Radio Free Newport is…
…a collection of thoughts, ideas, and news, mostly centered on sociology, urban living, and music. I’m a sociology professor at Kent State University and a singer/songwriter. I’m in my early 40s and am married to a fabulous writer. I’m fueled by passionate music, Zen Buddhism, neo-Marxist philosophy, beautiful dogs, and an often shaky faith in humankind.
– David Purcell, 5/2009
Why “Radio Free Newport?”
Radio Free Newport was the catchphrase for WNOP, a fanastic jazz station in Newport, Kentucky (just across the Ohio River from Cincinnati). WNOP was housed in three giant tanks floating on the river, hence the nickname “the jazz ark.”. The station was legendary in jazz circles, partly because of veteran DJ Oscar Treadwell, who had songs written about him by Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, and Thelonious Monk. Unfortunately, WNOP was sold a few years ago and became…a Christian station. This site is inspired by (and indebted to) the free thought and creative vibes WNOP was famous for.