Repetitions galore …on radio

Source:Island

The lockdowns, which crop up on a regular basis, have enabled me to give ear to some of our local radio stations…let’s say, more frequently than I would normally do – the oldies stations, in particular.

Unfortunately, I haven’t seen any improvements – for the better. These stations are made up of ONLY request programmes, with almost the same names being mentioned, on air…let’s say, 24/7.

Can’t those in charge bring in more variety where the daily programme lineup is concerned!

And, then, those who present these programmes are so stereotype in their presentation that one could predict what’s coming next – not forgetting ‘on board the show.’

There is no warmth in their presentation – just some shouting and nothing else; they seem to take a great delight in rattling away the names of requestees.

I wonder how listeners can give ear to such boring stuff – unless, of course, they are only concerned about hearing their names being read out, on air, in ‘fast mode.’

There is one female presenter (announcer) who seems more concerned about projecting her accent, on air, and her famous…’locked on.’

Even the news bulletins are way below the required standard. Here again one finds it hard to understand what a particular newsreader says as her voice lacks the quality of a good newsreader.

These are some of the qualities you need in order to excel in your profession, as a radio personality (presenter/announcer):

* You should have a good voice and a good command over the language you are asked to deliver in. The voice should be charming and influential at the same time. You don’t have to fake anything; be spontaneous. Just be yourself and conquer the world through your words.

* People are attracted to those who have a good sense of humour. Your voice should do the magic and your sense of humour will help you achieve this. Jokes, punch-lines and your art of speaking will hold the audience. You should be able to add funny elements in your speech rather than making it boring. Healthy sarcasm will help you steal the audience.

* This isn’t the connectivity of your phone but your connectivity with the people. You should be outspoken and connect to people. You should enjoy talking to people and create a bond with them.

* Be flexible and adaptable. Practice voice modulation and mimicry.

* Give the impression that you are talking to one person – not an audience.

In the good ole days we had great radio announcers, in the calibre of Jimmy Bharucha, Leon Belleth, Vijaya Corea, Mark Anthony Fernando, Chris Greet, to name a few, as well as Brad Stevens (in action, on Sundays, on EFM – all the way from Australia – The Brad and Kiara show) and Ravi John.