First Radio

First Radio: The Unwritten Rules of Site Soundtracks

Makita Jobsite Radio

Before Bluetooth speakers, Spotify playlists, and noise-cancelling headphones, building sites had just one soundtrack — the radio. To keep the peace on-site, we followed an unwritten rule: first radio.

The rule was simple — the first person to arrive and set up their radio picked the station. No debates. No swapping the dial. Just old-school seniority (or a solid alarm clock).

On our sites, that person was always Eddie. He was the most experienced tradie and an early riser. His radio played hit songs from the 60s to 80s, often before sunrise. I didn’t mind the music, but I couldn’t stand competing radios.

Back then, managing site noise mattered. Between saws, drills, and hammers, we didn’t need more chaos. One station at a decent volume was all it took to keep things steady. That’s why “first radio” worked.

How Things Have Changed

Now, it’s all Bluetooth speakers and streaming apps. Everyone’s got a favourite track — and a phone to play it. But to keep things running smoothly, we still follow a few ground rules:

  • Respect the client’s home – Keep volume low, especially indoors or near neighbours.
  • Keep it clean – No explicit lyrics on-site. That’s a hard rule.
  • One sound system at a time – No battling speakers from different rooms or trades.
  • Read the room – Some days need silence more than a soundtrack.

Why First Radio Still Matters

Even with better tech, we reckon “first radio” still matters. It shows respect to the early starter and keeps the site vibe under control.

If you’re first in, make sure your speaker can handle the dust. We like the
Makita Bluetooth Jobsite Radio — loud, tough, and tradie-proof. Just don’t leave it in full sun… or near flying cordless gear.

Here’s a “G-rated” playlist that’s been known to play on our sites:
Spotify Site Mix. Keeps it family friendly, that’s for sure.

At Build It Bro, our soundtrack is part of how we build. Whether it’s an old-school radio or a shared playlist, it should lift the mood — not distract from the job.

Got a “first radio” memory or a favourite site track? Get in touch — we’d love to hear it.