Radio flounders in digital doldrums

You could just about write this same article about the NZ Radio industry… although I disagree that IBOC is comparable to AM Stereo.

The FM sector does not want to lose its advantage over AM THE Australian commercial radio industry meets in Melbourne tomorrow for its annual gabfest and knees-up. The hottest topic of conversation is likely to be the latest on digital radio broadcasting. Again.

[More…]

Disney radio aims to cash in on pester power

On the one hand, good on them for having something targeted to kids. That’s more than we can say in New Zealand. On the other hand – you sinister bastards, Disney.

Walt Disney is abandoning the “no advertising” pledge that governs its UK television channel for a new radio station aimed at the nation’s children. The company will launch the digital station in a joint venture with Capital Radio tomorrow and plans to advertise to the under-16s through mobile phones and computers.

[More…]

Modern radio has lost its originality

It’s the same old sad story. Deregulation in a radio industry is great for giant radio companies, bad for individual radio stations, and for the listener. Under the guise of fostering competition, it encourages a mean streak. Sure, some good stuff has happened as a result, and a lifting of some nonsensical restrictions was required – but you don’t fix the rules by abolishing them and saying “let the strong survive, let the weak be crushed – and sod the general public”.

Two weeks ago, my favorite radio station changed its format. Star 104 FM was an ’80s station playing just about every song from that time period. On Saturday nights, it played re-mixes of classic ’80s hits. It was pleasant and amusing, but that’s all over now. What was Cumulus Broadcasting is now another part of Clear Channel Communications. It were bought out and forced reinvent itself as a top-40 station. That’s right, another one. That makes three in the Mobile listening area.

[More…]