In a move that signals yet another step toward consolidating power in the Christian radio world, Educational Media Foundation (EMF)—the parent organization of K-LOVE and Air1—recently acquired The Fish network of radio stations from Salem Media Group for $80 million (Radio Insight). This acquisition includes major market stations in cities like Los Angeles, Dallas, Atlanta, Cleveland, Sacramento, and Portland, as well as others across the United States.
Notably, The Fish also had a strong presence in Nashville, one of the most influential hubs for Contemporary Christian Music (CCM). The network included stations such as 93.7 WFFI Kingston Springs, 94.1 WFFH Smyrna, and 104.9 WBOZ Woodbury, collectively known as “94 FM The Fish.” For over 22 years, these stations served as a vital platform for CCM listeners and artists, connecting them to faith-filled programming and uplifting music. In 2024, Salem Media sold the Nashville stations to EMF for $7 million (Radio Insight).
Following the sale, EMF transitioned these stations to broadcast its K-LOVE and Air1 programming, solidifying its presence in one of the most significant Christian music markets in the world. This marked the end of The Fish’s storied legacy in Nashville, a move that demonstrates EMF’s strategy to dominate key markets by acquiring well-established stations with substantial listener bases.
A Legacy in Transition: Salem Media’s Shifting Focus
It’s worth noting that Salem Media Group, the former owner of The Fish radio network, also owns the iconic CCM Magazine. Once a cornerstone of the Christian music industry as a widely circulated print publication, CCM Magazine transitioned to a digital-only format and is now primarily a website—though it still retains the “magazine” branding. This transition reflected broader challenges in the media industry, as audiences moved away from print to online platforms.
Now, with the sale of The Fish radio network, Salem is taking further steps away from its significant legacy in Christian music. While CCM Magazine continues to exist as an online entity, this sale raises questions about Salem’s evolving role in the industry.
Why Are Major Changes Happening at Salem?
While Salem Media has not provided detailed reasoning for the sale, it’s no secret that the media landscape is changing. Traditional radio, much like print media before it, has faced increasing competition from digital platforms and streaming services. The costs of maintaining large networks of terrestrial stations have grown, while advertising revenue continues to shift toward online channels.
Selling The Fish network may reflect a strategic move to address these financial challenges and focus on other areas of their business. However, this downsizing has implications for the Christian music industry and the legacy Salem Media once upheld.
A Different Focus: Justice in Christian Music
I typically write about upbeat topics that aim to encourage and inspire, whether it’s celebrating the achievements of independent artists or highlighting uplifting stories in Christian music. However, this article takes a different tone. It’s about justice—justice for the many talented artists, listeners, and supporters who are often overlooked or excluded due to the monopolization of the Christian music industry. It’s time to shed light on this issue and advocate for a fairer and more open landscape.
The Monopoly Effect
EMF now holds total assets exceeding $1.12 billion (ProPublica). The organization generates an annual income of $247 million, with 97.6% of that revenue coming from listener-supported donations (MinistryWatch). These donations are collected largely through their biannual Beg-a-Thons (um, Share-a-Thons), where K-LOVE appeals to its middle-class donor base for support. Many of these donors earn an average of $50,000 to $75,000 per year (Giveffect) and contribute sacrificially to what they believe is a ministry-driven mission.
However, instead of prioritizing artist development, community outreach, or broader opportunities in Christian radio, a significant portion of these funds goes toward:
- Paying executive salaries as high as $500,000 annually (ProPublica).
- Purchasing more stations to expand their network and tighten their grip on Christian radio.
The acquisition of The Fish network—including its Nashville stations—is a prime example of EMF’s strategic growth. By integrating these influential stations into its operations, EMF has solidified its position as the dominant force in Christian radio, leaving little room for alternative voices and smaller stations to thrive.
Alternatives That Champion Independent Artists
Thankfully, there are resources and initiatives that uplift independent artists and give them the recognition they deserve. Here are three platforms making a real difference:
This innovative radio show, available on Spotify, bridges the gap by playing both major label artists and incredibly talented indie artists. Hosted by JMac Jamz, the show combines high-quality music with humorous antics and dad jokes, creating a fun and engaging listening experience. It’s a platform that values diversity in talent and style, giving indie artists the exposure they often lack.
The Quarterly Songwriting Contests at ChristianSongwriting.com provide a beacon of hope for emerging talent. Featuring high-quality judging by Christian music professionals, these contests reward winners with valuable prizes and resources to help them grow. Quarterly winners are eligible for the prestigious Songwriter of the Year award, which further empowers their career. This platform celebrates artistry and encourages growth for songwriters at all levels.
Unlike traditional Christian radio charts that are often dominated by major label spins, this chart focuses solely on independent artists. It tracks songs based on station and playlist adds across Christian radio and Spotify internationally, offering a more balanced and authentic perspective. By excluding major label artists, ChristianRadioChart.com creates a space for new voices to shine.
Bringing It Back to Christ
Scripture offers us valuable insights into how Jesus might view these practices. In Matthew 21:12-13, Jesus overturned the tables in the temple, condemning those who exploited worship for personal gain. Would He respond similarly to the commercialization of Christian radio today? Mark 10:42-45 reminds us that leadership in God’s kingdom is about serving others, not about amassing power or influence. Finally, Micah 6:8 calls us to “act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.” These verses challenge us to reflect on whether today’s Christian music industry aligns with these principles.
Let me leave you with these questions:
- Would Jesus walk into the EMF offices and overturn the tables, or would He commend them for their work?
- Are we creating opportunities for all voices in the body of Christ to be heard, or only for those with the largest platforms?
- How can we, as listeners and supporters, encourage a more Christ-centered and equitable industry?
Call to Action
By supporting platforms like Maximum Hits Radio Show, ChristianSongwriting.com, and ChristianRadioChart.com, we can take steps toward a more open and authentic Christian music landscape. Together, we can ensure that the future of Christian music reflects the diversity and richness of the body of Christ.
Let’s work together to keep the door open for all artists, not just the ones with major label backing. After all, the body of Christ is made up of many parts—and so too should be the music that inspires and uplifts us.
Blessings,
Jeff McLaughlin
We see this practice everywhere nowadays. Big business, education, government, the media. It is a stern reminder to return to the teachings of Jesus.
Seems to me, K-Love is all about the click… same songs over and over, rarely new artists. There should be amateur days… or hours during the week that nothing is played but unknown worship songs. You don’t have to be in a hypocrite, money influenced, K-Love “ click” to have Holy Spirit influenced music written that moves the Christian Spirit….
I’m glad I’m not the only one seeing and feeling this. As an independent singer-songwriter, it’s been really disheartening this year specifically to have to go back to working in other areas just to pay the bills. I’m all for supporting Christ-centered art, but it seems like the almighty dollar has too much of a strangle hold on the business and it’s wringing out any independent voices that may have more of a chance in other genres.
I’m not surprised. I tried to get my award winning song on KLove and was told no. They said it wasn’t available widely in stores (it’s mostly digital now anyway).
Haven’t listened to them in years, since they keep playing the same artists/songs.
Thank you for shedding light on the travesty occurring before our ears and for being bold enough to call out what certainly appears to be – especially from an emerging artist’s perspective – a bridge too far.
Cherry-picking (essentially monopolizing), which artists and songs are allowed to be played in rotation as selected by some corporate BIG Brother or radio station manager with their marching orders in hand, is a shame. The listeners (AKA the donors), would do well to investigate the situation as described by McLaughlin. The listeners – yes, those folks who play the radio in their cars or at work and who provide the funding which pays the bills for nearly every aspect of EMF’s business, including the salaries of those running the stations and the corporations.
Sure, listeners are invited to request a song or track by an artist, but I can assure you, if that artist isn’t singed to a major label, their material is simply not allowed to be played on major radio stations across the U.S. owned by EMF and/or others like them. Why might that be, would a person suppose?
Never mind, that nearly all of todays Contemporary Christian Music sounds like it was recorded in the same studio and produced by the same individual. In a word – homogeneous!
If your readers and listeners are seeking originality, authenticity, minimal use of auto-tune vocals…. Songs played using real instruments with unashamed messages and a variety of unique styles of music resonating with wide audiences, they can be found on Indie Christian radio stations. Seek them out and support THEM.
Check out Christian Radio Chart to discover these artist’s that are aspiring to reach the next level in their musical careers – not so they can boast or brag but so that the messages in their songs can be heard by a broader audience, too.
Sing a new song unto the Lord. Make a joyful noise unto Him.
This is great! I’m so glad there are people who support indie artists. I hope the music industry can become more helpful to aspiring artists as well.
Thank you for shedding light on this. I agree wholeheartedly and appreciate your efforts to encourage Christian indie artists.
Before getting into broadcasting, I liked listening to Christian radio music. In Salem, Oregon it was KCCS 1330 AM which played songs from the 60’s and 70’s. The station was run by Christian Center Assembly of God, but the Christian music was not what you heard in church. The radio waves were filled with Keith Green, Second Chapter of Acts, Love Song, and so many more. In my 20’s I accidentally found a radio station in Santa Rosa, CA. Living on base at Beale, I liked the station so much that I called and spoke to the owner/DJ/partner there. The gentleman was kind, funny, and real. When he found out I had discovered this small station but revealed to me that he and his partner were starting a new station out of Roseville, CA; now the station is known as KLOVE! I used to listen to KLOVE but found the share a thons offensive at times as DJ’s read scripts to elicit a specific response, my stomach turned my stomach; I had put up with Jerry Lewis telethons, now a radio station that played what I wanted to hear became sour to my ears. Listen any other time: great; listen to by share a thon and puke. In the mid 90’s my wife and I heard a good country song on KLOVE. So, I called the station and told them I liked that song, and that I would like to request a song. They said, “Sure!” I asked them to play track 9 for me. The lady on the phone stammered and said, “I’m sure that I understand.” I said OK, would please play track 4 from this artist? “We can’t do that, sir.” I asked why not, your station played track 11 and it was a good song, so please will play track 7 for me? She said, “This is a Christian station. Thank you for calling! Today, all I hear is fraudulent claims of a name it and claim it, fast salvation, and catchy tunes, with empty promises mixed with weak testimonies as the DJ’s server their master.
Over twelve years ago I started an online Christian radio station; with an eclectic blend of music that is rare because KEBC-DB works differently, and opposite of the story I shared. Plus, we carry a mix of 43 weekly programs; some shows are unique and heard nowhere else, and teaching programs, legal programs, and more. During a fundraiser, we state the need, give updates, and ask people to put their trust in us and our 501c3. Some days are a total drag out battle, but the reward is supporting independent artists by playing their songs and inviting them to join us for telephone/messenger our Artist Spotlights as a guest! Plus, our 3 live shows with J the Rac Man go out in syndication to 35+ radio stations around the world.
Jeff,
Thank you for this. One more aspect that I would love to see brought to light is how small of a percentage the artists get paid as royalties from the radio airplay.
The law may state the rate and the radio broadcasters may follow that set rate (which is very low) but if the radio stations are asking for donations to keep Christian music on the air perhaps they should be generous and give some of the funds back at a higher rate to the artists / songwriters themselves?
If K-Love has been given millions of dollars in offerings to “keep Christian music on the air” then they should themselves give funds to the artist that fuel that very music they air.
It is not a system in balance. At this rate K-Love will run the table with the massive funds they receive and keep buying other radio stations while not placing bread on the table of the artist(s) that actually make the music they benefit from.
Jeff,
Thanks so much for posting this article and being the voice for so many indie Christian artists.
It is frustrating that the “industry” is trying to monopolize in many ways and control airplay.
One thing I’ve never understood is how many of the Christian stations literally survive off of donations at the local level but provide little or no airtime for local artists.
Thanks again
Yes sir, Jesus would be up-turning tables over salaries like that coming from heart felt donations from the public. I’m certain there’s no role in this industry worth half a million, particularly in the genre that’s meant to be the purest. The dirty dollar is surely being used to inadvertently squash the voices and songs God would have put out there.
I did like Chris Tomlin’s Holy Forever (great song), but driving across a few U.S countries over a few weeks, we heard it so many times a day on K-Love that we felt like we wrote it, and unfortunately it became an eye roll song! We miss out on learning of so many great new artists as a result.
I believe that music is the key in the war of good and evil. I am not surprised. This is a huge sign. Stay close to Christ guys.
I wholeheartedly agree with this. I often wondered about the pledges they did. We need to support those who are just starting, and get their name out. Reminds me of how we need to support small businesses too, we see how big corporations take over. Greed is at an all time high. Money is so powerful. Money is definitely something we need to survive, but the LOVE of money is the root of evil. This is a really good and informative article.
Wow! I am becoming aware of this now and it is really sad 🙁 I’ve listened to K-Love for years and reading this is disappointing!
Monopoly’s are never good! Thanks for drawing attention to this Jeff.
I have been very involved in the Christian music business for a very long time. Consolidation on most levels of the genre have brought more financial gain but, in my opinion, have irreparably hurt the music. Fewer labels means fewer artists who are promoted to the public. Fewer radio stations means fewer alternative programming choices within an already small genre. I would argue that at the emergence of the genre (the late 1960’s) through the early 1990’s there was more experimentation, diverse production, and risks taken. The music was richer and (especially at the indie level) far less homogenized. There are no national, easily accessible platforms that I am aware of that regularly play “classic” “Jesus Music” or early CCM. That is, in my opinion, a tragedy.
People still listen to Christian radio. Huh…who knew…
When I started writing and recording in professional studios in Nashville, I thought for sure that one day I would hear one of my songs on KLOVE. I found out really quick that they have their own monopoly and collaborations with major labels and unless you are with a major label they are not interested in you. When I submitted a song that sounded amazing and was just as good in my opinion as anything you would hear on the radio, I was told I was not what they were looking for. I truly think that they have a vested interest in labels and possibly even having part ownership. They are not interested in the independent artists. The Christian Music industry is one of the most lucrative industries if not the most and they have control of the artist and the music played on radio. Labels will hook you in an unrealistic contracts if they choose you and you will struggle to even survive unless you go platinum. Sadly many don’t and wind up losing their life’s investment.
In my opinion the best any artist can do is produce quality music, work hard to share your music and work with those like MMGI that to help get your music out and reach as many people as you can with what God has given you.
Because, businesses like KLOVE is nothing more than a business that exist to make a profit. In my opinion they are not a ministry.
This move will obviously make it harder on the indie artist to promote their songs . It’s very challenging to get your tunes out already with out major label backing . Hopefully this will further bolster entities like ChristianRadioChart.com as a great alternative in this ever changing Christian music landscape scape .
I remember back in 2011/2012 where I was able to get 2 or 3 of my independent singles on hundreds of stations across the USA. Now almost all of those stations’ have been bought out by KLove. The day Victory 91.5FM & 89.3FM The Lighthouse WECC disappear will be a sad day that I hope never comes… there are at least a few good stations that aren’t entirely market-driven.
So many great artists going unheard because of corporate greed, now not only in the secular market. Having to listening to joyless, self centered, me,me,me, music instead of joyful, God centered music that lifts Him up because He is great and awesome, not just because what he does for me is hardly an option. Please support indie artists, people. There is plenty of rock, country, rap, r&b or whatever genre you like out there praising God.
Thanks Jeff,
As an indie artist I totally agree with this articulately fashioned article, full of eye opening facts. YES FM in Toledo always played our music alongside both signed & indie artists.
I believe Christians can have diverse radio stations following interesting formats that not only helps to disciple believers but also reaches out to those who need Jesus. Keep up the good work you are doing for the kingdom of God.
Jeff–
You’ve done amazing work over many years to help the indie Christian artist express their calls from God. You’ve also been working in the same field the wields the large mechanics and monies of modern music. I agree with with what you are accomplishing these days and wish you and all of the indie artists the very best.
But I wouldn’t continue fighting in their world, just continue to build and create opportunities for all voices in the body of Christ to be heard as you have been doing. I know that you may have to continue to play in the pool, and I agree and am praying for a more Christ-centered and equitable industry. But it ain’t gonna happen as long as money is the idol before them.
There are Godly people in the radio business, but those at the top don’t care about the indie. But I know you do and I sure do. I pray that the values you convey to the artists in your world are spread far and wide.