Cape Town radio icon Tyrone Paulsen is marking a significant milestone in his career, celebrating 25 years in the industry. His journey from facing rejection to becoming a beloved voice on Heart FM is a testament to his persistence, passion, and the evolution of technology that has shaped his remarkable career.
Paulsen, a presenter, voice-over artist, motor enthusiast, content creator, father, and husband, has become one of the Cape's long-standing radio voices.
The popular host of Heart FM's THB with Tyrone Paulsen, which airs weekends from Friday to Sunday, has firmly cemented himself in the hearts and homes of Capetonians and has even garnered an international following.
In an exclusive interview with the Weekend Argus, Paulsen, now 49, reflects on his silver anniversary in radio as a sweet victory. However, the journey to the big leagues came at a bitter price, with doors of rejection slammed in his face along the way.
In a recent Facebook post, Paulsen shared his thoughts on the challenges he faced early in his career.
“My cousin reminded me recently of how, 27 years ago when I started my radio journey, I was turned down by the radio stations I ended up working at. It made me realise how privileged I am that, 25 years on, I'm still able to work in radio and even live another dream of lending my voice to some of the biggest brands in South Africa. Thank you to those people who continue to support my dreams and those who believe in me to work with them. I'm eternally grateful,” he wrote.
Paulsen's journey began in Mitchell's Plain, where he hosted fake shows on grey electric boxes outside his house, much to the dismay of his neighbours.
Inspired by radio legends such as Dmitri Jegels, Alex Jay, and Martin Bailey, he dreamed of becoming a radio host. However, his aspirations faced numerous hurdles.
“Officially, I tried to get into the real part of radio in 1997 but was unsuccessful. In 1998, I did some community radio stints; however, things only took off in 1999 when I started at the then P4 Radio, which is now Heart FM,” Paulsen recalls.
He vividly remembers the times he was turned down for hopeful opportunities that threatened to crush his dreams.
“I was turned down, even told I wasn't suited for some of the community stations I applied to because I didn't fit their demographic. It was strange, considering they were based in the Cape Flats. I was turned down by the then Radio Good Hope and what is now KFM, even at one point being told I would never work at these stations.”
Despite the rejections, it was the encouragement of his then-girlfriend and now wife, Carmen, that motivated him to keep trying to pursue his radio dream.
“What got me through was Carmen, who believed that I could do it. She motivated me and pushed me to continue, even going as far as getting in contact with someone who knew someone who got me an audition at Fine Music Radio in 1998. That internship helped me grow my skills until I got that break into commercial radio at P4 Radio, thanks to Natano Brache taking a chance on an unknown kid in 1999.”
As technology and social media have evolved, Paulsen, who comes from a different era, has faced the challenge of remaining relevant and keeping up with the trends.
“When I started in radio, CDs were the go-to medium for music, and records and vinyl were taking a back seat. Computers were just slowly being introduced to record audio for adverts and promos. Now everything is digital, which has made things a lot easier. Our research for shows was done on paper; we wrote things down, and everything was planned out more. Now it's digital, with instant access to everything and everyone. It's both a blessing and a curse.”
Paulsen feels privileged to have witnessed the medium change from the end of the analogue era to what it is today.
“Radio is now a more connected medium, and I believe it will remain a part of our lives for a while. I hope to continue being part of it. I wanted to get into radio for that connection with people, the ability to play music that allows them to disconnect for a few minutes from what's happening around them. Music is part of our daily lives; it helps shape some amazing moments, from heartbreaks to funfilled experiences. There's a song for every moment.”
Throughout his career, Paulsen has had the opportunity to meet many incredible personalities, including Will Smith, Mary J. Blige, Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Jazzy Jeff, Stevie Wonder, Eva Longoria, Paul Van Dyk, Paul Oakenfold, Gregor Salto, Ronny Jordan, Pitbull, Scotty Pippen, Kelly Clarkson, and numerous local celebrities.
As he reflects on his journey, Paulsen offers encouragement to aspiring radio personalities.
“I fear that many people who want to pursue a career in radio today are motivated by fame rather than a genuine passion for the medium. For those who want to do it for the love of radio, don't give up when doors close for you. The expansion into the digital connected world has opened up the world of radio for you. Work hard on creating that connection with your listeners.”
As Paulsen celebrates this remarkable milestone, his story serves as an inspiration to many, proving that with determination, passion, and the right support, dreams can indeed come true in the world of radio.
Catch Paulsen on Heart 104.9FM on Friday to Sunday 6pm-10pm.