CC Radio’s Format Lab gone?

More evidence of content cuts at CC Radio: Their much-acclaimed Format Lab is gone from the web. Replaced by their “I (Heart) Music” website for mobile phones. The list now only includes a few HD multicast formats, but does keep the main stream of their HD-1 and analog stations. Seems many HD multicast formats are gone. “Undies” Indie Rock is but one example—it can’t be found one the web, either. The previous national web list of HD Multicast formats by station is also gone. Both replaced by this: http://www.clearchannelmusic.com/national_radio_tuner/

Says Michael Albl, Vice President of Programming/General Manager, The Format Lab: "We are providing the content for all non-station originated channel streaming for the new CCOMR music portal iheartradio.com. This includes erockster, real oldies, slow jams, smooth jazz and other channels. The Format Lab is in fact providing daily programming to over 300 HD, AM and FM stations as well as 10 XM radio channels plus Sprint mSpot radio."

So bottom line, the Format Lab is no longer available on the web and has cut some of its formats down to the most successful/desirable. The www.iHeartMusic.com website seems to only list the main audio streams of CC stations--not multicast HD formats--but does offer a few off to the side: erockster; Pride; Verizon New Music; Smooth Jazz; Real Oldies; Slow Jams and New Country. There used to be something close to 100 formats listed on the site.

RBR/TVBR observation: Really, the next round of budget cuts--out of necessity--is likely going to be HD Radio equipment and licensing renewals. It has cost broadcasters money that so far has not generated ROI. This CC Radio news above, along with the rumors that Citadel has told Engineering not to fix any broken HD transmitters on AM, may be the tip of the iceberg. Have an opinion on this article? Post your comment below.