After an incredible 45-year run, an era is coming to an end: John Boy & Billy are retiring their legendary radio show! For generations of listeners in North Carolina and beyond, their morning show was more than just background noise; it was a daily ritual.
The news broke this morning, leaving many fans in shock. John Boy Isley and Billy James, the voices that have accompanied countless commutes and morning routines since 1980, made the unexpected announcement on WSFL 106.5 FM. Their nationally syndicated program, affectionately known as "The Big Show," will officially sign off at the end of the year.
But here's where it gets controversial... Some listeners are wondering if this truly marks the end of an era, or simply a transition to a new one.
While their radio presence is fading, the duo isn't disappearing entirely. They're making it clear that they'll remain active on other platforms, most notably Facebook. John Boy Isley himself urged listeners to follow their Facebook page, hinting at future projects and collaborations. "The Big Show will be retiring at the end of the year. I want to thank all the stations that are still carrying us, and I invite you to follow the John Boy & Billy Facebook page,” Isley stated. “So, that’s a good way to keep up with us, go ahead and start now, ‘cuz… you know, we’re going to do something!”
The team, including producer Jackie Curry-Lynch, expressed immense gratitude to their loyal audience. And this is the part most people miss... It wasn't just a show; it was a community. Curry-Lynch emphasized the multi-generational appeal of the program. "A major thank you to all our listeners. There are kids who have been listening since junior high school, and parents who have had their kids and grandkids listen,” she said. “We could not have done it all these years without the listeners.” This speaks volumes about the impact John Boy & Billy had on families, becoming a shared experience passed down through generations. Think about it: how many radio shows can boast that kind of legacy?
The question now becomes: what will the media landscape look like without "The Big Show" on the airwaves? Will their Facebook presence be enough to satisfy their devoted fanbase? And perhaps more importantly, how will morning radio fill the void left by these two icons? Or is the era of traditional radio coming to an end, with social media becoming the new 'airwaves'? What are your thoughts? Do you think their move to Facebook will be successful? Share your memories of John Boy & Billy in the comments below!
