Posted by chicagomedia.org on March 05, 2009 at 07:29:40:
In Reply to: Lewis Lazare on the Brandmeier contract talks; Garry Meier posted by chicagomedia.org on February 26, 2009 at 12:06:42:
JOHNNY B. USING WGN LEVERAGE?
Want your Meier with Brand?
March 5, 2009
BY LEWIS LAZARE Sun-Times Columnist
Monday came and went this week and Jonathon Brandmeier didn't get a deal done. Which means the contract renegotiating is taking longer than expected with the powers-that-be at classic rock WLUP-FM (97.9).
As the days drag on with no new contract signed, we've heard more and more talk on the street about Brandmeier having discussions with Tribune Co.'s news/talk WGN-AM (720). Or at least using that station and its possible interest in his services as leverage in his contract renewal talks with the Loop -- the better to wring every possible cent out of the Emmis Communications radio station.
Some observers even suggest WGN has delayed filling its vacant mid-afternoon talent slot to get a clearer sense of whether Brandmeier might be a serious option.
But even if WGN were making a serious run at Brandmeier, the question becomes: At what price?
Brandmeier presents a problem for WGN in that he comes with a lot of baggage, specifically his hand-picked production team that could significantly boost the total cost of putting the Brandmeier show on the air. And it's unclear whether Johnny B.'s show on a station like WGN could pull in enough ad revenue to make him a profitable addition.
With the bankrupt Tribune Co. counting every penny, Brandmeier would be an expensive gamble.
Whether or not Brandmeier winds up in the mix at WGN, the radio station is said to be seriously considering three finalists for its mid-afternoon slot.
Certainly Garry Meier, who has been doing a fill-in gig in that time slot this week, has to be viewed as a serious contender. After a somewhat awkward first day on air at WGN, Meier's second day went much more smoothly, especially his interplay with other WGN on-air staff.
Former Chicago radio personality Kevin Matthews, who is now doing a morning show at WLAV-FM in Grand Rapids, Mich., could also be among the finalists for the WGN afternoon slot.