Martin Block – The Man who Popularized Ballroom Music on Radio Back in the 1930s in America, none had believed that radio could be used for anything else other than airing news bulletin. People tuned into radio largely because they would want a reliable source of information to acquaint themselves with the domestic and worldwide affairs. But that would often get monotonous that provided no recreation whatsoever. Besides, the restrictions put forward by the Federal Communications Commission and “No license Policy” by the musicians blurred the scope of incorporating music in radio programs. Despite the odds, Martin Block, known as the first disc jockey in the USA, went ahead and played the music records between the news bulletin. With Americans welcoming the change, Martin was now inspired to begin his full-fledged show. And this way, Make Believe Ballroom was first aired on 3rd February 1935. You can once again listen to such energizing tracks on the ballroom music radio station in the USA! But, for now, let us talk about the contributions of Martin Block, the most dynamic disc jockey America has ever seen.
Initial Career and Inspiration It was in Mexico where Block started his radio career. Later in Los Angeles, he worked as a junior assistant to Al Jarvis, an announcer at KFWB. Interestingly, the idea of playing music records on radio programs was originally conceived by Jarvis. However, its span and popularity were restricted to Los Angeles. While working at WNEW, Martin Block transplanted the same idea to his radio show and the rest is history! As Martin spun the music records, an illusion was created - an illusion of artists giving live performances in the studio! It appeared as if the program was broadcasted directly from the ballrooms. Since the stations did not have any records, Martin had to buy them on his own. Not only did he play McCoy records, but he also selected the track “Sugar Blues” for his show’s theme song. Want to enjoy more tracks by Clyde McCoy? Explore old time radio recording USA on Swing Street Radio today. At the top of the popularity Although the show was started as a filler between court proceedings, it soon garnered huge attention and attracted thousands of song requests. As a result, its few minutes' duration was stretched to two and a half hours show, which played exciting ballroom numbers. Despite starting without any sponsorships, Block and his show became a brand that top advertisers could not wait to invest in. According to a report, an ad-libbed commercial by Block helped the company sell 300 refrigerators. Block collaborated with the Swing superstar Glenn Miller in writing a hit number, “I guess I’ll Have to Dream the Rest”. Have you not heard this track? Tune into big band swing music radio station and enjoy this track along with many more hits. Well, this is not the end. Martin Block became so popular and a formidable personality in the radio industry that his decision to endorse or not to endorse a band could seal the fate of it in the market. Association with swing artists and a new phase Glenn Miller composed “Make Believe Ballroom”, which went on to become Block’s show’s new theme song. In 1940, Block hosted a hit jam session that featured several swing artists like Count Basie, Dorsey Brothers, and Harry James. Moreover, “Saturday Night in Harlem”, a segment of the main show, again featured swing legends such as Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, and Cab Calloway. Apart from his megahit show at WNEW, Martin Block was the announcer at The Chesterfield Supper Club, hosted a program for “Block Party” and a music show for CBS. In 1956, Martin Block left “Make Believe Ballroom” and began a new phase by hosting “The Martin Block Show” at ABC Radio. Conclusion – Martin Blocked excelled as a disc jockey in his career, which spanned from the mid1930s to the late 1960s. His easygoing style of announcement hit a chord with the audiences. On one hand, he appealed to millions of Americans and shaped their listening habits. On the other hand, Martin played a significant role in building craze around music artists and their records thereby enhancing their popularity. The legend breathed his last in 1967.
Do you want to experience the ballroom music days? Enjoying live-like music is a different feeling all together! So, to enjoy old time radio recording the USA, tune into Swing Street Radio or download its mobile app today.
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