Derry O'Callaghan Archives - Irish Pirate Radio Audio Archive

11th September 202627th August 2026

Early Cork series: Top 40 countdown on Radio City

This short recording of Cork pirate Radio City was made in spring 1982, the station’s last year in operation. The Top 40 countdown is presented by Derry O’Callaghan in an afternoon slot. There are references to other DJs finishing up and changes happening in the station. The Cork radio scene was shook up around this time by the launch of a new professional pirate, South Coast Radio that would continue in its initial guise until 1984. Radio City left the air in autumn 1982.

The recording is from the Anoraks Ireland Collection and was made on 2^nd March 1982 from 95.7 FM. The DJ also announces 199 metres (1512 kHz) but logs suggest that Radio City had moved to 240 metres (1242 kHz) by this time.

22nd October 202527th August 2026

Early Cork series: Sunday lunchtime on Radio City

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This recording of Cork pirate Radio City features Sunday lunchtime programmes from the spring of 1981. Up first is John Mariner with what appears to be his last show. He is followed by Derry O’Callaghan with the Radio City Top 40. There are some adverts during the broadcast and a charity appeal to listeners. Audio levels are variable with some distortion on the links and adverts.

The tape was made from 95.7 FM on Sunday 8^th March 1981 from 1237 to 1402, with an edit in the middle. Thanks to Lilian O’Donoghue for the donation.

30th September 202527th August 2026

Early Cork series: More of the launch of Radio City

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This recording features more of the launch broadcast of Cork pirate Radio City at the end of August 1980. Pete Andrews (O’Neill) is in the chair with music and a preview of the planned programmes with various DJs including Susan James, Seán Collins, Derry O’Callaghan, Dave Johnson, Steve Douglas, John Marner and Dave Powell. There’s a cryptic reference to DJs from rival station Capital Radio who are said to be outside but not invited to the launch. Full programming on Radio City began the following day.

This recording was made from 1512 kHz, announcing 199 metres between 1634-1711 on Sunday 31^st August 1980 and is courtesy of Ken Baird. Audio quality is fair with variable levels.