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October 14: Debut of Lux Radio Theater

Today in 1934, Lux Radio Theatre made its debut. One of the Golden Age's most successful shows, it would air first on NBC Blue, then for most of its run on CBS Radio, and then finish up back on NBC in 1955. Twenty-one years of quality.

October 5, 1947: The first recorded radio show: Bing Crosby's 'Der Bingle'

  October 5, 1947: The first tape-recorded show, Bing Crosby's  Der Bingle , was transmitted on ABC. Crosby invested a huge amount in Ampex Company. Popularity of the show also gave boost to magnetic tape recorders, which led to the extensive dissemination of Ampex Model 200 magnetic tape recorders. Bing Crosby , one of the most popular radio stars during that time, was open to the idea of recording radio programs, since he thought it was much better than appearing live. He first suggested this idea to NBC, but it refused, so he decided to just stop working on live radio for a while. He then returned in 1946-1947, this time to the recently-established ABC. It was in June 1947 when Jack Mullin demonstrated to Crosby his tape recorders. After that, Crosby asked him to test record his radio show. Mullin used Ampex's Model 200 tape recorder for that. Following the successful test recording, Crosby asked ABC if he could pre-record his shows, to which the latter agreed. From ...

Radio Mystery Theater Favorites

" CBS Radio Mystery Theater " was an old-time radio show with a cast was made up of voice actors.  The show relied on sound effects and musical underscoring to create its atmosphere. " Radio Mystery Theater " was a popular old-time radio show that ran from 1974 to 1982 and was well received by audiences during its time on the air.  Some of the critical reception of the show: Nostalgia Today: Many fans of the show look back on it with fondness and appreciate it as a classic example of old-time radio. Suspenseful storytelling: Critics have praised the show for its suspenseful and well-crafted stories, which often drew on classic works of mystery and horror literature. Atmosphere: The show's use of sound effects and musical underscoring was noted for its ability to create a spooky and suspenseful atmosphere that effectively set the mood for each episode. Acting: The show's cast of voice actors was also well-regarded for their performances, which were able t...

Fast Fun Facts about Jack Webb

Jack Webb was an American actor, television producer, director, and screenwriter, best known for his role as Sergeant Joe Friday in the 1950s TV series "Dragnet." Here's twelve FUN FACTS for you to know: Jack Webb was born on April 2, 1920 in Santa Monica, California. He served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II, where he was a bomber pilot. In 1949, Webb created and starred in the radio series " Pat Novak for Hire ," which was the basis for the later " Dragnet " TV series. " Dragnet " was one of the first police procedural dramas on television, and it ran for eight seasons from 1951 to 1959. In addition to his work on " Dragnet ," Jack Webb also directed and produced several other TV shows, including "Adam-12," "Emergency!" and "Mark VII Limited." He was known for his distinctive style as a director, which involved using close-ups and quick cuts to convey a sense of immediacy. J...

Old Time Radio Rare Recordings and Gems

Rare Drama , Music , Comedy , Suspense , Mystery, Detective, Crime , Adventure and a spiteful literary critic (1920s-1950s) Whether you seek farce , handcuffing, soapy stories, lilting melodies, exotic adventure or spiteful literary criticism, Random Rarities Three is sure to entertain and delight. This varied collection includes some hilarious comedians . There are two nuts in particular you will want to meet, Millie and Mr. McNutley. Meet Millie , the dimwitted Brooklyn secretary who woos the boss' son. Reminiscent of the humor on My Friend Irma , Meet Millie became a television program in 1952. Then step on over and Meet Mr. McNutley , a General Electric situation comedy starring Ray Milland as a dreamy English professor at an all-girls college. Hang onto yor handbag, because daring dramas abound. There's Manhattan Mother , a soap opera sponsored by Chipso Soap, broadcast in 1938-1940 with only two surviving episodes. Or stay up late for Manhattan at Midnight , a ro...

Old Time Radio: Ten Most Popular Shows

Old time radio, also known as vintage radio or classic radio, still has a dedicated following today. Although it may not be as popular as it once was in its prime, many people continue to enjoy listening to old time radio shows for their nostalgic appeal, humor, and storytelling. Some enthusiasts even collect vintage radio shows and equipment as a hobby. However, the popularity of old time radio varies depending on the region and age group. Old time radio has produced many popular shows over the years, some of the most well-known and widely-loved include: " The Adventures of Superman " - A radio serial that followed the adventures of the iconic comic book superhero, Superman, as he battles crime and protects the citizens of Metropolis. " The Lone Ranger " - A western-themed radio serial that follows the adventures of a masked lawman and his faithful Native American companion, Tonto, as they bring justice to the American frontier. " The Jack Benny Program "...

October 14, 1934: Premiere of Lux Radio Theater

  October 14, 1934: On this day the NBC Blue Network aired for the first time the  Folks Had Clean Hands series, and this day also marked the debut of The Lux Radio Theater , which lasted for the next 21 years. Almost every famous Hollywood star would eventually take part in the program. Lux Radio Theater  created a favorite dramatic series based on Broadway plays and Hollywood films. Before adapting films for the show, Lux Radio Theater adapted the stories of Broadway shows for two seasons. The program was presented live at the studio and achieved high ratings. The program lasted for 20 years and changed into a TV program in 1950. Lux Radio Theater featured many various stage of movie stars. They payed the actors handsomely, a rate of $5,000 for every show they starred in. The program started adapting films in 1936 when sponsor the Lever Brothers (who made Lux soap and detergent) moved the show from New York City to Hollywood.