Affinity Radio

Anecdote To Radio Burnout

2026-06-20T14:00:17.788+01:00

Why Affinity Radio is Keeping it Commercial-Free?

We’ve all been there. You’re driving down the road, or deep in the zone at your desk,

singing along to a classic track, when suddenly—screech. The music cuts out, and an overly enthusiastic voice starts blasting an advert for car insurance, local double-glazing, or a fast-food deal. Your mood evaporates, your focus breaks, and you find yourself hitting the scan button in frustration.

For millions of music lovers, the modern radio landscape has become a minefield of corporate playlists and repetitive ad breaks.

Mainstream giants like BBC Radio 2 and Heart once held the keys to our daily soundtracks, but corporate formulaic scheduling and relentless commercialism have left a growing void.

Enter Affinity Radio Kent.

Broadcasting 24/7 from the heart of Kent, UK, this independent internet radio station is doing things differently. Their mission is remarkably simple, yet increasingly rare in today’s media landscape: to provide a pure, uninterrupted, and entirely commercial-free listening experience driven by a genuine passion for music.

Reclaiming the Lost Art of Niche Programming.

When major radio groups consolidate, the first thing to go is variety. Playlists get shrunk down to a tight, hyper-vetted loop of standard hits, and specialized genres are pushed to the absolute fringes of the midnight hours.

Affinity Radio was born directly out of that disillusionment. The team recognized that listeners crave something deeper than a repetitive "Top 40" wheel. By stepping away from the traditional broadcast model and embracing the freedom of web-based streaming, Affinity has revived the niche programming that big stations abandoned.

On any given day, you aren't just getting generic background noise. The schedule is a curated journey through decades of musical history. Take a look at their programming lineup, and you'll find clever, dedicated slots that celebrate the depth of the charts rather than just the surface:

Number Ones at One:

A dedicated hour tracking five decades of chart-topping masterpieces.

Number 2s at Two: Giving the spotlight to the incredible tracks that just missed the top spot but defined an era.

Number 3s at Three: Continuing the deep dive into legendary top-three tracks across fifty years of music.

From driving daytime hits to evening jazz explorations and retro countdowns, the music choices are vast, unexpected, and distinctly human.

Why Commercial-Free Matters

Going commercial-free isn't just about avoiding a few annoying jingles. It fundamentally changes the relationship between the station and the listener.

When a station depends on advertising revenue, the advertiser becomes the primary customer. Playlists are engineered to be safe, segments are chopped into rigid three-minute blocks to squeeze in maximum ad runtime, and the overall rhythm of the broadcast feels clinical.

Because Affinity Radio strips the commercials away, their sole focus remains exactly where it belongs: on the listeners and the music. It allows presenters the breathing room to share the stories behind the tracks, dive into deep cuts, and craft a genuine connection with the audience.

The station's slogan says it all: Your Station - Your Music - Your Choice.

Join the Radio Revolution

Internet radio has opened up a brand-new frontier for people who thought the magic of the airwaves was dead. It proves that you don't need a massive corporate budget to build a loyal community—you just need a dedication to great tunes and entertaining, authentic presentation.

If you are tired of the same twelve songs on repeat, interrupted by a wall of corporate noise, it’s time to change the dial. Head over to affinityradio.net, hit that stream button, and get ready to rediscover the soundtrack of your life—pure, unfiltered, and completely uninterrupted.

Have a favorite track you haven't heard on the airwaves in years?

Tap the Red Button on the Affinity Radio homepage to send in your requests and dedications directly to the studio crew.

Dave Kelly Passes the Torch: A New Era for Affinity Radio Kent

2025-02-28T12:54:00.001+00:00

After nearly 15 years at the helm, Dave Kelly has officially handed over the reins of Affinity Radio to the new Affinity Radio Kent team. This transition marks an exciting new chapter in the station’s history while ensuring that the core values and passion behind Affinity Radio continue to thrive.

Since its inception, Affinity Radio has been a beloved platform for music lovers and radio enthusiasts, growing into a well-respected station under Dave’s leadership. His dedication and commitment have shaped Affinity into a hub of diverse content, engaging listeners across the region and beyond. His tireless efforts in curating high-quality programming and fostering a strong connection with the audience have been instrumental in the station’s success.

As Affinity Radio enters this new phase, the Affinity Radio Kent team is poised to build upon the strong foundation that Dave has established. With fresh energy, innovative ideas, and a deep respect for the station’s legacy, the new team is ready to take Affinity to new heights. Listeners can look forward to exciting developments, enhanced programming, and a continued commitment to delivering top-tier entertainment and community engagement.

While Dave is stepping down from his leadership role, his passion for radio remains unwavering. He will continue to do what he loves most—being a radio presenter—both with Affinity Radio Kent and other stations. His voice, expertise, and charisma will still be a part of the Affinity family, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire and entertain.

The entire Affinity team extends heartfelt thanks to Dave for his years of dedication, hard work, and unwavering passion. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the station and the community it serves. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors and are excited to see where his journey takes him next.

As we move forward, we invite our listeners to join us in celebrating this transition and embracing the new opportunities ahead. The Affinity spirit lives on, and we are eager to embark on this new chapter together.

Stay tuned for more updates, exciting programs, and the continued evolution of Affinity Radio Kent!

Discovering Internet Radio

2024-12-17T18:07:00.055+00:00

A Simple Guide for Music Lovers of the 60s and 70s

If you grew up with the iconic tunes of the 1960s and 1970s, you’ll know just how magical music can be. It was the soundtrack to our lives, shaping memories and connecting us to moments we’ll never forget. But how do you recapture that feeling today in a world that’s moved beyond vinyl and cassette tapes? Enter internet radio – a modern way to enjoy the classics you love, wherever you are.

In this post, we’ll guide you through how to listen to internet radio, using Affinity Radio, a Kent-based station, as an example. Don’t worry – you don’t need to be a tech whiz to enjoy this!

What is Internet Radio?

Think of internet radio as the next evolution of traditional radio. Instead of turning the dial on your old transistor radio, you now use a device like your smartphone, tablet, or computer to access radio stations streaming online. The best part? You can listen to stations like Affinity Radio, which specialize in music from the 60s and 70s, from the comfort of your home or even on the go.

Why Choose Internet Radio?

Internet radio is perfect for those who:

Want to enjoy uninterrupted music from their favorite decades.

Appreciate stations like Affinity Radio, which bring a personal touch with curated playlists and hosts who share your passion for the music of yesteryear.

Like the convenience of listening wherever there’s an internet connection – no fiddling with aerials or static interference!

Getting Started with Affinity Radio

Affinity Radio is a brilliant example of an internet station that understands the magic of 60s and 70s music. Here’s how you can start listening:

1. Visit the Website:

Simply type Affinity Radio’s website into your internet browser. Once you’re there, you’ll see an easy-to-navigate homepage with a “Listen Live” button.

2. Click “Listen Live”:

Clicking this button will start the music stream right away. It’s as simple as turning on your old radio – but without the need to tune anything!

3. Download a Mobile App (Optional):

If you’d like to listen on your phone or tablet, Affinity Radio offerslinks via apps like TuneIn Radio. Once installed, you can listen anytime, anywhere.

4. Connect to Smart Speakers (Optional):

If you have a device like an Amazon Echo or Google Nest, you can often say, “Play Affinity Radio,” and let the music fill your room.

What to Expect from Affinity Radio

Affinity Radio isn’t just about music – it’s about nostalgia and connection. You’ll hear carefully chosen tracks from the golden decades, along with friendly presenters who truly get why these songs mean so much. There’s often a mix of classics and hidden gems, plus interesting commentary that takes you back to the moments when these hits first graced the airwaves. See the Affinity Radio website for the current broadcasting peogram schedule.

Tips for Enjoying Internet Radio

Use headphones or a speaker: This can enhance the listening experience and make the music sound even richer.

Explore the schedule: Affinity Radio often has themed shows or live presenters. Check the schedule to find your favorites.

Share with friends: If you know others who share your love for 60s and 70s music, introduce them to Affinity Radio. It’s a great way to reconnect over shared memories.

Closing Thoughts

Internet radio like Affinity Radio offers a wonderful way to reconnect with the music of your youth in a simple and accessible way. With just a few clicks, you can enjoy the songs that shaped a generation and discover new favorites along the way.

So, why not give it a try? Turn up the volume, let the music transport you, and enjoy the timeless hits that never go out of style.

For more tips and inspiration, visit Affinity Radio’s blog and join the growing community of listeners keeping the magic of 60s and 70s music alive!

The Rise of Rock Music in the Late 60s: A Reflection from an Older Generation

2024-11-29T15:57:00.000+00:00

Ah, the late 1960s. What a time it was to be young in Britain. It was an era defined by social change, cultural experimentation, and an electric energy that seemed to pulse through the air. For those of us who lived through it, it was impossible not to notice the seismic shift happening in music, with rock becoming more than just a genre—it became the voice of a generation.

In the early part of the decade, British music was dominated by pop acts like Cliff Richard and The Shadows. While their clean-cut image and catchy tunes were enjoyable, they hardly prepared us for what was to come. By the mid-60s, bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones began to redefine popular music. Their influence was immense, but it was the latter part of the decade when rock music truly came into its own, evolving into something raw, experimental, and deeply expressive.

The rise of rock in the late 60s was fueled by a convergence of influences and societal factors. Post-war Britain was beginning to shake off its austerity, and young people—empowered by greater access to education, disposable income, and a sense of rebellion—were searching for something that reflected their ideals. American blues played a crucial role in shaping the sound. Artists like Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, and Chuck Berry inspired a wave of British musicians who blended blues with their own unique styles.

Bands like Led Zeppelin, Cream, and The Who emerged as pioneers of this new rock era. Each group brought something distinct. Cream, with Eric Clapton’s guitar wizardry, blended blues with virtuosity. The Who, with their explosive energy, delivered anthems that captured the angst of the youth. And then there was Led Zeppelin, whose heavy riffs and ethereal lyrics practically defined the blueprint for hard rock and heavy metal.

I remember seeing these bands perform live or hearing their records for the first time. The experience was visceral. You could feel the music—it wasn’t just something you heard. It was bold, loud, and unapologetic. Rock music gave us permission to feel everything deeply, from the rebellious anger of The Who's "My Generation" to the cosmic escapism of Pink Floyd’s "Astronomy Domine."

The late 60s also saw the rise of festivals like the Isle of Wight, which became gatherings for those who shared a love for this new, electrifying music. These events weren’t just concerts; they were cultural milestones. They symbolized a break from the rigid norms of the past and an embrace of freedom and creativity.

Of course, one cannot talk about this era without mentioning Jimi Hendrix. Though he was American, his impact on British rock was monumental. Watching him perform at the Isle of Wight Festival in 1970 (a memory that still gives me chills) was like witnessing an artist paint with sound. He, like so many others of that era, pushed boundaries in ways we couldn’t have imagined.

As I look back, I realize how much rock music of the late 60s reflected the spirit of the time. It was a period of questioning authority, exploring identity, and experimenting with new ideas. The music was a direct expression of that spirit. While the world has changed dramatically since then, the legacy of that era lives on. The records may have been worn thin over the years, but the memories remain vivid.

Rock in the late 60s wasn’t just music—it was a revolution. And for those of us lucky enough to witness it firsthand, it will forever be a defining part of our lives. It lives on, on radio rock show's like those on Affinity Radio and other niche stations today.

Impact of Land Based Pirate Radio Stations

2024-11-27T15:09:00.000+00:00

The Sound of Rebellion: Why Pirate Radio Was Born

While pirate radio stations had initially thrived at sea, particularly with the famous offshore stations like Radio Caroline, government crackdowns such as the Marine Broadcasting Act of 1967 soon forced those broadcasters off the waves. Yet, the appetite for non-mainstream music was only growing stronger. Audiences were hungry for soul, reggae, ska, funk, and new waves of electronic music that were either ignored or only sparingly featured on official radio.

In this cultural gap, land-based pirate stations rose, often run by self-taught engineers and passionate DJs who were willing to risk prosecution to give listeners an alternative. These broadcasters found ingenious ways to set up short-range transmitters across cities, turning garages, attics, and even parked vans into makeshift studios. London, Birmingham, Manchester, and other urban centers became hubs for these unauthorized stations. And with their energy, fearlessness, and intimate knowledge of underground music, they made pirate radio a lifeline for those craving an authentic, unfiltered sound.

Setting the Scene: Life Inside a Pirate Radio Station

Imagine a small, dimly lit room in a high-rise building in London. A cracked window lets in a sliver of neon glow from the street below, and the faint hum of city life fills the background. The walls are lined with egg cartons for soundproofing, and makeshift tables support an array of worn-out vinyl, cassette decks, and an eclectic collection of speakers. Here, DJs, some barely out of their teens, lean over turntables, flipping through records with passion and precision.

They might play a soul track followed by a reggae anthem, mixing seamlessly, talking directly to their listeners, calling out the names of local neighborhoods or events. For the audience, this was more than music—it was a direct conversation. These DJs would often share messages from listeners, shout-outs for birthdays or upcoming gigs, making the experience intensely personal and connected.

DIY Radio Transmitter

The shows ran late into the night, often shrouded in secrecy, as broadcasters worked to avoid the watchful eyes of the authorities. Station locations were frequently changed to evade detection, and broadcasters developed networks of loyal fans and volunteers who would help set up and tear down equipment at a moment’s notice. The sense of urgency, danger, and passion was palpable in every broadcast, adding an edge that simply didn’t exist on mainstream radio.

The Authorities Crack Down

Operating outside the law, land-based pirate radio stations were constantly under threat. British authorities viewed them as a challenge to the regulated broadcasting system and launched regular raids to shut down transmitters and arrest operators. The stations were labeled as a public nuisance, accused of causing interference with official channels, and their activities were criminalized. This led to frequent raids by the Post Office engineers and later the Radio Investigation Service, who would locate transmissions using signal detectors and shut down stations, often confiscating equipment and levying fines on those caught.

But even as the government tried to clamp down on these pirate stations, the spirit of the movement persisted. Some stations would be back on air mere hours after a raid, having relocated to a new secret location with equipment stashed away just for such emergencies. They became adept at eluding authorities, using short, precise broadcasts, and always staying one step ahead. For every station that was shut down, several others would rise, like Radio Invicta, DBC (Dread Broadcasting Corporation), and Kiss FM—all icons of the pirate scene.

The Sounds of Pirate Radio: Creating a Cultural Legacy

The DJs who ran these stations were passionate advocates of the music they loved and felt personally responsible for introducing it to a wider audience. Pirate radio stations played a vital role in promoting not only the music but the culture that came with it. Reggae, dancehall, jungle, hip-hop, and emerging electronic music genres found a home on pirate airwaves, long before they reached commercial radio.

Some DJs became local legends, known for their incredible taste in music and fearless attitude. They played artists and records that weren’t yet known to mainstream audiences, giving a platform to talent that might have otherwise been overlooked. For the communities listening, these broadcasts weren’t just about music; they represented cultural pride, a voice for the disenfranchised, and a rallying point for social unity. In areas with large immigrant populations, stations like DBC resonated deeply, reflecting the sounds and stories of communities that felt marginalized by mainstream British media.

London roof based pirate radio antena

The Influence and Enduring Legacy of Pirate Radio

The impact of these pirate stations was undeniable. By the 1980s, the landscape of British radio was undergoing a seismic shift, influenced by the relentless creativity and popularity of pirate radio. Eventually, some of the most popular pirate stations, such as Kiss FM and Radio Jackie, were granted official licenses, becoming part of the legal broadcasting world. The music industry, too, recognized the power of these underground channels, as artists who gained exposure through pirate stations became part of the mainstream.

These stations gave birth to a generation of DJs and broadcasters who would go on to transform the media industry. Figures like Tim Westwood and Jazzie B, who started on pirate stations, would eventually become fixtures on official channels, bringing with them the raw, unfiltered style they had perfected on pirate radio. Today, many of the genres popularized by these pirate stations remain at the heart of British music, with grime, UK garage, and drum ‘n’ bass tracing their roots directly to pirate radio culture.

Pirate Radio Today: Echoes of a Revolution

While the golden age of land-based pirate radio has faded, its legacy endures. In an era of digital streaming, podcasts, and social media, the renegade spirit of these stations lives on in new forms of independent broadcasting. Yet the original pirate radio stations stand as a testament to the power of passionate voices refusing to be silenced. They weren’t just transmitting music; they were broadcasting culture, identity, and resistance.

The DJs, engineers, and loyal fans who built the pirate radio movement did so in defiance of the restrictions that sought to keep music and voices homogenized. And in doing so, they brought the sounds of the streets to the people, forever transforming the airwaves. The underground studios may have vanished, but the memories of that era remain, reminding us of a time when a simple transmitter, a stack of records, and a sense of daring were all it took to change the cultural landscape of Britain.

The Offshore Radio Short Story

2024-10-27T10:34:00.000+00:00

Introduction

After talking to someone in their midd thirties the other day, I discovered that they were unaware of the impact that Pirate Radio had on the UK's music history and the lives of most of us "oldies". Hopefully this blog may be a useful overview. I'll follow up with one on the land based pirates soon.

In the 1960s, the soundscape of the United Kingdom was undergoing a quiet revolution. Traditional media, tightly controlled by the British government, offered limited exposure to the emerging genres that captured the energy of a generation—rock, pop, rhythm, and blues. This restrictive environment left young audiences yearning for something fresh, rebellious, and relevant. While the BBC’s offerings were mostly constrained to classical and mainstream genres, a cultural hunger for something bolder was brewing, paving the way for one of the most dramatic upheavals in modern music history: the era of offshore pirate radio ships.

The Need for New Sounds

In an era when rock ‘n’ roll was sweeping across the United States, young Britons found themselves with few options to indulge in contemporary music. Strict broadcasting laws and a government monopoly on radio airwaves meant that most British listeners were served a steady diet of BBC’s tightly controlled playlists. The few hours dedicated to pop music were dwarfed by the demand for more modern sounds. This vacuum was keenly felt by British youth, and as demand for music outside the mainstream grew, so did frustration with the lack of diverse music on the airwaves.

Enter the Pirate Radio Ships

Radio Caroline - Mi Amigo

The solution to this drought of modern music came not from traditional sources but from the open sea. A group of enterprising and rebellious broadcasters found a legal loophole in maritime law that would change the British music scene forever.

By anchoring just outside UK territorial waters, they could evade the restrictions of British broadcasting regulations. These ships, equipped with powerful transmitters, transformed into floating radio stations that beamed music to millions across the UK.

For the first time, listeners could tune into continuous, contemporary music. Radio Caroline, launched in 1964, became one of the earliest and most influential offshore stations, ushering in a new chapter in British radio.

Other ships quickly joined the ranks, including Radio London, which broadcast from the MV Galaxy, and Radio City, situated on the Shivering Sands Army Fort. These ships, often old fishing trawlers or military vessels, were retrofitted to accommodate broadcast equipment, sleeping quarters, and the essentials for life on the water. The ships braved the elements—stormy seas, harsh winters, and unpredictable weather—to keep their broadcasts running, knowing that their music reached avid fans who would tune in at all hours.

The Experience Onboard

Life aboard a pirate radio ship was often as exhilarating as it was challenging. The ships were out at sea, just beyond territorial limits, and were constantly rocked by the waves. DJs and crew members, living and working in close quarters, developed a sense of camaraderie and adventure that became legendary.

Radio Caroline - Tony Blackburn

On deck, the equipment required constant maintenance due to the harsh marine environment. The salty air and humidity often took their toll on transmitters and broadcast equipment. However, the crew remained dedicated to their mission, often broadcasting around the clock with limited resources. DJs would spend days, sometimes weeks, isolated at sea, armed with only the company of their fellow crew members and their listeners' passionate support. Their shows were unscripted and spontaneous, with a rawness that quickly won the affection of their audience, becoming a soundtrack for a generation eager to redefine British culture.

The Battle with Authorities

Despite their popularity, these pirate radio stations existed in a legally gray area. British authorities viewed them as an illicit threat to the regulated broadcasting system, and efforts were soon underway to bring the ships under control. In 1967, Parliament passed the Marine, &c., Broadcasting (Offences) Act, criminalizing the provision of supplies, advertising, and even DJs for these pirate stations. The act effectively cut off their revenue streams, forcing many offshore stations to cease broadcasting or find alternative means to continue.

Radio Caroline, however, was undeterred. Against all odds, the station continued to operate, moving from ship to ship over the years, cementing its place as a symbol of defiance and musical freedom.

Legacy of the Pirate Radio Ships

Pirate Radio DJ's

While the Marine Broadcasting Act curtailed the heyday of pirate radio, the impact of these ships on British culture and the broadcasting landscape was lasting. The popularity of the pirate stations forced the BBC to re-evaluate its programming, leading to the creation of BBC Radio 1, a station dedicated to pop music and the young audience. The rebellious spirit of pirate radio eventually found a home on legitimate airwaves, but the memory of those who pioneered it from the open sea remains an indelible part of music history.

The story of the pirate radio ships is a tale of defiance, passion, and ingenuity. These ships, bobbing in international waters with music pouring from their decks, represent an audacious response to restrictive media—a turning point that shaped the future of radio and music in the UK. In the annals of music history, they remain celebrated as vessels of freedom, floating on the tides of change and inspiring generations to seek new voices in even the most unlikely places.

2024-07-26T10:38:00.000+01:00

The Decline of Adult-Oriented Radio and the Rise of Internet Alternatives

In the dynamic landscape of broadcasting, radio has long been a staple medium for entertainment, information, and music discovery. However, recent trends indicate a noticeable shift in the programming focus of major radio stations, particularly giants like the BBC. The shift has seen a marked increase in content geared towards younger audiences, leaving a void for mature listeners who seek more adult-oriented programming. This gap, however, has paved the way for innovative solutions in the form of internet radio, with stations like Affinity Radio stepping up to fill the breach.

The Evolution of Radio Programming

Traditional radio has evolved significantly. The BBC and other prominent broadcasters have gradually tailored their programming to appeal to a younger demographic. While this approach has been successful in attracting a new generation of radio fans, it has inadvertently alienated an older audience that once relied on these stations for their daily dose of music, talk shows, and cultural content.

The Emergence of Internet Radio

As mainstream radio pivots towards youth-oriented content, internet radio has emerged as a formidable alternative for adult listeners. The advent of the internet has democratized broadcasting, enabling a diverse range of stations to flourish without the constraints of traditional frequency limitations and geographical boundaries. Internet radio offers a plethora of options catering to varied tastes and interests, ensuring that there is something for everyone.

Affinity Radio: A Haven for Adult Listeners

One exemplary internet radio station that has effectively addressed the needs of mature audiences is Affinity Radio. This station has carved out a niche by providing a rich tapestry of music specifically designed for adult listeners. Affinity Radio’s eclectic mix includes classic hits, smooth jazz, adult contemporary,
relevant to a more mature demographic.

Unlike traditional broadcasters, Affinity Radio is not confined by the pressures of mainstream appeal. This freedom allows the station to curate content that is both diverse and sophisticated, resonating with listeners who feel underserved by the current offerings of major radio stations.

The Benefits of Internet Radio for Adult Listeners

Diverse Programming: Internet radio stations like Affinity Radio offer a broad spectrum of content that caters to various tastes and interests. From golden oldies to contemporary adult hits, there is a wide array of music genres to explore.
On-Demand Access: Many internet radio platforms provide on-demand services, allowing listeners to enjoy their favorite shows and music at their convenience, a feature that is particularly appealing to busy adults.
Global Reach: Internet radio transcends geographical barriers, giving listeners access to stations from around the world. This global reach enhances the diversity of content available and exposes listeners to a variety of cultures and perspectives.
Community Engagement: Stations like Affinity Radio foster a sense of community among their listeners. Through interactive shows and online forums, listeners can connect with like-minded individuals and share their passion for music and culture.

Conclusion

The shift in focus by traditional radio broadcasters towards younger audiences has indeed created a void for mature listeners. However, this void has been effectively filled by the burgeoning landscape of internet radio. Stations like Affinity Radio offer a sanctuary for adult listeners, providing them with tailored content that traditional broadcasters no longer emphasize. As the popularity of internet radio continues to rise, mature audiences now have more options than ever to find programming that resonates with their tastes and interests.

For those seeking a refreshing alternative to mainstream radio, Affinity Radio offers a compelling selection of music and talk shows that cater specifically to adult listeners. Discover what’s on offer and tune in to experience the difference at Affinity Radio.

Launching Your Own Internet Radio Station on a Budget: A Comprehensive Guide

2023-08-26T13:04:00.000+01:00

INTRODUCTION

In today's digital age, starting an internet radio station has become more accessible than ever before. With minimal equipment, a passion for music or talk shows, and a tight budget, you can create a platform that broadcasts your unique content to a global audience. In this post, we'll explore the steps to successfully launch an internet radio station for minimal cost.

Define Your Vision:
Before diving into the technical aspects, it's important to define your station's vision and target audience. Decide on the genre, format, and style of your programming. Are you aiming for a music-focused station or talk shows? Will you cover specific topics or cater to a particular demographic? Identifying these aspects will help you create content that resonates with your target audience.

Research Streaming Platforms:

There are various streaming platforms available to host your internet radio station. Research and compare different options to find the one that aligns with your budget and requirements. Look for platforms that offer a free or affordable tier for broadcasting, provide reliable server hosting, and support features like scheduling, listener statistics, and monetization.Acquire

Essential Equipment:

Starting an internet radio station on a budget doesn't require expensive gear. Here's a list of the essential equipment you'll need:

Computer:

A reliable computer with decent processing power and internet connectivity will be the backbone of your broadcasting setup.

Microphone:

Invest in a quality microphone that suits your budget. USB microphones offer simplicity and decent sound quality but ensure it’s compatible with your PC or separate mixer or sound card.
Headphones: Get a comfortable pair of closed-back headphones to monitor your audio during live broadcasts or editing.

Audio Editing Software:

Choose free or affordable audio editing software like Audacity or GarageBand to pre-record and edit your content.

Streaming Your Station:
Select a Reliable Hosting Provider that is essential for smooth broadcasting and a seamless listener experience. Look for providers that offer affordable plans with adequate bandwidth and storage capacity. Some popular options include Live365, Radio.co, and Spreaker.

Streaming Software:

To broadcast your shows, you'll need streaming software. Many cost-effective or even free software options are available, such as:

Open Broadcaster Software (OBS): A free, open-source option that supports both audio and video streaming.

RadioDJ: A free, feature-rich software specifically designed for internet radio broadcasting.

BUTT (Broadcast Using This Tool): A straightforward, open-source tool for streaming audio.

Copyright and Licensing:

Ensure that you comply with copyright laws and licensing regulations. Playing copyrighted music without proper authorisation can lead to legal issues. Research royalty-free music options, creative commons licenses, or consider working with independent artists who provide permission to use their music. Platforms like SoundCloud and Bandcamp offer a wide range of music from emerging artists.

Create Engaging Content:

Develop a content strategy that captivates your target audience. Plan your shows, playlists, or talk segments in advance to maintain a consistent schedule. Consider inviting guests, conducting interviews, or hosting live sessions to keep your content fresh and engaging. Interact with your audience through social media platforms, take requests, and encourage listener participation to build a loyal community.

Promote Your Station:

To attract listeners, you need to actively promote your internet radio station.

Utilise social media platforms, create a website or blog, and engage with relevant online communities. Collaborate with other content creators, explore cross-promotion opportunities, and contact local media outlets for potential interviews or features. Don't underestimate the power of word-of-mouth advertising within your target audience.

Monetization Opportunities:

While starting on a budget, it's essential to consider potential monetization avenues for your internet radio station. Explore sponsorship opportunities with local businesses or niche companies interested in your target audience. Affiliate marketing, listener donations, and merchandise sales are also viable options for generating revenue. As your audience grows, you can explore advertising partnerships or premium subscriptions for exclusive content.

Conclusion:

Starting an internet radio station on a budget is an exciting endeavour that allows you to share your passion for music or talk shows with a global audience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can establish a successful station without breaking the bank. Remember, consistency, engaging content, and effective promotion are key to building a loyal listener base.

Submitting Your Music to Radio Stations

2022-08-11T14:22:00.000+01:00

How To get Airplay For Your Music

Getting your tracks played on Affinity Radio, in fact any radio station will play a role in promoting you and your music. It’s vital to approach radio stations in the right way so you increase the possibility of having your work played. Airplay can be difficult to secure, but if you follow the details in this Blog it may help you get there.

Preparation

You need to make your presentation of material and music files in a professional manner. Some stations require submissions to be in a particular format. Refer to the individual station websites to see if this is required. Generally, digital and emailable material is the preferred manner these days.
Compile a press pack which includes your profile (CV) and either links to your tracks you are submitting (Bandcamp, your website, etc) or send mp3/Wma files. Suggestion: make sure the title of these files are named properly to identify, usually "Artist Name" - "Title" this makes it easier for the presenters to identify your tracks and may put you above others who are just lazy and call them (example) "trk01 202218", get my drift!
Do your homework on the station you hope will play your music, as an example you would send a rock track to Affinity radio, referencing one of our rock shows. Even better, add the name(s) of the specific presenters (more brownie points here).
Make sure not to blanket all stations you will possibly end up in the trash bin.

Self Promotion

Make sure you have an online presence, website, FaceBook page, Twitter..etc we know it's a pain but anything that gives you a plug is worth having
Keep the above updated as this again helps search engines find you, and maybe your prospective DJ, Radio Producer or Program Controller?
YouTube? Always a good way to show what you can do.
Live gigs again, share on social media, maybe even invite the station personel to a gig!

Target The Right Stations

Whilst we all would love our music played on national radio, this can be difficult. Dont expect instant results. Be patient and don't pester stations as again you will
end up in the dreaded trash can. Just remember you are one of hundreds or maybe thousands of artists all trying this.

Start off with your local radio stations as these will not be swamped by music submissions
Contact genre specific radio stations that fits your style
Take the time to listen to the presenters, note their names, pick a few you think your music will appeal to and contact them if you can.

Patience and Perseverence

Getting your music played on the radio isn’t easy. Make sure you’re targeting stations that are suitable for your music and the stage you are at in your music career.

Be realistic, persistent and most of all, make (and present) music that will grab the attention of DJ's and Program Managers.

I wish you the best of luck on your journey to sucess.

Tips for Radio Presenter Shows Submission to Radio Stations

2021-08-08T11:33:00.004+01:00

INTRODUCTION

Here are our top tips to presenters to consider when submitting shows to internet radio stations.

FILE SIZE - Make sure the file size is set to the station kilobits per second output, we transmit at 128kbps which is the most common format. We get shows submitted in 320Kbps which are larger, take much longer to download and are sometimes too large for our Cloud Server. We then have to reformat to 128Kbps anyway. It's a pain for the station as well so watch out. Try out the free
Media Human Audio Converter to keep things sweet.
VOLUME LEVELS - Quite often, even the most proficient broadcasters appear to slip up with their levels. Music and voice being very inconsistent. This shows up more when listening at reduced volumes. Our best tip is to set the microphone slightly above the music levels. Make sure your music is all of similar volume, we suggest using a free software tool called MP3Gain to set all your music to the same level.
FILE NAMING - Make sure your file naming is also consistent as some cloud systems rely on this to set your shows up correctly. A good guide can be found here: Shier Rzow website

Hope this little article has helped, let us know if you have any comments or other tips for presenters too. Thanks to all who have contributed.

2021-02-23T08:34:00.002+00:00

COVID -19 BOOSTS INTERNET RADIO LISTENERS

Its been a while since we last spoke. What a change to our world!

"Normal" no longer exists. Many have been impacted by illness or have lost loved ones to the virus.

Throughout this, we have continued to broadcast and made the decision to be COVID FREE. Generally, we do not dwell on news items that others cover in a sometimes morbid and repetitive way. We instead have focused on positive, companionship, and togetherness. This has also meant that our listener base has increased since March 2020 by some 40%, amazing.

We were very excited about launching a new program called "Who Cares" in March 2020, a one-hour show which was broadcast weekdays 11-Noon and featured requests aimed at care home residents and their families in the Kent area. The aim was to allow Care Homes to turn on Affinity Radio so the residents can listen to the music and their loved ones can send in requests. This went some way in taking some of the pressure away from overworked staff who were dealing with telephone calls from families. This show has now moved on to a more general playlist called "GoldenClassics".

We also introduced a new "Music & General Knowledge" pub quiz night in May 2020 on Sunday evenings 8 pm which provides a totally interactive experience for all listeners and is still going strong. All our presenters have been excellent in providing their programs.

Lastly thanks to all our listeners for your company and we hope that you will stay with us for years to come.

Best Wishes

Dave & Ray

Affinity Radio

Listen Here:

https://www.affinityradio.net/

https://stream.radio.co/s038d07e75/listen

https://tunein.com/radio/Affinity-Radio-s137736/

Smart speakers and TV's “play affinity radio on tune in dot com”

Catchup: https://www.mixcloud.com/affinityradio_net/

Dear Listener

2019-05-20T10:17:00.003+01:00

A MESSAGE TO THE LISTENER

This is a message to all listeners of internet radio stations (not just ours).

Over the past few years, us internet radio broadcasters have been under
pressure from a whole onslaught of other music providing sources.

We like our other broadcasters have been trying our hardest to make out output compete and fill in a gap in this market. Stations come and go more rapidly than before as some folks think it is easy to grab your attention. This is definitely not the case.

COMMUNICATE

We have some die hard listeners who also from time to time communicate with us for which we are grateful. We also have those who also listen regularly but never communicate with us. This we know and accept, we change shows around and seek new program content on a regular basis but have little feedback from you the LISTENER. All stations will appreciate your feedback and it may be the difference between them improving or giving up. You the LISTENER have an ideal opportunity to have an impact, don't waste it.

GET IN TOUCH

Thanks for taking the time to read this and I ask you to consider maybe taking a few minutes to visit your favorite internet radio's website and say hello. Without you we would not be doing this, with your help and feedback we can prevail against all the odds stacked against us by the big boys (Itunes, Spotify, Deezer etc.)

Dave Kelly

Affinity Radio

Tips for Radio Show production

2019-04-11T12:15:00.001+01:00

RECORDING YOUR CONTENT

Here are a few tips on recording

Whatever your show's content make sure you always check your LEVELS!. You would be surprised the number of programmes we sometimes get at Affinity where music to voice levels are drastically different. Always check these. One quick way is to use waveform view on your recording software. The example below is from Audacity. You will be able to see at a glance if levels differ too much.
Find out what is the best BIT RATE to record your shows. Bear in mind that some stations have upload limits for their content. Always record to the highest bitrate acceptable to your end user /station. Example: Station broadcasts at 128 kbps, anything above this level will not increase sound quality but will increase upload time for the station as higher bit rate = increased file size. We had an example once of a show being submitted that was 365 kbps and size of 6.5 MB, we had a maximum upload file size of 2.0 MB to our old Cloud Server....we had to down scale this to fit...not good for a station. Example below shows the set up for bit rate for broadcast software. Generally stations normally broadcast between 96 - 192 Kbps Bit rate.
What file type or CODEC should you record in?. This can be complicated but from our experience the good old MP3 format works for most radio stations. Find out more here CODEC's

NAMING YOUR SHOW FILE

Here at Affinity, we generally have around 30 shows submitted for broadcast per week. This is very time consuming so anything the show provider can do to assist us is a bonus. Here are a few tips to consider.

Save your shows file name in the following format: Presenters Name - Show Name - Date or other detail. This ensures that (most) broadcast software will show the correct details in the right order on the audio player that your listeners will see. The example to the right shows the correct formatted file as uploaded to our server. This shows the detail fills out the correct fields on our broadcast software. This saves time for us as we don't have to update these details so that they display correctly on our player and on any other players broadcasting the show via our TuneIn, or other on line directories. The picture below shows how the above data looks on our player. All this is (or can be) done at the recording stage.
File METADATA may also help to show your show is professionally produced and you are helping the poor overworked station manager. You can edit the metadata using Windows 10 file explorer by doing the following:
1. Open File Explorer (Windows key + E).
2. Browse the location of the songs or audio file you want to edit.
3. Right-click a song or audio file, and select Properties.
4. Click the Details tab.

We hope this has helped you to present the data and sound quality at the right level and to demonstrate to the station who may be wanting to broadcast your show that you are a serious broadcasting professional. We will cover more topics on this subject soon.

What's In A Name?

2019-01-26T12:58:00.000+00:00

Naming your internet radio station

So you have been following some of our other blogs on how to set up an internet radio station?

Choose carefully

Hopefully you have. One of the crucial things you need to consider is your station name. Make sure it fits your music genre you intend to play.

Your station name will be used on websites, social media, business cards, station promos etc so once you have done all the hard work and spent time and money, you don't want to find out that your new Internet radio station has the same name as another one, particularly if its in the same country too.

A true tale of woe!

All Affinity Radio blogs try to make sure you don't fall foul of a number of things, exploitation, paying too much and generally sharing our experiences with others. This blog is no different.

We did our homework checking out our chosen name (Affinity Radio) using goggle, yahoo, MSN etc as a name check. Results were good so off we went.

After six months after starting 24/7 broadcasting we started getting a few emails for requests to presenters who were not on our station! Lucky for us these requests were by email so we were able to get back to the sender to find out what was happening. We found out that another FM and Internet station had stared up in Cambridge and had changed their name to ours! The requests were from a few confused listeners, listening to us on the Internet and the other "Affinity Radio" one on FM.

This also caused problems when registering the station with on line Internet radio directories and also iTunes, Microsoft, Tune In etc.

The other station decided to go for a DAB license and also decided to try and register our name as their trade mark legally! This meant we had to legally object and produce evidence of our counter claim.

We were successful and a year after the other radio station closed down.

Legacy issues

As with things Internet, there are still some issues still haunting us on the above issue, so think carefully and even if YOU do the legwork, keep vigilant as someone else won't.

How To Start Your Own Internet Radio Station For Minimum Cost

2019-01-11T13:07:00.000+00:00

Broadcast on the cheap

Hi again from Affinity Radio - Kent's Favorite Internet Radio Station.

We have been broadcasting now for nearly 9 years. We started using very basic equipment and we often see blogs on how to start up in internet broadcasting but they all seem to be selling something more than required. and at massive cost.

Affinity Radio Studio 2010

Here are a few tips on how to begin broadcasting on a small budget.

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO

Identify your music genre
Create a name for your station - check no one else has it already
Choose how you want to play your music - we started with WINAMP which is FREE and has lots of great addons. You can compile playlists, adjust fade in and out of tracks, connect a microphone and lots more. There is also a large amount of help on the internet.
Choose how you want to "broadcast" your station? We started using our PC as a server with free software download. We first tested this and managed 7 listener connections max! Ideally you can consider free (with restrictions) servers or a whole range of paid for options for as little as £5 per month to get more listeners. We currently use a Cloud based broadcast management system for £30 per month. We also broadcast 24/7 as this gets more listeners.
You need to tell the world you are there! Once you get your music broadcasting, register your station with as many on line internet directories as possible.
WEBSITE? - get a free website by registering with Google Business to push your station. Make sure you include a player so that the listener can "tune in".
SOCIAL MEDIA? - Sometimes this requires too much work for little return, give it a go, Start TWITTER and FACEBOOK pages but keep them updated.

So if you already have a PC/Laptop and have downloaded WINAMP and found a FREE server, all you need then is a microphone and microphone stand with compatible input for your PC/Laptop (USB or other). General costs are as follows:

Microphone = £20 - £150

Microphone Stand = £8 - £25

Mixer (when using extra microphones = £19 - £150

Music £££££££££

One other thing.....

STAYING LEGAL

Remember to pay the licence fees to stay legal. Links to UK licensing bodies are as follows:

http://www.ppluk.com/

https://www.prsformusic.com/

Affinity Radio Studio 2017

FINALLY

Check out our other blogs for more information on making an internet radio station.

RESOURCES ON THE NET

Start your own internet radio station for free

https://www.affinityradio.net/

http://www.rode.com/microphones/podcaster

http://www.musictribe.com/search/behringer?text=microphones

The Behringer MDX4600

Free Streaming

SAM Broadcaster Cloud

We do not receive any endorsement payment for including the above links.

Another year - 8 years in internet broadcasting

2018-08-04T11:24:00.000+01:00

Happy Birthday To Us

Well would you believe it, another year and we are still here doing our thing. We started the station way back in August 2010 using a PC as the broadcast server, boy have things moved on in the last 8 years. Much more competition now from other styles of music services has made it a hard slog to keep listeners.

We have noticed an increase in listener traffic again this year as we think listeners like the "surprise" of presented music, especially as an alternative to the established "terrestrial" stations who are financially driven to a limited and very repetitive playlist.

We think we provide a wide and varied selection of programmes that should suit listeners within the 35- to what ever age range. Listeners are surprised by some of the little heard tracks we and our presenters play . We are continuing this formula and adjusting the content to still engage with some of our "younger" listeners too.

If you would like to find out more about us and maybe join us for the next 8 years, then drop by and see us at Affinity Radio or maybe listen to us direct at Affinity pop up radio player

What Is The Best Microphone for Internet Radio

2017-11-12T13:31:00.003+00:00

Questions?

We get asked by folks starting out in internet radio about what is the best microphone to use on an internet radio station.

To be honest, our answer is get the best you can afford! That simple.

Top of the range

There are a number of exceptional microphones available including the iconic Electrovoice RE20 (£420) and the Neumann BCM 705 (£497) which is a lot of cash!.

The real world

What do we use on Affinity Radio you may ask. Well our main studio microphone in both of our studios is a Behringer B-1 Single Diaphragm Condenser Microphone which is currently retailing at a very reasonable £80.

We also use as guest / outside broadcast microphones a brace of Behringer XM1800S Ultravoice dynamic microphones now at a bargain price of £35 for a set of 3. We also use a Shure SM58 (£95) and to be honest you would be hard pressed to tell the difference between the Shure and the XM1899S.

Ultimately the choice is yours and the size of your budget. Always make sure you use a shock mount and pop guard to as this stops a lot of the noise transmitted from your broadcast desk and your slobbering presenter.

Feedback please.

Well I hope this has been of use, please let me know via studio@affinityradio.net.

Also drop by our website at http://www.affinityradio.net and our Face book and Twitter accounts and give us a Like if you are feeling generous.

Thanks,

Dave Kelly
Presenter and Technical Manager
Affinity Radio

Listener Feedback

2017-04-17T13:21:00.000+01:00

Don't Hold Your Breath

So you have just started your very own internet radio station and the listeners are (maybe) flooding in. You have a chat bar on the station web page, you also give out your contact email address during programs and jingles.

Silence?.....well sometimes it happens. Not all listeners want to get involved in your station, they may love the music you play but that's as far as it goes with most. From my last 7 years experience it can be depressing, but don't take my word for it.

Niche is good

One way to attract feedback is through specialist (niche) programs that have a distinct following. Listeners seam to be more passionate about their particular type of music, a good example is Northern Soul.

Social Media

Facebook

Got a page? get lots of followers, tell them about your shows, station details and how to get in touch. Keep the content fresh and updated. look for people with interests that align with your station or show content, invite them to your page. Also make a "contact us" button to your page to make it easy for people to get in touch. In reality, it is a must, but can be time consuming for little or no increase in actual listeners. Here is a link to our station Affinity Radio Facebook Page

Twitter

Using a similar strategy as Facebook, also set up automated twitter feeds of what track you are playing on your station. Get those followers and you will get lot's of likes, again time consuming and generally from an internet radio station viewpoint, a necessity but again 4,000 plus followers does not equate to listeners! Check out our Affinity twitter page

Blogging

So did you find Blog this interesting? Are you going to comment? Has anybody commented? ...............what do you think?

YouTube

Now this one is something I have dabbled in but must admit to not having much success in generating much interest. It is an area that I will be investigating in more detail soon so will let you know how I get on soon. Here is one video we produced on the missing "radio" button on iTunes

Website

You need one, this is your shop front and communication hub. It's also a guide to how many interested people are out there by looking at "hits" on your site. Today it's quite easy to set up a website and can be free, check out Wix for a good example. We use a paid for software option from Serif. Check out our website here

Internet Presence

And finally.... all the above will build your stations presence on the internet. Search for your station name to see how many times it pops up in your favourite search engine. All of the discussed topics will increase your chances of being found on the web. Your website enables people to contact you, but beware, most contacts will be spammers, Russian Brides, etc... so be warned.

References

Well I hope this little rant (blog) has helped some of you.

Here are a few links to other resources you may find useful.
Top-10-internet-marketing-strategies
how-to-gain-more-listeners-for-your-internet-radio-station
radio.co - blog
5-directories you should list your station with

Cheers for now
Dave
Affinity Radio

Things to consider if producing an internet radio show

2017-04-13T18:45:00.000+01:00

How we do it

Running an internet radio station is great fun but also for small operators like us at Affinity Radio it can be very time consuming. Live shows from the studio are bounced up to our Cloud server then out to the world, this enables the Cloud to fill in any gaps if the LIVE broadcast drops out, so you should never hear dead air. Prerecorded shows are usually sent to us via Drop box, we-transfer or other file sharing system. We then have to remove all dates, editions etc so that the file title is set to a predefined format (defined by us). We then drop these (mp3) files into our presenters folders then the clever stuff happens.

Automatically add meta data

Data from each show gets transmitted with the music and is displayed on our on line player so we need to make this sensible for the listener, this is often not done by show presenters.

We used to do this manually which as you can imagine took ages.

We use SAM Broadcaster Pro as our broadcasting software since 2010. We have found that this software can also re write the files with the appropriate data in seconds so that the listener will be able to see the artist name, the show title, presenters picture or Affinity Tile. There is additionally space for website links and much more.

Upload to the Affinity Cloud

Once the metadata is correct we upload the completed mp3 to the Cloud server. The server analyses the file and normalizes the volume so that it is in keeping with the other output on the system so sound levels are at a constant output volume. This is great however if the presenters voice level is low, the system can't compensate for this.

Scheduling

Each show has its own slot (or slots) on the server so times are set automatically when the show is uploaded.

Things To Consider

So, you have made your show, recorded it onto mp3 and sent it out, fantastic. Making the program for free is amazing, stations like ours are self funding so we can't pay as it costs us a small fortune to keep on the air. Here are a few things to consider when doing your shows.

keep file naming consistent
make sure the microphone level brings the voice volume slightly above the maximum music level
remember to keep the file size to the station maximum output "quality", in our case 128 kbps as it keeps files small and some cloud systems have upload "caps" that prohibit files above certain levels so, again the poor old station manager has to convert these down to an acceptable size.

Contact Us

If you found the information useful, would like to get a show on air, or would like to know more, please email me at studio@affinityradio.net and put "Blog" in the title and I'll get back to you.

Cheers

Dave Kelly

Presenter and Technical Manager

Affinity Radio

Affinity Radio Website

Affinity Facebook Page

Affinity Twitter Feed

Listen to affinity here:

Affinity via Tunein

Affinity via Affinity Player

2016-08-04T19:35:00.000+01:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AFFINITY

Well it's been an age since we last talked. I was just thinking it was time to get writing again,

What's been happening!

Lots of things have changed Affinity Radio in the past year. We have seen a few presenters leave, come back and leave again....don't ask!!! We have a number of new laddies and gents on board now bringing the broadcasting crew up to 27 today. We have moved servers to Radio.co in March 2016, with the old server finally turning off in June.

Its that time again

So its fast approaching 14 August 2016 when it will be our 6th year of broadcasting 24/7

A BIG thank you to all!

I'd like to thank our listeners for sticking with us and also a BIG thank you to all our presenters, sponsors and behind the scenes folks who help to make it happen.

Thanks and here is to the next 6 years.

Best regards
Dave Kelly
Presenter and co-founder of Affinity

Staring an internet radio station?

2015-07-23T08:39:00.000+01:00

It's been a while, but we have been busy at Affinity radio.

Keeping listeners happy is a full time occupation.

We have had a number of messages and emails asking what equipment we use and how to set up an internet radio station.

The best advice is to scour the internet, including YouTube for ideas, that's what we did way back in August 2010.

We have also included a few links that you may find useful

http://www.howtostartyourowninternetradiostation.com/

https://www.wavestreaming.com/solutions/how-to-start-an-internet-radio-station

http://spacialaudio.com/uploads/spacialaudio/documentation/Internet_Radio_Planning_Guide_1-21-2010.pdf

http://radio.about.com/od/createinternetradio/

Here is Studio 1

Studio basics:

1 PC/Mac/Laptop

2 Streaming software (free or purchased) we started with Winamp

3 Microphone (best you can afford)

4 Mixer or Audio interface (laptop) for basic mixing of external inputs (CD player, decks, microphones etc)

5 Good internet connection

6 Obvious - Music

7 Local licences (PPL & PRS in UK)

8 Get a server provider to stream your output through

9 Register your station stream on internet radio directories

10 Get that show on the road

11 Register on iTunes, TuneIn,

12 tell the world you exist via social media

Best of luck to you.

If you need any advice drop us an email to affinityradio.net@gmail.com and we will be glad to help.

Cheers

Affinity Radio

facebook.com/AffinityRadioMaidstone

@AffinityDJ

Listen via website: http://www.affinityradio.net/tune_in.html

Listen via TuneIn: http://tunein.com/radio/Affinity-Radio-s137736/

No "Radio" button on latest iTunes???

2014-03-03T13:08:00.000+00:00

So you've downloaded the latest iTunes update to your PC. I'm sure there are lots of improvements, but wait a minute! Where has the "Radio" button gone?.

Someone in their wisdom has changed the name of the RADIO button to INTERNET and also has not made it a preset default setting either. So how can I listen again to my favourite internet radio station through iTunes?

All is not lost, check out the video below to get it back.

I've lost my iTunes Internet Radio Button

If you don't like to open links to You Tube, here are written instructions.

Open iTunes
Click on the box at Top Left of the iTunes screen
Select "Preferences" from the menu
in "General Preferences"
Select "Internet Radio" tick box
Click OK
You now have a button called "Internet", this is the old "Radio" button
Click on this and you'll find all the usual internet radio stations

You can find Affinity Radio under "Golden Oldies" check us out, we play the best from the 60s, 70s and 80s and a little bit more too.

Ken Lockerbie Retires from Broadcasting

2013-05-14T16:53:00.001+01:00

Hello Listener,
We have to tell you that after a long illness Ken has informed us that he can no longer broadcast. I'm sure our regular listeners have wondered what has become of Ken. We will leave that explanation for Ken to explain later. Ken has a great following and lists a large expat community of avid listeners to his regular Monday night slot.

Ade has been holding the fort for Ken and now launches a new show from next Monday called "Golden Decades", we wish him every success and hope that Kens fans will support this new show.

Ken will be doing some work behind the scene of which we will tell more soon so watch this space.

Visit the link to Kens profile at:

http://www.affinityradio.net/djprofile.html

Best regards
Dave

2013-02-09T14:27:00.000+00:00

Affinity Radio Update - Server Migration February 2013

Visit www.affinityradio.net for the latest news and link updates

We will be migrating servers this month to enable a better output to our listeners for the future.

Our websites Tune In page has all the information you need to get listening as soon as possible. Our “Listen Now” button (the Green one) opens a Windows Media player for Windows based PC’s. The Green button is available on every page of the site.

Listen on all Internet Radios, we are just a click away. We are registered with all Major Radio Manufacturers. We are also on iTunes Radio, go to our website for details.

Some of our listeners have reduced bandwidth. Poor ADSL or download limits.

We can provide a lower stream to suit your situation.

The links opposite will open up access to our 64 Kbps stream which will allow a convenient and cost saving alternative, it also enables a more consistent program when using a mobile phone so select our 64 Kbps stream from the Tune In app as well.

NOTE Our existing 32 Kbps service will terminate at the end of February 2013

We are also available from the worlds major Internet Radio Directories ( Links Page) so there are unlimited options available.

Should you be experiencing any difficulties in connecting to us, use our “Contact Us Page” and send us a brief description on your problem and we will get back to you.

Official opening of the new Studio 1

2012-11-30T20:17:00.002+00:00

Well, finally after weeks of work we will officially be opening the new Studio 1 in Aylesford on Saturday 8th December. There will be a few bottles of bubbly popped and a few Lucky listeners have been in invited. There are a few invites left so log on to www.affinityradio.net and hit the RED button type GRAND OPENING to be in with a chance to get an invite, good luck.