Internet turns radio into visual medium

The New York Times reports that radio stations are embracing Internet video as a way to stay relevant in the digital age.

The nation’s commercial radio stations have seen the future, and it is in, of all things, video.

(deletia)

Across the country, radio stations are putting up video fare on their Web sites, ranging from a simple camera in the broadcast booth to exclusive coverage of events like the Super Bowl to music videos, news clips and Web-only musical performances.

“This is no longer the age of ‘having a face for radio,’ ” said Dianna Jason, the senior director of marketing and promotions at Power 106, a Los Angeles hip-hop radio station. “This is a visual medium now.”

Here are some examples of how commercial radio stations are using Internet video:

Power106 (a Los Angeles hip-hop station)

KNRK 94.7 (Portland, OR alterna-rock station)

WFLZ(Tampa, FL hit music station)

Minnesota Public Radio has begun to offer Internet video content from its studios, as well as the Fitgerald Theater and UBS Forum. You'll find interviews with musicians like Kristin Hersh and Calexico; newsmakers such as Newt Gingrich; and an appearance by MPR editor Bob Collins on Fox News.