Radio Jamaica Celebrating 70 Years

Page 4 Sunday July 4, 2021 A s Chairman of the RJRGLEANER Group, I am delighted to be given the opportunity of honouring the relentless legacy of media giant Radio Jamaica 94FM by extending a birthday message. It was seventy years ago on July 9, 1950 that the station began commercial broadcasting. A legacy spanning seven decades speaks to durability, consistency, and commitment. Without doubt, Radio Jamaica has made an indelible contribution to national development, through the provision of quality programmes, entertainment, and news reports. Like many traditional formats, Radio Jamaica 94FM has seen its place in the modern media landscape questioned. Yet the creation of modern engineering, niche content, credible news, and the advent of new technologies have all combined to make the future of Radio Jamaica loud and clear. Convergence has driven the changing face of radio consumption, with new technological forms, such as personal computers, smartphones, iPads, broadband, apps, tablets, and other mobile applications. These have increased and enhanced listeners radio experience through text messaging, time shifted listening via podcasts, word- of-mouth forums, and other opportunities. These platforms have allowed Radio Jamaica 94FM to maintain its local presence while also developing an impressive number of international audiences. Radio Jamaica 94FM is one of the most important communication vehicles due to its availability to a wider range of people regardless of their educational background and economic status. So although the pattern of radio consumption and delivery has changed enormously, this radio station has enjoyed a kaleidoscope journey that continues to have a singular role as a force for national dissemination of information around the country and, as a powerful platform for national dialogue. Without doubt, Radio Jamaica has played a crucial role in the development of Jamaica as a nation, and the creation of the culture that we all identify as being Jamaican. I congratulate those who are here today as part of the Radio Jamaica family, and the legendary pioneers who have gone before. I am sure that 30 years from now we will be celebrating Radio Jamaica 94FM’s entry into the century club. Congratulations Radio Jamaica 94FM as you continue to connect generations for the good of our nation. I know it has been 70 years, but it seems like only yesterday that the melodic voice of Radio Jamaica reverberated into all our lives. The station began life as a game changer and since then it has been a constant friend that one can rely on to give consistently credible news, entertaining and informative programmes, and at times, nail-biting analysis. Radio Jamaica has developed a personal relationship with its listeners who enjoy listening on the way to work, in the car, at home, in the office, on the farm and in the field. In times of peace, conflict and emergencies, Radio Jamaica 94FM stands as a crucial source of information and knowledge. Over the past 70 years, the station has proven its relevance time and time again! This resilience inspired Radio Jamaica 94 FM to innovate and adapt by undergoing a name change; refining its brand image; and growing its portfolio of programmes and services, all of which enables it to stay relevant to listeners and advertisers. The station has embraced today’s digital media footprint and remains the original mobile medium, with a significant presence in the social media market. New technology and media fragmentation aside, it is reassuring to know that Radio Jamaica will be here connecting generations by continuing to be a pillar for nation-building and the first source for culturally expressive programmes. Technological advancement has also allowed people to broaden their access to radio. In fact, in a recent survey conducted in June 2017 by RJRGLEANER Group, it was found that 60.3 percent of 18-25 year olds listen to radio on their mobile phone, and that overall 87 percent of Jamaicans listen to radio every day. As we celebrate 70 years of excellence in broadcasting, it is reassuring to know that the future is safe as Radio Jamaica is bringing all the technologies and platforms together to deliver true interactivity, one person at a time inspiring and connecting us with each other. I am proud to extend good wishes to the hard-working teams that make this all possible. The station remains a training ground for some of the country’s best and brightest journalists and personalities who can celebrate 70 magnificent years of Boss Radio. MESSAGES Joseph Matalon Chairman, RJRGLEANER Communications Group Gary Allen Chief Executive Officer, RJRGLEANER Communications Group