If you've gotten to the point where you fear the "peer-to-peer", there's some good news: Radio air-checks abound on the 'Net and you can listen for free. You just need to know where to go.
These files have been posted on the Internet for everyone to enjoy. They are sound files which have been created from recorded air-checks. An air-check is a recording of a broadcast which is then usually "scoped". That means most of the music and commercials are removed to make it easier to listen to only the content from the DJ.
Through these classic air-checks which date back decades, you can hear the most famous Radio DJs of all time doing what made them great.
Many of these air-checks have been converted to RealAudio and there is no charge for listening.
We promise: the RIAA will not show up at your door with a lawsuit. As a matter of fact, nobody will bother you no matter how many files you stream across the 'Net to hear.
The top site is ReelRadio's "Reel Top 40 Radio Repository". This website has been updated weekly since 1996 and continues to be a wealth of sound that documents Top 40 Radio history and the Radio personalities and DJs that have contributed to it. There are about 1200 exhibits online, all having been contributed without expectation of profit.
The Reel Top 40 Radio Repository describes itself as "a wonderful 'Collection of Collections', a continuing and combined effort of broadcasters and listeners who remember Top 40 Radio."
The Reel Top 40 Radio Repository is layed out by category: "Hitbound" which are the latest editions to the collection, the "Fab 40" - the most listened to air-checks on the site, "Collections" where enthusiasts are contributed air-checks from their personal collections, "Extras" where you'll find "a reverse-chronological listing of all additions to the site since the beginning", "Special Reports" - a feature area of highlighted moments, and a link page to other air-check sites.
So, if you're a fan of Radio and the disc-jockeys who made it great, check out this site and let them share it with you to your heart's content.
