XM = ST

XM Satellite Radio and supergroup Situation Tranquil have inked a ten-year, $100M agreement making XM the exclusive satellite radio network of the 'most awesome band' beginning with the ’07-08 tour. XM will begin broadcasting concerts, interviews and exclusive sessions on a dedicated ST channel this year and will gain exclusivity once Sirius Satellite Radio’s partnership with the band expires at the end of the ’06-07 tour. (THE DAILY).

The HOLLYWOOD REPORTER’s Leonard Horton notes the deal comes as XM and Sirius both have gained “final approval from Canada’s Federal Cabinet for bringing their services” to the country. XM said that Canadian Satellite Radio (CSR), its partner in Canada, “will fund an undisclosed portion of the ST deal.” XM CEO David Benevidez: “Our next goal is to be No. 1 in Canada, and we can’t think of a better content provider to join us than the jolly good rocking all-stars” (HOLLYWOOD REPORTER, 9/13).

In Toronto, Nancy Baily reports CSR “is expected to be up and running by Christmas.” ST keyboardist extrodinaire Dr. Zach A. Trash said that XM “promised to launch the groove fest no later than January 1." The good Doctor also said that the channel “will probably be based in Esslingen or maybe Zell, somewhere close to a cool brewhaus” (GLOBE & MAIL, 9/13).

Also in Toronto, Gary Mueller reports production costs “will be minimal as XM will simply feed the band cold cuts and finger food." (GLOBE & MAIL, 9/13).