The Death of XM 61 “The Flow”
Wednesday, July 16th, 2008
We are deeply saddened here at Subsoniq to learn of the discontinuation of the XM online channel “The Flow”. It was an incredibly important channel that supported and promoted progressive soul (and hip hop). It was a unique format exclusive to XM and losing it will certainly reduce the music diversity of XM’s lineup. Below is XM’s explanation of why it (along with 6 other “niche” channels) have been discontinued. We here at Subsoniq understand the need to bring those popular talk/sports channels online but are disappointed the only solution was to simply kill off these channels as a result.
XM’s official response and explanation
Thank you for taking the time to contact us about the removal of THE FLOW from the XM Radio online service.
As you may remember, THE FLOW and several other channels had been available on our satellite service until a couple years ago. The decision was made to remove all of XM’s online-only music channels to make room for other channels including ESPN Radio, The PGA TOUR Network, NHL Home Ice, XM Sports Nation, CNN, BBC World Service, C-Span, FOX News Talk, and Radio Disney.
We have a limited amount of space on the online platform and one of the biggest inquiries we get is why the online service is missing many of the well-known news and talk brands we offer on the satellite service. Now, the two platforms will be more consistent.
We recognize that there is a loyal audience for the kind of music heard on THE FLOW. Unfortunately, listenership on the channel was consistently low. We will, however, monitor all subscriber feedback carefully and will consider bringing the channel back at some point when we update our channel line-up later this year.
Thanks again for writing and for being an XM subscriber.
Best regards
