6-12-2012
Every year in July, Radio Ink releases Radio's list of power. These are the names and faces that rule the money, run the companies and control the people in our industry. They get their telephone calls answered in an instant and can make many people jump with one decision. The 40 Most Powerful is a list we've been publishing since 1996 when Mel Karmazin sat on top as the boss of one of radio's largest company (Infinity). He had 83 stations, Westwood One, Shadow traffic and a talent stable that included Howard Stern and Don Imus.
Karmazin would remain on or near the top of the list for eight consecutive years, never falling below the 3rd spot, before coming off completely in 2004. In 2012, four of the originals remain on the list (can you name them?) and, compared to Karmazin's 83 stations in 1996, the biggest company today controls over 800.
Back in 1996 Steve Morrison ran Arbitron, Gary Fries ran the RAB, Eddie Fritts ran the NAB and Clear Channel only had 104 stations. Who do you think will be in the top 5 this year? Each of the 40 on the list are profiled, they give insight into how they expect radio to evolve over the next 5-10 years. And they should know, they control the industry.
To become a subscriber to Radio Ink in time to receive the 40 Most Powerful People in Radio issue, call 561-655-8778 or order online HERE
Take a look at the 40 Most Powerful People in Radio from 2011
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