Radio Times: Reliving Radio’s Golden Age

Toronto Dial Wars

Toronto’s Top 40 Radio Rivalry of the '60s and '70s It’s a crisp autumn evening in Toronto, sometime in the late 1960s. The CN Tower hasn’t yet pierced the skyline, but the city is buzzing with energy. Teenagers cruise along Yonge Street, their radios blaring the latest hits from either CHUM or CFTR. These two stations, locked in a fierce battle for dominance, are more than just radio frequencies—they’re cultural institutions shaping the musical tastes and daily lives of an […]

October 1, 2022 587 36

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Regional Roundups

San Francisco Airwave Rivalries

San Francisco's Radio Wars of the '60s and '70s by Frankie Butler It’s 1968, and the streets of San Francisco are alive with the countercultural revolution. The Haight-Ashbury district is buzzing with flower children, anti-war protests fill Civic Center Plaza, and the airwaves are ablaze with the sounds of a city in cultural overdrive. From the crackle of AM dials to the emerging clarity of FM stereo, San Francisco’s radio scene is a battleground where stations fight fiercely […]

October 1, 2022 565 59

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Radio History

WEFM Chicago

The Brief Blaze of a Rock Radio Revolution In February 1978, Chicago’s radio dial experienced a seismic shift. WEFM, long known as a bastion of classical music, suddenly flipped to a rock and Top 40 format, sending shockwaves through the city’s vibrant radio landscape. Broadcasting from the John Hancock Center, one of Chicago’s most iconic skyscrapers, WEFM promised a fresh sound and bold energy. It captivated listeners and challenged established stations like WLS-FM and WLUP for a brief but unforgettable […]

July 11, 2021 411 33 10

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DJ Hall of Fame

Super Max

Max Kinkel from CKLW to New York Radio Stardom Max Kinkel, affectionately known as "Super Max," is a name that resonates with radio enthusiasts across North America. With a career that spanned iconic stations like CKLW in Windsor and WCBS-FM in New York, Max’s dynamic voice and magnetic personality made him a beloved figure on the airwaves. But his journey to becoming a radio legend started far from the bustling cities he would later call home. Born and raised in […]

June 13, 2021 678 46 2

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DJ Hall of Fame

Larry Lujack

The Original Superjock 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 and Aspirations Born Larry Lee […]

June 3, 2021 588 56 3

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DJ Hall of Fame

The China Smith

A Radio Legend’s Journey In the golden age of Los Angeles radio, a voice could be more than just a presence—it could define an era. For over three decades, Thomas Wayne Rorabacher, known professionally as China Smith, was one of those voices. His smooth delivery, razor-sharp instincts, and ability to adapt to every format made him a mainstay on Southern California’s airwaves. From rock to jazz, Top 40 to urban contemporary, Smith’s career was a masterclass in versatility and connection. […]

June 2, 2021 649 51 2

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Radio Eras

WMEE: Fort Wayne Radio

How a Fort Wayne Radio Station Became Part of the Family In the heart of Northeast Indiana, where small towns and city life blend into a community built on tradition, one radio station has become a familiar and cherished voice for generations. WMEE, with its rich history and iconic personalities, has been more than just a source of music and news — it has been a companion, a friend, and a vital part of life in Fort Wayne and beyond. […]

May 24, 2021 374 55 3

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Special Features

The Last Contest

“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, […]

April 21, 2021 361 96

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Radio Eras

The Science of Happiness – Exploring Factors for Well-Being

Happiness is both an art and a science, and this article delves into the factors that contribute to overall well-being. Explore the science behind happiness, including the impact of positive psychology, gratitude practices, and the role of social connections. By understanding the factors that influence happiness, individuals can make informed choices to enhance their well-being and lead more fulfilling lives. Aliquam fringilla, tortor ut pellentesque viverra, lorem metus tristique elit, at gravida metus turpis ac ante. Etiam eu erat suscipit, […]

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