Good Time Oldies: The History and Legacy of the Radio Network
For decades, Good Time Oldies served as a cornerstone for nostalgic music broadcasting in the United States. As a 24-hour music format provided to local radio stations nationwide, it specialized in bringing the sounds of the mid-20th century to a dedicated audience, navigating various corporate mergers and rebranding efforts before its eventual conclusion.
Key Facts
- Launch Date: 1990
- Original Producer: Jones Radio Networks
- Final Owner: Westwood One
- Primary Demographic: White men aged 50 to 64
- Musical Focus: Primarily 1960s and 1970s, with selections from the 1950s and 1980s
- End Date: April 20, 2025
Evolution and Corporate Transitions
The network began its journey under Jones Radio Networks. Over the years, the format underwent several ownership changes and name shifts. In 2008, following the sale of Jones Radio Networks to Dial Global, the service was initially absorbed into the "Kool Oldies" format. However, strong demand from affiliate radio stations prompted Dial Global to bring back the Good Time Oldies branding.
The programming direction was shaped significantly by program director Jon Holiday, who led the format from 1994 through 2003. As the industry consolidated, the network saw further transitions. After Triton Media Group purchased Jones Radio Networks, the format merged with Dial Global's "Kool Gold" network, though it was again restored as Good Time Oldies due to popular demand. Eventually, after the merger of Dial Global and Westwood One, the satellite-delivered Kool Gold program evolved into the "Classic Hits Total" format.
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Programming and Talent
The network was known for its distinct personalities. Early feeds from Jones Radio Networks featured DJs such as Jay "The Fox That Rocks" Fox and Gary Outlaw. A notable addition in 1992 was Dave Michaels' "Dave's Diner." Both Fox and Michaels remained with the format as it transitioned into the Westwood One "Classic Hits" era.
In the spring of 2014, Westwood One announced that Good Time Oldies would replace The True Oldies Channel in June. This change occurred after Cumulus lost the rights to The True Oldies Channel following the departure of its founder and owner, Scott Shannon. This new iteration of Good Time Oldies represented the first joint format venture between Cumulus and Westwood One, utilizing talent from the Cumulus "Classic Hits Format," including Maria Danza and "Smokin" Kevan Browning. The network's flagship station was hosted on the HD2 subchannel of KRBE in Houston, Texas.
The Final Broadcast
On March 20, 2025, Westwood One announced the discontinuation of several formats, including Good Time Oldies, effective April 20. Other formats cut at the same time included Variety Hits Pop, Variety Hits Rock, Hits Now, Classic Hits Gold, Classic Rock X, and Rock 2.0.
The Good Time Oldies satellite feed went silent at 11:59:50 on April 20, 2025. The final personality to speak was Steve "Stu" Stuart, and the final song played was the Bee Gees' version of "More Than a Woman."
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Affiliate Transitions
Following the shutdown, various affiliate stations transitioned to new formats to maintain their programming:
- KSEO: Switched to Westwood One's "Classic Hits - Rock" format.
- WTBO: Moved to Local Radio Networks' "Super Hits." Interestingly, host Dennis Harrington, who is part of the Super Hits format, had previously been part of the original Jones Radio Networks' Good Time Oldies in the mid-2000s.
- WWIZ: Transitioned to Westwood One's Adult Contemporary format.
- WEGG: Continues to air a locally based oldies format, retaining Good Time Oldies branding and liners.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Service Type | National Radio Network (24-hour music format) |
| Key Eras | Jones Radio Networks → Dial Global → Westwood One |
| Core Music Decades | 1960s and 1970s |
| Flagship Station | KRBE HD2 (Houston, Texas) |
| Final Song | "More Than a Woman" by the Bee Gees |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who originally produced the Good Time Oldies format?
The format was originally produced by Jones Radio Networks before being acquired by Dial Global and eventually becoming part of Westwood One.
What was the primary target audience for the network?
The network specifically targeted a demographic of white men between the ages of 50 and 64.
Which decades of music were most prominent on the playlist?
The majority of the playlist consisted of music from the 1960s and 1970s, with occasional songs from the 1950s and 1980s.
When did the Good Time Oldies network officially end?
The satellite feed went silent at 11:59:50 on April 20, 2025.
Who was the final personality heard on the broadcast?
The final personality heard on the Good Time Oldies feed was Steve "Stu" Stuart.