I gotta tell it like it is, I’ve been completely uninspired by what’s on FM radio these days. And having worked for a major radio company in the past, am still baffled by how many solid songs and artists continue to get ignored. Although, I was pleasantly surprised to here Alessia Cara’s “Here” on NYC’s Z100 the other day. So props for that one thing…
Anyways, we all know that radio programmers play far too much of the same songs to the point of exhaustion. So in that regard I guess it’s OK that some of the best emerging artists and songs never “make it” to the airwaves. I mean, I really have no desire to get sick of the songs I enjoy. BUT at the end of the day, as a music industry professional and even as a general music fan, I still often find myself wondering why certain songs and artists get played and others don’t.
When I worked for that major radio company I mentioned at the top, I had the amazing opportunity to take part in the programming of a digital radio station for brand new, emerging (and even unsigned!) musicians. It was one of the highlights of my career to date. I got to thinking on my way into work one morning last week, what songs I’d like to spin (in moderation) if I had my own radio station. Here’s the songs I’ve come up with and who my audience would be for each:
The 1975 “The City” – Excuse my french, but how the fuck has this song not been spun even once on a major NYC radio station? For those who enjoy euphoric anthems.
Banks “Beggin For Thread” – For those who enjoy off-center, dark pop that’s catchy as hell.
Klingande “Jubel” – For those who enjoy life, basically. And sick beats.
Lana Del Rey “National Anthem” – Underrated jam. For those who enjoy the underdog.
Lilla Salskapet “Om vingarna bar” – For those who can enjoy the music even though they don’t have a clue what the song is about.
LIZ “XTC” – For those who liked 1998 because this one could’ve come out that year.
M83 “Midnight City” – I know people know this song but I don’t think they’ve heard it enough. For those who prefer the nighttime.
Mas Ysa “Margarita” – For those who enjoy perfection because this song is close to it. Oh and sax solo’s because perfection always involves a sax solo I don’t care what anyone says.
Tobias Jesso Jr. “How Could You Babe” – For those who enjoy a solid throwback sound and don’t mind slowing things down for just under 4 minutes.
Twin Shadow “Old Love/New Love” – For those who enjoy dancing even when they are sober.
Until The Ribbon Breaks “Revolution Indifference” f/ Run The Jewels – For those who enjoy putting their music up to 11 (yes, that’s a Spinal Tap reference).
Years & Years “Take Shelter” – For those who enjoy traveling because this trio is from the UK, where the music is way ahead of our time.
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