IHeartMedia

iHeartMedia, Inc.

Company type	Private
Industry	Mass media
Founded	1972
Founder	Lowry Mays, Red McCombs
Headquarters	San Antonio, Texas , United States
Area served	United States
Key people	Bob Pittman (CEO), Rich Bressler (President)
Products	Radio broadcasting, podcast production, digital media services, live event management
Website	www.iheartmedia.com

iHeartMedia, Inc., previously known as CC Media Holdings, Inc., is a prominent American mass media company headquartered in San Antonio, Texas. It functions as the parent company of iHeartCommunications, Inc., which was formerly called Clear Channel Communications, Inc.. Established in 1972 by Lowry Mays and Red McCombs, the business transitioned to private ownership in 2008 following a leveraged buyout led by Bain Capital and Thomas H. Lee Partners.

After the 2008 acquisition, Clear Channel Communications became a fully owned subsidiary under CC Media Holdings. On September 16, 2014, CC Media Holdings underwent rebranding to become iHeartMedia, Inc., while Clear Channel Communications was renamed iHeartCommunications, Inc., signaling a strategic pivot toward digital media and the integration of live events.

Overview

iHeartMedia, Inc. focuses on radio broadcasting, podcast production, digital media services, and live event management through its division iHeartMedia and its subsidiary iHeartMedia and Entertainment, Inc.. The corporation owns more than 870 full-power AM and FM radio stations across the United States, establishing it as the nation's largest radio station proprietor. Additionally, it operates the digital platform iHeartRadio, which plays a central role in its current branding strategy.

Historically, iHeartMedia also participated in live events and out-of-home advertising, but divested these segments in 2005 and 2019 respectively; these divisions evolved into Live Nation Entertainment and Clear Channel Outdoor.

20th century

Clear Channel Communications began growing its radio holdings by acquiring its initial FM station in San Antonio, Texas in 1972, followed by the purchase of the clear channel AM station WOAI in 1975. By 1976, the company had expanded beyond San Antonio into additional markets including Tulsa, Port Arthur, and El Paso.

The easing of U.S. radio ownership regulations in 1992 enabled Clear Channel to increase its station acquisitions within individual markets. By 1995, its portfolio included 43 radio stations and 16 television stations. The passage of the 1996 Telecommunications Act further deregulated media ownership restrictions, allowing Clear Channel to acquire over 70 companies and stations, greatly enhancing its market presence.

To comply with regulatory ownership limits following some acquisitions, Clear Channel was required to divest certain assets such as "border blaster" stations like XETRA-FM ("91X") serving the Tijuana/San Diego area.

In 1997, Clear Channel broadened its scope by acquiring Eller Media, a billboard advertising firm led by Karl Eller. The following year marked its initial venture outside the U.S. with the purchase of UK-based outdoor advertising company More Group plc under Roger Parry. This acquisition initiated a series of international expansions consolidated under Clear Channel International, including obtaining a majority stake in Clear Media Ltd. based in China.

Concurrently, R. Steven Hicks alongside Hicks, Muse, Tate & Furst established Capstar Broadcasting in 1996. Capstar rapidly grew to become the largest radio owner in the United States with 243 stations. In 1997, Capstar announced plans to merge with SFX Broadcasting to create an entity controlling 314 stations across 79 markets.

In 1998, Chancellor Media Corporation combined with Capstar Broadcasting to form a company managing 463 stations across 105 markets. Chancellor subsequently rebranded as AMFM Inc., which was acquired by Clear Channel in a $17.4 billion transaction announced in October 1999. This deal expanded Clear Channel’s assets to include 830 radio stations, 19 television stations, and over 425,000 outdoor advertising displays spanning 32 countries.

Also during 1999, Clear Channel purchased Cincinnati-based Jacor Communications and invested in XM Satellite Radio’s satellite service, securing programming rights for select channels featuring content from its own stations and syndicated shows.

21st century

In 2000, Clear Channel expanded its reach by acquiring concert promoter SFX Entertainment, merging various regional promoters into a unified national entity. By 2005, it separated its entertainment and live event operations, establishing Live Nation as an independent company.

On November 16, 2006, Clear Channel revealed a $26.7 billion acquisition offer from private equity firms Thomas H. Lee Partners and Bain Capital, which included $8 billion in assumed debt. This transaction valued Clear Channel shares at $37.60 each, representing nearly a 10% premium over the previous closing price. Simultaneously, the company sought to divest its television properties and smaller radio stations, as these assets did not attract interest from private equity investors. More than 100 stations were transferred to Aloha Station Trust, while television stations were sold to Newport Television by April 2007.

The 2007 financial crisis complicated the sale of Clear Channel’s stations; a proposed transaction with GoodRadio.TV fell through due to its investors withdrawing support, resulting in extended legal disputes with another prospective buyer. Despite initial doubts, the sale of television assets to Newport Television was eventually completed.

Clear Channel extended the deadline for completing the buyout from December 2007 to June 2008. In July 2008, shareholders approved a modified buyout valued at $17.9 billion plus debt at $36 per share by Bain Capital and Thomas H. Lee Partners. After transitioning to private ownership, the company streamlined programming and reduced its workforce by approximately 7%, responding to economic challenges and debt obligations stemming from the acquisition.

By early 2010, Clear Channel was confronting potential bankruptcy due to excessive debt burdens. Mark Mays resigned as CEO after a tenure of 21 years but continued serving as chairman. Later that year, Robert W. "Bob" Pittman, co-founder of MTV, joined the company and eventually assumed the role of CEO of CC Media Holdings.

In August 2013, Clear Channel divested its minority stake in Sirius XM for $135.5 million, withdrawing most of its programmed channels from the satellite service except for simulcasts of WHTZ and KIIS-FM.

January 2014 marked a partnership between Clear Channel and SFX Entertainment aimed at broadening electronic dance music (EDM) content across both digital platforms and terrestrial radio outlets, thereby increasing visibility for EDM artists through initiatives such as Evolution.

In September 2014, Clear Channel rebranded itself as iHeartMedia to highlight its expanding focus on digital media through the iHeartRadio platform. CEO Bob Pittman described this rebranding as indicative of the company’s evolution beyond its traditional AM radio origins.

Since 2008, iHeartMedia grappled with over $20 billion in leveraged debt resulting from its buyout. Media analysts forecasted potential bankruptcy or restructuring amid escalating financial strain. In April 2017, the company cautioned investors about possible insolvency within the upcoming year.

In 2016, Julia B. Donnelly was succeeded by Laura A. Grattan from Thomas H. Lee Partners on iHeartMedia’s board and affiliated entities.

By late 2017, creditors rejected iHeartMedia’s restructuring plans, leading toward Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The company filed for bankruptcy on March 15, 2018, consenting to restructure approximately $10 billion of its liabilities.

In September 2018, iHeartMedia acquired Stuff Media—the podcast network behind HowStuffWorks—for $55 million and announced intentions to purchase Jelli, a provider of programmatic advertising solutions for radio.

A creditor-supported reorganization plan approved in January 2019 enabled iHeartMedia to emerge from bankruptcy with reduced debt—from $16.1 billion down to $5.75 billion—and to spin off its controlling interest in Clear Channel Outdoor advertising division. Although an IPO was filed in April, the company ultimately opted for a direct listing on Nasdaq.

iHeartMedia exited bankruptcy in May 2019 with refreshed board members while retaining CEO Bob Pittman and President Rich Bressler.

On January 14, 2020, iHeartMedia unveiled a significant organizational restructuring designed to modernize operations by grouping its Markets division into three segments: Regions (largest markets), Metropolitan (major urban centers), and Communities (smaller markets). This reorganization also introduced multi-market partnerships and technology-enabled centers of excellence aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and audience engagement. The restructuring involved substantial workforce reductions affecting both staff and on-air talent.

Businesses

iHeartMedia holds stakes across multiple sectors within media and advertising.

Radio

Boasting ownership of 855 stations, iHeartMedia ranks as the largest radio conglomerate in the United States by both number of stations and revenue. Its broadcasts reach an audience exceeding 110 million listeners weekly and 276 million monthly. BIA Financial Network reports that iHeartMedia’s revenue surpassed $3.5 billion, outpacing the second-largest competitor, Audacy.

In June 2012, iHeartMedia pioneered a collaboration with record labels to directly compensate artists and labels through performance royalties, funded by shared advertising revenues across various platforms, including digital channels. The Big Machine Label Group was the inaugural partner in this initiative, allowing both artists and labels to participate in earnings from broadcast and expanding digital radio income.

Radio acquisitions

iHeartMedia has grown its market presence by acquiring numerous radio companies, thereby strengthening its global footprint and competitive position. Significant acquisitions have played a crucial role in this expansion.

Outdoor advertising

Clear Channel Outdoor (CCO), once a subsidiary of iHeartMedia, was separated in May 2019 as part of the company’s restructuring following bankruptcy.

Television

Clear Channel Television operated between 1988 and 2008, owning a portfolio of over 40 stations primarily affiliated with major networks. Established under president J. Daniel Sullivan, its initial purchase was WPMI-TV in Mobile, Alabama, in 1988. Subsequent acquisitions included KDTU-TV in Tucson and other important stations such as KOKI-TV, WAWS-TV in Jacksonville, and KSAS-TV in Wichita. Over time, it became the second-largest independent television operator after Sinclair Broadcast Group.

The company grew through both acquisitions and local marketing agreements (LMAs), managing stations including WJTC, KASN, KTTU, WLMT, KTFO-TV, and WTEV-TV. In the mid-1990s, Clear Channel acquired affiliates of the Big Three networks like WHP-TV in Harrisburg and WPRI-TV in Providence. It also added Jacor Communications’ WKRC-TV to its holdings.

Following relaxation of FCC duopoly regulations, Clear Channel purchased several stations outright such as WLMT (Memphis), KTFO (Tulsa), WTEV (Jacksonville), KASN (Little Rock), and WJTC (Mobile). It divested certain properties including WPRI-TV in 2000 and KTTU in 2002. Leadership changes included Rip Rioridan followed by William Moll as presidents; Don Perry assumed the role of president and CEO in 2006.

To enhance brand cohesion with sister radio outlets, several TV stations were rebranded using legacy radio callsigns—for instance, KMOL-TV was renamed WOAI-TV in San Antonio while WOKR became WHAM-TV in Rochester.

In 2007, Clear Channel agreed to sell its television division to Providence Equity Partners for $1.2 billion; the deal concluded in March 2008. These stations were then operated under Newport Television until they were sold between 2012 and 2013 to entities such as Cox Media Group, Nexstar Media Group, and Sinclair Broadcast Group.

Former Clear Channel-owned stations

Stations are organized alphabetically by state and city of license.

City of license / Market	Station	Channel	Years owned	Current status
Mobile, AL–Pensacola, FL	WPMI-TV	15	1988–2008	NBC affiliate currently owned by Deerfield Media
	WJTC	44	2001–2008	Independent station owned by Deerfield Media
Fairbanks, AK	KTVF	11	2002–2008	NBC affiliate under ownership of Gray Television
Tucson, AZ	KTTU	18	1989–2002	The CW/MyNetworkTV affiliate owned by Tegna Inc.
Little Rock, AR	KLRT-TV	16	1991–2008	Fox affiliate owned by Mission Broadcasting
	KASN	38	2000–2008	The CW affiliate owned by Mission Broadcasting
Bakersfield, CA	KGET-TV	17	2002–2008	NBC affiliate owned by Nexstar Media Group
	KKEY-LP	11	2003–2008	Telemundo affiliate owned by Nexstar Media Group
Eureka, CA	KVIQ	6	2002–2005	License cancelled in 2020 after ceasing operations in 2018; callsign changed to KJRW before shutdown; CBS programming transferred to Northwest Broadcasting as KVIQ-LD.

City of license / Media market	Station	Channel	Years owned	Current status

Music charts

iHeartMedia is the proprietor of Mediabase, a service that monitors the most frequently played tracks on radio stations throughout the United States and Canada. Although the majority of contributing stations are owned by iHeartMedia, other broadcasters also supply data. Premiere Networks utilizes Mediabase rankings for its countdown programming.

News and information

• Manages the iHeartRadio News Network along with local news services operating in various U.S. states such as Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, Ohio, Oklahoma, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, and Florida.
• Premiere Networks
• Former owner of the Agri Broadcast Network (ABN), which provided agricultural content in Ohio.
• Publisher of Inside Radio magazine.
• The Total Traffic & Weather Network delivers traffic and weather updates across the U.S. and Mexico City, widely integrated into GPS navigation devices. It also operates a continuous news channel on iHeartRadio. Between 2016 and 2024, it collaborated with NBC News Radio through a content and licensing partnership.
• Fan Radio Network caters to sports radio listeners in Minnesota, South Dakota, and North Dakota; its primary station is KFXN-FM in Minneapolis.
• Your Smooth Jazz: a round-the-clock smooth jazz channel managed by the Broadcast Architecture division.

Worldwide

• Holds ownership of outdoor advertising firms in countries including Brazil, Chile, Finland, France, Italy, Latvia, Norway, Poland, Romania, Singapore, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Belgium, and Mauritius.
• L & C Outdoor Comunicação Visual Ltda., based in Brazil
• Maintains a notable billboard footprint in the United Kingdom through its acquisition of Adshel (refer to Clear Channel UK).

Bicycle rental systems

Manages urban bike-sharing programs in several European cities:

City	Country	Launch date	System name	Stations	Bikes
Caen	France		40	350
Dijon	France		33	350
Perpignan	France		15	150
Rennes	France	1998	25	200
Oslo	Norway
Drammen	Norway
Trondheim	Norway
Barcelona	Spain		Bicing	400	6,000
Zaragoza	Spain		Bizi
Stockholm	Sweden		City bikes	140	1,000
Malmö	Sweden		Malmö by bike
Milan	Italy		bikeMi	103	1,300
Antwerp	Belgium	June 9, 2011	Velo Antwerpen	297	4,200

Vertical Real Estate

Established in 2003 by Clear Channel, the Vertical Real Estate division was led by Scott Quitadamo to market its portfolio of towers. iHeartMedia possesses roughly 1,500 broadcast transmission towers throughout the United States. Many of these towers are available for shared use by cellular providers, PCS operators, wireless internet services, fixed wireless companies, and other broadcasters.

Programming

Premiere Networks operates under iHeartMedia as the largest syndication service nationwide. In addition to Premiere's offerings, iHeartMedia independently syndicates several proprietary talk and music programs. These independently syndicated shows often reduce expenses due to minimal sales personnel and lack of network-wide advertising commitments. This model enhances affiliate stations' attractiveness by allowing complete local advertising control. The content lineup features a range of political viewpoints and broadcasts on both stations owned by iHeartMedia and external broadcasters.

Moreover, iHeartMedia supplies studio facilities and support to the Phoenix-based WestStar TalkRadio Network, enabling many WestStar shows to be broadcast on iHeartMedia stations. Although not all content originates from within iHeartMedia’s production teams, their stations maintain uniform branding and consistent format standards.

iHeartRadio

iHeartRadio is a complimentary platform offering broadcast, podcast, and streaming services, featuring more than 860 local iHeartMedia stations across the United States, alongside numerous additional stations from diverse media providers.

Alternative Stations

iHeartMedia’s alternative-format stations frequently use the "Radio" label (such as Radio 94.5 in Temecula) or "ALT" branding (like Alt 98.7 in Los Angeles). Other station identifiers include The Edge, The Buzz, The Project, Star, and X. The morning schedule for these stations is anchored by The Woody Show from KYSR.

Hip-hop, Rap, R&B and Rhythmic Stations

Clusters targeting African American listeners are significant in cities like Philadelphia, Chicago, and Detroit. iHeartMedia commonly operates several stations within a single market cluster, each with a unique emphasis—one focusing on Rap and another on Soul or classic R&B. For instance, Philadelphia’s WUSL specializes in hip hop while WDAS-FM targets Soul audiences; similarly, Chicago’s WGCI-FM focuses on rap whereas WVAZ centers on Soul.

Brand identities associated with these genres include "Real" (KRRL Los Angeles), "Beat" (KQBT Houston), and "Power" (WWPR-FM New York). In markets such as San Francisco and Detroit, iHeartMedia runs multiple rhythmic stations that span Top 40 hits, oldies, and contemporary styles. Legacy stations like WHRK in Memphis and WKKV-FM in Milwaukee further solidify the company’s market foothold.

Classic Hip-Hop and Throwback formats are prominently featured on iHeartRadio and select stations including KATZ-FM in St. Louis. This format evolved from Rhythmic Oldies outlets initially launched in Los Angeles before changes occurred in the mid-2000s.

Rhythmic Top 40 brands encompass "The Beat" (KUBT Honolulu), Power 102 El Paso, and "Jam'n" (KXJM Portland), among others that cater to diverse audiences with Rhythmic Pop, R&B/Hip-Hop, and Dance music selections.

Rhythmic Adult Contemporary stations formerly carried the "Party" brand; however, some have shifted toward Top 40 or mainstream rock formats while maintaining certain branding elements. Syndicated urban morning programs include The Breakfast Club from WWPR-FM New York and "Big Boy's Neighborhood" from KRRL Los Angeles. In 2017, iHeartMedia broadened its rhythmic AC content during the third season of its programming expansion.

Smooth jazz

The Smooth Jazz Network (Your Smooth Jazz), distributed by iHeartMedia and programmed by Broadcast Architecture, features a lineup including Kenny G and Sandy Kovach during morning drive time, Miranda Wilson at midday, Allen Kepler in the afternoon slot, and Maria Lopez during evenings. Overnight hours run without live DJs. Weekend shows comprise the Smooth Jazz Top 20 hosted by Allen Kepler and the Dave Koz Radio Show.

Dance and EDM

iHeartMedia’s Dance and EDM selections originated with shows such as Electric Sound Stage, Club Phusion, Trancid, Pride Radio, PrototypeRadio, The Spin*Cycle, and Classic Dance. Although it does not operate full-power Dance/EDM stations outright, iHeartMedia utilizes FM translators and HD2 channels to air the EDM-centric Evolution platform (with KZZP/Phoenix as its flagship) and caters to the LGBT community through Pride Radio (flagship: WFLZ/Tampa). Many of its Top 40/CHR and Rhythmic Top 40 outlets integrate numerous Dance tracks and feature mix show segments. The weekly countdown program America’s Dance 30 is broadcast on Evolution as well as selected iHeart stations.

News/Talk stations

iHeartMedia’s news/talk outlets generally feature locally produced morning shows, with syndicated hosts occupying other time slots. Programs syndicated through Premiere Networks include The Glenn Beck Radio Program, The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show, The Sean Hannity Show, The Jesse Kelly Show, and Coast to Coast AM with George Noory. Additionally, several stations broadcast non-Premiere syndicated shows such as The Mark Levin Show and The Dave Ramsey Show.

Prior to 2021, The Rush Limbaugh Show was a staple across many iHeartMedia news/talk stations. In markets where iHeartMedia’s talk formats underperform, popular syndicated programs have sometimes been transferred to competing broadcasters. Select stations also air morning news programs like America in The Morning and This Morning, America's First News with Gordon Deal. When local morning shows are not available, syndicated programs such as Armstrong & Getty and The Michael DelGiorno Show frequently occupy that time slot.

While Beck, Hannity, and Noory are widely broadcast, major markets often prioritize local hosts. In cities where iHeartMedia owns multiple talk stations, the flagship station (for example, KFI in Los Angeles or KOA in Denver) emphasizes local programming, whereas secondary stations predominantly air syndicated shows from Premiere Networks.

Weekend lineups include syndicated offerings like At Home with Gary Sullivan, Handel on the Law with Bill Handel, and The Weekend with Michael Brown. Most weekend content is pre-recorded except for live Sunday evening broadcasts hosted by Ben Ferguson and Bill Cunningham. Additionally, archival episodes of late-1990s to early-2000s editions of Coast to Coast AM featuring Art Bell—who passed away in 2018—are also part of the schedule.

To address the decline in AM radio listenership, iHeartMedia simulcasts numerous AM news/talk stations on full-power FM frequencies. Examples include KFBK-FM in Sacramento simulcasting KFBK 1530 AM, KNRS-FM in Salt Lake City simulcasting KNRS 570 AM, WGY-FM in Albany simulcasting WGY 810 AM, WERC-FM in Birmingham simulcasting WERC 960 AM, and WSYR-FM in Syracuse simulcasting WSYR 570 AM.

Certain AM talk stations also extend their coverage through low-power FM translators; notable cases are WLAC Nashville, KOA Denver, and WFLA Tampa. In Washington D.C., iHeartMedia operates a translator-only station branded "Freedom 104.7 FM," which is fed by an HD Radio subchannel of WMZQ-FM 98.7 and rebroadcast on translator W284CQ at 104.7 MHz.

Progressive talk

iHeartMedia’s progressive talk programming has mainly been featured on secondary stations alongside primary news/talk formats. These have included local hosts as well as syndicated shows primarily from Westwood One and Air America Radio. Nevertheless, due to low audience ratings and limited advertising revenue, iHeartMedia frequently replaced liberal talk formats with sports or alternative programming. Stations such as WCKY Cincinnati, KLSD San Diego, WXKS Boston, KPOJ Portland, and WINZ Miami transitioned away from progressive talk toward sports formats.

An exception was WXXM in Madison, Wisconsin, where listener opposition temporarily maintained the liberal format. However, by November 2016, WXXM shifted to a classic hits format due to a shortage of available syndicated progressive talk programs.

All-News

iHeartMedia manages a single continuous local all-news station, WBZ Boston, which includes limited evening talk programming. Several stations offer all-news formats during peak commute hours, such as KFBK Sacramento, KOA Denver, and KOGO San Diego. Additionally, the company operates the "24/7 News" channel through its Total Traffic and Weather Network division. Between 2016 and 2024, this channel was known as NBC News Radio under a licensing and content agreement with NBC News.

Black Information Network

On June 30, 2020, iHeartMedia introduced the Black Information Network (BIN), an all-news radio service designed specifically for African American listeners. BIN is broadcast on iHeartMedia stations across multiple markets, with WBIN Atlanta serving as the network’s flagship outlet.

Sports talk stations

The majority of iHeartMedia’s sports talk outlets are affiliated with Fox Sports Radio, while a smaller number carry competing ESPN Radio programming. For instance, in Cincinnati, WSAI airs Fox Sports content whereas WCKY features ESPN shows. The company further enhanced its sports media footprint in 2020 by launching the iHeartSports Network.

Adult standards

Most adult standards stations under iHeartMedia operated as automated services, relying on satellite-delivered content such as Westwood One’s America's Best Music or Music of Your Life, typically without local on-air personalities. Over time, many of these stations have been sold or transitioned to sports or talk formats.

Adult contemporary

iHeartMedia’s Adult Contemporary (AC) stations frequently adopt brand names like "Lite FM" (examples include WLTW New York and WLIT-FM Chicago) or "Sunny" (KODA Houston and KTSM-FM El Paso). Other common brandings include "Magic," "B," or similar labels. Since 2018, the "The Breeze" brand has reintroduced Soft AC formats aimed at millennial listeners. Syndicated evening programs often feature Delilah from Premiere Networks; when that show is not carried, The John Tesh Radio Show typically fills the slot. Popular weekend offerings include Your Weekend with Jim Brickman and The Ellen K Weekend Show.

Nearly every iHeartMedia AC station switches to an all-Christmas music playlist during November and December, with some starting as early as November 1 (such as WLIT-FM Chicago). Others begin in early November, while WLTW New York delays the transition until the Friday preceding Thanksgiving.

Hot adult contemporary stations commonly use brand names like "Mix" (WMMX Dayton), "Star" (KMYI San Diego), or "MYfm" (KBIG Los Angeles). Their formats span from modern rock to adult hits.

Contemporary hit radio

iHeartMedia’s Contemporary Hit Radio (CHR) outlets share prominent brands such as "KISS-FM" (including KIIS-FM Los Angeles and WKSC-FM Chicago), "Z" (WHTZ New York and KKRZ Portland), "Wild" (WLDI West Palm Beach), "Power" (WWPW Atlanta), Channel (WKQI Detroit), and "Hot" (WIHT Washington, D.C.). Less frequently used brands include "Radio Now," "Q," "B," "FM," "V," "Max," "K.C.," and "X."

While most CHR stations offer broad playlists appealing to wide audiences, some like KPRR El Paso and WKTU New York focus more heavily on rhythmic contemporary selections. In particular, WKTU complements its sister station WHTZ by emphasizing rhythmic hits to establish a distinct market niche.

Country music

iHeartMedia’s country-format stations frequently adopt branding such as "The Bull" (for example, WUBL Atlanta and KSD-FM St. Louis) or "Big" (like WSIX-FM Nashville). Overnight programming usually features the syndicated After Midnite with Granger Smith, while the morning drive slot is often occupied by The Bobby Bones Show, which originates from WSIX-FM Nashville. In markets where local morning shows have a strong presence, the Bobby Bones program may be scheduled during evening or weekend hours.

The iHeartCountry brand was introduced by iHeartMedia in 2015, including the annual iHeartRadio Country Festival, a significant live concert event that is also recorded for television broadcast.

Classic Hits/Oldies

Most of iHeartMedia’s Classic Hits stations broadcast on FM, with some AM affiliates, utilizing brand names such as "Big" and "Kool." These FM outlets primarily play popular tracks from the late 1970s through the 1990s—focusing heavily on the 1980s—with a playlist of approximately 500 songs. Their programming typically features either local DJs or voicetracked hosts from other markets. Syndicated content includes The 80s Show with Jeff Stevens and Casey Kasem’s American Top 40 from the 1970s and 1980s.

AM oldies stations generally cater to an older demographic with playlists spanning from 1955 to 1975, placing special emphasis on oldies from 1964 to 1969. Many of these also air adult standards and specialized programming focused on pre-1964 music, primarily serving smaller market areas.

Rock

iHeartMedia’s rock stations offer a mix of contemporary and classic rock, often featuring syndicated programs such as Nights with Alice Cooper broadcast from KSLX-FM Phoenix. Until 2015, some stations aired Sixx Sense with Nikki Sixx. Daytime slots are commonly hosted live, whereas nighttime shows tend to be voicetracked. Other syndicated offerings include Rockline with Bob Coburn and Little Steven's Underground Garage.

Classic rock outlets frequently use branding like "The Fox" or "The Brew," carrying morning shows such as Bob and Tom (originating from WFBQ Indianapolis) or John Boy and Billy (from WRFX Charlotte), both syndicated through Premiere Networks. Additionally, select stations air Rover's Morning Glory. Some have embraced an ’80s-centric classic rock format under "The Brew" branding.

For alternative rock formats, iHeartMedia employs a consistent "Alt" brand across different markets.

Spanish

In certain markets, iHeartMedia operates FM stations dedicated entirely to Hispanic programming, featuring formats such as Contemporary Tropical and Mexican music. Some outlets broadcast a rap-influenced Spanish format known as Hurban, which fuses Spanish dance beats with R&B and Hip Hop elements. This division was overseen by Alfredo Alonso, who joined as senior vice president of Hispanic Radio in 2004. In 2016, Enrique Santos was appointed chairman and chief creative officer of the newly established iHeartLatino division, reflecting an intensified commitment to serving Hispanic audiences.

To further engage the Hispanic market, iHeartMedia launched the annual event series iHeartRadio Fiesta Latina, spotlighting leading Latin artists.

Religious

iHeartMedia owns multiple AM religious stations, some of which lease airtime to outside ministries or local congregations, following a format comparable to Salem Media. The company also programs Gospel music stations aimed at Black American listeners, blending music with blocks of religious-themed content. These stations often resemble urban formats but maintain a faith-centered focus.

Specialties

In Honolulu, Hawaii, iHeartMedia’s KDNN station features a Contemporary Hawaiian Hits and Reggae format, complemented by an HD2 subchannel dedicated exclusively to traditional Hawaiian music. Additionally, various AM stations under iHeartMedia's ownership or local marketing agreements broadcast multicultural content. In 2019, the company ventured into specialized markets by launching an all-podcast format on WSAN in Allentown, Pennsylvania, and by introducing a Top 40 format centered on K-pop and international pop on Honolulu’s K256AS/KUCD-HD2, thereby broadening its programming portfolio and appealing to evolving musical tastes.

Market share

During the late 1990s and early 2000s, Clear Channel encountered ongoing criticism following the relaxation of FCC ownership rules under the Telecommunications Act of 1996, which permitted expanded control of radio stations. With investments totaling approximately $30 billion, the company amassed ownership of over 1,200 stations across the United States, including up to eight stations within certain markets. Despite opposition from media reform organizations such as the Future of Music Coalition, Clear Channel maintained most of its holdings after divesting a portion post-AMFM merger. Since declaring intentions to privatize, more than 500 stations have been sold or are currently on the market.

September 11, 2001

In the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, Clear Channel distributed a list of songs considered sensitive during the national period of mourning. Compiled by program directors and circulated by management on September 13, 2001, this list contained roughly 150 tracks with themes or lyrics referencing terms like "plane," "fly," and "burn." While some critics alleged political motives behind the list’s creation, Clear Channel maintained it served as programming guidance rather than an outright ban. Notably, WOFX in Cincinnati continued to air songs from this list despite its headquarters being local. Among the included tracks were Tom Petty's "Free Fallin'", Louis Armstrong's "What a Wonderful World", and all songs by Rage Against the Machine.

Live music recordings

In 2004, Clear Channel secured a patent related to producing Instant Live recordings—capturing live performances directly from sound engineer consoles and rapidly burning them onto CDs for immediate distribution. This innovation was intended to create new revenue streams for artists, venues, and promoters while curbing unauthorized bootleg sales. However, critics and smaller industry competitors contended that Clear Channel leveraged this patent—covering track cue insertion during recording—to restrict competition or enforce licensing fees even when alternative recording techniques were employed. After Clear Channel Entertainment was spun off as Live Nation, ownership of the patent transferred accordingly but was invalidated on March 13, 2007, due to infringement on an earlier patent held by Telex.

Indecency zero tolerance

Following the controversy surrounding the 2004 Super Bowl XXXVIII halftime show, Clear Channel adopted a stringent "zero tolerance" stance on indecent content, leading to the termination of several prominent radio personalities. This policy shift provoked backlash from advocates of free speech. A notable casualty was Howard Stern, who was removed from six Clear Channel stations in major metropolitan areas. Meanwhile, competitor Viacom, through its Infinity Broadcasting division, reinstated Stern's program in those same markets later that year. In June 2004, Viacom initiated a $10 million lawsuit against Clear Channel alleging contract violations and unpaid licensing fees tied to Stern's removal; Clear Channel responded with a $3 million countersuit in July.

Concert Events

In the early 2000s, Clear Channel reached a settlement with Denver-based concert promoter Nobody In Particular Presents (NIPP), which had accused the company of suppressing airplay and obstructing promotional efforts for its events. The 2004 agreement included a confidential financial arrangement. Nonetheless, investigations revealed no proof that Clear Channel exploited its radio outlets to manipulate ticket pricing within its now-sold concert promotion division.

Local Programming Production

iHeartMedia utilizes the RCS Nex-Gen automation platform across its stations, facilitating remote broadcasting by DJs through voice-tracking technology. This system enables stations in smaller markets to function with reduced on-site personnel, often relying on "cyber-jocks" who may never physically visit the station. Consequently, numerous local on-air roles have been downsized or eliminated. The company mainly employs part-time workers compensated on an hourly basis, and since the early 2020s, several stations have included disclaimers during station identifications to indicate pre-recorded content.

Insufficient Local Staffing During Emergencies

Following a hazardous train derailment on January 18, 2002, in Minot, North Dakota—where 240,000 US gallons of toxic anhydrous ammonia were released—Clear Channel faced criticism. At that time, the company owned six out of nine commercial radio stations in the area. City officials experienced difficulty contacting Clear Channel's local office to broadcast urgent warnings; it took several hours before reaching the station manager at home. Meanwhile, emergency operators advised residents to listen to Clear Channel’s KCJB for updates, but no emergency announcements were transmitted.

The incident caused one fatality and over a thousand medical treatments. Clear Channel denied liability, asserting that the city was responsible for activating the Emergency Alert System (EAS), which was operational but never triggered by authorities. Other critical emergency systems in Minot also malfunctioned or became overwhelmed during the crisis, including public sirens and parts of the 9-1-1 infrastructure.

Advertising Image Denials

In June 2010, Clear Channel Outdoor declined two digital billboard submissions from St. Pete Pride, an LGBT organization sponsoring pride events in St. Petersburg, Florida, leading the group to cancel their advertising agreement. St. Pete Pride observed that Clear Channel had previously altered their advertisements and questioned whether the refusal was related to images showing same-sex couples expressing affection. Clear Channel did not disclose specific reasons but denied that such affectionate content was the cause, referencing earlier campaigns featuring similar imagery.

Content Censorship

iHeartMedia and its affiliates have been criticized for restricting political material and viewpoints. For instance, in 2007 Clear Channel limited airplay of Bruce Springsteen's album Magic, which contained subtle critiques of then-President George W. Bush. Similarly, after Dixie Chicks' lead singer Natalie Maines publicly criticized President Bush, iHeartMedia stations drastically reduced their airplay without official explanation, citing respect for military personnel and audience preferences.

In 2005, KTVX—a Clear Channel station in Salt Lake City—was unique in refusing to broadcast an anti-Iraq War advertisement by Cindy Sheehan during President Bush’s visit.

In 2014, supporters of Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett filed a complaint against iHeartMedia-owned Capstar TX LLC for failing to provide equivalent free airtime on WISN radio to counter statements endorsing Republican Governor Scott Walker. The Federal Communications Commission later eliminated the Zapple doctrine governing such fairness obligations.

Employment of paid performers acting as callers

Through its subsidiary Premiere Radio Networks, iHeartMedia engages actors to participate in talk radio programs by calling in as listeners, delivering scripted narratives and viewpoints. Premiere Radio guarantees clients that no actor's voice will be reused within a two-month period to preserve credibility.

iHeartMedia’s involvement with rock radio

Due to shifting demographics and decreasing audience demand, iHeartMedia has phased out multiple longstanding rock music formats, often encountering unfavorable responses from listeners. Significant format transitions include:

• KSJO San Jose – converted to Spanish-language oldies in 2004 after maintaining a rock format for 35 years.
• KLOL Houston – switched to Spanish-language pop in 2004 following 34 years as a rock station; subsequently sold to CBS Radio.
• WFNX Boston – adopted an adult hits format in 2012 after 29 years specializing in alternative rock.
• WKLS Atlanta – transitioned to mainstream top 40 in 2012 after 38 years as a rock outlet.
• KZEP-FM San Antonio – moved to rhythmic hot adult contemporary in 2014 after 25 years of classic rock; classic rock programming was relocated to a low-power translator station.
• KDGE Dallas–Fort Worth – shifted from alternative rock to seasonal Christmas music in late 2016, then to mainstream adult contemporary, concluding a 27-year tenure.

These deliberate changes underscore iHeartMedia’s strategic response to evolving listener preferences and market conditions within the radio sector.

See also

• iHeartMedia radio stations
• Clear Channel UK
• List of radio stations owned by iHeartMedia
• List of songs deemed inappropriate by Clear Channel following the September 11, 2001 attacks
• TuneIn

Further reading

1. Eric Boehlert, "Radio's big bully", salon.com, April 30, 2001
2. Eric Boehlert, "Tough company", salon.com, May 30, 2001
3. "Group sues over anti-war billboard", CNN, July 12, 2004
4. Salon.com article on Clear Channel

External links

• Official website