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In this episode of History Ignited, we dive deep into the 1950s "Payola" scandal that rocked the airwaves and forever changed the radio industry. We explore how record labels bribed influential DJs—most notably Alan Freed—to play their tracks, the high-stakes Congressional hearings that followed, and the fallout that shifted power from the booth to the boardroom.
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In this episode of History Ignited, we dive deep into the 1950s "Payola" scandal that rocked the airwaves and forever changed the radio industry. We explore how record labels bribed influential DJs—most notably Alan Freed—to play their tracks, the high-stakes Congressional hearings that followed, and the fallout that shifted power from the booth to the boardroom. Turn up the volume as we examine the lyric from Billy Joel’s "We Didn't Start the Fire" and uncover the era when the music wasn't just playing; it was being bought.
Send us Fan Mail
About History Ignited:
History Ignited is the award-winning kids and family history podcast inspired by Billy Joel’s We Didn’t Start the Fire. Each short episode explores the real stories behind the people, events, inventions, and cultural moments that shaped the world from the 1950s through the 1980s. Winner of the 2025 Webby People’s Voice Award for Best Kids & Family Podcast.
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This is an episodic podcast, so you can listen to it in any order, but episode one is a great place to start.
Listen to episode one hereIn this episode of History Ignited, we dive deep into the 1950s "Payola" scandal that rocked the airwaves and forever changed the radio industry. We explore how record labels bribed influential DJs—most notably Alan Freed—to play their tracks, the high-stakes Congressional hearings that followed, and the fallout that shifted power from the booth to the boardroom. Turn up the volume as we examine the lyric from Billy Joel’s "We Didn't Start the Fire" and uncover the era when the music wasn't just playing; it was being bought.
Send us Fan Mail
About History Ignited:
History Ignited is the award-winning kids and family history podcast inspired by Billy Joel’s We Didn’t Start the Fire. Each short episode explores the real stories behind the people, events, inventions, and cultural moments that shaped the world from the 1950s through the 1980s. Winner of the 2025 Webby People’s Voice Award for Best Kids & Family Podcast.
Sound Carrot is your source for Family Podcast Discovery. Verified awesome, 0% boring.
Distraction free website, no flashing banners or adverts to steal your attention.
(Some shows do contain their own ads however).
At first I made this site for my kids, but like any dad I got a little over excited. I hope you find it as useful as they do.
Whether you want to listen to them together in the car, or alone in your room - the content is all safe for younger ears.
