Posts in "Hot Topics"

Dear Diary Down Under

May 28, 2026

As the Ratings Experts, we tend to nerd out on the process of gathering radio ratings. This week in James Cridland’s excellent newsletter he revealed how the diary process works in Australia.

Image by Moerschy from Pixabay

According to his writings, the paper diary only represents about 20% of all participants. Compare this to Nielsen’s mSurvey which, at least initially, will only represent about 10% of the sample.

The folks at GFK, who conduct the ratings, were nice enough to produce a “how to” video for potential diary keepers. The link to the video is below and I encourage you to invest six-plus minutes in watching it. That is, if you’re a ratings/research geek like me.

What you will see is an incredibly complicated process that involves stickers. I would say it’s more work than the average person would undertake but then my attention span is short.

The video also reveals that by participating in this process you’ll be entered into a drawing to win one thousand Australian dollars. Sounds as enticing as a text to win a national contest, no?

Their diary “week” is eight days long (perhaps an homage to a certain British group?). It runs from Friday through the following Saturday. Oh, and the diary is about 26 pages long.

Listening credit is granted to a station as long as the listener spends at least eight minutes with the station inside a given quarter hour. That means only one station can get credit for a given quarter hour. I wonder how much listening gets left on the cutting room floor.

GFK asks participants for a lot of information. Besides the usual quarter hour listening, they ask for the usual locations: home, car, work, or elsewhere. They ask how you are listening: AM/FM radio, DAB+, Mobile, PC/Tablet, Smart speaker, or other. Lastly, they ask if you are listening via headphones. This is a lot of work for a diary keeper but if this is consistent with their online version and we assume the respondent “ticks” the boxes, there is a lot of valuable information for broadcasters.

Finally, there is a detailed lifestyle questionnaire that covers a variety topics like podcast listening, where you plan to spend your next holiday, and what type of takeaway food you purchased.

The data set is huge, as it encompasses 50,000 annual participants in five markets. That means about 10,000 people are filling out paper diaries a year.

But wait, there’s more. They also record streaming listening directly from streaming logs. Plus, they have a system of “watches,” which I assume are a version of PPM, that are not currently included in the data.

Could/should some of this be incorporated into Nielsen’s version of the diary? It’s certainly worthy of a discussion.

You can watch the video here and be amazed that the demonstrator is filling it out with a Sharpie: https://james.cridland.net/uploads/radio-diary-demo-video.mp4

You can read the entire article here (and I suggest you subscribe): https://james.cridland.net/blog/2026/inside-an-aussie-radio-diary/

Radio Ratings Roundup, April 2026, Part IV

May 22, 2026

Filed Under: Hot Topics

Welcome back to our final installment of our monthly series – how the ratings turn. We bid a fond farewell to the APRIL book. We had some careless, fancy free good times that we will cherish for about another 28 days. Then all will be forgotten, if not forgiven.

This survey ran from APRIL 2^nd through APRIL 29^th, the only time this year that the two calendars will align. It featured the EASTER holiday, the reassuring sound on “Play ball!” and, of course, rising gas prices. Let’s dive in, shall we?

TAMPA-ST. PETERSBURG-CLEARWATER: When Doves Fly

COX MEDIA Soft AC WDUV (105.5 THE DOVE) continued to dominate the competition as it finished atop the 6+ leaderboard for the third book in a row (9.8-9.7). RADIO TRAINING NETWORK Contemporary Christian WCIE (THE JOY FM) was back at #2 (7.0-7.2), while COX MEDIA Classic Hits WXGL (107.3 THE EAGLE) repeated at #3 (6.5-6.0). Coming in at #4 once again was BEASLEY Classic Hits WRBQ (Q105) (5.9-5.8). COX MEDIA AC WWRM (MAGIC 94.9) ended a three-book slide as it stepped up to #5 (5.1-5.7). iHEARTMEDIA Active Rock WXTB (98 ROCK) fell from #5 to #10 with its smallest share since SEPTEMBER (5.7-3.9). It was tied with COX MEDIA N/T WHPT (102.5 THE BONE), which moved up a spot (3.5-3.9). WDUV was still in cume control with a 0.4% decline (655,100-652,200). The market was down 1.3%.

A flat WDUV was #1 25-54 for the third book in a row. WRBQ stepped up to #2 with a slight increase but was a share and a half off the pace. WWRM rose from #5 to #3 as it stopped a four-book slide. iHEARTMEDIA AC WMTX (MIX 100.7) leapt from #7 to #4 as it rebounded from a down book. WCIE remained at #5 with a slight increase, while WXTB dropped from #2 to #7 with its lowest score since NOVEMBER.

For the second book in a row WDUV was #1 and in double figures 18-34. WWRM went from #5 to #2 with its highest Frosty-free share in over a year. Tied for third place was WCIE, which was up from #4, and iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR WFLZ (93.3 FLZ), which dipped from #2 with its least productive outing since DECEMBER. COX MEDIA Urban AC WTBV (101.5 THE VIBE) rose from #8 to #5 with its highest mark since SEPTEMBER. WRBQ stepped down to #6, while WXTB slid from #3 into a five-way tie at #7.

Despite a down book WDUV led the 18-49 pack for the third book in a row. WWRM went from #5 to #2 and narrowed the gap between the two stations to less than a share. WCIE was up to #3 with a slight increase, while WMTX advanced two spaces to #4 as it regained most of last month’s lost share. WFLZ slipped from #3 to #5, while WXTB went from #2 into a tie at #6 with WRBQ.

DENVER-BOULDER: Mountain High

For the third book in a row AUDACY Classic Rock KQMT (99.5 THE MOUNTAIN) stood tall over the 6+ landscape (7.1-6.8). BONNEVILLE AC KOSI (KOSI 101.1) was back at #2 but with its smallest share since MAY (7.0-6.5). iHEARTMEDIA AAA KBCO landed its largest share in over a year as it rose from a tie at #6 to #3 (4.2-5.5). iHEARTMEDIA Alternative KTCL (CHANNEL 93.3) also escaped the #6 pod as it landed at #4 with its best book since JUNE (4.2-5.2). It was paired with the stationary AUDACY Modern AC KALC (ALICE 105.9), which ended a two-book slide (4.9-5.2). KSE MEDIA VENTURES Classic Hits KXKL (KOOL 105) slipped to #6 (5.2-5.1), while BONNEVILLE Country KYGO moved down to #7 (4.8-5.0). KOSI still had the most cume despite a 2.0% decrease (506,600-496,400). The market grew by 0.7%.

KTCL was #1 25-54 for the fourth straight survey. It held a half share lead over KALC, which stepped up to #2 with a small share gain. KQMT dipped to #3 while KSE MEDIA VENTURES Sports KKSE (ALTITUDE SPORTS RADIO 92.5FM) was up two slots to #4 with its best showing in over a year. KOSI slipped to #5 and was tied with the motionless KXKL, which did post its best number in over a year.

KTCL vaulted from #8 to #1 18-34, more than doubling its previous number and landing in double-digit territory. KXKL moved up to #2, again with its best book in over a year, but trailed the leader by nearly three shares. KYGO moved from #5 to #3 with a strong increase, while ENTRAVISION Mexican Regional KXPK (LA TRICOLOR 96.5) slid from #1 to #4 as it gave back all of last month’s huge increase, plus a bit extra. Four stations were hanging out at #5. KOSI dropped from #2 with its lowest total in over a year, while COLORADO PUBLIC RADIO N/T KCFR remained in place as it halted a strong three-book surge. iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR KDHT (HITS 95.7) and KALC advanced together from a tie at #9. AUDACY Rhythmic CHR KQKS (KS 107.5) fell from #3 to #9, while KQMT dropped from #5 to #12. Both stations posted their lowest scores in over a year.

Last month KTCL fell from #1 to #7 18-49. The station recovered nicely this time as it moved back up to the top spot. KXKL rose from #5 to #2 with its third straight up book. KALC repeated at #3 and was paired with KKSE, which moved up a spot with its best performance in over a year. KQKS fell from #1 to #5, KOSI dropped from #2 to #6, and KXPK slipped from #5 to #7. All three stations had down books.

SAN DIEGO: The Sun Also Rises

It’s not often we can slip a HEMMINGWAY reference into the Roundup. AUDACY Classic Hits KXSN (SUNNY 98.1) moved back to #1 6+ just by showing up (7.4-7.4). SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY N/T KPBS repeated at #2 (7.6-7.3), while LOCAL MEDIA Rhythmic AC XHRM (MAGIC 92.5) went from first to third as it surrendered all of last month’s large share increase (7.9-6.7). AUDACY AC KYXY remained at #4 (6.0-6.0), and baseball was very, very good for AUDACY Sports KWFN (97.3 THE FAN) as it advanced from #12 to #5 with its best outing since OCTOBER (3.2-5.3). KXSN continued as the cume champ with a 3.4% increase (591,200-611,100). The market was up 1.3%.

KXSN bounced back from a down book to move back up to #1 25-54. KWFN vaulted from #9 to #2 with its highest score since AUGUST. XHRM went from first to third again as it returned most of last month’s increase. iHEARTMEDIA Active Rock KIOZ (ROCK 105.3) repeated at #4 with a slight increase, while KYXY stepped up to #5 with its best Frosty-free share in over a year. iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR KHTS (CHANNEL 93.3) slid three places to #8, while LOCAL MEDIA Alternative XTRA (91X) fell from #3 to #9.

KXSN and KYXY were back at #1 and #2, respectively 18-34 and remained a half share apart. XTRA inched up to #3 despite a down book, while two stations landed together at #4. iHEARTMEDIA Hot AC KMYI (STAR 94.1) moved up a spot while KWFN vaulted from #9 with its largest share since SEPTEMBER. XHRM fell from #2 to #6 as it ended a strong three-book surge. iHEARTMEDIA Rhythmic CHR KSSX (JAM’N 95.7) dropped from #5 to #10 and was partnered with AUDACY Alternative KBZT (ALT 94.9) and GROUPO IMAGEN Spanish Hot AC XLTN (RADIO LATINA 104.5FM).

Despite surrendering most of last month’s huge share increase, XHRM held steady atop the 18-49 leaderboard. KXSN was back at #2 with two stations nipping at its heels at #3. KIOZ held steady with a slight increase, while KYXY moved up from #6 as it rebounded from a down book. KWFN rose from #10 to #5. KHTS and XTRA went from a tie at #4 to #8 and #9, respectively.

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CHARLOTTE-GASTONIA-ROCK HILL: Pure Chaos

Book after book we see surprises, including unusual rises and falls, but we rarely see the type of upheaval as occurred in this survey. Two stations rose up to claim the 6+ crown. iHEARTMEDIA Adult Hits WLKO (102.9 THE LAKE) stepped up from #2 (7.9-6.5), while UNIVERSITY RADIO FOUNDATION N/T WFAE advanced from #4 (6.2-6.5). iHEARTMEDIA Country WKKT (96.9 THE KAT) clawed its way up to #3 with its highest mark in over a year (6.0-6.4), while two stations moved up to #4, each posting their best number in over a year. BEASLEY Pop CHR WNKS (KISS 95.1) was up from #6 (4.7-5.7), while iHEARTMEDIA Classic Rock WRFX (99.7 THE FOX) rose from #9 (4.2-5.7). BEASLEY Urban Contemporary WPEG (POWER 98) slipped from #3 to #6 as it ended a strong five-book surge (7.4-5.4). BEASLEY Classic Hits WKQC (K104.7) snapped a two-book winning string as it dropped from #1 to #7 with its smallest share in over a year (8.1-5.3). WLKO added 13.0% to its #1 cume total (472,100-533,600). The market was down 0.6%.

iHEARTMEDIA Alternative WEND (106.5 THE END) leapt from #4 to #1 25-54 with its best outing in over a year. This ended WPEG’s two-book winning string, and six-book surge, as it dipped to #2. WLKO stepped down to #3 with a slight decrease. It was paired with URBAN ONE Urban Oldies WOSF (105.3 RnB), which advanced from #7 as it bounced back from a down book. WRFX vaulted from #12 to #5 with its highest score since AUGUST. It was tied with WKKT, which moved down a spot with a slight increase. WKQC dropped from #3 to #10.

WNKS rose from #3 to #1 18-34, while WRFX advanced from #5 to #2. Both stations landed in double figures. WPEG went from first to third as its double-digit streak ended at two. WLKO slipped to #4 as it gave back most of last month’s massive increase. It was paired with WOSF, which moved up from #9 as it regained most of last month’s massive share decrease. WKQC slipped to #6, while iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR WHQC (HITS 96.1) fell from #5 to #11 with its least productive outing since JUNE.

WNKS stepped up to #1 18-49 and was dangerously close to hitting double digits. WRFX vaulted from #8 to #2. Just two books ago it was languishing at #11. WPEG went from first to third, again, thus ending a five-book surge. WFAE repeated at #4 with a slight increase and was joined there by WEND, which moved up from #6. WHQC slipped from #4 to #7, while WLKO fell from #3 to #8. It was tied with WKQC and BEASLEY Urban AC WBAV (V 101.9).

NASSAU-SUFFOLK (LONG ISLAND): This Just In…

…you can probably hear the teletype machine in the background. AUDACY News WINS (1010 WINS) was #1 6+ for the fourth straight survey (8.9-8.8). iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR WHTZ (Z100) remained at #2 (6.9-6.2), while AUDACY Hot AC WNEW (NEW 102.7) leapt from #8 to #3 with its best book in over a year (3.8-5.5). AUDACY Sports WFAN (SPORTS RADIO 101.9FM/66AM) was back at #4 (5.6-5.4), while CONNOISSEUR Hot AC WALK (WALK FM) held steady at #5 (5.3-5.1). RED APPLE MEDIA N/T WABC-A fell from #3 to #8 with its lowest mark in over a year (6.1-4.4). WINS remained in cume control with a 5.7% decline (417,700-394,000). The market grew by 1.6%.

The top five 25-54 was unchanged from last survey. WHTZ was back at #1, while WALK came in at #2. Both stations had down books. COX MEDIA Pop CHR WBLI (106.1 BLI) repeated at #3 but with its best book in over a year. WNEW remained at #4 but with its seventh up book in a row. iHEARTMEDIA AC WLTW (106.7 LITE FM) rounded out the top five again with a slight increase.

WBLI stepped up to #1 18-34 with its highest mark since OCTOBER. WINS stepped down to #2 with its first down book since DECEMBER. WALK remained at #3 as it halted a three-book slide. It was paired with two other stations. WNEW advanced from #10 with its best showing in over a year, while WLTW rose from #7 with its highest Frosty-free number in over a year. WHTZ and CONNOUSSEUR AC WKJY (K-JOY 98.3) went from a tie at #3 to #6 and #7, respectively.

WHTZ made it back-to-back 18-49 wins but with a down book. WNEW moved up to #2 and was now only a half share behind the leader. WALK dipped to #3 and was tied with WBLI, which moved up a slot as it bounced back from a down book. WINS stepped down to #5 but with a small share gain.

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Radio Ratings Roundup, April 2026, Part III

May 20, 2026

Filed Under: Hot Topics

Once again, The Ratings Experts from RESEARCH DIRECTOR, INC.—in a close-knit formation with the spreadsheet warriors from XTRENDS—are charging boldly forward into the rearview mirror. Yes, this whole ratings exercise remains an elaborate attempt to predict the future by dissecting the past. So we cast a nostalgic glance back at the APRIL survey, a 27-day expedition that launched on APRIL 2^nd and wrapped on APRIL 29^th. Along the way, we celebrated EASTER, observed Earth Day, and finalized our tax returns (or extensions). Here’s what the numbers—and history—revealed…

MIAMI-FT. LAUDERDALE-HOLLYWOOD: A Sea Change

Usually this market is fairly predictable with the leaderboards topped by the usual suspects. Stuff happened this time, especially for AUDACY AC WLYF (101.5 LITE FM). The station moved up to #1 6+ for the first time since JULY (6.0-7.1). Meanwhile, SBS Spanish Contemporary WCMQ (Z92.3) leapt from #5 to #2 with its best book in over a year (5.5-6.1). COX MEDIA AC WFEZ (EASY 93.1) dipped to #3, its lowest rank since JUNE (6.3-5.8). COX MEDIA Urban AC WHQT (HOT 105) went from first to fourth with its lowest rank and share in over a year (6.7-5.7). iHEARTMEDIA Spanish Adult Hits WMIA (MAGIC 93.9) moved up two slots to #5 with its third up book in a row (4.9-5.3). TELEVISAUNIVISION Spanish Hot AC WAMR (AMOR 107.5) slipped to #6 (5.7-5.2) and was tied with AUDACY Classic Hits WMXJ (102.7 THE BEACH), which was motionless (5.4-5.2). WLYF was still the cume leader with a 3.1% rise (800,000-824,600). The market was up 0.1%.

WLYF had its best 25-54 book in over a year as it rose from #4 to #1. WMIA stepped up to #2 with a small increase but trailed the leader by a full share. WFEZ dipped to #3 with its lowest score in over a year. It was tied with COX MEDIA Rhythmic AC WFLC (HITS 97.3), which was up from #5 but with a slight decrease. WCMQ inched up to #5 with a slight increase. It was paired with WHQT, which fell from first place.

WLYF more than doubled its previous 18-34 share as it vaulted from a tie at #11 to #1. This ended the four-book winning string for COX MEDIA Urban Contemporary WEDR (99 JAMZ), which dipped to #2. It was paired with WCMQ, which remained in place. That duet trailed the leader by better than a half share. WMIA moved up two places to #4 with a slight increase, while three stations moved up to occupy the #5 space. WHQT was up from #6 with a small decrease. AUDACY Classic Hip Hop WPOW (POWER 96) rose from #9 with its highest score since NOVEMBER. iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR WHYI (Y100) advanced from a tie at #11 with its best book in over a year. SBS Spanish Tropical WXDJ (EL ZOL 106.7FM) and iHEARTMEDIA Urban Contemporary WMIB (103.5 THE BEAT) were last seen at #3 and #5, respectively. They fell into a tie at #8. WFLC dropped from #4 to #12, losing nearly half its previous share in the process.

WLYF completed the demo sweep as it launched itself from #7 to #1 18-49. WCMQ inched up to #2 with a slight decrease, while WPOW advanced from #6 to #3 with a small share gain. WMIA stepped up to #4 with a slight increase, while WHQT dropped from #2 to #5. WFLC returned all of last month’s increase as it fell from #1 to #6. WFEZ had its smallest share in over a year as it moved from #4 into a tie at #10 with iHEARTMEDIA Classic Rock WBGG (BIG 105.9).

SEATTLE-TACOMA: Play Ball

For the fourth book in a row UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON N/T KUOW was #1 6+ by a considerable margin (8.4-10.6). However, proving that life actually does begin on opening day BONNEVILLE Sports KIRO-A (SEATTLE SPORTS 710AM) rose from a tie at #6 to #2 with its best outing since OCTOBER (4.7-6.4). Three stations were circling one another at #3. iHEARTMEDIA Classic Hits KJEB (95.7 THE JET) remained on the tarmac (5.6-5.3), while CRISTA Contemporary Christian KCMS (SPIRIT 105.3) moved up a spot (5.0-5.3). AUDACY Active Rock KISW (THE ROCK) advanced from a tie at #6 with its highest score since DECEMBER (4.7-5.3). HUBBARD AC KRWM (WARM 106.9) went from #5 to #9 with its smallest share since OCTOBER (4.9-4.0). FRIENDS OF KEXP Alternative KEXP ended a strong four-book surge as it dropped from #2 to #11 (6.3-3.6). KRWM still had the most listeners (607,800-618,800) – a 1.8% increase. The market rose by 4.5%.

KISW had a massive 25-54 share increase as it stepped up to #1 25-54. KUOW also had a solid share gain as it moved up to #2, where it was about a share off the lead. This ended the three-book winning string for KEXP, which dropped to #3. KIRO-A rose from #7 to #4, while AUDACY Alternative KNDD (107.7 THE END) was back at #5 with a slight increase. KJEB descended from #3 to #6 and was partnered with KCMS and HUBBARD Pop CHR KQMV (MOViN’ 92.5).

Speaking of which, KQMV repeated as the 18-34 leader and landed in double figures. KISW stepped up to #2 as it bounced back from a down book. Still, it was more than three shares off the pace. AUDACY Country KKWF (100.7 THE WOLF) moved up to #3 with a massive share increase. KNDD remained at #4 but with its smallest share in over a year. It was paired with KIRO-A, which advanced from #8. KJEB slid from #2 to #6 as it surrendered all of last month’s massive increase – plus a bit more. It was joined there by AUDACY Rhythmic AC KHTP (HOT 103.7), which was down to #6 with a small share gain. AUDACY Hot AC KSWD (EMMA 94.1) fell from a tie at #5 into a situation at #11 with KCMS and iHEARTMEDIA Classic Rock KZOK.

Back in JANUARY KQMV was sitting at #10 18-49. It has slowly worked its way up the chart and this time landed at #1 with its best book in over a year. KISW advanced from #5 to #2, while KIRO-A vaulted from #8 to #3. This brought the three-book winning streak of KEXP to a close as it ended up at #4. KNDD dipped to #5 with a slight increase, while KUOW stepped down to #6 with a slight decrease. KJEB dropped from #3 to #9.

PHOENIX: Easy On Down The Road

For the seventh straight survey iHEARTMEDIA AC KESZ (99.9 KEZ) was the leading 6+ station (6.7-6.9). HUBBARD Classic Rock KSLX maintained its presence at #2 (6.6-6.4), while iHEARTMEDIA Country KNIX moved from #5 to #3 with its best book in over a year (4.6-5.2). iHEARTMEDIA N/T KFYI-A repeated at #4 (5.0-4.8), while two stations heading in opposite directions met headlong at #5. AUDACY Classic Hits KOOL (BIG 94.5) slipped from #3 as it returned all of last month’s increase (5.9-4.5), while MARICOPA COMMUNITY COLLEGE N/T KJZZ rose from #7 with its highest mark in over a year (3.9-4.5). KESZ kept cume control despite a 1.6% decline (966,500-950,600). The market was off 0.5%.

Make it eight straight 25-54 wins for KESZ as the station ended a three-book slide. iHEARTMEDIA Adult Hits KYOT (95.5 THE MOUNTAIN) climbed from #4 to #2 with a small increase. TELEVISAUNIVISION Mexican Regional KHOT (QUÉ BUENA 105.9) dipped to #3 with its smallest share since OCTOBER, while ENTRAVISION Mexican Regional KLNZ (LA TRICOLOR 103.5) stepped down to #4 as it surrendered most of last month’s share increase. KOOL remained at #5 with a slight decrease.

Last month KESZ fell from #1 to #4 18-34. HUBBARD Alternative KDKB (ALT AZ 93.3) dropped from #2 to #9. Both stations recovered this time to land in a tie at #1. KYOT dipped to #3, while four – count ‘em – four stations were massed together at #4. KHOT stepped down from #3, while AUDACY Pop CHR KALV (LIVE 101.5) came down from #1 as it gave back most of last month’s huge increase. KNIX moved up from #7 while HUBBARD Active Rock KUPD vaulted from #13. Both stations posted their largest shares in over a year. iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR KZZP (104.7 KISS FM) slid from a tie at #4 to #12 with its lowest score since JULY.

KESZ rebounded from a down book to move back up to #1 18-49. KLNZ inched up to #2 despite giving up most of last month’s share gain. KHOT landed its lowest total since AUGUST as it went from first to third. KDKB leapt from #11 to #4 with its best outing since NOVEMBER. Three stations were fighting for attention at #5. KALV and KOOL moved down from a tie at #4, while KYOT stepped up from #6.

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DETROIT: Ticket To Ride

For the fourth book in a row, AUDACY Sports WXYT (97.1 THE TICKET) was the 6+ champion. The station also landed its largest share in over a year (9.0-11.3). iHEARTMEDIA AC WNIC moved up to #2 with its best Frosty-free share since SEPTEMBER (7.0-7.5). AUDACY Classic Hits WOMC dipped to #3 (7.3-7.3), while AUDACY Country WYCD remained at #4 with its first down book since DECEMBER (6.3-6.0). iHEARTMEDIA Urban AC WMXD (MIX 92.3) was back at #5 (5.9-6.0). WNIC padded its cume lead with a 5.6% increase (983,400-1,038,4000). The market grew by 2.1%.

Four is a good number for WXYT. It was #1 25-54 for the fourth book in a row, all of which have been in double figures. iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR WKQI (CHANNEL 955) repeated at #2 with a down book and was six shares behind the leader. iHEARTMEDIA Urban Contemporary WJLB held steady at #3 with a slight decrease, while BEASLEY Active Rock WRIF stepped up to #4 with a slight increase. WOMC dipped to #5 and was feeling the heat from the stationary WNIC at #6.

There was quite the movement in the 18-34 ranks. Last month WJLB was #2 and in double figures. The station had a down book, remained in double digits and stepped up to #1. Not to be out done, WXYT also hit double digits as it rose from #3 to claim a share of the lead. WKQI went from first to third as its three-book winning string came to an end. WNIC moved from #6 to #4 with its highest Frosty-free share in over a year. AUDACY Alternative WDZH (ALT 98.7) remained at #5 with its best showing since SEPTEMBER. WOMC went from #4 to #6 with a large share loss.

WXYT was #1 18-49 for the, yup, fourth book in a row. The station also hit double figures again. WJLB stepped up to #2 with a slight decrease, while WKQI dipped to #3 as it ended a strong three-book surge. It was tied with WNIC, which rose from #5 with a solid share gain. WOMC moved down a spot to #5 with a small decrease.

MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL: A Photo Finish

iHEARTMEDIA Sports KFXN (KFAN FM 100.3) was back at #1 6+ but by a narrow margin (7.3-8.2) as MPR N/T KNOW remained in hot pursuit at #2 (7.2-8.1). KNOW was granted an additional 1.1 share from the digital realm. iHEARTMEDIA Country KEEY (K102) moved from #5 to #3 with its best showing in over a year (6.3-7.2). iHEARTMEDIA Classic Hits KQQL (KOOL 108) dipped to #4 (6.9-7.0), while HUBBARD Hot AC KSTP (KS95) stepped down to #5 (6.7-6.8). KQQL maintained its cume lead with a 4.6% increase (674,200-705,500). The market was off 0.4%.

KFXN extended its 25-54 double-digit streak to ten as it finished in first place for the fourth book in a row. KQQL moved up to #2 with its largest Frosty-free share in over a year. MPR AAA KCMP (89.3 THE CURRENT) moved down a spot to #3 with a slight increase, while KEEY went from #6 to #4 with its fourth up book in a row. iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR KDWB and AUDACY Adult Hits KZJK (104.1 JACK FM) went from a tie at #4 to one at #5 even though both stations rebounded from down books.

For the fourth straight survey KCMP was #1 18-34 and held about a share advantage over two stations at #2. KFXN moved up a slot as it snapped a six-book slide, while KDWB vaulted from #9, nearly doubling its previous share. KQQL went from #2 to #4 with its smallest share since NOVEMBER. KZJK stepped up to #5 as it bounced back from a down book. iHEARTMEDIA Hot AC KTCZ (CITIES 97.1) fell from #4 to #7 with only a slight decrease.

As with an earlier demo KFXN extended its double-digit 18-49 string to ten and was #1 for the fourth straight survey. KCMP was back at #2 with a small increase and was better than two shares off the pace. KDWB moved up a slot to #3 as it regained all of last month’s lost share. KQQL dipped to #4 with a slight increase, while KZJK repeated at #5. It was paired with KNOW, which moved up from #7. Both stations bounced back from down books.

Thank you for your participation. Stay tuned for TAMPA, DENVER, SAN DIEGO, CHARLOTTE, and NASSAU-SUFFOLK.

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Radio Ratings Roundup, April 2026, Part II

May 19, 2026

Filed Under: Hot Topics

If APRIL showers bring MAY flowers, what do APRIL ratings bring? We’ll let that one just hang in the air for a bit and let the radio pundit class debate it. We are merely the humble Ratings Experts from RESEARCH DIRECTOR, INC. We embark on this monthly journey through the morass of data with our trusty partners from XTRENDS.

This book ran from APRIL 2^nd through APRIL 29^th, a rare calendar convergence. It featured the EASTER holiday, the introduction of the ABS system “for real” and, of course, those aforementioned precipitation events. Here’s how it all played out…

SAN FRANCISCO: Spoken Word Rules

As usual. Last month KQED INC. N/T KQED and AUDACY News KCBS (ALL NEWS 106.9FM/740AM) were the 6+ co-leaders. KQED remained on top for the fourth book in a row (8.6-9.2), while KCBS drifted down to second place (8.6-8.7). The music posse was fighting for third place. That went to BONNEVILLE AC KOIT (4.8-4.6). BONNEVILLE Hot AC KMVQ (99.7 NOW) remained at #4 (4.5-4.4) but was paired with iHEARTMEDIA Hot AC KIOI (STAR 101.3), which rose from #6 (4.1-4.4). iHEARTMEDIA Soft AC KISQ (98.1 THE BREEZE) wafted down to #6 (4.5-4.3). KOIT was still the cume leader despite a 10.7% decline (1,145,600-1,022,900). The market was off at 1.6%.

Last survey KQED and KIOI were #2 and #3, respectively, 25-54. KQED was up slightly while KIOI landed its fifth straight up book. Both stations rose together to #1. KMVQ went from first to third with a small share loss. iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR KYLD (WiLD 94.9) moved from #6 to #4 with its best outing in over a year. SBS Regional Mexican KRZZ (LA RAZA 93.3) also landed its largest share in over a year as it rose from #7 to #5. A couple of stations were forced to exit the top five. AUDACY Alternative KITS (LIVE 105) and KOIT went from a tie at #4 to #6 and #7, respectively.

There was also sort of movement in the 18-34 ranks. KOIT rebounded from a down book to rise to #1. KRZZ remained behind at #2 and was paired with iHEARTMEDIA Rhythmic CHR KMEL, which moved up from #4 as it also bounced back from a down book. KMVQ went from first to fourth with its smallest share since the place was lousy with leaping lords. It was joined there by KISQ, up from #5, and KIOI, which advanced from #9 with its best showing in over a year. KYLD and KITS slipped from a tie at #5 into the same situation at #8.

In an odd turn of events the top four 18-49 stations each posted their largest number in over a year. KIOI repeated as the market leader, while KYLD vaulted from #6 to #2. KMVQ remained at #3 and was met there by KRZZ, which advanced from #8. KQED slid from #2 to #5. KITS went from #4 to #6, while KOIT slipped from #5 to #7. All three stations had slight decreases.

ATLANTA: The Majic Is Back

Last month URBAN ONE Urban AC WAMJ (MAJIC 107.5/97.5) went from first to third 6+. The station responded with its highest share in over a rear to move back to #1 (6.9-7.5). COX MEDIA Classic Hits WSRV (97.1 THE RIVER) kept flowing at #2 (7.0-7.4), while the previous leader—COX MEDIA N/T WSB-A—slid to #3 as it returned most of last month’s huge increase (8.5-7.0). AUDACY Urban AC WVEE (V-103) repeated at #4 (6.7-6.7), while COX MEDIA Urban AC WALR (KISS 104.1) was back at #5 (6.4-6.3). COX MEDIA AC WSB-F (B98.5) still had the most listeners (770,600-787,500)—a 2.2% rise. The market grew by 0.4%.

When last we visited, WAMJ and WSB-F were #2 and #3, respectively, 25-54. Each station posted its best score in over a year as they rose as one to #1. WVEE went from #1 to #3 with a modest share loss. WSRV repeated at #4 with a slight decrease. AUDACY Sports WZGC (92.9FM THE GAME) advanced from #8 to #5 as it rebounded from a down book. WSB-A slipped to #6 and was tied with WALR.

WSB-F landed its largest 18-34 share since NOVEMBER as it stepped up to #1. It narrowly edged the former leader as WSRV dipped to second place with a slight decrease. They were well ahead of #3 WVEE, which held steady with a small share loss. iHEARTMEDIA Urban Contemporary WRDG (96.1 THE BEAT) dipped to #4 with its smallest share since Santa was roaming the streets. It was paired with WALR, which stepped up a spot with a solid increase.

Thanks to its best 18-49 book in over a year, WSB-F moved up to #1. This ended the four-book winning string for WVEE, which stepped down to #2. WSRV dipped to #3 with a slight increase, while WAMJ repeated at #4 with its best showing in exactly a year. WSB-A was back at #5 with a down book.

WASHINGTON, DC: Turn It Up To Eleven

HUBBARD News WTOP was #1 6+ for the eleventh straight survey, all of which have been in double figures (14.3-12.9). AMERICAN UNIVERSITY N/T WAMU was in second place again as it extended its double-digit string to four (10.8-10.4). The leading music station this time was ATLANTIC GATEWAY Contemporary Christian WGTS, which rose from #6 to #3 with its best performance in over a year (4.6-5.7). HOWARD UNIVERSITY Urban AC WHUR dipped to #4 with its smallest share in exactly a year (5.8-5.4). iHEARTMEDIA AC WASH stepped down to #5 (5.1-5.0), while iHEARTMEDIA Alternative WWDC (DC101) slipped to #6 (4.8-4.9). WASH padded its cume lead with a 9.1% increase (795,700-868,200). The market was up by 0.5%.

WAMU was #1 25-54 for the fourth straight survey, the last three of which have been in double figures. WTOP remained at #2 and continued to trail the leader by about a share. WWDC rebounded from a down book to step up to #3, while WASH dipped to #4 with a slight decrease. WGTS inched up to #5 as it ended a steep two-book slide. iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR WIHT (HOT 99.5) slid from #5 to #8 with its lowest score since we were hallucinating about fruit.

WASH had its best Frosty-free 18-34 share in over a year as it rose from #4 to #1. This pushed two-time winner WTOP down to #2. WIHT leapt from #5 to #3 as it halted a two-book slide. iHEARTMEDIA Classic Rock WBIG (BIG 100) dipped to #4 with its lowest mark since NOVEMBER. A flat WWDC moved up a spot to #5, while iHEARTMEDIA Country WMZQ fell from #2 to #6. It shed almost half its previous share.

WTOP was #1 18-49 for the fourth straight survey but was unable to extend its double-digit string to three. WAMU remained at #2 with a down book and was a half share off the pace. WASH repeated at #3 with its highest Frosty-free share in over a year, while WWDC was back at #4 with a modest share increase. WGTS rose from #8 to #5, while WHUR fell from #5 to #8.

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PHILADELPHIA: Good Sports

The anticipation of the PHILLIES slow start fueled AUDACY Sports WIP (94WIP SPORTARADIO) to #1 6+ (6.6-7.4). BEASLEY Active Rock WMMR regained most of last month’s large share loss as it moved from #5 to #2 (5.8-6.9). BEASLEY Classic Rock WMGK had its two-book winning streak snapped as it slipped to #3 (7.1-6.3). AUDACY AC WBEB (B101) went from a tie at #2 to #4 (6.6-6.1), while iHEARTMEDIA Urban AC WDAS dipped to #5 (6.5-5.9). WBEB still held the cume lead despite a 0.8% decline (1,168,000-1,158,500). The market increased 1.0%.

The 25-54 space was a tale of two stations. WMMR regained all of last month’s share loss—plus some added value—as it moved back to #1. Meanwhile, WBEB returned most of last month’s large increase as it stepped down to #2. WIP and WDAS also pulled a switcheroo with WIP up to #3 with a solid share gain, while WDAS dipped to #4 with a small share loss. iHEARTMEDIA Urban Contemporary WUSL (POWER 99) was up a spot to #5 with a slight decrease. This pushed WHYY INC. N/T WHYY down to #6 where it was tied with iHeart Media Pop CHR WIOQ (Q102).

Beasley Country WXTU (92.5 XTU) and WBEB remained #1 and #2, respectively, 18-34 despite the fact that both stations experienced large share losses. iHEARTMEDIA Alternative WRFF (ALT 104.5) vaulted from #9 to a very close #3 with its best showing since JULY. BEASLEY Adult Hits WBEN (95.7 BEN FM) rose from #7 to #4 as it bounced back from a down book. WUSL dipped to #5, while WMGK dropped from #3 to #6. Both stations had noticeable share losses. URBAN ONE Urban AC WRNB (100.3 RnB) dropped from #5 to #13 as it returned all of last month’s share increase, plus a little extra.

As with the previous demo, WMMR got back some of last month’s huge share loss to move up to #1 18-49, while WBEB did the opposite as it stepped down to #2. WIP repeated at #3 with a solid increase, while WUSL inched up to #4 with a small share loss. WXTU slipped from #3 to #5 and narrowly defeated WBEN, which rose from #9 to #6.

BOSTON: Wait, Wait…

We’ll tell you. BOSTON UNIVERSITY N/T WBUR moved up to #1 6+ with its best showing in over a year (5.6-6.6). Two stations moved up to forge a tie at #2. iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR WXKS (KISS 108) rose from #4 with its fourth straight up book (5.2-5.9), while BEASLEY Sports WBZ-F (98.5 THE SPORTS HUB) advanced from #5 (5.1-5.9). This ended the two-book winning string for AUDACY AC WMJX (MAGIC 106.7), which drifted down to #4 with its smallest share since JULY (6.2-5.8). BEASLEY Classic Hits WROR went from #3 to #5 (5.3-5.6). WMJX kept the cume crown with a 3.4% increase (832,200-860,900). The market was up 2.1%.

WXKS leapt from #3 to #1 25-54 with its highest mark in over a year. WBZ-F was back at #2 with a small increase and trailed the new leader by a full share. This halted the two-book winning streak for AUDACY Hot AC WBMX (MIX 104.1), which slipped to #3 with a slight decrease. WBUR stepped up to #4 with its fourth straight up book. iHEARTMEDIA Classic Rock WZLX went from #7 to #5 as it bounced back from a down book. WMJX slipped two places to #6 as it returned all of last month’s share increase.

Despite a slight decrease WMJX was #1 18-34 for the sixth straight survey. A flat WXKS repeated at #2 but was joined in that space by WBMX, which rose from #4 as it rebounded from a down book. IHEARTMEDIA Rhythmic CHR WJMN (JAM’N 94.5) dipped to #4 with its second straight down book. It was partnered with a couple of stations that came roaring up the chart. AUDACY Adult Hits WBGB (BIG 103) vaulted from #13 with its highest mark in over a year. WZLX advanced from #16 with its best book since SEPTEMBER. BEASLEY Rhythmic AC WBQT (HOT 96.9) slid from #5 to #8 thus ending a three-book surge.

WXKS had its best 18-49 book in over a year as it moved up to #1. WBMX was down to #2 and went from a small lead to trailing by more than a share. WBUR leapt from #6 to #3 with its highest score in over a year. WMJX slipped to #4 and met up with the stationary WBZ-F. WZLX rose from #9 to #6, while WJMN dipped from #5 to #7.

Thanks for reading. We have a fresh batch of markets baking in the oven. On tap are MIAMI, SEATTLE, PHOENIX, DETROIT, and MINNEAPOLIS. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog at www.ResearchDirectorInc.com/Hot-Topics. And remember, sharing is caring—spread the word far and wide.

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Radio Ratings Roundup, April 2026, Part I

May 18, 2026

Filed Under: Hot Topics

Welcome back my friends to the show that never ends (ear worm alert!). Here we are, about a third of the way through the NIELSEN year and what do we have to show for it? Ratings goulash. Or maybe it’s a callaloo. Whatever you wish to call it The Ratings Experts from RESEARCH DIRECTOR, INC.—along with the data sous chefs from XTRENDS—are here to dissect the APRIL situation.

The book ran from APRIL 2^nd through the 29^th. A rare convergence of the ratings and thew Gregorian calendar. It featured the EASTER holiday and our first look at the ABS system in real time (IYKYK). Here’s how the ratings service called it…

NEW YORK: Same As It Ever Was

Oooh, another ear worm. Nothing much to see here as the usual suspects were in their usual positions, for the most part. iHEARTMEDIA AC WLTW (106.7 LITE FM) was #1 6+ again with its best Frosty-free share since SEPTEMBER (7.4-8.1). AUDACY News WINS (1010 WINS) was back at #2 (7.2-7.1), while AUDACY Classic Hits WCBS inched up to #3 (5.4-5.4). IHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR WHTZ (Z100) dipped to #4 (5.6-5.2), while NEW YORK PUBLIC RADIO N/T WNYC remained at #5 (4.9-4.7). MEDIACO Urban AC WBLS was close behind at #6 (4.8-4.6). WLTW padded its cume lead with a 3.7% increase (3,758,200-3,898,300). The market grew by 0.8%.

Despite a slight decrease WLTW was #1 25-54 for the third book in a row. WHTZ repeated at #2 as it ended a two-book surge. It was about a half share off the lead. iHEARTMEDIA Urban Contemporary WWPR (POWER 105.1) bounced back from a down book to elevate from #5 to #3. AUDACY Hot AC WNEW (NEW 102.7) stepped down to #4, while WCBS dipped to #5. Both stations had slight decreases.

A flat WLTW was #1 18-34 for the seventh straight survey. WHTZ stood alone at #2 with a slight increase but was about a share and a half off the pace. WNEW went from a tie at #2 to #3 with a slight decrease. WWPR again rebounded from a down book to move from #6 to #4. WCBS accomplished the same feat as it rose from #8 to #5. WBLS halted a strong three-book surge as it slipped from #4 to #6. It was joined there by MEDIACO Rhythmic CHR WQHT (HOT 97), which dipped from #5 with its lowest score since OCTOBER.

WLTW landed its best Frosty-free 18-49 share in exactly a year as it moved back up to #1. WHTZ was forced to step down to #2 as it surrendered some of last month’s share increase. WWPR moved up a spot to #3 as it regained some of last month’s lost share. WNEW dipped to #4, while iHEARTMEDIA Hot AC WKTU (103.5 KTU) remained at #5. Both stations had small share losses.

LOS ANGELES: KOST Control

For the sixth straight survey iHEARTMEDIA AC KOST was #1 6+. The station also posted its largest Frosty-free share in over a year (6.5-7.1). iHEARTMEDIA Hot AC KBIG (104.3 MYFM) was back at #2 with its highest mark in over a year (5.9-6.2). AUDACY Classic Hits KRTH (K-EARTH 101.1FM) repeated at #3 (5.0-5.0) (flat Earthers rejoice!), while AUDACY Adult Hits KCBS (93.1 JACK FM) remained at #4 (4.9-4.6). AUDACY News KNX moved from a tie at #6 to #5 (4.1-4.1). SBS Mexican Regional KLAX (LA RAZA 97.9) fell from #5 to #13 with its lowest score since DECEMBER (4.4-3.2). It was partnered with TELEVISAUNIVISION Spanish Contemporary KLVE (K-LOVE 107.5), which was up a slot (3.1-3.2), and iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR KIIS (102.7 KISS FM), which slid from #8 with its smallest share in over a year (3.8-3.2). KOST increased its market leading cume total by 12.5% (2,280,500-2,566,700). The market rose by 0.5%.

Last month KBIG and AUDACY Alternative KROQ were the 25-54 co-leaders. That partnership was dissolved this time. KBIG remained in first place with a slight increase, while KROQ slid to #5 with its lowest total since SEPTEMBER. KOST stepped up to #2 with a slight increase, while a flat KCBS moved from #5 to #3. KRTH remained at #4 with a slight decrease. iHEARTMEDIA Alternative KYSR (ALT 98.7) remained at #6 and was a click behind its arch nemesis KROQ.

KOST was #1 18-34 for the sixth straight survey. It held better than a three-share advantage over the two stations nestled in at #2. KRTH moved from #5 to #2 as it bounced back from a down book. It was joined there by iHEARTMEDIA Urban Contemporary KRRL (REAL 92.3), which advanced from #11 with its best outing in over a year. TELEVISAUNIVISION Mexican Regional KSCA (LA NUEVA 101.9) slipped two places to #4 with a small decrease and narrowly defeated KYSR, which was back at #5 but also with a small share loss. KIIS and KYSR were last seen at #3. KISS landed at #6, while KROQ ended up at #7 along with KBIG. AUDACY Urban AC KTWV (94.7 THE WAVE) ebbed from #5 to #9 with its lowest mark in over a year.

KOST had its best Frosty-free 18-49 share in over a year as it finished at #1 for the third book in a row. Last month a flat KBIG held a share of the demo lead but dipped to #2 this time. A flat KCBS stepped up to #3, while KROQ moved down to #4. It was paired with KRTH, which inched up from #5. Both stations had down books.

CHICAGO: Double A

For the second straight survey AUDACY AAA WXRT (93XRT) was #1 6+ (6.1-6.3). AUDACY News WBBM-A was back at #2 (6.0-5.7) but was forced to share as HUBBARD Hot AC WTMX (101.9 THE MIX) moved up from #3 to forge the tie (5.6-5.7). HUBBARD Classic Rock WDRV (97.1 THE DRIVE) motored up to #4 with its best showing since JUNE (4.3-5.1). AUDACY Country WUSN (US 99) remained at #5 (4.4-4.4), while two stations were huddled together at #6. iHEARTMEDIA AC WLIT (93.9 LITE FM) slipped from #4 with its lowest score in over a year (5.0-4.0). It was paired with iHEARTMEDIA Urban AC WVAZ (V103), which moved up a slot (4.0-4.0). WLIT kept cume control despite a 4.1% decline (1,370,200-1,314,100). The market was up 1.0%.

WTMX landed its largest 25-54 share in over a year, which kept the station in first place for the fourth book in a row. iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR WKSC (103.5 KISS FM) stepped up to #2 with its best outing since JULY but still trailed the leader by about three shares. WXRT dipped to #3 even though it rebounded from a down book. AUDACY Pop CHR WBBM-F (B96) moved from #6 to #4, while iHEARTMEDIA Urban Contemporary WGCI advanced from #7 to #5. Both stations had slight increases. WUSN and WLIT were previously seen at #4. WUSN dropped into a tie at #5, while WLIT slid to #8.

Not only was WKSC #1 18-34 for the fourth straight survey, the station found itself in that rarefied air of double figures. WTMX moved up to #2 with its highest mark in over a year but remained about three plus shares off the lead. A flat WBBM-F stepped down to #3, while WUSN leapt from #7 to #4 as it regained a small portion of last month’s huge share loss. WGCI was back at #5 with a small decrease. WLIT and CRAWFORD Urban Contemporary WPWX (POWER 92) were #4 and #5, respectively. Both stations had down books.

WTMX was #1 18-49 for the fourth straight survey. WKSC stepped up to #2 with its best showing since OCTOBER, while WGCI inched up to #3 with a slight decrease. WXRT slipped from #2 to #4 as it surrendered most of last month’s increase. WBBM-F remained at #5 with a slight decrease.

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DALLAS-FT. WORTH: Everybody Tighten Up

The 6+ leaderboard was being hotly contested. iHEARTMEDIA Hot AC KDMX (MIX 102.9) stood alone at #1 this month (4.5-4.3) but was closely pursued by iHEARTMEDIA AC KDGE (STAR 102.1), which stepped up to #2 (4.3-4.2). AUDACY Sports KRLD (105.3 THE FAN) vaulted from #9 to #3 with its best offensive performance in over a year (3.6-4.0). NORTH TEXAS PUBLIC BROADCASTING N/T KERA jumped from #7 to #4 (3.8-3.9) with its highest mark since JUNE). TELEVISAUNIVISION Mexican Regional KLNO (QUÉ BUENA 94.1) and AUDACY Adult Hits KJKK (100.3 JACK FM) were previously a pair at #4. KLNO dipped to #5 (4.2-3.7), while KJKK landed at #6 (4.2-3.6). Last month K-LOVE, INC. Contemporary Christian KLTY (K-LOVE) was tied with KDMX for the market lead. The station did not fare as well this time as it fell to #11 (4.5-3.2). KDGE was still the cume leader despite a 12.0% decline (1,312,500-1,155,400). The market was off by 2.0%.

Despite landing its smallest share since OCTOBER KLNO was #1 25-54 for the fourth book in a row. KDMX was back at #2 as it ended a robust two-book surge. KRLD rose from #5 to #3 with, again, its best outing in over a year. KDGE dipped to #4 with a slight decrease, while SERVICE Urban Contemporary KKDA (K104) remained at #5 with a slight increase. KJKK slid from #3 to #6, halting a strong three-book surge.

KDGE landed its largest Frosty-free 18-34 share in over a year as it vaulted from #6 to #1. KKDA moved down to #2 with a large share loss but was still within shouting distance of the leader. AUDACY Alternative KVIL (ALT 103.7) leapt from #9 to #3, thus ending a steep two-book slide. URBAN ONE Rhythmic CHR KBFB (97.9 THE BEAT) had its best showing since NOVEMBER as it advanced from #12 to #4. KDMX remained at #5 but with its smallest share in over a year. KLNO fell from #2 into a tie at #6 with KJKK and iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR KHKS (106.1 KISS FM).

For the second book in a row, and third time in the last four surveys, KLNO was #1 18-49. KDMX repeated at #2 as the stations remained a half share apart. KRLD rose from #7 to #3. KKDA was close behind as it was back at #4 but with a down book. KDGE slipped into a tie at #5 with KJKK.

HOUSTON-GALVESTON: Nine Lives

iHEARTMEDIA AC KODA (SUNNY 99.1) was flat 6+ for the third book in a row (9.0-9.0) but captured the flag for the ninth straight survey. URBAN ONE Urban AC KMJQ (MAJIC 102.1) was back at #2 (6.9-7.1), while iHEARTMEDIA Alternative KTBZ (94.5 THE BUZZ) advanced from #7 to #3 with its best outing in over a year (4.4-5.6). URBAN ONE Classic Rock KGLK (106.9/107.5 THE EAGLE) remained nested at #4 (5.4-5.5), while HOPE MEDIA Contemporary Christian KSBJ stepped up to #5 (4.6-5.3). URBAN ONE Country KKBQ (93Q) landed its smallest share since SEPTEMBER as it slipped from #3 to #6 (6.6-5.2). UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON N/T KUHF (NEWS 88.7) moved from #5 to #7 (4.9-4.8). KODA still had the most listeners (1,914,200-1,766,700) – a 7.7% drop. The market was off by 3.4%.

Last month KTBZ and KODA were sharing the 25-54 crown. This month KTBZ stood alone at #1 with its best book in over a year. KODA dipped to #2 with a small increase. KSBJ rebounded from a down book to move from #6 to #3, while KMJQ repeated at #4 with a small share loss. AUDACY Hot AC KHMX (MIX 96.5) was back at #5 with a slight decrease. KKBQ dropped from #3 to #9.

KTBZ had another buzz worthy 18-34 performance as it was #1 for the fourth book in a row, the last three of which have hit double figures. KODA repeated at #2 and also hit double digits. These two were well clear of KGLK, which rose from #7 to #3 with its best showing in over a year. AUDACY Adult Hits KKHH (95.7 THE SPOT) dipped to #4, while KHMX held steady at #5. KMJQ fell from #4 to #8 with its lowest total since SEPTEMBER.

For over a year the 18-49 demo has been the domain of KTBZ and KODA. These two stations have been either #1 or #2 during that span. This month KTBZ claimed the crown with, again, its best book in over a year. KODA dipped to #2 with a slight increase. KSBJ bounced back from a down book to rise from #6 to a distant #3. KHMX maintained its #4 image with a slight increase, while KKHH continued to lay claim to the #5 position, also with a slight increase. KKBQ dropped from #3 to #10 with its smallest share since JUNE.

One down, three to go. Thanks for playing along. Waiting in the queue are SAN FRANCISCO, ATLANTA, WASHINGTON D.C., PHILADELPHIA, and BOSTON. They will be in your inbox tomorrow.

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Crossing the Streams

May 11, 2026

Filed Under: Hot Topics

Image by Abdellah Benziane of Pexels.

You may have seen the recent announcement that Nielsen will be working with Triton Digital to provide “enhanced visibility, accessibility and utility of podcast data to the industry.”

Good for you, podcasts. Because what radio really needs is better measurement of podcasts.

Snark aside, I’m not against podcasts. They are a valuable source of entertainment and potential revenue. But at its core, podcasts are nothing more than spoken word audio—something radio kind of invented.

You know what would be a boon for radio? If Nielsen partnered with Triton Digital (and every other back end digital measurement firm) to do a better job of measuring digital listening for…radio stations.

Both Jacobs Tech Survey and Edison’s Share of Ear studies show that listeners are increasingly listening to radio stations via their digital outlets. This is great news for radio as it extends our reach and enhances our viability.

If only Nielsen could do a better job of including stream listening in the ratings. The current system is woefully inadequate.

I’ll remind you how this works, at least in a PPM world. IF a meter happens to pick up your stream the actual listening will be greatly, uh, enhanced. Depending on your format and/or the demo involved you’ll be granted a “headphone adjustment,” an ironic term since the meter cannot hear anything that is played through wireless ear buds or headphones.

The technical term for this is “statistical modeling” …or you can just say it’s an educated guess. Nielsen’s headphone adjustment process and the specific value of the factors are patented and proprietary. Either way this ONLY helps your ratings if at least one meter actually “hears” your stream.

I can see the collective eye roll from Programmers around the country who see the exact numbers of unique stream listeners every day. They dream of finding a way to add that volume of listening to what is currently being published. This streaming data is verifiable, precise and, for the most part, ignored. The challenges include attributing demographics to streamed listening, and Nielsen would have to account for duplication between the OTA audience and the streamed audience. They seem to have figured this out for television. Hopefully they can apply those lessons to radio.

I get the importance of podcasts. But for every Joe Rogan and Call Her Daddy, there are—literally—millions of podcasts out there. According to Podcast Statistics, as of early 2026 there were 4.5 to 4.6 MILLION registered podcasts. Of that number, between 342,000 and 391,000 were considered active. (Note to podcast Mafia: this is what Gemini told me.) This is a viable industry that deserves accurate information on how it is consumed.

So does radio.

Digital continues to be the shiny object. Radio is doing a credible job of conforming to that space. Isn’t it time we get full credit for our efforts?

Feel free to tell me I’m full of it: sallan@researchdirectorinc.com

PS: Please don’t cross the streams as it will cause a total protonic reversal and end all life as we know it.

Ratings Are Life

April 30, 2026

Filed Under: Hot Topics

You’ve probably heard of Roy Williams, aka The Wizard of Ads. You may not know he does a weekly “Monday Morning Memo” that is a must subscribe. This week’s memo, A Line of Standing Dominoes, focused on ratings and the Nielsen/Cumulus skirmish. Here are a few highlights from that memo:

Image by Ron Lach, Pexels.com

There are 6,602 FM radio stations in America, 597 FM stations in Canada, and 234 in Australia on which you can air radio ads for local businesses. These radio stations are producing miraculous results for business owners who hire great ad writers to enchant the audience and savvy media buyers to schedule those ads to air with correct repetition 52 weeks a year.

Sadly, most business owners do exactly the wrong thing. They run short schedules to “test the waters,” and then announce, “I tried radio and it didn’t work.”

Williams applies the same logic to television. Then he zings the digital ecosphere:

Anyone who believes that online media has made mass media obsolete is comically delusional. I never waste time attempting to correct these people.

In the last week we have seen positive news about the state of radio from both Edison Research and Jacobs Media. Is radio in the same position as it was 15 years ago? Absolutely not. Is radio still a viable medium for both entertainment and advertising? Absolutely!

Radio does have its issues. The core audience is aging. The competition for attention continues to expand. And the car—radio’s last big fortress—is under siege.

What radio does have in abundance is credibility. Advertisers do not re-up their schedules because they don’t work. Listeners keep tuning in because radio is free and—when at its best—fills an emotional need.

All of this depends on ratings. Nielsen is our currency. It has its flaws but until there is a better system we need to not only embrace it but tout its viability.

Digital attribution is always the counterweight to this. That system is also flawed but contains one thing radio does not—fraud. Imagine if radio ran spots no one could hear (digital ads count even when they are not actually seen). Imagine if PPM or diaries were filled out by bots (two words: bot farms).

Digital has its place. So does radio. We may be old, but to paraphrase Monty Python—we’re not dead yet.

Feel free to tell me I’m full of it: sallan@researchdirectorinc.com

PS: Here’s what Roy Williams said about the Cumulus/Nielsen thing:

We will now return to the dominoes.

Nielsen Audio is the media measurement company that allows savvy media buyers to create miraculous radio schedules. Without Nielsen, they are flying blind without instruments and very likely to crash their flying machines.
Cumulus owns multiple radio stations in 84 important cities in the U.S. Their current financial difficulties make it impossible for them to pay Nielsen for their measurement services.
Nielsen has responded by announcing that Cumulus radio stations will no longer be measured or listed in future ratings reports.
The resulting invisibility of those stations will cripple even the savviest media buyers.
An emerging measurement system, DTS AutoStage, shows promise but I remain convinced that it will be at least a few more years before it has sufficient breadth of data to replace Nielsen.

The finger of Nielsen is flicking the domino that will knock over the other 6,602 dominoes in the chain that will ultimately result in the demise of Nielsen.

The Consultative Radio Seller: Part 2

April 28, 2026

Filed Under: Hot Topics

Image by Markus Winkler of Pexels.com

The Consultative Radio Seller: A Three-Part Playbook

Part 2: The Consultative Conversation – Asking Better Questions

In Part 1, we talked about the mindset shift from “spot seller” to “marketing resource.” Once you see yourself as a problem solver instead of an inventory pusher, the next step is changing how you talk with clients. That starts with the consultative conversation—a different kind of sales call that is built on questions, listening, and curiosity, not pitches and packages. A traditional seller comes to the call ready to talk. A marketing resource comes to the call ready to learn.

What’s the difference between being a radio seller and a marketing resource to your clients?

Stop leading with schedules. Start with the business.

Most “radio sales” calls still sound the same: a quick check-in, a reminder that it’s time to renew, and then a jump into rates, CPP, and what’s available in this month’s package. That keeps the conversation narrow and transactional.

A consultative conversation flips that script. Before you bring up spots or pricing, you ask about the business:

“What are the most important goals for your business over the next 6–12 months?”
“Where are you seeing growth right now, and where are things stuck?”
“Who is your ideal customer today? Has that changed in the last few years?”

These questions do three important things. First, they signal that you care about more than “closing a buy.” Second, they help you understand the real problem the advertiser is trying to solve. Third, they give you context so you can position radio and digital in a way that makes sense for this specific business, not just in general terms.

Go deeper than “we need more customers.”

Most advertisers will start with something broad: “We just need more customers” or “We need to get our name out there.” A marketing resource doesn’t stop there. You gently go deeper so you can diagnose what kind of marketing help they actually need:

“When you say ‘more customers,’ do you mean more total volume, more repeat business, or higher-spending customers?”
“How do new customers usually find you now—search, social, word-of-mouth, drive-by, something else?”
“What are your busiest times of year and your slowest? What do you do now to smooth that out?”

The answers to these questions tell you whether the main issue is awareness, perception, competition, or something else. That matters, because radio’s role in an awareness problem is different from its role in a perception problem. Once you know the real obstacle, you can recommend radio and digital together in a way that feels tailored, not generic.

Make their digital activity part of the conversation.

In a digital-first world, you build credibility by leaning into what the client is already doing online, not ignoring it or fighting it. A consultative conversation includes questions like:

“What digital marketing are you doing right now, and how is it performing?”
“What do you like about your current digital campaigns? What frustrates you?”
“When you look at your reports or dashboards, what numbers do you actually pay attention to?”

This is where you begin to separate yourself from the average “radio rep.” You’re not there to tear down digital; you’re there to help them make sense of it. When they show you a social dashboard or a search report, you can connect those numbers to real-world outcomes—foot traffic, phone calls, web form fills—and then show how radio can help improve those results by building awareness and trust in the local market.

Instead of “radio vs. digital,” your conversation becomes “radio plus digital, working together.”

Translate what you hear into a simple problem statement.

At some point in the conversation, it helps to repeat back what you’ve heard in a clear, simple way. For example:

“So, if I’m hearing you right, you’re getting a good response from people who already know you and search for you, but you’re not reaching enough new people who don’t know your name yet.”
“It sounds like you’re busy on weekends but would really benefit from more weekday business, especially in the afternoons.”

When you do this, the client feels heard and understood. It also sets you up to position radio in a very specific role:

“That’s exactly where our station can help. We can use radio to reach more people like your best customers and make sure your name is top-of-mind before they go online.”
“We can build a weekday-focused radio plan that supports your digital offers and invites people in when you need them most.”

Now, you’re not asking them to “buy a schedule.” You are inviting them to invest in a solution tied directly to the problem they just confirmed.

Keep your questions handy.

If you’re used to more traditional sales calls, this may feel like a lot to remember. One simple way to start is to build a short question checklist you bring on every appointment. For example:

Goals: “What are you trying to accomplish in the next 6–12 months?”
Customers: “Who do you most want to reach?”
Challenges: “What’s getting in the way of those goals?”
Marketing: “What are you doing now, online and offline, and what’s working?”

If you cover those four areas before you talk about schedules, you are already behaving more like a marketing resource than a spot seller. Over time, these questions become second nature—and so does the consultative conversation.

In Part 3, we’ll look at how to turn what you learn in these conversations into smarter campaigns, better follow-up, and long-term relationships that make you an indispensable partner to your advertisers. Marc can be reached at 410-295-6619 x11 or mgreenspan@ResearchDirectorInc.com to begin the conversation.

This article is part two of a three-part series from CEO Marc Greenspan. Part 1 can be found here.

Radio Ratings Roundup, March 2026, Part IV

April 23, 2026

Filed Under: Hot Topics

The Ratings Experts from RESEARCH DIRECTOR, INC.—with a healthy assist from the playmakers at XTRENDS—bring you our fourth, and final, installment of the MARCH survey.

This one ran from MARCH 5^th through APRIL 1^st. We messed with the construct of time, survived the vernal equinox, and witnessed the first day of PASSOVER. Did you also know that the month features “What if Cats and Dogs Had Opposable Thumbs Day,” “International Fanny Pack Day,” and, for those who celebrate, “Corn Dog Day.” There was a lot of stuff to deal with during this time frame, but we’re laser focused on the radio ratings reality. Which went something like this:

TAMPA-ST. PETERSBURG-CLEARWATER: It’s A Dove’s World

This was a great month to be COX MEDIA Soft AC WDUV (101.5 THE DOVE). The station was #1 6+ for the second book in a row and posted its largest Frosty-free share in over a year (8.6-9.8). RADIO TRAINING NETWORK Contemporary Christian WCIE (THE JOY FM) was back at #2 but with its lowest score since OCTOBER (7.3-7.0). COX MEDIA Classic Hits WXGL (107.3 THE EAGLE) repeated at #3 (6.5-6.5), while BEASLEY Classic Hits WRBQ (Q105) remained at #4 with its fourth up book in a row (5.5-5.9). iHEARTMEDIA Active Rock WXTB (98 ROCK) leapt from #8 to #5 with its highest share since APRIL (4.9-5.7). COX MEDIA AC WWRM (MAGIC 94.9) dipped to #6 (5.3-5.1). WDUV was still the cume leader (653,500-655,100)—a 0.2% increase. The market was up by 1.8%.

WDUV made it back-to-back 25-54 wins with, again, its highest Frosty-free share in over a year. WXTB rose from #6 to #2 with its best showing in a year. WRBQ stepped down to #3 as it ended a three-book surge. iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR WFLZ (93.3 FLZ) dipped to #4 as it stopped a five-book surge. WCIE was down to #5 and was met there by WWRM, which moved up a slot despite landing its fourth straight down book. iHEARTMEDIA AC WMTX (MIX 100.7) slipped two places to #7.

WDUV moved up to #1 18-34 with a double-digit share. WFLZ vacated the double-digit space as it moved down to #2. WXTB vaulted from #8 to #3 with its best book in over a year. WCIE rose two places to #4 with its highest mark since NOVEMBER. WXGL repeated at #5 and was paired with WWRM, which dropped from #3. WMTX slid from #4 into a tie at #8 with COX MEDIA Urban AC WTBV (101.5 THE VIBE).

WDUV completed the demo sweep as it remained #1 18-49 while landing its largest share—aided or unaided by performance enhancing music—in over a year. WXTB continued its MARCH march as it advanced from #6 to #2. WFLZ dipped to #3, while WCIE stepped down to #4. WWRM and WMTX were previously tied at #4. They slid to #5 and #6, respectively:

DENVER-BOULDER: Rocky Mountain Way

AUDACY Classic Rock KQMT (99.5 THE MOUNTAIN) was back as the leading 6+ station (7.0-7.1). However, #2 BONNEVILLE AC KOSI (KOSI 101.1) crept closer to the leader (6.7-7.0). KSE MEDIA VENTURES Classic Hits KXKL (KOOL 105) was up two slots to #3 (5.0-5.2), while AUDACY Modern AC KALC (ALICE 105.9) repeated at #4 (5.1-4.9). BONNEVILLE Country KYGO SLIPPED TO #5 (5.3-4.8). KOSI still had the most cume (490,500-506,600)—a 3.3% increase. The market was up 0.7%.

iHEARTMEDIA Alternative KTCL (CHANNEL 93.3) and KQMT were still #1 and #2, respectively, 25-54. Both stations had down books and were separated by a half share. KALC remained at #3 with a slight increase and was paired with KOSI, which was up a spot with a small share gain. A flat KXKL held steady at #5. KSE MEDIA VENTURES Sports KKSE (ALTITUDE SPORTS RADIO 92.5FM) fell from #6 to #16 last month. The station rebounded and moved back up to #6. It was tied with AUDACY Rhythmic CHR KQKS (KS 107.5).

ENTRAVISION Mexican Regional KXPK (LA TRICOLOR 96.5) landed its largest 18-34 share since SEPTEMBER as it stepped up to #1. KOSI leapt from #5 to #2 as it halted a three-book slide. A flat KXKL slipped from #1 to #3. It was paired with KQKS, which stepped down from #2 despite bouncing back from a down book. Three stations were huddled together at #5. KQMT remained in place with a small share loss. KYGO moved up from #8 with a slight increase, while COLORADO PUBLIC RADIO N/T KCFR advanced from #10 with its best book in over a year. KTCL dropped from a tie at #5 to #8, while KSE MEDIA VENTURES Hot AC KIMN (MIX 100) fell from #2 to #12 with its smallest share in over a year.

KQKS ended a two-book slide as it jumped from #5 to #1 18-49. KOSI and KALC were last seen at #2. KOSI held steady with a slight increase, while KALC dipped to #3 with a slight decrease. KKSE again rebounded from a down book as it rose from #12 to #4. KXKL and KXPK moved from #7 and #8, respectively, up to a tie at #5. Three stations were massed together at #8. KTCL dropped from #1 with its lowest total in over a year. KQMT slid from #4 as it returned a portion of last month’s large increase. KCFR was up from #11, again with its highest mark in over a year. KIMN fell from #5 to #13 and was tied with EMF Contemporary Christian KLDV (K-LOVE).

SAN DIEGO: Do You Believe In Magic

You should, because LOCAL MEDIA Rhythmic AC XHRM (MAGIC 92.5) jumped from #3 to #1 6+ with its best outing in over a year (6.7-7.9). This pushed SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY N/T KPBS down to #2 (8.1-7.6). AUDACY Classic Hits KXSN (SUNNY 98.1) dipped to #3 with its smallest share in over a year (7.7-7.4). AUDACY AC KYXY remained at #4 with its third straight down book (6.3-6.0). iHEARTMEDIA Hot AC KMYI (STAR 94.1) was up two places to #5 (4.5-4.7), while iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR KHTS (CHANNEL 93.3) slid two places to #7 (4.9-4.1). KXSN remained the cume leader despite a 2.0% drop (603,500-591,200). The market was up 0.5%.

XHRM was also hot 25-54 as it went from #3 to #1 with, again, its best book in over a year. KXSN dipped to #2 and was about a half share off the lead. LOCAL MEDIA Alternative XTRA (91X) repeated at #3 with a slight decrease, while iHEARTMEDIA Active Rock KIOZ (ROCK 105.3) stepped up to #4 with a slight increase. KHTS dropped from #2 to #5 as it returned about half of last month’s strong increase. KYXY was down a spot to #6 with a slight decrease.

A flat KXSN moved up to #1 18-34. This ended the four-book winning streak for KYXY, three of which were in double figures. The station was down to #2 where it was met by XHRM, which rose from #5 its highest mark since MAY. XTRA was back at #4 with its third straight up book, while two stations ran headlong into each other at #5. KMYI slipped from #3, while iHEARTMEDIA Urban Contemporary KSSX (JAM’N 95.7) was up from #8 with its best showing in over a year.

At the risk of being redundant XHRM went from #3 to #1 18-49 with its fifth up book in a row. This halted the two-book winning string for KXSN, which was relegated to #2. KIOZ moved up two places to #3 with a small increase, while a flat XTRA made it up to #4. Both stations had been tied at #5. KHTS was also at #4, down from #3, while KYXY fell from #2 to #6 with its smallest share since NOVEMBER.

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CHARLOTTE-GASTONIA-ROCK HILL: Special K

For the second book in a row, BEASLEY Classic Hits WKQC (K104.7) was #1 6+. The station landed its largest Frosty-free share since JULY (7.9-8.1). IHEARTMEDIA Adult Hits WLKO (102.9 THE LAKE) stood alone at #2 but with its best book—Frosty-free or otherwise—in over a year (6.3-7.9). BEASLEY Urban Contemporary WPEG (POWER 98) dipped to #3 but with its fifth straight up book (6.3-7.4). UNIVERSITY RADIO FOUNDATION N/T WFAE rebounded from a down book to move up to #4 (5.7-6.2). iHEARTMEDIA Country WKKT (96.9 THE KAT) was stationary at #5 (6.0-6.0). URBAN ONE Urban Oldies WOSF (106.5 RnB) fell from #4 to #12 with its lowest score in over a year (6.1-3.9). It was partnered with iHEARTMEDIA Alternative WEND (106.5 THE END), which held steady (4.1-3.9) and iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR WHQC (HITS 96.1), which was up from #16 (3.1-3.9). WLKO kept its cume lead with a 0.4% increase (470,000-472,100). The market was up 0.3%.

WPEG repeated as the 25-54 champ and surpassed the double-digit mark. WLKO vaulted from #6 to #2 but was nearly four shares off the pace. WKQC stepped up to #3 with a small share loss, while WEND dipped to #4 with a larger share decrease. It was tied with WKKT, which inched up from #5, also with a down book. WFAE jumped from #10 to #6, while WOSF fell from #2 to #7 with its smallest share since JULY.

WPEG hit double figures 18-34 for the second book in a row and this time that was enough to propel the station to #1. WLKO rose from #5 to #2 and was dangerously close to hitting double digits. BEASLEY Pop CHR WNKS (KISS 95.1) repeated at #3 but with its fourth consecutive down book. WKQC stepped up to #4 with its highest mark in over a year, while two stations settled in at #5. WHQC was there last time while iHEARTMEDIA Classic Rock WRFX (99.7 THE FOX) advanced from #8 with its best number in exactly a year. Last month BEASLEY Urban AC WBAV (V101.9) was #1 with a large double-digit share. The station ceded more than half its previous number as it dropped to #7. WOSF fell from #4 to #9.

WPEG was #1 and in double digits 18-49 for the second book in a row. WNKS repeated at #2 with a small increase. Three stations, last seen at #7 moved up and into the top five. WLKO landed at #3 as it bounced back from a down book. WFAE and WHQC made it to #4 with solid increases. WEND dipped to #6 as it returned most of last month’s increase. It was paired with the motionless WKQC, which had a down book. WBAV and WOSF were previously #2 and #4, respectively. They fell into a tie at #9 along with BEASLEY Country WSOC (COUNTRY 103.7).

NASSAU-SUFFOLK (LONG ISLAND): Three WINS In A Row

As the headline says, this was the third straight first place 6+ finish for AUDACY News WINS (1010 WINS) (10.6-8.9). iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR WHTZ (Z100) had its best showing since NOVEMBER as it moved up two places to #2 (5.5-6.9). RED APPLE MEDIA N/T WABC-A dipped to #3 (6.0-6.1), while AUDACY Sports WFAN (SPORTS RADIO 101.9FM/66AM) was up to #4 with its highest offensive output since OCTOBER (4.5-5.6). CONNOISSEUR Hot AC WALK (WALK FM) slipped to #5 (5.7-5.3), while COX MEDIA Pop CHR WBLI moved down to #7 (4.8-4.2). WINS was still the top cuming station despite a 1.6% drop (424,300-417,700). The market was up 0.5%.

WHTZ stepped up to #1 25-54 and was awfully close to hitting double figures. This stopped the three-book winning streak for WALK, which moved down to #2 with a slight decrease. Despite a down book WBLI went from #5 to #3. AUDACY Hot AC WNEW (NEW 102.7) was up two spots to #4 with a slight increase, while iHEARTMEDIA AC WLTW (106.7 LITE FM) went from #7 to #5 with its best Frosty-free share in over a year. WFAN vaulted from #11 to #6. WINS dropped from #3 into a tie at #7 with WABC-A. AUDACY Classic Hits WCBS fell from #4 into a partnership arrangement at #9 with COX MEDIA Classic Rock WBAB.

WINS vaulted from #4 to #1 18-34 with its highest total in over a year. This pushed a flat WBLI to #2. WALK repeated at #3 but with its third straight down book. It was paired with WHTZ, which moved up from #4 with a solid increase. Also coming in at #3 was CONNOISSEUR AC WKJY (K-JOY 98.3), which advanced from #8 with its best outing since OCTOBER. WNEW fell from #4 to #10, while WCBS dropped from #1 to #13, shedding well more than half its previous share in the process.

WHTZ had its best 18-49 book since NOVEMBER as it seized control of the demo. WALK dipped to #2 and was about two shares off the pace. WNEW and WBLI traded places as the former moved up to #3 with a slight decrease, while the latter was down to #4, thus ending a four-book surge. WINS was also at #4, moving up a spot despite a small share loss.

Another book bites the dust. Thank you for participating. See you in four weeks for the APRIL survey. In the meantime, pass only on the left.

About XTrends: XTrends is radio’s favorite tool for reviewing ratings. Click here to see why all of radio’s major groups love XTrends!

As always, The Ratings Experts from RESEARCH DIRECTOR, INC. are ready to help you grow your ratings and revenue. Click the link below to get the gruesome details.

e-mail info@ResearchDirectorInc.com or sallan@ResearchDirectorInc.com.

Radio Ratings Roundup, March 2026, Part III

April 22, 2026

Filed Under: Hot Topics

We’re back with another exciting episode of “Famous Marches in History.” There’s Frederick March, Little Peggy March and, who can forget, Paul March. We could include the March Hare or the march of the wooden soldiers but that might be stretching this bit a bridge too far.

The Ratings Experts from RESEARCH DIRECTOR, INC.—marching side by side with the number’s crunchers from XTRENDS—are here with more MARCH news. Specifically, the monthly survey under that name. It began on MARCH 5^th and concluded on APRIL 1^st. We experienced a needless time change and a much-needed seasonal change. The book also ended on the first day of PASSOVER. Here’s where we spill the tea…

MIAMI-FT. LAUDERDALE-HOLLYWOOD: Same As It Ever Was

I thought we’d start off with a little ear worm. The top four spots on the 6+ leaderboard were unchanged from the previous survey, and all four stations had down books. COX MEDIA Urban AC WHQT (HOT 105) was back at #1 (7.2-6.7), while COX MEDIA AC WFEZ (EASY 93.1) remained at #2 but with its smallest share since JUNE (7.0-6.3). AUDACY AC WLYF (101.5 LITE FM) repeated at #3 (6.3-6.0), while TELEVISAUNIVISION Spanish Hot AC WAMR (AMOR 107.5) held firm at #4 (6.2-5.7). The two stations previously spied at #5 had up books. SBS Spanish Contemporary WCMQ (Z92.3) stood alone at that spot (5.1-5.5), while AUDACY Classic Hits WMXJ (102.7 THE BEACH) dipped to #6 (5.1-5.4). WLYF rode a 2.6% increase to #1 in the cume wars (779,700-800,000). The market was up 1.2%.

There was quite a foundational change in the 25-54 space. For the first time in over a year WFEZ was not the #1 station. It dipped to #2 with its lowest score in over a year. Your new leader was WHQT, which had a slight increase. The gap between those two stations was very small. iHEARTMEDIA Spanish Adult Hits WMIA (MAGIC 93.9) vaulted from #8 to #3 as it recovered from a couple of down books. WLYF stepped down to #4 thus ending a four-book surge. COX MEDIA Rhythmic AC WFLC (HITS 97.3) was down to #5 but with a small share gain. WMXJ slipped into a tie at #6 with WCMQ.

For the fourth book in a row COX MEDIA Urban Contemporary WEDR (99 JAMZ) was the leading 18-34 station. WCMQ and SBS Spanish Tropical WXDJ (EL ZOL 106.7 FM) were previously sighted at #4. WCMQ rose to #2 with its highest score in over a year, while WXDJ made it to #3 with its best book since DECEMBER. WFLC rocketed from #9 up to #4. In the HOLIDAY book it was sitting at #18. iHEARTMEDIA Urban Contemporary WMIB (103.5 THE BEAT) slipped to #5 as it returned all of last month’s substantial share gain. WHQT fell from #2 to #6 as it, too, surrendered last month’s increase. It was paired with WMIA, which rose from #12 with its best outing in over a year. WAMR dropped from #4 to #9 as it gave back most of last month’s increase. It was tied with AUDACY Classic Hip Hop WPOW (POWER 96), which arrived from #14.

The top five 18-49 were separated by less than a share. WFLC jumped from #4 to #1 with its third up book in a row. WHQT repeated at #2 with a small share loss, while WCMQ advanced from #7 to #3 with its highest mark in over a year. WFEZ went from first to fourth as its six-book winning string came to an end. WMIA leapt from #10 to #5, also with its best performance in over a year. WPOW slipped to #6 with a slight decrease. WLYF dropped four places to #7 and was partnered with WEDR and WXDJ.

SEATTLE-TACOMA: Marching On

For the third book in a row, and 13^th time in the last 14 surveys, UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON N/T KUOW was #1 6+ (9.5-8.4). FRIENDS OF KEXP Alternative KEXP rose from #5 to #2 with its fourth up book in a row (4.7-6.3). iHEARTMEDIA Classic Hits KJEB (95.7 THE JET) descended to #3 (5.6-5.6), while CRISTA Contemporary Christian KCMS (SPIRIT 105.3) stepped down to #4 (5.4-5.0). HUBBARD AC KRWM (WARM 106.9) was up to #5 (4.6-4.9), while AUDACY Active Rock KISW (THE ROCK) slipped to #6 with its smallest share since JULY (5.1-4.7). It was tied with BONNEVILLE Sports KIRO-A (SEATTLE SPORTS 710AM), which arrived from #10 as it rebounded from a down book (3.8-4.7). Despite a 0.9% decrease KRWM remained in cume control (613,200-607,800). The market was off by 0.6%.

KEXP was #1 25-54 for the third straight survey and landed in double-digit territory. KISW was back at #2 but with its lowest score in over a year. The gap between the two stations grew to almost five full shares. KUOW repeated at #3 but with its lowest total since OCTOBER. It was joined there by KJEB, which flew in from #7 as it recovered from a down book. AUDACY Alternative KNDD (107.7 THE END) dipped to #5 despite a slight increase. HUBBARD Pop CHR KQMV (MOViN’ 92.5) and KCMS were formerly partners at #5. KQMV stepped down to #6, while KCMS dropped into a tie at #7 with KIRO-A, which was up from #12.

KQMV doubled its previous 18-34 share as it vaulted from #8 to #1. It held a half share advantage over KJEB, which ascended from #5 to #2 with its best outing in over a year. This ended the two-book winning streak for KISW, which drifted down to #3. KNDD bounced back from a down book but still slipped two slots to #4. Three stations were languishing at #5. AUDACY Hot AC KSWD (EMMA 94.1) remained in place as it returned a portion of last month’s solid share increase. AUDACY Country KKWF (100.7 THE WOLF) slid from #3, while AUDACY Rhythmic AC KHTP (HOT 103.7) rose from #10 with its highest score in over a year. iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR KBKS (HITS 106.1) dropped from #3 to #8 with its lowest total in over a year. It was tied with five other stations.

As recently as DECEMBER, KEXP was #12 18-49. The station has tripled its share since then and just landed its third straight #1 book. KQMV jumped from #4 to #2 but was still about three shares off the pace. It narrowly edged out KJEB, which climbed from #8 to #3 as it regained all of last month’s lost share. A flat KNDD repeated at #4. KUOW and KISW were last seen at #2 and #3, respectively. They fell together into a tie at #5.

PHOENIX: The Heat Is On

There was iHEARTMEDIA AC KESZ (99.9 KEZ) cruising to its sixth 6+ win in a row. However, the station landed its lowest share since SEPTEMBER (8.0-6.7) and suddenly the race tightened significantly. HUBBARD Classic Rock KSLX was now a very close #2 (6.8-6.6). AUDACY Classic Hits KOOL (BIG 94.5) moved up to #3 with its best outing in over a year (4.5-5.9). iHEARTMEDIA N/T KFYI-A dipped to #4 despite posting its largest share in over a year (4.6-5.0). Last month’s threesome at #4 was no more. iHEARTMEDIA Country KNIX dipped to #5 (4.5-4.6). iHEARTMEDIA Adult Hits KYOT (95.5 THE MOUNTAIN) drifted down to #6 (4.5-4.3), while MARICOPA COMMUNITY COLLEGE Classical KBAQ (KBACH CLASSICAL 89.5FM) fell to #9 (4.5-3.7). Despite a 4.1% decline KESZ still had the most cume (1,007,700-965,500). The market grew by 1.6%.

KESZ was down 25-54 for the third straight survey but still won its seventh book in a row. TELEVISAUNIVISION Mexican Regional KHOT (QUÉ BUENA 105.9) was back at #2 and a share off the pace. ENTRAVISION Mexican Regional KLNZ (LA TRICOLOR 103.5) stepped up to #3 with its best book in over a year. KYOT dipped to #4 with a slight increase, while KOOL inched up to #5 with a small share gain. KSLX dipped to #6 and was tied with iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR KZZP (104.7 KISS FM), which had its best showing in over a year.

Speaking of which, AUDACY Pop CHR KALV (LIVE 101.5) accomplished the same feat as it rose from #6 to #1 18-34. KYOT stepped up to #2 with its third straight up book, while KHOT remained behind at #3. This ended the four-book run at #1 for KESZ, which dropped to #4. It was paired with KZZP, which advanced from #10. KOOL stepped down to #6 with its lowest score since DECEMBER. HUBBARD Alternative KDKB (ALT AZ 93.3) fell from #2 to #9 and was tied with iHEARTMEDIA Hot AC KMXP (MIX 96.9).

In FEBRUARY KHOT and KESZ were tied at #1 18-49. Both stations had down books though KHOT remained in first place while KESZ dropped to #2. KLNZ was back at #3 with its third up book in a row. KOOL remained at #4 but was joined there by KALV, which turned it up from #11. KSLX dropped from #5 to #9 as it returned all of last month’s increase, plus a bit extra.

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DETROIT: The Song Remains The Same

There was very little change atop the 6+ leaderboard this survey. AUDACY Sports WXYT (97.1 THE TICKET) was #1 for the third book in a row (8.6-9.0). AUDACY Classic Hits WOMC was back at #2 (7.7-7.3), while iHEARTMEDIA AC WNIC remained at #3 but with its best Frosty-free share since OCTOBER (6.3-7.0). AUDACY Country WYCD landed its largest share in over a year as it stepped up to #4 (5.5-6.3). iHEARTMEDIA Urban AC WMXD (MIX 92.3) dipped to #5 (6.1-5.9). WNIC was essentially flat as it kept the cume crown (983,600-983,400). The market was basically flat, as well.

WXYT was #1 and in double figures 25-54 for the third straight survey. iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR WKQI (CHANNEL 955) was up two places to #2 with its best outing in over a year. Still, it was more than four shares off the lead. iHEARTMEDIA Urban Contemporary WJLB moved up to #3, also with its highest share in over a year. WOMC slipped to #4 as it ended a robust five-book surge. BEASLEY Active Rock WRIF was down to #5 with its lowest score in over a year.

WKQI was #1 18-34 for the third book in a row and WJLB was back at #2. Both stations reached double figures this month. WXYT repeated at #3 with a slight increase but was well behind the top two stations. WOMC remained at #4, while AUDACY Alternative WDZH (ALT 98.7) held steady at #5. Both stations had slight decreases.

WXYT was a dominant #1 18-49 for the third book in a row. WKQI stepped up to #2 with its highest mark in exactly a year. WJLB inched up to #3 with its third straight up book. WOMC slipped to #4 as it surrendered last month’s increase. WNIC worked it from #9 to #5 as it ended a two-book slide. WRIF went from #5 into a tie at #7 with WMXD.

MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL: Too Close To Call

We don’t need the ABS system to call this one. iHEARTMEDIA Sports KFXN (KFAN FM 100.3) moved back up to #1 6+ (7.3-7.3). This pushed MPR N/T KNOW down to #2 (7.7-7.2), though the station did add a 1.0 share from cyberspace. iHEARTMEDIA Classic Hits KQQL (KOOL 108) repeated at #3 (7.2-6.9), while HUBBARD Hot AC KSTP (KS95) was back at #4 (7.1-6.7). iHEARTMEDIA Country KEEY (K102) stepped up to #5 with its best book in over a year (5.8-6.3). UNIVERSITY OF NORTHWESTERN-ST. PAUL Contemporary Christian KTIS dipped to #6 (6.2-5.9). KQQL padded its cume lead by 6.6% (632,500-674,200). The market was up 2.2%.

KFXN was #1 25-54 for the third book in a row and in double figures for the 13^th time in the last 14 surveys. MPR AAA KCMP (89.3 THE CURRENT) stepped up to #2 as it bounced back from a down book. It was two shares behind the leader. KQQL moved down to #3 with a small decrease. iHEARTMEDIA Pop CHR KDWB and AUDACY Adult Hits KZJK (104.1 JACK FM) remained tied at #4 with noticeable share losses.

Last month KCMP and KQQL were tied atop the 18-34 leaderboard. KCMP experienced a small share loss but remained in first place, while KQQL drifted down to #2 with a much larger decrease. KFXN remained at #3 but with its sixth straight down book. iHEARTMEDIA Hot AC KTCZ (CITIES 97.1) inched up to #4 with its highest score since NOVEMBER. KZJK dipped to #5 with its smallest share in over a year. It was paired with KTIS, which rose from #7 with a modest increase.

KFXN extended a couple of 18-49 streaks. The station was #1 for the third book in a row and hit double figures for the ninth straight survey. KCMP returned as the #2 station as it regained all of last month’s share loss. KQQL repeated at #3 with a modest share loss, while KDWB was back at #4 but a much larger share decrease. KZJK held on at #5 though with its lowest total since AUGUST. It was joined there by a flat KTCZ, which rose from #7.

In case you were wondering, Paul March was, apparently, a famous British rugby player. Who knew. We do know we have one more block of markets to dissect. Stay tuned for TAMPA, DENVER, SAN DIEGO, CHARLOTTE, and NASSAU-SUFFOLK.

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