Folder 7, Policy Book 068, News Promos, Billboarding, TNT Stations, 1955-1964

Abstract

Born June 8, 1921, in Paris, Texas, Gordon McLendon served as an interpreter in the U.S. Navy during World War II. In 1947, he established KLIF radio in Dallas, Texas. At the same time, he began the Liberty Broadcasting System, an independent affiliation that encompassed over 400 radio stations during its five years of operation. McLendon was a pioneer in recreating sporting events, using the voice of the "Old Scotsman." During the 1950s he developed the top 40 format (rapid fire music, news and contests). McLendon also owned a string of drive-in theaters, produced several motion pictures, and developed advertising campaigns for over 150 movies. In 1964, he campaigned for the Democratic nomination to the U.S. Senate against Ralph Yarborough. Over the course of his career, McLendon owned twenty-four radio stations. He died in 1986. ; The collection includes editorials, political files, political campaign materials, movie promotions, business correspondence, and radio station policy books. Additionally, there are recordings in various formats of interviews, editorials, soundtracks, movie promotions, easy listening music, documentaries, and advertisements. Of special interest are some of McLendon's editorials, including a series critical of Charles DeGaulle. ; The second and largest part of the collection is comprised of various forms of sound recordings. The sound recordings include sixteen and twelve-inch discs of radio programs, jingles, soundtracks, music, and historical recordings.