Rant here about Timeless Classics

[cjf68]

Chuck, I think you understand what I'm talking about and I plan to listen to your station later on tonight.

You don't have to go big band to do standards. You can also play the missing hits from the top 40 era that were adult hits. The oldies stations never played these songs even though they were hits in the '60's, '70's and there were probably a few in the '80's too.

I think you might find that after some exposure to this "new" format you would see some younger people listening. Many of them are disenchanted with the music of their generation or they want to dig deeper and explore other types of music.

Right now "Timeless Classics" is the best we have on the air where I live.

Mike

You'll note that a lot of our music IS the top 40 hits from the 50's & 60's. There was a lot of good stuff from Perry Como, the Ames Brothers, Pat Boone, Rosemary Clooney, Brooke Benton, Nat Cole, Dean Martin, etc. We don't choose to go very far into the 70's, but there are some songs from that era work fine too. Those top 40 hits don't happen to be rock based, and we avoid soft rock songs of the 70's and 80's. Back in the 50's and 60's, not everyone wanted to listen to Chuck Berry, so the MOR format was very popular. We are simply revisiting the format.

You'll also note that a lot of what we play is contemporary versions of standards. There are a lot of them from people like Tony Bennett, Michael Buble, even artists like Elvis Costello, Rod Stewart, Alanis Morrisette, Queen Latifa and Eric Clapton get air play when they do songs that fit the genre. Even though those artists are primarily known for other musical styles, I think these people know a good song when they hear one.

I do agree that a lot of kids are interested in this music. We get calls from them, and sometimes they ask some really interesting questions about the music and the times. It may come as a big surprise to the record companies, but not all kids love rap or hip-hop.

We're certainly not perfect, but I think we do OK for an all-volunteer operated station. It seems to work for us. (And there is no Timeless Classic or MOYL station in our area).

I`ve have been listening to your station for the last few days and I want to say ........Thank you!!!!! I appreciate anyone at this point
Who still appreciates great music. With the exception of Wjib ( Which you cannot recieve down my way-- Plymouth MA.) No one is playing
Adult Standards Right now. But we have three stations that are playing Adult comtemporary-- I don`t know much about the radio biz, but
it just does not seem right. Thanks again!!!!

 

[radiovixen]

As someone who has been employed at Timeless affiliates since 1988 (back when it was Stardust and almost exclusively big band), I thought I'd add my two cents here. Radio, more than any other medium, is the people's medium, and it certainly is worth your while to let your local affiliate know about any complaints you have regarding music or other programming. You may quite possibly get results, and at the very least, you've made your opinion known, and that counts for something. We do take into consideration listener comments when constructing playlists or selecting programming.

From an affiliate's point of view, the abrupt changes in the Timeless format over the last couple of years have been frustrating, for a number of reasons. We do take a considerable amount of heat from our listenership over changes to the playlist. We do not receive advance notice from the network as to playlist adds/drops, so when a major restructuring of the format takes place, we are pretty much screwed. Our morning program is live and music intensive, so for us that has meant a music library mismatch...and we don't get music for free!

Our general manager and program director have spent quite a bit of time on the phone with ABC regarding changes in the format, since they feel this is not what we signed up for. The general manager (who also owns our station) let out quite a holler one afternoon when Jethro Tull's "Living in the Past" aired as a new add. He made a quick phone call to the network and the song was never heard again.

We are all for updating and freshening up the format, but as it moves toward an adult contemporary sound and less MOR, we get a little nervous. MOR may be a less glamorous format, but it has done very well for us, and both the listeners and the advertisers (many of whom are also listeners) eat it right up. As others have pointed out, many of the AC songs are way overplayed, and in our market, can be heard on at least half a dozen other stations. MOR gave us a bit more exclusivity. We were originally with ABC's AC format (the now defunct StarStation) and it was a bottom feeder ratings-wise. We don't care to revisit those days, and cringe at the thought of Timeless moving in that direction.

 

[Famous56guy]

As someone who has been employed at Timeless affiliates since 1988 (back when it was Stardust and almost exclusively big band), I thought I'd add my two cents here. Radio, more than any other medium, is the people's medium, and it certainly is worth your while to let your local affiliate know about any complaints you have regarding music or other programming. You may quite possibly get results, and at the very least, you've made your opinion known, and that counts for something. We do take into consideration listener comments when constructing playlists or selecting programming.

From an affiliate's point of view, the abrupt changes in the Timeless format over the last couple of years have been frustrating, for a number of reasons. We do take a considerable amount of heat from our listenership over changes to the playlist. We do not receive advance notice from the network as to playlist adds/drops, so when a major restructuring of the format takes place, we are pretty much screwed. Our morning program is live and music intensive, so for us that has meant a music library mismatch...and we don't get music for free!

Our general manager and program director have spent quite a bit of time on the phone with ABC regarding changes in the format, since they feel this is not what we signed up for. The general manager (who also owns our station) let out quite a holler one afternoon when Jethro Tull's "Living in the Past" aired as a new add. He made a quick phone call to the network and the song was never heard again.

We are all for updating and freshening up the format, but as it moves toward an adult contemporary sound and less MOR, we get a little nervous. MOR may be a less glamorous format, but it has done very well for us, and both the listeners and the advertisers (many of whom are also listeners) eat it right up. As others have pointed out, many of the AC songs are way overplayed, and in our market, can be heard on at least half a dozen other stations. MOR gave us a bit more exclusivity. We were originally with ABC's AC format (the now defunct StarStation) and it was a bottom feeder ratings-wise. We don't care to revisit those days, and cringe at the thought of Timeless moving in that direction.

I e mailed our local affiliate in Sebring, Fl and his response suprised me in the fact that he stated I should give the format a chance and he has no other complaints. I find that hard to beleive, because any loyal listener to Timeless, cannot possibly be happy with the curent rotation of thier modfied soft AC play list. I am very disappointed in the change's at ABC Timeless, especially after I heard Van Morrison's Brown Eye Girl" and "heartbreaker" by Diana Warwick. This Genre of Music does not even flow with thier DJ's, who I happen to like very much, but have more of a nostaglia personality to them, except for the new additions to the staff ,who fit right in with the new, bland, overplayed format. This will effect the ratings in many markets, and not in a positive way, No way are they going to attract, younger listners, to a mostly AM format.

Chuck, I think you understand what I'm talking about and I plan to listen to your station later on tonight.

You don't have to go big band to do standards. You can also play the missing hits from the top 40 era that were adult hits. The oldies stations never played these songs even though they were hits in the '60's, '70's and there were probably a few in the '80's too.

I think you might find that after some exposure to this "new" format you would see some younger people listening. Many of them are disenchanted with the music of their generation or they want to dig deeper and explore other types of music.

Right now "Timeless Classics" is the best we have on the air where I live.

Mike

You'll note that a lot of our music IS the top 40 hits from the 50's & 60's. There was a lot of good stuff from Perry Como, the Ames Brothers, Pat Boone, Rosemary Clooney, Brooke Benton, Nat Cole, Dean Martin, etc. We don't choose to go very far into the 70's, but there are some songs from that era work fine too. Those top 40 hits don't happen to be rock based, and we avoid soft rock songs of the 70's and 80's. Back in the 50's and 60's, not everyone wanted to listen to Chuck Berry, so the MOR format was very popular. We are simply revisiting the format.

You'll also note that a lot of what we play is contemporary versions of standards. There are a lot of them from people like Tony Bennett, Michael Buble, even artists like Elvis Costello, Rod Stewart, Alanis Morrisette, Queen Latifa and Eric Clapton get air play when they do songs that fit the genre. Even though those artists are primarily known for other musical styles, I think these people know a good song when they hear one.

I do agree that a lot of kids are interested in this music. We get calls from them, and sometimes they ask some really interesting questions about the music and the times. It may come as a big surprise to the record companies, but not all kids love rap or hip-hop.

We're certainly not perfect, but I think we do OK for an all-volunteer operated station. It seems to work for us. (And there is no Timeless Classic or MOYL station in our area).

I`ve have been listening to your station for the last few days and I want to say ........Thank you!!!!! I appreciate anyone at this point
Who still appreciates great music. With the exception of Wjib ( Which you cannot recieve down my way-- Plymouth MA.) No one is playing
Adult Standards Right now. But we have three stations that are playing Adult comtemporary-- I don`t know much about the radio biz, but
it just does not seem right. Thanks again!!!!

 

[vchimpanzee]

I was pleasantly surprised to hear "Our Winter Love" by Bill Purcell one day. That was one of the songs I thought I'd never hear in this format again.

But a few minutes later, just after the Dial Global station started up its music again, I checked back and there was something by Chicago. I thought it was "Will You Still Love Me" but it could have been "You're The Inspiration". Either way, : .

 

[vchimpanzee]

Update: "Every Time You Go Away" by Paul Young. Though it was during an optional commercial break.

I wish Paul Young WOULD go away. Isn't he a character on "Desperate Housewives"?

 

[hammondo]

I'd LOVE to hear YOUR solution for keeping the older audience AND ADDING younger people. Ya' GOTTA play those kind of songs to do that.

Let's hear what YOU'D DO? You can't only play 40's and 50's. NO ADVERTISER wants the age group that loves that music.

As an listener, if you are over 50, playing those easy rock songs
doesn't matter because there are FEW places that play the 50's 60's
standards - so THOSE LISTENERS have little choice on the radio.

I'm sorry you can't get an i-pod or use Pandora. It works GREAT for me.

 

[vchimpanzee]

I'd LOVE to hear YOUR solution for keeping the older audience AND ADDING younger people. Ya' GOTTA play those kind of songs to do that.

Not "Every Time You Go Away". I don't even care if oldies stations are adding that one.

I also heard "Babe" by Styx.

Right now my car radio is broken, and I can't pick up Worthless Classics at night (warm weather helps), and I don't bother to try them during the day.

I would say the strategy of playing new versions of standards by artists young people know might be a big help. Rod Stewart, Barry Manilow and Tony Bennett perform on "American Idol", do they not?

 

[hammondo]

You did not answer my question. NOt "Rock Around the Clock" either.

I'd still LOVE to hear YOUR solution for keeping the older audience AND ADDING younger people. Ya' GOTTA play "younger appeal" easy mor kind of songs to do that.

 

[oaktree]

Hammando, you are so close to hitting it out of the ball park on this ... I'd really like to work with you on this.

After months of watching this board, participation (rightly or wrongly,) and now being able to hear this genre on dozens of radio stations across the country via the Internet (and a radio that delivers that,) I've come to a few conclusions.

First, Hammando is right in my opinion. He's looking for style, class and, I think, a hummable, "movin'," maybe even "swingin'" format that isn't bogged down in the same "Que Sera Sera" or "Unchained Melody" type songs -- while avoiding the "Chicken rock" stuff of "Tommy James & the Shondells or the Righteous Bros." either.

Though I love Adult Standards/Nostalgia -- and program it myself quite successfully in a small market, I can tell you that I'm changing my tune. From now on, it's not Adult Standards/Nostalgia ... it's back to another name. M - O - R.

You bet I want Sinatra at his very best, and then some. You bet I want Nancy Wilson, and then some. Jack Jones, too. Andy, Tony ... but not the draggy stuff. Not that I don't like Jerry Vale or Vic Damone, but we have to move past that.

I'd not play big band except in a special "program" be it "Lunchtime with the Big Bands" or on Sundays, or something...but remove that from the "nostalgia" part of the equation.

I'd play the heck out of "Our Winter Love" by Bill Purcell (for a while.) I'd play Manilow, including his new "50s" CD, his "Showstoppers" CD and "Swing Street." A number one album for months a year ago, remember...some one's listening.

I'd play Bennett and Steve Wonder together and a very very very few Stevie Wonder songs. I can think of four off the top of my head.

I'd play nothing from Chicago. I'd be selective about the Captain & Tennille and I'd be really really careful with anything from the Rod Stewart or Robert Palmer "Standards" CDs. But they'd be there.

Ronstadt...from the "Trilogy" album with Riddle.

I'd play Herb Alpert and some, but not all Tijuana Brass. I'd play Mathis, but include some newer stuff. Dion Warwick I'd be very careful with, but she did some great things, including a Cole Porter set.

Michael Buble' is the hottest thing going, Josh Groden, too.

I'd look for some great "turntable" songs. The Singers Unlimited" did versions of hits that sound like the best jingle packages out there and give a lift to your station. The Manhatten Transfer, Janet Siegal ... and others.

I'd stay clear of Lionel Richie or the perceived "Top 40" songs unless they were absolute must plays and fit the format... as standards. I might play "Three Times a Lady" ... maybe, and that's in frequent. There wouldn't be much else.

I'd be careful about Motown or early 60s stuff on both sides...no draggy Percy Faith or Conniff (maybe some of the up stuff, though) and I'd be very careful about the "standard" Top 40, again. If I play one Supremes song, that may be one too many. I will play the heck out of Good Morning Heartache and Touch Me in the Morning, by Diana Ross.

The Lettermen, Vogues...absolutely. The Association...give 'em a rest.

Como? Sure...his up stuff. Nat Cole? Sure, no song better in my opinion than "That Sunday that Summer."

Middle of the road. I'd play George Benson's "This Masquerade" and "Breezin'." Probably some swingin' Count Basie, too. But I would be very careful with maybe one or two Al Jarreau at best. And great Ray Charles, but selective. Steve Lawrence, too.

For country crossover, sure, Campbell, a little Willie (Stardust & On the Road Again), Ray Price, Milsap, Crystal Gayle, Lynn Anderson...Anne Murray, sure.

For females, I'd play swingin' Ella, Streisand, very little Francis, Manchester...etc. Rosie Clooney and her jazz stuff and don't forget "Bye Bye Blackbird." And Eydie Gorme, especially her Bossa Nova stuff.

Be just as selective on the instrumentals, but stay away from the 50s and early 60s as much as possible.

By culling through the wealth of music there, you'll be surprised at BOTH the breadth and depth of a library that you create and can sell that's both "adult" and "listenable" to young people.

KEZW in Denver does it well. Some of the Crawford stations, too. Our poster, Chuck, does it well most all the time.

The sat companies don't in many ways.

Don't try to be all things to all people. That's NOT what MOR radio means. It's "the middle of the road." But it sure sounds good.

Now...does anyone have a good clean copy of "A Man & A Woman" by Johnny Mann? I need a good copy of it and you will be forever in my debt.

 

[Chuck]

Oaktree, you are correct. It is really MOR, not "standards." A lot of the music is current, not a decrepit look at the past. It is just patterned after some really good popular MOR radio of the 1950's and 60's.

I think a lot of our listeners would be surprised if I listed our artists as Stevie Wonder, Eric Clapton, Elvis Costello, Queen Latifa, etc, but we do play them and a lot more. Why are these artists going outside of the genre they are best known for? I think they just know a good song when they hear one.

 

[oaktree]

So, Adult Standards not so important, eh?

Enjoy this ... current as of today. A good start.

Just think, if the CRB gets those royalties, this guy's royalties will be out the door...

http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/la-fi-oldies8may08,1,5281141.story?ctrack=2&cset=true

 

[vchimpanzee]

Not that I don't like Jerry Vale or Vic Damone, but we have to move past that.

No we don't!

I'd not play big band except in a special "program" be it "Lunchtime with the Big Bands" or on Sundays, or something...but remove that from the "nostalgia" part of the equation.

I'd play the heck out of "Our Winter Love" by Bill Purcell (for a while.) I'd play Manilow, including his new "50s" CD, his "Showstoppers" CD and "Swing Street." A number one album for months a year ago, remember...some one's listening.

I'd play Bennett and Steve Wonder together and a very very very few Stevie Wonder songs. I can think of four off the top of my head.

I'd play nothing from Chicago. I'd be selective about the Captain & Tennille and I'd be really really careful with anything from the Rod Stewart or Robert Palmer "Standards" CDs. But they'd be there.

I haven't heard Robert Palmer. I like the Rod Stewart songs and see no reason to be "careful".

Ronstadt...from the "Trilogy" album with Riddle.

I'd play Herb Alpert and some, but not all Tijuana Brass.

What's wrong with the Tijuana brass?
I'd play Mathis, but include some newer stuff. Dion Warwick I'd be very careful with, but she did some great things, including a Cole Porter set.

What's wrong with Dionne Warwick?

Michael Buble' is the hottest thing going, Josh Groden, too.

I'd look for some great "turntable" songs. The Singers Unlimited" did versions of hits that sound like the best jingle packages out there and give a lift to your station. The Manhatten Transfer, Janet Siegal ... and others.

I'd stay clear of Lionel Richie or the perceived "Top 40" songs unless they were absolute must plays and fit the format... as standards. I might play "Three Times a Lady" ... maybe, and that's in frequent. There wouldn't be much else.

Definitely. I heard "Easy" this morning but I happen to like it. Even the nasty guitar solo. But I can do without him.

I'd be careful about Motown or early 60s stuff on both sides...no draggy Percy Faith or Conniff (maybe some of the up stuff, though) and I'd be very careful about the "standard" Top 40, again. If I play one Supremes song, that may be one too many. I will play the heck out of Good Morning Heartache and Touch Me in the Morning, by Diana Ross.

I like Percy Faith and Ray Conniff. I wish "Song From 'Moulin Rouge'" had been a pure instrumental because I don't like the vocal style on that song.

I do agree about The Supremes. They're just too loud. But "Theme from 'Mahogany'" and "Touch Me in the Morning" are great. Never mind what males who were surveyed said about that second one back in 1989 when our "Lite" station decided to go mainstream AC (we had beautiful music and what's now Dial Global as options).

The Lettermen, Vogues...absolutely. The Association...give 'em a rest.

Say what? I like "Never My Love" (another song bashed by males in that 1989 survey) and "Cherish".
Como? Sure...his up stuff.

All his music!

Nat Cole? Sure, no song better in my opinion than "That Sunday that Summer."

Would you believe Pointless Classics still plays that one? And I agree there are too many good ones to list that Dial Global plays all the time.

Middle of the road. I'd play George Benson's "This Masquerade" and "Breezin'." Probably some swingin' Count Basie, too. But I would be very careful with maybe one or two Al Jarreau at best. And great Ray Charles, but selective. Steve Lawrence, too.

For country crossover, sure, Campbell, a little Willie (Stardust & On the Road Again), Ray Price, Milsap, Crystal Gayle, Lynn Anderson...Anne Murray, sure.

For females, I'd play swingin' Ella, Streisand, very little Francis, Manchester...etc. Rosie Clooney and her jazz stuff and don't forget "Bye Bye Blackbird." And Eydie Gorme, especially her Bossa Nova stuff.

I'm trying to agree here. How can you be selective with Ray Charles? And what's wrong with Connie Francis?

Be just as selective on the instrumentals, but stay away from the 50s and early 60s as much as possible.

I like the instrumentals!
By culling through the wealth of music there, you'll be surprised at BOTH the breadth and depth of a library that you create and can sell that's both "adult" and "listenable" to young people.

KEZW in Denver does it well. Some of the Crawford stations, too. Our poster, Chuck, does it well most all the time.

The sat companies don't in many ways.

Don't try to be all things to all people. That's NOT what MOR radio means. It's "the middle of the road." But it sure sounds good.

Now...does anyone have a good clean copy of "A Man & A Woman" by Johnny Mann? I need a good copy of it and you will be forever in my debt.

 

[vchimpanzee]

Not that I don't like Jerry Vale or Vic Damone, but we have to move past that.

No we don't!

I'd not play big band except in a special "program" be it "Lunchtime with the Big Bands" or on Sundays, or something...but remove that from the "nostalgia" part of the equation.

I'd play the heck out of "Our Winter Love" by Bill Purcell (for a while.) I'd play Manilow, including his new "50s" CD, his "Showstoppers" CD and "Swing Street." A number one album for months a year ago, remember...some one's listening.

I'd play Bennett and Steve Wonder together and a very very very few Stevie Wonder songs. I can think of four off the top of my head.

I'd play nothing from Chicago. I'd be selective about the Captain & Tennille and I'd be really really careful with anything from the Rod Stewart or Robert Palmer "Standards" CDs. But they'd be there.

I haven't heard Robert Palmer. I like the Rod Stewart songs and see no reason to be "careful".

Ronstadt...from the "Trilogy" album with Riddle.

I'd play Herb Alpert and some, but not all Tijuana Brass.

What's wrong with the Tijuana Brass?

I'd play Mathis, but include some newer stuff. Dion Warwick I'd be very careful with, but she did some great things, including a Cole Porter set.

What's wrong with Dionne Warwick?

Michael Buble' is the hottest thing going, Josh Groden, too.

I'd look for some great "turntable" songs. The Singers Unlimited" did versions of hits that sound like the best jingle packages out there and give a lift to your station. The Manhatten Transfer, Janet Siegal ... and others.

I'd stay clear of Lionel Richie or the perceived "Top 40" songs unless they were absolute must plays and fit the format... as standards. I might play "Three Times a Lady" ... maybe, and that's in frequent. There wouldn't be much else.

Definitely. I heard "Easy" this morning but I happen to like it. Even the nasty guitar solo. But I can do without him.

I'd be careful about Motown or early 60s stuff on both sides...no draggy Percy Faith or Conniff (maybe some of the up stuff, though) and I'd be very careful about the "standard" Top 40, again. If I play one Supremes song, that may be one too many. I will play the heck out of Good Morning Heartache and Touch Me in the Morning, by Diana Ross.

I like Percy Faith and Ray Conniff. I wish "Song From 'Moulin Rouge'" had been a pure instrumental because I don't like the vocal style on that song.

I do agree about The Supremes. They're just too loud. But "Theme from 'Mahogany'" and "Touch Me in the Morning" are great. Never mind what males who were surveyed said about that second one back in 1989 when our "Lite" station decided to go mainstream AC (we had beautiful music and what's now Dial Global as options).

The Lettermen, Vogues...absolutely. The Association...give 'em a rest.

Say what? I like "Never My Love" (another song bashed by males in that 1989 survey) and "Cherish".

Como? Sure...his up stuff.

All his music!

Nat Cole? Sure, no song better in my opinion than "That Sunday that Summer."

Would you believe Pointless Classics still plays that one? And I agree there are too many good ones to list that Dial Global plays all the time.

Middle of the road. I'd play George Benson's "This Masquerade" and "Breezin'." Probably some swingin' Count Basie, too. But I would be very careful with maybe one or two Al Jarreau at best. And great Ray Charles, but selective. Steve Lawrence, too.

For country crossover, sure, Campbell, a little Willie (Stardust & On the Road Again), Ray Price, Milsap, Crystal Gayle, Lynn Anderson...Anne Murray, sure.

For females, I'd play swingin' Ella, Streisand, very little Francis, Manchester...etc. Rosie Clooney and her jazz stuff and don't forget "Bye Bye Blackbird." And Eydie Gorme, especially her Bossa Nova stuff.

I'm trying to agree here. How can you be selective with Ray Charles? And what's wrong with Connie Francis?

Be just as selective on the instrumentals, but stay away from the 50s and early 60s as much as possible.

I like the instrumentals!

By culling through the wealth of music there, you'll be surprised at BOTH the breadth and depth of a library that you create and can sell that's both "adult" and "listenable" to young people.

KEZW in Denver does it well. Some of the Crawford stations, too. Our poster, Chuck, does it well most all the time.

The sat companies don't in many ways.

Don't try to be all things to all people. That's NOT what MOR radio means. It's "the middle of the road." But it sure sounds good.

Now...does anyone have a good clean copy of "A Man & A Woman" by Johnny Mann? I need a good copy of it and you will be forever in my debt.

 

[vchimpanzee]

I got used to seeing my post after I posted on cwtv.com, not the topic list. Imagine my surprise to see what I mess I made of my last post here when I went back to see if I was more accepting of some of Oaktree's ideas.

 

[RMarino]

oaktree... as a 32 year old male, (and adult standards fan) I will give you my opinion about your format.

>>You bet I want Sinatra at his very best, and then some. You bet I want Nancy Wilson, and then some. Jack Jones, too. Andy, Tony ... but not the draggy stuff. Not that I don't like Jerry Vale or Vic Damone, but we have to move past that.<<

The big hits I could dig, obscurities would lose me on these artists.


>>I'd not play big band except in a special "program" be it "Lunchtime with the Big Bands" or on Sundays, or something...but remove that from the "nostalgia" part of the equation.<<

Agreed. Big Bands are an important part and it's nice for them to be represented, but no longer in the regular format. A speciality show would be perfect.


>>I'd play the heck out of "Our Winter Love" by Bill Purcell (for a while.) I'd play Manilow, including his new "50s" CD, his "Showstoppers" CD and "Swing Street."<<

Yes the Bill Purcell song is great. Classic Manilow is great (I Write the Songs, Mandy, etc.) but the new stuff... no way! I can't stand these artists coming out of retirement to ruin classic songs. This is my main beef with MOYL these days. Too much new music, and most of it isn't good.


>>I'd play Bennett and Steve Wonder together and a very very very few Stevie Wonder songs. I can think of four off the top of my head.<<

A few Stevie songs would work. I'm guessing these are the four:
My Cherie Amour
Yester-me, Yester-you, Yesterday
I Just Called To Say I Love You
You Are The Sunshine of My Life

I'd be tempted to add "Overjoyed" too.


>>I'd play nothing from Chicago. I'd be selective about the Captain & Tennille and I'd be really really careful with anything from the Rod Stewart or Robert Palmer "Standards" CDs. But they'd be there.<<

The one Chicago song I can see fitting the format is "Colour My World." C&T would work. I wouldn't play ANYTHING from Rod Stewert or Robert palmer, old or new.


>>Ronstadt...from the "Trilogy" album with Riddle. <<

Never heard of it, but I would have to say probably not. I could see the following Ronstadt songs in the format:
Long, Long Time
Blue Bayou
What's New
Somewhere Out There
and the Aaron Neville duets (Don't Know Much, All My Life)
and possibly Oh, No Not My Baby


>>I'd play Herb Alpert and some, but not all Tijuana Brass. I'd play Mathis, but include some newer stuff. Dion Warwick I'd be very careful with, but she did some great things, including a Cole Porter set.>>

Herb solo and Tijuana are both good. As for Mathis, I haven't heard his new stuff, but I'd be surprised if is voice still holds up after all these years. Dionne Warwick has an entire catalog of hits useable for this format. Play it all!


>>Michael Buble' is the hottest thing going, Josh Groden, too.<<

Yuck and double yuck.. Let their fans buy their CDs, and leave these two off of what would be an otherwise great format.


>>I'd look for some great "turntable" songs. The Singers Unlimited" did versions of hits that sound like the best jingle packages out there and give a lift to your station. The Manhatten Transfer, Janet Siegal ... and others.<<

I'd be curious to hear this band. As for Manhatten Transfer, I love them, but I wouldn't play much of their catalog in this format


>>I'd stay clear of Lionel Richie or the perceived "Top 40" songs unless they were absolute must plays and fit the format... as standards. I might play "Three Times a Lady" ... maybe, and that's in frequent. There wouldn't be much else.<<

You want mass appeal don't you? Play Lionel. Play him "all night long." No, not that song, just my attempt at a bad pun ;D


>>I'd be careful about Motown or early 60s stuff on both sides<<

Again, mass appeal. What good is a station if it doesn't gain listeners. Yes, we radio people are sick my "My Girl." But your audience loves it. Play it!


>>...no draggy Percy Faith or Conniff (maybe some of the up stuff, though) and I'd be very careful about the "standard" Top 40, again.<<

I love Faith and Conniff. I don't know how well that stuff tests, but I dig it.


>>If I play one Supremes song, that may be one too many. I will play the heck out of Good Morning Heartache and Touch Me in the Morning, by Diana Ross.<<

Definately the only Supremes song I would add is "Someday, We'll Be Together."

Diana's additions to the format should be:
Touch Me In the Morning (I hate that song, but it's not all about my tastes)
Theme From Mahogany
Missing You
Endless Love
and possibly It's My Turn


>>The Lettermen, Vogues...absolutely. The Association...give 'em a rest.<<

Really, what's the difference between the Vogues and the Association?


>>Como? Sure...his up stuff. Nat Cole? Sure, no song better in my opinion than "That Sunday that Summer."<<

I'd play all the Como and Cole hits. They are definate core artists.


>>Middle of the road. I'd play George Benson's "This Masquerade" and "Breezin'." Probably some swingin' Count Basie, too. But I would be very careful with maybe one or two Al Jarreau at best. And great Ray Charles, but selective. Steve Lawrence, too.<<

I agree on all those points.


>>For country crossover, sure, Campbell, a little Willie (Stardust & On the Road Again), Ray Price, Milsap, Crystal Gayle, Lynn Anderson...Anne Murray, sure. <<

Yep, and Patsy Cline, and Brenda Lee too.


>>For females, I'd play swingin' Ella, Streisand, very little Francis, Manchester...etc. Rosie Clooney and her jazz stuff and don't forget "Bye Bye Blackbird." And Eydie Gorme, especially her Bossa Nova stuff.<<

Yes, as long as you are playing the hits, and not going obscure.


>>Be just as selective on the instrumentals, but stay away from the 50s and early 60s as much as possible.<<

Why? I love "Calcutta", "Poor People Of Paris", "Lisbon Antigua", "Autumn Leaves", "Moonglow", "Cherry Pink and Apple Blossom White", "Blue Tango", "Theme From A Summer Place", "Wonderland By Night"... all #1 hits by the way.


>>By culling through the wealth of music there, you'll be surprised at BOTH the breadth and depth of a library that you create and can sell that's both "adult" and "listenable" to young people.<<

Yep, it sounds good. Just don't be afraid to play the hits.

 

[Chuck]

oaktree... as a 32 year old male, (and adult standards fan) I will give you my opinion about your format.

<snip>

Yep, it sounds good. Just don't be afraid to play the hits.

While you make some interesting and relevant points, I think you are describing a hybrid "Soft AC, Oldies and Standards" station. Maybe people would really like it, but I have my doubts. It depends on what the competition is. If you are the only source for this kind of material, then your chances for success greatly increase. Even if people can't stand every third song you play, they are likely to tune in because they can't find anything they like any place else. But you can go overboard with variety to a degree that nobody is happy. And that is not good.

You have to recognize that most of the people who are attracted to this kind of music have other options, including satellite, CD's/ipods, talk radio, and worst of all, total silence. Amazing as it seems, a lot of people do not listen to radio. For a long time, I found that hard to believe, since I seldom endure any kind of silence. Evidentially, I’m in the minority. I can't tell you how many people in my area tell me that they had simply given up on radio until our station came along.

If you want to take a flyer on an unusual variation of the format, I'd be more interested in an "oldies & standards" station simply because there are a lot of soft AC stations out there. Why bother to compete with them?

As for the playing new songs, my experience is that people really like them. Michael Buble, Tony Bennett’s new stuff with a variety of artists not known for Standards, John Pizzarelli, Diana Krall, Natalie Cole, and even Rod Stewart (in moderation) are all very popular. Some of it is also very good too. We've chosen to play them. Your mileage may vary.

One thing I have figured out is to avoid the dreary stuff. There is a lot of very slow and not very pleasant songs that were very popular at one time, but they just doesn't hold up very well today. It seems that if a song is catchy enough so you can tap your toes, and after hearing it you can either hum a few bars, or at least remember some of the words, they you may have a winner. That sounds simple. Maybe it is.

 

[vchimpanzee]

oaktree... as a 32 year old male, (and adult standards fan) I will give you my opinion about your format.
>>I'd not play big band except in a special "program" be it "Lunchtime with the Big Bands" or on Sundays, or something...but remove that from the "nostalgia" part of the equation.<<

Agreed. Big Bands are an important part and it's nice for them to be represented, but no longer in the regular format. A speciality show would be perfect.

I guess. "Jazzology" airs on my Worthless Classics affiliate, and I was tuning to the NPR station Friday night so I'd be ready for "Car Talk".

>>I'd play the heck out of "Our Winter Love" by Bill Purcell (for a while.) I'd play Manilow, including his new "50s" CD, his "Showstoppers" CD and "Swing Street."<<

Yes the Bill Purcell song is great. Classic Manilow is great (I Write the Songs, Mandy, etc.) but the new stuff... no way! I can't stand these artists coming out of retirement to ruin classic songs. This is my main beef with MOYL these days. Too much new music, and most of it isn't good.

Agreed on the first two points. As for the last statement, I used to feel that way, but the instrumentals that go with the new performers are too good. Besides, some of the vocalists are great too.

>>I'd play Bennett and Steve Wonder together and a very very very few Stevie Wonder songs. I can think of four off the top of my head.<<

A few Stevie songs would work. I'm guessing these are the four:
My Cherie Amour
Yester-me, Yester-you, Yesterday
I Just Called To Say I Love You
You Are The Sunshine of My Life

I'd be tempted to add "Overjoyed" too.

I can't stand "I Just Called To Say I Love You", mainly because of the instrumentals.

>>I'd play nothing from Chicago. I'd be selective about the Captain & Tennille and I'd be really really careful with anything from the Rod Stewart or Robert Palmer "Standards" CDs. But they'd be there.<<

The one Chicago song I can see fitting the format is "Colour My World." C&T would work. I wouldn't play ANYTHING from Rod Stewert or Robert palmer, old or new.

I can't stand "Colour My World". One reason is the guy can't sing. "Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?" works for me, and the instrumenatls from "If You Leave Me Now", so I can reluctantly put up with that annoying Peter Cetera.

Rod Stewart grew on me. As for Robert Palmer, I never heard him do anything from the standards format. He seems to have a good voice from what I've heard on his loud stuff.

>>Ronstadt...from the "Trilogy" album with Riddle. <<

Never heard of it, but I would have to say probably not. I could see the following Ronstadt songs in the format:
Long, Long Time
Blue Bayou
What's New
Somewhere Out There
and the Aaron Neville duets (Don't Know Much, All My Life)
and possibly Oh, No Not My Baby

Anything, anything, anything Linda Ronstadt did that's actually standards. "Can't We Be Friends" and "What's New" are my favorites. I would reluctantly put up with the duets.

>>I'd play Herb Alpert and some, but not all Tijuana Brass. I'd play Mathis, but include some newer stuff. Dion Warwick I'd be very careful with, but she did some great things, including a Cole Porter set.>>

Herb solo and Tijuana are both good. As for Mathis, I haven't heard his new stuff, but I'd be surprised if is voice still holds up after all these years. Dionne Warwick has an entire catalog of hits useable for this format. Play it all!

I'd go along with all of this.

>>Michael Buble' is the hottest thing going, Josh Groden, too.<<

Yuck and double yuck.. Let their fans buy their CDs, and leave these two off of what would be an otherwise great format.

he's good, and so are the instrumentals with him.

>>I'd look for some great "turntable" songs. The Singers Unlimited" did versions of hits that sound like the best jingle packages out there and give a lift to your station. The Manhatten Transfer, Janet Siegal ... and others.<<

I'd be curious to hear this band. As for Manhatten Transfer, I love them, but I wouldn't play much of their catalog in this format

I'm sure I'd like anything from Manhattan Transfer.

>>I'd stay clear of Lionel Richie or the perceived "Top 40" songs unless they were absolute must plays and fit the format... as standards. I might play "Three Times a Lady" ... maybe, and that's in frequent. There wouldn't be much else.<<

You want mass appeal don't you? Play Lionel. Play him "all night long." No, not that song, just my attempt at a bad pun ;D

Not me.

>>I'd be careful about Motown or early 60s stuff on both sides<<

Again, mass appeal. What good is a station if it doesn't gain listeners. Yes, we radio people are sick my "My Girl." But your audience loves it. Play it!

I don't like Motown. Too loud.

>>...no draggy Percy Faith or Conniff (maybe some of the up stuff, though) and I'd be very careful about the "standard" Top 40, again.<<

I love Faith and Conniff. I don't know how well that stuff tests, but I dig it.

Me too. "Delicado" is one that could appeal to rock and roll fans who enjoyed "The Addams Family". But I like the violin instrumentals too.

>>If I play one Supremes song, that may be one too many. I will play the heck out of Good Morning Heartache and Touch Me in the Morning, by Diana Ross.<<

Definately the only Supremes song I would add is "Someday, We'll Be Together."

Diana's additions to the format should be:
Touch Me In the Morning (I hate that song, but it's not all about my tastes)
Theme From Mahogany
Missing You
Endless Love
and possibly It's My Turn
[/quote] These are good. And I like "Touch Me In The Morning".

>>The Lettermen, Vogues...absolutely. The Association...give 'em a rest.<<

Really, what's the difference between the Vogues and the Association?

>>Como? Sure...his up stuff. Nat Cole? Sure, no song better in my opinion than "That Sunday that Summer."<<

I'd play all the Como and Cole hits. They are definate core artists.

Definitely. I heard "Magic Moments" on Dial Global this morning. Fun song, especially because of the bassoon.

>>Middle of the road. I'd play George Benson's "This Masquerade" and "Breezin'." Probably some swingin' Count Basie, too. But I would be very careful with maybe one or two Al Jarreau at best. And great Ray Charles, but selective. Steve Lawrence, too.<<

I agree on all those points.

Me too, except for selective Ray Charles. Is there anything that man shouldn't do?

>>For country crossover, sure, Campbell, a little Willie (Stardust & On the Road Again), Ray Price, Milsap, Crystal Gayle, Lynn Anderson...Anne Murray, sure. <<

Yep, and Patsy Cline, and Brenda Lee too.


>>For females, I'd play swingin' Ella, Streisand, very little Francis, Manchester...etc. Rosie Clooney and her jazz stuff and don't forget "Bye Bye Blackbird." And Eydie Gorme, especially her Bossa Nova stuff.<<

Yes, as long as you are playing the hits, and not going obscure.

I like Connie Francis!

>>Be just as selective on the instrumentals, but stay away from the 50s and early 60s as much as possible.<<

Why? I love "Calcutta", "Poor People Of Paris", "Lisbon Antigua", "Autumn Leaves", "Moonglow", "Cherry Pink and Apple Blossom White", "Blue Tango", "Theme From A Summer Place", "Wonderland By Night"... all #1 hits by the way.

Definitely!

 

[hammondo]

>>I'd play the heck out of "Our Winter Love" by Bill Purcell (for a while.)

Anybody who uses "Selector" to program their music (as all the satellite services do) is probably "resting" Our Winter Love for the Summer months, and playing "Summer Place."

The Sinatra songs too, are different in the Autumn (like "Old Black Magic" plays more) and Winter months than they are in Spring and Summer. They have several rotations of Frank that play.

Strangers in the Night and (Domenico Modugno, Volare) were once on DAILY rotation.

At Dial Global, I'm SURE Chick's minions follow his instructions for
all that to happen. Dial Global is perfect in every way.

 

[oaktree]

RMarino...what a wonderful, enlightening post. I appreciate you very much.

And to everyone else who put your thinking caps on ... GREAT JOB and superb input.

I'd love to produce this format for everyone posting here. With your input, it would be a blast!

Again, Mr. Marino -- stay young and keep listening to "the hits."

Best - oaktree

 

[oaktree]

Sorry about the back-to-back, but I must disagree with my friend, Hammondo...

Dial Global perfect? Chick better get his minions to re-think the Selector.

Today: 3pm Pacific

CNN News

Since I Don't Have You - Lenny Welch
Goodbye to Love - Carpenters
Alone Again Naturally - Gilbert O'Sullivan
Call Me Irresponsible - Jack Jones

Forget, for a moment, that we actually had only "1" standard in the bunch ... Jack Jones. OK, Lenny Welch might qualify, but still...

Listen in your head... Slow, Slow, boringly Slow, dreamy slow, Zzzzzzzzzz

And it's not the first time. I heard this kind of stuff all weekend. Zzzzzzzz.

I almost drove off the road laughing when daydreaming through the Gilbert O'Sullivan song, remembering the scene in Leslie Nielson's "Naked Gun 2" movie, where he opens the door and over the intro of Mathis "Misty" ... the jock says, "For all you really depressed people out there ... here's Johnny Mathis..."

I'm still raving over the great comments you all made in the previous post. That's why I'm here on this board ... to see the bright minds that gather here.

Chuck, I elect you president of the Adult Standards fan club. Vchimpanzee, vp, RMarino, secretary/treasurer and I'll rotate with the rest of you as Research and Development Dept. supervisor. Wow...!

Incidentally, I think "What'd I Say" by Ray Charles is a mistake in this format...imho.