Old/New Media

So I am writing this at 10.30 in the morning with a tear in my eye. I have just listened to the last every Chris Moyles Breakfast show on Radio 1. For the past 8 and a half years every morning he has been on the air, with his team, telling things as he sees them. Sometimes controversial, sometimes thought provoking but always entertaining. His was a brand of radio show that is missing, more talk, less music, but always well thought out. 8 and a half years is a long time to listen to one show. I think I have missed about 4 weeks in that time, when I have been on holiday or away on business. I have listened to the highs and lows and today, watching for the last time I saw both the fun, enjoyment and respect that Chris brings to the radio. And it got me thinking. We live in a high technology age, where "new media" is talked about as the future and, don't get me wrong, I am an avid user of twitter, facebook, mensch and other social media sources. When news breaks these are usually the best ways to get updates, find out the latest and keep on top of things, but they are, in essence, a very flat media. They show you what is there. But Radio is wonderful. Take the following example:



 The commentary "he drops for world cup glory" was from Radio 5 live. The screams of yes yes yes, came from Rob Andrew, Johnny Wilkinson's club manager at Newcastle. But in that minute of commentary, all of the emotions came out. A special moment was elevated into the stratosphere. Radio is that friend in the corner of the room. The voice in the car on those long journeys. That informs, entertains and brings descriptiveness to you in a very unique way. Those commentators and presenters on the radio are a unique brand, they have to say the right amount of words, in the right way and at the right time. For me, radio brings the drama to sporting events. It brings the seriousness to the news stories and the colour to major national events. Radio should never die. Sad as I am that the Chris Moyles show has ended, I know that radio won't. It brings hope to millions, comfort and solace to others. It is a friend in times of struggle and hardship. It is Radio. And, as fitting tribute, the Chris Moyles show team say goodbye in their own way:

=Graham Armstrong=