Radio Programming Legend Passes. Pop Culture History.

January 22, 2011

Mr. Pop History – Ruth Meyer – one of the early pioneering top-40 radio programmers and who paved the way for women in the media – has passed away.

Ruth took radio station WMCA NY to the top of the ratings during the Beatles-era of the 1960′s, despite having the lowest wattage (and coverage area) of her immediate competitors. This was a time when women in any kind of media management were unheard of – but Ruth not only was the programming boss – she managed 7 (male) on-hair DJ’s and the total direction of the station.

More about Ruth Meyer here, in an upcoming interview with legendary NY personality Harry Harrison.

Gary West – www.mrpopculture.com    www.mrpophistory.com

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Beatles Question. Pop Culture History – Week-By-Week.

July 20, 2010

From Adam G – What was the only Beatles album released with nada a Beatles single?

Mr. Pop History – It was intentional – and another reason why this album was so unique. It was 1967′s “Sgt. Pepper.” Not one single was released. It was a total album concept. For all those who remember – “All You Need Is Love” was the summer 1967 by the Beatles.

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From Rich A – When did Vee Jay records finally shut its doors (exact day please?). There seems to be mis-information out there.

November 24, 2009

Mr. Pop History – Vee Jay Records – Once home to the 4 Seasons and… The Beatles. Long reported to be in trouble financially, the American Federation of Musicians severed its licensing agreement with the label on October 12, 1965 and the very next day, Vee Jay Records – then 11 years old, died.

Vee Jay started out in Chicago, but with all the Beatle activity and a flood of cash, moved to Los Angeles in 1964. Beatle activity? It wasn’t supposed to happen – but it did as this small label was thrust among giants in early 1964. Vee Jay – for all practical purposes, released more than several Beatles records, plus an album (which was re-packaged at least five times). It’s an amazing story – one of my favorite in the colorful world of record labels – and pop culture history.
Vee Jay

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From Roseanne R – Mr. Pop – I was having a discussion with friends about the Beatles and their first album, “Meet the Beatles.” Didn’t Brian Epstein, their manager, design their distinctive outfits?

October 12, 2009

Mr. Pop History – Ever image conscious, Brian Epstein had London tailor Dougie Millings design those famous round-collared suits. Epstein told Millings he wanted something as distinctive as (Cliff Richard’s) distinctive white suit, “only different.” Richards was one of England’s pop rock acts at the time. Millings and his son, Gordon – made 500 outfits for the Beatles. From what I know, his son continues to operate the family tailoring business Dougie Millings with the Beatles

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