The formation of Top 40 radio began with a man named Todd Storz. He watched soldiers playing the same songs over and over again on a jukebox one night when the idea struck him - repetition was the key to radio success! People only wanted to hear the songs that they liked and were familiar with. Todd Storz started using Top 40 radio at KOWH. (See my Todd Storz link!) However, not everyone was thrilled with the new format. Many DJ's felt it took away their freedom as a radio personality. It also made it more difficult for new bands to get their music played on air. It became very important to recording artists that their songs make the Top 40. Payola was another problem. Many DJ's were excepting money in exchange for playing their songs. (See my Alan Freed link!) Many artists however used Top 40 to their advantage. (Check my links!) Top 40 format died down when FM radio became more dominant than AM. However, Top 40 billboard charts continued to play an important role in a musicians popularity. Song writers were given credit for writing chart topper songs. Some famous song writers were also performers such as John Lennon, Paul McCartney, Bob Dylan and Mick Jagger. (See my artists links!) Top 40 radio countdown gained new found popularity in the '70's with Casey Kasems Top 40 countdown radio show in which he introduced "teaser bios". Top 40 has shaped American popular music and the way in which musical stars can gain status in the profession. (See my Casey Kasem link!)
My Links
Famous DJ Alan Freed
Todd Storz Page! Good info and great pics!
Casey Kasem and Top 40 Countdown
The Beatles
The Beatles Again!
Elvis Presley
The Dells
Mick Jagger and the Rolling Stones!
Bob Dylan
Brian Wilson and the Beach Boys!
Holland-Dozier-Holland and Motown
