Radio Waters launched in November 2022, but its roots stretch back much further.

For sixteen years, many of our DJs called Purple Radio home, a community station that grew out of the Big Chill Forum. When Purple Radio came to an end, a subset of DJs came together to create a new home. They wanted to preserve what people loved most, while creating a station with its own identity and ethos.

Most of those original DJs are still with us, while others have joined since. Together they’ve shaped the station you’ll hear today. Our listeners are often station DJs, and many of our DJs are listeners. People tune into each other’s shows, discover new music, share recommendations and, before long, familiar names become familiar friends.

For us, it’s never been about having the biggest audience. It’s about building the right one. We’ve always believed there’s something special about seeing a favourite artist in a small venue. People are there because they want to be. They listen, they stay, they come back. That’s the feeling we’ve always wanted Radio Waters to have. Some of our DJs play major clubs and festivals. Others simply love sharing music. Around here, what matters isn’t where you’ve played, but wanting to share great music with people who’ll appreciate it.

Today, Radio Waters is home to around 30 regular DJs, with around 50 live shows every month alongside guest mixes and one-off broadcasts throughout the year. When there’s no live show on air, you’ll hear replays of previous broadcasts, and most shows are also available on Mixcloud if you fancy listening back. We’re fully licensed by PRS and PPL, ensuring the artists, songwriters and rights holders behind the music are properly supported.

Whether you’re listening or thinking about joining us behind the decks, you’re always welcome.