L.A. Radio Wars

RADIO, RADIO: L.A. radio has undergone a significant change following the format shift of 98.7 KYSR (formerly Star 98.7) from Modern AC to the less crunchy, female-appealing side of Alternative, a move that has put it ahead of long-reigning KROQ in the last two books in both share and cume. The programming recipe under PD Julie Pilat (at right, also the MD of #1-rated KIIS-FM) avoids Active Rock-leaning acts in favor of a song-driven focus, with an emphasis on familiar sounds, including ’80s music. This growing trend, which radio insiders attribute to the growing influence of Arbitron’s PPM stats, has delivered particularly robust ratings jumps at Philadelphia’s WRFF, programmed by John Allers, and Salt Lake City’s KXRK, under PD Todd Noker. But KROQ mastermind Kevin Weatherly (left) has faced and deftly fended off numerous challenges over the years, and those in the know say it would be foolish to discount his legendary acumen now. (7/1p)