Bruuuuuuuuce
I’ve never been a huge Springsteen fan, but I know some of you are. Clearchannel is telling their stations not to play his new record.
A blog with delusions of grandeur.
I’ve never been a huge Springsteen fan, but I know some of you are. Clearchannel is telling their stations not to play his new record.
clearchannel has ruined radio. don’t get me started.
OK, I’ve consulted Wikipedia for some help in my statistics. In 1992, the government (FCC) relaxed radio ownership rules. Until 1992, a company could only own up to two stations per market. Clear Channel took advantage (as any good company might) of this relaxed policy. Within 3 years, they owned 43 radio stations and 16 TV stations. Then in 1996, something called the Telecommunications Act was passed, allowing companies to own/run even more stations. They expanded their ownership to 1200 (yes one thousand and two hundred) radio stations around the country. Thus destroying local radio. When they decide a song is bad, it is banned on 1200 radio stations. I do not know what % of radio stations and other entertainment (TV, etc) they own of total in the US. I also know that recently they have been selling some of their assets. There are other large companies also responsible for this problem - Infinity Broadcasting is another. What I do know is that ownership of so many radio stations around the country greatly contributed to a loss of regional individuality. In addition, they destroyed historically local progressive and passionate radio stations. There used to be a culture following radio personalities - as a kid, I knew every DJ on my local station - I knew what their favorite music was, when their shows were on - I listened religiously - I personally watched that radio station be eaten alive by large corporate takeover. In conclusion of this rant, I would have to blame the government for relaxing regulations, but the companies for being super-companies and good at business????? Ugh.
I’m not an enormous Springsteen fan (sorry, Leigh), but this whole thing really makes me want to buy his album.