The Final Crossover Between Matt Cord and John DeBella
Today, a chapter in my radio career came to a close.
Obviously, throughout my many years in this industry, I have seen a lot of change, whether that be stations, cities, or many co-workers. So this is nothing new, but definitely, something I am going to notice the absence of for some time.
Not only am I going to miss the legendary John DeBella after his incredible 41 years of Philly radio, but I am also going to miss our crossover we would do every day as he was closing out his show and I was beginning my show.
We have done the crossover every single day around 8:55 a.m. since January 2020 — that is over three and a half years!
The crazy part is that we have never rehearsed or had pre-show meetings where we discussed the topic at hand for the day — it was literally just two guys, and producer extraordinaire, Steve Vassalotti, having a conversation about the topic of the day, which could have been any random thing on any random day.
No matter what the conversation was, it was always a lot of fun, and many laughs were shared throughout our three and half years during our crossover.
That can also be said for all 41 years of radio in this city for JDB, I am sure a lot of laughs were shared between all of the people who listened to his show throughout the years.
Plus, he always reminded us to look on the bright side of things to close every show. In fact, every time I hear “Always Look On The Bright Side” by Monty Python, I am going to think it is time for the crossover between John and me, and he is about to say, “And so today’s version of this big, dumb show comes to its timely halt, but Matt Cord is here.”
But today was the last one, which is bittersweet.
But I will always remember him and our time together, and he will hopefully always remember our times together as well. And if he doesn’t, he will always have these pictures to remind him of me, including a picture of me, Kim Deal, and nephew Bryan and Lollapalooza ’93, and a photo of me and Angelo from Fishbone.
Here’s to a great career John, and I am sure you’ll love life after radio, where ever it takes you.
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