SEARCH DATE RANGE

SEARCH TERM OR WORD

New research has found that UK commercial radio stations increased their commitment to news and information significantly in the months since lockdown began, broadcasting 25% more news bulletins on average that last 28% longer.

These findings form part of a new report from Radiocentre, the industry body for commercial radio, which examines how the sector responded to the coronavirus pandemic not only by continuing to provide vital public value output to its 36 million listeners, but actually increasing the provision of essential news and information.

Commercial Radio: A force for good found that, since the Covid-19 outbreak, stations’ commitment to news coverage increased, despite the relaxation of formal requirements by communications regulator Ofcom. On average, news bulletins have increased both in frequency (25% more) and duration (28% longer) across the industry. By providing more news, more often, commercial radio is providing significant value to audiences, with additional news coverage and bulletins across the day, as well as special coverage of Government daily news briefings and breaking news.

The report also highlights how commercial radio has been an important vehicle for delivering essential Government messages, both through its news bulletins and public health information ads. With messages changing rapidly, radio has proved an extremely valuable tool to help deliver up-to-the-minute information to huge audiences, often reaching demographics that are harder to reach through other media.

Recent research from the Reuters Institute also highlighted the low levels of news avoidance for radio during the pandemic, when compared to news on TV, newspaper brands and social media.

Commercial radio also delivers a broad range of public value to listeners across the country, with around 10 hours per week on average of news and sport, travel, weather, local events and charity appeals. Commercial Radio: A force for good highlights case studies and initiatives from broadcasters, covering charity and community work, mental health support, championing diversity and key workers, help for local business and more.

Stations have been quick to help those most impacted by the devastating economic impact of the lockdown. Bauer’s national children’s charity, Cash for Kids, launched an urgent appeal for families most at need as a result of school closures which will disproportionally impact the most disadvantaged families. Global’s Make Some Noise charity also launched an Emergency Appeal across all of its stations which raised £1.7m in a single day on 19 June.

A number of stations have sought to support businesses at this time by working with local partners on schemes to provide donations of airtime and highlight their activities.  For example, Jack FM in Oxford launched a £100,000 advertising campaign fund for small businesses and charities with a series of airtime grants; Chester’s Dee 106.3 donated commercial advertising airtime to local charities and support groups, even producing their promotional ads for them free of charge; Asian Sound Radio is offering airtime and promotions to kick-start local businesses across the Manchester and East Lancashire region.

Siobhan Kenny, Radiocentre CEO, said: “Despite the recent challenges, commercial radio has continued to deliver significant value for audiences, not only in terms of even stronger news and information output, but also in broader types of public service content through initiatives on everything from mental health to charitable work, to providing a sense of community and companionship. While this report highlights great content and initiatives, the case studies here only scratch the surface of what has been broadcast to our 36m listeners every week throughout the pandemic.”

Rt Hon John Whittingdale MP, Minister of State for Media and Data, said: 
“The commercial radio industry has played an extremely important role throughout the pandemic. The initiatives and case studies in this report highlight how broadcasters have continued to provide listeners with trusted and relevant content when it was most needed. The Government recognises the contribution of commercial radio during this period and will continue to do all that it can to support stations and their recovery over the coming months and years.”

Andy Carter MP, Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Commercial Radio, said: “At this time of national emergency the commercial radio industry has demonstrated its significant public value. Steps taken so far by Government and Ofcom to support the industry are welcome but the sector will require further support in order to safeguard a viable British commercial radio industry.”

28 Mar 2024 | Press release

Ostereo expands team and music catalogue with new hires and signings

  New hires include Campaign Manager for Asia and A&R/Digital Manager Original records to be released in 2024 for numerous domestic and overseas artists Ostereo reports international streaming success   Ostereo, the UK-based music label and publishing company, has announced an expansion with new hires and signings...more

28 Mar 2024 | Press release

Nadia Khan appointed as Chair of EarthPercent

  EarthPercent, the charity which harnesses the power of the music industry to support the most impactful climate organisations around the world, has announced the appointment of Nadia Khan as its Chair.  Nadia Khan is the first externally appointed Chair to the...more

28 Mar 2024 | Press release

Showcasing diversity in the European independent music scene - Impala's 100 Artists to Watch for 2024 in collaboration with YouTube

  For the third year in a row, IMPALA returns with its highly anticipated 100 Artists to Watch 2024 edition in collaboration with YouTube. This year, we're excited to showcase a vibrant selection of emerging talent from across the European independent...more

28 Mar 2024 | Press release

Taylor Swift, SEVENTEEN and Morgan Wallen top IFPI Global Album Charts

IFPI releases three more Global Charts for 2023, celebrating the biggest albums of the year across different formats  SEVENTEEN, who reached #1 on IFPI’s Global Album and Global Album Sales Charts, pose with their awards. (Photo courtesy of PLEDIS Entertainment)    IFPI, the...more

28 Mar 2024 | Press release

Wise Music Group sign Portico Quartet

  Wise Music Group announces the signing of Portico Quartet to the global independent publishing group, as they join the roster through Campbell Connelly & Co in an exclusive songwriter agreement. The deal includes their back catalogue and future work.  Led by...more

28 Mar 2024 | Press release

Universal Music Group and Spotify Expand Strategic Relationship

Companies to collaborate on new promotional and social tools to help artists and songwriters drive interaction and excitement around new releases UMG artists will soon be able to share short pre-release teasers and expanded pre-save opportunities on Spotify   Universal Music Group (UMG),...more

28 Mar 2024 | Press release

IMS Ibiza 2024 - Full Summit Program Announced

IMS Ibiza, the thought-leadership platform at the intersection of culture, education, industry, and wellness in electronic music, announces today the full program for the fifteenth edition of the summit. Across 60+ discussions and sessions, 125+ speakers will come together with...more

27 Mar 2024 | Press release

Jordan Rakei announced as the inaugural ‘Artist In Residence’ at Abbey Road Studios

Today (27th March), Jordan Rakei has been announced as the first ever ‘Artist In Residence’ at London’s iconic Abbey Road Studios. The role is the first in a series of new ‘in residence’ appointments, designed to enhance Abbey Road’s position...more

27 Mar 2024 | Press release

Miraval’s Mystery Vinyl [Music For Your Tastebuds] Pop Up Record Shop From Record Store Day & Studio By Miraval

  Record Store Day and Studio by Miraval team up to launch pop-up record shop on Wednesday 17th April  Vinyl enthusiasts have the chance to take home a brand-new mystery record and enjoy a glass of Studio by Miraval Rosé- for just £5! Proceeds...more

27 Mar 2024 | Press release

Jarvis Cocker and Darcus Beese OBE among keynote speakers revealed for the Great Escape Conference

TOM GRAY AND YOLANDA BROWN ALSO REVEALED FOR KEYNOTES  PLUS  AIM JOIN AS A CONFERENCE COLLABORATOR  DOZENS MORE SPEAKERS     The Great Escape has announced a raft of music legends and industry leaders as keynote speakers for its newly revamped conference, including Pulp frontman Jarvis...more

27 Mar 2024 | Press release

PPL pays out £18.8 million of international revenue in Q1 distribution

In today’s Q1 distribution of international revenue, PPL is paying £18.8 million to over 22,000 performers and recording rights holders. The payment is up 7% on the Q1 payment made in March 2023.   The first of four payments made by...more

26 Mar 2024 | Press release

TCE Presents & Broadwick group announce partnership

TCE PRESENTS & BROADWICK ISSUE A JOINT STATEMENT: Pioneering spaces and culture group 'Broadwick', and New York's leading event design company 'TCE presents', announce new US venture Respectively revered for their work within the global live events industry, today - two of...more

26 Mar 2024 | Press release

Manana Music Management launch new full service venture for Scotland's electronic music scene

Mañana Music Management, the Glasgow-based management company behind Joesef, t e s t p r e s s, Theo Bleak and Citizen Papes are delighted to announce a new electronic-based music venture: Mañana Electronic.  Operating as a full service company, Mañana Electronic will offer expertise in management,...more

26 Mar 2024 | Press release

Soundmouse by Orfium appointed official music reporting partner for South Korean broadcast industry

Soundmouse by Orfium will enable music creators and rights holders in the world’s seventh largest music market to receive accurate and transparent royalty payments for the use of their music on radio and television    Soundmouse by Orfium (“the Company”) has been selected by...more

26 Mar 2024 | Press release

Loop.Fans launches Web3 Music Awards - Helping Emerging Artists Grow through AI and Blockchain Technology

Website | Awards Loop.Fans is here to empower both Artists and SuperFans by leveraging the power of the latest Web3, AI and blockchain technology. The platform enables emerging talent in the electronic music industry to gain new followers, engage with and...more

26 Mar 2024 | Press release

GENIE (Gender Equality Networks in Europe) Project Launch

Launch Date: 2 April 2024 www.geniedatabase.comInstagram: @geniedatabase   Gender equality activist and researcher Grace Goodwin launches GENIE (Gender Equality Networks in Europe), an online database of over 300 projects across 25 countries supporting gender equality in music. The database features projects ranging...more

26 Mar 2024 | Press release

Teddy Swims signs to Warner Chappell Music

Powerhouse Vocalist Hit No. 1 On The Billboard Hot 100 This Week With His Global Smash “Lose Control” Warner Chappell Music (WCM) has signed a global publishing deal with masterful singer and songwriter, Teddy Swims. With his RIAA platinum-certified smash hit...more

26 Mar 2024 | Press release

So.Co Image of Music Awards 2024 winners announced

  VIEW IMAGES HERE   Winners of seven categories unveiled at lively event in London Fearghal McGlinchey crowned Music Photographer of the Year McGlinchey also wins Image of Music with shot of Greta Van Fleet Young Music Photographer of the Year awarded to Grace Prachthauser Jill Furmanovsky...more

26 Mar 2024 | Press release

Concord Music Publishing signs legendary soul singer and songwriter William Bell

  Today, Concord Music Publishing announced the signing of iconic soul singer-songwriter, legend of Stax Records and Memphis Music Hall of Fame inductee William Bell. The administration deal, effective immediately, includes a selection of Bell’s catalog and all future works. William Bell states: "I am very...more

26 Mar 2024 | Press release

Grassroots music inquiry - FAC comment

Today, the Culture Media & Sport Committee held three evidence sessions to explore the ongoing crisis in the grassroots music sector, after 125 venues reportedly abandoned live music in 2023.  In the third of these sessions, David Martin, CEO, Featured Artists Coalition, appeared alongside...more

26 Mar 2024 | Press release

Bruce Springsteen to become a Fellow of the Ivors Academy

SPRINGSTEEN MAKES HISTORY AS THE FIRST INTERNATIONAL SONGWRITER TO RECEIVE THE HONOUR FELLOWSHIP RECOGNISES HIS INFLUENCE AND IMPACT ON THE CRAFT OF SONGWRITING Bruce Springsteen will receive the award at the world’s biggest and most prestigious celebration of songwriters, The Ivors with...more

26 Mar 2024 | Press release

The Radio Academy announces nominees for ARIAS 2024

Hosted by Alice Levine & Romesh Ranganathan, plus backstage interviews with Sam Thompson       The Radio Academy today reveals the 211 nominees that will be recognised at the 2024 ARIAS on Tuesday 7th May at Theatre Royal Drury Lane, London.The Radio Academy ARIAS (Audio and Radio Industry Awards) are the UK's leading audio and radio awards that...more

26 Mar 2024 | Press release

Hybe and Universal Music Group announce new global alliance

The new global agreement will give UMG exclusive distribution rights across HYBE's roster of artists and labels HYBE today announced an expanded long-term agreement with Universal Music Group (UMG), providing them exclusive distribution rights across HYBE music for the next 10...more

25 Mar 2024 | Press release

Rewind and Fast Forward: Keychange announces Impact Evaluation Report

Rewind and Fast Forward: Keychange announces Impact Evaluation Report (2018 - 2023) and unveils Keychange Manifesto 2.0 Celebrating 5 years of transformative impact and charting the path forward for gender equity in music at Tallinn Music Week in Estonia on April...more

25 Mar 2024 | Press release

Calling All Music Creators! UK Music Needs Your Help

UK Music is launching its 2024 economic survey for music creators. As the collective voice for the UK music industry, UK Music needs data on creator’s earnings in 2023 to help it to calculate the economic contribution the industry made to the...more

25 Mar 2024 | Press release

AIF statement on Shindig Festival closure

Comment from AIF CEO John Rostron on Shindig Festival's announcement that its 2024 edition will be its last. This is now the 28th UK festival to announce its postponement, cancellation or closure in 2024. A full list of lost festivals can be found here.   AIF...more

25 Mar 2024 | Press release

Royal Albert Hall’s songwriter showcase goes national

The Royal Albert Hall’s ‘Future Makers’ programme, for musicians aged 14 to 19 who write their own music, is going national for the first time. The project, which has been running across London since 2022, provides talented young musicians with a...more

25 Mar 2024 | Press release

FKP Scorpio UK & Communion Presents announce formation of Communion One

THE TWO COMPANIES JOIN FORCES AS LIVE PROMOTERS FOR LIKES OF ED SHEERAN, SAM FENDER, NOAH KAHAN, PHOEBE BRIDGERS, LEWIS CAPALDI, AND MITSKI COMMUNION ONE TO PRODUCE 15,000 CAPACITY THREE NIGHT LIVE EVENT SERIES AT BRISTOL’S QUEEN SQUARE FROM 2025...more

21 Mar 2024 | Press release

Turn on, tune in, rock out: introducing the UK's newest music television destination - Staccs TV

  Staccs TV will offer high-quality music videos, concert clips, exclusive recordings and original programming - on Samsung TV Plus Staccs TV is the latest free, ad-supported television (FAST) channel available to UK viewers  Expansion marks a milestone for the Swedish start up,...more

21 Mar 2024 | Press release

Yolanda Brown breaks a Guinness World Records title

  THE MOST MONEY RAISED BY A RESTAURANT ON KICKSTARTER WORLDWIDE   YOLANDA BROWN OBE DL PUSHES BOUNDARIES AND RAISES QUARTER OF A MILLION POUND  FOR MUSIC VENUE AND RESTAURANT ‘SOUL MAMA’ YOLANDA BROWN - CHANGING THE FACE OF VENUE OWNERSHIP   Today, musician, broadcaster, composer and philanthropist, YolanDa Brown...more

28 Mar 2024

  • Is the US too reliant on paid subscriptions? (see Analysis)

27 Mar 2024

  • Misogyny, sexual discrimination and harassment are still everyday problems for female musicians (see Reports)

26 Mar 2024

  • Believe's board asks Warner Music Group to make acquisition offer (see Business)

25 Mar 2024

  • Why are IFPI & MIDiA’s 2023 revenue figures so far apart? (see Analysis)

22 Mar 2024

  • IFPI: Global recorded music revenues grew 10.2% in 2023 (see Reports)

  • How have one-hit wonders changed over time? (see Analysis)

21 Mar 2024

  • TikTok: MPs raise concerns about UK ownership (see News); AI ambitions (see Digital); UK Artist Playbook (see Reports)

20 Mar 2024

  • The composer with 650 different names identified as Sweden’s most-listened-to artist on Spotify (see Digital)

19 Mar 2024

  • Recorded Music Market report shows 9.8% growth in 2023 (see Reports)

  • Spotify updates its Loud & Clear website with 2023 data (see Reports)

  • Murmur launches with pledges to drive change in environmental solutions (see News)

18 Mar 2024

  • Global music revenue continued to rise in 2023. So why are some music organisations sounding the alarm? (see Comment)

15 Mar 2024

  • Can Sweden keep its edge in the music industry? (see Features)

  • Industry welcomes Labour Party's pledges to the music sector (see News)