what is the rare on the air show on wwoz radio
The phrase “Rare on the Air” refers to a classic R&B oldies program on WWOZ, not a separate station-wide initiative or mystery feature.
What “Rare on the Air” Is
On WWOZ, “Rare on the Air” is the nickname associated with the Wednesday evening R&B oldies show, officially listed as “R &B Oldies with Rare On The Air.” The show focuses on vintage New Orleans–flavored sounds rather than current hits.
- It’s an R&B oldies program centered on 1950s–1960s styles.
- The host is known locally as “Rare” and is described by listeners as a “great old school radio host.”
- Fans talk about the show as one of the most fun, personality-driven blocks on WWOZ’s schedule.
“Rare on the Air from 7:00–10:00 on Wednesdays is always fun – he’s a great old school radio host.”
When the Show Airs
According to WWOZ’s own program listing, the show runs mid‑week in a regular evening slot.
- Day: Wednesday.
- Time: 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm (three‑hour block).
- Channel: Main WWOZ stream (often called Stream 1) and 90.7 FM in New Orleans.
The station maintains a two‑week audio archive, so recent episodes of “R&B Oldies with Rare On The Air” can be replayed on demand, even if you miss the live broadcast.
What Music You’ll Hear
The show is built around older, often harder‑to‑find tracks that fit WWOZ’s mission of “bringing New Orleans music to the universe.”
Typical styles mentioned in the show description include:
- 1950s–60s swamp pop
- Early rock’n’roll
- Classic R&B
- Soul and related vintage grooves
Listeners who like the “rare groove” and deep‑cut R&B approach of other WWOZ personalities (such as DJ Soul Sister’s classic R&B/funk sets) tend to gravitate to “Rare on the Air” for a similar crate‑digging feel.
Why It’s Considered “Rare”
The “Rare” in the title works on two levels: it’s the host’s on‑air name, and it reflects the focus on lesser‑known or seldom‑played tracks.
- Emphasis on old singles and deep‑catalog tunes instead of mainstream oldies.
- Fits WWOZ’s broader habit of spotlighting archival and live recordings that don’t get commercial airplay.
- Fans talk about the show in forums as something you seek out specifically for its personality and its unusual selections, not just background music.
Connection to Wider WWOZ Programming
“Rare on the Air” sits within WWOZ’s overall lineup of specialty shows that showcase different slices of New Orleans and roots music.
- WWOZ is a community‑supported station dedicated to jazz, R&B, funk, blues, and other local styles.
- Shows like “New Orleans Calling” feature rare archival recordings and deep musical storytelling; “Rare on the Air” complements that by digging into vintage R&B and swamp pop.
- The station’s archive approach and personality‑driven programs make it a hub for people who want more than mainstream playlists.
Mini FAQ
Is “Rare on the Air” the official name?
- The program guide lists it as “R&B Oldies with Rare On The Air,” so both the R&B Oldies tag and the “Rare on the Air” branding are used.
Can I listen if I’m not in New Orleans?
- Yes. WWOZ streams online 24/7; you can listen live or use the two‑week archive from anywhere.
Is it a talk show or a music show?
- It’s primarily a music show, with the host doing old‑school radio patter, intros, and commentary around the tracks.
TL;DR: On WWOZ, “Rare on the Air” is the Wednesday night R&B oldies show (“R&B Oldies with Rare On The Air”) that plays 1950s–60s swamp pop, rock’n’roll, R&B, and soul from 7–10 pm, hosted by a personality known as “Rare.”
Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.