First Peoples Radio (FPR), which operates Indigenous not-for-profit stations ELMNT FM in Toronto (CFPT-FM) and Ottawa (CFPO-FM), says their future is in jeopardy without substantive support. The CRTC denied an FPR application this week requesting that $2 million in tangible benefits funding being paid by Stingray Group be redirected over the next two years to support FPR’s operations. Jean LaRose, Chairman of the Board of FPR and acting General Manager, said the application was a last ditch effort to keep the lights on as it continues to grapple with the impact of the pandemic on advertising revenue. He told Broadcast Dialogue that while so far the stations have been able to “struggle on,” FPR had counted on approval of its CRTC application to help it rebuild. Read more here.
The CRTC has granted another extension to Mohawk Multi Media Inc. to begin operation of its proposed Kanien’ké:ha (Mohawk) language Indigenous (Type B Native) radio station in Kanesatake/Oka, Quebec. Originally slated to go to air in June 2021, and then extended to June 2024, the station now has until June 2025 to commence operation. Mohawk Multi Media indicated that the extension was necessary due to the unexpected rise in costs to establish a new transmission site. While construction of the transmission site is now underway, it says it’s anticipating unforeseen delays before the station is fully operational.
Corus Entertainment’s Chuck @ 92.5 (CKNG-FM) Edmonton has banned airplay of Simple Minds single ”Don’t You (Forget About Me),” as it currently holds “the unfortunate role” of the song played every time the Vancouver Canucks score a goal in their home arena. Inspired by and used in 1985 John Hughes’ film The Breakfast Club, ”Don’t You (Forget About Me)” has been a radio staple, including at Chuck @ 92.5. While it previously featured prominently on Chuck’s playlist, the station says it will be sent to the penalty box for the remainder of the Stanley Cup Playoffs Conference Semi-Final series between the Canucks and Oilers.
Pretendians is the latest podcast from Canadaland that exposes jaw-dropping cases of Indigenous Identify Fraud. Co-hosts Robert Jago (Kwantlen First Nation and Nooksack Indian Tribe) and Angel Ellis (Muscogee (Creek) Nation) investigate the complex phenomenon, how they pull it off and what happens when they’re exposed.
Canadian Music Week (CMW) has announced a rare Fireside Chat with music industry visionary Jeremy Erlich, Global Head of Music at Spotify, on June 5 at the Westin Harbour Castle. The discussion will be hosted by Randy Lennox, President of Loft Entertainment. Erlich has held his current role since 2019, responsible for driving the company’s overall music strategy, which includes music editorial, partnerships, marketing, operations, and strengthening Spotify’s relationship within the artist and creative community. Prior to his role at Spotify, he was CFO and EVP of Business Development at Interscope Geffen A&M.
The Pro Bono Group has unveiled a fifth spot in its PSA campaign for the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness (CAEH), titled “Uncomfortable.” The campaign began in mid-October with “41 Years Old,” followed by “Shopping Cart,” “Urgency,” and “Musical Chairs.” The spots are free to download for stations across the country, learn more here.
LISTEN: The Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television is recognizing broadcast veteran Marilyn Denis with a Lifetime Achievement Award, honouring a Canadian for a lifetime of work that has had a profound impact on the media industry at home or abroad. Currently the long-running co-host of mornings on Toronto’s CHUM 104.5, Denis joins Broadcast Dialogue – The Podcast to talk about her career, her feelings on the end of Cityline, changing consumer habits, and more. Listen on your favourite podcast app or here:
LISTEN: Craig Bruce’s radio days started in 1986 hosting shows in Australia. He now consults for radio stations and launched a podcast called Game Changers Radio in 2016, featuring interviews with radio personalities from around the world. While the show podfaded in 2020, his new series Melbourne Radio Wars documents Australian breakfast duo Kyle and Jackie O’s entry into the Melbourne radio market. On this episode, you’ll hear about the differences between Australian and North American radio, the key to Kyle and Jackie O’s success, and how Craig works with younger producers to bring fresh ideas.
