Boston, Massachusetts is a city known for its rich history, diverse culture, and top-notch educational institutions. But did you know that it is also home to a thriving radio scene? From commercial stations to community-run programs, Boston has a wide range of radio options for listeners to tune into.
The Rise of Radio in Boston
The first radio station in Boston, WBZ, was established in 1921 by Westinghouse Electric Corporation. It was initially used for experimental broadcasts, but soon became a popular source of news and entertainment for the city. Over the years, more stations were added to the airwaves, including WEEI, WGBH, and WBUR.However, it wasn't until the 1960s that college and university radio stations started to emerge in Boston.These stations were run by students and focused on providing alternative programming that was not found on commercial stations. Today, these college and university radio stations continue to play an important role in the city's radio landscape.
The Role of College and University Radio Stations
College and university radio stations in Boston serve as a platform for students to gain hands-on experience in broadcasting, journalism, and music production. These stations are run by students, with guidance from faculty advisors, and offer a diverse range of programming that reflects the interests and passions of the student body. One such station is WERS, located at Emerson College. This station has been on the air since 1949 and is known for its eclectic mix of music, including indie rock, hip hop, and electronic.It also features news and talk shows, giving students the opportunity to develop their skills in journalism and broadcasting.
WZBC
, based at Boston College, is another popular college radio station in the city. It has been on the air since 1960 and is known for its alternative music programming, as well as its coverage of local sports events. The station also hosts a variety of specialty shows, including a weekly show dedicated to showcasing local musicians.Community Radio in Boston
In addition to college and university stations, Boston also has a strong community radio presence. These stations are run by non-profit organizations and focus on serving the needs and interests of specific communities within the city.WMBR
, based at MIT, is one such community radio station.It has been on the air since 1961 and is known for its diverse programming, which includes music, talk shows, and news. The station also hosts a variety of specialty shows, such as a weekly show dedicated to showcasing music from different countries.
WZMR
, located in Roxbury, is another community radio station that has been serving the city since 1980. It focuses on providing programming that reflects the interests and concerns of the local African American community. The station also offers training programs for aspiring broadcasters and journalists.The Future of Radio in Boston
With the rise of digital media and streaming services, some may question the relevance of traditional radio.However, radio continues to be a popular medium for listeners in Boston. In fact, according to a recent survey by Nielsen Audio, radio reaches 92% of adults in the Boston market each week. Furthermore, college and university radio stations continue to play an important role in shaping the future of radio in Boston. These stations provide a platform for students to experiment with new ideas and push the boundaries of traditional radio programming. They also serve as a training ground for the next generation of broadcasters and journalists.
Conclusion
From its humble beginnings in the 1920s to its current diverse and vibrant landscape, radio in Boston has come a long way.College and university stations, along with community radio, have added a unique and valuable element to the city's radio scene. As technology continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these stations adapt and continue to thrive in the ever-changing world of radio.
