Elaina Smith Named to Replace Kelly Ford on ‘Backstage Country’
Following the end of Westwood One's Nights with Elaina, Country radio personality Elaina Smith has joined Beasley Media Group and Key Networks' Backstage Country. She replaces Kelly Ford, who leaves to focus on her on-air and Music Director duties at WWWF.
Backlash Grows as St. Louis’ KDHX Ends Live Broadcasts
Amid listener backlash and lawsuits from former staff, St. Louis community radio station KDHX dismissed most of its volunteers and switched to pre-recorded programming on January 31 as supporters vow to continue protests and legal efforts.
After CCM Selloff, Salem Media Hands Over Music Networks
Following the religious broadcaster's divestment of its Contemporary Christian Music formatted stations at the end of 2024, Salem Media Group has announced the transfer of ownership of its music networks to Christian FM Media Group.
Telehealth Brand Makes Big Move in Weekly Radio Ad Rankings
One month into 2025, the churn among top advertisers on radio, including several big campaign rollouts and season-specific promotions, shows industry health and opportunities for new brands to make the most of AM/FM reach.
BetQL Network Gets BetMGM Rebrand in Audacy Partnership
Audacy has rebranded its BetQL Network as The BetMGM Network, expanding its partnership with sports betting and iGaming company BetMGM. BetMGM will remain the exclusive sportsbook partner, maintaining category exclusivity across all programming.
Wichita’s ‘Bob & Jeff Show’ To End After Two Decades on KFH
After nearly 24 years, father-and-son sports talk duo, Bob and Jeff Lutz, will end their show on Audacy Wichita’s KFH-AM on February 7. Their decision follows The Bob & Jeff Show being moved out of its early afternoon slot in favor of the syndicated Jim Rome Show.
Nik Carter Joins ‘Off the Record’ as Host, KLOS Becomes Flagship
After two decades, Uncle Joe Benson has left syndicated Classic Rock radio staple Off the Record. In his place, new KLOS afternoon talent Nik Carter takes over as host starting on February 8. Meruelo Media's KLOS will also serve as the show’s new flagship station.
Trade Tariffs and Inflation Expected to Impact 2025 Ad Spending
While some are bullish on the state of advertising spend during the second Trump administration, a new PQ Media forecast sees continued inflation concerns and potential trade tariffs leading to a worldwide decline in marketing budgets and revenue for radio.
Don’t Miss Early Bird Pricing for Hispanic Radio Conference 2025
Special early bird pricing for US Hispanic radio's premiere gathering is ending soon, as Radio Ink brings the 2025 Hispanic Radio Conference to Houston on June 11 and 12. Book your seats and hotel at the lowest rate before prices go up!
Blackburn Pushes FCC to Ban Free Artist Performances for Radio
Senator Marsha Blackburn is taking aim at radio again, now calling on the FCC to outlaw free artist performances tied to stations. In a letter to newly appointed FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, Blackburn says these concerts - often for charity - constitute payola.















