Music Power: The Untold Story of Capital Radio 604 Premieres with New Footage and Live Fan Interaction

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The documentary Music Power: The Story of Capital Radio 604, which captures the history of the iconic radio station that shaped South African media during the apartheid era, is set for a re-release on YouTube. This version, which includes additional footage, will also offer fans and former staff members a unique opportunity to interact during a live viewing experience. The documentary sheds light on how Capital Radio 604, which operated from 1979 to 1996, provided a critical platform for uncensored news and music, breaking through the oppressive governmental control of the time.

Craig Johnston, the creator behind the documentary, filmed the project over a five-year period, largely during his spare time, out of passion for the station’s legacy. While the documentary was originally launched on December 26, 2019, to mark the station’s 40th anniversary, this updated version will feature added b-roll footage and improved audio for a more polished experience.

Johnston explained that his motivation for making the documentary stemmed from his fear that the history of the station, which had played a pivotal role in shaping independent radio broadcasting in South Africa, would soon be forgotten. “As time went on, the story was at risk of being lost forever, with many former staff members passing away. I wanted to preserve this important piece of South African radio history for future generations,” he said.

Capital Radio 604 operated from the Transkei, a homeland created by the apartheid government, and was known for its innovative approach to broadcasting. It introduced a fresh, audience-focused style that contrasted sharply with the government-controlled South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC). The station’s format included slick jingles, lively presentations, and groundbreaking news delivery, which not only attracted a wide following but also set new standards for local broadcasting.

One of the station’s most important contributions was its music selection, which included tracks that were banned or restricted by the SABC. This gave birth to numerous local bands, including Juluka, whose early success was heavily supported by Capital 604’s airplay. Johnston emphasized that the station’s all-inclusive approach to broadcasting brought people together across racial lines, offering a voice to all South Africans and fostering a sense of unity that was rare at the time.

Alan Khan, a former presenter, recalled the station’s groundbreaking role in the industry. “When Capital Radio 604 went on air, it was a breath of fresh air for the country. It revolutionized South African broadcasting by offering something completely different from the state-controlled media,” he said. Khan noted that many notable broadcasters, including Treasure Tshabalala, Oscar Renzi, Lee Downs, and Kenny Maistry, got their start at the station.

Despite its success, the station closed its doors in 1996, two years after the country’s first democratic elections. The closure was due to a combination of financial challenges and the inability of the weak Medium Wave signal to compete with the rise of FM radio. However, its legacy has lived on, with many of its former staff members continuing to shape the radio landscape in South Africa.

Capital Radio 604 was briefly revived as a streaming station during the COVID-19 pandemic, drawing in an audience nostalgic for the music and broadcasting style of their youth. This revival proved that the station’s influence was still deeply felt among listeners, even years after its closure.

Johnston emphasized the importance of watching the documentary, not just for those who grew up listening to the station, but for anyone interested in understanding the cultural and historical impact of Capital Radio 604. “The station wasn’t just about music; it was about offering a different perspective, about educating people and showing them the world beyond their immediate surroundings,” Johnston said.

The documentary, set to premiere on YouTube on January 25, 2025, promises to be an immersive experience for fans old and new. Johnston invites viewers to join the live premiere to interact with former staff members and fellow fans, discussing the history of a station that changed South African broadcasting forever. Those interested can tune in at 12 noon on the scheduled date via the Capital Radio 604 website or YouTube link.