But with more choices comes the need for more content. Radio properties have been scurrying to fill the airwaves – both free and subscription – with more choices so that they might grab more ears, which, in turn will (hopefully) translate into more revenue.

The most recent high-profile radio offering is the result of an alliance between Knitting Factory Entertainment, owners of the famous Knitting Factory nightclubs in Los Angeles and New York, and XM Satellite Radio.

The result? “Live From The Knitting Factory,” a series of concert broadcasts aired exclusively over XM that will feature cutting edge artists from genres across the board. Scheduled to launch this fall, “Live From The Knitting Factory” will air on XM’s channel for independent/college music, XMU (XM 43).

The match between Knitting Factory shows and XM’s own indie/college channel is a good one. The Factory has long been known for showcasing both up-and-coming as well as established artists. Plus, with the Knitting Factory’s booking muscle clearly on display on both coasts, the finished product is sure to grab the attention of music lovers looking for more than time, temp and current hits from their radio receivers.

“Both XM and Knitting Factory Entertainment strive to provide fans of independent music with a place to hear intriguing, up-and-coming artists who traditionally haven’t had the broadcast or performance opportunities to reach a larger audience,” said Eric Logan, executive VP of programming for XM Satellite Radio. “Given both companies’ commitment to independent music this partnership to create a “Live From The Knitting Factory” concert series on XM’s indie music channel, XMU, made perfect sense.”

Looking For That Lost Shaker Of Salt

Jimmy Buffett fans have a lot to look forward to this summer. Every show Buffett performs on his upcoming tour, including his scheduled stop at this year’s New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, will be aired live on the Radio Margaritaville channel on Sirius Satellite Radio.

Each concert stop on the “Party At The End of The World” tour will be presented commercial-free and will include a special 30-minute pre-show, backstage broadcast featuring interviews with Buffett or members of his Coral Reefer Band.

“Since all our shows will be broadcast live on Radio Margaritaville, Parrotheads can join us in their cars, boats, at home or practically anywhere in the world,” Buffett said. “‘Fins Up’ on Sirius!”