This was the defining feature of the best MP3 player I ever owned. (I believe it was a Sanyo Sansa.) I wound up using it way more than the MP3 functionality. I was spoiled, living in NYC at the time, but there was/still is so much good content out there, if you spend the time to look (college, community, pirate, etc.).

It's depressing that such functionality is missing from modern devices. Entertainment value aside, it can be a lifeline in times of crisis/emergencies.