News

(By Cameron Coats) In a Wednesday op-ed for Variety, SoundExchange CEO Michael Huppe attacked “Big Radio” and the NAB Show in another attempt to sway public opinion for the American Music Fairness Act. It came as a reminder that now isn't the time for radio to take its eye off the ball.

To staff talent or not to staff talent? First came automation and voicetracking. Now artificial intelligence raises opportunities and concerns for broadcasters. Hear Mike McVay, iHeartMedia's PJ Gonzalez, consultant Bob Perry, and Grupo ACIR's Manuel Fernandez Tellez sound off on the issue.

Hutton Broadcasting has acquired nine radio stations in New Mexico and Colorado from American General Media, adding to its flagship stations in Santa Fe. Hutton Broadcasting will need FCC approval for the acquisition, and advertising inquiries will continue to be handled through existing staff.

Procter & Gamble have made radio their secret weapon to beat the competition at a much higher ROI. Now the "tremendous friend to the industry" will be recognized for their belief, commitment, and advocacy for radio ads at the RAB's Radio Mercury Awards on June 8 in New York City.

As technology advances and more people turn to digital platforms for their music and news needs, the future of AM radio is uncertain. With the battle for AM only getting hotter, Radio Ink wants to know your thoughts: do you think the AM band is worth saving?

On a recent episode of their radio show, Clay Travis and Buck Sexton vocalized their support for keeping AM radio in cars after an email from a listener on the issue. Sexton said listeners should, "focus in on the safety reasons to have AM and also the free speech reasons."

During their 2023 Q1 earnings call, Spotify CEO Daniel Ek hinted that the company may raise subscription prices in the US this year. Spotify increased prices last year in 46 different markets, and Ek noted that the streamer will consider raising prices in the US after negotiations with labels.

Shawn Lucero is joining Colorado Public Radio's Indie 102.3 (KVOQ) as a new weekend host and Promotions Coordinator. She will start her role on May 1. Lucero has extensive experience as a programmer and air-talent for rock and alternative stations.

VIC Radio, Ithaca College's AAA student-run online radio station, hosted its 36th annual 50 Hour Marathon to support the Advocacy Center of Tompkins County, NY. The marathon featured air talent Andy Tell, Clare Breakell, Aidan Charde, and Carly Vallet who stayed on the air for all 50 hours.

John "JP" Piccillo has been named as programming consultant and midday host for Radio One Buffalo's Big WECK. Piccillo joins the oldies station from Cumulus Classic Rocker WGRF 96.9 across town, where he spent nearly three decades. Piccillo starts his on-air work on May 1st.