The Randy Roberts Collection
Randy Roberts, WUSL-FM, 1979    |
In the 1950's and 60's most radios were tuned to WIBG Radio 99 in Philadelphia. The station had a great sound. It was exciting and always interesting. Much of the early rock and roll music was introduced to listeners over WIBG. Equally important were the program hosts who presented the music like Joe Niagara and Hy Lit. Their knowledge of the music, the artists, and their electric personalities would make WIBG a lasting memory to those who listened to Radio 99.During the mid to late 60's another station took the lead with the new sound of "Boss Radio." Soon listeners from the Jersey shore to the Pocono mountains would be tuning in to 560 on the AM dial to hear the WFIL "Boss Jocks" playing more music, much more music, and the most music. And speaking of music, how about the Beatles, the Beach Boys and of course the Motown sound. The hot new sound of Top 40 radio was perfected with talented personalities such as Doctor Donald D. Rose, Jim Nettleton, George Michael, Long John Wade, and Jay Cook, just to name a few. WFIL really was Famous 56 in Philadelphia! In January of 1979 I had the opportunity to work for Jim Nettleton who was program director at US1 WUSL-FM (sister station to WFIL). It was a wonderful experience and one of the best times of my broadcast career. It is my pleasure to share some of Philadelphia's greatest talent. Thank You, Randy! |
Its great to hear the phone action with original WCAU-FM Hot Hits Listeners. At 12:50 we are treated to a “History of Hot Hits WCAU-FM” composite featuring the original airstaff. Toward the end, we hear how long-time Philly promo king Matty Singer tipped the news of the upcoming format change to oldies (WOGL).
As Terry Young says, “they didn’t hand me Number One Disc Jockey on a silver platter. I went out there and earned it.” That meant personal appearances, and a radio station willing to support that kind of community involvement. That stuff is hardly important now, but when your boss could only own two radio stations in your market, it was the difference between getting by and getting ahead.
Our thanks again to contributor Randy Roberts for recording, compiling, and making this exhibit available to REELRADIO.
WCAU airchecks include a Burke and Young composite beginning at 1:04. Another composite featuring Burke, Young, Springfield, O’Brien and Mike Kelly starts at 12:04. Barsky In The Morning, Rich Hawkins, and Glenn Kalina are heard in a third composite beginning at 20:54.
Contributor Randy Roberts recorded and compiled this exhibit.
The quality is excellent on this one, and it’s a real treat. George Michael (of NBC’s Sports Machine) is at his best on this Radio Greats Reunion from May 10th, 1996. Broadcast on WOGL-FM, Philadelphia, George talks with Jay Cook about “Boss Radio” and the “Boss Jocks” from 56 WFIL.
George Michael died from complications of chronic lymphocytic leukemia on December 24, 2009. He was 70.
Terry Young, “The Motor Mouth”, one of the fastest talkers in radio, entertained Philadelphia listeners on WCAU-FM, another Hot Hits station (consulted by Mike Josephs.)
During the ’50’s and 60’s, Philadelphians tuned to the “Queen Mother” – 99 WIBG. Leading the way for Top 40, WIBG left an everlasting mark on Philadelphia radio.
Two of Philly’s best, Hy Lit and Joe Niagara, were along for the great ride, and are featured here in the last hour – as heard September 10, 1977.
Joe Niagara passed away following surgery on June 4, 2004. Hy Lit died of heart and kidney failure, following knee surgery, on November 17, 2007. He was 73.
Dan Donovan’s enthusiasm is infectious in this aircheck, made during the last week of WIBG. This treasure, provided by Man from Mars Productions was edited by Randy Roberts for exhibition here. It showcases the exceptionally tight and exciting WFIL presentation.
While the public interest is forgotten these days, there’s no doubt that Jim O’Brien was of great interest to the public in Philadelphia, which he called home until his tragic death in 1984.
Aircheck courtesy of Man from Mars Productions, edited by Randy Roberts.
Also included: the great PAMS (Series 34) Another Hour of Music Power jingle.