The book explores the impact of two commercial radio stations, Radio Luxembourg and Europe n°1, on Western Europe during the Long Sixties, highlighting their transnational operations and differentiation from other broadcasters. It contributes to media history and cultural studies in the region.

Format: Hardback
Length: 292 pages
Publication date: 31 December 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

Radio Luxembourg and Europe n°1 were two prominent commercial radio stations in Western Europe during the Long Sixties, known for their extensive reach and transnational broadcasting. This book explores the significance of these stations in the media landscape of the time, highlighting how their existence as part of a broader 'dispositif' of commercial radio stations allowed them to operate on various dimensions and differentiate themselves from other broadcasters. By examining the history of Radio Luxembourg and Europe n°1, the book contributes to the cultural and media history of Western Europe, challenging the traditional boundaries of national and single-medium studies. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the stations' impact on society, culture, and politics, and sheds light on the complex relationships between media, entertainment, and consumerism in the region. Through a range of primary sources, including interviews, newspaper articles, and government documents, the book offers a unique perspective on the development of commercial radio in Western Europe and its role in shaping the modern media landscape. It also explores the challenges faced by these stations as they navigated the changing regulatory environment and technological advancements, and the ways in which they adapted to remain relevant and successful. Overall, the book offers a valuable contribution to the field of media history and provides a deeper understanding of the role of commercial radio in shaping the cultural and social landscape of Western Europe during the Long Sixties.

Radio Luxembourg and Europe n°1: Transnational Broadcasting in Western Europe during the Long Sixties

This book focuses on two commercial radio stations, Radio Luxembourg and Europe n°1, which were popular institutions in Western Europe throughout the Long Sixties, working across media and broadcasting transnationally. It argues that the existence of an overarching ‘dispositif of commercial radio stations enabled them to operate on various dimensions and differentiated them from other broadcasters. The book therefore answers current calls in media history to look beyond national and single-medium borders and contributes to the cultural and media history of Western Europe.

The Significance of Radio Luxembourg and Europe n°1 in the Media Landscape of the Time

Radio Luxembourg and Europe n°1 were two prominent commercial radio stations in Western Europe during the Long Sixties, known for their extensive reach and transnational broadcasting. This book explores the significance of these stations in the media landscape of the time, highlighting how their existence as part of a broader 'dispositif' of commercial radio stations allowed them to operate on various dimensions and differentiate themselves from other broadcasters. By examining the history of Radio Luxembourg and Europe n°1, the book contributes to the cultural and media history of Western Europe, challenging the traditional boundaries of national and single-medium studies.

The 'Dispositif' of Commercial Radio Stations

The book argues that the existence of an overarching ‘dispositif of commercial radio stations enabled them to operate on various dimensions and differentiated them from other broadcasters. This 'dispositif' included a range of factors, such as the availability of radio frequencies, the development of advertising techniques, and the emergence of a consumer culture that valued entertainment and consumer goods. By operating within this 'dispositif', Radio Luxembourg and Europe n°1 were able to reach a wide audience and establish themselves as major players in the media industry.

The Impact of Radio Luxembourg and Europe n°1 on Society, Culture, and Politics

Radio Luxembourg and Europe n°1 had a significant impact on society, culture, and politics in Western Europe during the Long Sixties. They played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and promoting cultural values, and they also provided a platform for political discourse and debate. The stations' programming included a wide range of genres, from music and news to comedy and drama, and they catered to a diverse range of audiences. They also played a role in promoting consumerism and materialism, and they contributed to the development of a consumer culture that was characterized by a desire for luxury goods and status symbols.

The Challenges Faced by Radio Luxembourg and Europe n°1

Despite their success, Radio Luxembourg and Europe n°1 faced several challenges during the Long Sixties. These included the emergence of new technologies, such as television and satellite radio, which threatened their dominance in the radio industry. They also faced competition from other commercial radio stations, as well as government regulations that sought to limit their advertising and programming content. To address these challenges, the stations adapted by introducing new programming formats, such as talk radio and sports radio, and by expanding their reach through satellite broadcasting. They also worked closely with the government to ensure that their programming was compliant with regulatory requirements.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive analysis of the significance of Radio Luxembourg and Europe n°1 in the media landscape of Western Europe during the Long Sixties. It argues that the existence of an overarching ‘dispositif of commercial radio stations enabled them to operate on various dimensions and differentiated them from other broadcasters. By examining the history of these stations, the book contributes to the cultural and media history of Western Europe, challenging the traditional boundaries of national and single-medium studies. It provides a valuable resource for scholars and students interested in the history of media and communication, and it offers insights into the complex relationships between media, entertainment, and consumerism in the region.

Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031462498
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023