Happy 50th Harley

I love 80’s music.  It’s probably because I grew up Augusta during that time and some of my fondest memories were listening to powerhouse Top 40 radio station WBBQ and “Handsome” Harley Drew.  And so you know, I wasn’t alone.  In fact, WBBQ was considered one of most influential radio stations in the U.S. at the time because of the large audience, despite its market’s size.  And while we could talk about all of the wonderful talent who graced the BBQ airwaves, it was Harley whose voice was most recognized.  I actually remember seeing a first-run movie at Masters Cinemas (when there four different theaters inside!) and seeing a “commercial” for WBBQ voiced by Harley.  That was not a common sight back then.  And how about your WBBQ card?  Still have one in your catch-all drawer?

These days, Harley is waking up many from that same generation on our news partner, WGAC News-Talk 580.  And for the past several weeks, you’ve been hearing about the celebration surrounding Harley’s 50 years in the business - and deservedly so.  If that wasn’t special enough, Harley has dedicated his life and his family to this community.  Try to think of another citizen’s 50 year commitment to our community.  James Brown comes to mind.  Anybody else?

Even a recent heart surgery couldn’t keep him from this important milestone.  If you’re a local, I hope you’ll take a moment this week to reflect on the special gift Harley has given us all over the years.  Call him.  Write him.  Let him know how much you appreciate him.  Maybe if we’re really on our best behavior, he’ll give us another 50 years.

Thank you so much Harley!

Harley Memory: Okay, I’d be remiss if I didn’t share this, as sort of a post-script.  The song “We Built This City” by the 80’s band Starship (I know, I know) used to have a “disc jockey” bridge.  In it, the DJ shared a traffic report and sort of chatted up the station “by the bay.“  Local radio stations, according to Wikipedia, were encouraged to replace the one in the recording with their own talent.  Harley did this for us and when that song played (and it played A LOT), I fondly remember thinking how cool it was to hear a local person’s voice in a top 40 hit.  So if you’re able to find a copy of it, let me know Harley!