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Jul-06-2008Making sense of Rush Limbaugh's $400 million deal(topic overview)
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In an unprecedented deal, conservative radio commentator and postmodern Grand Inquisitor Rush Limbaugh, 57, has signed a $400 million contract with a subsidiary of corporate media monster Clear Channel to keep his talk show on the air through 2016. Rush, whose three-hour exercise in political science is heard by nearly 20 million people a week on 600 radio stations (surely its popularity is a sign of its righteousness?), tells the New York Times his deal breaks down to $38 mil a year plus a $100 mil signing bonus. "This is exactly where I want to be, doing what I was born to do, with an amazing audience," Rush said in a statement. [1] Rush Limbaugh Renews Contract Until 2016 2-Jul-2008 Written by: Ray Padgett A $400 million deal keeps him with Clear Channel. Renewing his contract with Clear Channel Communications, conservative radio talk show host Rush Limbaugh signed a deal that will keep his broadcasts going until 2016. Reportedly worth $400 million, the company announced the deal Wednesday with its syndication subsidiary, Premiere Radio Networks. Limbaugh will receive $38 million a year for the eight years, plus a $100 million signing bonus, he told the New York Times Magazine.[2] Boston (ChattahBox) - Radio personality Rush Limbaugh has managed to sign a new contract which will keep him on the air until the year 2016. He will be getting a nine-figure bonus, in a deal worth a total of $400 million. The 57-year old Rush Limbaugh has been confirmed to have renewed his contract with Clear Channel Radio, and its syndicating arm Premiere Radio Networks. He told the New York Times that his contract would pay him $38 million a year for 8-years, and give a signing bonus which is believed to be $100 million. Limbaugh's national radio show is getting set to celebrate its 20th anniversary this August. His existing nine-year contract for $225 million was set to expire in 2009. This is one of the most lucrative deals in the history of radio, but is still behind radio icon Howard Stern, who received $500 million over five-years with Sirius Satellite Radio. Share and Enjoy: These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.[3]
Apparently we went all wrong going into blogging. the money's in radio! Who thought a political radio show host made this much dough? Conservative commentator Rush Limbaugh just snagged himself about a $400 million deal with Premiere Radio Networks - and he gets to work from home. Limbaugh signed on with Clear Channel Radio for another eight years, penning a deal that gets him $38 million per year plus a six-figure signon bonus. Rush gave this information to the New York Times for an article to be published Sunday, according to the AP.[4] July 3 (Reuters) - Conservative talk radio host Rush Limbaugh signed an eight-year contract extension worth as much as $400 million with Clear Channel Communications Inc, The New York Times said on its website on Wednesday citing an interview with Limbaugh. Clear Channel said on Wednesday that Limbaugh renewed his contract with units Premiere Radio Networks and Clear Channel Radio, but did not disclose financial details. Limbaugh's paycheck of $50 million a year represents a raise of about $14.4 million a year over his current contract, which was paying him $285 million over eight years and was set to expire in 2009, the newspaper's website said. Separately, Clear Channel's Premiere is in advanced talks with another conservative talk radio host Sean Hannity to try to sign him for an eight-year contract worth about $200 million, The Wall Street Journal said, citing a person familiar with the situation.[5] Limbaugh Renews Contract with Clear Channel 2-Jul-2008 Written by: Justin Zaremba Rush Limbaugh renewed his contract, which is estimated to be worth $400 million, with Clear Channel, through 2016. The conservative talk radio host, Rush Limbaugh, renewed his contract, which is estimated to be worth $400 million, through 2016, with Clear Channel Communications, and its subsidiary, Premiere Radio Networks, the NY Times reports. Limbaugh's new contract will pay him about $38 million a year for eight years, along with a $100 million signing bonus.[6]
Conservative radio talk-show host Rush Limbaugh Wednesday inked an eight-year contract for around $400 million, underscoring how radio is spending big sums on bankable talent to compete in the crowded entertainment field. Mr. Limbaugh's compensation of $38 million a year, plus a signing bonus of about $100 million is less in absolute terms than the five-year, $500 million contract Howard Stern cut in 2004 with Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. But Mr. Limbaugh's contract could net him more, as Mr. Stern must pay costs for his cast and production. It's a big jump from Mr. Limbaugh's last contract, which at $285 million was a record for a radio personality when he signed it in 2001. The weekly audience for his three-hour midday show has held steady at about 20 million listeners, according to his syndicator, Clear Channel Communications Inc.' s Premiere Radio Networks.[7] Conservative radio host Rush Limbaugh signed an eight-year contract extension with Clear Channel Radio and Premiere Radio Networks, estimated to be worth more than $400 million. The deal comes as Limbaugh prepares to celebrate his 20 th year on the air this August. "This is exactly where I want to be, doing what I was born to do, with an amazing audience and phenomenal support from affiliate stations and sponsors," Limbaugh said in a statement.[8] New York, NY (AHN) - Rush Limbaugh signed a new contract with Premiere Radio Networks, keeping him on air until 2016. The deal comes as Limbaugh nears his 20th anniversary as one of radio's most dominant talk show hosts. His three-hour show is broadcast on roughly 600 radio stations across the nation. Premiere did not disclose details of the contract, but Limbaugh told the New York Times he would make roughly $38 million a year. "This is exactly where I want to be, doing what I was born to do, with an amazing audience and phenomenal support from affiliate stations and sponsors," Limbaugh said in a statement, according to the Associated Press.[9] Rush's Deal Worth $400 Million NEW YORK -- July 3, 2008: In an interview with the New York Times, due in Sunday's magazine section and on the paper's website now, Premiere Radio Networks host Rush Limbaugh estimates that his newly signed deal with the Clear Channel-owned syndicator will bring him about $38 million a year, along with a nine-figure signing bonus.[10]
Rush Limbaugh, the conservative political commentator, has signed a record-breaking $400 million (£200m) eight-year contract to continue to present his talk show on American radio. Limbaugh, 57, told the New York Times the new contract with Clear Channel Communications will pay him about $38 million a year. He said he would also receive a $100 million signing bonus.[11] To paraphrase Bob Dylan, Rush Limbaugh is not my cup of meat, but I have to salute him for making the free enterprise system work for him, to the tune of a $400 million contract extension for the next eight years. That's a pretty dang enormous deal for one guy, comparable only to Howard Stern's deal for $500 million for five years at Sirius. (Plus, Stern has to pay his show's labor and production costs out of his own pocket.) Now, I know a lot of people are scratching their heads over this, since $400 million seems like quite a gamble for Clear Channel to spend at a time when its own revenues are declining, and on a guy with a well-known history of health problems (including deafness and drug addiction) and whose conservative shtick seems to be going against the prevailing political winds.[12] Specifics of the pact were not disclosed, but reports estimated the value of the contract at as much as $400 million. Deal covers his daily 'The Rush Limbaugh Show,' which is broadcast on more than 600 stations. He'll continue his 90-second weekday commentary segs, 'The Rush Limbaugh Morning Update,' plus a monthly newsletter. Next month Limbaugh will celebrate the 20th anniversary of his radio show, which is heard by some 20 million listeners, making it the highest-rated talkshow in the country. 'This is exactly where I want to be, doing what I was born to do, with phenomenal support from affiliate stations and sponsors,' Limbaugh said. In 2004, Howard Stern signed a $100 million contract for five years when he moved to Sirius Satellite Radio, but that money also went to pay for staff and production costs. Other top talkshow hosts on Premiere's airwaves include Jim Rome, Ryan Seacrest and Glenn Beck.[13] When it comes to Rush Limbaugh's own speech, 'free' could not be further from the truth. The Right-wing presenter, known as 'the most dangerous man in America', has just signed a '200million eight-year deal which will make him one of the country's highest paid broadcasters. His '25million a year contract dwarfs that of the BBC presenter Jonathan Ross, whose '18million over three years has caused controversy in the UK. The Rush Limbaugh Show, famed for its host's coarse humour and conservative views, is broadcast on around 600 stations and attracts 20million listeners a week. Clear Channel Radio, the makers of the show, are confident that Limbaugh provides them with value for money, particularly as audiences elsewhere are falling.[14] "I'm having more fun than a human being should be allowed to have," says Rush. Only a small, framed picture of Limbaugh, bearing the caption 'America's Anchorman,' reveals that this is the headquarters of one of the country's most admired and reviled figures.'" LOS ANGELES, July 2, 2008 -- Rush Limbaugh, who's heard weekly by nearly 20 million listeners on about 600 radio stations nationwide, renewed his contract with Premiere Radio Networks and Clear Channel Radio, continuing syndication of The Rush Limbaugh Show many years into the future.[15]
Frankfurt, Germany German industrial conglomerate Siemens AG said Wednesday that it planned to cut jobs as a result of the economic downturn but didn't specify the number of positions. Media reports previously said the company would slash up to 4 percent of its work force worldwide, or about 17,200 jobs. Striking a deal estimated to be worth $400 million through 2016, conservative talk radio host Rush Limbaugh has renewed his contract with Clear Channel Communications and its syndication subsidiary, Premiere Radio Networks.[16] Media reports here and everywhere are that Rush Limbaugh agreed yesterday to stay on the air for at least eight more years, for a deal worth more than $400 million, including a $100 million signing bonus. It's always nice to see excellence - including Excellence in Broadcasting (EIB) - recognized. Because Rush is involved in the day-to-day political debate and has been such an important presence for two decades now, it's easy to lose sight of all he has achieved. He is the man who almost single-handedly saved AM radio. He was the original embodiment of the "new media." He is the trailblazer in a profession - conservative talk radio - that is now flourishing, both nationally and locally, and which has become part of our political landscape. Limbaugh's contributions have been enormous, and in twenty years he has never lost his appeal or audience support He's still at the top of his game. In that sense, he reminds me of Johnny Carson, who dominated late night television every night he was on and gave an assist to many others along the way. You know what? He's worth every penny.[17]
Hollywood (ECN) - Rush Limbaugh has signed a deal to stay on the air until the year 2016. Rush Limbaugh is getting ready to near his 20th anniversary as one of talk radio's biggest figured, along with Howard Stern and others. He has signed a lucrative deal with Premiere Radio Networks which will have him on the air until 2016. The details of the deal were not disclosed as of Wednesday, but Limbaugh told the New York Times that he would be getting a nine-figure signing bonus.[18] Limbaugh has been a force in talk radio for 20 years. Details of the deal were not released by Premiere, however Limbaugh told The New York Times in an article that will be published Sunday, that he will be getting a nine-figure signing bonus which would earn him about $38 million a year. Limbaugh's three-hour show is broadcast from his office in Florida and is heard on some 600 radio stations across the country.[19] The deal is for 8 years, through 2016, and is worth $400 million. He'll be paid $38 million per year, and he told the New York Times that he'll receive a $100 million signing bonus. Limbaugh's radio show is heard on 600 radio stations across the country, including locally on 970 WFLA, weekdays from noon-3 PM. His show is number-1 in the ratings, with 20 million listeners weekly.[20]
Limbaugh himself stated that "I'm having more fun than a human being should be allowed to have." It had better be a lot. As the New York Times Magazine profile points out, he drives a black Maybach 57s, which costs in the neighborhood of $450,000, and has another half dozen similar cars on his estate. He also recently bought a Gulfstream G550 for about $54 million, the magazine said. Limbaugh can afford to live the way he wants. When we met he was on the verge of signing a new eight-year contract with his syndicator, Premiere Radio Networks. He estimated that it would bring in about $38 million a year. To sweeten the deal, he said he was also getting a nine-figure signing bonus.[21] I have a fine-tuned sense of the absurd, and I don't expect fairness or meaning from life. This mindset insulates me from life's many trials and tribulations. That's why I didn't have a nervous breakdown when I heard that blowhard Rush Limbaugh has a new $400 million contract. "Rush Limbaugh will make about $38 million a year to continue his radio show over the next eight years. He says will be getting a nine-figure signing bonus from Premiere Radio Networks.[22] Clear Channel's Premiere Radio Networks is giving talk radio powerhouse Rush Limbaugh mega-dollars in a new multi-year contract extension worth a reported $400 million.[23] "I consider myself a defender of corporate America," Limbaugh tells the Times. No sponsor ever need worry that its ad will appear alongside a rant about downsizing, pollution, price-gouging, or other corporate bad behavior. (This is also, conversely, one reason why liberal talk radio hasn't prospered: sponsors are afraid to support what they fear will be a hostile environment for their ads.) It's probably worth it for Clear Channel to pay him an exorbitant sum of money (and to let its competitors know how eager it was to break the bank to satisfy him) than to risk losing him to another radio network when his current contract expires. Maybe the big windfall is a signal to advertisers that Clear Channel (whose radio revenues dropped $30 million in the first quarter of this year) and radio itself are still strong and viable. They can afford to pay this guy $400 million ''' and he's just the help.[12]
With a New York Times Magazine profile just published online, right-wing radio host Rush Limbaugh signs a $400 million contract with Clear Channel Communications to continue broadcasting through 2016. The $38-million-a-year deal equals a raise of more than $14 million over his current contract.[24] For those of you who can't envision an election season without Rush Limbaugh's fair and balanced political perspective, fear not. On the eve of The Rush Limbaugh Show's 20th anniversary, the conservative talk-radio host has signed an estimated $400 million deal with Clear Channel Communications that will keep him on the air through 2016, the New York Times reported Wednesday.[25] The New York Times is giving an early look at Zev Chafets' wonderful, fair-minded, up-to-the-second Sunday Magazine story about Rush Limbaugh, who just signed a career-defining deal with Clear Channel that should pay him $400 million to continue broadcasting through 2016. El Rushbo let down his guard for the Times' second-best chronicler of the conversative movement (after Sam Tanenhaus), and it paid off hugely. This is an archival document in the chronology of a true American success story, a broadcaster I have never failed to admire even as I wonder how anyone can take anything he says seriously. I really can't believe that Michael Wolff actually thinks Limbaugh's not worth a large chunk of change, as he argued today on CNBC. C'mon, Michael ''' a party reboot in Washington isn't going to affect the way Rush's show is received in Kansas City or Spokane or Phoenix.[26]
The conservative talk-radio host has signed an estimated $400 million deal with Clear Channel Communications through 2016. Next month, Rush Limbaugh will celebrate the 20th anniversary of his radio show, 'The Rush Limbaugh Show,' which is broadcast in more than 600 stations[27] Conservative radio host Rush Limbaugh has signed a new long-term deal with Premiere Radio Networks and Clear Channel Radio, officials said today. The financial terms of the contract were not disclosed by Premiere Radio Networks, which announced the deal on its website. It includes his daily show and 90 second "Rush Limbaugh Morning Update" feature.[28] LOS ANGELES (Radio & Records) - Rush Limbaugh and Clear Channel's Premiere Radio Networks have agreed to a contract extension that will pay the conservative talk-radio pundit more than $400 million through 2016.[29] Rush Limbaugh and Clear Channel's Premiere Radio Networks have reached a deal for an extension that will earn the talk-radio analyst more than $400 million over the next eight years.[30]
Clear Channel and Premiere Radio have inked a $400 million dollar deal guaranteeing the host a gig through 2016, reports Matt Drudge. Drudge describes the deal as "an unprecedented radio contract, Limbaugh will keep his syndicated show on-the-air and e-v-e-r-y-w-h-e-r-e through 2016."[31] Drudge didn't return an e-mail. Limbaugh, 57, told the magazine his new contract would pay him 38 million a year for eight years and give him a 100 million signing bonus. His newest airplane, a Gulfstream G550, he said, cost 54 million. Clear Channel Radio and its syndicating arm Premiere Radio Networks said yesterday that Limbaugh had renewed his contract and his show would be heard for "many years into the future" but didn't release any of the financial details.[32] A powerhouse in radio since he began his national show in 1988, Limbaugh has renewed his contract with Premiere Radio Networks and Clear Channel Radio AND has landed on the cover of the Sunday New York Times Magazine.[21]
The American broadcast industry is rocked, realigned and blasted into a new orbit, yet again, by Rush Limbaugh, the DRUDGE REPORT has learned. In what is being described as an unprecedented radio contract, Limbaugh will keep his syndicated show on-the-air and e-v-e-r-y-w-h-e-r-e through 2016 with CLEAR CHANNEL and PREMIERE RADIO.[33] Talk radio giant Rush Limbaugh renewed his contract with Premier Radio Networks and Clear Channel Radio, continuing syndication of The Rush Limbaugh Show, according to a press release on RushLimbaugh.com ]] RushLimbaugh.com. The program will celebrate 20 years on-air in August of this year. "This is exactly where I want to be, doing what I was born to do, with an amazing audience and phenomenal support from affiliate stations and sponsors," Limbaugh said on his Web site.[34] Clear Channel CEO John Hogan called Limbaugh, whose conservative talk show is syndicated on 600 radio stations nationwide, a "once in a lifetime" broadcaster. "He has an unmatched platform of station affiliates," Premiere President Charlie Rahilly told The Post. "From an audience standpoint, no national talent reaches the kind of numbers he reaches, and over the last few years, in terms of sponsors, Rush has really figured out a way to sell people's products like crazy."[23]
I think it makes business sense for a few reasons. The coming election results won't matter a whit to his ability to do what he does best: work up an outrage over politics. He's dissed both Obama and McCain in the past, so whoever wins, he'll still get to play the aggrieved victim. The size of his listenership doesn't really matter. (It's been estimated at between 14 to 20 million listeners a week on 600 stations; in any case, no other radio personality comes close to his numbers.) For the last 20 years, he's had a loyal core of "dittoheads" who'll follow him whether his ideology is in the ascendancy or on the wane. A station that puts Limbaugh on the air figures it can build an entire slate of like-minded talk shows around him, figuring that if his listeners will come for him, they'll stay for the rest. What's important, from an industry standpoint, is Limbaugh's ability to deliver those listeners to advertisers. In the fascinating profile of Limbaugh that runs this weekend in the New York Times (but is already available online ), Limbaugh says that he's a businessman first, and his priority is to sell airtime. What's more, the big-ticket sponsors who advertise on his show know it's a friendly environment for a pro-corporate, consumerist message.[12] Premiere wouldn't disclose details of the deal but Limbaugh gave the information to The New York Times for an article to be published Sunday. Limbaugh's three-hour show, broadcast from his office in Florida, is heard on some 600 radio stations across the country. More than 14 million people listen to him at least once a week, according to Talkers magazine.[22] Limbaugh, the Heartland Hero host of what Drudge calls "the most lucrative hours since radio's inception," has a total package of more $400 million, according to media insiders. The New York Times flagged the news to Drudge that Limbaugh, marking 20 years this summer as a national host, has secured a nine-figure signing bonus for the new deal.[35] According to The New York Times, Limbaugh's deal is overshadowed only by Sirius Satellite Radio personality Howard Stern, who signed a contract for $100 million for five years in 2004.[34] The new deal is believed to be the most lucrative contract in radio since 2004, when Sirius Satellite Radio paid Howard Stern $500 million for five years, which factored in production, studio and staff costs. Limbaugh, 'the best talent on the air in modern broadcasting,' as Michael Harrison, the editor of the radio industry publication Talkers Magazine named him, said his goal is to attract the largest possible audience. 'This is exactly where I want to be, doing what I was born to do, with an amazing audience and phenomenal support from affiliate stations and sponsors,' the conservative host said.[27] After almost 20 years in national syndication, Limbaugh, 57, remains the most popular personality on talk radio, as well as an influential voice among conservatives. His program commands a weekly audience of nearly 20 million listeners on 600 stations, according to Premiere, which markets his program to stations and advertisers. Limbaugh said he would earn about $38 million annually under the deal, in addition to a "nine-figure" signing bonus. "I'm not retiring until every American agrees with me," Limbaugh, 57, said on his radio program Wednesday.[36] Now that Clear Channel and Premiere Radio have ponied up a near $38 million a year salary, along with a nine figure signing bonus, the frequently controversial Limbaugh is looking to spend. The first item on his shopping list? Limbaugh told listeners on his program today that he'll be purchasing a new Gulfstream G-550 jet. Depending on options, and how long he wants to wait for his order, the intercontinental range jet will set him back somewhere between $45 million and $70 million.[37] With fully $100 million guaranteed up front, according to Brian Maloney. Why not? No matter who wins in November, he'll be on the offensive for the next two terms. In what is being described as an unprecedented radio contract, Limbaugh will keep his syndicated show on-the-air and e-v-e-r-y-w-h-e-r-e through 2016 with CLEAR CHANNEL and PREMIERE RADIO.[38] Conservative talk-show host Rush Limbaugh recently renewed his contract with Premiere Radio Networks and Clear Channel Radio.[39] Conservative talk radio host Rush Limbaugh, has signed a new contract with Clear Channel Communications.[20] It's no secret that Talk Radio host extraordinaire Rush Limbaugh has revolutionized the alternative media. With his new contract, it appears that Rush is once again on the cutting edge of societal evolution, and has once again laid down the gauntlet that he is light years ahead of his competition. What's so amazing is that in an era when traditional media is having all kinds of problems, whether it's declining newspaper sales, or declining ratings for the nightly news, the man who sits behind the golden EIB microphone is forging ahead as if nothing is happening.[40]
Conservative radio talk show host Rush Limbaugh cashed in with a record $400 million contract that will extend his time on the airwaves through 2016.[37] Talk was never cheap for Rush Limbaugh, but now it is getting a lot more expensive. The AM-radio host will be paid about $400 million to continue serving up his daily dose of conservative patter through 2016. His $50-million-a-year paycheck represents a raise of about $14.4 million a year over his present contract, which was paying him $285 million over eight years and was set to expire in 2009.[36]
B ay State blogger Brian Maloney was the first to report on conservative talk show host Rush Limbaugh's jaw-dropping radio deal that's worth a reported 400 million.[32] New York, NY (CNS) - Talk show host Rush Limbaugh has signed a lucrative new deal with Premiere Radio Networks that will keep him on-air until 2016.[19] Rush Re-Ups With Premiere LOS ANGELES -- July 2, 2008: Premiere Radio Networks announced this morning that Rush Limbaugh has signed a new deal that will keep Premiere as his syndication home for "many years into the future."[41]
The Rush Limbaugh show is heard weekly by nearly 20 million listeners over approximately 600 radio stations nationwide, and according to Chars Rahilly, president of Premiere Radio Networks, advertising an affiliate demand is at an all-time high for Limbaugh.[34] Limbaugh's program, which reaches an audience of nearly 20 million listeners, is syndicated on about 600 radio stations nationwide and the contract renewal will assure that The Rush Limbaugh Show continues for several years to come.[6] One of the highest-rated programs on radio, the daily three-hour "The Rush Limbaugh Show" reaches about 20 million listeners weekly and plays on about 600 stations nationwide. "This is exactly where I want to be, doing what I was born to do, with an amazing audience and phenomenal support from affiliate stations and sponsors," Limbaugh said.[29]
"The Rush Limbaugh Show" daily radio program has had a huge success over the last period and managed to catch the attention of approximately 20 million listeners weekly and play on about 600 stations nationwide.[30]
Back in 2001, according to a past USA Today report, Rush Limbaugh signed the richest deal in radio history at the time, an eight-year, $285 million contract. Other sources have reported the earlier deal as being closer to $300 million.[42] "First and foremost, I'm a businessman," Limbaugh told the NY Times Magazine recently, when asked about the very favorable terms of the new agreement, which amounts to the most lucrative contract in radio since Howard Stern inked an unprecedented five-year, $500 million satellite deal (which factored in production, studio and staff costs).[25] The New York Times also reported that Limbaugh also landed a $100 million signing bonus, making Limbaugh's contract the largest terrestrial radio contract ever signed.[34] The contract renewal was announced Wednesday by the companies, and the financial details were provided by Limbaugh in an interview with The New York Times Magazine for an article to be published on Sunday. In the interview, Limbaugh said the new contract would pay him about $38 million a year for eight years. He also said he would receive a $100 million signing bonus.[16] In an interview with The New York Times, Limbaugh said the deal would bring in $38 million a year and came with a nine-figure signing bonus. A company spokeswoman said as a matter of policy they "don't disclose the specific details on any talent agreements."[43]
The lead on Drudge Report right now is Rush Limbaugh 's new mega deal that keeps him on the radio until 2016. Rush is also the subject of the New York Times Magazine cover story set for this Sunday's paper. TVNewser received a tip about this just after midnight from the blog Radio Equalizer.[15]
What do you think? Are you happy about Rush's new contract. Photo: Rush Limbaugh at the premiere of HBO's "Bernard and Doris" in New York earlier this year.[35] Rush Limbaugh's big mouth has paid off; the conservative radio show host has broken records with his new contract.[31] "The era of conservative radio domination is over," said an anonymous spokesman for the consortium, " Rush Limbaugh is the last of a dying breed, and with Barack Obama in the White House, Americans are ready and eager for a new talk king, or queen, with a liberal perspective."[44] Too late. the word's out now! And the commentator with the second largest audience? Sean Hannity, conservative commentator for ABC Radio Networks. Yup, he's got a foot in each network - it's the same Hannity of FOX's Hannity & Colmes and FOX News Channel's Hannity's America. Does this mean conservatives listen to radio talk more often, or that there aren't enough liberals out there? And how in the world is talking from home for three hours a day worth $38 million a year? The rich just keep getting richer.[4] Advertisers are increasingly anxious to reach that audience. Mr. Limbaugh's show is the nation's most-listened-to, followed by fellow conservative Sean Hannity's show, distributed by ABC Radio Networks, a division of Citadel Broadcasting Corp. Premiere is in advanced talks with Mr. Hannity to try to woo him away for a sum in the $200 million range over eight years, a person familiar with the situation said.[7]
Liberals won't be free of Limbaugh heartburn anytime soon. The conservative talk icon and the man credited by some with reinvigorating AM radio formats has renewed his contract with Premiere Radio Networks and Clear Channel Radio.[42] "A key industry source confirms speculation that Limbaugh has signed a stunning mega contract renewal deal with Premiere Radio Networks and parent company Clear Channel Communications," blogger Brian Maloney writes.[15]
The lucrative agreement between Limbaugh and Clear Channel-owned Premiere Radio Networks of Los Angeles is the second-largest ever for a radio personality, ranking behind only Howard Stern's five-year contract with Sirius Satellite Radio in 2004 that was valued at more than $500 million in stock and cash.[36]
"Rush Limbaugh is the biggest star in terrestrial radio today," said Michael Harrison, editor of Talkers magazine. "He is a tried and proven commodity. He is certainly not a fad." If Limbaugh's numbers are to be believed, that puts him in the $400 million range if all goes to plan over the life of the contract.[43] I have absolutely no reservations spewing my often politically incorrect views on television or radio - anyone want to give me a $400 million contract? Sheesh, if only. What are u people talking about? Rush is a great american, and deserves every cent he gets, so do you. Rush exposes the weakness of the liberals in this country.[12]
Ah, there'''s nothing like the smell of $400 million in the morning. This is the amount Rush Limbaugh will be paid via Clear Channel for his continued service to this country -- not including an additional $100 million signing bonus.[45] Rush Limbaugh isn't going to have any trouble affording good cigars, having just re-upped with Clear Channel through 2016 for $400 million, including a $100 million signing bonus.''[46]
The details haven't been announced but Drudge is reporting that the deal goes through 2016 and is worth more than $400 million dollars. I've spoken to a number of record industry insiders, and though no one would confirm those exact numbers, they all said that the high figure make sense. Especially in this advertising market, Clear Channel wants to nail down a sure-thing brand name. In Limbaugh's nearly 20 years in the business (he hits that milestone in August) he's proven a reliable draw through a range of political climates.[47] Charlie Rahilly, Premiere president, said advertiser and affiliate demand for Limbaugh's show is at an all-time high. Despite the reported big price tag, Rahilly said: "It's a really rational decision. It's great for Premiere and Clear Channel." He said there are new media opportunities that can make the deal more lucrative in the coming years.[48]
Clear Channel Radio President and CEO John Hogan said in a press release, 'Broadcasters of Rush's quality come along once in a lifetime. Hurting from competition from the Internet, podcasts, and other media outlets, traditional radio has to rely on its household names more than ever, according to Michael Harrison, the editor of the radio industry publication, Talkers Magazine. In an interview Wednesday, he said. As his Rush Limbaugh Show approaches its 20th anniversary, it has placed him as one of the leading political commentators in the country.[2] The company will share in the profits from Limbaugh's daily radio show; from "The Rush Limbaugh Morning Update," a syndicated 90-second commentary that airs weekdays; "The Limbaugh Letter," a monthly newsletter with over 300,000 subscribers; and rushlimbaugh.com, which includes Rush247.com, a subscription service. He dismissed the notion that the size of deal reflects competition from satellite, which went through a phase of signing big name talent to pricey pacts - a trend that reached its zenith with Stern.[23] Submitted by Carli on July 3, 2008 - 2:33pm. The author of this pathetic little diatribe admits he doesn't listen to Limbaugh. He spouts the typical leftist bile against Rush. If he doesn't listen to the show, where does he get his information? MediaMatters for America? LOL, what a joke. For the record; Limbaugh is the highest paid radio personality of all times with this deal.[45] Enjoy your money while you can. Because once the Dems take full control, they'll just pull the stations license and have you imprisoned. Rush Limbaugh deserves every penny of his deal. The broadcasters are paying it because he has the highest radio ratings in the nation and his audience continues to grow. Plus, he is a real America. Way to go Rush. leave 'em in the dust where they will wallow in their global warming morass.[35]
Good Lord if Rush Limbaugh has said it once he's said it a thousand times he is just a radio personality no more no less. He found his niche by accident and just ran with it. Its okay for stern and Imus to make money but not Rush, personally I think he's funny and he certainly doesn't take himself seriously like some of you do.[1]
President of Premiere Radio Networks Charlie Rahilly stated, "The Rush Limbaugh Show enjoys an unprecedented platform of radio affiliates.[40] Premiere syndicates The Rush Limbaugh Show and the 90-second "Rush Limbaugh Morning Update" Monday through Friday to a combined 600 radio stations nationwide.[41] Premiere President Charlie Rahilly added, " The Rush Limbaugh Show enjoys an unprecedented platform of radio affiliates.[41]
Limbaugh and Premiere will also continue to oversee "The Limbaugh Letter" newsletter and the website RushLimbaugh.com. He is the most listened to talk radio host in the country with an estimated 14 million weekly listeners. His show airs locally on WABC (770 AM).[28] Limbaugh is the most listened to talk radio host in the country with an estimated 14 million weekly listeners according to Talkers magazine. Sean Hannity, who's right behind Limbaugh with approximately 13 million weekly listeners, is continuing his negotiations with ABC Radio Networks. His show also airs on WABC.[49]
Credited with pioneering talk radio and almost single-handedly saving AM radio in the U.S., Limbaugh was hailed by Republicans for providing a media alternative to the networks and CNN, whom they accuse of liberal bias. His earnings put those of America's television news broadcasters into the shade. It is claimed he will now earn more than the four most famous network news anchors combined. The cigar-chomping Limbaugh, who broadcasts from what he describes as a "heavily fortified bunker" in Palm Beach, Florida, was once described by Ronald Reagan as the "Number one voice for conservatism in our country". He is regarded as an enormously influential figure with rank and file Republicans in U.S. elections, while Democrats have accused him of dirty tactics. During the recent presidential nomination battle, he launched Operation Chaos, a radio campaign to encourage Republicans to vote for Hillary Clinton and so prolong the in-fighting among Democrats. He told the New York Times: "First and foremost, I'm a businessman.[11]
Limbaugh has by far more listeners, broadcasted nationwide on 600+ stations. Why is every liberal Talk Radio show a total flop? Why are their ratings in the toilet? Because nobody wants to listen to liberalism.[45] I'd rather listen to a radio talk show host like Alan Colmes. He may not have a multi-million contract, but he doesn't make me want to hurl after a few minutes. I don't receive a red cent for writing these Pulitzer-worthy commentaries, and Limbaugh gets showered with money.[22]
Radio advertising, including on radio Internet sites, totaled $21.3 billion last year, down from $21.7 billion the year before. Mr. Limbaugh's fans are fiercely loyal to the host and very responsive to his show's advertisers, media buyers say. "He is a proven commodity," says Mark Lefkowitz, executive vice president and media director at Furman Roth Advertising Inc. Mr. Limbaugh's show also delivers revenue through ancillary businesses such as his "24/7" club that costs about $60 a year. Those businesses have grown substantially, a person familiar with the show said.[7] Sean Hannity's syndicated show reaches 13 million. In comparison, Hannity earns an estimated $5 million a year for his radio work, but reportedly is close to inking a new pact for $20 million a year. Limbaugh will mark his 20th anniversary on radio next month.[43] The total deal comes out to $38 million a year. His show, which is broadcast from his office in Florida, is heard on 600 radio stations across the U.S., by more than 14 million people every week.[18] The new deal is believed to be the most expensive in radio since 2004, when Sirius Satellite Radio paid Howard Stern $500 million for five years.[29] Limbaugh will be bringing in major bucks, but is still short of Howard Stern's $500 million, five-year deal inked with Sirius Satellite Radio.[43] Which is probably why Limbaugh just inked a $400 million deal to stay on the radio through 2016.[33]
In this absurd world that we live in, this clown gets paid an insane amount of loot for haranguing his listeners for hours a day. You couldn't pay me $400 million to listen to Limbaugh on a daily basis, he's annoying, crude, petty and disgusting. Comedian and aspiring politician, Al Franken, captured the essence of Limbaugh is the title of his best-selling book, "Rush Limbaugh Is a Big Fat Idiot." Rush Limbaugh demonstrated his disdain for the democratic process, by urging his Republican listeners to register as Democrats and vote for Hillary Clinton to cause chaos in the Democratic primaries.[22] While liberals gnash their teeth, Rush Limbaugh will be cashing in $38 million annually for the next eight years.[50]
The terms of the contract were not disclosed; however, The New York Times reported that the contract is estimated to be worth around $400 million -- or $38 million per year -- until 2016.[34] The extension contract includes a $100 million signing bonus according to The New York Times.[30]
Maloney, author of The Radio Equalizer, got a tip Tuesday night from a reliable source that Limbaugh had re-signed until 2016, was getting a nine-figure bonus up front and would be profiled in Sunday's New York Times Magazine. Maloney said he had to double-check the "shocking bonus" with his source. "I said, 'Do you realize that nine figures means at least 100 million?' " Maloney posted his story around midnight.[32] The New York Times Magazine has posted its cover story for this weekend - an extended takeout on Rush Limbaugh.[51] A New York Times Magazine cover story to be published on Sunday affords an inside look into the personal and professional life of the conservative icon. Limbaugh on why he will reluctantly support McCain: ''It's like the Super Bowl. you root for the team you hate less. That's McCain.'' Limbaugh on how he plans to take on Obama: ''I'll approach Obama with fearless honesty. He's a liberal.[50] Satellite would be a step backward for him," Rahilly said. Limbaugh, who disclosed the terms of the agreement in a New York Times interview, later said in a statement, "This is exactly where I want to be, doing what I was born to do, with an amazing audience and phenomenal support from affiliate stations and sponsors.[23] Drudge was tipped early by the New York Times about the Limbaugh deal, and notes that the portly talking head will be buying "a new G550 jet."[31]
Limbaugh's extension comes amid rumor that Premiere will also be involved in a new deal with conservative host Sean Hannity, who is now syndicated by ABC Radio Networks.[30] Terms of Limbaugh's new long-term deal with radio syndicator Premiere Radio Networks were not disclosed.[43]
According to the Drudge Report, the American broadcast industry has been "rocked, realigned and blasted into a new orbit" by the news that Limbaugh will keep his syndicated show "on-the-air and e-v-e-r-y-w-h-e-r-e through 2016 with Clear Channel and Premiere Radio."[35] The Premiere team is proud to partner with Mr. Limbaugh deep into the next decade." How this will effect the stock of Clear Channel (NYSE: CCU ) who, along with Premier radio syndicate Limbaugh's show, is anyone's guess.[40]
Premiere Radio Networks is a subsidiary of San Antonio-based Clear Channel Communications (NYSE: CCU). It syndicates 90 radio programs and services to more than 5,000 radio affiliations and reaches over 190 million listeners weekly.[52] Conservative radio host inks eight-year contract extension with Clear Channel Radio, Premiere Radio Networks.[8] The conservative talkshow host has signed a multiyear deal with Clear Channel's Premiere Radio Networks through 2016.[13]
Jameson: Rush is on over 600 radio stations in the U.S., not counting the internet. His combined advertising revenue will far exceed the terms of his contract thus rewarding Clear Channel and Premiere Radio.[44]
In a press release on Limbaugh's Web site, Clear Channel Radio President and CEO John Hogan said that "broadcasters of Rush's quality come along once in a lifetime.[39]
The fact that this man can make this much money really sickens me. This is the festering underbelly of capitalism, not the best of it (though capitalism ain't bad, in and of itself). I don't understand how this lying, slanderous, hypocrite can still be on the air. Clear Channel can count me out of their listening audience for as long as they put people like Rush on the air.[12] If Rush Limbaugh didn't have such a huge audience, he wouldn't get paid anything. He has a huge audience because people enjoy his show. Advertisers on his show get so much web traffic that even a mention shuts down their servers, on many occasions. His ebay auction earned more money for charity than any other ebay event. Every year he has a fund raising event for the children of fallen law enforcement officers, and every year it raises more money. His audience is growing. He has earned and deserves every penny.[12] We're privileged to continue our relationship which is unprecedented in the history of our industry." The deal includes syndication of "The Rush Limbaugh Show" "many years into the future," syndication of his 90-second commentary "The Rush Limbaugh Morning Update."[39] Rush Limbaugh has a new deal to keep talking for another eight years and he'll get paid a pretty penny for it.[43]
I only know one person that does. Limbaugh's new deal would not bother me much, except for the fact that he regularly, and intensely, bends facts (lies) to make his points and a few million people take what he says as though it were carefully researched and well thought out. It is not. He has said repeatedly that he is an entertainer, but he is one with a specific goal: the elimination of countering ideas and government efforts. How is that we can have one voice, and only one voice, heard by so many millions of people across the nation each weekday without protest? If that voice were that of a progressive or moderate, the right would be spitting out their lunches and calling for a crackdown in "the liberal media". He is an admitted partisan of one party. That alone should disqualify his "opinions", even if you are a Republican, because he does not represent a reliable source of information and knowledge. We do not, or should not, need blatant propagandists in our free media to direct us toward their preordained conclusions.[35] The cost of producing media is subsidized by ad revenues from corporate America. Any one who can get people to listen to the lies which their "think tanks" routinely feed to demagogic windbags like Limbaugh will be compensated at fantastic rates. He is similar to Hitler's Goebbels. He is able to convince many stupid people that they have no rights, except to have as many guns as they want, and that successful business leaders are demigods to whom we must sacrifice our lives. It REALLY pisses off the lib. er "progressives" doesn't it. Limbaugh is one of the reasons we have "Dead from the neck up finger puppets for the oil industry" running this country. This is a sad day.[35] I thought you Libs Loved everyone? No, You hate 1/2 the People more than you Love Your own Country, America. People saying mean thing have never listen for 1 week and heard how nice this Man is to everyone who calls His show. You have heard from the Media and Dem's only what they want you to think.[35]
No one has ever done so much to drive a wedge between Americans than rush limbaugh. This putrid excuse for a man has completely forgot or just doesn't belive in the words, "together we stand, divided we fall", as he postures himself to look like some type of every man hero to the working man when in all reality he is a vital player in the game of fooling the working class for the benifit of the super rich and powerful. His is the rhetoric of hatred and fear, good for nothing other than decieving the purposely undereducated, average working class american, because after all the easiest people to govern are the ignorant and the fearful. I for one see this "man" as nothing more than the deceitful and ruthless traitor that he is. [12] Blowing off steam is what Limbaugh does best. He tackles the big issues while he does it though. With insights on women not seen since Aristotle, Limbaugh has said, '''She comes to me when she wants to be fed. After I feed her -- guess what -- she's off to wherever she wants to be in the house, until the next time she gets hungry. She's smart enough to know she can't feed herself. She's actually a very smart cat. She gets loved. She gets adoration. She gets petted. She gets fed. She doesn't have to do anything for it, which is why I say this cat's taught me more about women, than anything my whole life.''' With this quote Rush proves he'''s a simple man with an equally simple mind. Another classic Rush moment came when he accused actor Michael J. Fox of exaggerating the effects of the debilitating Parkinson'''s disease for political purposes during Claire McCaskill '''s campaign. '''He is exaggerating the effects of the disease. He's moving all around and shaking and it's purely an act. This is really shameless of Michael J. Fox. Either he didn't take his medication or he's acting." No Rush, what'''s shameless is that you would accuse a man with a degenerative disease that he is faking the effects of a degenerative disease. What'''s next, will he attack cancer victims for exaggerating hair loss due to chemo therapy? Actually, I probably shouldn'''t give him any ideas, but then again he'''s not listening anyway.[45]
How can you quantify yourself as a journalist when you write opinions, that would make you merely a columnist, which maybe you are. I can honestly say that this is the first time I have looked at this trash mag you call a newspaper. I love the fact that you focused on his millions, as if to say, why can't I get paid this much? Is that what this jibberish you call an article, commentary, or whatever, about? Maybe you should take some lessons from Rush and you could actually find yourself in a market that pays you better and then you wouldn't have all of this bitterness. If he's smart enough to make $400 million, I wouldn't exactly call him an idiot, I would however call the person who's living in the armpit of the earth, writing in a pathetic manner about his fortune one.[45] I mean, would you advertise for Mercedes on the local Rap station, I think not. They gave Howard Stern $500 million and all he does is talk about the female anatomy. What is so crazy about Rush getting $400 million when he actually has to produce logical and complex arguments.[12]
Incredible! As our revenues build, I am pouring even more than this starter salary of $400m into Rush and others who articulate the correct and American position! Our country is great! Rush knows he's valuable, others are learning that they can love themselves as well. Its only a matter of time until we're all united in this country, then we have an even better America! 20 million listeners is just the start.[12] Like it stopped Paul Harvey from raking in the millions over two generations. WTF else are they going to put on the radio middays across AM America? As Chafets noted in his story, Rush is only entering his third decade in a business that, for all its turnover, has always had a handful of megastars. No one is on the horizon who can replace him.[26]
The left finances an alternative which points out how evil Bush is and the market sees it tank into oblivion. A few years back, Rush announced to his audience in the closing minutes of his show that he was entering rehab to overcome a prescription medication addiction and would be gone for a month. The left rejoiced that the king of talk radio had fallen from his throne and that this marked the beginning of the end for him. Just goes to show how prescient the left is in spite of their great humility. I waiting for O'Reilly to scream how unfair this is and no one deserve to be paid that much.[46] The Rush Limbaugh Show is one of the highest-rated programs on the radio where it plays on about 600 stations nationwide, including 640 WGST-AM in Atlanta.[52] "'The Rush Limbaugh Show' enjoys an unprecedented platform of radio affiliates.[49]
The daily three-hour 'The Rush Limbaugh Show' reaches about 20 million listeners weekly.[27]
Limbaugh's show, heard locally on WABC (770 AM), is broadcast by 600 radio stations around the country. Harrison estimates Limbaugh reaches 14 million people a week, making him the top show on the air.[43] Limbaugh's radio show is currently syndicated on more than 600 radio stations, reaching an estimated 20 million weekly listeners.[8]
Already host of the most lucrative hours since radio's inception, Limbaugh's total package is valued north of $400 million, according to media insiders.[33] Limbaugh's existing contract, which was worth $285 million over a nine-year period, was set to expire next year, the Times said.[29] In a "controversial profile," the Gray Lady is reporting that Limbaugh is buying a new G550 jet and is making an estimated $38 million a year.[35] Maybe the Left should cozy up to him, asking for donations instead of following the usual Leftist tactic of just taking the money that someone else has earned. He then could finance all those miserable anti-military, anti-American flop movies the Left keeps churning out about Iraq. If he is making $38 million a year, that means Clear Channel is making AT LEAST double.[35] Profits should be private, but when things go down the tubes, The Government should bail big business out, even as the CEO's get hundreds of millions of dollars, eh Rush? Only in America could a drooling, draft-dodging junkie get paid $38 million a year to lecture us on "conservatism" and "patriotism."[37] The pact, a record setter for terrestrial radio, is said to be an eight-year agreement for $38 million a year, plus a signing bonus of a whopping $100 million.[23] For the broadcast business, which is facing a tough advertising environment and mounting competition from iPods, the Internet and satellite radio, the Limbaugh agreement answers the five-year, $500 million monster pact that Howard Stern signed to go to Sirius Satellite Radio in 2004.[23] In 2004, Howard Stern, a so-called "shock jock", signed a $100-million-a-year contract with Sirius Satellite Radio for five years. His deal also covered the staff, production and studio costs.[11] Stern pays 20 million dollars per year out of that in labor and production costs. That leaves 80 million dollars per year over five years (400 million) versus Rush's deal which is 50 million dollars per year over eight years (400 million). On top of that, Stern received a 200 million dollar stock bonus for meeting subscriber numbers, bringing his total take-home sum to 600 million.[12] Howard Stern signed his 500 million dollar deal over five years, not eight (like Rush).[12]
The show airs on weekdays for three hours each day. His existing deal, which was worth $285 million over nine years, was due to expire next year.[11] The new deal replaces an existing pact signed in 2001 worth $285 million that was set to expire next year.[23]
A spokeswoman for Premiere declined to comment. On Wednesday's show, Mr. Limbaugh, 57 years old, said he was "ecstatic" about the deal. As radio fights for market share in a fragmented entertainment market, its national stars are becoming increasingly valuable. Ryan Seacrest, whose radio shows are also syndicated by Premiere, recently made a deal where he owns and controls a portion of the advertising on one of his shows. [7] Wednesday's announcement comes amid speculation that Premiere will also be involved in a new deal with conservative host Sean Hannity, who is now syndicated by ABC Radio Networks.[29]
FITSNews - July 2, 2008 - Just as we've never listened to Don Imus, we've never listened to conservative radio host Rush Limbaugh before, either.[33] I'm neither a radio broadcast professional, nor a daily dittohead listener to Rush Limbaugh, but I'm smart enough to recognize talent.[12]
Rush Limbaugh is an embarrassment to our nation. His new over reaching salary reflects this. Limbaugh avoided military service over a butt problem Funny how that butt problem now is earning him so much $$$$now.[35] Want to make Rush Limbaughs outlandish salary? Become a propaganda minister to the American People.[35] Rush Limbaugh is a shill for corporate America. His success is a reflection of his success at pushing this point of view, not of giving a true picture of reality -- as his followers would like to believe. He offers emotionally charged rhetoric designed to appeal to our fears and hatreds. It is propaganda of the worst sort. He is a mouthpiece for the establishment.[12] Oh, I love it when we start talking Rush Limbaugh. His father, grandfather, brother, cousin, and uncle are lawyers, like that slimeball ambulance chaser John Edwards. He flunked out of Southeast Mo after two semesters, unable to pass even ballroom dancing. He got out of military service by virtue of pilinodal cysts, a diagnosis made not by the U.S. Army but by his family physician (he brought a note to get him out of that messy draft business). He's got pill problems, an inability to hook up with the opposite sex, and the aerodynamic qualities of the MetLife blimp.[45]
The contract also incorporates the syndication of a 90-second commentary called the Rush Limbaugh Morning update, which airs on weekdays; The Limbaugh Letter, a monthly newsletter; RushLimbaugh.com, and Rush247.com, an online subscription service.[34] The deal also includes continued syndication of The Rush Limbaugh Morning Update, a 90-second commentary that airs weekdays.[52]
Plus, advertisers harness the intensity of listener engagement -- no one's 'word of mouth' about a product or service delivers more impact than Mr. Limbaugh's." The agreement includes his three-hour weekday show, which airs from noon to 3 p.m. locally on WABC (770 AM), plus the 90-second "Rush Limbaugh Morning Update" feature.[49] Too many whites are getting away with drug sales. The answer is to go out and find the ones who are getting away with it, convict them, and send them up the river, too." Ah, and who can forget Limbaugh when he shed light on the Abu Ghraib scandal. '''This is no different than what happens at the Skull and Bones initiation. I'm talking about people having a good time, these people, you ever heard of emotional release? You ever heard of the need to blow some steam off.''' Hey, Rush, you ever heard of torture? Yeah, I'''m talking about when people are held against their will and physically or psychologically abused in order to get information out of them.[45] TR - Really? Bring Proof of Limbaugh's racism and hate mongering? No one do that with transcripts of his broadcasts because Rush is afraid to post them and document the vile garbage he spews everyday. Media Matters for America has documented a slew in incidents of his hate-filled lies. Limbaugh is supposed to be an entertainer, but there are so many stupid idiots out there who think he is a political analyst and believe his crap.[1] Good for you Rush on getting that 400 mil. Limbaugh is a Viagra-popping, oxycotin-using BOOB! He has NO qualifications and is insignificant! Only in America can someone with no class and no talent make alot of money.[35]
Clearly, for Clear Channel Rush is a money making machine. His popularity continues to surge, so it seems that while they are spending a whole lot of money, they will more than make it up in revenue that the show produces. Love him or hate him, and I am in the love him camp, there is no disputing the impact that Rush has ands continues to have on both politics and the media.[40] The deal amounts to a major bet by Clear Channel that Limbaugh's brand of conservative talk will prosper well into the next decade.[36] The deal continues Clear Channel'''s quest to lower radio standards to the point where there will be only talk radio and Top 40 stations on the radio.[45]
Now, perhaps Limbaugh knew that and believes that KO isn't a "somebody." He's entitled to that view, but this does underscore the point Rory O'Connor made in his new book on talk radio, which is that other talk radio hosts can't stand this TV interloper.[26] New York, NY -- The most popular host in talk radio, will certainly be paid like it.[20]
One other thing to add though. Hannity, Boortz, Savage, are right in line with el Rushbo! (A name he refers to himself as). These are well educated radio talk show hosts who love nothing more than to educate the public about the DIRTY POLITICIANS and their agenda's. These politicians must sit up all night long just to have a thought pattern for each new agenda.[28]
The "Fairness Doctrine" at workoh waitthe liberal talk show host on whom this liberal salary is to be bestowed will need to pay Limbaugh 50 million in order for things to be fair.[44] Sean Hannity's syndicated show came in second as it reached 13 million. Limbaugh's first goal is to be the focus for the largest possible audience so he could charge confiscatory ad rates, the conservative talk-radio host said. "I'm having more fun than a human being should be allowed to have," he added.[30] Make that loads of pennies, reportedly upwards of $38 million a year. "This is exactly where I want to be, doing what I was born to do, with an amazing audience and phenomenal support from affiliate stations and sponsors," the conservative host said.[43]
According to Talkers magazine, more than 14 million people listen to Limbaugh at least once a week, while Sean Hannity is second with more than 13 million listeners. "This is exactly where I want to be, doing what I was born to do, with an amazing audience and phenomenal support from affiliate stations and sponsors," Limbaugh said in a statement.[19] Limbaugh, who will be on the air 20 years next month, attracts one of the most formidable audiences in the industry, with almost 20 million listeners.[23]
Limbaugh's show single handedly got me hooked on AM radio. He commands a huge audience, and often his listeners are very well-to-do themselves. This obviously makes advertising much more lucrative.[12] Premiere Radio, in partnership with Mr. Limbaugh, will continue to oversee The Limbaugh Letter, a monthly newsletter with a subscriber base in the hundreds of thousands, and RushLimbaugh.com, one of the most popular broadcast media websites that incorporates Rush247.com, a subscription service. Mr. Limbaugh stated, "This is exactly where I want to be, doing what I was born to do, with an amazing audience and phenomenal support from affiliate stations and sponsors.[15] Premiere Radio will continue to oversee The Limbaugh Letter, a monthly newsletter, and RushLimbaugh.com, a broadcast media Web site that incorporates Rush247.com -- a subscription service.[52]
The release announcing the contract is light on details, but does a pretty good job of piling on the platitudes. Premiere Radio Networks President Charlie Rahilly said he was "proud to partner with Mr. Limbaugh deep into the next decade."[21] Maloney also received a statement (after the jump) from Premiere Radio Networks which includes a quote from Limbaugh.[15]
Premiere Radio will also continue to oversee "The Limbaugh Letter", a monthly newsletter, and RushLimbaugh.com. Limbaugh said on his Web site that "this is exactly where I want to be, doing what I was born to do.[39] Premiere Radio president Charlie Rahilly described Limbaugh's appeal on the syndicate's website.[49]
The two parties reached the agreement nearly a month before the Premiere Radio Networks celebrates 20 years in syndication August 8.[30]
"Rush is just an amazing radio performer,''' says Ira Glass, a star of the younger generation of public-radio personalities. '''Years ago, I used to listen in the car on my way to reporting gigs, and I'''d notice that I disagreed with everything he was saying, yet I not only wanted to keep listening, I actually liked him. That is some chops.[51] I don't subscribe to EW or buy it anymore as well (but I will go to their website for free). Their critics and writers are biased, and all they can really do these days is create and promote "lists" ala the "top 10 new video game classics", etc. What's next? "the top 10 shoes worn by movie villians?" It's sad. As for Rush, I do not agree with everything he says, but the simple fact of the matter is that a great deal of America agrees with him on lots of issues, and other celebrities/personalities have been forgiven for far worse behavior than his. Somehow "prescription drug addiction" just seems so tame these days. It is not that corporations are afraid of advertising on liberal stations, it's just that only a small percentage of the populace wants to listen to the left-wing lunacy, hate, and bile they spew daily, and hence, they are not being put in front of enough listeners. It's the same reason that Fox News is #1.[12] Then the others in the middle. With Michael Savage serving hot dogs to his audience at the Washington Monument to all 6 of his listeners. For those of you who think for one second that Rush getting $60K per hour is a little high, how much do you think all of those stations bring in in ad revenue for that same hour. I could argue that $60K could actually be a bargain for them. With the taxes that Rush has to pay now, the Iraqis should have a Rush Holiday since he can actually pay for an entire day of the war.[38] Guess all those advertisers selling boner pills, heartburn pills, hair plugs, cash for gold, Jenny Craig, and collectible plates must be paying a lot for their spots. They sure know the audience! Go Rush, the $400 million working class hero! You are the PT Barnum of the 21st century.[35] Just Rush's exposure of the massive hoax that is "Global Warming",oh I'm sorry, make that "Climate Change" and the PUBLIC push to begin more domestic drilling is worth $400 million.[12]
Right, like Real America has jumbo jets and make $400 million deals spewing verbal vomit.[35] The loan was unusually large, known in banker lingo as a "super super jumbo." Obama paid no origination fee or discount points, as some consumers do to reduce their interest rates. Compared with the average terms offered at the time in Chicago, Obama's rate could have saved him more than $300 per month. Obama's loan came from Northern Trust, whose employees have also donated $71,000 to Obama's campaign (my note: This obvious quid pro quo needs to be investigated by federal authorities.) This is, of course, the same home purchase in which Obama was assisted by his fundraiser, convicted felon Tony Rezko, who bought the adjacent lot for the seller's full asking price, while Obama paid $300,000 less than the asking price to the same seller for the house. It seems Senator Obamessiah is not alone in getting preferential treatment. Other Democratic Senators have been found to have gotten sweetheart deals on their home mortgages too. I guess this is what Obamalamadingdong means by "change" cutting sweetheart deals under the table to line his own nest despite the fact he's already a filthy rich millionaire. Of course this is the kind of behavior by Democrat leaders which is invariably overlooked by DemDonks who stomp their hankies about "fat cat Republicans" whose only sin is having "too much money" but responsibly paying their own way through life. Looks like BO has decided to drop his core campaign promise about immediate withdrawal from Iraq. Back in the day, when this interminable campaign started, some said he was an empty suit ; it looks more like he was a chameleon (I'm reminded of Predator, for some reason).[44] "This morning the Washington Post broke the news that Barack Obama got a " "rate could have saved him more than $300 per month." "Here's the bottom line on Barack Obama's sweet mortgage deal: He got a lower rate because he was rich, not because he's a senator." "Obama received a 5.625 percent interest rate on his loan, which was below Northern Trust's going rate at the time of 5.81 percent."[44]
I agree that Rush is more of an entertainer than a philosopher or agent of news. He's tapped into quite a lucrative area of popular culture. Bash him all you want, but he's $400mil richer today than all of us, right? I applaud him, even though I disagree some of the time. It's capitalism, baby! Sean Penn is a great GREAT actor, yet any time he tries to out Rush Rush, he's an idiot.[35]
While most people in the media have a political view that they promote Rush and other conservatives are the only ones who come out and say it. It's not that I mind almost all of the networks being liberal, but I would like them to say so.[12] As for race, the liberals are using race to fuel a sort of "Neo-McCarthyism". Everybody is a racist who disagrees with them. All Rush said was McNabb was overrated when ask why he said in part due to the MSM wanting a black man to succeed at quarterback. This is true in many areas Look at how the MSM fawn over Obama. Granted they would fawn over any democrat but seem even more so with Obama. Kudos to Rush! He is very much deserving of this contract. If some people weren't so enslaved by Lord PC, they might find they agree with Rush more than not.[46] The strong rally behind hate and destruction. This country is going to Hell in a hand-basket. Hopefully Rush will O.D. on all that Oxycontin he'll be able to buy with his big money contract. Then I wil be able to take over his spot.[46] Here. watch." "Hopefully Rush will O.D. on all that Oxycontin he'll be able to buy with his big money contract." You denounce someone for being "hate spewing" by wishing for his death.[46]
Of course, Buckley never had a 400 million dollar contract, and that's all that seems to matter in our society. At least that's all it means to his easily entertained audience, "look at all the money their paying him Martha, he must be right."[12] Spokeswoman Amir Forester says Premiere does not discuss contract specifics, but published reports have valued the 9-year pact in excess of $400 million, with $38 million in annual salary plus a signing bonus.[49] According to Limbaugh, that hefty sum includes a $100 million signing bonus. His existing $225 million, nine-year contract was due to expire in 2009.[25]
The contract is the most lucrative since 2004, when Howard Stern was given $100 million for a five-year deal.[2]
Washington The government said Wednesday that it is calling off a recently announced moratorium on applications to build solar plants on public lands. The Bureau of Land Management made the announcement after public opposition to its original decision, reached at the end of May. The BLM had wanted to put new applications for solar plants on federal land on hold while undertaking a comprehensive review of potential environmental impact from such plants. That review was not scheduled for completion until May 2010. Wal-Mart Stores Inc. lost its appeal of a jury verdict in a discrimination case and was ordered to pay $900,000 in damages. A unanimous three-judge appeals court panel in New York refused to throw out a 2006 ruling that upheld part of a $7.5 million award to a worker who claimed Wal-Mart gave him a less-desirable job because he had cerebral palsy. "I hope this finally sends a message that they can't treat disabled people as second-class citizens," Douglas Wigdor, an attorney for plaintiff Patrick Brady, said in an interview.[16] The company also said it will pay $895 million to settle lawsuits over stock options backdating and will pay $17 million into a fund in an agreement to resolve a suit related to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act. New York A hedge fund swindler who set off a national manhunt when he faked his suicide to avoid reporting to prison surrendered Wednesday to Massachusetts police after three weeks in which authorities suspected he was hiding out in RV parks and highway rest areas. Authorities say his mother helped broker the surrender.[16]
Classic New York myopia by Wolff. At dinner the night before, Bill O'''Reilly'''s name came up, and Limbaugh expressed his opinion of the Fox cable king. He hadn'''t been sure at the time that he wanted it on the record. On second thought, '''somebody'''s got to say it,''' he told me. [26] Boob tv and boob on the air. Maybe the LA Times can actually figure this one out., I.E. why is most media besides Fox News and Limbaugh going under.[35]
Limbaugh's current contract, which was worth '150million over eight years, was due to expire in 2009. His new salary represents a pay rise of '7.2million a year.[14] Yesterday Jason Lewis filled in for Rush - I liked his comment on Rush's new contract. "He will make with the 8 year contract almost as much as the Anti-tobacco lawyers got in 1 month."[44]
Let me know in the comments if there's anything update-worthy. Exit question one: For contract purposes, would reinstitution of the Fairness Doctrine qualify as force majeure? Exit question two: Assuming that Limbaugh does better when he has a big target to attack (a safe assumption), would he benefit more from an Obama presidency or a McCain presidency? Most of us would say the former and I guess I would too, but note that (a) either way, he'll still have a deep blue Congress to wrestle with, and (b) Maverick would present him with a convenient foil for a battle between centrist-style and red-meat conservatism. Whether that battle would do more for ratings than a standard Obama vs. Rush blue/red showdown, I don't know, but it's a battle that seems to be coming either way and this would put him out in front of it. Update: Still skimming the NYT piece, but do not miss the description of his house.[38]
Howard clearly brings in listeners to a pay service. Rush didn't have XM or Sirius knocking on his door to help bring in more listeners because he can't. Pole 10 people on the street or office and you'll get 10 of 10 say they don't listen to Limbaugh.[12] Annie, if you're interested in cutting the vitriol, Limbaugh should be one of the people you direct your ire towards! There's no one more vitriolic in politics than Limbaugh, and that's saying something. He's one of the people who's dragged political discourse to its current sub-basement level, because he doesn't pay attention to the facts at all. For those of you dissing Al Franken, at least he backs up everything he says with actual FACTS. Limbaugh and O'Reilly don't do that, and yet people still worship them. That's the real problem, not their conservatism as such.[12] Proverbs 14: 34 tells us that "Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people". Oboomboom and et fail to acknowledge the fact that America has a major sin problem, she is adamantly demanding that we eliminate our association with God. They don't want or need him for anything, all we need is change. Proverbs 24:21 says, "My son, fear thou the Lord and the king: and meddle not with them that are given to change". We have a nation today that has a flawed understanding of who and what America is, that is why they sit in a "church" and listen to a man speak hatred and untruths, and never be bothered by anything he hears. They seek "change", no understanding of who we have been. Disdain and hatred for what they perceive we have been.[44] Air Amerika has had to resort to subsidies from George Soros and other liberals plus there was some rumors of embezzling from a children's charity as well. In closing, I would like to thank all my fellow Veterans for their service to our country, to the ones who stayed at home and supported us, reminding us why we were willing to sacrifice everything to keep this country, these United States of America safe from outside invaders. My deepest sympathies to those mothers with a Gold Star in honor of what they gave for this country, the widows with a folded flag who had their husband leave and never get to say Goodbye and to the children, who never got to know a father who fell in service so that he or she could grow up in freedom. No memorial, no medal, no words can express what they gave for this country as well and on behalf of those who did come home, "Thank you, thank you for the hard work, endless hours of training, for seeing the horror of war, for seeing the paperwork was done, the machines of war were ready and the compassion you showed to those who were not our enemies after the fighting was done."[44] I can't believe we live in a country that allows a no talent slob like this to steal that kind of obscene money, while the talented hard working folks at Air America can't even make an honest wage.[40]
We pay athletes and actors huge sums of money for much less performance. This guy works everday, three hours a day - far more than the mega athletes and hollywood types. They are paying Rush this kind of money because no one in the world can bring in the audiences like he can. It's simple economics my dear. He should be executed. Duh - I KNOW he brings in audiences, but what I'm saying is most of them are listening because they hate him - it's almost like they are punishing themselves by getting worked up over his constant tirade.[31] Needless to say I like Rush. I may not agree with him always but I do more often than not. He is at least very consistent. I like how he is able to get under the lefts skin. He also has the old Bill Clinton ability of having attacks bounce off of him and back at his opponents. He doesn't stand behind a Republican simply because of them being a Republican instead he sticks with his conservative principles regardless. I waiting for O'Reilly to scream how unfair this is and no one deserve to be paid that much. Yeah, well, he's never claimed to be anything but a populist, and therefore has his own motivations. I enjoyed Rush once upon a time, he is a bright guy. Its too bad he decided to become a full time hate monger. As for O'Reilly being a "populist", the video of him going off on a technician on the Inside Edition set gives us a pretty good idea of how he actually treats "the folks".[46]
The few times I've heard him, Rush sounds like an intelligent guy with a good grasp of the issues. He also seem a bit pompous at times but, I think that's for show.[28]
By all means, have Congress squash a voice, an idea, an opinion. Squash a voice that speaks of middle America that remains proud. 20 million listeners? Maybe they are those working class (like me) who "can" chew gum and walk at the same time, so we can be at work, drive and listen (and think) at the same time.[12] On the plus side, Howard Stern still remains the highest paid radio personality of all time. It'''s good to see that America still has standards in that it values a man who has made a career out of getting women to take their clothes off over one who has made a career out of being wrong and making ridiculous statements.[45] I guess I missed out on when July 3rd was turned into April Fools Day. It's seemed only too clear when Mangiaracina writes "On the plus side, Howard Stern still remains the highest paid radio personality of all time", that it's a joke piece. Who in their right. er better make that correct mind. could see Stern's worn out act with his never ending parade of pimps and whores as something on the plus side of anything.[45]
Prima, when rush has to try and get people to cheat so his beloved neo cons can stay in control that is not good radio, thats treason. His little operation chaos BS was just that. He couldn't just let people vote and let the chips lay, he had to try and convince conservatives to vote for Hillary because he knew the right could not beat obama. [50] Steve, You are absolutely right! No intelligent human being should allow Rush's incredibly biased, over simplistic hyperbole to replace serious discusions of important issues. In his pea brain there are only two sides. the "right" conservative way or the liberal "unAmerican" way.[40] I'm no big Rush fan, but it is clearly the liberal side of the media that tears apart instead of building! Not to mention the advocacy of corporate robbery at gun point and the suspension of all legitimate civil liberties.[46] And, as for Sirius Insider, to claim that Stern has Talent and Rush doesn't shows you have never listened to Rush. Anyone can interview dumb whores, and ask celebrities stupid ass questions about sex (Stern) but it requires a bit of brain and talent to disect this current political spectrum and deliver a concise view point of our nations current political atmosphere. All those that are simply jealous of his success or don't want to take a serious look at their beliefs or the idiots that share them, just get over it, he is the true king of media, and puts Stern, Franklin, Garafalo, or even Moore to shame in the arena of ideas.[12]
Rush Limbaugh's show has long been a daily exercise in verbal masturbation, listened to by self-indulgent addicts who can't face the real world, but must live in a fantasy land of comic-book good vs. evil.[50] Talk was never cheap for Rush Limbaugh, but now it is getting a lot more expensive.[36] The 90-second weekday commentary "The Rush Limbaugh Morning Update," the monthly "Limbaugh Letter" and RushLimbaugh.com, which includes the subscription service Rush247.com, will continue under Premiere's purview as part of the agreement.[29]
While several other major outfits are struggling to survive, Limbaugh and Premiere have provided a steady revenue stream for Clear Channel.[46] The strategy will use two years of audience data to rearrange ad slots, Clear Channel radio unit chief John Hogan said Wednesday.[16] The deal would appear to come at a good time for Clear Channel, which has been negotiating for months to close a buyout deal that would take the company private.[29] I happen to have great entertainment skills, but that enables me to sell airtime." Premiere didn't confirm the price details for the paper, but Premiere President Charlie Rahilly tells the Times, "It's a really rational decision. It's great for Premiere and Clear Channel."[10] Clear Channel Communications Inc. will start offering advertisers more slots during times of peak demand and cut commercial time when fewer listeners are tuned in.[16]
Clear Channel is getting huge amounts of money from oil companies and defense contractors to keep him on the air. They are footing the bill for this huge contract.[12] Who actually controls the media? Murdoch from Fox. Are they liberal? Bill O'Rielly liberal? How can Clear Channel be liberal when they regulate what you hear by limiting what you are aloud to hear. There is more information on who owns what media outlets, just check the internets.oh! those internets might be liberal too?! Where do you draw a line on going beyond reason with an arguement either for or against anything? Obviously, we do not do that anymore when we take the word of an overpaid drug addict as truth.[45]
John Hogan of Clear Channel said in the statement, "Broadcasters of Rush's quality come along once in a lifetime."[42]
I would live life without a radio before I would tune in. You may think this man has no talent, but you could not be more wrong! I don't always agree with Rush, but there is no doubting the intelligence and creativity that this man possesses. [31] Way to go Rush! Now we know how much it cost to get someone to tell the truth. This man has more origional thoughts in 5 minutes than Tom Brokaw Peter Jennings had in their entire Careers. I hope everyone of you liberal whiners thinks about his success everyday the rest of your lives.[12]
Austin, you should listen to the show before assuming you know what's on it. There's a reason why Rush's audience is growing while his competitors on TV and in print are declining. If rich liberals, including al gore don't have a problem flying solo in private jets, why should Rush? '''' If global warming is a serious problem, liberals and the hollywood sect should treat it as such. Their actions prove global warming isn't as serious as they preach.[37] You are the worst journalist ever. It matters you idiot and to anyone out there who thinks Rush isn't listened to. Where T-F is Al Frankin? You all listen to him thats why he gets the big dollars.[12] Rush is making lots of money using the big lie propaganda technique that Hitler made famous. He could care less about his ditto heads as long as they continue to listen, and he's laughing all the way to the bank. If you gave him an enema, you could bury him in a match box.[50] All the drive by media are forced to report on you commanding the largest audience and making god-awful amounts of money. totally priceless Rush. Rub their faces in it and then enjoy a cigar.[35]
Jim Rome makes a ton of money trying to sound a like hip street dude, Alan Colmes makes a ton of money with a condescending above-the-fray tone, and Laura Schlessinger makes more than two of them together dispensing all-too-obvious advice. It's all good radio, and their listeners are neither "brain dead" nor "drooling, slack jawed, doe eyed" people.[50] Haaaate Limbaugh, and if I were a conservative I'd hate him even more, because he makes it seem like all conservatives are ignorant, bigoted, uneducated, drug-addicted, hypocritical morons. Like most conservative commentators, he doesn't practice what he preaches, yet he's still embraced by certain folks. It says more about his audience than it does about him.[12] You can count on two hands the number of public figures in America who can pull that trick off.''' Recently, Pew reported that, on a series of '''news knowledge questions,''' Limbaugh'''s '''Dittoheads''' ''' the defiantly self-mocking term for his faithful, supposedly brainwashed, audience ''' scored higher than NPR listeners.[51] "I'm having more fun than a human being should be allowed to have." He declined an interview request from The Associated Press. Limbaugh's "Operation Chaos" this year showed his continuing influence in political discourse. He urged his listeners to vote for Hillary Clinton to keep the Democratic nomination fight going in the hopes of hurting Barack Obama. Limbaugh, however, is no big fan of presumptive Republican nominee John McCain, even though he prefers him to Obama. Limbaugh, 57, said in January that if McCain were nominated "it's going to destroy the Republican Party."[48]
Dllrrs 38 million a year. At least $100 million in signing bonus. No wonder he's having so much fun.[21] On Jan. 26, it became the only show in Broadway history to play 20 years. Other Phantom phacts, in case you need some bar talk: Although the Broadway gross is a record $690 million, the show's worldwide gross has exceeded $5 billion - way more than the $1.2 billion for the highest-grossing film, Titanic. Homeless, disheveled and smelly he may be, but bum-superhero Hancock sure can rake in the cash: The film, which officially opened yesterday, made a killing Tuesday night at special preview screenings.[1] So. 20,000,000 people listen to him daily. He gets $400 million for the next 8 years.[12] Let the liberal media tear this guy apart for making $400 million, it's just their jealousy of him.[12] Now that's big bucks. Heck I just want to be his cigar merchant. Whether he is worth the $400 million or not will be determined by those paying.[46] Philadelphia ranked 4th among big cities in hot dogs eaten last year, consuming $46 million worth of franks.[1] Now there are examples of no justification for $111 MILLION bucks over a couple of years double dribbling a basketball? Pu-lease.[12]
I guess there is no middle ground where politics (or radio talent) is concerned anymore. It has become increasingly evident that we now live by this credo: the openness of your mind is directly proportional to the degree with which you agree with me. I say - THANK GOODNESS WE CAN DIFFER IN OUR OPINIONS! This is exactly what makes our nation what it is. the freest, grandest experiment in history. It is why millions outside our country want to raise their children here.[12]
With the rate of change in the media industry, who knows what else will come along to replace terrestrial radio. While Limbaugh's take here is impressive, a lot of things could happen to change the contract before it's supposed end date of 2016.[47] Keeping Limbaugh in the fold is crucial if radio is going to be competitive with the Internet and satellite radio, said Michael Harrison, publisher of Talkers. "It shows that there's a strong commitment on the part of one of the leading companies in our industry to remain viable for the next decade," he said. "If radio is going to continue and to survive it's got to do what it takes to keep its biggest players happy and exclusive to radio."[48] Limbaugh's show is one of the most "lucrative" hours in radio, claims Drudge.[31]
The number of "listeners" to Limbaugh is greatly exaggerated. They are calculated by taking the number of stations that air his show and multiplying it by a fraction of that local population with no real scientific basis for the number.[12] I oppose liberals. That's all that's involved here.'' Limbaugh's tactics for doing so: Chafets reports on Limbaugh's appointment of his associate, Bo Snerdly, as the "Official Obama Criticizer" of his show. "Snerdly introduced himself as an ''African-American-in-good-standing-and-certified-black-enough-to-criticize-Obama guy,'' and declared that he was speaking, ''on behalf of our E.I.B. brothers and sisters in the hood.'' |
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