“You can only be young once. But you can always be immature.”
- Dave Barry
Good news. I read an article recently saying that there's been a resurgence in the popularity of college radio among Gen Z. They list three main factors driving the surge. 1. Kids have algorithm fatigue and the isolation it produces. 2. Analog Nostalgia: They desire an experience they missed out on, Vinyl, flip phones, film cameras and radio. 3. College radio provides a community outside of classes and social media and helps the “yutes” make a common connection with other humans.
All good news as far as I'm concerned. Back in the day, before algorithms, college radio was vital to me in learning about up and coming bands and artists that I'd never hear on a commercial station. I wasn't going to hear The Replacements, Elvis Costello, Talking Heads, Husker Du, The Cure, et al on K-POP. Without college radio to promote their music and regional shows, I venture to say R.E.M. might never have gotten over the hump. I can't imagine a world without 'em. Thanks college radio.
#1. From their album Life's Rich Pageant, released in 1986.
#2. Wednesday is a band of youngsters out of Asheville, NC.
#3. Buddy Miller is everybody's favorite guy in Nashville, TN. Find someone that doesn't revere him if you can.