NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2025 30 RADIO JAMAICA 75TH ANNIVERSARY FEATURE | THE SUNDAY GLEANER | AUGUST 31, 2025 IN THE rapidly evolving media landscape, obsolescence has become a common occurrence. Print newspapers are nearing extinction, broadcast television is threatened by the plethora of choices offered by cable and streaming services, and wire services are being outpaced by the Internet and citizen journalists armed with smartphones.Yet, amid these shifting tides, one medium remains steadfast: radio. Radio has proven to be an enduring force, uniquely positioned to thrive in today’s world. Its most signi cant advantage lies in its accessibility, particularly as legislation increasingly restricts the use of phones, televisions, and other devices while driving. Radio continues to be the primary source of information and entertainment on the road. Despite the rise of satellite radio, people still prefer to tune in to their favourite local stations. Integrating emerging technologies into vehicles – already a reality in luxury models – will soon allow drivers to select Internet radio stations with simple voice commands. While this may not necessarily increase the market share of individual stations and does pose challenges related to copyright, the demand for local radio remains strong. Services like 1Spot Media exemplify how listeners can stay connected to their favourite local stations far from home. The timeless appeal of local radio is undeniable. Whether in New York or Afghanistan, the need to stay informed about events in places like Hanover or St Catherine remains a powerful draw. Listeners crave the familiar Jamaican voices and the local perspective on news and culture, a connection that transcends distance. Even visitors who have experienced Jamaica yearn to hear Jamaican radio when they return home, easing their longing for another trip to the island. For radio to sustain its relevance, it must continue to resonate with younger audiences while catering to the needs of senior citizens and those in middle age. Radio Jamaica, in particular, has created a platform where the public can express their views, with call-in shows like Hot-Line and news programs like Beyond the Headlines offering a space for diverse voices to be heard. The interactive nature of radio, where listeners can engage directly with content, is a unique feature that no other medium can replicate. Local radio understands the pulse of the culture in a way that no other media can, making it an irreplaceable part of the community. As other forms of media evolve or fade away, radio will continue to stand tall. Its deep-rooted connection to its audience, its adaptability to new technology, and its ability to deliver content that resonates on a personal level ensure that radio will remain a vital part of our lives for years to come. The resilient future of radio broadcasting Even visitors who have experienced Jamaica yearn to hear Jamaican radio when they return home, easing their longing for another trip to the island.
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