….Radio is So Uninspiring
1. It’s become a science rather than an art. Radio station conglomerates such as Clear Channel now create one-size-fits-all programming for stations across the U.S. - making a radio station in Seattle sound much the same as one in New York, Miami or Dallas.
2. The focus is on attracting as large an audience as possible as opposed to a loyal audience engaged and enthusiastic about what they hear. As a result, there are few risks taken for fear of alienating listeners. Even satellite radio with more than 150 channels can’t micro-program because each slot is so valuable, which means they play it safe as well - albeit with more variety than commercial radio.
3. Many DJs are programming creations rather than real personalities. Does anyone believe there are DJs called Freeway Frank or Mad Dog? Do any them get to play what they want from time to time. When was the last time a DJ said “Hey, I was at a great concert by unknown band last weekend, and you’ve got to hear this song”? Never.
4. Special Canadian reason: In the Great White North, local content rules mean there’s a regular - and annoying - rotation of Neil Young, Tragically Hip, Blue Rodeo, Max Webster, Avril Lavigne and Bryan Adams.
For other thoughts, check out Media Chatter who suggests he would have multiple formats if he owned a commercial radio station.
