Reinventing information programming: Radio has to lift its game

Forward by Dave Charles.

Let me introduce you to a true media explorer.

Lee Abrams is a media visionary. With the realities of AI currently changing our visual and auditory perspective its time to peek behind the curtain for a look at what’s coming.

Radio has to lift its game if its going to have a roll in the new frontier of media. Once people start to consume new concepts, the world of information as we know it will not only evolve but change forever.

 

A New Frontier in Media

We find ourselves in a rapidly evolving landscape that resembles the Wild West of the past, marked by the explosive growth of new technologies such as Ai, virtual reality and 3D imaging. Yet, when it comes to video and television information programming, often referred to as content, we seem to be stuck in a time warp, still operating under the outdated paradigms of the 1980s. It’s clear that a complete reinvention of every aspect of information programming is not just necessary; it’s imperative.

To move forward, we must dismantle the antiquated, focus group-driven playbook that has become a relic, often subject to parody. In its place, we need to build a bold and comprehensive solution that revolutionises how we present video information, making it relevant to the demands of today’s digital landscape and complementary to emerging technologies.

 

The Eye: featuring multi-dimensional visuals

The visual aspect of programming must harness the power of imagery in all its forms. Whether it’s breathtaking cinematography or gritty black-and-white footage, the goal is to utilise every imaginable visual medium—from retro styles to animation, psychedelic visuals to infographics. The result? A cinematic experience that transforms traditional news broadcasts into immersive “news movies” that resonate with contemporary audiences.

 

The Ear: the Art of Sound

Sound, often overlooked, plays a critical role in enhancing the viewer’s experience. By reviving the lost art of audio, we can create an environment that is both elevating and cerebral. Imagine a soundtrack that seamlessly blends genres from country to electronic, infused with sound effects and original compositions. This rich auditory tapestry will engage the audience, creating an immersive experience that pulls them into the narrative and heightens the emotional impact of the visuals.

 

The Mind: mass appeal intelligence

We reject the notion of pandering to trends like “millennial nonsense” or relying on superficial charm. Our aim is to evoke genuine emotions, whether it’s anger, inspiration, fear, or delight, through a style that aligns with the real, unfiltered pulse of your community. We focus on delivering mass appeal intelligence without the tired conventions of traditional TV journalism or the latest cultural fads. The emphasis is on authenticity, clarity, and resonance.

 

For those who believe in this mission and possess the capabilities to contribute, the journey will be nothing short of transformative. The challenges ahead are significant, requiring thinking that transcends traditional boundaries and logic. However, the potential rewards are immense: a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to revolutionize an information landscape that has lingered in the outdated TV era, awakening it to the realities of our global digital age.

 

In this new frontier, we have the chance to create something truly groundbreaking. Where programming becomes an art form, engaging the senses and minds of viewers in ways that were previously unimaginable. The future of information.


Dave Charles (left) is the President of Media RESULTS Inc. With more than six decades spent working in radio here and overseas he was inducted into the Canadian Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2024. Lee Abrams (right) has worked as a consultant to over 1,000 radio stations,  12 major print publications, tv stations and cable networks and is the designer of XM satellite radio programming.

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