"It's the programming, stupid!"

[Donna Halper]

On 5/19/2012 2:15 AM, Kevin Vahey wrote:
> Those of us who are 50 or older know what AM is and what it used to mean.
>
> PPM for better or worse is really hurting stations like WBZ-AM where the
> cume is dropping like a rock.
>    

I am also surprised that AM broadcasters have not done a better job 
lobbying for their own interests.  Years ago, the NAB used to stand up 
for small and local radio owners, but increasingly (and Bob & I used to 
discuss this when he still broadcast "Let's Talk About Radio"), the NAB 
represents the interests of the Clear Channels and other big 
corporations.  WBZ is not exactly a "little guy" but my point is that 
there's no longer much interest in defending AM radio.  FM certainly has 
technological advantages, but too many FMs have continued the 
programming sins and excesses (like long commercial breaks, too many 
syndicated shows you can hear anywhere, little local presence in the 
market) that helped to drive people away from AM in the first place.