Gord Gibb's New Online Radio Channel Captures Void In Marketplace For Baby Boomers
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There is lots of terrific local radio out there for Gen X, Y and Z but not so much for Baby Boomers anymore. So how to reach them? Why, online of course through the power of technology.
Yes, iconic local broadcaster Gord Gibb—who works at Corus's Fresh radio in town—has launched the delightfully retro YourKawarthaOldies.com as a hobby, with oldies streaming 24/7 there, as well as audio archives from the area to keep a unique "local" feel.
Gibb has even started broadcasting a live morning show there from 6 am to 9 am Monday to Friday.
He's also wonderfully self-deprecating about it all on Twitter...
Gibb has a passion for that music, and identified a major hole amongst those who want to listen to that type of music. "There was a void in the market," Gibb tells PTBOCanada. "I began building the site two years ago as something to launch and play with when I retired, but then decided the need is there now and there was no format overlap or conflict with Corus, so I ran with it."
Gibb says he first started developing the site in March 2013, began streaming it in early 2014 in beta but kept it under the radar until he was ready. He officially launched it February 15th, and the reaction has been terrific—among baby boomers and even a younger crowd that likes to hear the classics once in a while depending on their mood.
Gibb understands where the radio marketplace has gone, and isn't critical of who it caters to now at all. But he recognizes that has opened a huge market to tap into. Opportunity knocks.
"Commercial radio in Peterborough appears now to be focusing exclusively on more recent material for demographics under 50," he says. "I don't quarrel with their decision in this regard. But I also know there is a vast demo in this market 50-plus pining for this stuff."
Gibb adds: "Yes oldies are available online elsewhere and on satellite, but I wanted to create a local channel that will also include, as I can find them, audio archives from the area—radio and television."
Gibb is doing this on his own time, own dime, with his own resources—as a service to the community. He's still not able to track listeners—"I'm supposed to be able to track them, but sorting out some glitches in the tracking client," he tells us—but says the reaction amongst those who have tried it has been extremely positive.
Have a listen for yourself at YourKawarthaOldies.com.
Everything old is new. With technology and creative ingenuity.
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