Keith Cunningham

95 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.

The Dianna Russini Story Had 20 Angles — Did Your Music Radio Show Find Three?

No one has to celebrate the mess of a potential scandal, but the key is having relatability to what the audience is already talking about — and even opening their minds to things they haven't considered yet.

The Industry According To….Pat Paxton, Saga Communications

"There is some amazing radio being done in smaller markets. Incredibly talented people who could be working in major markets but choose not to. I think they are underappreciated and underestimated in our industry."

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.

Breaking

iHeart Media Reshuffles Hot 99.5 and Z104.3 Lineups After Fred Show Launch

"iHeart is clearly investing in Gomez, moving him into a higher-profile slot — a vote of confidence in his growing company role."

Provident Entertainment Promotes Josie Hardin and Reagan Hughes to Director Roles

"A unique combination of strategic thinking, marketing expertise, and genuine passion for both our artists and industry."

‘Move the Sticks’ Podcast Officially Comes to an End

"It's been a fantastic run for the MTS podcast. Partnering with a respected colleague and friend on 1K+ episodes has been a career milestone."

Five ESPN Studio Programs Earn Best May Viewership Ever

"PTI led all studio shows with 703K viewers, its best May since 2019."