Air America Radio Continues to Grow
Network inks new multiyear deals with hosts Al Franken, Randi Rhodes
Progressive talk radio continues to grow at an impressive pace. Not only has the network inked deals to keep its major stars on board, but it has $13 million in new financing. And it's launching a new station in Washington D.C., the Washington Post reports. Additionally, Air America is supposed to be close to launching a station in Los Angeles.
An industry expert:
"Air America has been something of a phenomenon," said Michael Harrison, editor of the industry magazine Talkers. "Their accomplishment has to be measured in more than revenue and ratings. They've had a tremendous impact on changing the culture of talk radio and the way talk radio is perceived by the public. They've really opened the door to major industry licensees and program producers recognizing that talk radio has a huge potential market beyond just conservative hosts."
The Air America release:
Air America Radio (AAR) today announced new long-term contract extensions for its highly rated radio personalities Al Franken and Randi Rhodes, and new affiliate clearances in a number of top markets across the country. The network is now heard in 11 of the top 20 radio markets.
The network also announced that $13 million in new investment had been completed.
AAR was launched March 31, 2004 in five markets, and in just eight months has expanded to 40 stations nationwide, as well as both SIRIUS and XM, the national satellite radio services. This represents unprecedented growth in modern network radio.
AAR also announced that Rob Glaser has been elected chairman of the Air America Network Board. Glaser is CEO and chairman of RealNetworks Inc., a consumer technology company he founded.
"Air America has created the hottest new brand on radio, offering some of the most dynamic personalities and programming found anywhere on the radio dial," Glaser said. "As a result of the long-term foundation we have built, we will continue to be the leader in this format."
Al Franken, comedian and best-selling author who hosts AAR's highly rated "The Al Franken Show," signed a multi-year contract with the network, reinforcing his commitment and desire to remain a dominant voice in talk radio.
Franken and his co-host, radio veteran Katherine Lanpher, will continue to deliver three hours a day of fearlessly irreverent commentary, comedy and interviews.
"I have re-signed with Air America in order to spend less time with my family," quipped Franken.
Randi Rhodes, host of "The Randi Rhodes Show," also agreed to a three-year deal. Rhodes has emerged as one of the most powerful voices in radio and continues to bring her own brand of impeccably researched and infectiously humorous talk to Air America.
"With the new funding and our contracts signed, sealed and delivered, Air America has proven its ability to attract talent and investors," Rhodes said. "That ROCKS. So now let's ROLL."
Air America Radio plans to announce additional affiliates in major markets early in the new year.
"In my 25 years in radio, I have never seen a brand grow so quickly," said Jon Sinton, president of Air America. "These announcements today serve notice that the remarkable growth of Air America will continue in 2005."
Doug Kreeger, acting chief executive officer since May and a major investor and board member since the network's inception, steps down as acting CEO as planned. Kreeger, who continues as an active board member, also takes on the roles of adviser to the company and member of the search team seeking a permanent CEO.
Progressive talk radio continues to grow at an impressive pace. Not only has the network inked deals to keep its major stars on board, but it has $13 million in new financing. And it's launching a new station in Washington D.C., the Washington Post reports. Additionally, Air America is supposed to be close to launching a station in Los Angeles.
An industry expert:
"Air America has been something of a phenomenon," said Michael Harrison, editor of the industry magazine Talkers. "Their accomplishment has to be measured in more than revenue and ratings. They've had a tremendous impact on changing the culture of talk radio and the way talk radio is perceived by the public. They've really opened the door to major industry licensees and program producers recognizing that talk radio has a huge potential market beyond just conservative hosts."
The Air America release:
Air America Radio (AAR) today announced new long-term contract extensions for its highly rated radio personalities Al Franken and Randi Rhodes, and new affiliate clearances in a number of top markets across the country. The network is now heard in 11 of the top 20 radio markets.
The network also announced that $13 million in new investment had been completed.
AAR was launched March 31, 2004 in five markets, and in just eight months has expanded to 40 stations nationwide, as well as both SIRIUS and XM, the national satellite radio services. This represents unprecedented growth in modern network radio.
AAR also announced that Rob Glaser has been elected chairman of the Air America Network Board. Glaser is CEO and chairman of RealNetworks Inc., a consumer technology company he founded.
"Air America has created the hottest new brand on radio, offering some of the most dynamic personalities and programming found anywhere on the radio dial," Glaser said. "As a result of the long-term foundation we have built, we will continue to be the leader in this format."
Al Franken, comedian and best-selling author who hosts AAR's highly rated "The Al Franken Show," signed a multi-year contract with the network, reinforcing his commitment and desire to remain a dominant voice in talk radio.
Franken and his co-host, radio veteran Katherine Lanpher, will continue to deliver three hours a day of fearlessly irreverent commentary, comedy and interviews.
"I have re-signed with Air America in order to spend less time with my family," quipped Franken.
Randi Rhodes, host of "The Randi Rhodes Show," also agreed to a three-year deal. Rhodes has emerged as one of the most powerful voices in radio and continues to bring her own brand of impeccably researched and infectiously humorous talk to Air America.
"With the new funding and our contracts signed, sealed and delivered, Air America has proven its ability to attract talent and investors," Rhodes said. "That ROCKS. So now let's ROLL."
Air America Radio plans to announce additional affiliates in major markets early in the new year.
"In my 25 years in radio, I have never seen a brand grow so quickly," said Jon Sinton, president of Air America. "These announcements today serve notice that the remarkable growth of Air America will continue in 2005."
Doug Kreeger, acting chief executive officer since May and a major investor and board member since the network's inception, steps down as acting CEO as planned. Kreeger, who continues as an active board member, also takes on the roles of adviser to the company and member of the search team seeking a permanent CEO.
