Re: Layoffs at WCVB??

[Larry Stanton <pluto@4motion.org>]

> On another front that is related to this list, a research study I was just
> reading about radio listening indicates that consolidation may be great for
> making conglomerates wealthy, but it seems to be driving away 12-24 adults
> (the youthful generation needed to ensure that new cume occurs), especially
> young males-- this demographic has begun to reject radio entirely,
> according to the report.  Most common complaints (and explanations for why
> they don't listen as much any more) are 'radio today has too many
> commercials and too much mindless talk'; even young females are no longer
> feeling they can relate to what they are hearing on the air and no longer
> are loyal to one station, according to the study, contents of which were
> summarised in "Inside Radio Fax."

Well, I am in the aforementioned demographic. I listened to WFNX, fairly
loyally, until things began to unwravel for them about 3-5 years ago. Now
I'm waiting for satellite radio to (hopefully) save the day. I spend
enough time in my car that I can justify the $10 a month. The BS on the FM
dial is maddening for me, as a music and radio enthusiast. Anyways.. back
to FNX.. the funny thing about FNX is that for years they championed
themselves as the underdog radio station and made jibes at 'BCN and the
other 'dinosaur' rock stations (AAF, ZLX, etc.). Then 'BCN hired some
ex-FNX talent and tweaked their format WAY down in terms of demographics.
Next thing you know FNX has the "dirt rock" format (heavy rotation of
rock and roll that appeals to 15 year olds and frat boys) and a new
morning team comprised of, how to put it nicely... idiot "tits and ass"
mongers with contrived, overly deep radio voices trying their best to
be Howard Stern. You don't have to be sophisticated to realize what a
joke this is, I think even the younger crowd realizes it's nothing more
than a sad mockery and money grab. Nowadays I burn my own CD's for the
car, and as I said, wait patiently for satellite radio. If satellite
radio pans out, FM will -never- have me back. Bye bye, Clear Channel;
sleep tight, Infinity. And to all the local owners wrecking their
formats to compete with the conglomerates..shut the lights off on your
way out.

Larry