Jebediah had his snicker moment earlier today, now it is my turn
(CNSNews.com) – A liberal talk radio network founded more than three years ago as an alternative to conservatives such as Rush Limbaugh is undergoing a "relaunch" this week, though media analysts say "the marketplace will tell the story" of whether the revamp will succeed in the long run.
The Air America Radio Network this week began syndicating on 64 stations nationwide and XM satellite a retooled lineup of programs, introduced a more interactive website and launched an "I’m an Air American!" advertising campaign involving liberal celebrities.
It’s all part of what the network in a press release called "the official relaunch of Air America 2.0."
"Air America is about one thing: radio," the new morning show host stated, "radio that’s an alternative to the usual, bumper sticker Rush wannabe."
Now, is it possible to have a really serious discussion after that? "I’m an Air American!" Sounds like a bumper sticker slogan to me. And sales can be expected in the dozens! Actually, they will probably be given away, especially with donations.
"You have to look at Air America in context. Too many people have said, ‘Look, it’s liberal. It failed,’ as if that’s why,"Michael Harrison, publisher of Talkers magazine said. "The fact that they’re liberal or progressive is irrelevant to me. It has to do with talent and a good business plan."
Perhaps. Being liberal does have something to do with it. Past failures show that liberal radio is well, boring. Very few host are fun, and interesting to listen to. They tend to be ant-this and that, rather then for anything. They tend to be non-stop hard core, with little extra. Do Rush, Hannity, Boortz, et all spend 100% of their time in a rage, or do they find other things to discuss, and have fun with? Yup.
Roger Aronoff, media analyst with the conservative group Accuracy in Media, agreed on Tuesday that the network is "making smart moves" in "attempting to reinvent and relaunch itself as a credible voice in the marketplace of ideas."
"The real test, however, will be the test of time," Aronoff told Cybercast News Service. "Will it succeed as a business, or will it require George Soros and other left-wing sugar daddies to bail it out, to keep it relevant and operating through next year’s election?
Considering that there are few ideas other then "we hate Bush!" from the existing hosts, and certainly those who run it, not much will change. Even liberals would rather listen to Rush, Hannity, etc, then Air America.
Hate and anger only go so far. Which is why Air Deadbeat is where it is today. The best thing I can say its, tune in one day, particularly to Randi Rhodes, and just feel the love.
BTW, their website is not very interactive. Matter of fact, it is worse then before.
People were excited about the launch of the Titanic, too!
