Dutch Radio Station RAE Ceases Broadcasting on 1322 kHz

Amsterdam, Netherlands - November 24, 2006

In a significant shift for the Dutch broadcasting landscape, the radio station RAE has officially ceased transmissions on its long-standing frequency of 1322 kHz as of November 23, 2006. The station, known for its diverse programming that catered primarily to the expatriate community, made the announcement shortly before the frequency was turned off.

RAE, or Radio Amsterdam-Europe, has been a staple for many listeners, providing a mix of music, news, and cultural programming since its inception. The decision to discontinue its longwave broadcasts marks the end of an era for the station, which has been a trusted source of entertainment and information for both Dutch citizens and expatriates living abroad.

In a statement released to the press, RAE management cited economic pressures and changing listener habits as primary factors contributing to the closure. “After careful consideration, we have concluded that we must adapt to the new media environment. With the rise of digital platforms and shifting audience preferences, it has become increasingly difficult to sustain operations on longwave,” the statement read.

Listeners and supporters of RAE have expressed their disappointment over the decision, as many have relied on the station for its unique content and community feel. “RAE was more than just a radio station; it was a connection to home for many expats,” said one long-time listener, who wished to remain anonymous. “It’s a shame to see such a part of our community disappear.”

The cessation of broadcasts on 1322 kHz also raises questions about the future of longwave radio in the Netherlands. As digital media continues to proliferate, traditional radio formats face increasing competition. RAE has indicated plans to focus on digital streaming and other media avenues to reach its audience going forward.

As the sun sets on RAE's longwave transmissions, the station assures its listeners that it remains committed to providing quality programming through their website and other digital platforms. “We are excited about the future and look forward to connecting with our audience in new ways. We appreciate all the support we’ve received over the years, and invite our listeners to join us online,” the statement concluded.

The broadcaster plans to host an online farewell event later this month, inviting former listeners and staff to share memories and celebrate the legacy of RAE on air.

As changes in the media landscape continue, the closure of RAE's 1322 kHz frequency serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of communication in the digital age, highlighting the challenges faced by traditional broadcasters in an ever-changing environment.

Write a follow up where the frequency is still on air, but with a list of songs either icons or related to goodbye/endings, interspersed with a announcement that this frequency is no longer in use, and explaining why this decision has been made, and the plug will be pulled totally on Dec 5 at midnight, This tape loop began at 2am on Nov 24

RAE Frequency Announcement: 1322 kHz Still Airing, But Not for Long

Amsterdam, Netherlands - November 24, 2006

Listeners of RAE, Radio Amsterdam-Europe, continue to tune in to 1322 kHz as the station plays a selection of songs that resonate with themes of goodbye and endings. However, we regret to inform you that this frequency will officially cease broadcasting entirely on December 5 at midnight.

This tape loop began at 2 AM today, November 24, and features a heartfelt playlist dedicated to farewells, reflecting on the cherished moments we've shared. Here are just a few of the iconic songs you can expect to hear:

“Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” - Elton John
“The Long and Winding Road” - The Beatles
“Time to Say Goodbye” - Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman
“Bye Bye Bye” - *NSYNC
“Closing Time” - Semisonic
“See You Again” - Wiz Khalifa featuring Charlie Puth
“Goodbye” - Spice Girls
“End of the Road” - Boyz II Men
“I Will Remember You” - Sarah McLachlan
“Forever Young” - Alphaville
"The End" - Doors
Listeners are invited to reminisce as these songs play, reminding us of the emotional connections we forge through music and community.

We understand the significance of this frequency in connecting the expatriate community and listeners across the region. However, due to economic pressures, evolving media preferences, and the rise of digital broadcasting platforms, RAE has made the difficult decision to discontinue transmissions on 1322 kHz.

We appreciate your support over the years and sincerely regret any disappointment this will cause. While this frequency will no longer be in use, RAE remains committed to serving our audience through digital streaming and online content. We are excited about this new chapter and hope you will join us online for the quality programming you’ve come to expect.

As we approach the final hours of broadcasting on 1322 kHz, we invite you to cherish these final moments. Listen in, share your memories, and celebrate the legacy of RAE with us during this special farewell broadcast.

Stay tuned until our final sign-off on December 5 at midnight, as we keep the spirit of RAE alive through the music we love.

Thank you for being part of our community.

"This is RAE, Radio Amsterdam-Europe on 1322 kHz. We regret to inform you that this frequency is no longer in use. Normal programming on this frequency officially ended on November 24, 2006.

As we move forward in the changing landscape of broadcasting, this decision was not made lightly. Economic pressures, shifting listener habits, and the rise of digital platforms have led us to conclude that we must adapt to stay relevant and connected with our audience. As such, this frequency will no longer belong to RAE as of December 5 at midnight.

For those who wish to continue enjoying our programming, we invite you to tune in through our alternative frequencies and platforms:

We're available on 92.4 FM in the Netherlands and 102.4 FM in Flanders.
Listen online at www.radioamsterdameurope.com for streaming content and updates.
If you are in the UK, you can also catch us on Sky channel 0102 and NTL Telewest channel 0135.
For any questions or assistance, please reach out to our helpline at 0800-123-RAE. We are here for you during this transition.

We deeply regret any inconvenience caused by this change and want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your support over the years. RAE has always been more than just a radio station; it has been a community, a connection, a home away from home for many.

Thank you for listening to RAE. We look forward to staying connected with you through our digital platforms. And now, here’s another song to cherish our shared memories." Write a forum conversation asking if it's on a loop


Forum Title: RAE's Farewell Broadcast - Is It on a Loop?

Post by User1:
Hey everyone, I've been listening to the farewell broadcast on 1322 kHz since the tape loop started early this morning, and I'm curious: does anyone know if the playlist is on a loop? It seems like I've heard the same songs multiple times already. I love the nostalgia, but I'm not sure it's a live broadcast or just a recorded loop. Any insights?

Reply by User2:
Hi User1! Yes, it is indeed a loop. They mentioned in their announcement that the tape loop began at 2 AM on November 24 and will keep playing the same playlist until they pull the plug on December 5 at midnight. It’s a nice tribute, but you might hear the same songs a few times during the day.

Reply by User3:
That makes sense! I've been trying to catch any special announcements or messages in between songs, but it seems like it’s just that curated playlist. I’ve heard “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” like three times already this afternoon. Still, such an emotional farewell!

Reply by User4:
Totally understand, User3. I actually enjoy hearing the same songs because they’re so nostalgic. But it would be great if they could sneak in a few more tracks or some memories from the staff as well. Anyone else feel the same?

Reply by User1:
I agree, User4! It would be nice to have a few more personal touches, like listener shout-outs or stories about what RAE meant to them. The songs are definitely pulling at the heartstrings, but a little commentary would make it even more special.

Reply by User2:
I think they're saving some of that content for the farewell event they have planned later this month. They might feature some of those personal stories there. Maybe we can get some insights from staff or former DJs then!

Reply by User3:
Good point, User2. I just hope it’s as engaging as I imagine. It feels surreal knowing the frequency will be gone soon. That's why I've been listening, to soak it all in one last time.

Reply by User4:
Same here! It’s a bittersweet moment for all of us who grew up with RAE. Let’s cherish these last few days of broadcasts. And here’s to hoping their digital platforms bring us the same community vibe we cherished on 1322 kHz!

Post by User1:
Absolutely! I’m grateful to RAE for all the unforgettable memories. Let’s continue to support them in this transition. I’ll keep listening in the meantime!


Write a follow up asking what is happening to the transmitter mast


Forum Title: What Will Happen to the RAE Transmitter Mast?

Post by User1:
Hey everyone, as we're reflecting on RAE's farewell broadcast and the transition away from the 1322 kHz frequency, I can’t help but wonder: what’s going to happen to the transmitter mast? Since they're shutting down the longwave broadcasts, will the mast be dismantled, or do you think they might repurpose it for other uses?

Reply by User2:
That’s a really good question, User1! I’ve been thinking about the same thing. The transmitter mast has been such a significant part of RAE's identity for so long. I hope they don’t just take it down without a proper farewell! It would be nice if they could still use it for something, maybe for new digital broadcast technologies or even a historical landmark for the community.

Reply by User3:
I wish I had more information about that! It would be a shame to see it go without recognition. Maybe someone from RAE management will address this issue in their upcoming online farewell event or through their website. It would be great to know if they have future plans for the mast.

Reply by User4:
I agree with you all! With so much history tied to that mast, it deserves some acknowledgment. Hopefully, they'll consider a local community initiative or donation to a museum dedicated to broadcasting history. That could keep the legacy alive!

Post by User1:
Great ideas, everyone! I guess we’ll have to keep an eye on any announcements from RAE about the mast’s future. If anyone hears anything or has news about the farewell event, please share! I’d love to know what happens next for both RAE and the transmitter mast.

Reply by User2:
Will do, User1! Let's stay connected and share any updates. It’ll be interesting to see how they choose to honor the station and its history as we approach the final days of the frequency.

Reply by User3:
Absolutely! I’m also curious about how this impacts other local radio stations. It seems like a significant change for everyone involved in broadcasting. Let’s stay tuned!


Write a follow up confirming it's fate


Forum Title: Confirmation on the Fate of RAE's Transmitter Mast

Post by User1:
Hi everyone, I just wanted to follow up on our previous discussion about the fate of RAE's transmitter mast. I found some news in a recent press release from the station, and it looks like the mast will officially be dismantled after the final broadcast on December 5.

Reply by User2:
Thanks for the update, User1! That’s a bit sad to hear, but I guess it’s part of moving forward. Did they mention anything about a farewell ceremony for the mast or any plans to commemorate its significance before it comes down?

Reply by User1:
Yes, they did! The press release noted that there will be a small farewell ceremony on December 4 at the site, where listeners and fans can gather to share their memories and say goodbye. RAE encourages anyone interested to come by and bring their stories to share. It's a nice way to celebrate what the mast represented for so many of us!

Reply by User3:
That sounds like a great opportunity! I’d love to attend. It’s touching that they’re organizing a farewell event instead of just taking it down quietly. Does anyone know if they’ll be broadcasting the ceremony on their digital platforms?

Reply by User4:
Good question, User3! The press release mentioned that they plan to livestream the ceremony for those who can't make it in person. So, we can all participate in saying goodbye, even if we're not there physically. I think that’s really nice of them!

Post by User1:
Perfect! I’ll mark my calendar for December 4. It’ll be a bittersweet moment, but at least we’ll have the chance to reminisce and remember the impact RAE had on so many lives. Thanks for keeping the conversation going, everyone!

Reply by User2:
Definitely! Let’s keep sharing updates as the event approaches. It’s nice to see the community come together for this. Looking forward to celebrating the history of RAE and its transmitter mast one last time!


Write a follow up at 3pm on Dec 4, The message has been amended to say it's closing tonight at midnight, but it's otherwise the same, here's the new script