In the summer of 1978, I got my first job in radio.
I was the nighttime and weekend DJ at KOKA AM 1550 in Shreveport, LA.
Here is the building that housed the station.
I also read a little more history of the buidling.
"The 1959 dedication of the KOKA Radio Station building on Milam Street
drew a crowd of 10,000 locals, as well as appearances by national
celebrities. Beloved KOKA personalities such as Sunrose 'Gay Poppa'
Rutledge, Jr., Willie 'Uncle Bill' Caston, and B.B. 'Bird Brain' Davis provided
entertainment and information in a format that included gospel and
rhythm and blues."
source: Louisiana Regional Folklife Programs
KOKA was Shreveport's first black owned and
operated radio station and where many locals got their first exposure to
Blues, Rhythm and Blues, Gospel, Soul and Funk.
And I still appreciate Gay Poppa for giving me my first shot in the business.
 |
| Soul Brother #1, James Brown drops by KOKA in 1967 to chat with 'Uncle Bill' (left) and 'Gay Poppa' (center). |
