NZ’s MediaWorks forms new network Magic Talk
MediaWorks is merging its radio arm RadioLIVE with the Magic Network to form a new “talk-music hybrid” network.
The new network will be called Magic Talk, and will provide both talk and music radio in the one offering.
As Stuff reports, the merger could place a number of jobs on the line, including the Morning Talk slot held by Mark Sainsbury, with other staff affected to include Andrew Gourdie, Brendan Telfer and Jim Kayes.
“Our priority is talking to our people,” a spokesperson said.
An email sent to staff by MediaWorks CEO Michael Anderson said: “The merged entity will operate a music station and a talk station, and the talk station will be run by the music radio side of our business.”
NOVA Entertainment’s attempt at a music-talk station in Australia, Vega, was ultimately unsuccessful.
Vega, which attracted talent including Shaun Micallef, Wendy Harmer, Tony Squires, Rebecca Wilson and Mike Perso, launched in 2005 but the format was ditched after five years and rebranded to Classic Rock, and later, smoothfm.
Cannot see this working. I really feel taking stations back to being local is the answer and not national shows or networks.