What's Happening?
Audacy, a New York-based audio company, has announced that its Los Angeles news radio station KNX will cease its simulcast on 97.1 FM, transitioning the frequency to a sports talk format starting May 11.
The rebranded station, known as 'The Fan,' will be the first all-sports FM station in the Los Angeles market. KNX will continue its all-news format on its AM frequency 1070 and will also be available on 97.1 HD2, accessible in vehicles with digital radios. Chris Oliviero, Audacy's chief business officer, stated that the change aims to provide more local content to Los Angeles listeners, with a focus on the area's sports teams. The move comes as Audacy seeks to capitalize on its proven track record in sports talk radio, which is attractive to advertisers.
Why It's Important?
The transition of 97.1 FM to a sports talk format represents a strategic shift for Audacy, aiming to capture a larger share of the Los Angeles radio market by tapping into the city's strong sports culture. This move could potentially increase advertising revenue, as sports talk radio is known to attract a dedicated listener base. Additionally, the timing aligns with upcoming major sports events, such as the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, which are expected to boost listener interest. By expanding local content, Audacy is positioning itself to better compete with existing sports talk stations and enhance its market presence.
What's Next?
As 'The Fan' launches, Audacy plans to explore acquiring audio rights to Los Angeles sports teams as they become available, which could further enhance the station's appeal. The station will initially launch without live play-by-play coverage of local teams, as these rights are currently held by KLAC, an AM station co-owned by iHeartRadio and the Dodgers. However, Audacy's focus on local hosts during daytime hours may attract listeners seeking more localized sports commentary. The success of this transition will likely depend on Audacy's ability to secure these rights and effectively market the new format to Los Angeles sports fans.
