Category: Detroit Radio Surveys

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CKLW, known as an RKO station in 1964, was a legendary AM radio station broadcasting on 800 kHz from Windsor, Ontario, with a massive 50,000 watt signal that reached much of the Midwest United States and beyond. The station became famous for its Top 40 format, high-energy DJs, later formed the innovative “Boss Radio” style, especially from the mid-1960s through the 1970s.

CKLW in 1964: The Early Days of Its Glory

In 1964, CKLW was transitioning into the high-energy format that would make it famous by the end of the decade. While it hadn’t yet adopted the full-fledged Drake-Chenault “Boss Radio” format that dominated the late ’60s and early ’70s, the station was already a major player in the Detroit-Windsor radio market.

CKLW DJ Lineup (1964)

1. Tom Clay – A well-known Detroit/Windsor radio personality, Tom Clay had a smooth and engaging style. He was famous for his time on CKLW but was later fired in 1965 due to his involvement in a payola scandal (accepting money to play certain records).
2. Bud Davies – A veteran DJ at CKLW, Bud Davies had been a popular voice on the station since the 1950s. He played a mix of rock & roll and pop, catering to a broad audience.
3. Dave Shafer – One of CKLW’s most well-recognized voices. He was known for his lively, high-energy presentation and deep connection with the audience.
4. Joe Van – Another personality in the CKLW lineup during this period.
5. Terry Knight – Before becoming a rock producer and manager (notably for Grand Funk Railroad), Terry Knight was a DJ on CKLW, where he developed his on-air persona.
6. Ron Knowles – Part of the CKLW staff in the early ’60s.

The Changing Landscape at CKLW

The year 1964 was a transitional year for CKLW. The station had not yet fully adopted the high-energy “Boss Radio” format that made it legendary by the late 1960s, but it was already a dominant Top 40 powerhouse. The DJ lineup still reflected a mix of rock and roll influences from the late 1950s and early 1960s.

The CKLW BIG 50 (plus) hits in Windsor/Detroit. This survey was tabulated overall by record popularity appeal, sales, listener requests and record airplays based on the judgement of CKLW Radio. [February 1964]

Not a misprint! 50-plus ‘Beatles’ hits — listed for this week’s CKLW survey! 

ON YOUR MOBILE DEVICE? Tap over chart image. Open to second window. “Stretch” chart across your device screen to magnify for largest print view.

ON YOUR PC? Click on chart image 2x for largest detailed print view. The above CKLW chart was digitally restored by USA Radio Museum

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A sincere thank you Mrs. Patti Griggs. This featured presentation would have not been possible without your generosity, dedication, and your continuous support.

The above CKLW music chart courtesy of Mrs. Patti Griggs and the George L. Griggs estate.

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The CKLW HIT PARADE represents the judgement of CKLW’s record selection committee as to the relative popularity of of current recordings in the Motor City area and is conditioned by such factors as industry tabulations, local record sales, and telephone requests.

The featured CKLW 07/11/1967 chart was digitally restored by Motor City Radio Flashbacks

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ON YOUR MOBILE DEVICE? Tap over CKLW chart images. Open to second window. “Stretch” image across your device screen to magnify for largest print view.

ON YOUR PC? Click on all chart images 2x for largest print view.

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A sincere thank you Mrs. Patti Griggs. This featured presentation would have not been possible without your generosity, dedication, and your continuous support.

Above CKLW music chart courtesy of Mrs. Patti Griggs and the George L. Griggs estate.