How Public Radio Music Stations are Connecting Listeners, Strengthening Communities, and Forging a More Civil Society
Public radio music stations are more than curated playlists. They are cultural anchors, creative engines, and trusted public service institutions that bring people together through the shared experience of music. In a time when digital algorithms increasingly shape what we hear and how we connect, public radio music stations remain rooted in local voices, community stories, and human connection.
These are the findings of The Civic Soundtrack, Public Media Company’s latest report, co-authored with VuHaus Group and supported by the Wyncote Foundation. The report draws on responses from more than 60 public radio music stations across the country, along with in-depth interviews with ten stations representing a wide range of formats, geographies, and market sizes. Throughout, we highlight the many ways public radio music stations positively impact the communities they serve.
What We Found
From Classical to Jazz, Americana to Urban Alternative, Triple A, Mixed Format, and everything in between, The Civic Soundtrack reveals how public radio music stations:
- Build civic connection by creating shared experiences that cross generational, geographic, and cultural boundaries.
- Amplify local culture through artist discovery, live sessions, event partnerships, and storytelling rooted in place.
- Drive economic impact via local sponsorship, festivals, venue partnerships, and creative workforce development.
- Provide a trusted, human-centered alternative to commercial and algorithm-driven media, offering authenticity, care, and curation.
- Develop the next generation of listeners and creators through youth programs, internships, DJ training, and local music education initiatives.
The Stakes Have Never Been Higher
The report was conducted prior to the elimination of federal funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which has historically supported many music stations. For some, this loss represents up to 30% of annual revenue — a potentially existential threat.
Despite these challenges, the findings offer hope. Stations were already adapting by deepening local partnerships, diversifying revenue strategies, and expanding their digital presence to reach younger and more diverse audiences — all while connecting communities and bringing joy to the millions of listeners they serve each week.
Public radio music stations are unique in their ability to create shared emotional experiences that build empathy, trust, and local identity. The Civic Soundtrack offers a detailed look at how public radio music stations are strengthening their communities — and what it will take to sustain this work in a rapidly changing media environment.
Read and download the full report: https://publicmedia.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/civic-soundtrack-report.pdf
