Radio-logy

I think it begins and ends with what we subject ourselves to. For example, Baltimore really only has one radio station that caters primarily towards a young “Urban” demographic, 92Q. So what happens when the majority of this radio station’s rotation is music you’d hear on 106th and Park? Taking nothing away from BET and its programming...yet (that's another post for another day), all of their Top 10 isn’t necessarily something I’d want my kids listening to. Think about it: you’re dropping your 7 year old off at school to the soundtrack of “Birthday Sex.” Is that appropriate? Also, what we hear is a very small glimpse of what Black musicians can offer. Maybe there should be more of a focus on different styles of music, or even local talent. The focus should be to build up the “Q-munity,” right? Sure, one may suggest simply turning the radio off, but how would that be saving others who choose not to take that route? Also, what is that saying about our community? There isn’t really any other alternative in Baltimore for young Urban listeners. Sure we could tune into the DC stations, but if you live in the sticks like I do, reception doesn't come too easy. Is this a lot for one radio station to take on? Maybe. So what is the solution? I have nothing definitive, however I’m thinking we should begin to take more accountability for what we listen to – and what we allow to be heard.