Headlines

The Radio Music License Committee and ASCAP have inked a new five-year agreement through 2021 that sets the rates payable by over 10,000 radio stations to play more than 10.5 million musical works in the ASCAP repertory. RMLC Chairman Ed Christian said the agreement demonstrates how the creative and music-user communities can work together in good faith to produce an outcome that is positive for both sides. Here are the details of the deal.

Rush Limbaugh's two new contract extensions, with Premiere in August and 33 Cumulus stations this week, are proof the talk radio format is alive and well despite the grumblings of many who believe the format only speaks to a demo three steps from the grave. Critics have said talk radio has become nothing more than a consistent barrage of insults aimed at any Democratic President. Over the past 18 months talk radio was much more than that.

Radio ABC Radio has announced a series of programs – both long-form and short-form – looking back at the major stories and events of 2016. Here’s the full list...

The Cumulus station is hosting the 3rd annual live broadcast and Holiday Party for the Kids at Children’s Specialized Hospital today (Thurday, December 15). Todd & Jayde in the Morning is being broadcast live from the hospital with performances by Colbie Caillat and American Idol Season 14 Winner Nick Fradiani and an appearance by The Bobby Lynch Band.

In tandem with Treehouse, a nonprofit organization addressing the essential education and enrichment needs of kids in foster care, the station topped the half-million-dollar mark during the 28th Annual Holiday Magic Fundraiser on December 14, 2016. The program raises money to provide each child with one significant holiday gift along with support for programs and services throughout the year.

It was the eighth annual Christmas Choir Competition for Philadelphia's 101.1 More FM (WBEB) and the station has announced the winners. The winner of this year’s competition in the 9-12 grade division was the North Penn High School - Chamber Singers. The winner in the K-8 grade division was Clearview Regional Middle School – 8th Grade Choir. Each school receives a $5,000 cash prize for its music department.

The stations involved were The New 93Q, Country Legends 97.1, and 106.9 and 107.5 This was the 13th annual Radiothon on Dec. 1-2,  and the final figure for contributions was $655,329.

Charlotte’s 102.9 The Lake and 106.5 The End raised over $16,000 and collected more than 1,000 toys for Kids First of the Carolinas, an organization that provides Charlotte-area families with the services and resources.

The 3-year deal between Premiere Networks and Cumulus will keep Rush on 33 Cumulus stations through 2019. Rush recently celebrated 28 years on the air. Back in August, Rush signed a new 4-year deal with Premiere to syndicate his program. Cumulus stations that carry Rush include: WLS-AM in Chicago, WJR-AM in Detroit, WMAL-FM in Washington, D.C., WBAP-AM in Dallas, and KSFO-AM in San Francisco.