As someone who has been on air for nearly 60 years, I’ve seen my fair share of exciting and nail-biting races for the number one single.
However, I have to admit that in recent years, the race for the top spot just isn’t as exciting as it used to be. But before you start thinking that I’m out of touch, hear me out.
The way people listen to music has changed dramatically in recent years, with new apps like Spotify dominating the market.
Gone are the days when people would rush to the record store to buy the latest single or album. Now, everything is just a click away, and people can listen to their favourite songs on demand, anywhere, anytime. I know I do.
While this may have taken away some of the excitement of the race for the number one single, it has also opened up a whole new world of music to people.
In fact, with the rise of podcasts, people’s listening habits have changed even further. Podcasts have become a huge part of people’s daily routines, with millions tuning in to listen to their favourite shows.
This has forced radio to adapt, with many broadcasters now offering podcasts of their own shows, as well as creating new podcasts to cater to the changing tastes of their listeners.
While all of this may seem like bad news for radio and the music industry, I’m actually quite optimistic about the future. I know, for example, how many people listen to my Sounds of the 60s show on ‘catch-up’ rather than live on a Saturday morning. It is a huge number and growing every week.
Yes, the way people consume music and other audio content has changed, but that doesn’t mean that there isn’t a place for radio or traditional music charts; the two can work together to create a more exciting and diverse listening experience for people.
Take, for example, the collaboration between Radio 1 and the Official Charts Company. This new partnership has breathed new life into the UK singles chart, with the charts now reflecting both sales and streams.
This means that even though people are streaming music more than ever, the charts are still relevant and meaningful.
And let’s not forget the power of live radio. There’s something special about hearing a new song for the first time on the radio, with a presenter talking about it and sharing their thoughts.
Radio still has the ability to break new artists and make a song a hit, and I don’t think that will ever change.
So, while the race for the number one single may not be as exciting as it used to be, I’m confident that there is still a bright future for radio and the music industry.
New apps like Spotify and the rise of podcasts may have changed the way people consume music and audio content, but they have also opened up a whole new world of possibilities.
As broadcasters and music lovers, it’s up to us to adapt and embrace these changes, and I, for one, am excited to see what the future holds.
It’s not just the music industry and broadcasting that has undergone significant change in recent years, either. The way we care for our elderly loved ones has also evolved.
Multi-generational living has become increasingly popular, with many families opting to build annexes or convert existing space to accommodate their elderly relatives.
This allows the elderly to maintain their independence while still being close to their families, creating a sense of community and support.
As an ambassador for iHus, I’m proud to be associated with a company that is at the forefront of this trend.
Their innovative approach to building custom annexes that are tailored to the needs of the individual is truly impressive.
It’s heartening to see that even as we embrace new technology and ways of living, we are still finding ways to stay connected and care for one another.
Multi-generational living is a testament to the enduring importance of family and community, and I’m excited to see where this trend will lead us in the future.
Get in touch with iHus
iHus have over ten years of experience – and over 400 bespoke, garden home constructions, under their belt. We’re well-versed in the financial difficulties people are currently facing. Get in touch with iHus today and discover how they can help create an annexe space that you – or your family, can truly call home.
