iHeartMedia

Bob Pittman, chairman and CEO of iHeart, said in an interview to NPR: "We have transformed a traditional broadcast radio company into a true 21st century multi-platform, data-driven, digitally-focused media and entertainment powerhouse." iHeartMedia, Inc. is one of the leading global media and entertainment companies. With 250 million listeners in the United States, this company owns and operates nearly 900 broadcast radio stations. iHeartMedia also offers online radio, digital radio channels, satellite radio, vehicle entertainment systems, and even live streamed music events. 

The company began in 1972 when Clear Channel Communications purchased its first radio station in San Antonio. The company’s name, “Clear Channel,” was derived from a 1941 law, passed during World War II, called the North American Regional Broadcasting agreement. This law created “clear channels,” which meant that certain frequencies could only be used by one long distance radio transmitter at a time. Hence designated channels were free from competition and ensured that radio communication could be streamlined if the need arose to communicate with citizens across the nation.

The business was hit hard by the Great Recession in 2008, and by 2010, the company was facing bankruptcy. After changes at the top and new financial agreements, Clear Channel Communications became iHeartMedia Inc. in 2014. In 2018, the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and also restructured debt in order to stay in business. So far, this decision has paid off. As iHeartMedia nears its 50th anniversary, it remains a multi-platform digital media company that offers great entertainment and music.

Cross Chet Atkins Place and walk .2 miles up Music Square West. Turn RIGHT on Grand Avenue. Stay on Grand Avenue, cross over Eighteenth Avenue, and walk one block. Round Hill Music will be just past the intersection on your right.