AM Radio - You've Yet To Have Your Finest Hour

In an era dominated by digital streaming and on-demand content, where listeners have an extensive array of options at their fingertips, there's a certain charm and significance to the realm of AM radio.

If you started in radio broadcasting 30 years ago....it's very likely that you dipped your toes in AM in some fashion. In my case, "running the board" for the Boston Red Sox or making sure Paul Harvey was able to give "the rest of the story".

Despite the rapid evolution of technology, AM radio has managed to hold its ground, captivating audiences with its unique characteristics and providing an essential platform for diverse voices and content. J

The Birth and Rise of AM Radio

The history of AM (Amplitude Modulation for radio geeks like me) radio dates back to the late 19th century when inventors like Guglielmo Marconi and Nikola Tesla conducted pioneering work in wireless transmission. However, it was not until the early 20th century that AM radio gained widespread popularity. The invention of the vacuum tube by Lee De Forest in 1907 played a pivotal role in improving signal quality and amplification, setting the stage for the rapid expansion of radio broadcasting.

The 1920s marked a turning point for AM radio, as it transitioned from being a medium for point-to-point communication to a mass medium for entertainment and information. The first commercial AM radio station, KDKA in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, went on the air in 1920, broadcasting the results of the U.S. presidential election. This landmark event laid the foundation for a new era of radio broadcasting, captivating millions of listeners across the nation.

AM Radio and its Prominent Personalities

Throughout its history, AM radio has been home to a plethora of talented and influential personalities, whose voices have shaped the cultural and political landscape of their time. These radio hosts and broadcasters had the power to engage, inform, and entertain audiences, making them an integral part of people's lives.

1. Orson Welles: Welles gained fame through his infamous radio adaptation of H.G. Wells' "War of the Worlds" in 1938, which sparked panic among listeners who mistook it for a real alien invasion. Again, another moment for radio geeks to relish.
2. Edward R. Murrow: A distinguished journalist and broadcaster, Murrow brought insightful reporting to the airwaves during World War II and the Cold War era. His fearless reporting from London during the Blitz remains a testament to the power of radio in delivering news to the masses. When my grandfather passed away...I discovered tapes of him and The Shadow!
3. Paul Harvey: Known for his distinctive voice and his segment "The Rest of the Story," Harvey captivated listeners with his storytelling prowess and unique perspective on news and events. It's really interesting to me...because just a few weeks ago a colleague and I were getting nostalgic talking about Paul Harvey's radio delivery. He really made you feel like he was telling YOU a story. This is something all broadcasters still need to do. It's a lost art with voicetracking and espeially with AI.
4. Rush Limbaugh: With his conservative political commentary, Limbaugh became one of the most influential voices in American talk radio, shaping public opinion and fueling political discourse.

The Importance of Preserving AM Radio in 2023

1. Diversity of Content: AM radio continues to offer a diverse range of programming, including news, sports, talk shows, and specialized content that caters to niche interests. Unlike many digital platforms that rely on algorithms and user preferences, AM radio serves as a vital source of information and entertainment that brings together communities and offers perspectives that might otherwise go unnoticed.
2. Local Connection: AM radio stations often have a strong local presence, connecting communities and providing a platform for local news, events, and discussions. From weather updates to local interviews and coverage, AM radio acts as a vital lifeline, especially during emergencies and natural disasters when other communication channels may be disrupted.
3. Accessibility and Reliability: AM radio is available to anyone with a radio, regardless of their income or access to technology. This makes it an important source of information for people who may not have access to the internet or digital streaming services. Believe it or not...this is still a thing in 2023.

I left out that AM most recently has been used to boost "translator" signals and while that is incredibly important and successful...it really doesn't speak to the reason why AM is still important.

While technology continues to advance, there are enduring reasons why vehicle manufacturers should keep AM radio in their offerings. From its reliable communication capabilities to its cost-effectiveness, AM radio provides drivers with valuable information and entertainment options. Furthermore, it keeps communities connected, promotes local content, and taps into the emotional connection of tradition and nostalgia. By integrating AM radio into modern vehicles, manufacturers can enhance the driving experience, cater to diverse user preferences, and ensure access to essential information, all while honoring the legacy of this timeless broadcasting medium.

As QUEEN said:

Let's hope you never leave, old friend

Like all good things, on you we depend

So stick around, 'cause we might miss you

When we grow tired of all this visual