Rock Radio Scrapbook

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Talent: RALPH LOCKWOOD
Station: CKGM Montreal
Date: July 3, 1973
Time: 5:40

(Description by Marc Denis)

When it comes to the classic Top 40 radio "one-man show" morning host, look no further than to the legendary Ralph "The Birdman" Lockwood on Montreal's 980 CKGM from 1972 to year-end 1981. Prior to his arrival at CKGM, Lockwood is already a master of his craft as of 1968, hosting AM drive on rival Top 40 outlet 1470 CFOX. His arrival on CKGM mornings is a key element in the station's unprecedented popularity and success during the '70s and signals the beginning of the end for CFOX.

Although he eventually leaves Montreal to return home to Pennsylvania radio in 1988, Lockwood is still fondly remembered by all today as the master of the one-liner and of the latest groaner, always delivered with impeccable timing and often with back-up assistance from his zany cast of characters. Mention "Ralph Lockwood" and legions of Montrealers still today recall the Birdman's daily greeting of "How's Your Bird?", which he also delivered, tongue firmly in cheek, in Greek, Italian, Polish and French.

Ralphie tries to return to Montreal to visit once a year, usually on his birthday, which he celebrates with old friends and colleagues at Montreal's legendary ribs and chicken eatery, The Bar B Barn.

On this aircheck from July of 1973, veteran newsman Robert Vairo and sultry traffic reporter Terri Stacey are also featured. Hear Ralph cleverly use a fictional phone call from Expos' baseball hero Boots Day to set-up his latest joke and throw it to Professor Frydock for a couple of laughs as well. Let us not forget that yummy Colt cigar for breakfast either.

Enjoy Ralph Lockwood on CKGM here.

(The Dan Kowal Collection)

(CKGM 980 Ralph Lockwood July 3, 1973 aircheck reproduced and posted here through permission by marcdenis.com (Marc Denis's CKGM Super 70s Tribute Page). This aircheck cannot be duplicated or distributed without prior written permission and consent by the proprietor(s).)

For more super Montreal airchecks, visit The Mais Oui Files

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