Radio 92.9 as an iPod sales tool

Jason, who spent 15 years working in radio, explains why Greater Media's decision to turn WBOS into Mike FM Lite will only drive people to their iPods, because they won't get anything unique there anymore:

... When it comes to branding, they had it. Now, they are a faceless format, fourth in the race, playing the ratings game in anticipation of the Personal People Meter.

Any research company that advised WBOS to do this has done them a disservice. If they were looking for a new format, there were no other format holes? You're kidding. Smooth Jazz? Urban AC (older R&B)? You wanted a 25-39 format, and picked a very crowded lane on the highway.

The radio industry needs brands like WBOS to survive and remain relevant well into the future. It's a good thing the WEEI's, Z100's, KROQ's, Magic 106.7's, and Jam'n 94.5's of the world still exist. These stations fill a need, understand their audiences, and are RELEVANT. People care about them. ... There appear to be far more loyal, angry "old WBOS" listeners than thrilled new listeners to Radio 92.9....