Industry News 17 July 2020

Keeping the nation smiling: the week in radio

We’re currently living through challenging times. Whether you tune in for the news, entertainment or a bit of companionship, it’s never been more important for radio to support its listeners.

You might be working from home, social distancing, or on the frontlines. Radio offers audiences a few moments of distraction, a voice in the room, and a bit of joy in a time when it’s needed more than ever. Some good songs, funny content and a few moments of collective positivity can all have an impact on your day.

Every week, we round up some of the best moments in commercial radio from the last seven days for your enjoyment. Whether you caught them live or want to listen back, check them out below.

 

Raise a glass to Baz

After a listener shared that they had lost one of their jobs and couldn’t afford to go out for a pint now that pubs are open again in Scotland, the Chris Moyles team suggested he set up a funding page for a whip-round to buy him a pint. The results were beyond everyone’s expectations and will go towards far more than a drink.

 

Listening to different Accents

Award-winning composer, multi-instrumentalist, producer, songwriter, DJ & cultural pioneer Nitin Sawhney has joined Scala Radio to present a special four-part series, Accents, exploring classical music from across the globe, ultimately looking to redefine traditional ideas of what classical music is.

 

United across Asian radio

A special six-part series, ‘Monty Panesar In Lockdown With’, supported by the Audio Content Fund, is broadcasting on various Asian radio stations in the UK. Former England cricketer Monty Panesar speaks with some of the most notable members of the Asian community, offering insights into their lives. Earlier this week, Panjab Radio aired one of the first episodes, with comedian Paul Chowdhry.

 

Celebrating an iconic event

On the 35th anniversary of Live Aid, Claire Sturgess caught up with Bob Geldof to chat about his memories from the iconic event – covering everything from his fashion choices (and Bowie’s reaction to his outfit) to feeling how he’d bitten off more than he could chew.

 

Tissues at the ready

Last week, Heart listener Debra won £30,000 in Heart’s £30k Triple Play competition. Her reaction to the news on-air was an emotional whirlwind that also set Amanda Holden off, as Debra shared how the win would give her family ‘breathing space’ after a very difficult time.

 

Has your station launched a new segment, had someone interesting on a show or done something else great this week? Let us know by contacting coral.williamson@radiocentre.org