Interview with Erik Anderson Reese, October 13, 2008

Interview Summary

Reese begins the interview by discussing his career as a professor at the University of Kentucky, as well as his time spent at the university as a student. Subsequently, Reese describes his first meeting with Kathleen "Kakie" Urch, one of the founders of WRFL. The interviewee's first memory of WRFL, and a commentary upon the culture of the student newspaper, the Kentucky Kernel, are examined. Obstacles that arose when WRFL was being established are also mentioned. Lexington's counterculture is then explored. Reese articulates his first impression of WRFL once it first went on the air. Reese also talks about his friend Scott Ward, who worked for the radio station during its outset. Reactions to WRFL from students are chronicled, as well as the hypothetical reaction from WRFL to Tipper Gore's campaign to reduce vulgarity in songs and on the radio. The importance of WRFL and its free speech values are emphasized. The interviewee highlights the students who currently work for WRFL and reveals his favorite aspects of the radio station. Reese concludes the interview by remarking upon the durability and stability of WRFL throughout its twenty-year history (at the time of this interview).

Interview Keyword

WRFL Kakie Urch Kentucky Kernel (newspaper)

Interview LC Subject

Broadcasting--Kentucky--History Lexington (Ky.). Radio Radio broadcasters--Interviews Radio--History. University of Kentucky Professors Writing

Interview Rights

All rights to the interviews, including but not restricted to legal title, copyrights and literary property rights, have been transferred to the University of Kentucky Libraries.

Interview Usage

Interviews may be reproduced with permission from Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, Special Collections, University of Kentucky Libraries.