Why Do Local Radio Stations Still Play the Same Songs from 30 Years Ago?

It's impossible to deny the weariness that sets in when the same handful of songs are played over and over on classic rock stations. Whether it's the monotony of the same top 200 tracks or the constant loop of core hits from decades past, the repetitiveness can make even the most beloved radio stations feel like a chore to listen to. In many cases, the only place one might find a semblance of variety is in specialized channels like Deep Tracks on SiriusXM, but even those can fall into repetitiveness from time to time.

The Repetitive Conundrum

The question of why these stations are so insistent on playing the same old tunes is not a new one. It's a testament to the fundamental shift in the way music is consumed. Once upon a time, discovering new music was a part of the journey; today, for many listeners, music consumption is more about familiarity and comfort. This has led to a phenomenon where a core audience seeks out and demands the same 200 songs, year after year.

Psychological Comfort and Limitation

There's a psychological aspect to this. Most people, particularly those who have reached their mid-late 30s or older, often haven't "aged mentally." Their tastes and preferences remain fixed somewhere between 15 and 19 years old. This mental stagnation means that songs that were once popular during their formative years still hold a special place in their hearts, even beyond their actual youth. Their preference for the familiar over the novel is why classic rock stations can get away with a limited playlist.

Market and Revenue Pressure

But it's not just mental stagnation at play. Many local radio stations operate with a commercial mentality, prioritizing audience numbers over quality content. Their goal is to harness the power of predictability to corral a large, demographically stable audience. It's a tried-and-true strategy for maximizing listener reach and, importantly, ad revenue. This "commercialisation of content" often results in playlists that are devoid of risks and innovation, focusing instead on what's proven to work.

The Problem of Broadcasting Facilities

The process of establishing a radio station can be daunting, from securing the right frequency to understanding the legal and financial requirements. Essentially, the book "How to Start Your Own Radio Station" emphasizes building the infrastructure before even considering the content, which is placed last in the process. This structured mindset can perpetuate the same-old, same-old in content as well. The focus is on the technical aspect rather than the need to provide a valuable service to the community.

The True Purpose of Radio

The airwaves were once seen as a public service, belonging to the people. However, the current reality is stark. Local radio stations are often owned by commercial entities with no regard for the public good. The failure to prioritize content and service over profit is a significant issue. Instead of being a platform for discovering and connecting with new music and artists, they become vehicles for promoting safe, predictable content to a passive audience.

Conclusion

While the desire for comfort and familiarity is understandable, the repetitive nature of classic rock radio can be a tedious experience for many listeners. This content-driven strategy not only limits the audience's exposure to new music but also fails to serve the community in a meaningful way. For those seeking a more engaging and varied listening experience, perhaps exploring alternative channels or platforms might be the way to go. The future of radio lies not in the past, but in embracing innovation and diversity in both content and audience.