New Orleans … Best Local Radio in America

What can I write about the three best local radio stations in the country … all in one city?

I mourn the loss of quality local radio in most cities around the country. Most stations are owned and run by large corporations that have stripped away any authentic connection with the communities they serve. In many cases, the programs, weather, news and other content is delivered by radio broadcasters not even located in the cities. It’s just piped-in and non-stop formula programming that all sounds alike, and is largely trivial.

WWL's legendary talk show host Garland Robinette

For example, the Washington, DC, area – my hometown – has been reduced to partisan and agenda-driven radio. Take it with a grain of salt and hold suspect what they claim.

The all-news station in Washington, WTOP, serves up little more than ten-second soundbites and superficial news coverage. It’s far from in-depth or informative.

But … radio in New Orleans, on the other hand, is terrific and best in the land. There are three stations, especially, in New Orleans that I believe are of the highest quality, professionalism and integrity for reflecting the people and the city they serve. Serving a community responsibly … isn’t that what local radio is all about?

WWL – a consistent icon for outstanding radio broadcasting in America, WWL has seasoned, knowledgable and engaging talk show hosts, like Garland Robinette and Spud McConnell, who are involved in the community and know what they are talking about. WWL’s local news is superb and exceeds network caliber. If you come to New Orleans, all you need to do is listen to WWL for about 15 minutes to know what’s happening in the Crescent City.

Spud McConnell and his wife Mo on WWL

WWOZ – Anytime of the day or night is a good time to listen to this station that reflects the heritage and soul of New Orleans. Blues, jazz and oldies, played by people who know the local music community. My gosh! They still even play scratchy records on WWOZ … and, it’s wonderful to hear. WWOZ also streams its programming online.

WWNO – I would rank this local NPR station among the top public radio stations in the country for its authentic connection with the city through local programming, involvement and special coverage. In the sometimes hubris atmosphere of local NPR stations, WWNO defies the norm by putting involvement in the community before itself, and as a result, engenders terrific community support.

Whenever I come to New Orleans … which is often … my only challenge is which station to switch to first. They are all fabulous, and they all have my respect.

Another note about New Orleans … I love Community Coffee and their coffee houses scattered around the city. Wonderful coffee, friendly atmosphere (“Good morning, hon…” is the usual greeting) and free WiFi. Wish Community Coffee would expand nationwide.

Category: Featured, Personal notes