Gary Krantz passes away

Gary Krantz, president and CEO of Krantz Media Group and a longtime leader in broadcast radio, digital media and syndication, passed away on Jan. 21 at the age of 65. His career spanned over four decades, leaving a legacy of innovation and guidance for the audio broadcasting sector.

Born on Dec. 29, 1959, in Queens, N.Y., Krantz began his career in 1981 at MJI Broadcasting, where he helped grow the syndicator until its acquisition by Clear Channel in 1996. He then served as executive vice president of programming at AMFM Radio, where he launched its syndication division and oversaw programs like ‘American Top 40 with Casey Kasem.’ After Clear Channel acquired AMFM in 1999, Krantz joined Premiere Radio Networks as executive vice president, guiding programming, branding and Mediabase music sales.

Before establishing KMG, Krantz served as chief digital media officer at Westwood One and president of Air America Radio. He founded KMG in 2008 as a full-service media firm specializing in business development, content syndication and investment counseling for digital media companies. Under his leadership, KMG worked with clients such as Premiere Networks and TuneGenie Networks. In 2011, he expanded into multi-platform content syndication with KMG Networks.

Most recently, Krantz was a driving force in bringing the Podcast Radio format to the U.S.

Krantz’s family described him as a person known for his humor, style and generosity. In a statement, they said, “He loved Bruce Springsteen, the beach, and his three kids. He was their rock, an iconic legend and a source of wisdom and joy.”

A memorial service will be held Jan. 26 at Riverside Memorial Chapel in Manhattan. Donations in his memory can be made to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.