Robert McCants, better known as Bob Slade, New York Radio legend who was the host of the public affairs show “Open Line” on WBLS 107.5 FM died on March 2019 from kidney disease which he had battling with for a long time.
Slade was on the radio for over 40 years. He mentored on-air talent and journalist and was the champion of those who did not have a voice.
Born in Harlem, New York, Slade attended Queens College with the dream of becoming an actor. He was a member of the YMCA Theater Group in Harlem and the Negro Ensemble. While acting in off-Broadway shows, he developed an interest in radio.
In 1971 Slade joined Long Island radio stations as a news reporter. In 1980 he became the News Director at WRKS FM and later joined Kiss-FM 98.7 in New York City as their news director.
While at Kiss-FM, he developed with co-hosts Bob Pickett, an attorney, and James Mtume, a musician the “Open Line” show, which discussed various urban issues such as politics, education, and police brutality. When the station changed the format in 2012, the show moved to WBLS.
During his career, Slade won in 1997 a Radio Achievement Award for “Soul Beginnings,” and another for the Best Night Time Show.
Slade also won in 1998 an award for “Open Lines” as Best Public Affairs Show, and a Peabody Award for “The Rise and Fall Of The Vee-Jay.”
He also received awards from United Press International, CEBA, and New York’s International Radio Festival.
Written by Barbara Sobel
Sources:
NY Daily News: Radio legend Bob Slade, host of WBLS’ `Open Line,’ dies after longtime kidney ailment
Amsterdam News: Radio legend Bob Slade makes his transition
Radio Facts: Industry Vet Bob Slade has Died
Featured and Top Image Courtesy of Dave Kleinshmidt’s Flickr Page – Creative Common License
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4 Responses
Was my first boss in porfessional radio back in 1978 at WXLO-FM. Was a person who gave me dozens of professional tips on how to navigate the radio landscape.
More importantly we became friends. Most of it centering around our love for Baseball and Pop Music. We even shared Mets season tickets at Shea stadium.
A GREAT man who will be missed!
A true legend, I am going to just miss him. Waking up on Sundays waiting to hear the open line,I have always wanted to be like him. Rest in peace Dear sir
Bobie McCree
Independent Broadcast Media Professional
Very very sad to here that Bob Slade past away. He was very down to earth and friendly always trying to do the right thing ! My condolences to his family and I will try to live up to his great example !!!
RIP
Michael
Rest in Peace. I’m sorry to see you go.