Radio may be one of the oldest forms of broadcast media, but it’s proving time and time again that it knows how to stay relevant. From airwaves to the Internet, it’s a medium that has continued to evolve and adapt to the world of today. One of the most unexpected places it’s thriving? TikTok. Yes, the app known for dances, trends, and Gen Z humor has become a surprising hotspot for radio content, and some stations are going very viral.
So how are they doing it? And what can you learn from them?
1/ TikTok: A goldmine for radio stations
2/ Viral radio accounts
3/ Radio snippets
4/ Tips for radio hosts
5/ Cross-platform content
Why TikTok Is a Goldmine for Radio Stations
TikTok thrives on authenticity and audio, two things radio does best. While other brands struggle to find a voice, radio already has one (literally).
More and more stations are using TikTok not just as a marketing channel, but as a content playground. Whether it’s behind-the-scenes moments, quirky presenter clips, or audio snippets that spark nostalgia, the possibilities are endless.
Real Radio Accounts Going Viral
Don’t believe us? Let’s take a look at how some real-life radio stations and hosts are nailing the TikTok game:
1. BBC Radio 1 (@bbcradio1)
With over 2M followers, BBC Radio 1 leverages its interviews and presenter personalities to create viral content. Think hilarious on-air challenges, unexpected celebrity moments, or chaotic “first thing that comes to mind” games.
Viral moment: Clips from the “Unpopular Opinions” segment regularly rack up millions of views, thanks to witty banter and candid reactions from celebrity guests.
2. Z100 New York (@z100newyork)
Z100 New York are using TikTok to post rapid-fire interviews and meme-worthy clips of in-studio antics. They also jump on trending audio, remixing it with their own spin.
Viral moment: When a guest freestyled live on-air and the moment was clipped and shared. It picked up over 1M views thanks to the #freestylechallenge trend.
3. Kyle & Jackie O Show (@kyleandjackieoshow)
This Australian radio duo makes the most of shocking call-ins and controversial takes. Their clips are raw, authentic, and often dramatic, which is exactly what TikTok eats up!
Viral moment: A caller’s wild relationship confession got over 3M views and turned into a stitched trend.
The Return of Iconic Radio Snippets
Radio is also part of TikTok’s growing nostalgia wave. Classic radio jingles, awkward 2000s interviews, or even soundbites from infamous rants are being resurrected as viral audio clips.
Remember “Leave Britney alone!” or that old “What’s up?!” Budweiser commercial? These throwbacks often originated on-air or were popularized through radio, and TikTok is now giving them a second life.
Some creators are even lip-syncing to iconic radio interviews from the early 2000s (Britney Spears, Avril Lavigne, Eminem), giving them new context and comedic effect.
Tip: If your station has archives, dig into them! Post quirky or weirdly funny throwbacks with a modern caption or stitch. You never know what might hit.
Tips for Radio Hosts on TikTok (and Beyond)
If you’re a radio host, DJ, or station manager looking to grow your visibility, here’s how to ride the wave:
1. Turn Your Best Bits Into Short Clips
Got a hilarious caller, a hot take, or a guest slip-up? Clip it! The magic of TikTok is that it rewards moments. Use captions, jump cuts, and trending audio to keep attention.
✅ Top tip: Keep clips under 30 seconds, and start with a hook like “You won’t believe what this caller said…”
2. Show Your Face
People connect with personalities. Don’t just hide behind the mic! Film reaction shots, behind-the-scenes prep, or post-show recaps. You’re the brand.
3. Remix Trends with Your Own Twist
See a trending sound? Recreate it from a radio perspective. For example, turn the “He’s a 10 but…” trend into “He listens to AM radio but…” You get the idea.
4. Educate or Entertain
Try “Did you know?” segments on bizarre music facts or quickfire music history. Radio hosts are walking encyclopedias, and TikTok loves that kind of knowledge drop!
5. Use Subtitles and Captions
Most users scroll with the sound off. Subtitles and text overlays help make sure your message gets through, and can actually make videos more meme-worthy. Plus, it helps the algorithm understand what your content is about, which can help boost it to the right audience.
Cross-Post Across Platforms
TikTok content performs surprisingly well on Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, and even X (formerly Twitter). A single 20-second clip could be your ticket to going viral across the board, so don’t hesitate to re-use your content to see where it shines the brightest.
🎯 Top tip: Always add your station’s handle/logo discreetly on your videos, so the content leads viewers back to you, even if it’s reshared by another account.
Radio is no longer confined to the airwaves, and TikTok is proof. With just a smartphone and a bit of creativity, stations of all sizes can reach new audiences, grow their brand, and even spark viral trends. So whether you’re a national broadcaster or an indie station, don’t sleep on short-form video.
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