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6/3/04….gs
In the latest Radio & Records National Airplay Rock Chart: (http://radioandrecords.com/Charts/rock_Home.htm)
Velvet Revolver’s Slither is presently #2 in “total plays” and Van Halen’s “It’s About Time” (IAT) is #10. On R & R’s Active Rock Chart, Slither is presently #3 and IAT is #28. On BillBoard’s Modern Rock Tracks Chart, (http://www.billboard.com/bb/charts/airplay/modern.jsp) Slither is #5 and IAT did not make the top 20.
In this reviewer’s option, these numbers don’t reflect the true story. Van Halen’s 2004 “It’s About Time Tour is being promoted by Clear Channel Communications, Inc. (“CCC”). CCC is presently the largest concert promoter, and is the largest radio broadcasting company in the United States. Velvet Revolver does not have this significant marketing advantage.
Without cross in-network promoting by CCC, Van Halen’s IAT would probably be ranked between 19 – 21st on the R & R TotalPlay Rock Chart, instead of #10. It is also of interest to this reviewer, that there is substantial “breaking of ranks” among numerous CCC owned radio stations regarding playing IAT or “talking IAT up” on the air. In my substantial music industry experience, I have never witnessed the number of CCC station DJ’s rendering negative on-air comments, or refusing to play “It’s About Time”, in directed slots.
On other matters, Van Halen Tour ticket sells continue to be very soft, except Class A+ markets. Further, in the last two weeks there has been substantial erosion of both ticket volumes and ticket prices in the secondary resale market, with some VH tickets selling at up to 47% below face value. Despite these facts, three new Tour dates were announced by VH’s management yesterday being Biloxi, Atlanta, Bossier City, in addition to Louisville, Green Bay, and Cincinnati being added within the last week.
<center>Velvet Revolver</center>
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