WLS Silver Dollar surveys 1960's (Three-Book Series )

Vol. 7 chronicles the history and significance of WLS radio surveys, focusing on Chicago's music scene from 1967 to 1969. It includes a complete collection of facsimiles.

The late 1960s in Chicago were marked by social and political change, reflected in the shifts in popular music, including the British Invasion and the rise of various genres. WLS transitioned to a Top 40 format, competing with WCFL, which adopted a similar format. The surveys remain vital to Chicago's radio history, highlighting the competitive AM radio landscape.

The eighth installment continues to explores the significance of these WLS Silver Dollar Survey facsimiles between 1964 and 1966, Chicago music culture, and their impact.

The WLS Silver Dollar Survey is a significant cultural artifact that documents the evolving music scene in Chicago. The survey reported the rise of rock, British Invasion, and soul music during the 1960s. It fostered community and shaped identities as WLS DJs became influential tastemakers. The survey's collectability highlights its historical significance and connection to the transformative music of the decade. WLS's success in the Top 40 format sparked competition, leading to WCFL's switch to the same format in 1965.

 The ninth and last volume chronicles the history and significance of the WLS Silver Dollar Survey's evolution from 1960 to 1963 in Chicago's Top 40 radio.

WLS transitioned from agricultural programming to Top 40 rock and roll in 1960. WLS became a leading Top 40 station in Chicago with a powerful 50,000-watt signal. The first DJs included Mort Crowley, Dick Biondi, and Ron Riley, among others. 

The Silver Dollar Survey, first issued on October 14, 1960, listed the top 40 songs weekly and was integral to the rise of Chicago's Top 40 radio. The survey became a cultural artifact reflecting the tastes of 1960s youth culture and solidified WLS's position as a dominant voice in rock and roll, creating a sense of community. Its presence in local music scenes highlighted the survey's impact on shaping musical tastes.