Townsquare, CMP Partner for ''XXL Higher Level Radio''

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, November 14, 2019

Townsquare Media and Compass Media Networks

Townsquare Media and Compass Media Networks have launched a new syndicated radio show, "XXL Higher Level Radio," tied to Townsquare's XXL Magazine, website and app. The show debuted Monday November 11 and airs 7pm-midnight on nine of its Urban stations. Hosted by DJ Wire of Townsquare's WBLK/Buffalo, the show features artist interviews, hip-hop news from the XXL news desk, DJ mixes and a countdown of top hits. The show's music playlist will largely be driven by data culled from the XXL website, mobile app and social media.

The show will also feature content from the annual XXL Freshman Class, the brand's list of the hottest new artists in hip-hop, whose alumni includes Kendrick Lamar, Travis Scott, Chance the Rapper, Big Sean, Future, J.Cole, Meek Mill, Wiz Khalifa and Logic.

XXL has been a dominant voice in hip-hop for over 20 years, documenting and influencing the culture and music since 1997. The brand reaches over 6 million unique visitors every month via XXLMag.com and the XXL mobile app, and has amassed over 9 million followers on social media. XXL's YouTube channel has over 3 million subscribers, and Lil Baby and Juice WRLD grace the cover of the current issue of XXL Magazine.

Townsquare SVP of Digital Jared Willig said, "When Townsquare acquired XXL Magazine in 2014, our mission was to expand the iconic brand via social, video, podcasting, events and more while maintaining the core print magazine which is so important to the community. 'XXL Higher Level Radio' is the next phase of that strategy, and like the XXL brand itself, we are excited for it to be influential, interactive and digital-forward."

XXL Magazine Editor-in-Chief Vanessa Satten, who has led the brand for over a decade, added, "'XXL Higher Level Radio' is an exciting extension for us that will both respect and celebrate hip-hop like our website and magazine do. The music comes first and this show will not only highlight who and what everyone is listening to, but showcase stars of the future as well."

"We're thrilled to bring a fresh new show to the Urban weeknight radio landscape," commented Townsquare SVP of Programming Kurt Johnson.