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We are thrilled to announce a new addition to the Bluegrass Planet Radio lineup that will surely have you tapping your feet and embracing the soulful sounds of Bluegrass, Gospel, and Country music. Starting December 6, 2023, every Wednesday at 7 pm Eastern, get ready for an extraordinary musical journey with the Big Al & Sandy Radio Show.
How to Tune In
You can catch the show on Live365, TuneIn, or Online Radio Box by downloading their FREE apps and searching for Bluegrass Planet Radio.
Meet Big Al Weekley
Al Weekley, affectionately known as "Big Al," hails from Ravenswood, West Virginia, right on the banks of the Ohio River. His love affair with radio began in 1987 when the Bluegrass band he played in was invited to perform live at Ohio University's radio station, WOUB FM. Mesmerized by a DJ spinning records after the show, he expressed his interest, leading to a fateful conversation that set him on a path to radio stardom.
Big Al's radio journey started at WOUB FM, where he worked for four years. His show, "The Big Al Bluegrass Show," became a staple on his hometown station, WMOV 1360 AM, where he hosted it for a remarkable fifteen years. The show also found a home on West Virginia's WOTR 96.3 FM since 2012.
A Remarkable Career
Big Al's expertise in radio expanded through roles such as music director at WMOV. In 1999, he joined the 50,000-watt powerhouse KRVN 880 AM in Lexington, Nebraska, broadcasting across 16 states. Two years ago, he began contributing to Music Charts Magazine®, interviewing legendary musicians with a focus on Country and Bluegrass.
Apart from radio, Big Al is a talented musician and songwriter, collaborating with industry icons like Dave Dudley and Leroy Van Dyke. His involvement in various Country and Bluegrass festivals as a master of ceremonies reflects his passion for the genre and community engagement.
Recognitions and Awards
Big Al's contributions to preserving the history of Bluegrass, Gospel, and Country music have earned him numerous accolades. He received the Old Time Country and Bluegrass Music Preservation Award in 2013 and was inducted into the Nebraska Country Music Hall of Fame the same year. Notably, he has been nominated as one of the IBMA Top 5 Bluegrass broadcasters twice in 2003 and 2014.
The Move to Virginia
Fifteen years after his tenure at KRVN, Big Al Weekley embarked on a new adventure, leaving the western skies for Virginia. Alongside his wife, recording artist Sandy Shortridge, he now calls 92.1 WDIC FM Clintwood, Virginia, home for The Big Al and Sandy Radio Show.
Beyond Bluegrass Planet Radio
In addition to Bluegrass Planet Radio, you can catch Big Al and Sandy on The Bluegrass Jamboree and Country Music News International, sharing their love for music far and wide.
Don't miss the chance to experience the magic of the Big Al & Sandy Radio Show every Wednesday at 7 pm Eastern, starting December 6, 2023. Join us in welcoming this dynamic duo to the Bluegrass Planet Radio family!