Keith Cunningham

138 POSTS
Keith Cunningham is a music industry and Rock/Alternative columnist for Barrett Media and the founder of Black Box Group, a modern-modeled creative & strategic consultancy built for brands that need strategies with teeth. He’s the former Master of Mayhem at 95.5 KLOS-FM in Los Angeles for over a decade, a nationwide consultant, and has been repeatedly voted one of America’s top Program Directors and strategic thinkers. Keith has built his career by taking multi-million-dollar brands from worst to first and leading Marconi & Gracie award winners along the way. A data nerd with a rock-and-roll heart, he is an advisory council member for St. Jude fundraising, a fantasy football champion, and lover of his daughters & dogs. Reach him at keithblackboxgroup@gmail.com or on LinkedIn or X.

Own the Chaos: Why Imperfection Is Rock Radio’s Greatest Asset

Own your issues. Own the moments that go sideways. Because those create better moments than any perfect tease can.

The Industry According To….Randy Lane, The Randy Lane Company

"If you want ratings and revenue, the radio show must be priority #1. The ROI still favors the show first and digital as an important second."

What If the Next New Rock Radio Hit Isn’t New at All?

To be clear, this is not a call for being the "deep cut" and "B-side" station or format. This is far more strategic.

The Industry According To….Kevin LeGrett, Beasley Media Group

"We have a much more intentional mission: to be the most effective, highly trained marketing team in the local markets we serve."

How Rock Radio Can Still Be the One That Matters to the Next Arena Act

Programmers have to be honest with themselves: a lot of the "new" music being played on RockTernative stations isn't "new" to many listeners. Calling it "new" doesn't make it a discovery if the audience already knows it.

Breaking

Why Gordon Borrell Believes Digital Is Winning Over Local Advertisers

“It comes with statistics. You place a radio ad, and the station can’t tell you how many people heard it, how many people liked the ad or liked the program.”

Why Heidi Raphael Returned Home to Lead the New York State Broadcasters Association

“I have met and worked with so many wonderful people. I don’t take that for granted. I’m grateful every single day.”

Bru’s Rocket Ride: From Polka Hour to Coast-to-Coast Radio

"It was one of those places where I really got to mess up and find my voice,"

MLB Network’s Intentional Talk Reversal Proves Connection Is Media’s Most Valuable Currency

"Intentional Talk has become, and continues to be, your favorite baseball player's favorite baseball show."