Want to learn more about the Jamaican culture while visiting, as well as keep up to date with current events happening all over the island? It’s all pretty easy if you listen to the radio.
That’s right; you can get your fix of daily life on ‘the Rock’ by tuning into any of the nation’s radio stations, of which there are currently over 40. Okay, so that might sound like a lot to go through and I am sure you will have tons of stuff to do and see, rather than to be scrolling the dial for radio stations. That’s why I have put together this article for you, so you won’t have to waste much of your precious time.
Let me tell you straight away that there is something for every type of person, whether you love listening to some good reggae tunes, or prefer music closer to your roots. If music is not your thing, you can also listen to news and politics, as well as tons of radio shows to get you up in the morning, jam with throughout the day, or lull you to sleep at night. What’s more, most of them are available on your smartphone, through apps or by streaming, so it’s easy to get your ears in tune.
So, which radio stations should you listen to?
Here’s a Full List of Radio Stations that you can Consider
Fame FM
Owned by the Radio Jamaica (RJR) Group, the Blazin’ 95 is easily one of the most popular radio stations across Jamaica. It is well known for its high dose of music, along with its fun disc jocks and personalities, such as Collin Hines, Nikki Z, and Arif Cooper. Depending on what time you tune in, you can hear reggae, dancehall, hip-hop, R&B, soul, and even rock.
One of its main attractions is retroactive Wednesdays, an all-day party where they play all the ‘oldies, but goodies’ from way back when, some of which you might not have heard in a long while. And speaking of party, Fame is also known for its merriments, from sporadic road parties that can pop up anywhere across the island, to theme parties that coincide with holidays, such as the Heroes’ Day weekend “Property Party” in October. If you happen to be on the island when they are putting on one of these parties, you could be in for a real treat.
Although, be warned, some of these shenanigans are not for the prude (wink, wink). Find them on the frequencies of the 95 band.
RJR 94
This is one of the oldest and most revered radio stations in Jamaica. In fact, you could easily say it’s the granddaddy of Jamaican radio. It has also been the home of some of the most iconic radio voices and personalities ever heard locally. Many of the older folks will tell you that they grew up on Alan and Doraine, a dynamic duo that ruled the airwaves at morning time during the 80s and 90s; many called them the husband and wife of local radio in their heyday.
Today, there is still Alan, but he now co-hosts with Paula-Ann Porter (she does an excellent job as his ‘second radio wife’ by the way). The two are somewhat like the timekeepers for people rushing out to work in the mornings, as well as children getting ready for school. Throughout the weekday, the station offers opportunities to listen to talk shows, news programmes, and feature presentations, as well as segments of music. You can catch RJR anywhere on the 94 band depending on where on the island you are.
Zip 103
Zip is among the newer breed of radio stations, although it’s been around for more than 15 years. A trendsetting favorite for many of the younger folks, it is well-known for its half-hour music slots, which cover one music genre at a time. Its short form news segments and presentations also make it appealing for the listener who doesn’t want to hear a lot of talking.
The station also boasts some of the most popular disc jockeys in Jamaica and, like Fame FM, has a day dedicated to oldies, which is called Time Travel Tuesdays. Zip 103 can be found on different frequencies of the 103 band.
Mello FM
The only radio station that is based in Montego Bay, Mello FM wears the motto “strong songs” appropriately. Not only does it provide musical entertainment at various times of the day, but the station also has a number of DJs and personalities that keep the vibes rolling. Chief among them are Ron Muschette, who has the duty of entertaining the early risers with his day break programme, and the notorious Barry G, who turns up afternoon radio with a fun and interactive show. Mello FM can be found on the frequencies 88.1, 88.3, and 88.5.
IRIE FM
Before diving into what this station is all about, you should know that the word ‘irie’ is a Jamaican term which basically means that everything is alright. With that said, the first local radio station to broadcast 24 hours daily does a good job of providing a blissful jam of some of the latest and most-loved reggae and dancehall tracks. Stellar personalities who serve up a healthy beat of Jamaican music include Elise Kelly, DJ Sunshine, DJ Neil, and GT Taylor. Also on its roster is Muta Baruka, a renowned poet, who engages in some of the most potent late night conversations and interviews you will ever hear. IRIE FM commands much of the 107 band.
SunCity
SunCity is one of the latest radio stations to come to the fore in recent times and has quickly become a favorite for its music and entertainment features. In addition to playing some of the biggest local and international hits and offering a range of feature presentations, including interviews, the station has also gained fans for its retro programme, Rewind Mondays. On its roster are a number of young and energetic presenters, who keep the music spinning as well as conducting interesting interviews. SunCity can be found on the frequency 104.9.
Love FM
If secular music and programmes are not your thing, Love 101 FM is just one of several gospel stations that has you covered in Jamaica. The radio station plays a variety of wholesome, Christian-themed music that is suitable for the entire family.
Whether you want to get some church on or just need a spiritual break from the troubles of the world, Love FM is the place to be and, like the other radio stations mentioned here, you can find them online as well. Top personalities and programmes that will keep you shouting the praises include Nadine Blair with “Love in the Morning,” Vivian Bonner with “Shades of Glory,” and Nigel Wilkinson with “Gospel Music Machine.”
Other Honorable Mentions
Some of the other radio stations you can check out, which hold a special place in the hearts of many, include Mega Jamz, Bess FM, Hot 102, Kool 97, KLAS FM, Music 99, NewsTalk 93, Nationwide News, and Power 106. All these play a range of local and contemporary music hits from today’s music catalogue and yesteryear, as well as offer a number of lifestyle, sports, and current affair programmes to fill every hour of the day. Another gospel option that is also popular, especially for people of the Sabbath faith, is NCU FM, the broadcast arm of the Northern Caribbean University.
No matter how technologically advanced the world becomes, it seems people will always love listening to the radio. In fact, with statistics showing that more than 90% of people 12 years and older still listen to traditional AM/FM radio, it is reasonable to believe you would be interested in Jamaican stations once you’re on the island. I hope this article will help you to add another level of fun to your Jamaican experience. Enjoy!
[kkstarratings]
