NOTES:

The definitive source for world band listening "Passport to World Band Radio" has been discontinued.
You may still find 2008 copies that are still pretty current.

With the advent of the internet and satellite audio. The need in more modernized for shortwave service has diminished.
This is not true for "third-world" contries such as northern Africa, Southern Asia, Indonesia and India. Where the commodities and government mechanisms we enjoy are not in place. Shortwave there is invaluable!
There is still much to catch on the air-waves for the SWL (Short Wave Listener).

Magazine periodicals such as Popular Communications and Monitoring Times are great up to date sources for info on broadcast stations, frequencies and times.

PIRATE RADIO

It is NOT illegal in the US to listen to pirate radio broadcasts.
Infact, the FCC protects your rights to listen to whatever you want on your shortwave within part 15 rules, and as long as it's not cell-phone traffic or decryption of secure messages.

There's some pretty interesting stuff below the 40m band especially the pirate broadcasters.

Pirates broadcast in defiance of federal and local laws. They take pride in their abilities and knowlege as a ham would, except without recognizing the authority of the FCC. However - they do so at their own risk.
Occasionally, a pirate operator will often be found by the FCC and given steep fines and even imprisionment, adding an element of excitement and risk to thier activities.  But the enforement mostly center's around the FM band pirates that are mostly into the practice for local activism and mischief.
The pirates on shortwave are generally more seasoned, have peak technical expertise and truly enjoy their craft for the sake of the craft itself.
Their programming mostly focuses on entertainment with witty commentary.

Just tune the shortwave receiver to (around) 6925 khz in USB or AM any given evening and take a listen!

FRN(Free Radio Network) A*C*E Logs VINES
Devoted to the lively discussion and reporting of shortwave pirate broadcasting.

Shortwave Pirate Info
Serving the pirate shortwave radio community. News, info and links.