recently released their album “The Night the Zombies Came,” are preparing for their upcoming tour across Europe and the USA.

The Vinylthon is organized by the non-profit College Radio Foundation and invites all stations, both commercial and non-commercial, to partake in this celebration of vinyl’s enduring appeal. This year, stations broadcasting at least 24 hours of vinyl-only content will receive the 2025 Golden Slipmat Award. In a new initiative, those who extend their broadcast to 48 hours of all-vinyl content will be eligible for the first-ever 2025 Diamond Slipmat Award, sponsored by Glowtronics.

The event will also feature exclusive radio content from notable artists such as Corduroy Brown, The Lone Bellow, Josh Ritter, Joss Stone, among others, ensuring a rich and diverse musical experience for listeners.

Beyond the celebration of vinyl, Vinylthon serves as a charitable event, with proceeds going towards student scholarships aimed at those aspiring to careers in the radio industry. This initiative helps to ensure that the future of broadcasting remains vibrant and robust.

Dr. Rob Quicke, founder of Vinylthon and Director of W. Page Pitt School of Journalism and Mass Communications at Marshall University, remarked, “We are thrilled to see Vinylthon grow each year, with more stations embracing the unique magic of vinyl. This event is about more than music-it’s about community, connection, and supporting the next generation of radio broadcasters. It’s not too late for stations to participate.”

For those interested in joining the celebration or seeking more information, visit vinylthon.com.

Report Urges Brands to Invest in Black-Owned Audio

National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters (NABOB)

A new report released by the National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters (NABOB), in collaboration with Nielsen, underscores the significant influence and unique engagement of Black consumers with audio media. The report, entitled “Reaching the Culture: Investing with Audio to Win with Black Consumers,” highlights the critical role Black-owned media plays in reaching an influential audience with nearly $2.1 trillion in buying power and encompassing over 48 million Americans.

According to the report, despite the widespread adoption of digital media, 90% of Black consumers continue to rely on radio for entertainment, information, and community connections. This enduring connection with radio is a testament to its role as a trusted medium within Black communities, providing not only music and news but also a platform for cultural exchange and community building.

Jim Winston, President of NABOB, emphasized the importance of Black-owned media, stating, “Black media is not niche, it’s necessary.” He further noted that Black-owned radio and audio platforms have consistently been at the forefront of cultural trends and movements, making them pivotal in shaping community narratives and trust.

The report also reveals a notable shift in media consumption among Black Millennials, who are characterized as tech-savant and influential within their communities. Approximately 55% of Black Millennials consider themselves trendsetters, with many influenced significantly by local radio hosts’ endorsements, showcasing the potential for targeted and culturally resonant advertising strategies.

Don Lowery, Senior Vice President of Civic Engagement at Nielsen, pointed out that truly understanding the value of Black audiences extends beyond mere numbers. “It’s about measuring impact,” he said, advocating for a strategic shift in how brands engage with Black consumers through media.

“Reaching the Culture” is not only a comprehensive analysis of media consumption habits but also a call to action for advertisers to invest more meaningfully in Black-owned media. By doing so, brands can achieve more authentic connections and engagements with one of the most influential demographic groups in the nation.

The full report is available for download here, providing detailed insights and strategies for brands looking to enhance their outreach and impact within Black communities through audio media platforms.