Artificial intelligence advancements have reshaped various industries, from healthcare to entertainment. In the music world, AI-driven algorithms have revolutionized how listeners engage with platforms like Spotify, Apple Music and Pandora by curating playlists tailored to individual tastes and preferences. This raises a compelling question: Could AI replace programming personnel on FM radio, especially music programming personnel?
While AI offers efficiency, data analysis and personalization, it cannot replicate the depth, creativity and human touch required to schedule a compelling FM radio programming.
Let’s delve deeper.
Local connection and cultural sensitivity
FM radio is deeply embedded in a community’s cultural and social fabric. Unlike streaming platforms, which often operate on a global or national scale, FM radio thrives on its ability to connect with local audiences. Program directors and music compilers understand their regions’ cultural nuances, seasonal moods and unique traditions, enabling them to curate music that resonates with listeners in specific regions.
For example, a station in a coastal town might feature light summer songs during the summer months, aligning with the beach season, while a station in an urban area may shift its playlist to promote commercial activities during festive celebrations.
While AI can identify broad trends and preferences, it lacks the contextual awareness to tailor playlists to these hyperlocal needs. It cannot interpret the emotional weight of a local event or understand the unspoken connections that bind a community.
Emotional storytelling through music
Great music programming is more than just assembling popular tracks; it’s about creating an emotional journey for listeners. Skilled human programmers carefully craft playlists to evoke specific moods, tell stories and create moments that resonate deeply with audiences.
Music compilers may curate reflective and hopeful songs to acknowledge moments of collective grief while inspiring resilience. Similarly, during celebrations like Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, Deepavali, Christmas or New Year’s Eve, they might craft high-energy playlists to enhance the festive atmosphere.
While AI can analyze song attributes like tempo or genre, it struggles to grasp music’s emotional and cultural significance. A song’s meaning often transcends its technical characteristics — it might be tied to a historical moment, cultural shift or shared memory.
A presenter’s anecdote about a song or a heartfelt dedication message adds a layer of relatability that AI cannot replicate.
Real-time adaptability
One of radio’s defining traits is responding instantly to real-time events. Whether it’s breaking news or the sudden passing of a beloved musician or icon, human programmers can adjust playlists to reflect the moment’s tone and significance.
Consider how stations react during natural disasters, offering a mix of critical updates, calming music and uplifting messages. Similarly, when a cultural icon like David Bowie or Tina Turner passes away, FM radio in most countries becomes a hub for tributes, featuring their music alongside commentary about their impact.
AI, in contrast, operates within preset parameters and algorithms. While it can analyze trends or detect spikes in song popularity, it cannot understand the emotional gravity of a moment or pivot quickly to address it.
For example, while watching a YouTube video about Jeju Airlines tragically crashing in South Korea in late 2024, I saw YouTube ads ironically playing promotional videos for Jeju tourism. Imagine the consequences of AI-curated FM radio music schedules in similar situations. Without human judgment or emotional awareness, AI could make tone-deaf choices that amplify distress or appear insensitive.
Building personal connections
FM radio is a deeply personal medium. Listeners tune in not just for music but for the companionship of presenters and the human touch behind the programming. These humans create trust and intimacy through storytelling, song selections and engagement with the audience.
A presenter’s anecdote about a song or a heartfelt dedication message adds a layer of relatability that AI cannot replicate. These personal connections foster loyalty and make FM radio more than just a background activity — it becomes a part of listeners’ daily lives.
While efficient, AI lacks personality and warmth. It cannot connect with listeners on an emotional level or offer the authenticity that makes FM radio feel like a shared experience.
Balancing and fostering
Music programming is both a science and an art. AI excels at the scientific side, analyzing listener data, predicting trends and optimizing playlists to maximize retention. However, the art of programming — taking creative risks, introducing new voices and pushing boundaries — is the key strength of music compilers and remains firmly in their hands.
Human programmers have an innate ability to sense when an unconventional track might resonate with their audience or when it’s time to introduce an emerging artist. On the other hand, AI is inherently risk-averse, often prioritizing familiar and popular sounds. While this ensures safe choices, it stifles innovation and limits the diversity of sounds that FM radio listeners are exposed to.
FM radio is also a cultural hub that brings communities together through shared experiences. From hosting charity drives to featuring local artists, radio stations play a vital role in strengthening community ties.
AI cannot understand or engage with the human need for connection and community. While it can analyze data, it cannot foster relationships or contribute meaningfully to local events.
The human edge in FM
AI undoubtedly has a role to play in music programming, particularly in analyzing listener preferences and automating routine tasks. However, it cannot replicate the creativity, empathy and cultural awareness that human programmers bring to FM radio.
FM radio is more than a platform for music — it’s a medium for connection, storytelling and community building. It thrives on its ability to reflect its listeners’ lives, emotions and experiences. The enduring appeal of FM radio lies in its heart and soul — qualities no algorithm can truly replicate.
Until AI can match the depth of human intuition and emotional intelligence, FM radio programming will remain a uniquely human endeavor.
The author is a radio engineering and technology consultant.
This story originally appeared in the July/August 2025 edition of RedTech Magazine.
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