For decades, getting airplay on commercial and public radio has been a goal for bands and artists. However, since the late 70’s, radio hosts have been bound by the almighty playlist, which is why we tend to hear the same limited group of songs. But there’s a third form of radio with a lower barrier to entry for indie bands and artists — community radio. While you may have heard talk about the presumed death of radio, my guest today sheds some encouraging light on the value and benefits of community radio.
Jen Parker is Executive Director of KRFC 88.9 FM Radio Fort Collins where she oversees the mission of running a community-based, not-for-profit radio station. She started out in Europe and the U.S. working for noteworthy companies such as Electronic Arts, Ziff-Davis, Imagine Media, Raycom Media/NBC and iHeartMedia. Jen has a life-long passion for music and for creating meaningful community partnerships.
In our conversation Jen shares how community radio can be a valuable resource for indie bands and artists. She shares — with obvious passion — her belief in community radio as a vital contributor to community culture. Jen is also quick to sing the praises of her team and the many volunteers who contribute to the station’s mission.
Because they’re operated and influenced by the locales they serve, community radio stations provide unique programming that includes overlooked and underserved independent artists. Since they’re not constrained by commercial concerns, there’s way more freedom to play a much wider range of music. And thanks to the Internet, these stations can be heard worldwide. Community radio also offers opportunities to learn about broadcasting, marketing and promotion.
Whether you’re a local band or lover of music, you can help to shape the sound of your local community radio station by becoming a volunteer. You can also build relationships with people in the community as part of a team with the mutual goal of sharing your local music and perspective. It a can be a great way to give back to the community while sharing your passion with the world.
To learn more about Jen Parker and KRFC 88.9 FM Radio Fort Collins, click here.
On Friday, April 19th 2019, KRFC 88.9 FM Radio Fort Collins is hosting their “Power The Tower Benefit Concert” at New Belgium Brewery in Fort Collins CO. For tickets and more information, click here.
Further Reading
Community Radio Upholds Beauty, Power of the Small
Reminder: This Is Why We Need Community Radio
A Musician’s Guide to Community Radio: Stations That Will Actually Play Your Music
Why Doesn’t Your Band Get Played on the Radio? Here’s the Ugly Truth…
Why Is Community Radio Important?
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Until next time, may you find your superpower, fuel your passion — light it up!