Gold Radio's roots go all the way back to 1988 with London's Capital Gold. The formula of…read morebroadcasting "all-time classic hits" aimed at over-50s is a vastly successful one, as Gold Radio now broadcasts to Manchester on 1458 AM. Its output is still a bit retro for me. I mean, Status Quo aren't really that exciting are they? And I struggle to listen in an ironic way because it's not really like having fun listening to the rocking classics on Rock Radio. But if you're a bit older, and fancy relaxing and listening to some classic tracks, Gold Radio is certainly worth a go.

# Oh oh oh it's magic, you know, never believe it's not so... #…read more Do you like cheesy bake with extra grated cheddar on top? Maybe stir a bit of brie into that bad boy, add some emmenthal, gruyere, camembert... do you realise I'm speaking metaphorically? Well then tune into Magic! Rather like rival Heart, Magic plays cheesy classics. Ballads from movies like Top Gun, cheery pop, fizzy frivolity, all brought to you by down to earth Mancunians residing at Castle Quay, the same pretty little block that also incorporates Key 103. Simple. On your way out to a hen party or some big gay fun in the Village? I can't recommend Magic more. It'll warm your heart, lighten your load and put a spring in your step. Also recommended before a depressing day at work. If you're a morning person, that is.

If you're a fan of all things smooth and relaxing from the 60s, 70s and 80s, then Magic Radio is…read moreprobably well worth a listen. True, at any given time you tune in, you're almost certain to find "Up Where We Belong" by Joe Cocker and Jennifer Warnes playing. But then sometimes that's nice to listen. A good smooth and cheesy love song never hurt anyone did it?

Ahhhhhhh, Fuse FM. I have many a fond memory of Fuse. You see, in the 04/05 academic year, twas I…read morewho read the show proposals, and thusly decided who would be given a show. I'll level with you guys, I loved my Fuse times, and made a hell of a lot of friends through Fuse. I, too, had the pleasure of producing and presenting my own shows; Lady and the Tramp, a tongue-in-cheek Monday morning ramble through the minds of myself and Shambolic Friend, and Double Drop, a cutting edge electro show that took itself, and remixes, very seriously. The great thing about Fuse FM is the incredible mix of content and character. Fuse FM doesn't have a 'sound'; your 2-hour slot is your own. As long as there's no swears, you can say what you like and play what you like! Anyone joining Fuse should join the music team; you get free CDs and gig tickets, all in return for writing reviews. And let's be honest, evvvverybody likes writing reviews. If you're still a student at the Uni of Manchester, and you have any interest in music and want to share it, keep an eye out for the next broadcast. It's four weeks of fun and frolics, and you could very well make some awesome friends along the way.

Wahoo! The University of Manchester student radio station. I didn't get to listen much, because…read morethey were "off air" for half the year. This was before I went and got my own radio show at my home university and at an underground station. My friend the video game and music editor at Student Direct had a show, and I liked it. I took stills from the webcast of his show, from Santa Barbara, and sent them to him. He was kinda freaked out but amused.

Broadcasting out at 1377 and 963AM, Asian Sound is the only 24-hour radio station in Manchester…read morethat is purely dedicated to Asian music. It's a true reflection of our multi-cultural society in Britain that a radio station on a mainstream frequency broadcasts in English, Urdu, Punjabi, Bengali and Gujarati. Not that I'm going to tune in and always understand what's going on, but then radio is one of my hobbies and I'm interested to hear the output of all kinds of different stations. Asian Sound has attracted controversy and even fines in the past from broadcasting overtly political content. Whilst staying away from these controversies recently, tackling and discussing important issues are still an important part of the station. True, Asian Sound's website is woefully out of date and listening online just doesn't work, but if they can sort these bits and bobs out it would mark a real improvement to the station. Online content is important you know!

Community radio is 90% community, and 10% radio, so the saying goes. All FM is a valuable addition…read moreto Manchester, providing opportunity, support and development to well over one hundred volunteers. Over to the content that All Fm produces. You can tune into All FM all over Manchester on 96.9FM, and this means that although it's a community radio station, it has a real presence in Manchester and produces radio that many people all over the city enjoy. Variety is the name of the game at All FM. If you tune in at random times during the week you're likely to hear anything from chart to break beat, dance to reggae, Polish language programs and even a program dedicated to Manchester's transport issues.

Imagine FM is all about South Manchester and Stockport. There's a lot to be said for local radio…read moreand how it can help make people feel connected to their local area and community. Imagine FM does just that, with its news and sports updates focusing on the big national stories but also the news that matters to local people in its catchment area. Music wise, Imagine FM prides itself on playing "only the songs you love." If you love mainstream pop music from decades past and also today, then Imagine FM fits the bill. My taste is slightly more alternative, and as such I like listening to this radio station on a short car journey or whatever rather than in my headphones whilst I'm working at home on my computer.