XM currently has 70 music channels. The majority of them are original programming. A few of these channels are re-imagined versions of the big radio stations" playlists, while others are dedicated to a certain style or type of music. For example, XM has a bluegrass channel, an Americana channel, and a "Holly" channel, which features contemporary holiday hits.
During the time that Abrams was working for XM, the company was on a tight budget. In November, management executed 80 layoffs. XM had been trying to get satellite radio off the ground for months. By this point, the company had a staff of more than 400, and they had to figure out a way to get it to work. While the radio business was in the throes of a money crunch, Abrams remained optimistic. He vowed to save XM.
As the head programmer at XM, Abrams was in charge of dreaming up all of the channel formats. He had to come up with 100 brand-new stations. Using his research, he determined which kinds of songs would appeal to which types of listeners. This data was then used to create playlists and programs.
Throughout his career, Abrams has become a well-known figure in the industry. He was an influential figure in the world of radio. He consulted with radio stations all over the country. But he was also a key figure in the creation of a new type of music service. XM"s country channel hosts in-studio performances by country musicians, and backstage at country music events. These shows allow fans to participate even if they can"t attend the show.
Currently, there are five country channels on XM. They include Prime Country, Outlaw Country, the America channel, the Highway 16 channel, and the Jingle Jamz channel. Some of the most popular artists on these channels are Brooks & Dunn, George Strait, John Michael Montgomery, Reba McEntire, Vince Gill, and Dolly Parton.
There are also three new music channels on SiriusXM. One of them is the New Country channel, which features top country artists. Another is the Women Of Country channel, which is devoted to spectacular storytelling. Also, there is the Jingle Jamz channel, which features a mix of hip-hop and R&B from 1990 to present. All of these are available on the SXM app.
XM"s country channel hosts in-studio concerts, award shows, and country music festivals. In addition, it is a radio station where all members can participate.
XM is known for its country-themed Fan Club parties, and these parties are usually broadcast on its Highway 16 channel. The station also airs daily live concert entertainment on the highway.
XM"s country-themed service will soon have a dedicated Bluegrass channel. It has a longstanding relationship with Eric Church.