Back to Sedaka. The man is chock full of talent ranging from pianist to song writer and of course, pop singer. But Neil is victim of what is wrong with a lot of radio today. With the exception of some soft AC/nostalgia type formats, Neil is pretty much exiled. I'm sure it all has to do with perceptions and consultant decisions. If we make the assumption that the majority of decisions are the correct ones, there would be no issue. But it isn't the case the majority of times if you want my opinion.
Look, I recognize the need to keep formats fresh and not to sound too old. With revenue tanking as it is, and with the obsession to do well in 25-54, artists such as Neil Sedaka are deemed too "risky" and a part of "your father's radio station." I'd like to see more creative programming where the lesser played artists and songs have a chance to shine on occasion. That keeps the station fresh, trust me!
But it certainly doesn't stop with Sedaka. When was the last time you heard even "mainstream" rock 'n roll hits on today's oldies/classic hits stations such as the Buckinghams, Classics IV and the Association, to name just a few? The hatchet is swinging harder than ever. So if you love disco, Elton John, the Eagles, Cougar and the Mac, then you should be happy with the 60s/70s/80s format.
Like a train wreck coming, it seems no one learns from past mistakes. What many stations do today is exactly the same as they did burning out the same 300 60s and 70s songs in the traditional oldies format. There is a lot of great hit music out there that should find it's way on the air occasionally. There are some stations who goose the format here and there but most get locked in to a lot of the silly consultant rules. I have to laugh. Think about it, if "Surfer Girl" was a 1966 hit instead of 1963, we would all hear it more.
Anyway, sorry to get on a soapbox but those running things should find another line of work and return radio to real radio people. Peace.
