Listeners React Strongly to New Jingle on RTÉ’s Liveline

Kieran Cuddihy has taken over as the new host of RTÉ Radio 1’s Liveline, succeeding long-time presenter Joe Duffy. While his debut show did not garner much attention for his performance, it was the introduction of a new jingle that sparked significant backlash among listeners. The change has led to a wave of complaints on social media, as many fans express nostalgia for the previous theme.

The jingle, which has been replaced, was a well-loved snippet from Over the Moors, performed by the 1986 Irish folk band Stockton’s Wing. Listeners have described the new jingle as “instantly forgettable,” prompting many to take to social media to voice their discontent. The strong emotional response highlights a deep connection many have to the show’s musical identity.

One listener remarked, “Hang on a second, they’ve replaced the iconic Stockton’s Wing theme tune with some limp, feeble, instantly forgettable jingle? What have they done that for?” Another chimed in with “Justice for Stockton’s Wing!” and a third lamented, “The Liveline music has been changed to some sort of off-the-shelf corporate blandness. Is NOTHING sacred anymore?”

The decision to change the jingle is not entirely unexpected. It is common for television and radio programs to update their theme music when a new host steps in. However, the theme Over the Moors had a particularly long history, dating back to the time of former presenter Marian Finucane. It became a staple during Joe Duffy’s tenure, which lasted for over two decades.

Media commentator Gavan Reilly noted the likely influx of calls to Liveline, indicating that the change may have been a miscalculation by the producers. He tweeted, “Liveline about to be bombarded with calls complaining about changing the sig tune to Liveline.”

The first caller on Cuddihy’s inaugural show brought attention to a serious issue, detailing the lengthy wait her mother experienced for an ambulance prior to a critical diagnosis. This poignant moment served as a reminder of the show’s purpose amidst the jingle controversy.

As of now, Extra.ie has reached out to RTÉ for comment regarding the backlash but has yet to receive a response. The reactions will likely shape how RTÉ approaches the show’s brand identity moving forward. The strong emotional ties listeners have with music often reflect broader sentiments about cultural continuity and change in broadcasting.

This initial uproar may pave the way for further discussions on the importance of signature tunes and their role in establishing a show’s character. As Cuddihy embarks on this new chapter with Liveline, it will be interesting to see how he navigates the expectations of both new and long-time listeners.