Sky Daniels

Sky Daniels, program director of KCSN 88.5 FM/Los Angeles, has been named as one of the top 25 “most influential” rock radio programmers in the United States by Billboard Magazine, one of the music industry’s leading publications.

The list was featured in the May 14 edition of the magazine and was based on Billboard’s poll of music executives and their view of which programmers have the ability to shape the future of new rock music.

“Who is shaping the future of rock?,” the magazine asked. “Rising stars, certainly, such as Cold War Kids, The Strumbellas and The Lumineers, each a current top 10 act on Billboard’s Rock Airplay chart. But the programmers at alternative, adult alternative and active/mainstream rock outlets choose the songs that propel artists like these up the airplay charts. The 25 rock programmers here, at 20 different outlets, are identified by label executives surveyed by Billboard as among the most influential in getting exposure for new rock repertoire.”

Daniels, who also is nominated for “Best Program Director” in FMQB Magazine’s 2016 annual industry poll, said he was honored by the recognition.

“KCSN is devoted to helping musicians succeed in a challenging era,” he said. “The recognition by Billboard and the industry’s top executives is gratifying, as it reflects on our commitment to artist development.”

Daniels is a radio veteran who helped develop KFOG/San Francisco, WLUP/Chicago, KISW/Seattle, KMET/Los Angeles and other stations during his career. He also has been a major record label executive at Universal Music and Sony Music, as well as national vice president for entertainment at Best Buy Corp. and general manager of the trade publication Radio & Record.

A service of California State University, Northridge, KCSN offers a 24-hour, commercial-free blend of rock, alternative, soul, blues and Americana, featuring a wide range of artists such as U2, Bruce Springsteen, Jack White, Arcade Fire, Wilco and Beck. The station’s programming also is available on KCSN’s HD1 channel and online at KCSN.org.

Billboard, KCSN, Radio, Sky Daniels