Newsradio 790 AM WNIS
Bill Bass
Email:bbass@wnis.com
Like most baby boomers of the 60’s, the music and radio stations of that day were a big influence on Bill Bass. Some say music defined the era. Especially The Beatles, Motown, and surf music.
In 2006 Bass celebrates 30 years in radio broadcasting. As the old saying goes “Everything Goes Around”. Today, Bass collects the same Top 40 radio surveys from te 60’s plus records and classic air checks.
Words from Bill:
Born on July 4th in Suffolk Virginia, I grew up on WGH radio. The station then was bigger than life. Whether it was the air personalities, promotions, or newscasts – I listened intently to air personalities like George Crawford, John Garry, Gene Loving, and Larry O’Brien. I collected the WGH weekly Top 40 surveys. I bought 45’s records like some people buy baseball cards.
At age 12 I was on the air in several neighborhood radio stations. A few of my friends had these low watt AM Lionel transmitters. They would broadcast around the block. It was quite exciting. At 13 years old, I knew I wanted to pursue radio broadcasting.
After graduating from Cradock High School in 1973, I worked for two years in a pharmacy, did construction, and worked for the First Virginia Bank of Tidewater.
By 1975 I was ready to try broadcasting so I enrolled in the Tidewater School of Broadcasting. I was taught under the direction of Paul Hennings (a Hampton Roads radio legend).
In 1976 I relocated to Staunton, Virginia to work mid-days at WABH. Other stops include: WFIC - Martinsville (1977 Morning Drive), WROV – Roanoke (1980), and WXAM – Charlottesville VA (1981).
In 1983 I returned to Hampton Roads and worked at WNVZ (Z104) until 1987. In 1987 I worked at WGH AM/FM. It was like a dream come true to say the call letters on the air.
In 1993 I joined Sinclair Communications and have worked at WNIS, WTAR, 96X, The Coast, and BOB FM. Over the years I have hosted such shows as “Music Makers” on WNIS, and “Local X” on 96X. Whether its reading the news, sports, or interviewing a major recording artist I am the passionate professional.
I got to grow up in an incredible era of music and broadcasting. Today, I strive to communicate that same passion and enthusiasm when I’m on the air.
Favorite Group: The Beatles
Music Favorites:
60’s – The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Hollies, The Supremes
70’s – America, Crosby Stills and Nash, Led Zeppelin
80’s – U2, Prince
Favorite TV Shows: Shindig, Hullabaloo, Ready Steady Go!, Dog the Bounty Hunter, Criss Angel Mindfreak
Favorite Cartoons: Top Cat, The Beatles, The Jetsons
Favorite Actor: Clint Eastwood
Hobbies: record collecting, antiques, watching TV land, thrift stores
Favorite Subject: History
Favorite Movies: Play Misty for Me, Dirty Harry, Hard Days Night, FM
Sinclair Communications
