Full Breakdown
TikTok Radio Launches in Partnership with iHeartMedia
3/13/2026, 2:58:59 PM
Overview of TikTok Radio's Launch
TikTok Radio is set to relaunch on March 13, 2026, after its previous run on SiriusXM, now in partnership with iHeartMedia. This new live audio channel will be accessible on the free iHeartRadio app and across 28 iHeartMedia broadcast stations in major U.S. cities, including New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Austin, Chicago, Dallas, Nashville, and Miami. The station aims to blend trending music with content from TikTok creators, providing a unique audio experience that reflects the platform's cultural impact.
Programming and Features
The programming for TikTok Radio will include several signature segments designed to engage listeners. Key features will be:
- Behind-the-Charts: A countdown of the top 10 songs on TikTok, exploring the stories behind the music.
- Hacks on the :20s: Hourly segments highlighting trending life hacks.
- Hot Takes: Lighthearted discussions on lifestyle and cultural topics.
- New Music Fridays: Showcasing the week's new music releases.
- On the Verge: Featuring music from emerging artists.
The station will feature a rotating lineup of hosts, including Kayla Thomas, Ashlee Young, Jon Comouche, Becky Mits, and Angelina Narvaez, who will cover various time slots throughout the day.
TikTok Podcast Network
In addition to TikTok Radio, iHeartMedia and TikTok are launching the TikTok Podcast Network, which will debut with several shows hosted by popular TikTok creators. Initial podcasts include:
- Suite 305 with Lele Pons: An unfiltered look at pop culture.
- Caroline’s Closet: Behind-the-scenes insights into the fashion industry.
- Sports Slice: A breakdown of sports stories with bold commentary.
- The Clifford Show: Insights into building a career in sports and media.
- The Set List with Carter Gregory: Conversations with artists and creatives.
These podcasts will be integrated into TikTok Radio, with highlights and clips featured prominently.
Launch Event at SXSW
The inaugural broadcast of TikTok Radio will take place live from the iHeartPodcast Hotel at SXSW in Austin, Texas, starting at 9 p.m. Central Time. TikTok creators, including Grace Wells, Madison Tevlin, Eric Sedeño, and Bree Stephens, are expected to participate in live interviews and segments throughout the event.
Official Statements
Dan Page, TikTok's Global Head of Media and Licensing Partnerships, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Empowering creators to turn their passions into lasting careers is core to everything we do.” He emphasized that this collaboration opens new avenues for creators to connect with fans across various platforms.
Tom Poleman, Chief Programming Officer for iHeartMedia, noted that the partnership merges the strengths of both platforms, creating a dynamic space for creators and listeners alike. He described TikTok Radio as a “living, breathing For You feed,” where music fans and creators can interact in real-time.
Conclusion
The launch of TikTok Radio marks a significant step in merging social media with traditional audio platforms, providing a fresh avenue for music discovery and creator engagement. As the station prepares to go live, it aims to redefine how audiences experience music and culture through the lens of TikTok's vibrant community.