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The Birth of a Variety Show: WEAF Radio and the Eveready Hour

Introducing the Eveready Hour

The Launch of WEAF Radio

The Eveready Hour debuted on October 24, 1923, as a pioneering radio program aired by WEAF Radio, one of the first radio stations in the United States. Owned by the American Telephone and Telegraph Company (AT&T), WEAF distinguished itself as a leader in radio broadcasting, focusing on both entertainment and commercial success.

Details of the Eveready Hour

The Eveready Hour was notable for its variety show format. It included a mix of musical performances, comedy sketches, and dramatic readings. The program aimed to provide a wholesome entertainment experience, attracting a wide audience in the era when radio was becoming a staple in American households.

A New Era of Entertainment

Impact on Radio Broadcasting

The Eveready Hour not only entertained listeners but also set the standard for future radio programming. With its successful blend of different entertainment styles, the show influenced many subsequent broadcasts and solidified the format of variety shows in radio history.

Culture and Radio Audience

In the 1920s, radio was revolutionizing how the public consumed entertainment. The Eveready Hour played a crucial role in this transformation, captivating audiences and bringing families together around the radio. It marked a significant moment where traditional entertainment transitioned into the digital age.

Fun Fact

The Remarkable Reach of the Eveready Hour

At its peak, the Eveready Hour was broadcast to millions of listeners across the United States, showcasing how powerful radio had become as a medium of entertainment and communication during the early 20th century.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Radio History

To explore more about this fascinating era in radio history, consider reading "On the Air: The Encyclopedia of Old-Time Radio" by Gerald Nachman and "Radio's Golden Age: The Network Radio Programmers" by Charles E. Montague. These works delve deeper into the influence of radio shows, including iconic programs like the Eveready Hour.