(Based on a visit to Israel Broadcasting Authority Radio Studio
and Interview with Mr. Izi Man - Radio Announcer and Editor.)  

A group of  kids come in to a radio station to learn about broadcasting: 

Y:  Do you think that radio has a real effect on the public?

I:  Sure,  a very large part of the population listens to radio, especially for news, but also for music and public interest stories. Many people like the programs where people call in and give their opinions or tell about their hard times looking for advice or help!

R:  When did radio become so important?

I:  The first licensed broadcasting station, KDKA, went on the air in November, 1920 in Pittsburgh, Pa.. The first broadcast was to publicize  the results of the American Presidential elections! Most of the broadcasting schedule of the station was music. After a few years, hundreds of radio stations were broadcasting to thousands of  listeners. By the end of the 1920's, two national networks, NBC and CBS were running stations across the country and getting paid money for sponsored advertising. Radio broadcasting was also put under federal regulation.In 1936, about 8 million receivers were sold and 3 out of 4 US families had a radio in their homes. 

Y: Did radios broadcast the same kind of  programs in the past as they do now?

I: Between the 1930's and the 1950's, radio programs were the main form of mass entertainment and communication. Radio stations broadcast variety, comedy, soap operas, serious drama, live music and quiz shows. People actually sat around the big radio in the living room listening to radio dramas and soap operas. During radio's early years, the record companies and newspapers fought the radio medium. They were afraid that if the stations would broadcast recorded music or news, people would no longer buy records or newspapers. With World War II the radio broadcasts gave more and more coverage about the war effort and progress. It became a very important medium for hearing news.

R.: When did TV come in to the picture?

I.: In the late 1940's television began catching on across the US. Both radio and movies suffered as more and more viewers spent their leisure time in front of the little screen. In order to keep its audience, radio began playing more records and giving local news and affairs. With the birth of rock and roll in the 1950's and the arrival of the Beatles in the 1960's, radio started to provide the new music to a thirsty audience - the youth!  DJ's playing the top 40 hit marches took over the airwaves!

FORWARD