Satellite Music Network was the first satellite delivered network to provide complete live 24-hour a day music programing to local stations, under several different formats. Affiliate stations, mostly in small and medium markets, could operate their stations virtually unmanned with nothing more than a computer and a satellite hookup offering major market talent that they could never afford. The "clock" included options for a 2-, 3-, or 5-minute newscasts at the top of the hour, followed by other holes for local spots. While the programming was live, DJ's had to avoid references to the weather or anything else that would not be appropriate in many time zones. An 800-line was eventually added, allowing the live DJ's to take phoned in requests. They began in 1981 in Mokena, IL in a strip mall with two formats: AC - signed on by Bob Leonard, and Country - signed on by Gary Semro. By the late 1980s, SMN was broadcasting to more than 600 stations nationwide and in the Caribbean. In late 1989, SMN merged into ABC Radio and moved operations to Dallas. As of right now, this division is now known as "ABC Music Radio".
Bonneville Broadcasting also signed on with an easy listening format simultaneously to SMN - signed on by Tim Kolody from the same studios in August 1981. Bonneville pulled out of SMN in June of 1984.
Merged into "Stardust"/"Timeless Classics" to create new "Timeless" (formerly "Timeless Favorites") format.
= Currently active on ABC Radio. = Active on ABC Radio on a seasonal basis. = Divested to other companies. = Formats combined. = Currently discontinued.
United States
