Goodbye BOS
LAST BACKSPIN SHOW TODAY!!! FRIDAY 9 - 10:00 AM
The music: the Wildweeds
The movie: Abu brings the News
Dateline: Thursday (8-17) Globe headline reads, "BOS Pulls Plug on Laquidara"
Since I made the decision to resign with 6 months still left on my contract (for reasons that may or may not be eventually disclosed here-in) The Glob (sic) headline should have read:
"Laquidara Pulls Plug on BOS"
Bottom Line: Mutual parting of ways. I know it's a trivial point, but the Glab really should have got it right the first time.
Dateline: Saturday (8-19) The Glib printed a "retraction" the next day- which was smug and did not clarify the error.
So- I wrote them a letter which they printed Thursday:
Dateline:Thursday (8-24)
Globe Letters to Editor
And now a word from 'Back Spin' DJ
August 24, 2006
Sirs:
YOUR AUG. 19 correction of the Aug. 17 Radio Tracks headline was as confusing as the original headline, "
WBOS pulls plug on Laquidara's 'Back Spin'. " The phrase ``mutual parting of the ways" in the column was just plain wrong and misleading. With six months left to go on my contract, I resigned -- end of story. Just because WBOS accepted my resignation (not that they had any other choice) does not automatically mean the word "mutual" comes into play.
For example, if someone who was working for your paper quit because that person did not agree with your policy -- and you had no intention of letting him or her go -- you would not use the word "mutual" simply because you were forced to accept the fact that the person resigned.
As the column reported," you write in your correction, ``WBOS and Laquidara together agreed to end the show." Not true. I resigned, and WBOS didn't sue me. That's my story, and I'm sticking to it.
CHARLES LAQUIDARA
Maui, Hawaii
Dateline:Monday(8-28)
Spies reveal new Spin on ’BOS parting By Gayle Fee and Laura Raposa at the Boston Herald Monday, August 28, 2006 - Updated: 12:50 AM EST
Don’t breathe a word of this. Because nobody’s supposed to know. But the real reason Charles Laquidara and WBOS parted ways was because the station believed the Boston radio legend was being too political - and he wouldn’t sit for censorship. Laquidara resigned his gig as host of a daily one-hour music show called “Back Spin” after catching heat from station suits for airing his way-left-of-center views on the prez, the war, etc. Our spies in the studio say that after Laquidara played Neil Young’s new tune “Impeach the President,” he was reprimanded by his boss, who told him something along the lines of “We don’t do politics, we don’t do news, we rarely do interviews and we don’t do controversy. We’re an oasis for our listeners.” Begging the question: Why, oh why then did they retain the services of the outspoken ex-WBCN jock? “If they hired Charles thinking all he would do is introduce songs, well then, they didn’t do their homework,” said one industry insider. Laquidara also was reportedly peeved when a bit he did on a phone call he got from his ultra-conservative brother reading him the riot act for defending the French was drastically edited by someone in the ’BOS control booth. “It was originally about 40 seconds and they cut it to about four seconds,” said Someone Who Knows. “It just sounded stupid.” After that, Laquidara went all Howard Stern, telling the station that they couldn’t edit anything he sent them - they could just decline to run it. (The DJ, who retired from Boston radio a few years ago and moved to Hawaii, was prerecording the 9-to-10 a.m. show.) When the station suits objected to the edit edict, Laquidara resigned. We rang up Charles to get his take on the matter, but all he would say was: “The music I was forced to play made me sleepy.” Charles said he would like to leave the door open to work for Greater Media in the future. (His former boss at WZLX, Buzz Knight, is vice president of program development there.) Greater Media cheese Peter Smyth said he “never heard the political line,” and said the station and Laquidara parted company because ’BOS decided to extend the station’s “Music Morning” - an announcer-less format - into the 9 a.m. hour. “Charles is a great guy,” he added. File Under: Back Pain.
Comments
Charles, I'm sad to hear this. I really enjoy listening to your show. It really does appeal to the music lover that I am. Do you have to leave? I don't understand at all.
Posted by: Yvonne Christian | August 18, 2006 12:40 PM
Chuck, I liked Back Spin and will miss it but it didn't have your free-wheelin' style as on Mana'o. I remember Stephen Stills had a line: "I don't do business, that don't make me smile". I think that fits.
Posted by: mike from mass. | August 18, 2006 1:32 PM
I heard you say something about calling it a day with Backspin on the Schnauzer Logic podcast some time ago.Judging by how well each show is put together and the time involved,I guess it would bite into "retirement" a little .I have to agree with Mike above that it isn't the same as your freeform gig but enjoyable just the same. Anything else in the works??
Posted by: Jeff M. | August 18, 2006 2:22 PM
I'm jazzed you've broken free of your 'BOS Man' chains Charles. It was wonderful having you back everyday here in the Boston Area. But I could tell your heart wasn't in it. Imagine a Radio Legend like you being told what songs to play! Idiots! All of 'em. Hurumph!
Besides, this Breaking News- Frees your time up to take on another day or 2 of Mana'o Free Form Radio shows... Right? Yah! When do you start? : )))
Posted by: LadyArtist444 | August 18, 2006 2:34 PM
Excellent timing, Charles. Now you can devote more time to the Maui Patriots and the fantasy football league !
Posted by: CathyR | August 18, 2006 2:47 PM
Charles,
Glad to hear it, Streamed it a couple of times and because of the Constraints it Really Sucked. Your Manao Radio Show on Wednesday's is really an indication of your greatness as arguably one of the Greatest DJ's that ever lived!!!
Posted by: Danny | August 18, 2006 5:11 PM
Hey Charles: was not able to listen much -office hours.. but BOS plays way too many commercials to be enjoyable anyway.. stick to the blog! you (Dems) have a big election coming up!!! and the boggie-man W is still in office..
Posted by: Bill the Republican | August 19, 2006 1:30 AM
I enjoyed hearing your voice everyday and there were plenty of songs that I hadn't heard before and I enjoyed your "Acid Flashback" bit. But now that I can get your Manao radio show thru your blog and circumvent the censors at work, it's far superior and reminds me of BCN, in the old days. And 4 hours is quite nice; it has its rhythm. Anyway, thanks for the last six months.
Posted by: h | August 19, 2006 3:22 AM
Old friend hearing your voice on the Radio again made me feel more connected. I listened almost everday and loved every minute but as the weeks went by I knew it would be hard to keep going. I am sure it took a lot of time and if the suits stood in you way its not worth it. Too bad, BOS is doing a lot of different things that could have put them on top. Oh well back to Homoginized Music.
Posted by: George | August 19, 2006 5:46 AM
Sorry to hear that you will be leaving. Radio in Boston is changing -- for the worse. Your departure forced me to buy a satelite radio to listen to music, not commercials. I will be checking out the Wednesday show you do from Maui. Go over to Buba Gumps, have a burger and beer, walk under the Banyan Tree and enjoy.
Posted by: DonB | August 19, 2006 6:09 AM
What a shocker. All along I thoguht you were doing this for free when you asked people to help you without pay.
Posted by: Marc Gordon | August 19, 2006 6:29 AM
Marc Gordon:
Not fair! First of all, if I remember correctly, I asked for your help with Manao radio in Hawai'i- a free-form show which I am not getting paid for.
But again, it was almost a year ago, so I don't remember- if I did ask for your help on the BOS show- and you did reply (which you did not) we might have worked something out if you wanted a piece of the BOS crap-pay-mini-action. I don't believe you would have gotten what you deserved at any rate- but we could at least have discussed it. So, speaking of integrity, I don't think it's very fair that you would put trash talk (about being asked to work for free) on my blog, when you never even had the courtesy to reply and have a discussion about it.
boo hiss
Posted by: Charles Laquidara | August 19, 2006 11:09 AM
I'm an old radio guy who worked at WKOX AM in Framingham, I'm now working on the Cape at Cool 102, and I used to run into you on Marathon/Patriots Day at the starting line in Hopkinton.
I just read your comments (http://www.bostonradiowatch.com/) about the end of your "Backspin" program on WBOS. You are right on the money when you say "WBOS doesn't seem to know where it's going, and what it wants to do with Boston's greatest call letters, and how to use and promote me (you)."
It's too bad because it was good show that offered something different on the radio besides the usual Clear Channel driven crap.
Well, I'm sure it was fun while it lasted, but now you can go back to enjoying your retirement in Paradise.
Posted by: S.G. | August 19, 2006 11:26 AM
chuck sad to see you go AGAIN been a fan since 1969 BOS is a decent station but they do NOT listen to listener imput
getting too commercial
thanks for a great but short ride
Posted by: rob | August 19, 2006 4:07 PM
As an old trouper, you know the vicissitudes of showbiz. Hang in there, keep saving those S&H green stamps, and prep yourself for the next gig.
Posted by: nooch | August 19, 2006 4:52 PM
No.
I do.
I did.
Any rate is a good rate when you've been out of work for four years. And not collecting Social Security either I might add.
You can edit comments out of your blog before they get in there if you don't care for them. I assume you had been doing that all along.
I would have if you didn't put in the e-mail something like "... you wouldn't get paid". Besides, I doub't you would have accepted a collect call to discuss.
P.S. This is the most fun I've had with my pants on in a long time.
Posted by: Marc Gordon | August 19, 2006 5:06 PM
Marc Gordon,
If you're as old as Charles and his buds, it's probably the most fun you've had, even with your pants off.
Sorry, couldn't help myself. : )
Posted by: h | August 19, 2006 5:14 PM
"Keep your thumb on it, right, Doc?"
Okay, I'm going.
h
Posted by: h | August 19, 2006 5:16 PM
I was listening to your podcast today and you announced you were leaving again. My stomach felt like I ate some bad tofu, or something. It sounds like there may be some controversy. I don't know, with you it sounds likely. That's why you're the shite, I guess. I'm just grateful for the impact you've made in my life and our culture. Who needs them if they're giving you guff? Too bad you couldn't go on strike. Well you could, from Hawaii, but that would be dumb, unless you get Duane to do it. You're still relevent, even for an old guy. I'd love to hear what happened, even if it is like Mark Parenteau stuff. Sorry, that was innapropriate.
Posted by: bill m | August 19, 2006 5:55 PM
Mark Gordon,
You Pig scumbag...Just kidding. Hey maybe we should discuss my tell all book on "Laughing Goose? Ask Chuck for my email address.....stay the course and fight the good fight. Semper sic Tyranis!
Posted by: Danny | August 19, 2006 10:10 PM
Marc and Danny:
Kick a guy when he's down and out, why don't you!
(Well, not down- but out for sure..)
You bastards.
Semper sic Meanpopuli!
Posted by: Charles Laquidara | August 19, 2006 11:45 PM
Probablly just as well. I couldn't tell if you were trying to recreate old BCN or early ZLX. It came out mostly like current BOS. It was annoying how they failed every time to even attempt an appropriate segue from your very eclectic flashback. In my own life, every time I tried to chase a high, I came away dissappointed. Change is good.
Posted by: Pete Sullivan | August 20, 2006 4:07 AM
Aaaarrrrgggggg!
Every department at my work had BOS on for the hour in the morn. We will miss the old, comfortable sound of Charles on the radio. Thanks for the tease, Charles. But you really deserve to live "The Dream" you have earned.
Posted by: Roger Greenwood | August 20, 2006 6:27 AM
DUH! I'm so behind the eight ball, I didn't know I could listen to Charles on a podcast. I guess I'm really out of it.
Nonetheless, it was a pleasant journey into my youth albeit restrained by the corporate bullshit. Charles should never be required to be anything but Charles. It doesn't ring true and we all could see through it.
It's too bad but it's 'BOS's loss. Wish some local station had the guts to let us hear radio the way it was in the old days, back when Big Brother and Corporate America wasn't running everything.
My best to Charles. And now, I'll figure out how to hear these podcasts!
Posted by: Kathy | August 20, 2006 7:04 AM
Meet the new boss, same as the old boss.........
Posted by: ED | August 22, 2006 11:15 AM
Good for you Charles-
I thought the Globe correction was condescending and confusing as well.
'An editing error' indeed. And to reduce the hour to a mere 'oldies show'. That's just insulting. Their attitude came across to me as
" Oh, what ever Charles. "
For those of you who missed the actual Boston Globe Correction:
[PUBLISHED CORRECTION -
DATE: Saturday, August 19, 2006: Correction: Because of an editing error, the headline accompanying Thursday's Radio Tracks column implied that WBOS decided to end Charles Laquidara's "Back Spin" show. As the column reported, WBOS and Laquidara together agreed to end the show.]Charles Laquidara's "Back Spin," a weekday 9-10 a.m. oldies show, will end its run on Greater Media station WBOS...
Posted by: LadyArtist444 | August 22, 2006 11:18 AM
Hey - if you do make it to Bubba Gumps, say "hi" to the manager of the place (Jason).
He's a big fan of Cowboy Junkies and he and I have that in common. Tell him "frawg" said hi.
Enjoy the good life.
Scott (frawg)
Sanford, Maine
Posted by: Scott | August 22, 2006 2:23 PM
Bummer, you never called me, then again I never gave you my number, still bummer. Well I guess this gives me an hour to actually do work in the morning. No need to listen to the stream, which sucked when you weren't on. Loved the show, but I agree the format was restrictive, It would have been great if you could have done shows from the early 60s and late 50s. Of course I will endevor to nevor miss the Manao show and am hoping to hear it live this winter. Maybe I'll bring some breakfast by to say thank you.
Posted by: Purrdog | August 23, 2006 1:56 AM
The Globe and ‘BOS… a perfect match
The paper proved their worth(lessness)with the Nice job on the front page story about the warnings from the tunnel inspector eh? …What’s that guy doing nowadays anyhow (a radio program director maybe?)
And on the radio, Powered by music…MY ASS !
Countless (copycat) formats and repetition, repetition…repetition
It’s been a great ride Charles (your the best), too bad you couldn’t find another spot on the dial around here but I’ll try gett’n my fix from planet Manao …Aloha
Thanks again…stay cool…and hang loose Dude !
Posted by: Joe (clintonqc) | August 23, 2006 7:18 AM
1979 was the year.
"Well i've got nothin' against the press. They wouldn't print it if it wasn't true." :-)
Joe Jackson.
Posted by: bill m | August 23, 2006 4:56 PM
Sad to see you go, but as others here have said, the show didn't have the "Charles" feel to it. You were the bright spot in the AM for me. At least I can listen to Manao!
PS - Someone is getting me a copy of that Panting Antics "Swaggart" song. I'll send it along when I get it.
Posted by: Mrs. C | August 24, 2006 5:59 AM
Oh Charles,
Do you hear that sound? It's the sound of my heartbreaking....It's been such a great joy to have you back on the air here in Boston. I have enjoyed the last six months immensely. Thank you for making my mornings a whole lot brighter.
Now I have to take my technically challenged self and figure out how to access your "Manao Radio" show. Won't be the same as every week day--but, it'll be way better than no Charles at all.
I miss you already.
Posted by: Joan | August 24, 2006 6:06 AM
Been listening to you since 69. and i've allways enjoyed you. all you "causes" and ramblings as well as your knowledge of music. When I had heard you were back, I made it a point to take break in my truck just to listen. Now what am I going to use as an excuse.
Posted by: Phil Milan | August 24, 2006 9:00 AM
Charles, it was wonderful hearing your voice. The voice of a man who not only plays good music but knows the music he is playing and loves it. Where have all the real DJ's gone? The DJs of today suck. You are the only one in my book. I hope to hear you again soon, on a station that appreciates you for being the true talent and legend that you are! Thanks for the cooool summer!
Posted by: Jill | August 24, 2006 10:09 AM
Charles,
Calm Down....we know you bailed because it was Lame.
You Rock and are the best! Listeners/Fans (I know you dont like the term) can LISTEN to you at your Best Manaoradio every Wednesday from 6-10 Pinapple Time or I think....12-4 EST. Regarding WBOS...F**k them and the Red Soxs...Hey how about those Yankees?
http://www.manaoradio.com/
Posted by: A Consesending Fool | August 24, 2006 5:23 PM
oldies? i don't remember you playing Leader of the Pack once. i will however miss waking up at 9 to the great tunes you play --- never heard another DJ who's taste matches mine so closely. not just the chill bands but you often play a lesser known song that happens to be my favorite (naive melody or cisco kid) for a particular band. anyway, from the way you talk about it, and having been there myself, i figured you had to return to hawaii eventually , and hopefully I will be waking up to your tunes down there shortly. just don't sell out trying to reach #10.
Posted by: Ethan Fitzpatrick | August 25, 2006 4:24 AM
Enjoy your sabbatical and we'll all catch your show from Hawaii. You showed us a long time ago that we all have to compromise some but never to the point where we are giving up our principles. You're still living by that creed and for that, I salute you! Oh, and screw WBOS!
Posted by: Kathy | August 25, 2006 5:16 AM
Charles, I'm going to miss you. Again. Thank you for a great show (compromised though it might have been). Love the sonic yearbook idea and hope that you'll be back in Boston. Maybe on another station? In the meantime, I wish you well.
Posted by: Deborah | August 25, 2006 12:47 PM
For what it's worth, Charles, I really enjoyed your show (including the "politics"), particularly the nuggets you'd play to close the hour - I'll miss it.
However, better not to compromise - don't work in intolerable conditions!
Best wishes!
Posted by: Kolchak | August 30, 2006 4:56 AM
I didn't realize that you'd left BOS. Am very sorry to hear it - You gave them life and made this middle aged mom feel young again. Thanks.
Posted by: Deb | August 30, 2006 5:23 AM
I've been thinking...
boycott ALL Clear Channel programming. (Boy, my son will be proud of me
Posted by: deb | August 30, 2006 6:50 AM
WBOS is not a Clear Channel station- but boycottin Clear Channel is always a good idea anyway!
:)
Posted by: al alewya | August 31, 2006 7:50 AM
ITS SAFE TO SAY THE WBOS
ISNT LONG FOR THE AIR ANYWAY ... SOMEONE WILL SNATCH IT AND CHANGE IT ...SOON IM SURE .....
Posted by: RADIO1 | September 1, 2006 4:19 AM
jill & pete sullivan elmer is ready for a gourmet meal. hope to see you in maui soon. eimer from arkan sas
Posted by: elmer mccall | July 14, 2009 9:04 AM