Radio has been a consistent and powerful source of information, music and connection for more than a century. In that time, it has transformed the landscape of mass media, democratized access to music and significantly impacted American culture – and it continues to draw in more people than any other type of media.
Today, 9 out of 10 Americans listen to iHeart broadcast radio every month, a quarter of a billion monthly listeners across all ages, genders and ethnicities. The staying power of radio is largely driven by its unrivaled ease of access and inclusivity; the ability for listeners to continuously discover new music and artists; and most importantly the companionship and personal connections listeners have with the on-air personalities – a trusted and emotional connection that can’t be found with other mediums.
This National Radio Day, we asked some of the most beloved radio personalities across the country – who have become the friends that keep us informed and entertained on a daily basis – to share their thoughts on what radio means to them, how the medium continually evolves and what they love most about their time on the airwaves. Here’s what they shared:
- “There’s a sacred bond between a radio host and the listener – it’s a trusted and valued relationship that can’t be underestimated. The Delilah show is unique because it’s real, it’s me – it’s real callers, real conversations. Nothing is scripted. My audience is an active audience – they are actively listening, and they respond.”– Delilah, the most-listened-to U.S. female radio host heard across more than 150 stations nationwide.
- “Broadcast radio is special because it creates a personal connection between the listener and the host. It’s an accessible medium that brings communities together with real-time content, providing a mix of entertainment, news, and culture. My favorite part about being on the radio is engaging with listeners and making a positive impact on their day. Broadcast radio stands apart because of its immediacy and authenticity. It offers live, real-time content that can adapt to current events and audience needs, providing a human touch that algorithms can’t replicate. Plus, it’s free and accessible to everyone.” – Enrique Santos, host of The Enrique Santos Show – America’s #1 bicultural morning radio show – and On the Move with Enrique Santos., which is heard on more than 200 stations nationwide
- “Broadcast radio is a direct conversation with the listener. On an everyday basis, we are your friend, but particularly when there are times when we need to come together like Hurricane Sandy, the pandemic, George Floyd, and other historical events, we really see the impact we have and the trust we have earned from our community. We also shine a light on people doing amazing things and small businesses, which is near and dear to me.” – Angela Yee, host of the award-winning, nationally-syndicated Way Up with Angela Yee radio program and the popular Lip Service podcast
- “We have the live connectivity to be in the moment with our audience and to celebrate the listener as well as the advertiser. We do it all LIVE in one place- contesting, music, info, traffic, relatable stories, interviews, sports, comedy, charity, discussions…No one else can do it but radio.” – Ellen K, host of the Ellen K Morning Show on KOST 103.5, one of Los Angeles’ leading morning shows.
- “What’s special about broadcast radio is it’s live and free. My favorite part about being on the radio is having a direct connection to everyday working-class people. Speaking with them and seeing what’s on their minds every morning.” – Charlamagne tha God, co-host of The Breakfast Club, the most-listened-to Hip Hop morning show in America, and founder of The Black Effect Podcast Network.
- “The connection with my audience is the most special thing about broadcast radio to me. I feel like my job is to be a companion to a countless number of people as they listen to one of my shows. And there is an immense amount of trust given to me by my audience.” – Bobby Bones, host of The Bobby Bones Show, the No. 1 syndicated Country morning show on more than 180 affiliates across the U.S.
Radio continues to reach and connect with millions of listeners across the country and with iHeartMedia, through its broadcast radio stations and its iHeartRadio app, listeners stay connected no matter where they are – across more than 500 platforms and over 2,000 connected devices. Whether it’s global breaking news, discovering a new band, or simply having a familiar voice to keep us company, iHeartRadio has it covered 24/7. Check it out and tune in to your favorite local live stations HERE.