Gary Walker had his first shift on the air at WBGO on Friday, June 11, 1982. It was a milestone in a legendary broadcasting career, and the beginning of a deep association.
Since that day 40 years ago, Gary has served Newark Public Radio in so many ways — notably as the voice of Morning Jazz, now known as Daybreak. Listeners in the New York and New Jersey area, and around the world, count on starting their day with Gary — for his passionate knowledge of the music, his exuberant wit, and his good company.
As Music Director at WBGO, Gary has also helped define the sound of the station for many years. And he's interviewed countless artists in our studio and onstage, from Branford Marsalis to Bettye LaVette. But who knows Gary better than his fellow jazz evangelists, on the air and behind the scenes at WBGO? Here are a handful of capsule tributes and stories, produced by Corey Goldberg. We love you, Gary!
Dorthaan Kirk — 2020 NEA Jazz Master, and a founder of Newark Public Radio.
Michael Bourne, who started on the air at WBGO just two years after Gary.
Doug Doyle, News Director, Morning News Anchor.
Monifa Brown, host of Saturday Evening Jazz.
Brian Delp, host of Drive Time.
Rob Crocker, host of Lights Out Weekend.
Stevan Smith, Chief Content Officer of WBGO.
Nicole Sweeney, host of Lights Out.
Stevan A. Williams, CEO and President of WBGO.