Radio Days: What impact did radio have on society?

Whereas newspapers and books can only provide dated information, radio allowed news, music, and stories to be shared instantaneously. In the early and golden age of radio, broadcasts were listened to by practically everyone. As a result, radio became a powerful and influential medium in society. Moreover, radio revolutionized the way audiences received their news and entertainment until the invention of the television and later the internet became the preferred mediums. During its heyday, families gathered around the radio to hear their favorite shows and personalities. Along with playing a variety of music, a number of shows that were geared towards specific audiences kept people glued to their radios. For example, shows such as Major Bowes and His Original Amateur Hour developed a following and people tuned in at the same time each week (Crowley 202). It was similar to the popularity of current shows, like American Idol and America's Got Talent. In addition, radio also granted advertisers a new way to reach consumers, politicians a platform to sway voters, and listeners to stay informed with up to the minute news.