Commercial radio has been around since 1920 and many anticipated its downfall when video became increasingly accessible. But while it’s not the reigning king it was many years ago, radio is still alive and kicking.

To many people, radio is their entertainment fix, filling the air with songs and voices. The importance and staying power of the medium was proven recently when ABS-CBN’s old radio frequency went back on-air. Radio’s reach and accessibility are undefeated. 

The medium has evolved through the years to meet our demands. What used to be charismatic radio stars discussing hot topics are now podcasts, with topics ranging from music history to people just talking about what they find interesting. Dramas have also found a home in this new landscape. 

As technology runs the whole nine yards to glue our eyes to a screen, a medium with no visual may seem obsolete. But it will endure as long as we require media for passive listening while doing something else. 

Maybe radio’s longevity is a testament to our aversion to being buried in another reality all the time. Maybe not every piece of tech has to be constantly upgrading itself with new features. 

Maybe, with this piece of tech, we got it right the first time.

With input from Snow Schnabel

Cover photo by Evita Sindayen