エピソード

  • Corridos Country and Afrobeats Are Redefining the Streaming Mainstream (ep.355)
    2024/11/01
    Streaming Giants Shake Up the Mainstream: Corridos, Afrobeats, and More Take Center Stage. The music industry is undergoing a seismic shift as alternative genres, once relegated to the fringes, are exploding onto the mainstream through the power of streaming.

    Corridos, Afrobeats, K-Pop solo artists, and even certain corners of country music are finding massive audiences online, often outpacing traditional radio play.
    This phenomenon highlights a growing disconnect between the established gatekeepers of the music industry and the tastes of a digitally connected generation. While radio continues to favor established formulas, streaming platforms like Spotify and YouTube Music have become fertile ground for musical discovery, allowing artists to connect directly with fans and build global followings organically.
    "Streaming has democratized music discovery," says music industry analyst Sarah Chen. "It's empowering listeners to explore beyond the limitations of radio and algorithms, and it's allowing artists from diverse backgrounds to reach audiences they never could have before."
    One striking example is the rise of corridos tumbados, a subgenre of regional Mexican music blending traditional corridos with trap and hip-hop influences. Artists like Peso Pluma, Natanael Cano, and Eslabon Armado are racking up billions of streams, with hits like "Ella Baila Sola" and "AMG" dominating global charts. Yet, their presence on mainstream radio remains limited.
    Similarly, Afrobeats continues its global ascent, with Nigerian superstars like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido leading the charge. Their infectious rhythms and vibrant melodies have captivated audiences worldwide, but radio play in many Western markets still lags behind their streaming dominance.
    Even within the realm of country music, artists like Zach Bryan and Tyler Childers are challenging the genre's conventions, drawing inspiration from folk, bluegrass, and indie rock. Their raw, authentic sound has resonated deeply with fans, propelling them to streaming stardom even as they receive limited airplay on mainstream country radio.
    K-Pop solo artists are also making waves, with stars like Lisa of BLACKPINK and IU achieving massive global success. Their music videos routinely garner hundreds of millions of views on YouTube, and their songs dominate digital charts.
    This shift towards streaming-driven success has significant implications for the music industry. Record labels are increasingly looking to streaming data to identify emerging talent, and artists are finding new ways to connect with fans directly through social media and online platforms.
    While radio remains a relevant force, its influence is waning in the face of the streaming revolution. As listeners continue to embrace the freedom and diversity of online music discovery, the mainstream is becoming increasingly reflective of the global tapestry of sound.

    Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.com
    Support KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of Podcasts
    Follow KOP on Twitter or Facebook @kingofpodcasts
    Listen to KOP’s other programs, Depraved and Debaucherous, Podcasters Row and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-broadcasters-podcast--3684131/support.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    42 分
  • News Publishers Congregate and Challenge AI for Copyright (ep.354)
    2024/10/25
    Publishers confront the AI era meanwhile an international protest of unlicensed use of copyrighted content by AI systems has gathered more than 13,500 signatories.

    The publishing world is grappling with the rise of AI, facing a dual challenge: how to leverage AI's potential while protecting their copyrighted content. Here's a breakdown of the latest developments:
    Publishers Confront the AI Era:
    * Licensing Deals: Some publishers are striking deals with AI companies like OpenAI to license their content for use in training AI models. This offers a potential revenue stream and ensures some control over how their content is used. However, these deals are not universally available, leaving smaller publishers at a disadvantage.
    * Anti-crawler Measures: Publishers are employing anti-crawler measures to prevent AI companies from scraping their websites for free content. This is a defensive strategy aimed at forcing AI companies to the negotiating table.
    * Traffic Referrals: AI platforms like Google's SearchGPT and Perplexity are starting to drive traffic back to publisher websites, offering a potential upside to content licensing. However, the extent and sustainability of this referral traffic remain unclear.
    * Internal AI Use: Publishers are exploring ways to use AI internally to improve efficiency and personalize content recommendations for readers.
    International Protest Against Unlicensed Use of Copyrighted Content:
    * A petition signed by over 13,500 authors, publishers, and industry professionals highlights the growing concern over AI's use of copyrighted material without permission or compensation.
    * The petition calls for AI companies to respect copyright laws and for policymakers to create clear guidelines for AI's use of copyrighted content.
    Key Concerns for Publishers:
    * Copyright Infringement: The unauthorized use of copyrighted material to train AI models is a major concern, raising questions about fair use and compensation.
    * Competition from AI-Generated Content: Publishers worry that AI-generated content could flood the market, devaluing human-created works and potentially putting authors out of jobs.
    * Transparency and Control: Publishers seek greater transparency about how AI companies use their content and want more control over its use.
    Looking Ahead:
    The tension between publishers and AI companies is likely to continue as both sides navigate this evolving landscape. The outcome will depend on factors such as legal developments, technological advancements, and the willingness of both sides to negotiate fair and sustainable solutions.
    It's important to stay informed about these developments as they unfold. Here are some resources to help you stay up-to-date:
    * Digiday: Media Briefing: Publishers confront the AI era during the Digiday Publishing Summit
    * Publishers Weekly: Confronting Publishing's AI Fears
    * Literary Hub: Publishers are already using way too much AI.
    By staying informed, publishers and content creators can better advocate for their interests and work towards a future where AI and publishing can coexist and thrive.

    Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.com
    Support KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of Podcasts
    Follow KOP on Twitter or Facebook @kingofpodcasts
    Listen to KOP’s other programs, Depraved and Debaucherous, Podcasters Row and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast



    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-broadcasters-podcast--3684131/support.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    53 分
  • Radio's New Challenges: Job Cuts, Audience Shifts, and Evolving Technology (ep.353)
    2024/10/18
    As the radio landscape continues to shift, managers in the industry face a range of challenges that keep them up at night. A combination of workforce reductions, changes in audience measurement methods, and rapid technological advancements are reshaping how radio stations operate, connect with listeners, and compete in the digital age.

    ### Job Cuts and Operational Consolidation

    The recent announcement of more job cuts at BBC radio stations is indicative of the broader trend of consolidation across the radio industry. BBC’s decision to merge further bulletins and programs aims to streamline operations and reduce costs amidst financial pressures. However, these moves come at the expense of jobs, adding to the uncertainty for staff and raising concerns about the ability to maintain the diversity and quality of local programming .

    Radio executives are left balancing financial sustainability with the need to retain the unique connection their stations have with local audiences. The impact of these cuts is felt deeply within the industry, reflecting a global trend where radio stations face the tough choice of prioritizing profitability over regional content that distinguishes them from digital competitors.

    ### Audience Measurement Changes and Listening Patterns

    The adjustments in Nielsen’s Average Quarter-Hour (AQH) plan have also stirred concerns among radio managers. With the new plan requiring less listening time for ratings consideration, the competition for listener attention is fiercer than ever. This shift could make tune-out issues more prominent, as radio stations need to ensure engaging content throughout every second of a broadcast to keep listeners from switching channels .

    Managers are particularly worried about this potential tune-out, as it could directly impact their stations' ratings and revenue. As listeners become more selective in how they spend their time with audio content, maintaining high engagement has become a top priority for stations looking to hold their audience base. The need to adapt programming to ensure sustained listener interest is becoming an essential strategy to weather this shift.

    ### The Role of Evolving Technology

    At the same time, technological advancements continue to redefine the audio landscape. The podcasting industry, often considered a competitor to traditional radio, is not only evolving but is also benefiting from the advancements in the underlying technology that powers it . The integration of AI and more sophisticated data analytics allows podcast platforms to better understand audience behavior, providing deeper insights into content preferences and engagement patterns.

    For radio stations, this tech evolution is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it offers the opportunity to enhance digital offerings and better understand listeners through improved data analytics. On the other, it creates pressure to innovate quickly or risk losing listeners to more tech-savvy digital platforms. Managers must decide how to integrate these technological advances into their operations while remaining true to the core identity of radio as a medium.

    ### Navigating an Uncertain Future

    The combination of workforce reductions, changes in audience measurement, and evolving technology presents a daunting landscape for radio's top managers. These challenges are compounded by the need to maintain a unique local connection while adapting to a more competitive audio environment. As they navigate these turbulent waters, radio leaders are increasingly focused on striking a balance between embracing innovation and preserving the essence of what has made radio a trusted medium for generations.

    With listeners' habits changing and financial pressures mounting, the road ahead for the radio industry remains uncertain. Yet, for those willing to adapt and innovate, the evolving landscape also offers opportunities to redefine what radio can be in the digital age.

    Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.com
    Support KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of Podcasts
    Follow KOP on Twitter or Facebook @kingofpodcasts
    Listen to KOP’s other programs, Depraved and Debaucherous, Podcasters Row and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast



    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-broadcasters-podcast--3684131/support.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    56 分
  • Hollywood's Risky Bet: Pushing Influencers Beyond Their Digital Comfort Zone (ep.352)
    2024/10/11
    Over the past decade, the entertainment industry has undergone a seismic shift. The rise of streaming platforms, social media, AI, and other technological advancements has disrupted the traditional studio and network system that once dominated Hollywood. The days of massive billboards on busy highways being the primary method of promoting the latest blockbuster are gone. In today’s landscape, digital content—especially social media—has become the driving force behind movie and TV series promotions, ensuring that studios can break through the clutter and connect with audiences.

    The Hollywood Reporter’s recent articles on influencers, published on October 10th, 2024, highlight this transformation in great detail. According to the report, the way we learn about new films, TV shows, and even games has fundamentally changed. Most of today's audiences are introduced to new entertainment not through traditional advertisements, but through social media posts, YouTube videos, TikToks, and collaborations between influencers and major Hollywood studios.

    Influencers and content creators have become indispensable partners for studios, platforms, and networks looking to reach new audiences in innovative and authentic ways. Their ability to create viral moments and engage with fans directly has made them critical players in shaping the success of entertainment projects. The Hollywood Reporter emphasizes that without digital content—whether it’s a behind-the-scenes Instagram story or a viral TikTok challenge—breaking into the cultural zeitgeist is nearly impossible.

    Dedicated companies have emerged to facilitate these influencer collaborations, working closely with studios to craft campaigns that resonate with fans on a personal level. These firms understand the nuances of digital marketing and recognize the power of influencers to not only promote a project but to make it part of the broader conversation.

    As the Hollywood Reporter underscores, traditional promotional methods alone are no longer enough to succeed in the entertainment world. The integration of social media, AI, and influencers has not only changed how entertainment is marketed but has also permanently altered how audiences consume it. Welcome to the new era of Hollywood, where digital reigns supreme.

    Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.com
    Support KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of Podcasts
    Follow KOP on Twitter or Facebook @kingofpodcasts
    Listen to KOP’s other programs, Depraved and Debaucherous, Podcasters Row and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast



    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-broadcasters-podcast--3684131/support.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    57 分
  • Audacy Fails Forward and Podcasting’s Promise and Potential (ep.351)
    2024/10/04
    The FCC has approved the restructuring of Audacy, allowing the company to exit Chapter 11 bankruptcy. This decision enables Audacy to reorganize approximately $1.6 billion of existing debt.

    The approval was granted with a 3-2 vote, with support falling along party lines.The restructuring plan involves former debt holders receiving new common stock in the reorganized company. It also includes a temporary waiver permitting Audacy to operate before fully addressing potential foreign ownership concerns.
    Some controversy surrounded the approval due to a stake in the broadcaster linked to George Soros.

    Despite this, the FCC concluded that the restructuring serves the public interest by ensuring the continued operation of Audacy's vital local broadcasting services.

    I also play back my recent Podcasters Row interview with journalist T.J. Raphael to discuss the current state of journalism, the evolution of podcasting, and the impact of AI on the industry.

    T. J. Raphael is a seasoned enterprise reporter, investigative journalist, editor, producer, and on-air host with 15 years of experience at national media outlets. She’s created multiple chart-topping podcasts, and has worn every hat possible in the pursuit of high-quality, impactful journalism.

    Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.com
    Support KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of Podcasts
    Follow KOP on Twitter or Facebook @kingofpodcasts
    Listen to KOP’s other programs, Depraved and Debaucherous, Podcasters Row and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast



    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-broadcasters-podcast--3684131/support.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    1 時間 4 分
  • The Slow Fade of Radio: A Deep Dive into the Streaming Era's Impact (ep.350)
    2024/09/27
    In a world once ruled by the airwaves, the sound of radio's golden age has become a distant echo. Streaming services and social media's meteoric rise have profoundly reshaped the audio landscape, leaving traditional radio scrambling to stay afloat. This seismic shift has sent shockwaves through the industry, triggering bankruptcies, downsizing, and a ripple effect that extends to the very heart of the music industry.The Numbers Tell the Tale* Listenership: A 2023 study by Edison Research revealed a stark decline in traditional radio listening, with 82% of Americans aged 12+ tuning in weekly, down from 92% in 2010.* Revenue: Radio advertising revenue, once the industry's lifeblood, has plateaued, while streaming platforms have witnessed double-digit growth year over year.* Bankruptcies and Downsizing: Major radio conglomerates like iHeartMedia (formerly Clear Channel Communications), Audacy (formerly Entercom), Cumulus Media, and even satellite radio giant SiriusXM have faced financial turmoil. These companies have navigated bankruptcies, massive debt loads, and layoffs, leaving thousands of employees jobless.The Corporate Radio ConundrumThe downfall of corporate radio giants can be attributed to several factors:* Overleveraged Acquisitions: Aggressive acquisition sprees during the industry's boom years saddled these companies with insurmountable debt, hindering their ability to adapt to the changing landscape.* Mismanagement: Critics argue that short-sighted management decisions, prioritizing cost-cutting over innovation, further exacerbated the industry's woes.* Homogenization of Content: A reliance on syndicated programming and formulaic playlists eroded radio's local flavor and appeal, driving listeners to more personalized streaming options.The Music Industry's Collateral DamageThe decline of radio has had far-reaching implications for the music industry:* Billboard Charts: Radio airplay, once the primary metric for measuring a song's popularity, has been dethroned by streaming data. This shift has disrupted the established order, opening the door for new artists to gain recognition outside the traditional radio ecosystem.* Artist Exposure: The decline of radio has made it increasingly challenging for emerging artists to break into the mainstream, relying heavily on social media and streaming platforms to reach a wider audience.A New Era of AudioWhile the decline of radio has been painful for many, it also marks the dawn of a new era of audio consumption. Streaming services offer listeners unprecedented control over their listening experience, while social media fosters direct connections between artists and fans.The future of radio remains uncertain. Some industry experts predict a resurgence of local, community-driven radio stations that can capitalize on their unique appeal and cater to niche audiences. However, the road ahead will be challenging, and radio must evolve to compete in the ever-evolving audio landscape.ConclusionThe decline of radio is a cautionary tale of an industry that failed to adapt to the digital age. As streaming services and social media continue to redefine how we consume audio, traditional radio faces an existential crisis. The future will belong to those who can embrace innovation and offer listeners a compelling reason to tune in. The airwaves may be quieter, but the sound of change is undeniable.Major Radio Owners in the USA: Financial Summary1. iHeartMedia* Debt: As of Q2 2024, iHeartMedia had approximately $5.38 billion in total debt.* Ownership: Primarily owned by institutional investors and investment funds. Some significant shareholders include:* BlackRock* Vanguard Group* State Street Corporation* Bankruptcies: iHeartMedia (formerly Clear Channel Communications) filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2018 and emerged in 2019 with a significantly reduced debt load.* Private Equity:* Bain Capital and THL Partners were major private equity firms involved in the 2008 leveraged buyout of Clear Channel Communications. These firms still retain a stake in iHeartMedia.* Public Offering: iHeartMedia went public again in 2019 under the ticker symbol "IHRT."2. Audacy (formerly Entercom)* Debt: As of Q2 2024, Audacy had approximately $1.9 billion in total debt.* Ownership: Primarily owned by institutional investors and investment funds.* Bankruptcies: Audacy has not filed for bankruptcy.* Private Equity: None.* Public Offering: Audacy is a publicly traded company under the ticker symbol "AUD."3. Cumulus Media* Debt: As of Q2 2024, Cumulus Media had approximately $1.1 billion in total debt.* Ownership: Cumulus Media emerged from bankruptcy in 2018 and is now majority-owned by its creditors.* Bankruptcies: Cumulus Media filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2017 and emerged in 2018.* Private Equity: None.* Public Offering: None.4. Townsquare Media* Debt: As of Q2 2024, Townsquare Media had approximately $585 million in total debt.* Ownership: Oaktree Capital Management, a private ...
    続きを読む 一部表示
    56 分
  • California’s Collaborative AI Publisher Compromise With Google (ep.349)
    2024/09/20
    California Strikes $175M Deal with Google to Support Local Journalism. The bills to tax or force arbitration failed, so a compromise was made. California lawmakers have reached an agreement with Google to fund local journalism, shifting away from earlier proposals that would have forced tech giants like Google and Meta to directly pay news outlets for using their content. Instead, the agreement establishes a $175 million fund over five years to support local media in the state.This deal involves Google contributing $55 million to a fund managed by UC Berkeley, the state providing $70 million, and an additional $50 million through Google's existing grants. Part of this initiative includes creating an artificial intelligence (AI) program to aid local newsrooms. The AI component, however, has sparked concerns among some journalists, who fear it could lead to further job losses in the media industry.Critics, such as the Media Guild of the West, have expressed disappointment with the deal, arguing that it allows Google to maintain its monopoly over the news industry without addressing the systemic challenges facing local journalism. They claim the funding is insufficient compared to similar laws in countries like Canada and Australia, which have imposed stronger regulations on tech companies to pay news publishers directly.While the agreement is seen by some as a positive step toward supporting struggling newsrooms, others view it as a concession to Big Tech, which continues to wield significant power in the digital landscape. The AI element of the deal, in particular, has been met with skepticism, as it may further entrench Google's influence over the media sector in California.This compromise marks a shift in how California is handling the tech-news relationship, providing immediate financial relief to news outlets but leaving larger questions about the future of independent journalism unanswered.California's new arrangement with Google, while groundbreaking, is not actually a bill. It's a public-private partnership aimed at supporting local journalism and AI research in the state. Here are the key details:* **Funding:*** The partnership will provide over $300 million over five years.* Roughly $110 million will come from Google and $70 million from the state budget to boost journalism jobs.* Google will also kick in $70 million to fund the AI research program.* **Focus areas:*** The money will be used for two main purposes:* **News Transformation Fund:** This fund, managed by UC Berkeley's Graduate School of Journalism, will support local news organizations (excluding broadcasters) in California.* **AI Innovation Accelerator:** This program will focus on developing AI tools to help solve real-world problems. The specifics of this program are still being finalized.* **Reactions:*** The agreement has received mixed reactions.* Supporters see it as a crucial step in addressing the decline of local journalism and promoting innovation.* Critics argue that it doesn't go far enough and that Google is getting off too easy compared to what could have been achieved through legislation. Some journalists also fear that the focus on AI could lead to job losses in the industry.**Key points to note:*** The agreement is the first of its kind in the U.S.* It effectively ends a year-long fight between tech giants and lawmakers over a proposed "link tax" that would have required companies like Google to pay publishers for linking to their content.* The partnership highlights the growing intersection of journalism and AI, with both potential benefits and concerns for the future of the industry.The path leading to the current California-Google arrangement was not a straight one, and involved a complex interplay of factors and players. Here's a brief overview:The Decline of Local Journalism: The backdrop is the ongoing crisis in local journalism, with newspapers struggling to stay afloat in the digital age. This led to calls for government intervention to support the industry.Proposed "Link Tax" (AB 886): Assembly Bill 886, also known as the California Journalism Preservation Act, was introduced in early 2023. It proposed a "link tax" requiring tech companies like Google and Meta (Facebook) to pay publishers for linking to their content.Intense Lobbying and Opposition: The bill faced fierce opposition from tech giants, who argued that it would harm the internet and stifle innovation. Intense lobbying ensued from both sides, with news publishers and tech companies spending millions to sway lawmakers.Stalemate and Compromise: Despite numerous hearings and revisions, the bill remained stalled in the legislature. Recognizing the need for a solution, Governor Newsom stepped in to facilitate negotiations between the two sides.The Partnership Agreement: After months of talks, the agreement was reached in August 2024. It effectively ended the fight over the link tax, opting instead for a public-private partnership to support ...
    続きを読む 一部表示
    51 分
  • Mainstream Meltdown: MTV VMAs and Corporate Radio's Rapid Relevance Recession (ep.348)
    2024/09/13
    The 2024 MTV VMAs, once a beacon of music's cutting edge, flickered dimly, a stark contrast to its former glory. Its corporate radio counterparts mirrored this decline, their playlists stagnant, their influence waning.

    The VMAs and radio stations clung to a familiar formula, spotlighting corporate darlings like Taylor Swift, Post Malone, and Katy Perry. These established acts, safe bets for ratings and airplay, dominated the airwaves and award shows.

    But the American public, their tastes shaped by TikTok trends and Spotify algorithms, turned away from these legacy institutions. The VMAs' desperate attempts at relevance - flashy sets, viral moments - felt hollow, a performance for an audience that had long moved on.

    Social media and streaming platforms, with their democratized access and personalized content, filled the void. Viral acts, born from online communities and fueled by organic engagement, captured the cultural zeitgeist, their music resonating with a generation hungry for authenticity.

    The VMAs and corporate radio, once gatekeepers of success, became relics of a bygone era. Their price? The trust of a generation, their currency - relevance - devalued in a new, digital age.

    * The VMAs' continued focus on established stars:
    * Many recaps of the 2024 VMAs highlighted the dominance of artists like Taylor Swift, who won multiple awards including Video of the Year, further solidifying her position as a mainstream favorite.
    * Articles also noted the presence of other established acts like Katy Perry and Post Malone, showcasing the award show's inclination towards familiar faces.
    * The influence of social media and streaming platforms:
    * While not directly about the VMAs, several discussions have centered around the growing power of platforms like TikTok in shaping music trends and launching new artists into the spotlight.
    * The increasing popularity of streaming services and their personalized algorithms has also been acknowledged as a major factor in how people discover and consume music.
    * The desire for authenticity and relatability:
    * There's a general consensus that audiences, especially younger generations, crave authenticity and relatability from their favorite artists.
    * This desire is often fulfilled by viral acts and independent artists who connect with their audiences through social media and create music that reflects their lived experiences.
    These points suggest a growing disconnect between legacy institutions like the VMAs and the evolving tastes of the music-consuming public. While the VMAs haven't completely lost their relevance, their continued focus on established stars and traditional formats may be alienating them from a significant portion of the audience who crave fresh voices and new experiences.
    It's important to note that this is an ongoing conversation, and the full impact of these trends on the future of the VMAs and corporate radio remains to be seen.

    Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.com
    Support KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of Podcasts
    Follow KOP on Twitter or Facebook @kingofpodcasts
    Listen to KOP’s other programs, Depraved and Debaucherous, Podcasters Row and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-broadcasters-podcast--3684131/support.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    48 分