SoundExchange Distributions Rise
SoundExchange says it distributed $208.7 million in sound recording performance royalties in the second quarter of 2018. That's an increase of 17.5% over 2017 ($177.6 million). The company paid that money out to 28,065 performers, an increase of 9% over 2017 (25,681). So far in 2018 SoundExchange has paid out nearly $399 million in royalties.
Pandora’s Opens Its Programmatic Doors
Pandora's audio inventory is now generally available for programmatic buying. Audio joins Pandora’s existing display and video solutions available for purchase programmatically. Pandora claims it owns the largest inventory of digital audio content in the U.S., and 92% of its audience is ad-supported — more than double the size of its competition.
iHeartRadio Creates “Your Weekly Mixtape”
iHeartRadio has created “Your Weekly Mixtape," a personalized playlist for each listener, updated each Monday. iHeart is rolling out the new feature to all registered users. It is a personalized playlist with music from the listener’s favorite artists and songs, as well as new releases and trending music fine-tuned for each individual listener every week.
Univision Deportes Now on SiriusXM
Univision Deportes, the sports division of Univision Communications, and SiriusXM have announced that Univision Deportes Radio is now available on SiriusXM's channel 467.
AdsWizz Launches Podcast Platform Partnership Program
And that initial wave of podcast platform and solution providers includes Libsyn, Blubrry, Voxnest, StreamGuys, and EmpireStreaming.
Hispanic Motivator Marin Joins reVolver
Well-known author, motivational speaker, social media influencer, and radio and TV personality María Marin will now be heard on reVolver Podcasts with her new weekly motivational podcast Hablando De Frente con María Marin Marin.
“Hidden Truth” Season 2 Kicks Off With Transgender Focus
Hidden Truth: Transgender Movement, the second installment of a weekly hour-long podcast series created by civil rights attorney and host Jim Breslo, has debuted on the heels of wrapping his first season, Hidden Truth: Las Vegas Shooter.
SiriusXM & Kia Sign For Five More Years
SiriusXM and Kia Motors America are extending the relationship between the two companies for five more years, through the 2023 model year. Customers will continue to get a three-month introductory SiriusXM All Access subscription with the purchase or lease of SiriusXM-equipped vehicles.
Netflix Getting Into The Audio Space
Netflix and SiriusXM are teaming up on an all-new, exclusive comedy radio channel. The new channel will include material from the Netflix stand-up catalog. SiriusXM will also broadcast comedy talk shows from Netflix plus additional original programming. This partnership marks the first time Netflix will bring its content to an audio service. The launch is planned for January.
iHeart, Westwood, ESPN to Participate in Podcast Upfronts
The Interactive Advertising Bureau unveiled the roster for the fourth annual IAB Podcast Upfront which will be held in New York City September 6. The full-day event helps brands and media buyers learn about the latest podcast advertising opportunities from content creators. Here's the roster of companies that will attend...