Radio

Remember the radio?

This might sound like a dramatic question, but there probably aren’t as many people tuning in as there used to be. Just like terrestrial broadcasts have been overshadowed by OTT services, radio has long made room for streaming services. Of course, I don’t go out of my way to listen either. But when I do get the chance, what’s that unique charm that makes me focus on radio? 🎧

Maybe it’s the joy of eavesdropping on stories from people I’ve never met.

Ever heard those cute stories listeners send to DJs, like amateur radio operators broadcasting their tales to the masses, or an astronomer sending messages to outer space with no expectation of a reply? Life has gotten complicated, but the messages shared for comfort with strangers haven’t changed much. ‘I want to cheer on my kid’s dad who’s working hard at his job,’ or ‘I didn’t mean it, but I upset my girlfriend with harsh words the other day,’ or even complaints like, ‘Isn’t it way too hot for September already?’ It’s these ordinary tales, and the DJ’s sincere responses — like a store manager replying to Q&A — that keep me from changing the radio channel.

A job where you read listener stories and play music for people you’ll never meet. I’ve never done it, so I can’t say exactly how it feels, but it must be quite different from sharing one earbud with a friend to enjoy a favorite song. After all, it’s a profession. Everyone sometimes doesn’t want to say anything or hear anything. But in this job, for at least an hour a day, you have to react to strangers’ comments and listen to music you might not like. Like a dentist who has to look at others’ teeth all day… In contrast, an office worker who can step out for a smoke anytime seems surprisingly relaxed. (I’m not a fan of smokers personally)

But no matter what anyone says, the magic of radio lies in the music.

I love the anticipation of ‘What song will play next?’ without expecting much. It’s a different charm compared to playlists or algorithm-curated tracks on streaming services — a freedom from being bound to music. And when a song I adore comes on, the joy is indescribable. 🎶

These days, I find myself lounging at home, streaming services on or glued to YouTube, but I’m not sure if that’s a good thing. I wonder just how comfortable I need to be. It’s been ages since I discovered a new artist by chance on the radio, followed their albums, learned their stories, and grew to love them as a person. Now, there’s an abundance of music I might like, but in this forest of high-quality content, I can’t bring myself to notice each tree.

The songs I hear are pleasant, but I don’t care who they belong to or what their titles are. Like scenery passing by a car window or raindrops on leaves, I let them go without a second thought. I might never encounter them again, but I don’t even ask their names. Am I happier now? I’m not sure. But knowing what I lack and its alternatives, I still don’t choose the old ways. I may not be happier, but it’s certainly more convenient, like letting the river carry me to the sea. 🌊

Still, I hope radio stays, just like it is now, so I can have another delightful encounter like today.