Sale of WVIP 93.5 FM will not hinder Sound Chat Radio’s success: Bourne

The sale of WVIP 93.5 FM in New York was a shock to many, including Sound Chat Radio, which is celebrating its 12th Anniversary all year long.

But, although WVIP 93.5 FM has been a pillar of Caribbean-focused programming, Garfield “Chin” Bourne, owner of Sound Chat Radio, expressed confidence on Wednesday that his station will thrive, stating that his station is “the pioneer of Caribbean digital radio.”

“Namely, the station will resume its top-notch Caribbean talk, community and music shows via the Sound Chat Radio app and it website www.soundchatradio.com,” said Bourne, adding that an investment in digital technology was made from the very beginning of Sound Chat Radio. 

“As a result, the station’s digital listenership actually surpassed that from traditional radio,” he added. “So, while the sale was a surprise, it will not cripple Sound Chat Radio’s infrastructure. The sale of WVIP 93.5 FM could aid in the growth of Sound Chat Radio’s digital footprint, further solidifying them as powerhouse platform. 

“The fact is, we can’t continue to feel that despite the world changing around us daily, the way people enjoy radio will stay the same,” he added. “Radio has to move with the times and technology. “It has to be fun, informative, entertaining and convenient to listen to. 

“Digital radio allows our listeners to tune in from anywhere in the world at any time,” Bourne continued. “Traditional radio has boundaries that prevent such comfort.” 

Amidst the news of the sale, he said Sound Chat Radio had recently reached “quite the milestone” in its anniversary commemorations with an invite from New York City Mayor Eric Adams (via Jose Bayona, Executive Director, Mayors Office of Ethnic & Community Media) to visit City Hall. 

Specifically, Mayor Adams will present Bourne with a proclamation for the work he’s done over the years. 

Notably, Bourne said Sound Chat Radio’s philanthropic efforts “authentically separate the station” from its radio contemporaries in the Caribbean space. 

“With community involvement as a key part of their mission, Sound Chat Radio has built an undeniable presence with food drives, giveaways and addressing community issues,” Bourne said. “These factors, in part, captured the attention of Mayor Adams’ Office.

“I have worked very hard from the beginning,” he said. “With our digital broadcasting options and the willingness of the Mayor’s Office to assist us in becoming an official media entity in the State of New York, I believe Sound Chat Radio is positioned to soar to the next level with or without WVIP 93.5 FM.” 

In addition to broadcasting on their branded digital platforms, Bourne said Sound Chat Radio reaches millions of listeners monthly through syndication in over 30 cities, spanning several countries. 

Aside from the US, he said the station has “an immense presence” in the UK, Canada and the Caribbean. 

Hot topics, high-profile guests and listener engagement are key drivers of Sound Chat Radio’s success, Bourne said. 

Sound Chat Radio: www.soundchatradio.com