SiriusAddict.com

This week, Clear Channel decided to rear its big, ugly self into XM Satellite Radio. Initially XM Radio received some help from Clear Channel to start up the service. Since then, XM has denied involvement with Clear Channel producing some of their broadcasts, despite the fact that KISS, MIX, Nashville and Sunny are clearly Clear Channel controlled.

What’s more disappointing is that XM Radio has been forced by Clear Channel (well, Clear Channel is doing as they choose with their channels) to introduce commercials into the above 4 channels plus an additional channel that is in-development. XM Radio has a press release from Eric Logan, Executive VP of XM Satellite Radio, regarding the upcoming changes and commercials. To me, it’s really disappointing because KISS will suck even more than it already does. Luckily, I’ve not listened to KISS for about 6 months due to its lack of new music and fresh content.

That being said, XM Radio is alleged to be introducing 4 new channels in place of these Clear Channel controlled stations. Two better be a TRUE TOP 40 channel and a CONTEMPORARY ADULT HITS (KISS and MIX equivalents) or there will be numerous angry customers and subs will undoubtedly drop, or so I presume.

Another disappointment that XM Radio refuses to acknowledge.

Mike, from beyondxm.com has a few comments about this as well – might want to give them a read.

Update: Looks like Sirius is taking advantage of this commercial-free aspect that XM can no longer pride themselves in, i.e.”Commercial-Free Music channels” (it’d be false advertising now) and you can’t blame them. Sirius’ website now sports a “100% Commercial Free Music” banner in the center column.