Thursday, December 27, 2012

NEW YEAR'S EVE WITH WOLFMAN JACK !

      

TO ALL MY KAAY FRIENDS: 
 WHILE I WAS On-The-Air on JUKE BOX 96 Radio in St. Louis on New Year's Eve, 1993, I received a surprise phone call from my old friend the Legendary WOLFMAN JACK !

I had no idea that The Wolfman was going to do this...it took me completely by surprise.  I can't really tell you how grateful I was for his kind gesture, and if I sound excited on this recording it's because I truly was !

This piece of Audio History had been locked-up in my Audio Archives for all these years, but I wanted to share it with all of you so that you could once again hear his voice, and so that I could fittingly pay Tribute to this wonderful, truly professional, R&R Radio Icon:  My Friend, WOLFMAN JACK.

ALSO, I've added some of my personal thoughts & remembrances of this Radio Legend & Hall Of Famer on this same Page.  PLUS, if you listen closely, you can "CLAP FOR THE WOLFMAN"  with the Guess Who !!

READY ? OKAY, THEN JUST Click-On This Link http://www.legends.thewwbc.net/gpage25.html and re-live a part Rock & Roll Radio History on "New Year's Eve, 1993, With Wolfman Jack" !

Thanks again to each & everyone...and I hope 2013 is a FANTASTIC year for you all !

Your friend,

Jonnie King   www.jonnieking.net 

.
 

Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Benefit For Bill Johnston, Co-Founder Of A Warehouse


Bill Johnston, founding partner of A Warehouse, was diagnosed with throat cancer in January 2012.  There will be a benefit on his behalf on January 10, 2013, at The Joy Theater, 1200 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA; doors open at 6PM Central, with a silent auction, show begins at 7PM Central.  Tickets are $35 on Ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000.  If you cannot make the benefit, contributions can be sent to: Benefit for Bill Johnston, 2213 General Pershing Street, New Orleans, LA 70115.  For additional information, contact Louie Duet at louieduet@gmail.com

In a telephone conversation with Bob Wahl (http://www.blackstrat.net/), there were a few seats available.  Folks, this looks like a BLOWOUT!  Bob also told me that Bill was the guy who called the radio stations and booked and paid for the advertisements...remember all those great ads on Beaker Street?

There will be an all-star line-up and many fabulous items to be auctioned off by silent auction.

If anyone wishes, I can forward the e-mail Bob Wahl sent me, as there are many other details.

By the way, see this link for additional information regarding a memorial for A Warehouse: http://www.fox8live.com/story/20161644/effort-to-commemorate-the-warehouse-concert-venue-gears-up#.UM6bSHykhKc.email  

Bill Johnston (along with Don Fox) brought a great thing to New Orleans with A Warehouse and many bands came there NOT for the money, but to play for the people and have a great time.  Let's see if we can help Bill in his fight against cancer.

Thank you, Bob Wahl, for all your efforts, and to Bill Johnston for A Warehouse, and for being friends of Mighty 1090 KAAY Blogspot!  And thank everyone for helping Bill Johnston....

Bud Stacey (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Tuesday, December 25, 2012

MY KAAY CHRISTMAS IN ENGLAND !


Since my Great-Grandparents on my Dad's side came from Ireland & England, and due to my acting for many years and having great insight into the works of Shakespeare, I've always wanted to travel to England & Ireland.  What better way to spend Christmas than in the land of  Dicken's "Christmas Carol" ?

Which brings me to 1969 and my working at KAAY:

 I began at the Mighty 1090 on April 21st and, being single, occasionally found some nice girls to date.  But, in September of that year I saw a show at the Arkansas Art Center and was very impressed by one of the very attractive dancers in the show.

I found out from the program that the girl's name was Kerry, and sometime after the show got in contact with her and - since the feeling was mutual - we began dating in October...starting the beginning of a lengthy relationship.  But one of the things that really entranced me was that Kerry was from England !   She had actually grown up there, and later took up residence in Little Rock.

Since the Holidays were upon us, she asked me to spend Christmas with her and her family to which I agreed, but had to get the approval of the PD (Barry Wood) & Pat Walsh, GM.  They both gave their blessing, travel arrangements were made, and on Christmas Morning, 1969, Kerry & I headed for England to join her wonderful family for a most-unimaginable feast, and a day to remember...the first of many I would spend there.

How could we do it all in one day ?  Well, it was only about 26 miles from where we lived in Little Rock to England...England, Arkansas.  But it WAS England !

God Bless Us, Everyone, and especially Kerry...wherever you are.

Jonnie King  http.www.jonnieking.net

Monday, December 17, 2012

THE CHRISTMAS & HOLIDAY FILM LIST FOR 2012 !


                                       
                           
________________________________________________________
  MY 2012 LIST OF CHRISTMAS & HOLIDAY FILM CLASSICS IS READY !
                             
SOME NEW ADDS TO THE "Extras" List this year...and ALL are worth a viewing between now and the end of the year !

Happy Holiday viewing to all of my Big K Friends...and thanks for all of your kind comments, and support of my Concept & Version of "The Breakfast Serial" since I began the Series in 1973 !

A very Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year to each and everyone!

Ready ?   Okay, Simply Click-On This Link  and it will take you right there!


Jonnie King, 2012

Thursday, December 13, 2012

KAAY, Wayne Moss, September 3, 1973 part 1

Another in our series of Wayne Moss airchecks!  Herewith Greg Barman's comments:

"Sept. 3, 1973: Wayne Moss, 10:07-11:34am, in two parts, not continuous. Part 1 is mostly untelescoped; Part 2 is partially telescoped. Great quality; must have been a radio with a good high-end AM section. Beaker Street promos for O'Brian. Newsguy is Michael O'Sullivan." 


(or download here)
 
Again, many thanks to Wayne Moss for his donation of fine historical audio; to Greg Barman for faithfully restoring and transferring said audio to digital; and to Dave S. for his computer know-how to bring this wonderful audio to the blog!
 
Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Monday, December 10, 2012

New A Warehouse Tribute CD Available!

For you dedicated late-night Beaker Street listeners who remember those Warehouse commercials, all the way from New Orleans...and for those of you who actually got to attend concerts at A Warehouse...now, a tribute CD is available!  See the link below:

http://app.e2ma.net/app2/campaigns/archived/1354864/08d0cd293d2af4f93a0d96e1930a59e7/



I plan on trying to get one for a buddy of mine, who attended Warehouse concerts, for Christmas.  You should, too!

And, in the meantime, please visit A Warehouse's website...there's always something going on!

http://www.blackstrat.net/

Be sure to e-mail Bobby Wahl at his link on the website & tell him I sent you!  And how much you enjoy his website, as well....

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)


Wednesday, December 5, 2012

...THE FALL OF 1971 !

 FALL FUN ON THE MIGHTY 1090 / KAAY IN LITTLE ROCK !  Lots of neat stuff happening in that beautiful Fall of 1971: Razorback Football was super-hot, James Bond's "Diamonds Are Forever" was in theatre's everywhere,  "Columbo", and, "The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour"  debuted on TV, William Peter Blatty's soon-to-be-classic volume "The Exorcist" was published, and Richard Nixon was the President of the United States.

This Page has plenty of pix & info on it, and you'll even get to see the Big K "Hogmobile" !  I remember this being a truly fun night On-The-Air for me...hope you enjoy this Aircheck as much as I did doing it !!   Wanna hear it right now ?   Okay, just Click-On Here,  listen & enjoy !!

ALL THE BEST TO YOU FOR THE SEASON !
Jonnie King

Monday, December 3, 2012

"Ladies And Gentlemen: Wayne Moss! K-A-A-Y, Little Rock...."


THE MAN, THE MYTH, THE LEGEND!  WAYNE MOSS, 1970-1971!!!!

In my book: certainly The Man!  His name takes on mythical proportions.  And he will always and ever be one of the legendary people of KAAY!

Wayne sent along this studio picture to share with you, dear visitor.  And what a handsome picture it is!  You have seen studio pictures like this of other deejays from the past here on the blog.  This is the first- and only- one like it I have seen of Wayne Moss.

I must say folks that, when I call Wayne, that voice of his is still strong and authoritative; I revel in the fact that I can still talk to one of KAAY's living legends and listen to his voice, very much as it was back in the day.  It was a thrill for me to be able to call him on the phone and it still thrills me today to be able to talk with him (when my wife allows me to make long-distance calls)!

Wayne, please allow me to thank you, both on the behalf of the blog visitors and myself, for sharing all you do with us!  What wonderful, historical gifts you gave for us to enjoy!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Doug Virden's KAAY Mustang!


As per Doug: "Found this at a garage sale about 5 years ago. It is very rare so I bought it. It is a '65 or '66 Mustang fastback."

Be sure to visit the KAAY Facebook page, as well...there's a lot of stuff mirrored there:

http://www.facebook.com/groups/198469254312/

Thank you, Doug!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Monday, November 26, 2012

"Turkeys Can Fly?"

I forgot about this until Dave Montgomery reminded me...and I'm sorry I didn't get it on until now...enjoy!

“AS GOD IS MY WITNESS, I THOUGHT TURKEYS COULD FLY!”

http://www.kewego.com/video/iLyROoafYtDe.html

Happy Thanksgiving all!

DM



Nice Cuban Letter From 1974


As far as I know, this is the last of the letters Wayne Moss sent to share for you to enjoy.

These letters have been but a very tiny representation of what KAAY received; it is sure that many probably never made it to a file, or museum, or archive, or anywhere else safe, after they were read.  For those who worked (should I say that word, since so many had FUN at KAAY?) the night shifts, from the time that great figure-eight signal got switched on in the evening, until it was switched off in the morning, we all say "Thank you!", from all those places mentioned by Gary Gears ("Hello QSLers!...").  Cuba, Nicaragua, Panama, Bahamas, United States, Canada, England- the list is so long and KAAY's influence was so LARGE!  There is no way to fully comprehend how many people heard the station!  Clyde Clifford, Don Payne, Stuart (McRae), Eric Thomas, Johnny King, Don Marcus, David B. Treadway, Mark Larsen and many, many more night-time deejays we love, and loved listening to, made up this wonderful era.  May their voices echo forever on the Skywave (as David B. called it!).

With the exception of a couple of empty envelopes that didn't contain their original letters, that's all we have to offer from Wayne Moss.  A tip o' the hat to you, Wayne, for sharing this wonderful packet of history!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Thursday, November 22, 2012

Happy Thanksgiving, All!

This bears remembering and listening to once again...in my opinion, it is timeless:

http://mighty1090kaay.blogspot.com/2010/11/this-is-thanksgiving-1962.html

Once again, have a safe and fulfilling Thanksgiving day...help and serve others, spend time with family members who might not otherwise be here next year, renew relationships with dear ones where you can..."because you may not have that chance tomorrow...."


Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

"Something Higher Than Me"

Folks, I was pleased to receive from Vicki Worthington, a friend of this blog, the book Nick St. John wrote of himself regarding some life experiences while a deejay (and other things) in the southeast Texas markets.

http://www.somethinghigherthanme.com/

Vicki pointed out the tie we have with Texas through George J. Jennings, who worked in Texas after leaving KAAY and Arkansas, and was very influential in getting Clear Channel in those markets.  I have contacted WOAI, the last station he worked with, to get them to make mention of George and his contributions to the industry there, but there seems to be some resistance- this was confirmed by blog friend Paul Kirby, who checks in now and again- but that's all we'll say about it.

OK, off that rabbit trail...the proceeds from Nick St. John's book go to support Alcoholics Anonymous and Club 12; it is a pretty good read and I've read it a couple of times over.  Sad to say, Nick is no longer with us, but through his book he gives a very humbling view of his life, from the highs to lows and back again.

Buy the book, support the cause of helping someone out of their addiction...many thanks to Vicki Worthington for her work in getting Nick's book to market and to Paul Kirby for his promotion of same.

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Monday, November 19, 2012

A Quick Note From Cuba


Here is a quick note from a listener in Cuba from 1976, again offered by Wayne Moss for the blog.  I can't stop thinking about how we took/take for granted the ability and opportunity and the FREEDOM to listen to stations anywhere we darn well please.

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Long DX Letter From Cuba


This letter, another from 1973, is from an artist whose identity shall also be kept secret, per Wayne Moss' wishes.  It is a very detailed letter from a dedicated listener.  I'll let it speak for itself....

Thank you, Wayne!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Sunday, November 11, 2012

Veteran's Day


All gave some...but some gave all....

Please thank a verteran, not only today, but EVERY day of the year when you meet them.

I cannot begin to express my gratitude to those who served...nonetheless, THANK YOU!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

KAAY Wayne Moss, August 16, 1973, Part 2

Compliments of The Man Himself, Wayne Moss!  This is Part 2 of the 10:35-11:35 AM broadcast, again, restored from tape by Greg Barman.


(or download here)
 
Thanks to Dave S. for his awesome computer archive work and linkage!  And to Greg for technical support and to Wayne for sharing!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Monday, November 5, 2012

DX Letter From Rodolfo


Here is a letter from Nicaragua from April of 1971.  The Air Mail envelope was decorated colorfully with great stamps, so I wanted to include it, as well.

This is yet another letter donated by Wayne Moss for the blog; yet another testamony of KAAY's great night-time signal...thanks, Wayne!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Friday, November 2, 2012

KAAY Wayne Moss August 16, 1973 Part 1

From The Man Himself, announced by Gary Gears, here's Wayne Moss!  Again, from Wayne's collection and carefully restored by Greg Barman, in Greg's words: "Wayne Moss, 10:35am-11:35am, in two parts. [This is Part 1.) Untelescoped, except for a break in the middle. Great quality. I'm glad that Wayne likes to announce the date in his shows! Note the Allman Bros. concerts spot, with tickets only $6!"

What more can you say?  And due to Dave S. and his dedication to this blog, he has archived it for your enjoyment!


(or download here)

What wonderful memories...my thanks to Greg, Dave and Wayne for more great memories!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)


Thursday, November 1, 2012

Letter From Havana To KAAY!


As usual, this letter, and all letters from Cuba has been edited for security reasons, as per Wayne Moss, the contributor of these wonderful pieces of history!

We can see that this listener mentioned that "...many Cubans listen...", which we've seen by the letters Wayne has donated for the blog.

Thank you, Wayne!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Wednesday, October 31, 2012

"Clap For The Wolfman!" The Guess Who

Wolfman Jack had been affiliated with radio stations all over the country, KAAY included.  Dave Montgomery sent in this link for us to enjoy:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BIr4To3EzK8


And just in time for Halloween, too!  Thanks, Dave!


Friday, October 26, 2012




ONCE AGAIN IT'S THE FALL SEASON, my favorite time of the year ! And it brings with it that mysterious, haunting, Holiday: HALLOWEEN !                        
SO, FOR A SPECIAL GROUP OF HALLOWEEN SURPRISES, That I've Produced Just For You ! 
It's the "JONNIE KING HALLOWEEN SPECIAL" that includes: Movies, Music, Radio & TV... Complete With Ghosts, Goblins, and, Things That Go "BUMP" In the Night !


Don't look for a lot of "common" films that you may see almost every year on TV...there are a few of those, BUT most of my List covers some eclectic, esoteric, films that you might just have to try and find. Some of 'em are THAT RARE ! And, that's the good news because they'll be fresh viewing for you, your family, and your friends.

Ghosts, Goblins, Witches, Vampires, Werewolves, Mummies, and other assorted weird, strange creatures are waiting for you in my Special "HALLOWEEN FILM RARITIES FOR 2012". AND, once you've discovered the List for yourself, be sure you pass it on to your friends...but, make sure their heart can take it ! You see, through the years we've had reports of...well, that's a subject for another time.

BUT WAIT...THAT'S NOT ALL ! I'VE EXPANDED THE CONCEPT INTO: "THE ULTIMATE HALLOWEEN SPECIAL" ! It's a Complete Package that includes, not only Movies, but, Music, Radio & TV !

Over 200 Hours of work went into this Special Production, and I sincerely hope you'll enjoy it...

HERE'S WHAT YOU'LL FIND:

1. Movies: "Halloween Film Rarities For 2012"

2. Radio: From "THE BREAKFAST SERIAL"...The "Ozzie & Harriet" Show: "Halloween, 1948"

3. TV: "The Munsters": "Hot Rod Herman"...The "King Of The Kustomizers", GEORGE BARRIS, tells the story of the "Munster's Koach" & the "Drag-U-La" Cars, and raced 'em in the show.

4. Music: My Custom Production of two Halloween Classics:
"Monster Mash" & "The Haunted House" with an Introduction by "Dracula" himself...BELA LUGOSI !

HERE'S THE LINK WHERE IT ALL BEGINS:
http://www.serial.thewwbc.net/gpage2.html

BONUS...

If you've ever seen the iconic "PLAN 9 FROM OUTER SPACE", or, Tim Burton's Oscar Winning "ED WOOD", you've seen "THE AMAZING CRISWELL" ! Cris Introduces and narrates "Plan 9" and has gained World-Wide popularity from it. BUT, he was much more than that:

He had his own TV Show in L.A. for years, his "Criswell Predicts" Column was in over 300 Newspapers & Magazines, and, his Radio Show of the same name was on over 85 Stations !

He was a super-showman appearing on the Jack Paar Show, The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, The Merv Griffin Show, The Art Linkletter Show, weekly personal appearances througout the country, etc. He was a consumate Pro. He was also my friend, and for years, I've always dedicated my "Halloween Film Rarities" List to him.

Now, due to many questions about Criswell, and that dedication, I've created a Special Tribute page to him...and you'll find out how our lives connected with each others, and our friendship began.

I know you will enjoy the Info, the Rare Pix, my memories of Cris...and the "Old Hollywood" that he and I once lived in.

For "THE AMAZING CRISWELL" TRIBUTE...Simply Click-On This Link And You're There:
http://www.jonnieking.net/gpage29.html

AND, YES !   THERE IS A "CRISWELL/KAAY" CONNECTION THAT YOU WILL LOVE !!

My thanks to all...stay safe, well, and, Monster-Free till Nov. 1st. ! ENJOY !!

JK www.jonnieking.net




Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Letter From Daisy of Puerto Rico To KAAY


This letter must have been translated by someone at the station, or affiliated with KAAY- Wayne Moss sent both to me for inclusion to the blog.  Another dedicated listener who took the time to bear the expense of international mailing to express her gratitude to KAAY for broadcasting to her nation!  Remember those maps of KAAY's signal we've posted here before?

Thanks again, Wayne!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

La Habana Letter To KAAY


This listener had written two almost identical letters at dates close to one another, so I picked the better-written version.  It was also the most detailed.  Very similar to what we call a reception report!

Thanks again to Wayne Moss for sharing this letter for the blog!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Bob Robbins, KAAY, May 8, 1972!

Courtesy of Wayne Moss' collection, here is Bob Robbins!  Wayne sent us several tapes that Greg Barman was able to lovingly, tenderly transpose to digital; Dave Schmidt loaded the audio to our archive and here you go!

Mostly unscoped, please enjoy this tasty bit of aural history, in the 2-3pm hour, with full newscast from Mitch Michaels, compliments of Wayne Moss!  Listen in particular to the commercials; hear that reverb?  I'll bet that's the same reverb board we showed you on my trip in April 2011!


(or download here)

Many thanks to Wayne, Greg and Dave for bringing this to you, dear visitor!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Thursday, October 11, 2012

Remember Listening To The Rolling Stones On KAAY?

Does this make you feel OLD, or YOUNG !!??

The Rolling Stones will indeed play 50th anniversary concerts. And I am told they will go on sale this weekend–maybe as soon as Friday. Ticketmaster will handle the sales. All hell is going to break loose, too.

It’s not so much that they’re still touring, it’s that they’re still freaking alive!

THEN:

  NOW:  
 





Hat Tip: http://www.dailypundit.com/


Dave M.

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Letter From Panama!


This letter, sent in April of 1973, came in the type of Air Mail envelope I mentioned previously.  The paper, although blue, was also very thin, although not the aforementioned "onion paper".

Once again, KAAY invaded the borders of a friendly country with its wonderful signal, replete with great programming and music!  I can hear Gary Gears saying, "Greetings, QSLers!" and mentioning Panama in the line-up....


What a voice- and what a station, KAAY!  Thanks to Wayne Moss for sending this letter in for the blog!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Monday, October 8, 2012

Eric Thomas On KMJX 1985

Fritze Prentice sent us some airchecks and this nice email:

"This goes along with the Eric Thomas thread on the Mighty1090 blog. I have a couple of scoped airchecks of Eric Thomas after he left KAAY of him at Magic 105 (KMJX 105.1 Conway/Little Rock), recorded on-air near Star City AR (where I grew up, which was remarkable since KMJX/Magic 105 had a marginal signal in upper Southern AR in those days--likely tropo enhacement) in the late Summer/early fall of 1985 (undated but a mention of Monday Night Football is on one of them--not sure of pre or regular season). The first one is a legal ID for KMJX and the second has more of him speaking. Nighttime jocks then at Magic 105 (KMJX) didn't do much banter, it was mostly music but it was live and local in the pre-Clear Channel(tm) days."

Here are Fritze's airchecks of former KAAY deejay Eric Thomas:


(or download here)


(or download here)


Thank you, Fritze!  And thanks to Dave S. for linking the audio for us!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)


Thursday, October 4, 2012

Letter From Cuban Student

Thirty-nine years ago today, a Cuban student wrote to KAAY, regarding Beaker Street.  This listener heard "the underground music" daily.  What dedication...I can't even remember what I was doing on this date 1973, except that I was about to turn 15 years old in a few days and I was about to get my learners permit to drive.  I'll bet, with sports and studies, I wasn't staying up too late on weekday nights to listen.  But this student found the time and inclination to do so!

Thank you, Wayne Moss, for donating this letter for the blog!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

KAAY Bob Robbins & O'Brian With Beaker Street, October 3, 1973!

Another offering from The Wayne Moss Collection...here's Bob Robbins in the half hour leading up to O'Brian and Beaker Street!  "O'Brian" was (and still is!) a friend of "Steve Scott" (Steve Morris) from that era and has been mentioned here before.  "O'Brian's" name is Mike Verdicchio, who now runs a number of very successful businesses today.

We're pleased to have both of these personalities, but ever more so for "O'Brian", because he was one of the links we were missing in the Beaker Street line-up.

Again, Greg Barman lovingly, carefully coaxed the tape through the machine to dub this over to digital format; Dave S. faithfully loaded it onto the archives for posting here, for you to enjoy, dear visitor!

Per Greg:  "Bob Robbins starting at 10:30pm, leading up to Beaker Street and 'some of that dope smokin kind of music', in Robbins's words. Then, 'Impact', a public-affairs program. Finally, Beaker Street with O'Brian, starting off with music from the Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Joe Walsh, and War." 


(or download here)

I must mention here that, to the best of my recollection, several of the tapes came to us broken or had come loose from the leader; Greg Barman, having all the goods and abilities, spliced everything back together to preserve this great history.  Thank you, Greg!

And thank you Dave S. for your computer skills to bring this audio to the blog; and most of all, thanks to Wayne Moss for sharing!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Saturday, September 29, 2012

KAAY Eric Thomas, Sept. 27, 1981 (Pt. 2)

Thanks to Russell Wells and his vast collection, here is another Eric Thomas aircheck! This is the PM drivetime slot, and it is 'scoped...but enjoyable, nonetheless.


(or download here)

Thanks again to Russell and Dave S. for bringing this audio to you!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Eric Thomas, KAAY, September 27, 1981

Here is Eric Thomas again, working the graveyard shift!  First time heard here was 12:08 Sunday morning.  Did you hear that phone number for those requests?  "Your favorites as close as 433-0059, area code 501".  As before, 'scoped, from the studio...but still enjoyable!

If some of you listeners may or may not know, many deejays made recordings of themselves, to constantly market themselves to prospective employers and to listen to themselves, to constantly improve their "delivery".  Many of the deejays here were very critical of how well they sounded to the public and constantly worked on their voices and their delivery.  You can tell a quality professional in how he or she presents himself or herself- the work shows!


(or download here)

Once again, my hearty thanks to Dave S. for ALL his hard work here, and to Russell Wells for his audio offerings- despite my constant research and questions to both!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Another Cuban Letter


Here we are, celebrating September 2012 with a letter which was written forty-two years ago!  Thanks to Wayne Moss, once again, for this piece of history.

Once again, dedication to KAAY outside our borders is exhibited....

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Monday, September 24, 2012

Barry Mac: A Few Words About The KAAY 50th Birthday Party

I started out writing a little bit more formally about this event that transpired at The Oyster Bar party room on Friday, September 14th, but ended up scrapping that draft and going with something a little more informal. After all, it’s radio!



My immediate concern that evening was that there had been a couple of torrential downpours of rain, and I thought this might keep a few people away. And indeed, there were at least half a dozen no-shows that stood out. But my main concern was Sonny Martin and his wife driving in from Searcy, which is about an hour northeast of Little Rock. Fortunately, they drove in a bit earlier in the afternoon, and were already at our venue by the time I showed up at 6:00. And then there were more – Charlie Scarbrough, Jay (Elliott) Brentlinger, Bob Robbins, Stuart McRae, Mark Wallace, Tom Wood, and Mr. Beaker Street himself, Clyde Clifford. All of them long time radio professionals, and with the exception of Tom Wood (for over 30 years a Little Rock broadcaster himself), all of them with a very direct connection to KAAY.



Rex Nelson was our guest speaker, and was, in fact, the reason that I moved this event from September 7th to September 14th. Rex is a great speaker and is so exceptionally enthusiastic about all things historical in Arkansas, and I couldn’t think of anyone more qualified to give an opening introduction. I especially loved his story about listening to KAAY Farm Director Marvin Vines back in the ‘70s, as Marvin would talk of “barrels and gilds” and such, and even though Rex had no idea what the hell that was, he’d keep on listening anyway! And the reason? Well, it was AM 1090, KAAY, and that was reason enough.



Our other speakers, excluding yours truly as a kind of host for the night, were Bob Robbins, Sonny Martin, and Clyde Clifford. As much as I wanted a number of other former KAAY broadcasters to be in attendance, this was probably the hat trick, the trifecta, the three most significant, in terms of longevity and lasting impact on the glory years of KAAY. I introduced Bob after Rex finished his opening remarks, but within probably five minutes, Bob brought Sonny Martin up, and together they talked about those glory years, the late ‘60s to the late ‘70s, from George Jennings’ hiring of Sonny to lawnmower racing contests to the various personnel they worked with to their late General Manager Pat Walsh. The stories flowed together seamlessly. And through it all, as Bob put it, the reason it worked wasn’t just because it was a 50,000 watt blowtorch. It was because of the sense of family at the station, the true closeness and affection that everyone felt for each other.



And then came Clyde Clifford. Clyde, like Bob and Sonny before him, talked of the camaraderie amongst his co-workers, and how it all started with him in the middle of a pasture in a transmitter building several miles south of Little Rock, and within a year, it was a cultural phenomenon, with communications coming in from Canada to Florida. And to top off the night, after acknowledging the passing of several former KAAY jocks, I ran a couple of three minute montages of commercials from years past – five to fifteen second snippets from various announcers, including our three primary speakers for the night. Oh yeah, and I had to throw in a national ad that featured June Carter Cash for Snowdrift shortening. It was just too good to pass up.



And with that, we closed out the evening with a little more food, a little more drink, and a number of thank yous and goodbyes. And I’d like to give my thanks to the approximately 30 people who were there. I really wish it could’ve been more, but it was quite a treat for the 30 who did show up. And if you’re reading this, I wish you could’ve been there, too. A wish that I’d be fairly certain you share with me.



Maybe next time…



Friday, September 21, 2012

50th KAAY Reunion Lauded

(Folks, Guy Lancaster of the Central Arkansas Library System sent this link along- please enjoy!  Bud S.)

"Hey Bud,

Hope you’re doing well and you got some cooler temperatures down there!

Just wanted to pass this along, in case you hadn’t yet seen it:

http://www.rexnelsonsouthernfried.com/?p=4396.

Take care,

Guy

Guy Lancaster
Editor, Encyclopedia of Arkansas History & Culture
Central Arkansas Library System
100 Rock Street
Little Rock, AR 72201"



Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Letter From Paul Kauffman, Costa Rica


I have been told, and read, that Costa Rica is one of the more American-friendly nations in our hemisphere- that living there is pretty easy these days and that they have no overly-restrictive laws.  Apparently, KAAY's signals had no problem with their Border Patrol or immigration laws, either!!!

Thanks to Wayne Moss for this, and many more letters- more to come!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Monday, September 10, 2012

Eric Thomas, September 6, 1981 Drive-Time!

We'd had a previous post with Eric Thomas working the graveyard shift on this date- well, here he is, back again on the same day (Sunday), this time in the afternoon drive-time!  This is one versatile-- and tireless-- dude!

Another 'scoped audio clip from the studio, obviously, but great memories, nonetheless!  The movie "Continental Divide" with John Belushi is advertised.  Eric continually mentioned to be careful, with all the crazy people out on the road for the Labor Day Weekend.


(or download here)

Where were you thirty-one years ago?  Groovin' on great music in the warm sunshine, I hope!

Thanks again to Russell Wells for more great audio from his collection, and to Dave S. for his great audio help, so we can enjoy this wonderful history!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Sunday, September 9, 2012

45 YEARS...AND COUNTING !

MY FIRST DAY ON THE AIR WAS SEPTEMBER 10, 1967...45 years IS a long time !

But. I want to Celebrate by honoring two of my closest friends who were there with me before I ever became the "me" that you know today.

My friends DON PIETROMONACO (KXOK's Johnny Rabbitt) and GAYLE McCORMICK (Singer of the R&R Classic "Baby It's You") were two of the BEST !

 

Don was one of St. Louis', and the countries, leading Air Personalities; Gayle was a Superstar whose humble beginnings in St. Louis led to National & International fame as a recording artist: with A Group Called Smith, and, later, as a solo artist.

Don, Gayle, and, myself were linked together, personally & professionally.  In fact,  with Gayle & I there is a KAAY CONNECTION that you will read about in my Tribute to her.  

You'll also see how her career and mine ran side-by-side from our time in Rabbitt's "Bat Cave" in St. Louis, to Hollywood for Gayle, and Detroit for me...all within a fast-tracked 5 year period !

These stories are a History lesson in Radio in the 60's & 70's, Music changes during that same time period, a Chronological History of both Gayle & myself...showing how the link was indelibly forged, and that Don was the catylist for the THREE of us.

You'll also learn of the mystical, magical, event that caused me to write the Tributes that you'll read...and no the were not based on "coincidence".

Gayle's Tribute Section was a massive undertaking that required 10 days and 60 hours worth of work...but I was there from the beginning, and my first-hand memories of all the events documented needed to be written, so neither Gayle, nor Don, will ever be forgotten.  I loved them both...they were the truest friends you could imagine.

Thank you, each and everyone for FORTY-FIVE FANTASTIC YEARS !  

(You will love the King-KAAY-McCormick Connection Story...it helped "put us on the map Nationally"  !)

Here's Gayle's Link:  http://www.jonnieking.net/gpage28.html
(Don's is at the Bottom of Gayle's Page !)

My humble thanks,

Jonnie

Thursday, September 6, 2012

Eric Thomas, KAAY, September 6, 1981

Eric Thomas seems to be everywhere!  Here he is on the "graveyard shift".  The first time mentioned was "12:02" and then "12:06 Sunday morning", where he was covering the shift until 5:30 AM.  There was also mention that this was the Labor Day Weekend.

Temperatures seem a little milder, where he reported 69 degrees at the Capital Building.  Another 'scoped studio copy; nonetheless, more great memories one could have heard via skywave (if one would have been awake!)....


(or download here)

And this Labor Day, it is good to mention that KAAY was born FIFTY YEARS AGO!  Happy Birthday KAAY!


Thanks again to Dave S. for the great work he does, and to Russell Wells for sharing on this momentous occasion!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Friday, August 31, 2012

Cuban Letter Interpretation, By Friend Thom Whetston

From one of our blog friends, Thom Whetston, of the AFRTS Archive (see the link under Mighty 1090's Friends on the right), here is a note for the interpretation of a previous letter from Cuba:

"Hi Bud:

This is rough, but it’s pretty much what the Cuban was saying in his letter on your blog:

Havana 12 March 1974

I'm one of the listeners of KAAY and Beeker St. For me this is the best program in the world with a high musical quality.

From the musical interpretations I prefer Rare Earth and Alice Cooper.

I'm also addicted to the music of Grand Funk and Led Zepplin.

I'd like to give you a list of my favorite groups:

Led Zepplin
Grand Funk
Alice Cooper
Rare Earth

I'd really like an Alice Cooper poster."

It looks like in the other Cuban letter, the writer mentioned posters for Jimi Hendrix, Santana and Black Sabbath....

Thanks, Thom!  I've lost the ability to read & speak Spanish, since I never use it any more.  And be sure to visit Thom's fine blog, regarding the history of the Armed Forces Radio and Television Service, he has plenty of studio-quality audio there, of those who served and aired great music and programs to our armed forces all over the world.  We salute you, Thom, for your service and those who served!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)




One More Cuban-language Letter


Another letter, compliments of Wayne Moss!  What can I say that already hasn't been said...but these dedicated listeners took the time, effort and RISK to write to KAAY to express their appreciation!

Thank you, Wayne....

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Cuban-Language Letter To KAAY

Another offering from Wayne Moss, this one in Spanish.

Music is a universal language, cutting across all borders; the writer thought enough to write to what obviously was, if not one of, the listener's favorite radio station.  Again, another wonderful piece of history and testament of KAAY's signal strength.

Thank you, Wayne!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)

Friday, August 24, 2012

"The Warehouse" Memorial Project!


(Bobby Wahl sent in the information below and is a very worthwhile project, PLUS a chance to obtain a great piece of history!)

THE WAREHOUSE, ... the New Orleans legendary rock venue is being immortalized in a brick and stone memorial on the grounds where it once stood on Tchoupitoulas (chop pa too lus) Street.

Check out our plan to bring the memory back at

WWW.WAREHOUSEPOSTER.COM

with your help we can bring back the vibe.

WWW.WAREHOUSEPOSTER.COM






Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Stateside DX Letter


Here is a nice reception letter from Garry Lodge, of Walnut Creek, California!  This state wasn't in the humongous RF pathway of KAAY's signal, so I'll bet this was a difficult catch, even with KING off the air- and only for fifteen minutes, because of Mexico interfering!

At least he was honest about the music...but he thought enough to send in a report!

Garry, if you see this (or if someone knows Garry and can get in touch with him), please contact me at my e-mail address below!  Thanks again to Wayne Moss for this one of many letters!

Bud S. (staceys4@hotmail.com)