TM Productions, TM Century, TM Studios: A Legacy in Broadcasting Sound

A Salute to TM Productions: The Jingly Sounds That Defined ’70s Radio, and Beyond

Introduction: The Birth of TM Productions

By the late 1960s, radio stations were searching for ways to stand out in an increasingly competitive market. Tom Merriman, a visionary composer and producer, recognized the power of sonic branding—the ability to craft jingles that seamlessly integrated with a station’s identity.

Merriman had already made a name for himself with Commercial Recording Corporation (CRC), a Dallas-based jingle production company he founded in 1955. However, as radio evolved, he saw an opportunity to move beyond commercial jingles and create station imaging that would define the sound of an era.

In 1968, Merriman closed CRC and co-founded TM Productions with Jim Long. This new company specialized in radio station jingles, crafting packages that enhanced listener engagement, boosted ratings, and transformed radio into a highly immersive audio experience.

TM PRODUCTIONS | TOWER OF POWER | DEMO TAPE

Audio Digitally Remastered by USA Radio Museum

TM Productions’ Impact on Radio Branding

TM Productions quickly became a powerhouse in the industry, producing some of the most iconic jingle packages of the time. These included:

• Phase II – A revolutionary package designed to create seamless transitions between commercials, station IDs, and music programming.
• The Winning Score – Used by major stations like KHJ Los Angeles and WCFL Chicago, this package helped define the sound of Top 40 radio.
• Airpower – A branding package that gave stations like WBBM-FM Chicago a bold, energetic identity.
• Big Time Honolulu – A package that helped KSSK Honolulu dominate its market.
• Domination – Created for WFAN New York, setting the standard for sports radio imaging.

These jingles weren’t just catchy tunes—they were strategic branding tools that made stations instantly recognizable. TM Productions’ work ensured that a station’s sound identity was as strong as its visual branding.

The Merger: TM Century, Inc.

By 1990, TM Productions merged with Century 21 Programming, forming TM Century, Inc.. This merger allowed the company to expand its reach, offering customized jingle packages and music services to a broader range of stations.

TM Century became known for its cutting-edge production techniques, adapting to the digital age while maintaining the high-quality sound that TM Productions was famous for.

TM Studios: Adapting to the Modern Era

TM Century eventually evolved into TM Studios, which remains a leading force in radio imaging today. The company continues to produce high-end branding packages, working with stations like KNX News Los Angeles to modernize their sound.

Recent projects include:

• “The Bull” – A branding package designed for country radio stations, blending CHR-style production with authentic country elements.
• Custom News Imaging – TM Studios has helped news stations refine their branding, ensuring a strong, authoritative presence in the market.

Despite the changes in radio technology, TM Studios continues to uphold Tom Merriman’s legacy, proving that sonic branding is just as vital today as it was in the 1970s.

Tom Merriman’s Lasting Legacy

Tom Merriman passed away on November 11, 2009, at the age of 85, leaving behind a profound legacy in radio branding. His work shaped the sound identity of countless stations, ensuring that jingles weren’t just background noise—they were essential branding elements.

Even today, TM Studios carries forward his vision, proving that the right sound can define an era. Merriman’s influence remains embedded in radio imaging, ensuring that his contributions continue to resonate with broadcasters and listeners alike.

TM PRODUCTIONS | KKDA WOL WWRL WDIA| DEMO TAPE (1973)

Audio Digitally Remastered by USA Radio Museum

Additional Details: TM Productions’ Extensive Jingle Catalog

TM Productions created hundreds of jingle packages between 1967 and 1990, covering a wide range of formats—from Top 40 to country, news, and sports radio. Some of their lesser-known but equally influential packages include:

• Actualizers (1975) – A forward-thinking package used by KILT Houston, ahead of its time in radio imaging.
• Action Pak (1981) – A high-energy branding package used by KSOL, WPIX, and Rock 102.
• Across the Country (1982-83) – A traditional and contemporary country package used by KKYX, KSTP, and KNIX.
• Acapellas (1980s) – A unique set of vocal-only jingles used by WHN, WPLO, KRAK, and WBAP.

These packages helped define the sound of radio across America, ensuring that stations had a distinctive, memorable presence.

The Role of TM Jingles in WXYZ’s Identity

During the 1970s, WXYZ 1270 was a major force in Detroit’s radio scene, and TM Productions played a pivotal role in shaping the station’s branding. TM’s jingles were more than just musical identifiers—they were designed to seamlessly integrate with WXYZ’s programming, creating a smooth transition between commercials, station IDs, and music.

As a Top 40 powerhouse, WXYZ needed a strong sonic identity to compete with other influential stations. TM Productions provided high-energy, dynamic jingles that reinforced WXYZ’s brand, making it instantly recognizable to listeners.

TM PRODUCTIONS | WXYZ | DEMO TAPE (1971)

Audio Digitally Remastered by USA Radio Museum

TM Productions: The Dallas Epicenter of Radio Branding

During its prime years, TM Productions operated out of 2002 Academy Lane, Dallas, TX 75234, a hub of innovation where Tom Merriman and his team crafted the jingles that shaped radio branding.

This Dallas location became synonymous with cutting-edge station imaging, attracting major clients like WXYZ 1270 Detroit, KHJ Los Angeles, and WCFL Chicago. TM’s signature sound wasn’t just a product of musical talent—it was a result of meticulous craftsmanship and industry foresight, all cultivated within its Dallas headquarters.

Even as TM Productions evolved into TM Century, Inc. in 1990 and later TM Studios, the Dallas roots remained central to its identity. The company’s legacy continued from this location, ensuring that stations nationwide could rely on the unmistakable TM sound that defined generations of broadcasting jingle productions.

Conclusion: The Enduring Power of Sonic Branding

From CRC to TM Productions, from TM Century to TM Studios, Tom Merriman’s journey reflects the evolution of radio branding. His work ensured that stations weren’t just heard—they were remembered. As radio continues to evolve, one thing remains clear: the power of a great jingle is timeless.