WHERE HAVE ALL THE INDIES GONE?

With Clear Channel’s non-indie policy taking effect, promo types are scrambling to board the major label bandwagon. The radio giant’s controversial exclusive contracts with independent promoters expired last Thursday (7/31), meaning company programmers can now only deal with "bona fide" record label promotion execs, which has resulted in some interesting alliances.

As a result, Cincinnati-based Tri-State’s Lenny Lyons is now set to relocate to L.A. with a label imprint at Universal Records via Thomas Mottola’s re-launched Casablanca Records.

In addition, Denny Bleh and Jason Prinzo join Capitol Records as "exclusive retainer promoters," which will allow them to continue repping their non-Clear Channel stations as indies, and their Clear Channel clients as "label employees." Also, Megan Youngblood has been hired by RCA/J as L.A. local.

Meanwhile, look for an announcement shortly that Ross Grierson will join a major label for Top 40 promo duties, based in Cincy.

Bill Scull will remain at Tri-State, where he will continue to rep his non-Clear Channel stations.

Questioners are questioning what other indies will follow suit. And how will Chicago-based power Jeff McClusky reinvent himself in the wake of these changes?

One thing’s for sure. Expect plenty of action to come.