The time was 12:58.
I was seated in the Xpress Radio Studio in the presenter’s chair.
I knew what I wanted to do; I had spent two hours of an 11 degree morning in Cathays, Cardiff, preparing for it. The first episode of my one-hour radio show on campus radio in the United Kingdom!
What had I gotten myself into!!
Despite all the BBC Radio One and Talk Sport I had paid excessive amounts of minutes listening to, I realized that nothing was enough to prepare you for what was about to come.
Don’t get me wrong. The music I had chosen was great. I mean, how could I go wrong when I had folks like Iyanya, R2Bees, Whiz Kid and 2Face Idibia on my playlist? What could prevent the folks from the Afro Caribbean Society from being my very first guests on the show? I mean, I know I don’t have the best voice on the radio, but then hey, people love my voice… right?
All the same, all the real work was done. So why was I still feeling weak in my knees as a looked at the console in front of me? Why did I forget to update my Facebook Page about the show?
I will tell you.
First of all, I am surrounded by some of the most energetic and creative undergrads in the world. Their shows are really great. Here I am, 28 years old Ghanaian man, who has not completely gotten a full hang of the instruments in front of him.
Secondly, I am a freaking Postgrad! Instead of hitting my books in some gloomy library, I am here playing Azonto music! Who does that!
Thirdly I have no idea how many people like Afro Caribbean music. All I know is that the majority of the people like Fuse ODG. That’s all.
However, as I pressed the button to get the signature tune for the show started, some things happened.
Firstly, the thought hit me. I have been doing radio for the past six years for heaven’s sake. What is it about campus radio can I not do? The systems are different and very well put together but then still… What at all can I not do?
Secondly, my show is unique in so many different ways. Its Azonto music! How can I go wrong with that?
Thirdly, God dey with me! Also people like Assistant Manager, Sam, Head of DJ’s, Pri, Head of News, Sally and the woman who got me more than interested in it all, Alice, simply make it all a delight as well.
The show was good. It was not perfect, but really good. It only gets better with time. I get to relax and do something I really like. Play for the world music I really like.
Take a listen to the show if you have a chance and leave me a comment.
PS: Connect to Xpress Radio via the following link: http://cardiffstudentmedia.co.uk/listen/