Radio magazines and the development of broadcasting: Radio broadcast and radio news, 1922–1930

Abstract

This paper explores the development of two early popular radio magazines: Radio Broadcast and Radio News. The two magazines developed along with the emerging broadcast industry during the 1920s. The historical review and content analysis of the magazines revealed that they enjoyed a great deal of success in the early 1920s by appealing to amateur radio enthusiasts. Both started as general literary magazines and presented a diversity of content including technical training, literature, forums for exchange, contests, and descriptions of the varied uses of radio. As the broadcasting industry became more clearly defined, the two magazines narrowed their appeal to a technical audience rather than broadcasters. As a result, neither magazine emerged as a significant voice for broadcasting.