Issue 806 - May 9, 2022

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May 9, 2022, Issue 806

Q&A: WKKT’s Shelly Easton

One of the format’s most respected programmers during her run at WXTU/Philadelphia (2010-2018), Shelly Easton returned to Country as PD of WKKT/Charlotte last year (Breaking News 10/13/2021). After more than two years overseeing AC WBEB/ Philadelphia, she tells Country Aircheck about the perspective she gained in another format and what she’s noticed programming in the Southeast versus the Northeast. After years in Country, you moved to AC, and now you’re back. What changed in the interim relative to programming, if anything? We are constantly evolving, and certainly Shelly Easton how companies are accomplishing the day-today is different now. However, I left the Country format pre-pandemic and during the pandemic cheered for Country as TSL from its fans remained more loyal than most other formats. It reinforces the “why” of what we do. Country does a great job of embracing the moment and pivoting to continue to be relevant in our communities. Also, our artists don’t just deliver music to an audience they communicate with fans about life. That’s special and it matters. What do you notice about the Country market in North Carolina relative to Pennsylvania? Are there regional differences? Heck yeah! The northeast and southeast are different and we would expect that. Nuances in station presentation, and/or appetite for certain artists may vary region by region. Texas and Seattle are different and so are the Carolinas and Boston. Regardless, big brands earn an important place in the hearts of their communities by their ongoing commitment to localization and meaningful, day-to-day connection with listeners. Most people gravitate towards community and connection, no matter where they call home. This is your first head-to-head Country battle since WRBT/Harrisburg (2000-04). How are the competitive dynamics different in such a hotly contested market? How can we compare? That was before the first iPhone (2007). “No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems” was 20 years ago. (continued on page 9)

Thank U, Tex: Capitol‘s Dierks Bentley at the 2022 iHeartCountry Festival in Austin. Pictured (l-r) are iHeart‘s Tom Poleman, Bentley, iHeart‘s Rod Phillips and the label‘s Royce Risser.

Reboot Scoots: B&D Tour Launch

Arista’s Brooks & Dunn kicked off their Reboot 2022 Tour in Evansville, IN May 5 with support from Jon Pardi and Tyler Booth, both of whom are featured on the 2019 album for which the tour is named. From the point of entry at the arena to the final confetti cannon, the tour showcases nostalgic fun for all ages. While the opening night did not include a radio room, there is a VIP lounge available onsite for those who purchase upper-tier packages. The familiar Brooks & Dunn logo and branding is carried throughout the night, with the merch stand offering a mix of newer designs and Brooks & Dunn throwback styles. Inside the arena, fans

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