What's Happening?
WBAI-NYC's program 'Everything Old Is New Again' is set to feature a musical tribute to several iconic artists, including June Christy, Nicolas King, and Kay Thompson. The broadcast, scheduled for Sunday, November 15, 2026, at 10:00 PM, will highlight
the music of June Christy, playing songs such as 'The First Thing You Know, You’re In Love,' Stephen Sondheim’s 'Do I Hear A Waltz?,' 'Tempico,' 'Something Cool,' and 'How High The Moon.' The program will also present four renditions of 'If I Ruled The World,' originally from the 1963 West End musical 'Pickwick,' with performances by Harry Secombe, Diana Ross & The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, and Tony Bennett with Celine Dion. Nicolas King's album 'No Bad Chords - A Tribute To Mike Renzi - Live In New York City' is the Album Pick of the Week, and an interview with King will also be featured. Additionally, the program will revisit previously released albums, including Kay Thompson's 'Think Pink - A Kay Thompson Party - 3 CD Box Set.'
Why It's Important?
This program is important for preserving and promoting classic American music and the legacies of influential artists. By featuring figures like June Christy, a significant jazz vocalist, and Kay Thompson, a multifaceted entertainer, WBAI-NYC contributes to the cultural education and appreciation of historical musical genres. The inclusion of contemporary artists like Nicolas King, who pays tribute to jazz legends, bridges generational gaps and introduces classic styles to new audiences. The segment on 'If I Ruled The World' showcases the enduring appeal and versatility of popular songs through different interpretations by diverse artists, highlighting the evolution and impact of music across decades. Such programming reinforces the role of public radio in offering curated cultural content that might not be widely available on mainstream platforms, fostering a deeper understanding of America's rich musical heritage.
What's Next?
Following the broadcast, listeners may seek out the featured albums and artists, potentially boosting interest in their discographies and live performances. Nicolas King's upcoming live performances in Cranston, RI, Boston, MA, and Las Vegas, NV, in mid-November, are likely to see increased attendance as a result of the program's spotlight. The continued promotion of classic artists like June Christy and Kay Thompson through such radio programs helps maintain their relevance and introduces their work to new generations of music enthusiasts. WBAI-NYC will likely continue its tradition of featuring historical and contemporary music, contributing to the ongoing cultural dialogue around American musical heritage. The program also serves as a platform for artists like King to gain wider recognition and connect with audiences who appreciate the jazz and classic pop genres.
Beyond the Headlines
The program's focus on 'Hollywood's hidden history' and blending 'celebrity gossip with social context' through segments like 'You Must Remember This' suggests a deeper exploration of the cultural and societal influences that shaped the entertainment industry. This approach moves beyond mere musical performance to examine the broader historical narrative surrounding these artists. By contextualizing their work within the social fabric of their times, the program offers insights into how celebrity, media, and societal norms intersected. This can lead to a more nuanced understanding of American cultural evolution, revealing how past entertainment reflected and influenced public attitudes. Such curated content encourages critical listening and historical reflection, fostering a more informed appreciation of the arts and their place in society.
