Harley Slavik, host of “Music Throwbacks” (Fridays 2-3 p.m.) has a passion for comics and collectibles that he’s expanded into an online “Department Store” to share his finds. His collection also includes a personal library of vinyl LPs and singles, thanks to an interest in older music inspired by his father. Not too long ago he caught a broadcast of “Vinyl Confessions” (Mondays 10-12 p.m.) on KZSM and recognized a shared appreciation for vinyl. By chance, he encountered host Rob Roark and learned that KZSM welcomes new programs.
Before long, he was reveling in our extensive collection of vinyl records and CDs and loving his first experience of radio. His interest in older media inspired the name “Music Throwbacks.”
“I throw it back to the time before radio played MP3 and WAV files,” he says. His playlist features a range of his favorite genres, including rock, country, jazz and older R&B. Each show is a new adventure in musicality, mood, and memory.
“The very first song I started it all with was ‘We Didn’t Start The Fire’ by Billy Joel,” he recalls. “I wanted a good rock song to kick things off and I was in the mood for that one.” That first show also featured “Back in Black” by AC/DC, which evoked memories of watching the 2008 “Iron Man” movie with his father, who passed away in May of this year. A recent show included “Love Train” by the O’Jays. “The chorus with the harmonies is my favorite part,” he explains.
Setting up records and CDs for play rather than just choosing files from a computer provides a challenge for this new radio DJ, but sharing older music is a joy. “Playing songs I love and seeing people enjoy the music I play makes it more than worth it,” he concludes.
Tune in Friday at two to enjoy Harley’s discoveries for this week. And join us in person Thursday, Dec. 11, at 7 p.m. at the Price Center for our KZSM Holiday Concert, featuring groups from San Marcos schools. The talented jazz bands from Miller Middle School and San Marcos High will perform, along with the San Marcos High orchestra ensemble. Also, harmonica virtuoso Kali Rose KB, host of “KZSM Kidz,” will entertain and amaze you. Admission is free, but you might want to bring a new, unwrapped toy for our toy drive.
