Thoughts on the Future of Radio

The music industry certainly ain’t what it used to be. First Napster, then ultimately iTunes completely changed the game. Terrestrial radio has lost audience to iPods, Internet and Satellite Radio. And costs have never been higher to run a traditional broadcasting company in this country.

How do they compete with all of the emerging platforms? They don’t. But they should consider joining them. It struck me when I was listening to a new Black Keys song on the radio. My first thought “I love this song. I hope I remember to download it from iTunes tonight.” Wait a minute. Isn’t this the same problem most traditional media suffers from? A 1-sided communication with its audience? Why can’t I download the song right now? While I’m in the car. Captive. I want this song now. And I’m willing to pay for it.

Traditional radio still has the ability to deliver mass audience. They should give Apple a call. Imagine: Listen. Love. Download. How great would that be?