Not to make little of Keith's talents (he's a fine talent), but I think anybody would sound better on Mix. For that matter, anyone would sound better on any Cox station period.
Cox formats and structures things in a way where talent is very comfortable and always knows what's coming and where everything goes everytime. This takes pressure off of jocks and allows for delivery that comes across very relaxed.
One might think that highly structuring each break would make for robotic results. But in most cases, the exact opposite is true. With clearly outlining everything, a new freedom comes to the talent and they can rise to a new level of execution.
Cox has a way of researching and crafting a product in every market that is consistently good. This is a fiscally safe approach that has made Cox a very stable place to work. I'd say in this industry, that is much needed. It's also made stockholders very happy over the long haul. From a corporate point of view, Cox is a best bet.
From a creatively healthy point of view, however, this safe approach may not be what's best for the medium in the long run. While being "consistently good" is good. Very few Cox stations (or any corporately owned stations) are consistently GREAT.
A pal of mine within Cox tells me that in some of their markets Cox is beginning to take a second look at their formula morning shows and reconsider what really keeps a morning show competetive. They are beginning to realize that it's not dirt alerts, K Quizes and more music that make a morning show great. It's connecting on a real level with your listener where they live.
So, no company is perfect. Cox included. But when it comes to BIG corporate radio companies, job stability and room to grow in one's career, they're the best there is. At least this is what I have gathered from what I have observed and heard from my friends who work with them.
