Corporate FM

Corporate FM is a thought-provoking and eye-opening documentary that was released in 2012. The director, Kevin McKinney, smartly tackles the current state of commercial radio and its evolution under corporate control. Starring the vocal talents of Danny Cox, Jewel, and Wayne Coyne, this film takes a deep dive into the ins-and-outs of the radio industry and how it got to where it is today.

In an era when private interests control much of what the public sees, hears, and reads, Corporate FM isn't shy about shedding light on the machinery behind local radio stations. Local radio has been a pivotal part of American community fabric and culture, playing a variety of roles from news and entertainment provider to a platform for local musicians. However, as the film shows, corporate buyouts have often led to the marginalization of local content, a reduction in diversity, and an overwhelming influx of commercial content, all under the guise of profits and shareholder value.

The film opens with an introduction of our key stars, including singer-songwriter Jewel, Flaming Lips' lead singer Wayne Coyne and radio announcer Danny Cox. Their anecdotal insights provide the backbone of the documentary, narrating their personal experiences with the radio industry. Jewel, who made her start in independent music, discusses her varied experiences with commercial radio. Wayne Coyne, known for his distinctive views on the music industry, contributes his unique perspective on the situation. Danny Cox, with a lifetime of experience in radio, provides his insider's perspective on the change in the industry.

Corporate FM weaves in interviews with several noteworthy contributors, including journalists, music executives, former DJs, all leading to a richly nuanced depiction of the radio landscape. Each different perspective brings to light different facets of the impact of corporate control on local radio. These interviews not only reinforce the central narrative but also offer illuminating insights into the issues at hand.

What makes Corporate FM unique is its emphasis on the importance of independent and local stations in promoting new music and fostering local communities. It looks beyond the music, focusing on the role that radio plays in connecting communities and building regional identity. It's shown as a platform for local stories and voices that might otherwise go unnoticed in the national media landscape. Beyond this, the film is also a love letter to music, exploring the role of radio as a critical platform for discovering new artists and genres.

Rick Wakeman's involvement in the project cannot go without mention. The musician and record producer, best known as the keyboardist in the progressive rock band Yes, offers his own outlook and discusses the intersection of music and business. These ideas propel the narrative forward and further illuminate its central premise.

While the film reveals the harsh reality of the radio business, it also revitalizes hope in the possibility of radio's regrowth and rebirth. It positions its audience to question and challenge how and where they listen to music, and who decides what they're hearing. The crucial link between the local radio stations and their communities is constantly stressed and its loss mourned.

The cinematography, coupled with well-curated archival footage, creates an immersive viewing experience that simultaneously educates and entertains. The pacing is skillfully done, maintaining viewer interest while delivering hard-hitting facts and statistics. From a technical standpoint, the film effectively balances entertainment and fact, creating a compelling and interesting narrative that is engaging as well as informative.

Overall, Corporate FM is a thorough examination of the corporate-controlled radio industry, touching on its early days, its evolution, and its current form. Through in-depth interviews, personal narratives, and solid research, it presents a poignant message on the importance of independent, local radio stations and the consequences of their loss. If you love music, care about the state of media, or have an interest in how business intersects art, Corporate FM is a film that should not be missed.