Radio Nova International

Radio Nova International streams live from Belfast, United Kingdom, on Tuninga Radio.

This radio station specializes in Top 40/CHR, Oldies music.

The station broadcasts a Top 40 music format, drawing heavily from the era of the original station’s success (1981-1986) while incorporating contemporary favorites. It aims to replicate the spirit and sound of its predecessor, emphasizing a commercial-free and not-for-profit approach. The broadcaster’s programming is built around a foundation of familiar jingles and music, alongside new elements like the NOVA POWER HOUR and POWERPLAYS, designed to maintain the energy and excitement of the original. A key element of the station’s identity is its commitment to honoring the legacy of its founder and the personalities who shaped its early years. The station’s focus remains firmly on music, reflecting a core principle from the original iteration. The programming schedule includes a notable weekly show, “CHRIS CARY – BACK TO THE FUTURE,” hosted using artificial intelligence to recreate the voice and perspective of the station's founder. This show features memories, anecdotes, and musical selections from the original NOVA years. Other notable figures from the original station’s history, such as John Clarke, Tony McKenzie, and Lawrence John, contribute to the on-air programming. The station also acknowledges the influence of U.S. radio legends Casey Kasem and Gary Owens, whose syndicated programs were popular during a previous period of operation. The programme director and driving force behind the relaunch, Lawrence John, previously worked at the original station and founded other radio stations. The station’s history is deeply rooted in the legacy of a previous pirate radio station, originally launched in 1981 by UK pirate radio veteran Chris Cary. Cary, a former DJ on Radio Caroline and Radio North Sea International, operated the original station until 1986, when a dispute with the NUJ led to its closure. Forty years after its initial broadcast, the station was relaunched online in February 2021. The relaunch serves as a tribute to Cary and the original air personalities, many of whom are no longer living. The broadcaster aims to be a “living testament” to the original station's contribution to Irish broadcasting, recognizing its unique place in radio history. The station operates exclusively online, positioning itself to capitalize on the growing popularity of internet radio and car radio. It embraces a future-oriented approach, leveraging technology like AI to recreate the voice of its founder. The broadcaster emphasizes its not-for-profit status and commitment to music, aiming to provide a listening experience that honors the past while embracing new possibilities. The station acknowledges the changing landscape of radio, noting the increased distractions present today compared to the 1980s, and seeks to establish a lasting presence within the online audio environment.