DC Entertainment Radio: Keeping Up With Technology

Entertainment radio is common in most people's lives, we listen to the radio in the car, at events and sometimes at home. However, with the advent of new technology, it is uncertain whether entertainment radio will be able to change with the times, or if it is necessary for it to change.


The rise of web-based music stations such as Pandora and Spotify are certainly a threat to traditional radio, but they do lack the personality that entertainment radio brings. While some people want to simply listen to music, many appreciate the DJs and talk shows on their favorite stations. Radio is able to bring a local flavor to entertainment, and the wide variety of stations allow people to personalize their experience with radio. This is something that large online stations are unable to do as of yet.

Another aspect of radio that has yet to be implemented with online-only stations is automobile integration. With people primarily tuning in while driving, this is a huge monopoly for traditional radio. Online stations are harder to access from a vehicle, so until it becomes a standard for cars, it seems like traditional radio will have the upper hand in reaching listeners.

I spoke with Amanda Zimmerman about her findings on entertainment radio in DC and she agreed that it isn't going anywhere fast. With the diversity radio brings to the population, people will be hard-pressed to find an alternative as widely available and inexpensive as radio.