Local Radio Networks Launches ''Superstar Country''

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, April 16, 2018 | 1:51pm CT

Local Radio Networks

Local Radio Networks (LRN) announces the launch of "Superstar Country," its newest 24/7 music format with localization and country radio talent. The new format features hits from the 80's through today, with a focus on country stars and icons from the 1990s through 2000s, such as George Strait, Kenny Chesney, Brooks & Dunn, Alan Jackson, Garth Brooks, Keith Urban and more. Superstar Country also blends in current hits that are authentic to the country sound and targets a core 35-49 country radio audience, with a reach that includes the 25-54 demographic.

"We've rounded up the best national country radio talent and combined their voices with the most popular hits from the biggest country music stars, all with maximum localization," said Local Radio Networks VP/Programming Chris Reeves.

Hosts of LRN's Superstar Country include:

• Craig "Catfish" Hunter, previous Jones Radio Network and local Denver, Atlanta, San Jose and Tampa on-air personality, will be the afternoon drive host
• Maria "ChaCha" Chavez, former Westwood One Radio Networks and longtime Denver on-air host, will take on midday duties
• Jenny D, previous Westwood One Radio Networks local Denver on-air talent, will be the evening host

With the addition of Superstar Country, LRN now offers thirteen 24/7 music formats. AdLarge Media provides national ad sales representation for LRN's 24/7 music radio formats.

Radio Hall of Fame Announces 2026 Nominees Radio Hall of Fame The Museum of Broadcast Communications has announced the 24 nominees for the 2026 Radio Hall of Fame class. Nominees were selected by the Radio Hall of Fame Nominating Committee, with input from both industry professionals and listeners. Voting will begin April 24 and run through More

Cumulus Names Bill Smith VP/Market Mgr in Oxnard Bill Smith Cumulus Media has appointed William E. "Bill" Smith as Vice President and Market Manager for its Oxnard-Ventura, CA, operations. Smith joins Cumulus from American General Media, where he served as General Manager of its Bakersfield stations. His previous experience includes roles as Local Sales Manager for More

Gator Harrison Named K-LOVE Chief Media Officer Gator Harrison K-LOVE has named Gator Harrison as Chief Media Officer, overseeing the K-LOVE and Air1 radio networks, as well as live events and partnerships. Harrison joins the organization after a nearly 40-year career in radio, most recently serving as Senior Vice President of Programming at iHeartMedia. His background More

Mike McVay Honored with MIW Impact Award Mike McVay Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio (MIW) has named Mike McVay, President of McVay Media, as the recipient of the third annual Erica Farber Impact Award. The award recognizes individuals who contribute time, expertise and resources to drive meaningful change and support industry advancement. McVay was More

S&P: Podcast Listening Jumps as Video Drives Growth S&P Global Market Intelligence Podcast consumption in the U.S. continues to expand, with nearly 60% of online adults now reporting they listen to podcasts, according to a new analysis from S&P Global Market Intelligence. The report shows a 10-percentage-point increase in early 2026, driven in part by the growing influence of video podcast More

Bleav Adds Alvarez, Waller to Ad Leadership Maryann Alvarez and Gretchen Waller Bleav has expanded its advertising leadership team with the hiring of Maryann Alvarez (far left) and Gretchen Waller as Directors of Partnerships. Alvarez and Waller will be responsible for developing partnerships with brands and agencies, while driving sponsorship, advertising More