The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) honored radio's best tonight, presenting the 2025 NAB Marconi Radio Awards. The ceremony recognized outstanding stations and personalities across various markets and formats, highlighting excellence in broadcasting.
Hosted by Danielle Monaro and Medha Gandhi from the Elvis Duran and the Morning Show, the event brought together industry leaders. Philadelphia's WMMR-FM emerged as a significant winner, taking home multiple top accolades.
Key Takeaways
- WMMR-FM, Philadelphia, received Legendary Station of the Year and Major Market Station of the Year.
- Colin Cowherd was named Network/Syndicated Personality of the Year.
- Nick Martin earned Legendary Radio Manager of the Year.
- Awards spanned various formats, including Country, Rock, News/Talk, and Sports.
Philadelphia's WMMR-FM Dominates Major Categories
WMMR-FM in Philadelphia secured two of the most prestigious awards. The station was honored as the Legendary Station of the Year, a testament to its long-standing impact and consistent performance in the radio landscape. Additionally, WMMR-FM received the title of Major Market Station of the Year, underscoring its current influence.
The station's success extended to its on-air talent. Preston Elliot and Steve Morrison, key figures at WMMR-FM, were recognized as Major Market Personality of the Year. Their win highlights the strong connection they have built with their audience.
Award Fact
The NAB Marconi Radio Awards are named after Guglielmo Marconi, the inventor of wireless telegraphy, and celebrate excellence in radio broadcasting.
Recognizing Top Personalities Across Markets
Individual talent was celebrated across all market sizes. Colin Cowherd, from Premiere Radio Networks, Inc., based in Los Angeles, Calif., received the Network/Syndicated Personality of the Year award. This acknowledges his widespread reach and influence.
In the large market segment, Mitch Albom of WJR-AM in Detroit, Mich., was named Large Market Personality of the Year. Larry Hansgen of WHIO-FM in Dayton, Ohio, won the Medium Market Personality of the Year. Mark Starling of WWNC-AM in Asheville, N.C., secured the Small Market Personality of the Year award.
"These awards reflect the dedication and creativity that continue to make radio a vital part of our communities," stated one industry observer at the event.
About the Marconi Awards
The Marconi finalists are initially selected by a committee of experienced broadcasters. The ultimate winners are then determined by the NAB Marconi Radio Awards Selection Academy, ensuring a rigorous selection process.
Leading Stations by Market Size and Format
Beyond the major market, other stations were recognized for their leadership in their respective categories. KDKA-FM in Pittsburgh, Pa., was named Large Market Station of the Year. KRMG-FM in Tulsa, Okla., took home the award for Medium Market Station of the Year. WTAW-AM in College Station, Texas, was celebrated as the Small Market Station of the Year.
The awards also highlighted excellence in specific formats:
- AC Station of the Year: WWBX-FM, Boston, Mass.
- CHR Station of the Year: WDJX-FM, Louisville, Ky.
- Classic Hits Station of the Year: WOMC-FM, Detroit, Mich.
- College Radio Station of the Year: WRHU-FM, Hofstra University, Hempstead, N.Y.
- Country Station of the Year: KYGO-FM, Denver, Colo.
- News/Talk Station of the Year: WBAL-AM, Baltimore, Md.
- Religious Station of the Year: WPZE-FM, Atlanta, Ga.
- Rock Station of the Year: WDRV-FM, Chicago, Ill.
- Spanish Language Station of the Year: WMIA-FM, Miami, Fla.
- Sports Station of the Year: WXYT-FM, Detroit, Mich.
- Urban Station of the Year: KMJQ-FM, Houston, Texas.
Innovation in Audio: Best Radio Podcast
In a nod to evolving audio consumption habits, the award for Best Radio Podcast of the Year went to “Behind the Song” by Hubbard Broadcasting, based in Chicago, Ill. This category recognizes the growing importance of on-demand audio content within the radio industry.
The inclusion of a podcast award reflects the dynamic nature of radio. Broadcasters are adapting to new platforms while maintaining their core strengths in live programming. This blend of traditional and modern approaches ensures radio remains a relevant and engaging medium for listeners nationwide.
Industry Impact
The NAB Marconi Awards serve as a benchmark for quality and innovation, encouraging broadcasters to continually raise their standards in programming, production, and community engagement.
Leadership and Management Honored
Effective leadership is crucial in broadcasting. Nick Martin, from Big River Broadcasting Corp in Florence, Ala., received the Legendary Radio Manager of the Year award. This recognition underscores the vital role managers play in guiding stations to success and fostering talent.
Strong leadership ensures stations can navigate market changes and maintain their connection with listeners. Martin's award highlights the impact of strategic vision and operational excellence in the competitive radio landscape.
The diverse range of winners, from national personalities to local market stations, shows the breadth of talent in radio. It reinforces the medium's enduring appeal and its ability to connect with audiences across various demographics and interests.