Podcast Summary: All Of It – "Thank Ron Delsner For New York's Most Famous Concerts"

Introduction

In the May 29, 2025 episode of All Of It, hosted by Alison Stewart on WNYC, the spotlight shines on Ron Delsner, a legendary concert promoter who has indelibly shaped New York City's music scene. The episode delves into Ron's illustrious career, exploring his pivotal role in bringing iconic performances to the city and the making of the new documentary, Ron Delsner Presents, directed by Jake Sumner.

Ron Delsner: The Man Behind the Music

Alison Stewart opens the discussion by highlighting Ron Delsner's significant contributions to New York's cultural landscape. Described as a "legendary concert promoter," Ron has worked with an array of legendary acts, including Bruce Springsteen, Tina Turner, Kiss, and Billy Joel. His knack for making his name synonymous with the events he organizes is emphasized through his distinctive poster branding.

The Documentary: Ron Delsner Presents

Jake Sumner, the director of the documentary Ron Delsner Presents, joins Alison in the studio to discuss the film's genesis and its portrayal of Ron's career. Sumner recounts his long-standing peripheral knowledge of Ron, rooted in his childhood fascination with the live music business. He shares:

"Ron is someone that always kind of had a wisecrack or like a funny story. And as I got older and got to know him, I realized that, wow, these stories are kind of really important. And he's talking about some really important people and everyone from Jimi Hendrix to the Beatles, Nina Simone. He just has kind of this amazing history that comes with him."
— Jake Sumner [02:01]

Sumner explains the documentary's focus on Ron's pioneering efforts, such as initiating outdoor concerts in Central Park, transforming Carnegie Hall into a rock venue, and facilitating performances at Yankee Stadium. The film also captures Ron's relentless passion, as he continues to manage multiple shows even in his 80s.

Community Voices: Listener Anecdotes

Throughout the episode, Alison invites listeners to share their personal encounters with Ron Delsner, adding depth and personal perspectives to his story.

Interview with Jake Sumner

Sumner elaborates on the challenges and experiences in creating the documentary. He shares insights into Ron's personality and work ethic:

"I think Harriet actually... helped me understand a little bit of the kind of gambler mentality that Ron's always had."
— Jake Sumner [06:08]

He describes Ron's basement as "Aladdin's cave of amazing stuff," highlighting the extensive archive of rock and roll memorabilia that served as a rich resource for the documentary. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the documentary's production is also discussed, revealing how Sumner and his colleague spent extensive time digitizing Ron's archives.

Listener Stories

Alison introduces Liz from Wilton, Connecticut, who shares her memories of Ron:

"I saw my very first concert courtesy of Ron Delsner, Aerosmith at Madison Square Garden when I was 14 years old."
— Liz [07:59]

Another caller, Gregory from Arizona, recounts a personal interaction with Ron:

"Ron says he's retired, but he doesn't actually appear to be retired... he was going into the stage door and I walked in with Ron Delsner."
— Gregory [17:19]

These stories underscore Ron's lasting influence and his personable nature, making him a beloved figure in the community.

Notable Concerts and Challenges

One of the episode's highlights is the discussion of the Simon & Garfunkel concert in Central Park, orchestrated years after their breakup. Sumner recounts Ron's strategic maneuvering to bring together Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel for a monumental performance, showcasing Ron's "magicianship" in event planning.

Another intriguing segment covers the infamous "Electronic Thanksgiving" concert at Philharmonic Hall in 1968. This event, which featured Jimi Hendrix Experience alongside classical acts, exemplifies Ron's ability to navigate complex logistical and artistic challenges:

"Ron had to kind of work with Philharmonic... convincing Leonard Bernstein into allowing it to happen."
— Jake Sumner [16:03]

Ron’s Relationships and Legacy

The documentary also delves into Ron's relationships with artists, managers, and agents. Sumner explains Ron's omnipresent role backstage and his ability to maintain strong ties within the industry:

"Ron is just always kind of like he's omnipresent sort of backstage and in green rooms."
— Jake Sumner [10:04]

Despite the evolving music industry, Ron's personalized approach and entrepreneurial spirit have allowed him to remain a central figure in New York's concert scene.

Conclusion

As the episode wraps up, Alison Stewart emphasizes the importance of Ron Delsner's contributions to New York City's cultural fabric. The documentary Ron Delsner Presents is highlighted as a must-watch for anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes efforts that bring legendary performances to life. Ron's unwavering dedication and passion serve as an inspiration, ensuring his legacy endures in the heart of the city's vibrant music history.

Listeners are encouraged to watch the documentary, which premiered at the Quad Cinema, to gain deeper insights into Ron Delsner's impactful career.

Notable Quotes

• Jake Sumner on Ron’s early influence:

  "He was just the greatest rock and roll memorabilia you've ever seen."
  — Jake Sumner [03:10]

• Liz reflecting on her first concert experience:

  "It was my very first concert, Aerosmith at Madison Square Garden."
  — Liz [07:59]

• Gregory on Ron's enduring presence:

  "Ron doesn't actually appear to be retired... he's just that kind of."
  — Gregory [17:28]

Final Thoughts

This episode of All Of It offers a comprehensive look at Ron Delsner's pivotal role in shaping New York City's music scene. Through interviews, personal anecdotes, and insightful discussions, listeners gain a profound appreciation for the man behind some of the most memorable concerts in the city's history.