Starting in the mid-fifties and lasting about a quarter of a century, there was a group of radio stations that we all grew up with. They were fast, exciting, and reflected the new music...rock 'n roll. These were not your father's radio stations.
This was TOP FORTY RADIO. And, these stations played whatever the surveys showed were the most popular records of the moment, no matter what the genre. This could mean Elvis, Buddy Holly, Fats Domino, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones. But, it could just as well mean Percy Faith, The Singing Nun, Kyu Sakamoto, Roger Miller, or Alan Sherman.
Not all of the best of these radio stations were in the giant markets like New York, Chicago, or LA. There was one great station out in the southwestern desert...KTKT in Tucson. Because of the size of Tucson it is not mentioned with WABC New York, KLIF Dallas, KRLA Los Angeles, or KQV Pittsburgh. But, it was just as good, if not better.
This site is dedicated to legendary KTKT, 990, in Tucson, to the many people who contributed to its success, and to the hundreds of thousands of fans who kept it number one for almost twenty five years.
About us: This site is a labor of love for everybody involved. Our two historians have found and written most of the material; C. J. Brown, and Chuck Simms. Our webmaster is a former KTKT disc Jockey, Ray Lindstrom. This is a work in progress. We hope to add more and more on a continuous basis, so check back often. And, if you have any comments, suggestions, or material to add, please contact us: colorchannel99@yahoo.com
Photo right: Together in 2014
(L-R) Ray, Charlie, Chuck
If you haven’t read former KTKT deejay Ray Lindstrom's book FEARLESS! Confessions of a Serial Entrepreneur, get a copy today at Amazon.com.
Wild rides with the guy who created the infomercial industry, started the "world's most important website" and 100 other businesses.
You’ll get a kick out of all his references to the old days in Arizona broadcasting and his brushes with fame and famous folks.
And, if you know somebody who is “entrepreneur material” why not pass this along to them. His 22 Lindstrom Laws for starting a new business will help.
DAN GATES PASSES AWAY
Legendary KTKT and Tucson radio announcer/personality/disc jockey passed away April. 9, 2021. Over 60 years at the microphone, Dan worked mostly in Tucson. He also had stints in LA and Las Vegas. Dan was a true professional and a nice guy. Rest in peace old friend.
