Meet Bob Werne. Going on his 20th year here at KCRW, he has the music knowledge and a vinyl collection to rival the grand Tom Schnabel himself. He is our living history. He can remember when Morning Becomes Eclectic began. He was there. Bob is also a man of few words, so let’s help him out…
HE ROCKS!
Where did you grow up and are you an only child?
I was born and raised in Los Angeles and have a sister.
What is your current occupation?
I work doing basic bookkeeping in a family furniture business.
What is your fantasy occupation?
My fantasy occupation? To have been a music teacher at Beverly Hills High School!
When did you first discover KCRW?
I discovered KCRW many years ago when Tom Schnabel was hosting Evening Becomes Eclectic. For the first time, I heard music that I could not find on any other station. From that point on, I was hooked!
How did you find your way to our station for volunteering?
Around 1993, I heard a KCRW promo asking for volunteers. I immediately called and had my front office position after a short while. I have also worked in the music library.
What’s your current volunteer position and how long have you been at it?
Currently, I am a production assistant for Tom Schnabel. No easy task! But I enjoy every second of it!
Favorite volunteer moment?
My favorite volunteer moment? Every moment I spend at KCRW is my favorite moment. However, the best moment was running the board in Master Control while Tom Schnabel was doing a World Music remote at the Hollywood Bowl. Intense, but very rewarding to have done this for Tom and KCRW.
If you could get on the mic and say one sentence on the air, what would it be?
Since I have been on mic at KCRW, I would just stress the importance of KCRW in the radio community. There is no other station like KCRW, as we all know.
What song have you hit repeat on lately?
The song I hit repeat on lately was “All My Tomorrows” by Frank Sinatra. A beautiful ballad with amazing string arrangements.
Favorite book, movie?
A favorite movie? “The Hustler” starring Jackie Gleason and Paul Newman. Incredible music score by Kenyon Hopkins
Favorite thing to do outside the station (hobbies, recreation, etc.)?
Outside the station? RECORD STORES! I love spending time in record stores looking for gems of music on vinyl. I am also studying Classical Guitar which I also love.
What does KCRW mean to you?
KCRW is like a home away from home. I feel important to be part of such an important radio station. I also feel that I am a part of an elite group of people helping to make KCRW what it is…the best radio station on the FM dial. I am approaching my 20th year at the station!
Bob predates all but a few people here at KCRW. And, as we watch the newbies (both employed and volunteer) come through our halls with their energy and enthusiasm, one can honestly say that they still don’t match Bob’s quiet, steady passion. It’s that passion for music discovery and its connection to KCRW that has unwaveringly led him to our studios for something like 1,040 weekends (and beyond)! Thanks Bob, for your loyalty.
It's about time!
Great Job keep it up for many many many more years! Love You!
Bob Frickin' Werne!!!!
Yep!
bob has a passion for music that exceeds most people…..certainly equal to mine. He is an incredible asset to my programs over the past 20 years…in fact Bob has been indispensable to whatever I've been able to attain as a weekend programmer. Bob didn't mention it, but he also has a priceless Blue Note lp collection, every lp the iconic label ever put out. He's also an expert on film music, broadway musicals, not to mention an encyclopedic knowledge of jazz. He is also an excellent musician, first-pass sight reader on percussion and mallet instruments (vibes, marimba) and now he's a virtuoso guitar player, playing Baden Powell, Villa Lobos, and Guinga, no small feat. Kudos, Bob, glad you're part of my life and KCRW's history. You rule!
My man! [of the month] [every month]
Well at least on Sunday's!
That be me!
Did any of you know that he is also a tough chess opponent?
right on Bob!!
Bob, we've been together all these years and it's great to finally know 'ya.
….and did anyone know that Bob LOVES chocolate -rum cake???
YAY BOB!
Congratulations BOB !!
Cheers to you, Bob!
Yes, it is about time! Congrats to you Bob-a-loo!
Have faith that through your involvement with KCRW you HAVE been a music teacher. How many have learned, been introduced to and listened to music they wouldn't have- if not for the support and knowledge you have contributed. You were needed by the world not in the halls of BH High but in the basement of Santa Monica College. Cheers to you.
As Abe Lincoln would have said, "volunteer of the score, more like it!"
Congratulations Bob, you have been a huge asset to the station and a major component to mind-blowing Sunday afternoons in Southern California.
Congratulations, Bob! So very well-deserved.
Hey cousin Rob, congrats on doing such a fine job! Classical Guitar – thats great! Thats all, thats it!
Congratulations Robbie,I miss you, you are unforgettable
Congrats Grandpa ! (: <3 love you abuelo
Congrats, I love you mayatito!
Ditto Bobino…you kinda exceed the definition of Volunteer. Always been grateful for your help and enthusiasm over the years
He deserves this! He is a very special person…congrats Robbie
<3
roflmao