The Maverick Who Revolutionized Radio

The Maverick Who Revolutionized Radio

Gordon McLendon’s Lasting Legacy In the pantheon of radio pioneers, Gordon McLendon stands tall as a true innovator whose influence continues to shape broadcasting decades after his heyday. Known as “the Maverick of Radio,” McLendon’s career spanned the 1950s through the 1970s, leaving an indelible mark on the industry that resonates even in today’s digital age. Born in 1921 in Paris, Texas, McLendon’s journey in radio began modestly with the purchase of KNET in Palestine, Texas in 1946. However, it […]

February 25, 2025 34

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Radio Legends

John David Spangler

JD Spangler: A Trailblazer in Radio Broadcasting The story of John David Spangler—known to listeners and colleagues alike simply as “JD”—is a compelling one, marked by versatility, innovation, and a deep passion for connecting with audiences. Over the course of nearly three decades, Spangler carved a name for himself as a DJ, program director, and industry leader, leaving his imprint on radio stations spanning Illinois, Indiana, and the Mid-South. From his early days in Fort Wayne’s WMEE to his high-profile […]

August 10, 2024 43 2

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Radio Eras

Pittsburgh’s Iconic 13Q Radio

13Q, the beloved former Pittsburgh radio station WKTQ 1320 AM, left an indelible mark on the city’s airwaves from 1973 to 1980. A new podcast revisits the legacy of this iconic station, featuring four former WKTQ personalities sharing their memories and experiences from their time at 13Q. Influence on 13Q’s Success Several key factors contributed to 13Q’s remarkable success and influence during its short but impactful run in the 1970s: Owner Cecil Heftel played a pivotal role by setting the […]

April 25, 2023 711 18 13

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Radio Eras

The Big 8 CKLW

Inside the Powerhouse That Rocked the Radio World In the annals of radio history, few stations have left as indelible a mark as CKLW, “The Big 8.” Broadcasting from Windsor, Ontario, but capturing the hearts of listeners across the Detroit River and beyond, CKLW was a powerhouse that defined an era of radio excellence. As we reflect on this legendary station in 2025, its impact continues to resonate with broadcasters and music lovers alike. The Birth of a Radio […]

March 3, 2023 202 7 5

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Listener Submissions

Aircheck Radio Welcomes the Dave Freeman Collection!

Aircheck Radio is excited to welcome a significant new addition to our ever-expanding archive—the Dave Freeman Collection. This special collection features a series of unscoped airchecks from 66 WNBC New York, including legendary broadcasters Al Brady and Bruce Morrow from the year 1974. A passionate fan of Aircheck Radio, Dave Freeman brings with him these historical airchecks and a lifelong love for radio. Dave’s journey into the world of radio began in 1969 when he was just eleven years old. […]

February 4, 2023 122 22 13

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Radio Eras

The Last Contest” at KCBQ

“The Last Contest” at KCBQ: From Concept to Cultural Phenomenon The magic of The Last Contest at KCBQ was more than a sweepstakes—it was a masterclass in showmanship and creativity, driven by program director Jack McCoy and his talented team. From conception to execution, every detail was designed to captivate the audience’s imagination, immersing them in a thrilling audio experience that blurs the line between fantasy and reality. Jack McCoy: The Visionary Behind The Last Contest KCBQ’s brilliant program director, Jack McCoy, was already […]

January 2, 2023 84 3 10

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Radio History

WEFM 99.5 FM Chicago

WEFM 99.5 FM: The Underdog That Took on Chicago Radio in the Late 1970s "Radio is the theater of the mind; television is the theater of the mindless." — Steve Allen A Station in Transition: From Classical to Contemporary For decades, Chicago’s FM dial was home to WEFM 99.5, a station steeped in tradition. Founded in 1940 by Zenith Radio Corporation, WEFM was among the pioneers of FM radio, broadcasting a steady diet of classical music that catered to Chicago’s […]

January 2, 2023 57 3

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Radio Legends

The Original Superjock

Larry Lujack SuperJock The Original Superjock Larry Lujack In American radio, few personalities have left as indelible a mark as Larry Lujack. With his sardonic wit, distinctive voice, and groundbreaking segments, Lujack redefined the role of the disc jockey, transforming the airwaves into a platform for both entertainment and authenticity. His journey from a small-town boy in Iowa to the revered “Superjock” of Chicago’s radio scene is a testament to talent, resilience, and an unyielding passion for broadcasting. Early Life […]

January 1, 2023 44 4 3

Radio Legends

China Smith… Wow!

China Smith: The Voice That Defined an Era in Radio China Smith, born Wayne Thomas Rorabacher in 1943 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, was a radio personality whose voice and style left an indelible mark on the broadcasting industry. With a career spanning over three decades and multiple major markets, Smith's journey from the Midwest to the bright lights of Los Angeles is a story of reinvention, innovation, and enduring connection with listeners. Smith’s radio career began in 1970 at WGRD in […]

August 11, 2022 14

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