Radio and Records Mergers in the Making Tuesday, January 25, 2011 By Jerry Del Colliano Comcast has reared its ugly media head already days in advance of taking over operational control of NBC Universal.  It showed Keith Olbermann the door in spite of the fact he is MSNBC’s top rated anchor. TMZ reported Comcast was indeed the devil that dealt with the firing details.  Comcast reportedly was tinkering with NBC Primetime even before the sale closed (unofficially, of course!). That begs the question are we going to see more screwed up businesses in radio and records thanks to venture capitalists? In this article, I’ve got 6 more to tell you about: 1.  A traffic company may get dealt.  Wait until you hear who the buyer may be?  They sure don’t need a traffic operation – or do they? 2.  Clear Channel’s expected refinance of $19.7 billion in debt may lead to the sale of hundreds of stations to de-lever the new debt acquired to pay down the old debt – do you have that?  I’ve got a timeline for you. 3.  I’m looking for the old Bonneville and the former Bonneville management team soon to be operating as Hubbard Radio as potential buyers for a huge major market radio station.  I will reveal the call letters here. 4.  Don’t forget Cumulus – the little engine that couldn’t – may still take a run at Citadel.  What may wind up happening. 5.  That Clear Channel news consolidation – it may be worse than originally thought.  I’ve got details for you. 6.  50% of the major labels are for sale right now with major repercussions for the music industry. I handicap it for you. This article is about the disturbing but growing influence of investment bankers in radio and records and how they may reshape these and other media industries over the next 12 months. If you would like to read this story, have access to my entire archive (over 1,100 pieces) and get the next month of my writing included, click “read more” for your choices.  Thank you for your support of my Media Solutions Lab that will be presented this Thursday.  The big changes ahead will be revealed and you are welcomed to attend.  Register here. Read more at Inside Music Media Join Jerry's Study Group This year every attendee of the January 27, 2011 Media Solutions Lab will have the option of joining my Study Group to continue the dialogue for the next 12 months as a free benefit. I will post additional content from time to time on this media network and you can reply and join the discussion.  The Study Group is available only to paid registrants of my conferences and professional meetings. The one-day Media Solutions Lab includes my 10 predictions for 2011 that will critically impact radio, the music industry, new media and social networking.   I will also do a presentation on the importance of understanding generational media before making costly business decisions. In the afternoon, four Innovation Labs will be operating – you get to choose the one that fits your goals and participate hands-on. XM and Tribune Creative DirectorLee Abrams facilitates one group on “Creating New Content for the iPad”. Bonneville/WTOP executive Jim Farley leads “Inventing the Digital Station of the Future”. Public Radio/WHYY, Philadelphia’s Chris Satullo brainstorms on “Harnessing Hyperlocal Media” – the hot, new neighborhood-targeted local solution for radio, TV, publishing and online media. Former SoundExchange Executive Director John Simson conducts a think tank on “Ways to Live with Music Royalties” – critical to would-be streamers and users of music in new media. Breakfast, lunch and breaks are included.  This is a non-commercial event so no sponsors will bend your ear or influence the day’s content.  The Media Solutions Lab is supported solely by your registrations. You can’t afford not to attend if you plan on being part of music and media’s new direction that will unfold in the 12 months ahead. And don’t forget – the only way to become part of Jerry’s Study Group for the next year is to make the investment in your career and attend the 2011 Media Solutions Lab. If you haven’t already registered for the upcoming Media Solutions Lab at The Phoenician Resort Thursday, January 27th in Scottsdale, please check out the entire program and register today. You are receiving this email because you are a subscriber to Inside Music Media Click here to unsubscribe or manage your account.