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John Mack Flanagan
- Thread starter 1069_KIFR
- Start date
I guess the jokes on you friend!
I believe John is more than a "Security Guard" ...I believe he is in charge of security for a highrise building in downtown San Francisco. I don't really know much about his job - but given the climate in this country, and continuing concerns about terrorism, I think he probably has a job that carries a lot of responsibility.
Thanks for your concern but I'm NOT affected by the current labor problems in San Francisco. Let me clear some things up. I'm not really a Security Guard, I'm a Security Officer. The difference between Air Personality and Disc Jockey. I don't care what you call me, but my work is very, very intense. When you're respondsible for the lives of 30 stories of individuals, it's a lot more than trying to stay awake behind a console. This work is very stressful. I'm sure there are truck drivers and transportation specialists, I try to be more of a professional. Whether I am or not, I'll leave up to others, but please respect my right to build the life I want. It took years to get out of Radio and position myself where I am. They've been damn good to me, and I'm grateful. -John-
D
doublecashkgb
Guest
Some of you need to get a life. I'm real serious. Classy reply to a stupid question.
X
XM RADIO
Guest
Im never going to agree with the way John Mack Flanagan has been treated in radio, I swear these companies like CBS and now XM radio relieviving Bobby Ocean on XM 70s channel,,what a joke,, Tell me why Ron Parker land a gig at WCBS FM,,and this Bay Area cant have some legends to listen to? So let me guess if Coffee was to be let go would Cammy Blackstone be doing afternnon drive? CBS should have given John Mack and Bobby Ocean CARTE BLANCHE and let em write their own ticket! When will they ever get it! XM is another Big Conglomirite who gets rid of Bobby Ocean and puts on some no name cheaper talent! Less and less to listen to now days! Remember CBS its not all about THE BOTTOM LINE,, its the DJ that plays a huge role in your sucess,, Satellite and Terrestrial have a few things in common, they dont listen to the listeners,, I would pay to hear the a Live John Mack Flanagan and Bobby Ocean show! Kenny in Concord... By no way am I saying Ron parker is any legend!
"I'm never going to agree with the way John Mack Flanagan has been treated in radio, I swear these companies like CBS and now XM radio relieviving Bobby Ocean on XM 70s channel,,what a joke,, Tell me why Ron Parker land a gig at WCBS FM,,and this Bay Area cant have some legends to listen to?"
Good question, Kenny. As a non-radio professional - just a fan who's been paying attention for years, it seems obvious there has never been anything close to job security in radio. As a kid in Los Angeles- 3 decades before radio deregulation, I would wonder why my favorite high rated DJ would suddenly disappear, then show up months later at some low rent station. It seemed like management never appreciated talent.
But Los Angeles does seem to appreciate longevity more - in both radio and TV, and has had some of the same radio personalities and TV anchors for decades. Hal Fishman was anchoring news on KTLA in the early 60s I was 10 years old, and would still be on the air if he hadn't passed away this summer. Same with the biggest Top 40 DJs like Morgan and Steele who would probably still be on K-Earth if they weren't in "rock and roll heaven."
That doesn't seem to happen as much in the Bay Area, and I'm not sure why. There are some exceptions - Ronn Owens and some of the other KGO hosts have been around forever, Dave Morey on KFOG, Sue Hall is back after being briefly MOVeD out of her KFRC job. Actually, like her or not - Cammy had a pretty good decade long run at KFRC. Don't ask me to explain that one.
Good question, Kenny. As a non-radio professional - just a fan who's been paying attention for years, it seems obvious there has never been anything close to job security in radio. As a kid in Los Angeles- 3 decades before radio deregulation, I would wonder why my favorite high rated DJ would suddenly disappear, then show up months later at some low rent station. It seemed like management never appreciated talent.
But Los Angeles does seem to appreciate longevity more - in both radio and TV, and has had some of the same radio personalities and TV anchors for decades. Hal Fishman was anchoring news on KTLA in the early 60s I was 10 years old, and would still be on the air if he hadn't passed away this summer. Same with the biggest Top 40 DJs like Morgan and Steele who would probably still be on K-Earth if they weren't in "rock and roll heaven."
That doesn't seem to happen as much in the Bay Area, and I'm not sure why. There are some exceptions - Ronn Owens and some of the other KGO hosts have been around forever, Dave Morey on KFOG, Sue Hall is back after being briefly MOVeD out of her KFRC job. Actually, like her or not - Cammy had a pretty good decade long run at KFRC. Don't ask me to explain that one.
It is simply the suits do not have any RESPECT for the people that could make their station better. They think they know it all and screw the talented people to try and prove their point.
A legendary on air personality seems to be a thing of the past, now they bring on voice tracking.
A legendary on air personality seems to be a thing of the past, now they bring on voice tracking.
Radio today is quite different from even 10 years ago. It's not just the technology and voice tracks, it's the whole operation of Radio. First, how do you keep it fresh? The same music, the same tracks, the same hype, over and over and over. My hat is off to Sue Hall. How does she do it, day after day? When I started in Radio in 1964, you played 45's and 33 1/3 LPs and you actually felt the intimacy of being one-to-one with the listener. And, when the listeners brought you brownies or birthday cards, you loved them for it. There was no one bigger in my eyes, than the listener. When I came to San Francisco from the southwest and people opened their heart to me, I was truly h-o-m-e. I've never taken it for granted and I always appreciate everything I've received here. When I get my memiors out; "Superhit Highway" you'll read all about it. -John- (They're done, I just have to get them published.)
Hi John, you may or may not remember me, but I would call you at the station in the afternoon at work , we've met a couple times before.... my name is Rick, I won't reveal too much on an open board if you understand. First of all, what really changed was the importance of the announcer or DJ. Back in the 60's 70's the DJ was very important in peoples lives because he had access to what most people didn't have. That was music. The library of hits. He automatically became your friend, even though you didn't know what he looked like, how he was personally, you didn't care, he had the music that made your day. When he played your song that was spinning in your mind in class all day, you were appreciative hearing it, especially in the evenings
He was like that kid in high school who can get you into parties, got tickets at concerts or events for free, or can get you fixed with some chicks. You wanted to get really in with him. Things you probably knew you couldn't get yourself. (Unless you had big pockets) you knew you couldn't have an 11000 song library on your IPOD like you can today.
The days you were on, the average person only had access to an average of 2 stations he really liked or can relate too. And the listener really depended on DJs to play their songs (especially if it was a hot new hit. )
Even though you could afford in those days to own the KFRC top 30.....just the technology of the spindle , needle and the turntable was just a hassle alone just to get them on to listen to.
But today, with easy access of downloading, automation software, etc....I hate to tell you it doesn't matter who's on.
Today's Boss Jock is like another person behind the counter at Wall-Mart. In most cases.
Mornings might be the only thing that people might relate to as far as announcers are concerned....as long as there are commutes , traffic, and no layoffs, and dirty laundry, otherwise none or very little music.....the other choice you run your own station, like an IPOD.
He was like that kid in high school who can get you into parties, got tickets at concerts or events for free, or can get you fixed with some chicks. You wanted to get really in with him. Things you probably knew you couldn't get yourself. (Unless you had big pockets) you knew you couldn't have an 11000 song library on your IPOD like you can today.
The days you were on, the average person only had access to an average of 2 stations he really liked or can relate too. And the listener really depended on DJs to play their songs (especially if it was a hot new hit. )
Even though you could afford in those days to own the KFRC top 30.....just the technology of the spindle , needle and the turntable was just a hassle alone just to get them on to listen to.
But today, with easy access of downloading, automation software, etc....I hate to tell you it doesn't matter who's on.
Today's Boss Jock is like another person behind the counter at Wall-Mart. In most cases.
Mornings might be the only thing that people might relate to as far as announcers are concerned....as long as there are commutes , traffic, and no layoffs, and dirty laundry, otherwise none or very little music.....the other choice you run your own station, like an IPOD.
"[....] It took years to get out of Radio and position myself where I am. They've been damn good to me, and I'm grateful."
This is one of the best quotes I've heard in years. There are some people who believe that radio is the essence of life itself; and there are those of us who know better. Thanks, JMF.
This is one of the best quotes I've heard in years. There are some people who believe that radio is the essence of life itself; and there are those of us who know better. Thanks, JMF.
Wow! Starbucks, you are articulate! If I sat here and told you, "The Jock was God"...blah,blah,blah, you'd think I blew my mind! But I've heard the comments of listeners both on the phone and in person, and I can tell you for a fact I know the impact a disc jockey can have on people's lives. Would I rather be John Mack Flanagan or Elton John? Take a guess. ... I spent 36 years two months with my customer up close, and one on one. I'll take my career anyday of the week. I worked tiny 250 watt stations and big powerhouses like KFRC and everything in between. It's kind of sad times change, but change is the one thing we humans have to learn to accept (Grasshopper!). My life has turned 180 degrees and I've had to accept a lot of change, but I really, really enjoy everyone's postings. Keep it up. You're making one old Boss Jock happy. -John- Me...old...shessh!
I've been told before how articulate I am. That's how I got myself a few gigs on the air. But you should just be happy, because you were born in an era where being on the air almost anywhere was the best career anyone can have. Today...most of what has been coming out on the airwaves or the music industry, is the result of what's being turned out of the public school system. When your "Superhit Highway" comes out, will it be at Barne's or Borders or mail order?
I hope to host book signings in the Bay Area, and will guest on talk shows. So, you can get a copy from me, or on line. I really am excited about "Superhit Highway", and I know you will be too. -John-
"It's kind of sad times change, but change is the one thing we humans have to learn to accept ..."
John, you are so right. The ONLY constant I've observed IS CHANGE. Nothing remains today from the "Boss Radio" era except refurbished memories, wildly entertaining airchecks and one's personal sense of watching it all play out. But who would have even guessed it would devolve? Like you, I'm astonished.
While it's true corporations do not seem to have the same RESPECT for the air talent they did 30 - 40 years ago, it is puzzling they seemingly have none.
You used to be able to walk into a radio station and FEEL the collective teamwork. You felt you were on the inside of something premeditated and fabulous. Nowadays, where there WAS a mutual regard between different departments such as Sales and Programming, management and artists, I observe, among corporate held stations, fear and misunderstanding, marked by an unwillingness by administration to see the total entertainment perspective. Also, sadly, I hear NO PRIORITY for the Listener.
Empty, regurgitated, fake smile pop radio-- that's the kind of thing that happens when the proprietor doesn't understand his craft, and is consequently frightened of his own customers. That's when, in his fear, he turns on that Corporate Blind Faith, and turns for answers to one of the In House Consultant Yes Men (usually from out of town). That'd be where a professional entertainer would've applied knowledge of her/his craft.
I'm hearing their slogans barking, but their hollowness is screaming. I'm hearing a voice say they're bringing back the Spirit, but I can't HEAR that spirit.
What're listeners hearing? -- "Today's Boss Jock is like another person behind the counter at Wall-Mart," says Starbucks. Listeners get not even a sequel, but a rushed and barely fleshed-out re-write, a cut-and-paste, bare budget, thrown together presentation with no zero staging. Their reaction? "run your own station, like an IPOD."
I keep thinking/hoping radio will be "rediscovered," and get better-sounding. I suppose it will, but boy am I glad I was along for the ride when it was so vibrant, bigger than life, breath-taking and pulsing with love!
Like you John, having "...worked tiny 250 watt stations and big powerhouses like KFRC and everything in between..." I still love the notion of broadcasting, sharing moments, music, memories with people all across the listening area I feel are friends. So I search out the good spots still remaining, the stations owned by real broadcasters, the entertainers.
And I thrive on the people who are not buckling under but still living he dream, like yourself. I look forward to hearing of your upcoming book signings and talk show appearances. I won't even ask for a comp, John, but will probably track you down to autograph it for me!
John, you are so right. The ONLY constant I've observed IS CHANGE. Nothing remains today from the "Boss Radio" era except refurbished memories, wildly entertaining airchecks and one's personal sense of watching it all play out. But who would have even guessed it would devolve? Like you, I'm astonished.
While it's true corporations do not seem to have the same RESPECT for the air talent they did 30 - 40 years ago, it is puzzling they seemingly have none.
You used to be able to walk into a radio station and FEEL the collective teamwork. You felt you were on the inside of something premeditated and fabulous. Nowadays, where there WAS a mutual regard between different departments such as Sales and Programming, management and artists, I observe, among corporate held stations, fear and misunderstanding, marked by an unwillingness by administration to see the total entertainment perspective. Also, sadly, I hear NO PRIORITY for the Listener.
Empty, regurgitated, fake smile pop radio-- that's the kind of thing that happens when the proprietor doesn't understand his craft, and is consequently frightened of his own customers. That's when, in his fear, he turns on that Corporate Blind Faith, and turns for answers to one of the In House Consultant Yes Men (usually from out of town). That'd be where a professional entertainer would've applied knowledge of her/his craft.
I'm hearing their slogans barking, but their hollowness is screaming. I'm hearing a voice say they're bringing back the Spirit, but I can't HEAR that spirit.
What're listeners hearing? -- "Today's Boss Jock is like another person behind the counter at Wall-Mart," says Starbucks. Listeners get not even a sequel, but a rushed and barely fleshed-out re-write, a cut-and-paste, bare budget, thrown together presentation with no zero staging. Their reaction? "run your own station, like an IPOD."
I keep thinking/hoping radio will be "rediscovered," and get better-sounding. I suppose it will, but boy am I glad I was along for the ride when it was so vibrant, bigger than life, breath-taking and pulsing with love!
Like you John, having "...worked tiny 250 watt stations and big powerhouses like KFRC and everything in between..." I still love the notion of broadcasting, sharing moments, music, memories with people all across the listening area I feel are friends. So I search out the good spots still remaining, the stations owned by real broadcasters, the entertainers.
And I thrive on the people who are not buckling under but still living he dream, like yourself. I look forward to hearing of your upcoming book signings and talk show appearances. I won't even ask for a comp, John, but will probably track you down to autograph it for me!
Wow Skyrocket, that was great. Not only is there fear and misunderstanding from the corporate suits, but I'm sure there is mistrust as well.
I know many of us were so, so excited about KFRC coming back. But I do not believe it has lived up to our expectations. So it is what it is. And we have to live with the situation. Other markets have tried to reinvent the boss jock format, only to not win over many listeners. A station in Sacramento gave it a shot not too long ago. They had the personalities, the upbeat sounds, all the bells and whistles. But that market did not respond to that format. The station was sold and is now an Oldies outlet.
When radio was deregulated, that was the beginning of the end, in my opinion. It made no sense if a rival station that is now owned by the same owner to do any type of over the top promotion. When a station said they had a 'HUGE announcement, tomomorw at 7:15AM', you had better be tuned in to hear. Now that statement is a joke! Why compete against yourself? That is when it was no longer fun to listen to radio. Creativity, excitement went out the door. Enter the era of 'safe radio'. As it remains today. A sorry state of affairs.
Well getting back to the topic at hand, I am glad that JMF is gainfully and happily employed without being on a picket line! I cannot wait for his book to come out. I am sure he will notify us via this site when it is available.
That is my two cents for today!
I know many of us were so, so excited about KFRC coming back. But I do not believe it has lived up to our expectations. So it is what it is. And we have to live with the situation. Other markets have tried to reinvent the boss jock format, only to not win over many listeners. A station in Sacramento gave it a shot not too long ago. They had the personalities, the upbeat sounds, all the bells and whistles. But that market did not respond to that format. The station was sold and is now an Oldies outlet.
When radio was deregulated, that was the beginning of the end, in my opinion. It made no sense if a rival station that is now owned by the same owner to do any type of over the top promotion. When a station said they had a 'HUGE announcement, tomomorw at 7:15AM', you had better be tuned in to hear. Now that statement is a joke! Why compete against yourself? That is when it was no longer fun to listen to radio. Creativity, excitement went out the door. Enter the era of 'safe radio'. As it remains today. A sorry state of affairs.
Well getting back to the topic at hand, I am glad that JMF is gainfully and happily employed without being on a picket line! I cannot wait for his book to come out. I am sure he will notify us via this site when it is available.
That is my two cents for today!
The Boss Radio format was tried by Entravision on their station KCCL 101.9 FM Shingle Springs, CA. The station was not sold and is now a Country formated station. The oldies format is now on 92.1 KCCL Placerville, CA. and is owned by First Broadcasting which took the KCCL calls when 101.9 went country becoming "The Wolf" KNTY!
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