Here we are in 2025, and it’s fascinating to look on how CBS RADIO and Townsquare Media revolutionized local content production and distribution in Michigan back in 2014. This collaboration gave birth to the Michigan News Network (MNN), serving affiliated stations with news, sports, and other locally produced content by WWJ Newsradio 950 (WWJ-) and 97.1 The Ticket (WXYT-FM). Over a decade later, the impact of this initiative remains significant, bringing top-quality broadcasts to listeners Michigan.
Birth of the Michigan News Network
On September 2, 2014, the Michigan News Network debuted with nearly 20 affiliate stations throughout Michigan, including key locations like Detroit, Flint, Lansing, Kalamazoo, and Ann Arbor. As a leading news and information source in the state, MNN started offering top-of-the-hour broadcasts on weekdays and 60-second sports updates three times per day.
The Role of CBS RADIO and Townsquare Media
The CBS RADIO content was licensed by Townsquare Media, acting as the exclusive syndication partner managing affiliate relationships. CBS RADIO’s Detroit stations, long recognized as trusted voices in the community, extended their reach Michigan through this partnership. Meanwhile, Townsquare Media continued to uphold its commitment to providing live, local, and vital information to the communities it served.
Accolades and Achievements
In 2014, WWJ Newsradio 950, Michigan’s only all-news radio station providing live and local content 24/7, was recognized by key industry players. The station received accolades such as the Station of the Year by the Michigan Association of Broadcasters, a Crystal by the National Association of Broadcasters for community service, and the General Excellence for news by the Michigan Associated Press.
97.1 The Ticket: Sports Talk Leader
As Detroit’s sports talk leader, 97.1 The Ticket served as the flagship home for Detroit Lions football, Detroit Tigers baseball, and Detroit Red Wings hockey, making it metro Detroit’s #1 sports destination.
About CBS RADIO and Townsquare Media
CBS RADIO, one of the largest major-market broadcast media operators in the U.S. and the leader in news and sports radio, reached over 72 million consumers nationwide each week. On the other hand, Townsquare Media is a diversified media, entertainment, and digital marketing services company, owning and operating radio, digital, and live event properties and creating and distributing original entertainment, music, and lifestyle content.
Join the conversation and keep up to date with the Michigan music scene, industry news, and events. #MichiganMusic #IndustryNews #MusicEvents #CBSRadio #TownsquareMedia
