Talk Radio

Talk radio generally refers to radio programming where listeners call in to express their opinions on air. Listeners are invited to participate and to take a stand on the topics under discussion. Talk radio shows often feature interviews with prominent people. According to media history professor Hugh Chignell, talk radio is a mainly American phenomenon that arose due to specific conditions in the U.S. radio industry.

Talk radio can be produced at a relatively low cost, with a small staff and no need to pay royalties [Page 1714]for music. Audience participation is fundamental to talk radio, and the development and popularization of mobile technology have made it easier for listeners to call in to radio shows throughout the day. In recent years, broadcasters have been able ...