ESR at 6
➔ Beyond Algorithms
In an age where mainstream media often homogenizes culture and music, there’s something undeniably refreshing about the thriving, independent voices emerging from the world of internet radio. East Side Radio, which recently celebrated its sixth anniversary in Lisbon, stands as a prime example of the power and relevance of these off-the-beaten-path curators who shape what we hear, when we hear it, and how we hear it. ESR didn’t emerge from an industry-funded, high-profile launch.
Rather, it was born out of a shared belief by its founders, Tiago Pinto and Andre Grenada aka Funkamente DJs, in the potential of an online platform where music could transcend commercial imperatives. What began as an audacious experiment in 2018, inspired by an encounter with Amsterdam’s Red Light Radio, has blossomed into a cornerstone of Lisbon’s cultural scene. Over six years, the station has flourished—without the support of traditional radio structures or corporate backers—because of a commitment to curating music and experiences for people who are just as passionate about discovery as they are about the art itself.
“It’s not about playing it safe or appealing to the masses, but rather about embracing the freedom to experiment, to mix genres, to take risks.”
East Side Radio’s journey encapsulates the very essence of what makes unconventional radio so special: it’s not about playing it safe or appealing to the masses, but rather about embracing the freedom to experiment, to mix genres, to take risks. It’s about building community through music, fostering a collective spirit that reflects the rich diversity of the city it calls home. While traditional media outlets may restrict themselves to safe playlists and mass appeal, stations like ESR breathe life into the local scene, creating platforms where the unsung and the underground can find their voices.
What makes the station's growth so significant is not just the music it plays, but its ability to connect disparate cultures. From the humble beginnings broadcasting out of Pinche Mercado to the eventual move to container studios in Beato Beach, East Side Radio’s adaptability has made it an institution, powered by collaboration and an unwavering commitment to keeping the community at its core. In every broadcast, you’re reminded that it’s not just about the music; it’s about the experiences that music creates and the people who make it happen.
"Every show—whether a mix of obscure jazz, experimental techno, or a spontaneous live session—is a reflection of the personal taste and artistic vision of those behind the mic."
As much as we may tout the convenience of streaming platforms and algorithm-driven playlists, there’s a glaring absence in the music world today: the personal touch. The hands-on curatorship that is alive and well in radio stations like ESR is something far removed from the “follow the crowd” mentality that dominates so many other platforms. Every show—whether a mix of obscure jazz, experimental techno, or a spontaneous live session—is a reflection of the personal taste and artistic vision of those behind the mic. These curators, often navigating between genres and cultural influences, represent the vitality and unpredictability that have long been missing from mainstream outlets. Moreover, stations like East Side Radio are offering a cultural counterpoint to the sanitization of global trends.
In a world where cookie-cutter playlists dominate streaming services and radio waves, these stations champion the concept of the "local." They’re not just promoting a specific genre or set of artists—they’re championing Lisbon itself, creating a platform where local culture, creativity, and community can find expression in real-time. From the team’s partnership with Duro De Matar, a taqueria run by the Foodriders collective, to its support for local events and the global exchange of music, East Side Radio is an example of what can happen when a station prioritizes creative connections over profitability.
Perhaps one of the most important aspects of ESR’s success is its commitment to inclusivity and participation. Tiago and Andre’s unwavering belief in the radio as a platform for anyone with a passion for music has opened up opportunities for both professional and amateur curators. The station has become a space where DJs and music enthusiasts alike can share their collections and selections. Feedback from listeners—requests for songs, shout-outs for the shows they love—demonstrates how deeply embedded East Side Radio has become in the daily lives of its growing community.
"The road to six years has been fraught with challenges, but the rewards have been immense: a thriving network of collaborators, friends, and fans who share the same commitment to community and creativity."
In a time when music discovery has been reduced to endless scrolling and algorithmic suggestions, East Side Radio’s model feels like a much-needed antidote. It’s not just about discovering the next trending track; it’s about discovering something meaningful, something that resonates beyond the superficial. It’s about community, about engaging with music not as a passive consumer but as an active participant in the creative process. ESR has found a way to put human curation back into the conversation, providing a space for music lovers to explore, discover, and connect.
As East Side Radio marks six years of broadcasting, the lesson is clear: in an era of digital uniformity, individualistic internet radio represents a vibrant, crucial counterpoint. The station’s success is proof that there is a deep hunger for authenticity in the music world. The future of music curation will belong to the curators off the beaten path, to the stations that don’t simply follow trends but instead help create them. For those who still believe in the magic of the underground, the power of the local, and the joy of discovery, ESR is not just a radio station—it’s a beacon of what independent radio can and should be.
