Audacy has announced the lineup for its new Los Angeles based FM sports outlet. The 97.1 The Fan lineup consists of names that are recognizable with followings based in the Los Angeles area.
What We Know: Los Angeles is getting its first-ever FM all-sports radio station. Audacy updated the official launch date of 97.1 The Fan to May 18 at 6:00 a.m. PT with a full weekday lineup. Three live and local shows will anchor the schedule. Derek Fisher, Cody Decker, Brock Vereen, Alex Curry, Doug McKain, and Bill Reiter lead the on-air talent.
What They Said: Brand Manager Andrew Williams “Los Angeles is a sports powerhouse with a deep connection between teams, fans, and culture, and this new lineup brings together championship-level personalities, veteran player perspective, and sharp analytical expertise. We’re building a full-scale, live and local LA sports network that brings sports to the FM dial and across multiple platforms to meet our audiences where they are. We’re excited to give fans an unparalleled listening and viewing experience that’s as entertaining and authentic as it is insightful.”
What Remains Unclear: Weekend programming and additional daypart plans have not yet been announced. Additionally, the station has yet to announce any rights partnerships with local teams. It’s also unclear whether any simulcast television components will accompany the launch. However, the station will be live streamed on YouTube and Twitch video platforms.
What It Means: In speaking with sources, there is still a lot to uncover about the full makeup of what 97.1 The Fan will bring. For instance, could Audacy shift the broadcasting rights to the FM play by play events to the brand from it’s sister station 93.1 Jack FM. Also, there’s no evening programming listed on the release from the company. By shifting the launch date to May 18, that will allow station management to arrange their plans for the evenings so they can encompass a full 6am-10pm live and local feel. Overall, the roster is a blended mix of sports talk talent with personalities that fit an LA vibe. Will be interested to see what this means for Cody Decker’s podcast with Michelle Beadle as well.
Weekday Daytime Lineup:
- 6:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. PT: “Derek & Decker” with Derek Fisher and Cody Decker
- 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. PT: “Brock & Alex” with Brock Vereen and Alex Curry
- 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. PT: “D-Mac & Reiter” with Doug McKain and Bill Reiter
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John Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.
Hello,
Will you have a show on hockey?
Thanks,
Dale