The Era of Early Radio and Its First Music Broadcasts

The history of radio broadcasting is rich and fascinating, with each milestone marking significant developments in technology and culture. Among the most intriguing questions is, What was the first song ever played on the radio? Although we may never know for certain, this article delves into the early days of commercial radio, the stations that pioneered the medium, and the songs that might have been broadcast.

The Genesis of Radio Broadcasting

Radio broadcasting began to take shape in the early 20th century, with the first experimental and amateur stations popping up well before the introduction of commercial radio. In 1906, the first live broadcast of a musical performance was transmitted over('Guglielmo Marconi's') wireless telegraphy system. However, this was not a radio station in the modern sense, but rather a demonstration of its capabilities. The actual first song played on the radio as we understand it today is a matter of historical speculation.

The Earliest Stations

Even then, the technology to record and preserve the broadcasts was not yet developed. Electrical transcriptions did not come into use until the late 1920s, and high-quality audiotape was perfected in the mid-1940s. Therefore, we rely on historical records and contemporary accounts to piece together the first music broadcast.

Among the first stations to go on the air with commercial intentions were several near the end of 1920. These pioneering stations were: 8MK (later WWJ) in Detroit, 1XE (later WGI) in Medford, Massachusetts, and 8ZZ (better known as KDKA) in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Each of these stations brought in live studio orchestras and played phonograph records, bartering for on-air mentions in exchange for broadcast time. However, history has not recorded the specific records they played in 1920.

Potential Songs

It is reasonable to assume that the early broadcasters chose popular and familiar songs. A likely candidate for early broadcast in 1920 might have been Swanee by Al Jolson or Whispering by Paul Whiteman and his Orchestra. Other popular hits of the era could have been selected as well.

Amateur Stations and Early Innovators

Several amateur radio stations also played phonograph records prior to 1920. One of the earliest to do this systematically was the Herrold College of Wireless in San José, California. Founded by Charles Doc Herrold, one of the pioneers in early broadcasting, the station featured a weekly program hosted by his wife, Sybil. She took requests and dedications from listeners, with the first broadcasts dating as far back as 1913-1914. Unfortunately, history does not provide the specific recordings played during these early broadcasts. However, it is reasonable to assume that the students at the college would have requested and heard the hit songs of the time.

The First Commercial Station

The first real radio station to regularly broadcast, considered to be KDKA in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, began operation on November 2, 1920. The first words spoken by a weatherman during a broadcast were infamous: Disco Sucks. While not a popular song, this moment marked the beginning of commercial radio broadcasting in the United States.

These early broadcasts laid the foundation for the growth and evolution of radio, leading to the diverse and vibrant radio landscape we enjoy today. The songs that were played during these early days were crucial in establishing the genre and setting the tone for future musical broadcasts.

By understanding the history of early radio broadcasts, we can appreciate the journey that brought us to the digital era of music streaming and podcasting. The stories of these pioneers and the songs they played continue to inspire and amaze radio enthusiasts worldwide.