Schwartzman worries that local newscasts are being replaced by regional news services, reducing editorial diversity. Radio mergers have highlighted longstanding listener complaints about repetitious music programming. Industry watchers and consultants say stations are tightening their formats to cover thin demographic slices. A typical adult contemporary station 15 years ago would have 18 to 24 current hits on its playlist in addition to a catalog of about 400 older songs, says Mike McVay, a Cleveland radio consultant. Today, it might play 9 to 12 current hits.
Stations also use focus groups to test songs - a move derided by critics.
It's like going to Kentucky Fried Chicken. Younger listeners are irked the most. The problem with programming is that it's done more and more by consultants and marketing gurus than people who are passionate about the music. But those who follow programming say listeners prefer familiarity. The core audience does not like strange songs.