Bob Perkins -

Host / Producer

I have been in the print and broadcast media industry for nearly 60 years: I have been in the company of, and interviewed well-known, world-renowned musicians and others in the entertainment industry. On two invitations to the White House, I met former United States Presidents, Gerald Ford, and Jimmy Carter.

My career credits include: 25 years as a jazz radio host at WRTI radio station; jazz host for 20 years at WHYY; 19 years as news and editorial director at WDAS; 23 years as editorial and jazz columnists at The Philadelphia New Observer. My radio career began in Detroit, Michigan in the early 1960’s.

I am most proud of being honored with a plaque on The Walk of Fame, in downtown Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, noted in the Philadelphia Broadcasters, Hall of Fame, and most recently, in 2022, I was featured on NBC Nightly News.

With my vast print and broadcast media experience, I am now venturing into the podcast space. As program host of ‘Stay Tuned’, I will share my recollections through storytelling about creative individuals in the arts, and music - including events from my own life as well.

If you go back to the roots of jazz, it was all about collective improvisation.

— Henry Threadgill

  • Sheila K. Perkins

    Operations Manager

    Bob has said for many years that the most memorable, and best things about Philadelphia are 'Billy Penn, soft pretzels and cheesesteaks.' I agree, though I would add to this list, 'and BP with the GM.' What a Philadelphia jazz radio host treasure he is! I've always called Bob 'the ever ready bunny,' as nothing stops him. Now he's 'ready' to host 'Stay Tuned,' a podcast I believe his audience is going to thoroughly enjoy. I'm pumped to join Bob and his team in this space!

  • Kim Tucker

    Research Associate

    I don’t remember a time when I wasn’t listening to BP on the radio. But getting the chance to meet him in person at L.G.’s Blue Note was the icing on the cake. Over the years, he became not only a family friend, but family. And I see this time in his life, not as a retirement, but the next chapter for as long as he wants to do this. It’s an honor to be part of his team and I can’t wait to see what you think too. Here’s to BP with the GM!

  • Ryan Gottlieb

    Producer

    Crossing paths at WRTI, BP and I formed a friendship through our shared love of good music, radio (and now podcasts!), and jelly donuts. I am thrilled to have a part in this next phase of BP’s career, and look forward to bringing his stories and interviews to fruition through my experience in both creative and technical production. And I'm having a damn fun time doing it!