Alan Freed Email & Phone Number

Alan Freed was an influential American disc jockey, who played a pivotal role in the development and popularization of rock and roll music during the 1950s. As a DJ, he helped bridge the gap between white and black audiences by introducing the sounds of rhythm and blues to mainstream America. His groundbreaking radio shows and live concerts of prominent rock and roll acts not only established him as a tastemaker but also sparked a cultural revolution that had a lasting impact on the music industry.

Born on December 15, 1921, in Windber, Pennsylvania, Albert James Freed, or more commonly known as Alan Freed, discovered his love for music at a young age. He spent his formative years in Ohio, where he began his career as a radio DJ in the 1940s. However, it was not until the early 1950s, when Freed moved to Cleveland, that he truly made his mark on the music scene. It was here that he began hosting a radio show called "The Moondog Rock and Roll House Party" on WJW, where he coined the term "rock and roll" and started championing the genre.

Freed's show became a sensation, attracting a diverse audience and gaining immense popularity due to the vibrant energy and infectious enthusiasm he brought to the airwaves. He played a diverse selection of music, including blues, R&B, and early rock and roll, introducing his listeners to a whole new world of sound. His profound love and understanding of the music he played earned him a reputation as a passionate advocate for the genre, and he quickly became a leading figure in the rock and roll movement.

In addition to his radio show, Freed organized and hosted live concerts that featured some of the biggest names in rock and roll, such as Fats Domino, Chuck Berry, and Little Richard. These shows, often referred to as "rock and roll revues," were groundbreaking in their approach, as they brought black and white artists together on the same stage, despite the racial segregation prevalent at the time. This not only helped break down racial barriers but also played a significant role in the integration of popular music in America.

Freed's impact on the music industry continued to grow, and he soon became known as "The King of Rock and Roll." He leveraged his influence to help launch the careers of many artists and introduced audiences to the music that would shape popular culture for decades to come. His work paved the way for the eventual mainstream success of rock and roll, and he played a vital role in turning the genre into a global phenomenon.

However, his career took a dramatic turn in the late 1950s when he became embroiled in the infamous payola scandal. This scandal involved allegations that Freed and other DJs had accepted bribes from record companies to play specific songs on their shows. Freed's involvement in the scandal tarnished his reputation and led to his downfall in the music industry. In 1962, he pleaded guilty to two charges of commercial bribery, effectively ending his career as a DJ.

Despite his fall from grace, Alan Freed's legacy as one of the most influential figures in rock and roll history remains intact. His impact on the music industry and popular culture cannot be overstated, and his contributions to the genre continue to be celebrated today. Freed's influence can be felt in every aspect of rock and roll, from the music itself to the culture and attitude that surround it. He helped shape the sound of a generation and left an indelible mark on the history of music. Alan Freed may have faced personal and professional challenges, but his impact on the world of rock and roll will never be forgotten.