Gary Russell (Corry) remembers Bwana Johnny

Bwana And I first worked together at WUBE, Cincinnati where we became lifetime

friends, though we didn't have much in common outside the radio station. I was

married with a family and loved outdoor activities while Bwana was single and

strictly showbiz 24/7. Yet, we had had the same appreciation for humor and fed

off one another, creating bits and characters whenever we got together. We were

kindred souls, often unappreciated and misunderstood while having a hell of a lot

of fun. I could write a book on the crazy outings we had together, whether to a bar,

the supermarket, a fast food joint or just walking down a city sidewalk.  All eyes and

ears were on Bwana, he made sure of that.  Bwana was the ultimate DJ. He loved both

the personality aspect of it, being intelligent, creative and witty with great timing. He

was also a music freak with a great ear. We worked together again at 97DJ and after I

returned to Atlanta to program WQXI, I tried unsuccessfully to hire him every time we

had an opening. We stayed in touch over the years through phone calls which I now realize

were way too damn few and far between. 

 

Sadly, I hear the corny but campily funny strains of  "Happy Trails" as Bwana signs off for the last time.