The WLS Silver Dollar Surveys Vol 9. 1960-1963: CHICAGO AUTHENTIC RADIO RECORD SURVEY (WLS Sixties)

Vol. 9. WLS Silver Dollar Survey – Mid-America’s Bright New Soundchronicles the history and significance of the WLS Silver Dollar Survey in Chicago's Top 40 radio evolution from 1960 to 1963. Rise of Top 40 Radio Format WLS transitioned from agricultural programming to Top 40 rock and roll in 1960. WLS became a leading Top 40 station in Chicago with a powerful 50,000-watt signal. The first DJs included Mort Crowley, Dick Biondi, and Ron Riley, among others. The Silver Dollar Survey served as a marketing tool connecting WLS with its audience. It included song rankings, artist information, and featured a "Jock of the Week." Surveys were distributed for free at record outlets and promotional events, fostering community engagement. Get WLS’ Official Play List - Be Tuned to Chicago’s Most Popular & Latest Hits Silver Dollar Survey, first issued on October 14, 1960, listed the top 40 songs weekly and was integral to the rise of Chicago's Top 40 radio. The survey became a cultural artifact reflecting the tastes of 1960s youth culture and solidified WLS's position as a dominant voice in rock and roll, creating a sense of community. Its presence in local music scenes highlighted the survey's impact on shaping musical tastes. About The Author Rich Gardner is a passionate music enthusiast who has been deeply connected to radio and music since the 1960s. His love for music began in childhood when he listened to WLS-AM 890 and WCFL, often accompanying his father in the family car. This early exposure sparked a lifelong hobby of collecting phonographs, records, music surveys, and memorabilia. Rich actively pursued his passion by collecting WLS Surveys from the 1970s through the 1980s, compiling his own lists from countdown shows, and placing ads in the Chicago Reader during the 1980s to locate older surveys. He went to great lengths to preserve and recreate missing surveys using modern technology, demonstrating his dedication to documenting and sharing the history of Chicago radio and music for others to enjoy.
ASIN: B0F7GKC92B
VSKU: BVV.B0F7GKC92B.G
Condition: Good
Author/Artist:Gardner, Rich
Binding: Paperback
Note: Any images shown are stock photographs and product may differ from what is shown.
Condition Notes: The item shows wear from consistent use, but it remains in good condition and works perfectly. All pages and cover are intact including the dust cover, if applicable . Spine may show signs of wear. Pages may include limited notes and highlighting. May NOT include discs, access code or other supplemental materials.