In a recent opinion piece on Arkansas Online, Curtis Varnell discusses the popularity of radio compared to television in Arkansas during the 1950s and 1960s. Varnell reminisces about his childhood memories of gathering around the radio with his family to listen to programs like “The Grand Ole Opry” and “The Lone Ranger.” He describes how radio played a significant role in the lives of Arkansans during this time, providing entertainment, news, and a sense of connection to the outside world.
Varnell highlights the sense of intimacy and imagination that radio offered, as listeners were able to create their own images of the stories being told through sound. He notes that radio personalities like Paul Harvey and Orson Welles became household names and were able to captivate audiences through their storytelling abilities. Varnell also acknowledges the importance of radio in shaping cultural identities and promoting local talent, such as musicians and broadcasters.
While television eventually took over as the dominant form of media in the following decades, Varnell argues that radio still holds a special place in the hearts of many Arkansans. He believes that the nostalgia and memories associated with listening to radio programs in the past continue to resonate with people today.
Overall, Varnell’s piece serves as a tribute to the golden age of radio and a reminder of the lasting impact this medium had on the people of Arkansas. Through his personal anecdotes and insights, he sheds light on the unique and enduring appeal of radio in the hearts and minds of those who grew up listening to it during the ’50s and ’60s.
Source
Photo credit news.google.com