New radio conference to explore Signals from the Edge and celebrate Pirate Radio

The University of Bedfordshire’s Post Graduate Centre in central Luton will host a one-day conference that sheds light on the history, politics, and lasting impact of land-based ‘pirate’ radio.

Titled Signals from the Edge, this event will delve into the origins and influence of unlicensed broadcasting, with a special focus on the 1970s and 1980s.

The conference will explore the social, cultural, and technological aspects of pirate radio, a movement that played a pivotal role in shaping the music landscape, broadcasting practices, and the birth of community radio in the UK.

Topics discussed will include the rise of pirate stations, the music they promoted, the technologies they used, and how these stations were documented and archived despite their often elusive nature.

Dr. Lawrie Hallett, the organiser of the event, highlighted the significance of the movement: “The impact of unlicensed broadcasting is often overlooked. Various mainstream formats started out on land-based ‘pirate’ stations, and it certainly drove the development of Community Radio here in the UK,” he said.

“Many of those working in the mainstream today started out without a licence – so its influence is significant and well worth exploring and documenting.”

The conference will feature contributions from across the UK and Ireland, as well as international perspectives on pirate radio. Attendees will have the opportunity to access exclusive archive materials, including rare audio recordings, that offer a glimpse into the world of unlicensed broadcasting. Additionally, the university’s own community radio station, RadioLaB, will be on hand to record interviews with contributors and attendees, providing a live, interactive element to the day.

Signals from the Edge promises to be an enriching and immersive experience for those interested in the intersection of media history, politics, and cultural movements. Whether you are a long-time radio enthusiast or simply curious about the roots of modern broadcasting, this event offers a unique opportunity to explore the untold stories of the airwaves.

Don’t miss out on this fascinating journey into the world of land-based ‘pirate’ radio on Saturday, March 1st, 2025. More details here.