Sunday, November 25, 2012

The Lost Art of Monologue

One of the many reasons I love radio is to hear a good monologue.

At least when we're able to hear one. It's become a lost art, not just on radio but TV too. Carson was the master, the king provocateur of words whose comedic genius resonated on national TV four nights a week.

On radio, the late Paul Harvey was a craft wordsmith able to translate the spoken word like a genius musician.

I've often written that Michael Savage; no matter what you think of his politics, (which really isn't the main part of his show), has a supreme monologue, devoid of any sound drops and spoken often in brilliant, occasionally deeply compelling radio tones. It's an acquired taste, granted, but just listen and learn.

One element of my new radio show, (which airs every Saturday and Sunday night from 8-11 PM), is a monologue. I'm never at a loss for words, which is both my best attribute and worst characteristic. That sounds like a contradiction but it really isn't. Give a listen.

NOTE: Several of you were not able to hear portions or virtually all of the debut show on Saturday. My apologies. As with new electronic projects come expected and unexpected glitches. The owner and engineers are aware of the situation and assured me they're going to fix it. And just as soon as I get a reliable link, I'll post it. Again, apologies to all.

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6 comments:

  1. Funny that you should mention Michael Savage's monologue skills. I accidentally caught about ten minutes of it off of KOH (Reno) last night, at around 8:45 pm.

    You're right. Savage was recounting a story about connecting with a local black minister in our area, who ministers to and feeds the needy. Along the way, he also delved into some of his own family history from his childhood in NYC.

    It was a very moving account to listen to. And it made it very clear that, whatever other political and social issues he might have, Savage is no racist. In fact, he was invited by the minister to come serve food to the needy at his ministry. And from the sound of what Savage described in the monologue, he accepted the offer.

    So, though I'm no fan of his political leanings and invective, nor an apologist for some of his other actions, I do clearly understand your point about his monologue skills.

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  2. Monologues can be monotonous no matter how well it is presented but is good back up when callers are hard to get. I like to hear callers above any monologues. Gill Gross is pretty good monologger too especially on his Real Estate Show. Good luck with your Regular Show.
    Here is the link (Listen Live) MZ (Michael Zwerling) was talking about: http://1340komy.com !

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  3. Lowell as a guest or Kawakami? I don't agree often-but he's a interesting prima dona isn't he?
    Leslie Schirraco--she's funny and down to earth.

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  4. Monologue is not the same thing as rambling. A successful monologue requires preparation to make sure you make a thoughful, well reasoned, and succinct point. I hope this is what you are able to deliver, otherwise, listeners will turn the dial if you just ramble.

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  5. paul harvey?

    the greatest radio monologuer will always be...jean shepard

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  6. Gene Burns was my favorite. I miss Gene Burns, I never ever missed the open of his show.

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