Podcast Summary: Amos & Andy 39-03-31 March Of Time Gag Show

Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Episode: Amos & Andy 39-03-31 March Of Time Gag Show
• Release Date: April 20, 2025

Introduction

Harold's Old Time Radio presents a unique reenactment episode titled "Amos & Andy 39-03-31 March Of Time Gag Show", which delves into the storied history of the iconic radio duo, Freeman Gosden and Charles Correll. This episode combines historical narration with scripted dialogues, offering listeners an engaging blend of factual recounting and creative storytelling.

Formation of "Amos and Andy"

The episode begins by setting the scene in March 1928, highlighting the ambitions of Freeman Gosden and Charles Correll as they venture into the burgeoning world of radio at WMAQ Chicago.

• Narrator [00:34]: "Today we bring you reenactments of memorable scenes from the history of two ambitious young men, Freeman Gosden and Charles Correll, who have done much to make radio history."

In their initial meeting with the radio station manager, the two men discuss the importance of branding their act.

• Freeman Gosden [01:27]: "First of all, see, you gotta get a name for the act."
• Charles Correll [01:31]: "See, we've already got a name for it. Sam and Henry."
• Freeman Gosden [01:34]: "No, Freeman. We're gonna call ourselves Amos and Andy."

This decision marks the birth of a name destined to resonate deeply with American households.

• Narrator [01:37]: "And so these two ambitious young men decided on a name that was destined to become a household word."

Auditioning Announcers

A pivotal moment in the formation of Amos and Andy revolves around the selection of the right announcer to complement their act. Freeman and Charles are meticulous, seeking a voice that perfectly matches their show's unique style.

• Narrator [01:45]: "But an announcer was needed. Audition after audition was held. Hundreds of announcers were heard, but none satisfied these two ambitious young men."

Two candidates, Bill Hay and Bill Weed, audition for the role. Their performances reveal contrasting styles:

• Bill Hay [02:17]: "I'm happy to force the straight away. Cause you read a warden. I don't want to spell a business."

  His speech is clear and precise, making his announcements easily understandable.

• Bill Weed [02:27]: "Certainly, folks, if you'll just use Friday force to state it read twice a week. And all the folks who use it for their preacher, Steve Morse. And use it right a bait not because I'll use it right in between your gums."

  Weed's delivery is muddled and hard to comprehend.

Freeman and Charles deliberate the auditions:

• Freeman Gosden [03:23]: "You know, I like that Bill Hay. What about you?"
• Frederick Correll [03:26]: "No, I don't agree. I like the other fella. You can understand him better."

After further assessment, they favor Bill Hay for his clear pronunciation, deeming Bill Weed's overly articulate speech unsuitable.

• Charles Correll [04:16]: "That does it, Mr. Hay. You got the job. Boy, the way you pronounce erium, nobody would know what you're saying."

Thus, Bill Hay is chosen as the announcer, cementing the show's format.

Rise to Popularity

With the right team in place, Amos and Andy swiftly captures the nation's attention. The episode vividly illustrates the show's widespread appeal across various American households and even internationally.

• Narrator [05:06]: "Within a few months, homes throughout the country eagerly awaited the hour every night when the National Broadcasting Company giant octopus like organization brought this black face team into their homes."

Vignettes depict typical families from Florida, Iowa, California, Oregon, Illinois, and New England, showcasing diverse settings united by their love for the show. For instance:

• Freeman Gosden [05:10]: "Yes, yes, thank you, Gabby."
• Charles Correll [05:22]: "You want to go down to the waterfront and get some fresh fish. You know, we got a lot of fish around Boston."

As the show's popularity explodes, it leads to increased sales of radio sets and greater consumption of electricity, benefiting power companies.

• Narrator [06:16]: "As the phenomenal popularity of Amos and Andy mounted steadily."

The show's influence even reaches abroad:

• Narrator [06:16]: "Foreign countries likewise buzzed with the excitement of Amos and Andy's popularity. In the far off land of Shukdra Al Fatifas, for example, even to the sunny shores of Hydra Kodafad, people were heard to say..."

The Disappearance

After 11 years of uninterrupted broadcasting, a mysterious phenomenon causes Amos and Andy to vanish from the airwaves, leaving millions of listeners across the nation in dismay.

• Narrator [08:09]: "April 3, 1939. A strange phenomenon of radio is being excitedly discussed. Wherever radio listeners gather, wherever that is."

Listeners from diverse backgrounds express their frustration and sadness:

• Freeman Gosden [08:42]: "Very strange. They're just not on the dial. They've disappeared. Very strange."
• Charles Correll [09:13]: "Pour me a strong glass of Orange juice, Mary, I'm gonna sit at this radio all night until I get him. I just can't."

The sudden absence sparks confusion and grief, leading to widespread speculation about the cause.

Aftermath and Sci-Fi Twist

In the aftermath of the disappearance, the National Broadcasting Company (NBC) grapples with the unexplained silence. An NBC executive shares insights into the bewildering event.

• NBC Executive [09:53]: "Hello there, squeegees. Are you given to misunderstanding me or is what I'm hearing making me the labeling under Ms. Apple Dumpling?"

As time progresses without resolution, a dramatic and fantastical twist unfolds. An American scientist successfully establishes communication with Martians through "panthoscope telepath frequencies," leading to the revelation that Amos and Andy broadcasts are now confined to the planet Mars.

• Freeman Gosden [10:49]: "Pray tell, fellow Martian, what is this strange thing we hear from the Earth people today?"
• Freeman Gosden [11:14]: "I also heard mention of one Amos and Andy too."

The show's transition from NBC to the Columbia Broadcasting System (CBS) is humorously portrayed as they become exclusively audible to Martian inhabitants.

• Narrator [11:24]: "Strange indeed is this phenomenon that Amos and Andy since moving from the National Broadcasting Company to giant octopus like organization to the Columbia Broadcasting System small minnow like organization are heard only by those living on the planet Mars."

This sci-fi element adds a whimsical layer to the historical narrative, blending reality with imaginative fiction.

Conclusion

The "Amos & Andy 39-03-31 March Of Time Gag Show" episode masterfully intertwines historical facts with creative storytelling, painting a vivid picture of the meteoric rise and mysterious disappearance of one of radio's most beloved acts. By incorporating notable quotes and precise timestamps, the episode ensures an engaging and informative experience for listeners, both seasoned fans and newcomers alike.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Freeman Gosden [01:27]: "First of all, see, you gotta get a name for the act."
• Freeman Gosden [01:34]: "No, Freeman. We're gonna call ourselves Amos and Andy."
• Freeman Gosden [03:23]: "You know, I like that Bill Hay. What about you?"
• Charles Correll [04:16]: "That does it, Mr. Hay. You got the job. Boy, the way you pronounce erium, nobody would know what you're saying."
• Freeman Gosden [08:42]: "Very strange. They're just not on the dial. They've disappeared. Very strange."
• Charles Correll [09:13]: "Pour me a strong glass of Orange juice, Mary, I'm gonna sit at this radio all night until I get him. I just can't."
• Freeman Gosden [10:49]: "Pray tell, fellow Martian, what is this strange thing we hear from the Earth people today?"

This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of the Amos & Andy 39-03-31 March Of Time Gag Show episode, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of its content and thematic elements.