A unified experience
iHeartMedia is looking ahead to July 4, which this year will mark America’s 250th birthday. The radio/audio behemoth is planning a “unified national radio experience” in partnership with America250, a bipartisan celebratory initiative. The plan includes a two-day “shared soundtrack” synchronized across over 800 radio stations (and, of course, the iHeartRadio app). A livestream of major celebrations will be produced. The production is planned to reach 90% of Americans. Promotion of iHeart’s plans informs us that there will be a Times Square ball drop at midnight on July 3rd — that will kick off iHeart’s coverage.
Canadian Junos
The 2026 Juno Awards, the annual celebration of Canadian music, completed yesterday in Hamilton, Ontario. The event was hosted by Canadian comedian, actor, and screenwriter Mae Martin. It was a good night for singer/songwriter Tate MaRae, who took home four best-of awards: Artist, Single, Album and Pop Album. Juno history was made when The Beaches became the first all-woman band to win Group Of The Year in a third straight year. Breakthrough Artists was Cameron Whitcomb, a graduate of the American Idol star-making machinery. One more standout who went home heavy with Juno statuary: Daniel Caesar for Songwriter, Contemporary R&B Recording, and International Achievement. A full rundown of bestowals is HERE.
