Shakedown Radio Podcast

Chris Carragher, professionally known as Chris Caggs, is a veteran Australian Radio DJ, Music Programmer, and Podcaster with nearly 30 years in the industry. He is the creator and host of ShakeDown Radio—a globally syndicated mix show blending RnB, Hip Hop, Dance, and EDM. With a career spanning community, commercial, and digital radio, Chris has been a permanent on-air resident across 16 stations and syndicated to over 200 community stations via the Community Radio Network (ComRad Satellite).

ShakeDown Radio is more than a mix show—it’s a legacy. It’s a cultural bridge between genres, generations, and global audiences. Every episode is curated with precision and passion, spotlighting emerging talent, timeless classics, and the pulse of urban and electronic music.

Chris’s journey began in July 1998 when his dream became reality at Pump FM 99.3FM Sydney—Australia’s first Hip Hop & RnB community station. Co-hosting with Mista-C, he helped shape the station’s identity before it evolved into Dance Radio 99.3FM and later Dance FM 94.5FM. These early years laid the foundation for a lifelong commitment to genre-blending programming and audience connection.

Later in 1998, Chris joined DJ-FM 87.6FM, a full-time dance station serving Sydney’s Inner City and CBD. Operated by Roberts Media Group, DJ-FM was a hub for talent and innovation. Chris worked alongside Frank Chiment, Antonio Avati, Joe Avati, Susie Stapleton, Dave Einfield, Andre Waitsman, Joe Corte, Rob Brizzi, and more. The station was backed by sponsors including Central Station Records, Telstra, Carlton & United, Noizenet, Pulse Music, SBA Music, with marketing led by Rebecca Tynan.

From October 1999 to January 2001, Chris hosted weekday breakfast and weekend shows, working at the same radio station as Andrew G (Channel [V], The Bachelor, The Masked Singer). He shared the airwaves with Bessie Bardot, Rene Rivkin, DJ Nino Brown, Georgina Reed, Sam Boutros, Natasha Zuvela (MTV), Yvette Duncan (MTV), Zoe Naylor (MTV), and others—cementing his place among Australia’s most dynamic radio personalities.

In August and September 2000, Groove FM 97.3 Brisbane launched, and Chris hosted the breakfast show while working with Added Flava, Fez Lateef, Adrian Day, Dustin & Anna, Patrick Donohue, Scott Ferris, DJ Kina, and Kristian Hernandez. His programming helped define the station’s sound and connect with Brisbane’s vibrant music scene.

From 1996 to 2006, Chris broadcasted at 2RDJ 88.1FM Sydney’s Inner West, playing Hip Hop, RnB, and Dance. He collaborated with MC Maurice, DJ Ales K (host of Klubbed Up), DJ Fly Girl Tee, Ms Hennessey, Lorraine Alex, and others. Between 2001 and 2003, he hosted Thursday Flavours Hip Hop & RnB and filled in for Soulscope with Georgina Reed—continuing his commitment to soulful storytelling and genre diversity.

ShakeDown Radio has aired on a wide range of stations nationwide

• Starter FM (Sydney)
• MixxBosses Radio (Sydney)
• Urban Movement Radio (Brisbane)
• Mix It Up Radio (Brisbane)
• Tune 1 Radio (Perth)
• Liquid Radio (Sunshine Coast)
• V1Radio (Melbourne)
• OZZ Mixx Dance Radio (Melbourne)
• Str8OUT Radio (Melbourne)
• 4Play FM (Queensland)
• Kool FM 98.3FM (North Queensland)
• Pump FM 99.3FM {Sydney}
• DJ-FM 87.6FM (Sydney CBD}
• Groove FM 97.3 (Brisbane)
• Groove FM 94.FM & 96.9 (Sydney)
• 2NSB FM 99.3 Northside Radio (Sydney)
• 2RDJ 88.1FM (Sydney)

Chris’s influence extends beyond the airwaves. He’s been featured in numerous magazines, newsletters, and media platforms that have chronicled his journey and celebrated his contributions to Australian radio and music culture:

• Request Magazine
• Radio Info Newsletter
• The Place Magazine (North Queensland)
• Player FM
• The Music Network
• Groove ON MEDIA
• Revolver Mag
• Three-D World Magazine (Sydney)
• Scene Magazine (Brisbane)
• The Queensland Independent
• North Shore Times

ShakeDown Radio has earned editorial recognition from major platforms. It has been featured multiple times by Apple Podcasts in the Music category, a testament to its quality, consistency, and cultural relevance. Most recently, the Amazon Music Podcasts editorial team has hand-selected ShakeDown Radio to be featured on their front page on June 30, 2025—an honor they’ve awarded in the past, reaffirming the show’s global appeal.

Chris’s programming style is rooted in authenticity, rhythm, and connection. He blends classic RnB with cutting-edge EDM, celebrates underground Hip Hop alongside mainstream hits, and curates each episode with the listener’s journey in mind. ShakeDown Radio is not just a playlist—it’s a narrative.

Listeners tuning in can expect:

• Exclusive interviews with artists, DJs, and producers
• Curated sets that span decades and continents
• Nostalgic throwbacks and fresh releases
• Commentary on music trends, culture, and community
• A platform that uplifts voices and bridges genres

Chris’s legacy is built on resilience, innovation, and generosity. He’s known for supporting emerging talent, mentoring fellow broadcasters, and championing diversity in music. His work has helped shape the soundscape of Australian radio and continues to influence audiences worldwide.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new listener, ShakeDown Radio offers a sonic experience that’s rich, inclusive, and unforgettable. It’s a celebration of rhythm, culture, and connection—brought to you by one of Australia’s most enduring voices in radio.

Follow ShakeDown Radio across platforms and join the global community of listeners who tune in for the vibe, the stories, and the music that moves us all