Community radio stations across the United States often feature programming themed around eras and genres of music. Such content may include “oldies” music shows, historical programs focused on a decade, or classic genre specials. A subset of such programming seeks to take historical soundbites, so to create a particular aesthetic to the program.
How far is allowable when it comes to old sounds of radio? For instance, can your community radio station do a program where a DJ airs old-time radio jingles or commercials? Will a community radio station get into trouble with the Federal Communications Commission for violating commercialism rules?
Whether is it vintage movie theater advertising or 1950s’ songs about particular products, these spots hold a special place for some listeners. Questions arise about legality. NFCB has answers for this and many other questions in the Solution Center, our knowledge-base for member stations. If you’d like the answer to this and more needs of community radio, join today.
