Hip-Hop & R&B Radio Hour

This one-hour radio show blends hand-picked hip-hop and R&B tracks with live hosting to deliver a seamless audio experience that mirrors the pulse of college life. Created as part of my radio production training, the show features intros, segues, and commentary—all voiced, produced, and programmed by me. From upbeat anthems to smooth R&B cuts, this mix was designed for kickbacks, study sessions, and everything in between. It's a prime example of my ability to curate sound, direct tone, and build authentic audience connections—skills I’m ready to bring into full-time creative roles.

 

The Challenge

To design and host a compelling one-hour Hip-Hop and R&B radio show that not only entertained but reflected the energy, history, and cultural depth of the genre, while also demonstrating professional broadcasting and creative direction skills in a live format.

Creative Approach

I crafted a radio experience that felt more like a cultural event than a playlist. By integrating smooth transitions, curated throwbacks, and new-school hits, I built a sonic narrative that honored both the roots and future of Black music. I layered in short voice breaks to hype up the set, introduce themes, and connect with the audience, drawing inspiration from late-night radio legends and contemporary tastemakers.

Execution

Produced at Santa Monica College's SMC Radio studio, this segment was entirely self-directed—from scriptwriting to track selection, mic presence, timing, and post-editing. I utilized Adobe Audition for voice recording and audio balancing, and paired the final mix with branded graphics for social sharing and podcasting. The show aired live and was then archived for on-demand listening, showcasing my ability to manage all phases of audio production while creating content that resonates with a culture-first audience.


Tarelle Butts © 2018