Night Lights Classic Jazz

Willis Conover: new biography of the VOA jazz DJ

Conover Terence Ripmaster has published a new biography of longtime Voice of America jazz DJ Willis Conover. Conover’s broadcasts were heard around the world (though not in America, due to Congressional restrictions) and brought jazz into Eastern bloc countries where the music was a precious commodity. Look for a Night Lights show this autumn featuring an interview with Ripmaster and more; in the meantime, you can check out our previous program of musical tributes to jazz jocks, “Jivin’ With the DJs”.

David Brent Johnson

Born in Indianapolis, Indiana, David Brent Johnson moved to Bloomington in 1991. He is an alumnus of Indiana University, and began working with WFIU in 2002. Currently, David serves as jazz producer and systems coordinator at the station. His interests include literature, history, music, writing, and movies.

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Afterglow is WFIU's weekly program of jazz and American popular song hosted by David Brent Johnson.

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