Recalling the Legacy of W3 Soul: A Beacon for Saginaw’s Black Community
Over the last few years, nostalgia and appreciation for the past have become increasingly prevalent in our society, especially when it comes to music and radio. Although the landscape of radio has drastically changed, the impact of local stations and DJs is still fondly remembered by many. A striking example of this is W3 Soul, a station that once served as the voice for Saginaw’s black community. The station’s DJs, like Dante Toussaint and Kermit Crockett, were local celebrities and community advocates, using their platform to champion causes and engage with their listeners. The influence of W3 Soul continues to resonate today, with many remembering the station’s glory days and the vital role it played in the community.
Reminiscing on the Golden Days of Radio
Reflecting on their time at W3 Soul, former DJs recall the excitement and prestige that came with their roles. Toussaint, who still spins jazz on WTLZ-FM, fondly remembers feeling like a movie star, while Crockett, now monitoring airplay on stations nationwide, reminisces about the unique and catchy content they brought to the airwaves. The DJs’ influence extended beyond the studio, with many actively engaging in community service and supporting local talent.
W3 Soul’s Impact on Saginaw’s Black Community
W3 Soul, founded in 1969, was a groundbreaking station for Saginaw’s black community. Before its inception, listeners had to resort to complex tactics to listen to music by black artists. The station quickly became a cultural hub, with DJs named Don Juan, Sweet Meat, and Lolita becoming local celebrities. The station’s commitment to community service was also commendable, with initiatives such as the annual Family Fair at Ojibway Island drawing thousands of residents.
Station Evolution and Legacy
Over the years, W3 Soul underwent several transformations, both in terms of content and physical location. The station’s music genre evolved from disco to rap and then back to R&B and jazz. The studio also moved multiple times before becoming part of the NextMedia complex. Despite these changes, the station’s influence remains, with the former DJs believing a station like W3 Soul could still thrive today given the right circumstances.
As we look back, it’s clear that the legacy of W3 Soul extends far beyond the radio waves. Its impact on Saginaw’s black community, as well as its role in shaping radio programming and community engagement, will always be remembered. #W3Soul #RadioLegacy #MusicHistory #CommunityImpact #Saginaw
