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Like so many other facets of our world, COVID-19 has accelerated trends that were already in place.  Millions were working out at home on Peloton bikes (and similar systems) pre-pandemic.  But now, this fitness regiment has become a trend. It’s the same thing with tele-health, virtual meetings, and work from home. And in the world […]

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During COVID-19, time seems to be moving along at a very odd pace. Most of us are busy, and yet, also experiencing idle time. Even quiet time. Gary Vaynerchuk – better known as Gary Vee – has some advice about how to best use some of this pandemic time. And I took the liberty of adding some insights of my own. I hope you’ll find them a good use of your time.

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Only the pandemic could have created an entirely new line of clothing. But whether it’s a fashion statement or the latest tech toy, smart mask are just around the corner. And for radio, a tweak or two could make masks very useful.

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For decades, the radio industry has tested music the same way: using short hooks and simple popularity scales. But now, a new research study reveals there are other important factors behind music preference that go beyond a song having a good beat or being liked more older respondents versus younger ones. It’s about personality – the traits of the artist and the fan. And it’s a fascinating window into why music partisans think the way they do, and its implications on radio formats. programmers.

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When we read about music stars these days, it is more often than not a scandal, an absurdity, a 75th birthday, a visit to rehab, or sadly, an untimely death. True, many have supported any number of causes with free concerts, a timely tweet or two, or even a big check. And then there’s Dave […]

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Sports radio stations are especially thrilled the shortened MLB season kicks off tonight. There won’t be crowds, but there will be “crowd noise,” thanks to innovative video game technology. It’s a reminder of the paramount importance of audio to the entertainment experience. Play ball!

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Fascinating new music sales data indicate consumers are growing more likely to support artists and groups that are “local” – that is, that hail from their home countries. And a new initiative by Amazon represents the importance of emerging new music. This could have key implications for local radio, and stations trying to find a niche in their markets, especially during these challenging times.

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A love story trilogy about radio featuring three amazing pioneers who have never technically worked in the industry. Chances are, you’ve never heard of this trio, but their stories will remind you of why you love radio, whether you’re on the air, selling time, doing digital, or you’re on the outside looking in.

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Last week, it was SiriusXM in our cross-hairs. Today’s post looks at Spotify’s recent moves to bolster its portfolio and strengthen its in-home presence as usage patterns change before our very eyes. Their acquisition of “The Joe Rogan Experience” podcast is one of many moves the Swedish-based audio streaming company has made. What does that tell us about strategic planning in the midst of the pandemic and what message does it send to radio broadcasters about the changing state of play?

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As we know too well, good ratings or bad ratings are often in the eye of the beholder. And these days, when digital consumption of “radio” continues to rise in importance, it’s become increasingly difficult to assess precisely how listenership has changed since COVID-19 has invaded our lives. That’s been especially true with recent analyses of how public radio has performed since the outbreak. Even inside NPR, there are differing opinions. So, in today’s post, we attempt to straighten it all out.

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With each passing day, many of us are thinking about the many lost opportunities in 2020 due to the pandemic. Because of COVID, young people planning on a career in radio or in the early stages of their careers are missing out on much-needed education, mentoring, and guidance. Last weekend, a simple question was asked on Facebook that blew up into a lengthy discussion about radio fundamentals. That discussion continues in today’s blog, hopefully one that will get you thinking about that next generation of radio professionals.

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Since the beginnings of COVID, video chat on platforms like Zoom has taken off, connecting radio and its audiences. It’s all part of the livestreaming ecosystem that has experienced meteoric growth as consumers look for unique, interactive media content. The Twitch platform has become a mainstay in the gaming community, while a number of radio personalities are livestreaming on Twitch. One of the latest broadcast experiments may be the most unlikeliest: St. Louis Public Radio, a successful news/talk station. Here’s why they’re test driving Twitch, and what their initiative means to radio and real-time video streaming.

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As the many media and entertainment platforms jockey for position in a rapidly changing environment, competitors to broadcast radio are popping up left and right. But there’s one challenger that continues to aggressively go after everything AM/FM radio owns and stands for – satellite radio. Today’s blog post lists 10 key reasons why SiriusXM now poses the greatest threat to broadcast radio.

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Imagine getting a call from me this month with a novel idea: A radio station geared to seniors. I’m not just talking 35-64s, better known as the “demo that never was.” No, I’m talking about seniors – members of AARP, MediCare recipients, and those of Social Security age – in other words, consumers whose only drawback […]

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The “smart” trend in gadgets continues to expand, led by in-car dashboard technology. But the newly released 2020 J.D. Power Initial Quality Study for the automotive industry reveals these infotainment systems may be too smart by half, often leaving drivers confused and frustrated. That gives radio broadcasters a reprieve. For now.

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In yesterday’s post, we talked about how radio’s charitable spirit has been especially important amidst the coronovirus outbreak. Today, we follow up with a smart, strategic way of measuring radio’s good deeds by focusing on a new startup measuring the “Return On Generosity” of sports teams and their organizations. It has a direct application to local broadcast radio stations, and their ability to impact their hometown audiences, sponsors, and communities.

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Radio broadcasters have always shown their charitable side, but the changing audience demands in 2020 require rethinking and perhaps, reinvention. The ways in which radio stations pay it forward and align with local causes are changing, and today’s blog post shines the light on innovation in fundraising and community support.

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Another ripple effect of COVID-19 revolves around email. the good news: cconsumers have more time to open email communiques from companies they’ve signed up with. But the bad news is that many brands are failing to respond to customer emails on a timely basis – if at all. An email marketing firm, Netomi, conducted a fascinating “blind test” across more than 1,000 companies. Could your radio station or radio company pass this test?

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The pandemic has put pressure on brands whose business models have been impacted and disrupted. That’s been the case for both the worlds of sports and concerts, both of which have been benched since the onset of the virus. But now a novel partnership has formed, linking the world biggest sports brand with one of the most successful musical artists of all time. Strange? Maybe. But we’re living in COVID-19 times.

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Finally, the 4th of July holiday is upon us, a moment to catch our collective breath, and look ahead to a better second half of 2020. We’ve spent this week’s blog posts focused on initiatives and projects radio can tackle in the weeks and months ahead – all linked here. We wish you and your family a safe, relaxing, and peaceful weekend.

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