Introducing the Definitive Collection of WLS Surveys 1960-1990: 9-Book Series

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Introducing the Definitive Collection

WLS AM-FM/Z-95 1980's Music Surveys (Three-Book Series )

Explore the vibrant musical history of Chicago with the launch of a groundbreaking three-book series, "The WLS/Z-95 1980s Music Surveys." This collection features full-size facsimiles of the iconic surveys that defined the city's music scene from 1980 to 1990.

Get the Lowdown!

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The Eighties (1980-1990) Chicago WLS / Z-95 Music Surveys Series Vol. 1, Vol. 2 , Vol. 3.

  This series showcases the vibrant music scene of 1980s Chicago through detailed weekly surveys. It highlights the influence of radio, record sales, and listener preferences. The distribution of WLS Music Surveys in record stores illustrates the dynamic relationship between radio airplay, sales, and audience tastes. Airplay on WLS and inclusion in the survey significantly increased exposure for local artists and helped advance their careers, fostering a sense of community among music fans.

About The Author

  Rich Gardner is a passionate music enthusiast who has been deeply connected to radio and music since the 1960s. His love for music began in childhood when he listened to WLS-AM 890 and WCFL, often accompanying his father in the family car. This early exposure sparked a lifelong hobby of collecting phonographs, records, music surveys, and memorabilia. Rich's connection to the music is profound. He actively pursued his passion by collecting WLS Surveys from the 1970s through the 1980s, compiling his lists from countdown shows, and placing ads in the Chicago Reader during the 1980s to locate older surveys. He went to great lengths to preserve and recreate missing surveys using modern technology, demonstrating his dedication to documenting and sharing the history of Chicago radio and music for others to enjoy.

Rediscover the music that defined a generation. Order your copies today!

  

Each WLS/Z-95 Music Surveys volume (1-9) is available in Kindle, paperback, and hardcover formats. 


Whether you're a longtime fan of Chicago's music scene or a new enthusiast, this collection is essential for anyone interested in the rich history of popular music.


Available from

Independent Book and Record Stores

or

www.amazon.com/author/poptoptunes


Contact Information For more information, datasheets, review copies, or interview requests, please click on  www.poptunes.comor contact: Rich Gardner, rich.gardner@poptoptunes.com

Three Book Series

Volume 1: The WLS Music Surveys Vol 1, 1980-1983

Chicago WLS Music Survey Vol 1. 1980-1983 - The Rock of Chicago

Chicago WLS Music Survey Vol 1. 1980-1983 - The Rock of Chicago

Chicago WLS Music Survey Vol 1. 1980-1983 - The Rock of Chicago

 The first book in the series captures the essence of the early 1980s, featuring the weekly WLS Music Surveys distributed to record stores and eagerly collected by fans. ​ These surveys are more than just lists of popular songs; they are tangible artifacts that reflect the power of radio, the influence of record sales, and the tastes of a

 The first book in the series captures the essence of the early 1980s, featuring the weekly WLS Music Surveys distributed to record stores and eagerly collected by fans. ​ These surveys are more than just lists of popular songs; they are tangible artifacts that reflect the power of radio, the influence of record sales, and the tastes of a generation. ​ This volume provides a unique window into the past, showcasing the dynamic interplay between radio, record sales, and listener preferences. ​ 

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The WLS / Z-95 Music Surveys Vol 2, 1984-1987

Chicago Music Survey Vol 2. 1984-1987 WLS & WYTZ Street Sheets

Chicago WLS Music Survey Vol 1. 1980-1983 - The Rock of Chicago

Chicago WLS Music Survey Vol 1. 1980-1983 - The Rock of Chicago

The second installment explores the mid-1980s, a transformative period for popular music. This volume emphasizes the significant impact of the WLS Music Surveys on the local music scene, including their role in boosting songs and albums to greater popularity and solidifying artists' success. It also analyzes how these surveys cultivated a

The second installment explores the mid-1980s, a transformative period for popular music. This volume emphasizes the significant impact of the WLS Music Surveys on the local music scene, including their role in boosting songs and albums to greater popularity and solidifying artists' success. It also analyzes how these surveys cultivated a sense of community among Chicago music fans, providing a shared experience and connection to the vibrant local music scene.

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The Z-95 Music Surveys Vol 3, 1988-1990

Chicago Z-95 Music Survey 1988-1990 Street Sheets

Chicago WLS Music Survey Vol 1. 1980-1983 - The Rock of Chicago

Chicago Z-95 Music Survey 1988-1990 Street Sheets

The final book in this series transitions to the late 1980s and early 1990s, highlighting the Z-95 Music Surveys. Despite their eventual disappearance, these surveys are important in Chicago's musical history. They provide a valuable insight into the musical tastes and cultural trends of the era, maintaining a tangible connection to the p

The final book in this series transitions to the late 1980s and early 1990s, highlighting the Z-95 Music Surveys. Despite their eventual disappearance, these surveys are important in Chicago's musical history. They provide a valuable insight into the musical tastes and cultural trends of the era, maintaining a tangible connection to the past. Collectors and music enthusiasts will appreciate this volume as a tribute to the enduring appeal of popular music and the influence of radio. t poptoptunes, we have a team of talented writers, editors, and designers who are passionate about books and literature. Our team is dedicated to bringing you the latest news, reviews, and recommendations.

Meet the Team

See data sheets

Whether you're a longtime fan of Chicago's music scene or a new enthusiast, this collection is essential for anyone interested in the rich history of popular music.

Chicago WLS Music Survey The Rock of Chicago 1980-1983 (pdf)

Download

Chicago WLS Music Survey & Streets 1984-1987 (pdf)

Download

Chicago Z-95 Music Survey Street Sheets 1988-1990 (pdf)

Download

Look at THE 1960 AND 1970 SERIES

WLS Silver Dollar Surveys Series The Sixties: 1960-1969

WLS Silver Dollar Surveys Series The Sixties: 1960-1969

WLS Hit Parade Music Surveys Series: The Seventies 1970-1979

WLS Hit Parade Music Surveys Series: The Seventies 1970-1979

The WLS Silver Dollar Surveys Series: The Sixties 1960-1969 is a captivating three-volume series that provides a deep dive into the history and profound cultural impact of the WLS Silver Dollar Survey on Chicago's dynamic music scene throughout the transformative 1960s. 

Get The Skinny!
WLS Hit Parade Music Surveys Series: The Seventies 1970-1979

WLS Hit Parade Music Surveys Series: The Seventies 1970-1979

WLS Hit Parade Music Surveys Series: The Seventies 1970-1979

WLS Hit Parade Music Surveys Series: The Seventies 1970-1979

The WLS Hit Parade Music Surveys Series: The Seventies 1970-1979 immerses you in the golden age of Chicago radio with this meticulously curated three-volume series, presenting full-size facsimile reproductions of WLS Musicradio surveys from the pivotal 1970s.

Check It Out!
Also See...

WXRT Featured Artist Cards 1976-1988

The monthly Featured Artist Card was a printed promotional item carried by leading record stores in the WXRT broadcasting area. These popular cards were a unique way for fans to stay on top of their favorite established artists while learning about new and up-and-coming artists.  

Find out more
Chasing the Top 40 Front Cover
America's Hits (1970-1988) Weekly Countdown

"Chasing the Top 40"

Discover the latest music trends, artist spotlights, and exclusive content at poptoptunes. Join our community of music lovers and explore the sounds that inspire you!

Check it Out!

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