Quacks, Yodelers, Pitchmen, Psychics, and Other Amazing Broadcasters of the Golden Age of Radio

The golden age of radio was a time of great innovation and creativity. New technologies allowed broadcasters to reach a wider audience than ever before, and they took advantage of this opportunity to experiment with new formats and programming. As a result, the airwaves were filled with a wide variety of shows, from comedy to drama to music to news. And among the most popular shows were those that featured quacks, yodelers, pitchmen, psychics, and other amazing broadcasters.

Quacks

Border Radio: Quacks, Yodelers, Pitchmen, Psychics, and Other Amazing Broadcasters of the American Airwaves, Revised Edition

by Gene Fowler

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9943 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	481 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Quacks were a common sight on the airwaves during the golden age of radio. These self-proclaimed doctors promised to cure everything from the common cold to cancer, and they often used outrageous claims and testimonials to sell their products. One of the most famous quacks was Dr. John R. Brinkley, who claimed to have developed a revolutionary new treatment for impotence. Brinkley's show was so popular that he was able to build a massive empire, which included a hospital, a radio station, and a pharmaceutical company. However, Brinkley's claims were eventually exposed as fraudulent, and he was forced to give up his practice.

Yodelers

Yodeling was a popular form of music during the golden age of radio, and there were a number of yodelers who became stars. One of the most famous yodelers was Jimmie Rodgers, who was known as the "Father of Country Music." Rodgers's yodeling was so distinctive that it became one of his trademarks, and he helped to popularize the genre. Other popular yodelers included Hank Snow, Roy Rogers, and Patsy Montana.

Pitchmen

Pitchmen were another common sight on the airwaves during the golden age of radio. These salesmen used their persuasive skills to sell a wide variety of products, from household goods to beauty products to investment opportunities. One of the most famous pitchmen was Arthur Godfrey, who hosted a popular radio show that featured a variety of products. Godfrey was known for his smooth talking and his ability to make even the most mundane products sound appealing.

Psychics

Psychics were another popular type of broadcaster during the golden age of radio. These self-proclaimed psychics claimed to have the ability to communicate with the dead, predict the future, and perform other supernatural feats. One of the most famous psychics was Edgar Cayce, who claimed to have received visions from God. Cayce's show was so popular that he was able to build a large following, and he became one of the most influential psychics of the 20th century.

Other Amazing Broadcasters

In addition to the quacks, yodelers, pitchmen, and psychics, there were a number of other amazing broadcasters who graced the airwaves during the golden age of radio. These broadcasters included comedians, musicians, news reporters, and sports commentators. Some of the most famous broadcasters of the era included:

• Jack Benny, comedian
• Fred Allen, comedian
• Amos 'n' Andy, comedy team
• Bing Crosby, singer
• Frank Sinatra, singer
• Edward R. Murrow, news reporter
• Walter Winchell, news reporter
• Red Barber, sports commentator
• Graham McNamee, sports commentator

These are just a few of the many amazing broadcasters who helped to make the golden age of radio such a special time. These broadcasters entertained, informed, and inspired their audiences, and they played a major role in shaping American culture.

Border Radio: Quacks, Yodelers, Pitchmen, Psychics, and Other Amazing Broadcasters of the American Airwaves, Revised Edition

by Gene Fowler

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9943 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	481 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE