RUSC's Top 10 Golden Voices of Radio: Celebrating the Ten Most Iconic Radio Personalities of the 1930s, 1940s, and 50s

The 1930s to the 1950s were truly special years, as countless voices brought vibrant stories, suspenseful dramas, and side-splitting comedies into our homes. Now, if you think narrowing down the top ten voices from this glorious era is easy, think again! It’s akin to picking your favorite star in a glittering sky. Everyone has their own cherished memories and beloved voices. Nevertheless, after much debate here at RUSC Towers, here are our top ten iconic radio voices from the Golden Age of Radio.

1. Orson Welles

Kicking off our list is none other than the incomparable Orson Welles. Who could ever forget that earth-shattering Halloween night in 1938 when The War of the Worlds broadcast had a large proportion of their listening audience believing Martians had landed? Welles, with his rich, commanding voice, revolutionized radio drama and set the bar sky-high for storytelling excellence. His later works in film and theater are legendary, but his radio performances remain a beacon of brilliance.

2. Walter Winchell

Move over, Twitter, or X, or whatever it is called these days; Walter Winchell had the scoop long before hashtags were a thing. Known for his rapid-fire delivery and razor-sharp commentary, Winchell’s voice was synonymous with breaking news and juicy gossip. His unique blend of news reporting and entertainment kept listeners on the edge of their seats, making him a pioneer whose legacy continues to influence modern journalism.

3. Fanny Brice

Enter the fabulous Fanny Brice, whose character Baby Snooks brought laughter and warmth to countless households. With her impeccable comic timing and the ability to switch from humor to heartache, Brice’s portrayal on "The Baby Snooks Show" made her a beloved figure in radio. Her voice embodied the spirit of a bygone era, yet her humor remains timeless.

4. Jack Benny

Ah, the legend of Jack Benny! With his impeccable comedic timing, Benny turned self-deprecating humor into an art form. His radio show, "The Jack Benny Program," became a staple, thanks in no small part to Benny's knack for making audiences laugh with his witty banter and unforgettable supporting cast. His seemingly ageless ever-39 persona continues to charm us.

5. Fred Allen

If you loved satirical humor, Fred Allen was your man. His show, The Fred Allen Show, cleverly lampooned the quirks of American life and the burgeoning radio industry. Allen’s sharp wit and dry delivery earned him a spot in the pantheon of radio greats, influencing comedic talents for generations to come.

6. Amos 'n' Andy (Freeman Gosden and Charles Correll)

Freeman Gosden and Charles Correll’s work on "Amos 'n' Andy" was groundbreaking, despite the controversy it later faced. Their ability to create a wide array of characters through voice alone was nothing short of miraculous. They paved the way for situation comedies and left an indelible mark on American entertainment.

7. Edgar Bergen (and Charlie McCarthy)

The magical duo of Edgar Bergen and his wooden alter-ego, Charlie McCarthy, enchanted radio audiences. Bergen’s ventriloquist skills gave life to Charlie, making the sassy dummy a beloved fixture on "The Chase and Sanborn Hour." Their humorous exchanges stood the test of time, transitioning successfully into film and television.

8. Gertrude Berg

Representing the heart and soul of family life on radio, Gertrude Berg's portrayal of Molly Goldberg on "The Goldbergs" was nothing short of heartwarming. Berg’s voice, full of warmth and wisdom, brought a sense of community and belonging to listeners. She not only starred in but also created and wrote the show, leaving an inspiring legacy for female creators in media.

9. Arch Oboler

For those who loved a good fright, Arch Oboler’s Lights Out was a must-listen. Oboler’s deep, chilling voice sent shivers down spines and kept audiences on the edge of their seats. His mastery in crafting eerie tales of horror and suspense left an enduring impact on the genre, influencing future horror storytellers.

10. Bob Hope

Ending our list with a smile is Bob Hope, whose cheerful voice and engaging wit made him a radio favorite. During World War II, his show, "The Bob Hope Show," provided much-needed laughter and entertainment to troops and civilians alike. Hope’s ability to uplift spirits earned him a lasting place in the hearts of Americans.

So many other voices of the golden era contributed immensely to the rich tapestry of old-time radio. Honorable mentions include the dulcet tones of Norman Corwin, the versatile performances of Agnes Moorehead, and let’s not forget the unforgettable Fibber McGee and Molly, played by Jim and Marian Jordan. Each brought unique flavors to the soundscape of their time, solidifying the Golden Age of Radio as an unparalleled epoch.

At the end of the day, everyone has their personal favorites, and lists like these spark delightful debates and cherished memories. The magic of radio lies in its ability to create a personal, intimate connection with each listener, making every voice a unique part of someone’s history. So treasure your own list of radio greats, and let’s keep celebrating these golden voices that once filled our airwaves with joy, suspense, humor, and heart. Cheers to the voices that made us dream!