The Dan Chandler Collection: WQAM 560 Flashbacks

Radio has lost its magic. Its mojo is now a no-go. It simply can’t compete with iPods, songs on demand, and the other millions of choices competing for our time. To me, it seems the powers that be don’t even try anymore. They don’t speak to youth, or optimism, or fun fun fun. They pigeonhole everything into focus-group-tested demographics, a sterile facsimile of anything even remotely worth experiencing.

But at one time, radio was the central clearing house for all things cool, all things young, all things hip and happening. Before FM progressive radio, it was up to Top 40 stations to speak to teens… and LISTEN to teens… and both groups served each other. In Miami, it was WQAM and WFUN that ruled the roost, with WQAM always winning the ratings battle… but not without a valiant fight from its worthy competitor, whose constant pressure made them strive to keep getting better and better. Leading the charge was former WQAM program director Dan Chandler, who has graciously shared station memos and mementos with this blog and its readers. Thank you, Dan, for giving us a view inside the number one station in the entire southern part of the country.

WQAM's Dan Chandler in 1967

WQAM's Dan Chandler in 1967

Look for Dan’s wonderful souvenirs to turn up frequently, under the heading 560 Flashbacks. I also plan to write about WFUN Boss Radio, and other Florida radio stations that helped define the youth experience in Florida during the 1960s.

This blog is not meant to compete in any way with Steven Geisler’s incredible 560.com WQAM tribute site, or former WFUN dj Alan Michaels’ tribute to that great station. I encourage everyone to check out those sites, in addition to this one. I also welcome your comments, and your help in keeping the music and memories of these great stations alive.

Check out 560 Flashback #1 — WQAM vs. WFUN.

Also check out 560 Flashback #2 — Approved Nighttime Oldies.

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    • Jay Mark Glen on August 18, 2019 at 6:28 pm
    • Reply

    Is dan and penny still with us?
    I worked with him at wqam.
    And he was my mentor and friend.
    If he is willing email me.

    1. Dan is still with us, and living in Georgia.

    • Brina Kelly on March 27, 2022 at 9:22 am
    • Reply

    Im Dan,s Oldests son Brian. I just want to thank you for puting
    this together . I rember the Miami pop festival X2 & the mighity Q
    . Dads winding down but still leads an active life. Thanks for the site
    Respectfully Brian Kelly

    • M. Stanley on April 27, 2023 at 8:45 pm
    • Reply

    Some of the greatest moments in my South Florida advertising career were working with Dan on commercial production. Dan is in Georgia now? I’m in NC just above. I can sense his karma.

    1. Dan WAS living in Georgia, but unfortunately he passed away a few weeks ago.

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