Brian Wise
Brian Wise | |
|---|---|
| Born | Australia |
| Occupation(s) | Broadcaster, music journalist |
| Years active | 1972–present |
| Known for | Hosting Off The Record on 3RRR, founding Rhythms Magazine |
Brian Wise is an Australian broadcaster and music journalist residing in Murrumbeena, Victoria. He is widely recognized for hosting the show Off The Record on the community radio station 3RRR.
Biography
In 1972, Wise was a co-founder of 3MU, the student radio station at Monash University. He later joined Melbourne’s community radio station 3PBS in 1980 and remained there until 1987, the year he started presenting Off The Record on 3RRR.
The program Off The Record debuted in November 1987 and transitioned from a Sunday night timeslot to Saturday mornings in 1989, where it continues to air. The show primarily highlights Americana and roots genres, featuring conversations with both domestic and international musicians.
Observing the absence of a dedicated roots music publication in Melbourne despite its existence in cities like New Orleans, Wise launched Rhythms Magazine in 1992. He initially financed the magazine himself while maintaining other employment. After selling it in 2005, he regained ownership in 2018.
Between 1997 and 2003, Wise served as editor for the Australian version of the digital music magazine Addicted To Noise, which earned national ONYA Awards in consecutive years, 1999 and 2000. Additionally, from 2003 to 2006 during summer seasons, he co-hosted dig on the Radio on ABC Local Radio and contributed content to the ABC's Dig! website.
Wise remains the presenter of his weekly Saturday morning program Off The Record, regarded as one of 3RRR’s standout shows due to his early emphasis on roots music. A condensed one-hour edition is also broadcast weekly across more than 45 stations through Australia's Community Radio Network satellite service.
Outside of broadcasting, Wise has taught screen and media studies at Holmesglen TAFE and has written music critiques for publications including The Sunday Age and The New Daily.
Awards and achievements
- Awarded the Vanguard Award by the Americana Music Association recognizing his commitment to the Americana genre (2018)
- Honored with the Order of Australia for contributions to broadcast media (2021)