Jonathan Duguid is something of a radio heavyweight, with 12 years of experience under his belt, he is best known for his drive time show on UCT Radio. Zalebs chatted to Jono to find out what life behind the mic is like!  

You’ve been in radio for a long time, haven’t you? How long has it been in total?

That is correct. I am currently in my 12th year of being on radio. I started out as a pukkie on a Christian station, left mid-high school, and got involved at UCT Radio when I started studying at UCT, and while I’m no longer a student, I am still a radio host at UCT Radio.

Do you choose the songs that get played?

I do, indeed. I have a master playlist set forward from the Music Department, which I choose my music from. Most of the music I play is commercial – to fit in with the audience of my timeslot.

If we tune into your show, what can we expect?

Apart from great jams, my show is entertaining and informative. I keep people company as they drive home, make them bob their head, turn up the volume, and let loose after a long day at varsity, school or the office.

What’s your favourite thing about being on radio?

Everything, I guess. It’s very difficult to choose something out in particular, although I do enjoy hearing what my audiences think I look like, after I meet them. Generally they’re very far-off.

Have you ever had any really embarrassing moments on air? Tell us about them

I have had embarrassing moments. Too many really, especially in my earlier days of radio. From forgetting to turn of the mic, to cussing on-air, to almost peeing myself. You name it, I’ve probably done it.

In your line of work you must have come across a few celebrities, care to name drop a bit?

Hahaha! Well, I have interviewed and met my fair share of celebrities, but I guess the most notable interviewees are Sir Ian McKellen, aka Gandalf or Magneto, and comedian Pablo Fransisco.

If people want to tune in, how can they do so?

I’m on UCT Radio every Monday – Friday, from 3-6pm. Folks in the Greater Cape Town area and Southern Suburbs can tune in on 104.5fm.

By Rachel Alberts