The Tribune

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net

AN INTERNET based radio station operated by a Bahamian couple is adding several new features to its lineup this year, in an effort to reach audiences in jurisdictions that extend far beyond the borders of home.

Bahamas Soul Radio was started last June and streams live from the Bahamas. Daily, listeners tune into a morning show, special segments dedicated to showcasing Bahamian music, and a mix of R&B, Soul and other music. In the next few months, the lineup will be extended to feature syndicated programs, jazz sessions, expanded musician profiles and Motown evenings. The effort is aimed at growing the station’s listenership. Sundays will continuously feature gospel music.

Sheryl “Sherry T” Beard and her husband David “DJ Expat” Beard, founders of the Bahamas Soul Radio, hope the new segments capture the attention of even more audiences in the US, Canada, and throughout Europe and bridge the gap between generations, cultures and communities.

“The main push behind starting the internet radio station was based on connecting persons to the islands of the Bahamas through a common love of music. Advanced technology and lower start-up costs made it feasible for us to start one of the first internet-based radio stations in the country,” said Sheryl.

“Our station has a collection of more than 98,000 tracks. We took just over five years to carefully compile the music and to build up the collection to what it is today,” said David.

Bahamas Soul Radio is designed to uplift, motivate and inspire listeners. It also serves as a vehicle to showcase the Bahamas to the world.

“The target audience includes persons living in the United States, Canada and Europe. The station aims to draw persons in through music and use the platform as a way to highlight the destination and the lifestyle that exists in the Bahamas to potential visitors.

“We are proud of our beautiful country and love sharing it with others. Our experience so far has proven that there is a great deal of intrigue and curiosity about these islands.

“We wanted to take this concept of ‘on the go’ radio and use it to highlight the country in a positive way. The station attracts listeners from more than 110 countries, according to Sherry.

The station recently reached a milestone with 72,000 hits, surpassing its original target, she said. On average, the station attracts approximately 400 hits per day from fans primarily in the US, Canada and throughout Europe.  

Sheryl said she was surprised how fast the station grew.

“We knew that the idea for a local internet radio station would catch on but we were surprised at how fast it is growing,” she said.

Bahamas Soul Radio is currently working on a back-up system to ensure continuous play on the station for up to three weeks without interruption. There are also plans to incorporate local video interviews with musicians on the site.

The station plans to expand its advertising options to include video spots for local advertisers seeking to reach the tourist market.

The station can be accessed by logging on to www.bahamassoulradio.net.