I have listened to WJFK since I heard the Greaseman doing “The Six Minute Workout.” From there, I heard the end of Don and Mike where they would play the clip from Animal House where John Belushi would tell us the German’s bombed Pearl Harbor. From there I discovered Howard Stern and figured out just how much fucking better talk radio was than any other medium. When the Junkies took over evenings on WJFK, this guy’s world was knocked on it’s ear. These 4 guys somehow made radio sound like 4 clowns sitting around hanging out shooting the shit. The Junkies were so good at what they did, that it sounded easy. Which it isn’t. But I’m glad it sounded easy, because that’s what gave me the idea that I had a chance at being in radio also.
That is why yesterday was such a dichotomy. There were so many good thoughts and memories coming through on the phones and so many people coming down to the station to drop of gifts and say thank you. It was wonderful to see. Couple that with the excitement of knowing that on Monday I get to start doing afternoon drive on the biggest sports station one could think of and that added up to some really great moments. On the flip side of that coin, it was the worst day of my life. Not only was the show ending that had brought me to this point, but the station it self was ending. The station that has met as much to me as any team or movie or even friend over the years. The station ended while I was in charge of a 5 hour chunk of the lineup.
I’m no fool. Everything that was said on the air yesterday was true. This format flip is a smart move. It makes sense. It has more to do with money and the changing world than it does anything else. But it still happened while I was there and it pains me. So many talented people have been on that station. Opie and Anthony, The Junkies, Stern along with Don and Mike. That’s why it was very special when Mike Omeara agreed to call into our show yesterday. Robb, Buzz, Bethanne and Mike were all tremendous to us. I have listened to all the various incarnations of that show over the year and it was never something I took for granted; being welcomed by them into the fold. Mike’s call yesterday was exactly like the rest of the day. Funny, amazing and horrible. It’s something that I’m not ready to listen to again, but it’s worth a listen if you haven’t heard it yet.
I love WJFK and thank CBS and everyone involved for allowing my employment there to continue. If you were a fan of any of the amazing shows that have come through that building, than you should click HERE and listen to this segment from the show. If you would like to hear the final segment of our small part of WJFK history, click here.
July 18th, 2009 at 12:09 pm
You da man Chad.
That pretty much summed up most of your (and WJFKs) fans feelings I think. It’s not that the flip is all that “bad”, it’s that it is different and we’re going to miss what we had.
I think we all take it personally when something we love gets taken away, but it’s the content and the talent that matters the most.
The format is just a mold for the ingredients.
July 18th, 2009 at 12:19 pm
I’ve been listening so long I took the show for granted, telling myself there’s no way you two would be off the air. I’m glad you’ll be on the new station, that’s the only thing that’ll keep me listening. I’ll miss every minute of your show from the Ar! sticker I still have in my car to the last minutes of the WJFK family.
July 18th, 2009 at 12:22 pm
I feel like a chapter of everyone’s life in this area ended last night. I’m sad and disappointed. So many things have happened in this economy that are difficult to deal with, and this is no exception. I’ve listened to WJFK since I was 9 years old and would hide in my room with head phones so my mom wouldn’t hear me listening to the adult content on Stern and Don and Mike. The last 18 years have been really special for me. If you had ever told me I would cry over a radio station, I would have laughed in your face. But I am much more affected by this than I thought I would be.
Good luck to everyone at the station. You have all been an important part of your listeners’ lives. Thanks for the memories and for making our lives a little more entertaining.
Thank you for your sentiments Chad. You as a fan and as on-air talent have expressed completely how the rest of us WJFK nuts feel. Keep your head up, man, and be proud of all that you have done for this city and WJFK. Thanks.
July 18th, 2009 at 12:25 pm
Chad,
I moved up to DC in the Summer of 2002, and my first exposure to WJFK was Opie & Anthony in afternoon drive. I had NEVER heard radio like that before, and had no idea how engaging and personal that format of talk radio could be. I would drive home and sit in my driveway waiting for a segment to end instead of going into my own house and seeing my girlfriend.
You, Oscar and Drab absolutely MASTERED the format and I’ve probably listened to every single podcast either live or on podcast (often both) since you started in evenings. My biggest regret is that I wasn’t more of an active listener, especially now that it is too late to do anything about it, but I wanted to let you know how important your show was to me even as a passive listener. It feels like I’m losing friends. Good luck to you and Drab in afternoons; I’ll be listening.
July 18th, 2009 at 12:29 pm
I was listening to the final segment yesterday and got a little choked up. You have nothing to be sorry for. We listeners owe you for the hard work, commitment, and dedication you put into the show. The other shows were good but yours was great. You’re gonna go onto doing great things. Thank you for entertaining the masses.
July 18th, 2009 at 1:02 pm
Thank you guys for all your hard work. I remember hearing one day Chad when you said a good radio program makes not want to turn your car off when you get to where you are going. Well, I commute from Fredericksburg to DC and back everyday, and even with that long commute, I would still listen to the end of the segment because it was hilarious. Being able to laugh when you are sitting on 95 on a Friday for hours in traffic, shows how special your show was. Thank you again.
July 18th, 2009 at 1:07 pm
chad,
wjfk will be missed. your sentiments are dead on. hold your head up and do great things on the fan.
July 18th, 2009 at 1:26 pm
your core following will continue. If you get all of us together, we ain’t got a gang, we’ve got an army
July 18th, 2009 at 1:38 pm
Chad, my connection to WJFK was almost exactly the same, although it started with Don and Mike as part of syndication. People all over the country got locked into that station. I’m glad I was, because You, Oscar and Drab were well on your way to creating one of the very best of the shows WJFK ever broadcast. Thanks for the last two years! And kick ass on Monday.
July 18th, 2009 at 1:40 pm
Chad,
I have followed The Big O and Dukes show since your time in Baltimore when I turned on the radio just hoping for something to get me thru work. I stumbled on to you and Oscar playing sports, drugs & rock and roll. And as the callers often do they flame out after 2 answers then you raddled off 4 answers and growled get off my phone! And I was hooked. Then I followed from The gumba Ed Norris to you and Bill Roland. I’ve listened to the bunker podcasts where banging turkey neck started. Then you guys killed in Arizona and moved back to JFK and I listened to every show and have 3 years of podcasts on my work computer. Anyways you exposed me to WJFK, the Junkies and Don and Mike. And their is no possible way I can thank you, Oscar and your other friend enough for all you have done for me just by making me laugh day after day. WJFK will be missed and so will your show, but I know you will end up doing the show with Oscar again… Your to damn talented not to. And I look forward to listening on Monday to see what’s next for the show.
July 18th, 2009 at 1:43 pm
When you guys said goodbye yesterday I cried I felt like boys where moving out of the house
July 18th, 2009 at 1:43 pm
Hear, Hear! You’re a great dude and let it be known that you are having the same affect on others as Mike and WJFK has had on you, namely, this guy.
July 18th, 2009 at 1:43 pm
not much else can be said to add on to that….best of luck to everyone associated with the station!
July 18th, 2009 at 1:47 pm
When you guys said goodbye yesterday I cried I felt like my boys where moving out of the house
July 18th, 2009 at 1:57 pm
Chad,
Thank your for that heartfelt essay. I could not have said it better myself. And thank you for all that you did for WJFK. No man worked harder than you. It was always clear that this station was your true love. I have been a fan of Don and Mike and the Mike O’Mera show for the past 15 years. I listened to them in Portland, Maine, Sacramento, and online. It was from listening to their show that I discovered Big O and Dukes. Your show was the best I have ever heard. As a 30 year old who was into all the same stuff, your show blew my mind. I will miss WJFK. I was just in D.C. two weeks ago and got more excited seeing the restaurants and places you talk about than the monuments and museums. I feel like I have lost a close friend, but I will listen to you and Drab on the FAN and give it a chance. Thank you so much Chad, and Drab is gay.
July 18th, 2009 at 2:30 pm
Chad, I know how you feel about your women listeners, and I am fine with that, but I also know that you do have at least some appreciation for us as fans. And that is what I am, a loyal, diehard fan! Much to the chagrin of my friends, I got so choked up yesterday. I feel like someone in hospice has died. I say hospice because we all had an inkling this was coming but it doesn’t hurt any less. You guys had a great show and I am sure Oscar will find something great. I am not too into sports, but I will listen to your new show because I want you and Booker T Shirt to do well. Stay strong and remember, “If you have a sandwich in your pants, you should pipe down.”
July 18th, 2009 at 2:35 pm
Well said Dukes. WJFK & Big O and Dukes were a huge part of my life. Thank you so very much for everything.
July 18th, 2009 at 2:49 pm
I remember when you first came on the air in Phoenix. Always being a fan of talk radio, but never being able to listen to anything other than political shit, I recognized am epic show when I heard it.
I understand how the business works and I know all of you will do great things.
Thank you for showing all of us what great radio can be and should be. It\\\’s the end of an era….and the start of a new one.
July 18th, 2009 at 2:55 pm
Will miss you guys! I listened to you all day everyday at work. Now what am I going to do? I wish you guys the best of luck. I sure am going to miss Chad yelling at people, Oscar’s laugh and Drab’s Gayness. Love you guys so much.
July 18th, 2009 at 3:28 pm
Chad..Chad..Chad.i cried when don signed off the “Don and mike show” i cried when the “adam carolla” show went away. now i sit here in vegas wondering how life will be driving around all day in my truck with nothing to listen to. i wish you the best on your new show. i am one of only a few non gay men that have no interest in sports.so i dont see my self catching much of the new show if its even going to be podcasted. shows like “Big O” “Don and Mike” “Adam Carolla” “Mike O’meara” made my day go by so fast because i would laugh my as off. mike O’meara tuned me on to “Big O and Dukes” once i discovered podcasting. i went out and got a real nice MP3 player and never missed a word of “The Mike O’meara show” or “The Big O and Dukes show” thanks CBS! you have broken my heart. i feel like ive lost a family member. good luck guys,love you all.
July 18th, 2009 at 3:33 pm
I was going to send you an email and ask how it felt to achieve one of your life long dreams, afternoon drive with a player from your favorite teams only to have it offset by the station you grew up with flipping formats and the show that got you to the dance going away. But you’ve already answered that here. Amazing and tragic at the same time. I feel for you buddy it’s got to be a whirlwind of emotions. Now all you can do is continue to do the amazing radio that we all know you can do.
July 18th, 2009 at 3:37 pm
Chad,
Your show has meant more than I think you realize to more people than you could imagine.
WJFK was epic, and you can know that you did something right because regardless of what happened, no matter what you did, you couldn’t leave us without us still wanting more.
I look forward to being part of your continued evolution and listening to your new show, but Big O and Dukes holds a special place in my heart.
I think it’s gonna hit me pretty hard Monday when I tune in and everything’s changed, but I have faith that these things happen for the best and if I’ve learned anything about you, Dukes, it’s that when you reach adversity you only grow stronger and more hilarious.
Best Wishes,
Shaun
July 18th, 2009 at 3:40 pm
Like many in the DC area, I grew up listening to Don and Mike on WAVA, and eventually followed them over to WJFK. Since then, I’ve been fortunate enough to catch all of the great shows that have swung through the station. Even against that cadre of talent, I have to say that I loved “Big O and Dukes” more than any of them.
I’ve been a BIG fan of yours ever since I first heard you guys on the Junkies. Once my job took me to driving n Mid-Days, I’ve been a freakin’ addict of your show. I’ll be listening to your new gig, that’s for sure, but MAN-does it ever suck to see WJFK leave…
Chad, I wish y’all the best of luck on “The Fan” (even if their new promos kind of suck)-I’ll be listening
July 18th, 2009 at 3:50 pm
I just started listening to your show during lunch about 2 months ago so this was lame to me too. I loved the O&A vs. DnM war and I’ll be honest, I was glad to see Don go although maybe that wasn’t the best for WJFK. But nothing lasts forever and at least you got to make your own show. That counts for a lot in the radio industry especially since personality radio shows have been on the decline in the past several years. I mean, you would go to work and rate snacks, do movie impressions, rant and make video movies. You had to know that wouldn’t last forever.
Personality radio really should have never gotten as big as it did it was kind of an anomoly that it got so big. But this was the inevitable course I suppose, after Stern retired and O&A self-combusted what else could pull in the revenue necessary to keep this a viable format around the country?
I will say you guys reminded me of Ron & Fez who I thought were the most talented on-air personalities I’ve ever heard. I still have my 106.7 Big Ass card in my wallet. And I thought you guys had a kind of humor in your show that was so much like theirs. Not a malicious kind like O&A would have but an accepting kind. So even though i got on at the end, I am thankful I heard your show for a little while at least. Hope archives can be found somewhere for earlier shows I missed out on.
NOW GET OVER IT DUKES YOU ARE DOING AFTERNOON DRIVE!
July 18th, 2009 at 3:53 pm
Thanks chad u just said what we are all thinking this is a real loss for the world of radio. Ive lived in the metro area my whole life and grew up on wjfk at 29 years old i feel like ive lost a hugh part of my entertainment life wish you all the best
July 18th, 2009 at 4:13 pm
I love the idea of hearing you talk about my favorite football team more frequently , and it’s great your getting such a coveted time slot, but it’s fucking killing me that I won’t ever hear BOAD again. I feel pathetic saying that about a radio show full of guys I’ve never met, but it’s true. I tried to explain it to other people and it just doesn’t come across.
Pathetically devastated.
July 18th, 2009 at 4:28 pm
I can’t tell you how much your all’s show and WJFK has meant to me over the years. Sorry to make this about me, but… Anyways, being a truck driver in DC, the radio was my one friend in traffic. When you guys took over for O and A, it became the best line up in the staion’s history. I loved you all on HFS, hated when you went to AZ, and rejoiced when you came back. I would hate the 10-20 minutes I would miss when unloading crap to the stores. Big O and Dukes and TMOS were the best part of my day.
It was hard enough when little over a year ago Don retired, but at least the following monday everybody knew Mike would still be there with Robb and Buzz. This Monday there won’t be any saving grace to the change. While you and the homosexual Drab will still be on air, it’s with LaVar… I’m gonna try to listen to your new show, but I really hate Arrington (Brackens ex-wife). He’s an a**hole, his ego and attitude is why he was let go from the skins, and now he’s taken the time slot of one of my favorite show and destroyed the other.
I hope you know how much joy your show has brought it’s listeners, and I wish you nothing but the best of luck in your future. Really hope it won’t be long until Big O and Dukes are reunited though….
July 18th, 2009 at 4:36 pm
I stopped getting Sirius because of the O and Dukes Show.
This better not suck.
July 18th, 2009 at 5:20 pm
Chad–WJFK was legendary. I know when people talk about the history of the station, they will talk about you and Oscar. You guys changed the game. Your show was unlike anything I’ve ever heard, or will hear again. The way you communicate with your fans is revolutionary. We fans are all better off for having listened to you everyday. Thanks.
July 18th, 2009 at 5:32 pm
Chad-
Thank you for doing what you do. Just as you described how you felt about The Junkies, I felt the same about you, Oscar, and Drab. It was as if three jackasses were sitting around BS’ing, and someone happened to leave a microphone on. I rarely had the opportunity to listen to the show live (save the maneuver every once in a while), but I podcasted every show. You got me through a commute to and from Fredericksburg every damn day and you made the drive easier.
Yesterday’s finale was sad for me, just as it was for you and every other listener. Fortunately, you and Drab will still be on and I hope your new show does well- I will continue to listen and podcast. I also hope that Oscar finds his place and continues his success.
Thanks again, Chad. You three (as a group) will be greatly missed. Best of luck on the new show.
July 18th, 2009 at 6:40 pm
Chad
The Big O and Dukes show is the best radio show in DC period. I have listenned to the show for the past rwo years. Y\\\’all have kept me laughing at work, I just want to say thank you for having one of the greastest shows in DC history!
Chad bring that same humor, fire and intensity Monday at 2. I, like others will be eagerly waiting. Drab keep getting those top notch guests for the new show. GoodLuck to Oscar, please keep us updated on his next move.
Thank you Once again
July 18th, 2009 at 7:19 pm
It’s been emotional.
Thank you for the so many laughs and good times. You have my continued support, and I will be doing fist pumps when I can hear the 3 of you together again. Good luck and best wishes to everyone involved with the best show ever.
July 18th, 2009 at 8:08 pm
Chad, Thank you so much for every thing you guys have done. You guys and every other show on the station got me through my day. I loved WJFK. I moved to the DC area about 12 years ago and have been hooked sense, up till then I hated talk radio, now I can’t listen to anything else. There was always something on the station that would make you smile and laugh. I was surprised with how choked up I got yesterday, first when Mike called and then when you guys signed off. It was not your fault you have nothing to be sorry for. Thanks for the last two years of great radio, Good luck on Monday. I’ll be listening.
July 18th, 2009 at 8:35 pm
I’m gonna miss the Big O and Dukes Show,it’s been really good.But i’ll be listening to the Fan.Do your thing Chad…
July 18th, 2009 at 9:01 pm
Chad you are an amazing person. Don’t take blame for what happened at JFK. Just because the flip happened while you were there when it happened…It’s clearly not your fault. Wjfk has meant so much to me too. I don’t know where I”m going with this but, you and your show are amazing. Thank you for everything!
P.S. If I see Lavar in the next MEM video I’ll do fistbumps for weeks.
July 18th, 2009 at 10:01 pm
Chad-
Thanks for a great post and (hopefully not) last 3 days of the Big O and Dukes Show. I truely did not think I could be this emotional over the loss of a radio show. You, Oscar and Drab kept me entertained every minute through my afternoon. And honestly, I think you had the best show on WJFK. As for WJFK, I understand the flip, and also am happy you landed a spot, and hoping Oscar lands somewhere good for him. However, I was first exposed to WJFK 6 years or so ago on my first trip to scout out apartments in DC when a friend of mine took me to a Don and Mike Las Vegas-style event. I’ve been a fan ever since, and loved every second listing to WJFK since then. I really don’t think I can listen to 7+ hours of sports talk in one day as I was so happy to listen to 7+ hours of the old WJFK. I hope you, Oscar, Drab, and Mike and team can hook up somewhere on the DC radio airwaves in the future. You’ll have a big following and be a hit. Untill then, hoping you and Oscar can do a few podcasts and look forward to them on bigoanddukes.com.
Drab is gay.
July 18th, 2009 at 10:30 pm
If You were not gonna be on with Lavar and they let you go I Probably would just listen to the Junkies and then turn the dial.I heard the Big O and Dukes for the first time by Accident because I had worked late and happened to be in my work truck at 7:00 pm on the day of your fist show on Wjfk and I was hooked.I will give the New lineup a chance,I mean I Know I will Listen to the Junks and your new show,but I hope Mike Wise lives up to what The Big O and Dukes were to me.Good Luck with the new show and keep everybody informed of Oscars Plans,Thanks For the Fun!!!!
July 18th, 2009 at 10:52 pm
I’m about to make this all about me, but I’m doing it so that you know how much you and your show meant to people. Its not really about me, its about you.
I am not exaggerating or doing any sort of shtick when I say that I have shied away from getting my hair cut short for over two years, just so that I could continue to hide an ear-bud headphone under it so that I could listen to WJFK while I was at work. I listen to the Junkies and I listen to Mike O’Meara, but it was specifically all about your show. I bought a Zune instead of an Ipod specifically because the Zune had an FM receiver built into it and the Ipod didn’t. I adopted a dog named Duke shortly before your show came on the air, and his name has practically been changed to “Fukes” or “Fukerton” or just “Dukes” if he’s lucky.
I don’t know what my point is here, but I do know that wanted to have sex with your radio show, and I just about cried with you during that final segment on Friday. The idea that somewhere in the back of your mind you felt like any of this was your fault was awful to me, because it wasn’t your fault at all. If anything, you and Oscar and Drab and everyone involved in your show helped postpone this inevitability at least a little longer. If you weren’t hanging around, I might not have given The Fan the time of day, but I trust you to continue the tradition of fantastic radio and I will be listening with my pants off everyday. Yes, Pants-less at work.
Keep up the good work, and long live Big O and Dukes.
July 18th, 2009 at 11:09 pm
Just listened to the last segment again Chad - and seriously, it’s not you’re fault! We fans understand it’s a format change and you all need to roll with it. Yes, it’s the economy and ratings system, but CBS is stupid to loose the best radio staion they had. We don’t blame you at all. Don’t say it was on your watch. You worked VERY hard - from all the promotions to the MEM events. You and Oscar had the best show on WJFK, and I might say, in the nation - period. I know we all do hope you all can re-group together in the future. I’m looking forward to it.
July 19th, 2009 at 12:04 am
I was just like you in high school, I had a $4 tiny radio I\’d hook up one ear bud and listen to Stern all morning. I graduated the same year he finished on fm. My second semester @ mcc freefm took over with an entire day of pretty great radio. Adam really evolved and became what his show became, fhf were good, and the professor got his pieces of the nation to start their critical thinking skills again. Nights with the other hack douche sucked ass, and you guys came in and saved the valley. After 3 years of listening to the big o and dukes show, you guys were really my favourite. At no point did it become old or repetitive. I listened every night here in Phx, podcasting anything I had to miss, and podcasted every single segment in D.C. without fail. If you set out to become a great successful radio host, you win, you did it. Thank you for years of laughter I spent walking my various places of business and ASU with a giant stupid grin on my face, and sometimes innapropriatly laughing out loud and having to apologize. Or when co-workers asked if I was listening to some funny comedian and just saying “no, its just talk radio”
July 19th, 2009 at 12:27 am
Damn man, I feel like I was just at funeral for a friend.
July 19th, 2009 at 12:56 am
I dont understand what the hell happened. Im still in shock. I have a bad week and I come back to my car, and I find out that my boys are leavin me. I thought that talk radio was gay till I heard these guys talkin about where the weirdest place was that they got laid. Or, how bout having sex while driving. Comon now, thats just crazy. You dont hear that everyday. So, I get my “hubby” hooked on it (and hes not tired of me). He loved you guys. We came out to the DC area a little over a year ago. We go from Gaithersburg to Bethesda almost everyday. You made him laugh and smile when he was on his way to get his chemo at the NIH. Thats a hard thing to do. He told me to call you guys and tell you thanks all the time, but I thought you would just think I was bein gay, so I didnt. Well, I want to tell you now. Thank you. He said you made him remember what it was like to not be sick. He was exactly the kind of guy you all are. Ruthless, unrelenting, male chovenistic pigs. I love it. He loved it. We will miss you. All of you. The Junkies, Big O & Dukes, Mike O’meara. All of you. I LOVED B.Y.O.B Fridays. That was awesome radio.
July 19th, 2009 at 2:07 am
I love the show !I really don\’t know what I am going to do !
You guys don\’t know what you meant to me ! I listened to every podcast.
the show made me hate weekends …. i was always looking forward to a new week to listen to Chad Oscar and drab…I lost my job about two weeks before you announced the format flip and .. It was kinda hard but you guys kept me going for those two weeks. When I heard you guys were no longer going to do the show, I had the same feeling i had when my dad passed away….
July 19th, 2009 at 5:14 am
1) Fuck Daniel (a few posts above)
2) Our fearless leader,
Thank you so much for everything. You, Oscar and Drab were the most original, honest, and amazing radio I\’ve heard/witnessed in my entire life. You called it like it was, owned to what opinions you have…and didn’t back peddle like D\’Angelo Hall for one second. If anything, when confrontation presented itself you took a step forward and said ‘Bring it on’.
I\’ve posted on hear a few times and messaged you on F\’book. I started listening when I moved to DC in April of 2008. Since then, I did not miss a single show live (stream) or via podcast. In the last year and a half I\’ve been to Atlanta, Orlando, Denver, DC, and 3 more cities in Australia and your show was the one constant that helped me get through my day.
I\’ll continue to support the new show…but I agree with the mentality that this was not the end of BO&D but simply a sabatical.
Thank you for everything.
July 19th, 2009 at 3:36 pm
Now that wjfk has the perfect line-up, CBS again shows their ass. For years we had to suffer with mid-day crap!!! G. Gordon Liddy and Bill o’rielly and ooooh rome’s on fire. jam one up his….Once we got rid of that with the addition of the “Big O and Dukes” show, WJFK became the one station that removed the need for presets on my radio. I am dpressed and I don’t think I am alone. I like the junks, but I don’t think they understand what is coming. CBS is the ‘Evil Empire’ and things will change for them too. Chad I love you brother but kicking your bud to the side is bad kharma. Even though I wish you good luck. I just hope Lavar does’t put a fist through your face.
July 19th, 2009 at 6:51 pm
I started listening to wjfk back when the sports junkies were doing evenings. Since then I became addicted to talk radio listening to Stern, a little of Don and Mike, Ron and Fez, MOM, and then I started listening to Big O and Dukes. Your show was the best of them all. I remember coming home to my wife and discussing what was going on with O&D and Drab like I was there. I got a lot of blank stares but I couldn\’t help myself.
The last thing we need is another sports talk radio station and I love sports. It stinks Oscar is leaving but if it\’s true that he has a job I can understand why Chad decided to stay on. In this economy you can\’t blame anyone for taking a job that may not be their ideal gig. I don\’t know what i\’m going to do now at work.
July 19th, 2009 at 8:16 pm
Doug in fredericksburg can go kick rocks… Standing on principle is a novel idea but it doesn’t pay the bills. You should sympathize that it would be impossible to get a job in radio in this current economy. Oscar has a job at CBS and will continue to excel while growing his fan base, and that is exactly what Chad will do the same. Your crazy to think that Chad wanted to do a show with Lavar more then the show that the boys poured there blood, sweat and tears into. Sometimes you have to adapt to survive… I have no doubt in my mind that Big O and Dukes will resurface and be bigger then ever.
July 20th, 2009 at 12:33 am
I have to say that the news of the format flip has hit me hard. I first listened to WJFK as an affiliate of Don and Mike in 2002. After a three year run with D and M in Buffalo, the station that carried them flipped to Jack fm. I was grateful for being exposed to a type of radio that I had not experienced before, but was bitter at the loss of what was an all day experience for me which also included Leykis for about six months. Luckally streaming was available and podcasts of WJFK\\\’s shows followed shortly after that, allowing me to still listen to the greatest radio station that I have had the pleasure to listen to. Thankfully the Junks will still be brodcasting so I can still get my fix, but when I heard the Big o and Dukes show was no more I felt as If a close friend has died. I have listened to every segment since you came to JFK and found many of the old arizona podcasts and listened to a large number of them as well.
I will miss Drabs gayness, Oscars laugh (though annoying at first, it became indearing), and Fukes hard headed and rough exterior, though i have a feeling he was not as tough as he put across the airwaves. The chemistry that you have with each other is not something that is found on many shows, and I am saddened that I will not be able to hear it anymore.
It is good that you and drab will be able to continue brodcasting on the new format. Considering the economy that we are in I understand that It wasnt much of a choice to continue working. I sincerely hope that you and oscar will be able to resume your career together on another station in the near future, cause you two are boys and have went through alot together. I wish the best for Oscar in this tough time and cannot wait until you are back together doing what you do best. Sorry but Lavar Arrington can\\\’t carry The Big O\\\’s jock in this industry, and though the format flip is seen as a good change by the powers that be, in my opinion FUCK THEM and their great idea. Selfishly I almost hope that the new format fails out of spite, for taking away my one of my favorite shows.
Good luck Chad and drab with the new show, but hopefully Big O and Dukes will be back sooner than later.
July 20th, 2009 at 4:26 am
im having a PANIC ATTACK starting tomarrow from 10-6 will miss the hell out of the big o and dukes show, and mike and gang. i know dukes is on air but its just not the same. it will most likly be sports with shtick not shtick with some sports.
July 20th, 2009 at 7:36 am
Chad, if you have been a fan of WJFK as I have been over the years you may already know how it has help out during the tough times; My divorce, my dad’s heart attack, and my mom’s battle with cancer. The morning I lost my mom I tuned into The Big O and Dukes show because I knew you guys would make me smile. I’ve been honored to listen to your show and to call you friend. Now I got the Faggies!
July 20th, 2009 at 9:39 am
Radio GOD Status…!
July 20th, 2009 at 10:48 am
Does anyone know where can I hear the podcasts for the rest of the show? They’ve already taken down the wjfk.com site!
July 20th, 2009 at 11:14 am
Thanks for the wonderful sentiments, Chad. I remember listening to the Don & Mike Show in the car on my way to elementary school, then I started listening to the Junkies and then I found your show. Because you are closer to my age, and local, your show hit a chord with me like no other. You all kept me company in my cubicle and during my commute. You all did a bang up job and should be tremendously proud. I am not really a sports fan, but if anyone can convert me, you can. I will be listening to you today at 2.
Thanks for all the laughs.
July 20th, 2009 at 12:14 pm
I just listened to the final segment of big o and dukes… tear jerker, ive listened to wjfk since i was 10 or so mainly getting hooked with the grease man
then listening to howard stern in the morning, my mom HATED it, lol, it was my long life dream to be a radio personality, i obviously have not been able to do it. but this radio station has meant so much to me, big o and dukes quickly became my favorite show when i heard them move into the 10-2 slot. the three shows put together were amazing, it was always fun to hear the guys go onto the the other shows and hang out. talk radio gets me through the day, its not the same 5 songs every hour, but friends and family who you are interested in hearing about. big o and dukes did this the best, they brought their life to the show, weather it was good bad or ugly, you guys never had shame in asking or talking about a personal thing. chad, i want to say your apology was not needed, although it was extremely meaningful and brought a sadness to my heart to see you guys go through this, you have nothing to be sorry for, you and oscar have brought me much laughter, anger, happiness, and many other things to my boring work days. i look forward to hearing you with lavar, and will support the show greatly, but i dont think i will ever hear anything as good as you and oscar and drab together. Thank you for everything
July 20th, 2009 at 1:35 pm
I just got back from vacation late last night. (Sunday) What a surprise to find out my favorite radio show is no more. I listened everyday while driving around this town.
I don’t know what the hell to do now. This really sucks monkey ass. Chad …we have never met and maybe never will. However, you are one funny talented S.O.B. who has made me laugh so hard that my head would get dizzy because the lack of oxygen. I’ve even soaked a few shirts by spitting up sodas while driving. I will check in at this website to find out where you may turn up at. Good luck to you and the rest of “The gang” …Your show will be missed by this faithful listener.
July 20th, 2009 at 2:43 pm
Fukes I cannot believe this has happened. I go to Jamaica for a week and I come home and realize my favorite radio show is no more. I started listening to the Big O and Dukes show 2 years ago while I was going to the University of Maryland. For the last year I have listened to you on the stream at my boring ass job. I don’t know how im going to get through the day without the 3 of u. Your show was special and would like to thank you for all the laughs and hope to see you guys reunited in the future.
July 21st, 2009 at 7:04 pm
I will miss Big O and Dukes greatly…. I started listening to you guys when you were on at nights at WJFK and every single day during middays. I\’ll miss Mike O Meara also, but B.O.A.D. was definately my number 1 seed. I\’ve been giving the new Lavar show a chance this week so far…. I just can\’t wait till B.O.A.D. reunite. Until then, good luck to the BIG O, Drab, & Dukes. I\’ll follow you guys wherever you go. Big O & Dukes the best show on radio.
July 21st, 2009 at 11:04 pm
big o and dukes was a show that i would listen to for 2-3 hours a day, followed by podcasts of segments i missed after i got home. and the ‘maneuver’ was performed countless times over the past year. chad, i’ll be a fan of yours regardless, but, even though it’s early, i’m not optimistic about what your new broadcast partner brings to the table. shit, i really hope you’re keeping an eye on a reunion with oscar down the road….you guys really had something good going. no bullshit, snacks was some of the best shit i ever heard on the radio. all the best.
July 22nd, 2009 at 10:27 am
I’m pissed. I have been thinking about this since Friday. You apologized on the last segment of the BOAD show for letting the station fail on your watch. Fu¢k you Chad!!! You don’t need to apologize for having one of the best shows ever on the air. I live in California and just grew use to hearing Don and Mike on a daily occasion and that was 17 years ago. That spoils you. When you heard great radio, mediocre radio just sucks balls.
When Don went away, I kept listening to wjfk via itunes radio stream because they said how good you were. Nuff said for a reference and I started listening. You and Oscar have a better and more balanced Chemistry than Don and Mike at your age even with all of the god damned restrictions that the FCC has put on radio over the years.
I will continue to listen to you because I like, no love, hearing the venom that you spew (99% truth 1% shtick) and not because I like sports radio. I hate sports radio but will continue to be a fan of wjfk and you. Thank you for all of the hard work. I will follow you bastards on the BOAD site. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
July 22nd, 2009 at 2:51 pm
I loved the Big O and Dukes show. I was unfortunately out of town when the final shows went down.
However, I was listening to the Podcasts and heard the discussions regarding “The Maneuver” going down in history.
Hence, please review and update the following edit to Chad’s Wikipedia entry:
==Notable Contributions==
Chad is the co-creator of “The Maneuver”.
The Maneuver consists of purchasing fast food from a vendor via the drive in window. Whilst ordering and picking up their food order the customer must be shirtless, and preferably pantsless. In the midst of the exchange of monies for food the manueverer must inquire of the food service employee, “It sure is hot out here, isn’t it?” This question must be posed regardless of the whether conditions and ambient temperature outside, e.g., in the middle of December when the outside temperature registers -10 below on the Fahrenheit scale and is rhetorical in nature.
Immediately following the collection of their food product the manueverer must pull their vehicle into a space in the establishments parking lot, tune their radio to a show hosted by either “The Big O’ or Chad, or alternatively replay an podcast of “The Big O and Dukes Show” from their time at WJFK and proceed to consume their meal.
Favorite locations for executing the maneuver are:
McDonald’s
Jack in the Box
Checkers
In-and-Out Burger
Sonic
Arby’s
Taco Bell (with the Volcano option)
Also to be sorely missed:
1. The Oscar voice
2. The megaphone
July 22nd, 2009 at 6:43 pm
The final moments of that last BOAD segment was one of the saddest things I’ve ever heard come out of the speaker. Loved your show and i hope you get another shot at the Guy-Talk format.
July 22nd, 2009 at 7:08 pm
Bob said,
Does anyone know where can I hear the podcasts for the rest of the show? They’ve already taken down the wjfk.com site!
The podcast are still up on itunes under big o and dukes.
July 23rd, 2009 at 9:57 am
I moved to DC in 2005. I used to claim to hate talk radio until a friend introduced me to the Junkies. I’m more into that show than I’ve ever been into any tv program or movie. After a while I kept JFK on after the show and got hooked on you guys. You got me through the day while sitting at my desk at work! My colleagues would often wonder why random laughter was coming from my cubicle. I was devastated to find out you were going off the air…I really wanted to make it to your last apperance at the Draft House, but I was out of town. Thanks for the laughs and keeping me sane at work.
July 24th, 2009 at 4:28 am
man i move to laurel doing things to set myself up couldn\’t get wjfk so was just listening to cd\’s, come down to do shoulder rehab and find out they flipped my favorite station, mad was not a word i would use to describe my feelings, violent is the closes i can think of. i hear you with lavar and think how you don\’t sound quite yourself. man i hope either the rating system ppl realize they should reward stations with active listeners (i\’ll hold my breathe for that), or you guy can get the show on some where i can find. man i really hate the way they make you sound like a side kick in the promos. dude your fuckin batman, war machine, captain America not robin or bucky. i listen to the final 2 segments of your show and man i know you would have done anything to keep it they way it was, there was nothing you could have done. man we all knew the only thing you sweated more then wjfk was red white and blue.
July 24th, 2009 at 9:32 am
My wife and I left for vacation early Friday morning. I brought a CD with the podcasts of Wednesday and Thursday’s show. We listened to them on the drive to and from Canada. When I got back into town yesterday I burned the podcasts of the final show and listened to it all. Those were the best three days in radio history. I am going to miss Big O and Dukes like a lost family member. Your show was a huge part of my daily routine and it always brightened up my day. The chemistry between you and Oscar was fantastic and Oscar always brought out the best in you. I listened to some of your new show yesterday and I have to say that it is not the same. Lavar needs to let you take charge of the show and he needs to figure out how to react to a joke, if he gets the hang of it then you guys could be very good together. I will keep listening as I think you are the most talented personality on radio but I hope for the day when the higher ups reunite you with Oscar. Best of luck!
July 24th, 2009 at 3:53 pm
Big O and Dukes show was the best show ever. The show was a big part of my day. I miss it very much. Hopefully you guys will get back together sometime soon. The Lavar and Dukes show is starting to come together. Good luck to you and Drab.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:48 pm
Mr. Fukerson. Like many, I have been listening to WJFK for a long time. For me, it started in 1992 when I started commuting to D.C. from Calvert County (though I am a Baltimore native…don’t hold that against me). I was first hooked on Don and Mike (though Mike is very talented….Don was the main appeal…and in many ways he reminds me of you…) Hooked on “hot talk”, I found Stern entertaining for a while..but he is a little ego-centric for me…a little to much into himself….then came the Junkies…who I loved the most until I heard the Big O and Dukes Show! Your show was the best breath of fresh air that washington has had in a long time. You and the Big O played off each other as true professionals. Oscar said that if we felt that we knew him…he had done his job…well I (and many in the D.C. area) came to think of both you and big O as “friends”…so in a very real way…you and Oscar did your job.
I know that leaving that format was hard for you. Everyone could hear it in your voice that last show. And while you did not feel you were strong enough to walk away…don’t kick yourself too much on that….the country is in a very deep recession right now…not looking out for yourself would have been irresponsible. As for the Big O…he exited WJFK with Grace, Dignity and Class…more so that others who had to leave…I have no doubt that the Big O will land on his feet. I hope that you and he are reunited sometime in the future. Both of you are stand up dudes…
As for your current show with Lavar…I listed to the first 3 days so far. Each day has gotten better. For a Sports show, Lavar has a real talent…at least for football…which is all you have discussed to date….whether or not he can expand to other sports is an unanswered question at this point… However, he is likeable and I think will be a success….as for you …Mr. Dukes…you were a little submissive on the first day but grew more comfortable in days 2 and 3….keep it up….Stay confident…Remain Nash Dukes!!!
Dave, from Calvert County, MD
July 26th, 2009 at 3:42 pm
This is rediculous!!! It is apparent that people running WJFK did not know how to manage or market the best personality radio in the DC area. My radio is now worthless. I say we do something about this. I propose that a group of fans get together and start a new radio station. I am willing to work with all who are didicated and driven. If we come up with a good plan we can make it happen. Emai me at mrwilliams20602@hotmail.com if you are interested.
July 27th, 2009 at 12:55 am
Chad, I think I have a similar love of the station as you. My first introduction to talk radio was hearing my Dad talk about the Don and Mike Show because it was on during his carpool. The ball started rolling there, and years later when I started listening to the Junkies I kind of felt the same way as you. I talked to you about that at Foodstock 2, I remember you calling in to their show, and really I was WJFK’s Bitch. Whatever they put on, I listened too. I worked for several years driving so I was able to listen to WJFK all day. When you got a show the first time I was excited because I enjoyed hearing you call in to the Junkies. I Digress. I was WJFKs bitch and I’m sad to see it go. Don’t beat yourself up though.
I consider myself lucky to have gotten to listen to the Big O and Dukes show since you came back from Pheonix. I don’t think any show will entertain me in quite the same way. Even though I enjoy the new show, I don’t think I will have the chance to have people stare at me while I’m LOLing in my car while doing The Maneuver.
I only joined twitter to follow you guys, hope sometime down the line I can laugh like that again.
Jason from Sterling
Big guy in the Redskins hat
July 27th, 2009 at 2:09 pm
Chad, I really enjoyed your show although I just found it on-line about a year ago. Have you considered doing the show on-line exclusively? Maybe doing a daily podcast using http://www.blogtalkradio.com I have been listening to your new show but I really miss the variety and humor on the Big O and Dukes show.
July 28th, 2009 at 8:33 pm
I still haven’t listened to the last show because i know its going to be painful. Your blog made teary. You and Oscar are so great and your show quickly became my favorite out of all the shows on WJFK. You had nothing to do with the flip. And I wish both of you the best of luck w/your new projects. I just hope someday you two will be back on the air together. I miss you guys so much.
August 1st, 2009 at 10:04 pm
Chad Dukes we up here in Spokane await your return.
we miss you.
August 1st, 2009 at 10:07 pm
the mega phone voice kicked ass!
the rave out about your mom almost made me cry. It was one of the finest moments in radio history.
August 5th, 2009 at 10:48 am
A very well-said goodbye. You are one class act, Dukes.
Will keep taking hits of the posted content until you all are back together on the radio again.
Like Mike O’Meara said on your last show, “Keep on Rockin’”