My taste in music is eclectic, from Blues, to Classical, to Big Band and to the Oldies, or Doo Wop. Pittsburgh’s own Porky Chedwick, The “Daddio of the Raddio” and “The Platter Pushin’ Papa” gave Pittsburgh its introduction to some of the greatest music of our youth. He gave us cross-cultural music to which some of our parents forbid us to listen. But we did anyway and it was the wave and the rave here in Pittsburgh. It was years before I realized Porky was White! We fell in love to his music at dances and learned each lyric. There were many of these sounds I didn’t hear until I went to college. The experts of great music were there and taught me the art in Doo Wop. I should have learned that well in classes!

Friday night dances were the only place to be that night on campus and Oldies were what they played. I found Junior Walker and The All Stars who sang “Shotgun” and we were all out on the floor. Some of the songs had been played by Mad Mike on a Pittsburgh radio station, but I didn’t find the Mad One until I went to college. I learned fast and devoured every song like a chocolate bar. Then I landed a gig on the campus radio station and every Tuesday night, Cher played the Oldies from 10:00p.m. to midnight.

I guess we all reminisce about our youth, but those sounds are still some of my favorites. Today I’m taking a break from the dance of politics and giving you some favorite Oldies to enjoy.  Of course I was there and lovin’ the whole show. Since The Skyliners are from Pittsburgh, you know they are included here. I hope this brings back some good memories for you.

—cher