For this central Jersey writer, novelist, reporter, the notion of sitting in for a live global broadcast with  accomplished radio disc jockey (Rock N Tommy) was particularly thrilling; this was my first time in a radio station. I brought my NJ Discover TV camera to record for posterity.

Tommy  has been doing radio since 2001, firstly on a station called Top Shelf Oldies then briefly at WRBG in Delaware. Of course he loves music and sharing that love. Funny, within the first few minutes of being there and listening to him, I closed my eyes and was transported into the movie ‘American Graffiti’ when Richard Dreyfus (Curt) meets the famed disc jockey ‘Wolfman Jack’ in that famous ‘Popsicle’ scene at the radio station. I told Tommy thinking and feeling this was the highest compliment I could give him. Then he actually offered me a ‘Popsicle.’ Talk about back to the future.

He started his own station www.njkewl98.com  four years ago which has grown dramatically. He’s interviewed many artists ranging from the ‘Dixie Cups’ to BJ Thomas. Another love for Tommy is playing local and rising talent’s original music. He devotes a lot of energy into promoting local talent and plays original  music on his stream and mentioned if any local talent is interested, they can send  a CD by contacting  Rock N Tommy at  tommy@rocknoldies98.com

The following Sunday, I sat glued listening to Tommy for three hours on his oldies show; I just love being magic carpeted back to the malt shop memory days which his impeccable music selections did to me. Also fun was the musical chat room with world -wide listeners, although being somewhat shy, I mostly lurked. Hey, I’m a Jersey guy.   Tommy on Facebook. (https://www.facebook.com/rockntommy )  www.njkewl98.com

Tommy’s  programs on the station is Rock N Tommy Live Wed nights, Rock N Oldies Spot Saturday Nights and Malt Shope Of Memories Sunday Nights.  Other programs to check out are Mike Bollea’s Jukebox Party, BJ’s Soul Shack, and Tea Time with Paul Anthony.

When I left,  I hit Tommy with one of my better Arnold Schwarznegger impersonations, “I’ll be back.” I need oldies for my vascular cerebral circulation. This was a great night.

Tommy and Me