Barrett Media's Top 20 Active/Modern Rock Radio Shows of 2025 is here, and it's a celebration of the best in the industry! But wait, there's a twist—this list isn't just about popularity; it's a democratic process with a unique voting system.
The Countdown Begins:
Barrett Media, in partnership with Strategic Solutions Research, presents a comprehensive list of the top radio shows, and it's more than just a ranking. This series is a tribute to the hard work and talent in the music radio industry. But here's where it gets interesting: the voting process is a collaborative effort, and the results are in for 2025!
The Voting Process:
- This year, a record-breaking 192 industry professionals, including program directors, corporate executives, and format consultants, cast their votes. A diverse group of companies, such as iHeartMedia, Audacy, Cumulus Media, and many more, were represented in the voting process, ensuring a fair and comprehensive evaluation.
- The voting system is designed to be both inclusive and precise. Voters are experts in their respective formats, and their votes carry varying weights. A first-place vote earns 20 points, and each subsequent selection receives two points less. It's a unique approach to recognizing excellence.
And the Winner Is...
Preston and Steve from 93.3 WMMR in Philadelphia take the top spot for the second year in a row! This dynamic duo has made history, becoming the first in any format to achieve consecutive wins in the Barrett Media Top 20 series. A huge congratulations to Preston, Steve, and the entire WMMR team!
But Wait, There's More:
- Preston & Steve dominated the competition, finishing 66 points ahead of Free Beer & Hot Wings. WMMR's morning show also secured an impressive five first-place votes.
- The race for the top spots was tight, with Dave and Chuck the Freak barely edging out Chaz & AJ for 4th place, and The 95 Rock WILL Morning Show just surpassing Pablo for 16th.
- Out of the 179 Rock radio shows that received votes, 16 shows earned the coveted first-place vote, showcasing the diversity of talent.
The Series Continues:
Barrett Media's Top 20 series will continue with upcoming releases for Classic Rock, Adult/Classic Hits, Urban/Hip-Hop, Country, AC/Hot AC, and CHR/Top 40 radio shows. Stay tuned for more exciting reveals!
Behind the Scenes:
Jason Barrett, the visionary founder and CEO of Barrett Media, has a rich history in the media industry. From building and programming radio stations to leading ESPN shows, his expertise is unparalleled. Barrett Media, launched in 2015, has become a go-to source for media professionals, offering consulting services and industry insights.
Controversy or Fair Play?
The voting process aims to be inclusive and accurate, but with so many shows and constant changes, mistakes can happen. Barrett Media welcomes feedback and encourages readers to reach out if they spot any errors. But here's a thought: in an industry with so many talented individuals, is it fair to crown just one winner? Share your thoughts in the comments—do you agree with the voting system, or is there room for improvement?
