Sirius XM Holdings Inc. reports developments across its North American audio entertainment portfolio, including the flagship SiriusXM satellite and streaming subscription service, Pandora streaming services, a podcast network, and business and advertising solutions. Company news commonly covers operating and financial results, subscriber and advertising trends, programming across music, talk, news, and sports, and distribution through vehicles and streaming platforms.
Updates also include board-declared cash dividends, debt financing activity at Sirius XM Radio LLC, tender offers for senior notes, and advertising sales relationships handled through SiriusXM Media. These releases connect the company's subscription audio, ad-supported streaming, podcast, and advertising businesses with its capital-allocation and balance-sheet actions.
SiriusXM announced that its Doctor Radio channel 110 will be free to the public amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, coinciding with the FDA's expected vaccine approval. Since the pandemic began, the channel has provided vital information on COVID-19 through partnerships with NYU Langone Health. Upcoming special programming includes discussions on the COVID-19 vaccine and significant medical advances of 2020. Doctor Radio focuses on a range of health topics and mental health support during the pandemic, enhancing public access to medical expertise during a critical period.
SiriusXM announced that Maserati has made its SiriusXM with 360L audio platform a standard feature across all 2021 model vehicles in the U.S. This initiative marks Maserati as the first manufacturer to adopt this technology. The platform enhances the audio experience by combining satellite and streaming services, providing over 10,000 hours of on-demand content and personalized recommendations. Maserati buyers will receive a 12-month trial of SiriusXM's top-tier All Access package, enhancing the luxury vehicle experience with increased entertainment options.
Howard Stern has signed a new five-year agreement with SiriusXM, where he will continue to produce and host The Howard Stern Show. Additionally, his audio and video archives will be licensed to SiriusXM for an additional seven years. Stern praised SiriusXM, highlighting its growth into the largest audio entertainment company in North America. SiriusXM's CEO, Jim Meyer, expressed satisfaction in retaining Stern's content while exploring additional platforms for select content. This collaboration signifies a strong relationship between Stern and SiriusXM, emphasizing their commitment to audio entertainment.
SiriusXM announced the launch of 88rising Radio, the first all-Asian music channel in the U.S., in collaboration with 88rising, a media company focused on Asian artists. Set to debut on December 3, 2020, at 12 p.m. ET on channel 305, the channel will feature music from Asian artists across various genres. The channel aims to bridge Eastern and Western cultures and includes programming such as Dumb Early and SOSUPERSOUNDS. This initiative reflects SiriusXM's commitment to diverse content and expanding its audience in the rapidly growing Asian music market.
SiriusXM has announced an exclusive channel dedicated to Bob Marley, launching on December 3, 2020. Named Tuff Gong Radio, the channel will feature Marley's complete music catalog, including rare recordings. Curated by Marley's family, it will showcase Caribbean music and highlight influential artists from Marley's legacy, such as The Wailers and I-Threes. Monthly programs hosted by family members will include discussions and reflections on Marley's impact. SiriusXM continues to expand its music offerings through collaborations with iconic artists, enhancing its subscription and digital audio platforms.
Pandora announced a virtual concert, Pandora LIVE, featuring Carrie Underwood performing her Christmas album, My Gift, on December 8. Hosted by Storme Warren, the event aims to spread holiday cheer and includes discussions about Underwood's family traditions. With over 4.5 billion lifetime streams, Underwood is the top female country artist on Pandora, and her album debuted at #1 across multiple charts, including Billboard Country and Christian. The presenting sponsor is Audi, enhancing the viewing experience with interactive content.
SiriusXM is set to launch the SportsGrid Radio Channel on January 7, 2021, providing subscribers with 24/7 access to real-time sports news, statistics, and expert analysis. This new channel will replace the VSiN channel, which will conclude on December 31, 2020. It will feature a lineup of prominent personalities and programs focused on various sports, from football to soccer. The initiative aims to enhance SiriusXM's sports content offering, coinciding with significant sports events in January, as stated by executives from both SportsGrid and SiriusXM.
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Pandora has announced that Brandy and Summer Walker will perform at the Pandora LIVE Sounds of Soul virtual event on December 1 at 9:00 PM ET. This event is part of a series showcasing diverse artists and will include an interview with Brandy. Brandy's new album, b7, debuted at #1 on the Independent and Current R&B charts, while Summer's album Over It has received multiple accolades. The event aims to celebrate Black female artists and includes sponsorships that promote social justice initiatives.
SiriusXM launches a new destination for original and popular podcasts, featuring content from Marvel Entertainment and renowned hosts like Kevin Hart. Subscribers can access exclusive podcasts through the SiriusXM app starting today, with a special 'Listen Free' campaign running from November 19 to December 1, 2020, allowing non-subscribers to sample over 300 channels.
The initiative enhances SiriusXM's podcast offerings, solidifying its position as a leading audio entertainment provider in the U.S. The platform is bolstered by recent acquisitions of Stitcher and Simplecast.