Dave was the first to turn all four of his radio stations into "full-time country", back in the 50s. This was when most outlets were setting aside a restricted amount of time for our music; back when "block-programming" was the general format. That is, one hour might be "pop" music, one hour might be "rock" and another hour might be "country". Usually, "country" was allotted only a small amount of time on most stations, especially in major markets.

It was referred to as "hillbilly", at the time.

Dave put KDAV in Lubbock, Texas on-the-air in 1953. Next came KPEP in San Angelo, Texas, KZIP in Amarillo and KPIK in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

I was one of Dave's disk jockeys at KDAV in 1959. Waylon Jennings was also a d.j. at KDAV at that time, as was Arlie Duff, the great disk jockey / songwriter ("Y'All Come").

Dave Stone was a great helping hand to the country music pickers and singers when many stations were hesitant in presenting their products. Not only did he air their works, he presented them on stage in all areas where his radio stations were located.

Here is a man who should have been considered for the Country Music Hall-of-Fame for his strong assistance in promoting our "sound".

Thankfully, "Pappy" Dave Stone was inducted to the Country Radio Broadcasters (CRB) Hall-of-Fame in 1999.

Dave was a "believer", a promoter ... and a good friend.

-Bill Mack