The Disc Jockey

We have already looked at the brief evolution of the DJ in radio but how does that compare to today’s radio DJ? Broadcast over AM and FM bands or now worldwide on the internet, a radio DJ tends to be more noted for their personality than their actual choice of music as that tends to be the choice of the program producer. A radio DJ primary function is to introduce and discuss music, host talk programs, take calls from listeners or to give information such as news and weather reports.

Since the 1990’s it has become industry choice to look more closely at a radio DJ’s personality rather than their skills in language and technical knowledge. It is for this reason that they no longer tend to be referred to as DJ’s but more likely as Radio Personalities and will often appear at events other than just their radio programs and sometimes their fame and popularity will cross over into other media genres. One example of personalities that have done this is Terry Wogan who moved from radio on to host his own highly popular talk show on television. Kenny Everett also moved into television with his own highly successful comedy show in the 1980’s. Another is Terry Garoghan who became well known for his comedy and created his own stage show which toured Sussex. Current notable British Radio Personalities are Nicky Cambell, Chris Moyles, Jo Whiley, Annie Mac and Vernon Kay all presenting currently on BBC Radio. And let us not forget the legendary fictional radio personality Alan Partridge portrayed by Steve Coogan.