Some days I can't wait to begin typing. And some days I don't have a lot to say. I'd rather sit and simply listen.
It's tough to blog on those days.
Instead, I would rather point you in the direction of someone who has a great deal to share.
I don't know if you have met TheWhistler yet? But even if you have missed the mention MiMi gave her work here some time ago, her avatar will be familiar to many. The dog and the gramophone... the tale of "his master's voice" that was the origin of the name of a major music retailer here in the UK and in Canada. It is an apt choice for a writer who shares with us her passion for old time radio.
The recordings shared by TheWhistler (converted to a handy MP3 format) are from a golden era, when radiowaves ruled and family entertainment involved gathering around the wireless and listening to some of the greatest voice talents acting or narrating some of the best writing to be found.
Of all the electronic media that have made their indelible mark on the world, radio came with few precedents. Radio personalized events, made them more intimate, more real. Radio engaged us emotionally and brought us closer together as a nation. Radio marked the first instant medium shared collectively by millions.
In this impressive collection which has been so lovingly curated and shared with a new audience, you can find everything from great classics of literature to comedy, and sensationalist crime drama to genuine political broadcasts from events such as D-Day.
It is a difficult task indeed to choose here a single topic from the 60+ that TheWhistler offers for our entertainment. However, since Halloween is approaching, let me suggest an Old Time Radio Flier to match: Halloween OTR. From The Jack Benny Show and Lucille Ball to Orson Welles, you will discover here a host of radio stars with Halloween tales to chill the blood... or maybe just tickle your funny bones.
For a delightfully different Halloween experience, why not select a few that appeal to you. Then, as TheWhistler suggests, turn out the lights, take a seat and listen to these voices of the past.
Can't say enough good things about TheWhistler. Listening in, it's hard not to become a fan of old-time radio. The works are stellar. It would be such a shame if every man and woman didn't get their chance to experience it. ...Great review, Nicki!
ReplyDeleteTheWhistler certainly has found his niche in old time radio. I had no idea there were so many Halloween type shows that could be listened to. Thanks for sharing this, Nicki. I sure will miss your unique voice at Squidoo Lens Reviews.
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