Tuned in to a force that unifies
Stephanie Be is 5FM’s music compiler and the host of ‘5 Mid Mornings’
What does a music compiler do?
Music compilers/music managers at radio stations curate and manage the music that is broadcast every day. Curating playlists takes up a lot of time if you do it properly because you want to make sure that you’re choosing songs that fit both the station’s vibe — banging Top 40 tunes, in 5FM’s case — and the presenter whose show you’re curating for. It’s all geared towards getting more people listening for longer.
There’s also an element of being involved in programming strategy, such as when to play certain types of songs, managing the flow of music throughout the day and incorporating promos or special features. The most important part for me is also staying on top of current music trends, discovering new artists and reviewing new releases to keep the station’s music library relevant and engaging. There is also managing relationships with the artists and record labels to make sure that everyone is happy, ensuring we meet our licence requirements, managing the music library and collaborating with onair talent.
How did you end up doing this work?
I’ve always been involved in music — I studied it from an early age through Trinity College of Music London — so I was bound to end up in the industry somehow. I started in campus radio, then commercial radio, then was brought to 5FM for my music knowledge and presenting experience. I always worked closely with the music department when I was just a presenter, so it was a logical next move for me to step into the music department when a gap opened up.
What do you think makes you a good music compiler?
The role requires a deep understanding and love of music, and I believe that I deliver on both. I understand the technical aspects of music composition and the elements of what makes a song commercially viable, but I also absolutely love music of all kinds. I am always online, so I’m always discovering new artists and making sure that local musicians get the chance they deserve to have their music heard on 5FM.
What do you enjoy most about working for a national station like 5FM?
I love that we speak to so many of South Africa’s youth and that we try to create engaging and relatable content for everyone. I think music is also a unifying force in South Africa, and I’m honoured to be a part of that.
What did you want to be when you were a child?
I wanted to be a lot of things when I was little; it changed a lot! Ballet dancer, marine biologist, game ranger, teacher, pop star, lawyer, artist — I struggled to find a niche, which might have actually helped me when it comes to radio. The only true constant in my life was music.
What advice do you have for the matrics of 2023?
Take the time to explore different subjects, activities and hobbies. This will help you discover your passions and interests, which could guide your academic and career choices. Don’t let other people try to convince you of what you should be doing! Set both short-term and long-term goals for yourself and break them down into manageable steps.
Learn about basic financial concepts, such as budgeting, saving and managing debt. Developing good financial habits early can contribute to long-term financial stability and will set you up for success. And, lastly, be open to change.