Radio is a gift to mankind. It’s estimated that radio broadcasts reach nearly 90% of the world.
Of course, that means radio is a big business. Globally, the US radio industry rakes in around $40 billion each year.
That fact only makes community radio stations that more vital. Here’s your guide to the difference community radio makes in Brentwood and Billericay.
Brentwood and Billericay
Before we talk community radio, let’s learn about the community. Brentwood and Billericay are located in Essex and boast a long history.
It’s thought that people have lived in the area since the bronze age. These days, you’ll find an area dedicated to parks, animal preserves, and other nature spots.
This close-knit community values the little things that set it apart. It celebrates its rich history by preserving traditional plays and dances while also building new traditions, like adding a new community cinema.
What Is Community Radio?
The people of Brentwood and Billericay proudly support their local arts. Their community radio stations are no different.
What makes a community station? The two main points are that the station must not make a profit and has to serve the local community.
The bigger radio stations have a far broadcast footprint. As such, they have to meet a wide range of general needs.
Community stations give a voice to locals to speak about their community. They provide valuable representation to those who would be overlooked by for-profit stations.
Community Radio Stations in Brentwood and Billericay
Phoenix FM is the local station that serves the Brentwood and Billericay area. Founded in 1996, it’s been going strong for over 20 years.
The station originally ran on restricted service licenses which allow anyone to broadcast for less than a month. It added 24-hour online broadcasting in 1999, then earned its community license in 2006.
Phoenix has been going full-time since then. Let’s look at the diverse range of programs it offers.
Wide Variety of Community Voices
The programming that Phoenix FM offers shines a light on a wide variety of community voices. One look at their lineup and you sure to find something you’ll love!
There are pop and rock shows, but also chat shows, comedy acts, music from all-female bands and obscure songs and sounds you may not have heard before.
You can catch up on cricket, learn about local and global news, and hear the latest from community authors, artists, musicians, and more.
With all of the great things Phoenix has to offer, you’ll need a calendar maker to make sure you don’t miss a single show!
Tune In and Turn it Up
With community radio, you can learn more about your neighbors and get involved in local matters that affect you. Plus, you’ll discover hours of entertainment that you won’t find anywhere else.
You can listen to Phoenix FM anywhere, too. Look for their online broadcasts and check out some of their podcasts.
Don’t miss out on the wonderful world of community radio station programming. Look up their local schedule and tune in today!
