The Rise of FM Music with the Baby Boomer Generation
By: Bryce Brock
By: Bryce Brock
Frequency modulation, or FM, radio was originally instituted
by the FCC in 1940, but it did not expand until after World War II. The baby
boomers ushered in this new wave of radio technology. The amplitude modulation,
or AM, radio sponsored mostly talk shows and news programming. FM radio created
a clearer sound because of its high frequency waves. Thus, it was a better
platform to listen to music and talk shows. Mishkind states that “Armstrong
also operated a subcarrier on that transmitter and demonstrated transmission of
facsimile, to show that newspapers might also be deliverd by radio broadcast
stations” (Mishkind). The creation of the newly popular FM radio also brought
in expanded songs with more questionable content and lyrics. With less
restriction over controversial material, this style allowed for a new way to
express one’s thoughts to a wide audience.
Music artists could reflect on the happenings of the times
through their music. Many issues were prevalent at the time including war,
politics, social movements, and racism. These situations influenced the themes
apparent in rock and roll. Lyrics were inspired by Americans’ thoughts and
feelings towards current events. Although songs like for “What It’s Worth”
could be heard around the country, not all songs dealt with protests and anger.
Much of the music from the period spoke of love and happiness and provided a
distraction from the harsh realities of the times.
FM radio was not only a fixture in the home, but also
widely listened to in cars. Baby boomers could access their rock and roll music
while driving. The first car radio “was introduced in1922 by Chevrelot”
(DeMain). Later on, as prices decreased, “over one third of America’s radio
listening occurred in the car” (DeMain). The theme of individuality and freedom
in rock and roll music played into the baby boomers’ own sense of freedom.
These attitudes and themes found in the baby boomers’ generation continue to
influence music played on FM radio today.
A variety of FM stations that began in the 1960’s innovated
different aspects of radio that are still around today. For example, the “Top
40” charts still exist that consist of the most well liked songs. Having the
invention of FM radio allowed people to preview music, which ultimately boosted
the music industry’s sales. FM radio’s roots are in highlighting the music of
the baby boomers generation. With the rise of FM radio popularity, a new voice
was heard that impacted a generation and shaped the future of that industry.
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“For What It’s Worth” by Buffalo Springfield
-
This song expresses negative feelings towards
the Vietnam War. It’s an iconic song that reflects the times of the war.
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“Respect” by Aretha Franklin
-
This song was ranked number one on a list of the
top rock and roll songs of the 1960’s. The popularity of the song shows the
change in times where the country is moving to a more integrated society. It
also expresses the general attitude of baby boomers wanting the respect that
they feel they deserve.
-FM and AM radio differences
- This video shows the sound quality difference between AM
and FM Radio. Take note that the AM Radio has much static is present.
Works Cited
DeMain, Bill. "When the Car Radio Was
Introduced, People Freaked Out - Mental Floss." When the Car Radio Was
Introduced, People Freaked Out - Mental Floss. N.p., 3 Jan. 2012. Web. 20
Nov. 2012. <http://www.mentalfloss.com/blogs/archives/112013>.
Mishkind, Barry. "This Is the FM
Section of The Broadcast Archive." Broadcast History. N.p., 5 Mar.
2012. Web. 19 Nov. 2012. <http://www.oldradio.com/current/bc_fm.htm>.
Videos from Youtube.
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