February 13 is World Radio Day, a day to celebrate the medium, honour the contributions of broadcasters, and keep the spirit of communication alive in music and conversation.
The idea of a worldwide day dedicated to celebrating radio was first proposed by Spain in 2010, and a year later it was unanimously accepted by the UNESCO Member States. Radio reaches people around the globe and celebrates humanity in all its diversity.
Tune in for special programming on Friday, February 13, and happy World Radio Day from CKUA.
Alberta Morning, with host Grant Stovel
6am – 9am MT
Hear stories and music about the important and adventuresome ways that radio has bound communities together and built understanding over the past century-plus. Enjoy tales about renegades like the legendary “border” radio and “pirate” radio stations of yesteryear, morale-inspiring broadcasters like Radio Free Europe and WJZZ (the first-ever African American-owned station), and contemporary community-powered radio broadcasters, such as the mighty CKUA!
This Just In, with host Amy van Keeken
9am – 11am MT
Amy is inviting listeners to get in touch by text or email to share radio reminiscences. What are the first radio shows you can remember hearing? What did your childhood radio look like? How have you listened to the radio over the years? (Transistor radio? In the old station wagon? In the barn? Playing over loudspeakers at the outdoor rink?) Who is your favourite radio voice of all time? What is your favourite radio program of all time?
The Wild Card, with guest host Spencer Streichert
6pm – 7pm MT
Do you know how many country musicians have also been radio hosts? Join guest host Spencer Streichert, who says, “I thought World Radio Day would be a great time to look at the artists who started their careers behind the mic as announcers.” Streichert mentions Waylon Jennings and Hank Snow. He also says you might just hear a Brooks & Dunn song as well, because Kix Brooks hosted the radio program American Country Countdown for nearly two decades.
Special Live Broadcast from The Canmore Warm Up
7pm – 9pm MT
CKUA is heading to the mountains, and we’ll have a special broadcast, live from the stage at the Canmore Warm Up. First, hear Curt Young & The Healers. Their message “Music is Medicine, Dancing is Freedom” and their set is going to be unforgettable. Next up, Angelique Francis Band will wow you with electrifying joy, instrumental abilities, and powerful textured vocals.
