FOR the past few years, many people have feared that radio was dying because young listeners aren’t as interested in the medium anymore.
But it seems radio still has a long way to go and a lifeline, as per young people in the streets of Joburg.
As the world celebrates World Radio Day on Tuesday, 13 February, Daily Sun headed to the streets to speak to young people about whether they listen to radio or not.
Katlego Novuyo Kgomo (20), a student from Wits University, said her favourite radio stations are Power FM and Lesedi FM.
“I listen to three radio stations. Metro FM and Power FM, I listened at first because I wanted to improve my English skills. The other station I listen to is Lesedi FM because I wanted to learn Sesotho,” she said.
Nyiko Mabunda (26), who has a YouTube podcast and works as a security guard, said he still listens to radio even though he follows podcasts more now.
“I used to listen to radio a lot when I was at high school, but I no longer listen as much now. It’s because I’ve got work and I’m busy. My favourite station used to be Y, now my favourite is 947. I started listening to Kaya 959 when Sol Phenduka moved there.
“I’m into podcasts now because I enjoy seeing people. With radio, you create an imagination because you only hear voices. I prefer podcasts because you can see someone’s energy and see how dramatic they are,” he said.
ALSO READ: Depressed mbhaqanga star needs help
Fezeka Bhengu said: “Radio keeps me informed about what is happening around the world, but also for entertainment purposes. Most of the time, I listen to Gagasi FM."
Tshwane FM Abongile Baleni (29), who hosts Ride or Drive between 3pm and 6pm, told Daily Sun that they have a special show to celebrate World Radio Day.
“We’ll be broadcasting the show for an hour on the biggest radio station Zambia called Flava Radio.
“I see radio as one of the biggest channels of messaging. I grew up mostly in the Eastern Cape and radio was very big there in the early 2000s and late 90s. I remember when I was young, the battery in our radio died and my granny sent someone to buy a battery at 10pm because she didn’t want to miss anything. That’s when I realised that people really loved radio and I fell in love with it,” he said.
Y presenter Caddy (28), who hosts 12-3pm Lunch League between noon to 3pm, said radio has opened doors for him and he’s grateful.
“I was actually reminded by my phone yesterday (Monday) that it was World Radio Day today. I have it set on my phone and it reminds me every year.
“I love radio mainly because of the music and getting updated about the latest news trends. It has also opened a door for me when it comes to being invited to events and meeting new people all the time, which is awesome,” he said.
He said on radio, the listeners are like his friends.
“It’s like having friends that you don’t see but you know are there every day. You look forward to seeing those friends every day,” Caddy said.
The SABC is also celebrating by doing cross-overs.
Phalaphala FM, Munghana Lonene FM and Thobela FM will broadcast some of their shows at University of Limpopo.
Lotus FM’s The Breakfast, which broadcasts from 6am to 9am, presented Ukhozi FM’s breakfast show.
