Saturday, July 12, 2008

Dick Buckley

No, he hasn't died. But soon Chicago radio won't be the same. Today I heard the sad news that Dick Buckley's 30-year career at WBEZ (91.5) will end with a special two-hour show July 27. Word has it that he will play some of his favorite music and talk about his remarkable run in jazz radio, which began here in 1955. He will be missed. He's been a one-man education in jazz.

If you'd like to read an old interview with him, click here.

Since the 2006 elimination of most WBEZ music shows, Buckley's continuing show has been a gift. Considering the serious health problems he's faced and his age (over 80), I've been grateful for every day that he's remained on the air.

if you're not in Chicago and you've never experienced his show, you have a few more chances to check it out online before it's gone - Sunday afternoons from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. Central time.

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