Big Voices of the Air: The Battle over Clear Channel Radio

For decades, clear channel AM radio stations were the dominant electronic media in America. Their powerful signals stretched hundreds -- in some cases thousands -- of miles on exclusive frequencies, clear from the interference of other stations. Big Voices of the Air explores the behind the scenes battle that raged out of earshot of the clear channel stations' vast audiences. Concentrating on the years from 1928 to the 1960s, the book shows how the clear channel debate mirrored changes in the American broadcasting industry, including the cementing of the commercial broadcasting structure and the splintering of commercial interests. Big Voices of the Air examines, in detail, the efforts of clear channel stations to promote themselves among listeners, farm organizations, Congress, and the Federal Communications Commission in an attempt to preserve and enhance their position in American broadcasting.