Legend Sid Mark Signs Contract Extension With Talk Radio 1210 WPHT
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – Often imitated, but never equaled, Sid Mark is a Philadelphia tradition -- and will continue to be with Talk Radio 1210 WPHT for years to come. Mark has signed a contract extension, the station announced on Saturday.
Mark has been with WPHT for 16 years and been playing Sinatra on the radio for 59 years.
"What Frank Sinatra is to music, Sid Mark is to radio," said David Yadgaroff, Senior Vice President/Market Manager for CBS Radio Philadelphia. "We are so happy to continue the tradition that Sid started 59 years ago."
"My thanks to the management of WPHT, our sponsors and, of course, my listeners for making this possible," Sid Mark commented. "(I) look forward to a big bash for the 60th."
Talk Radio 1210 WPHT will air a very special "Saturday with Sinatra" broadcast hosted by Sid Mark to celebrate the 100th Birthday of Frank Sinatra on Saturday, December 12th from 8pm to 11pm. The program will feature dedications, birthday wishes and content that has never before been aired by Mark.
Mark launched "The Sounds of Sinatra" in Philadelphia 59 years ago. It all began with a call from a listener, who suggested that Mark spin one hour of Frank Sinatra songs. That tradition developed into "Friday with Frank", as well as "Sunday with Sinatra" which presently airs on 1210 WPHT on Sunday's from 9-1PM. Now heard on more than 100 radio stations from coast to coast, "The Sounds of Sinatra," is the only radio program of its kind to have been personally authorized by Frank Sinatra.
Mark and Sinatra developed a personal relationship over 40 years ago. The special friendship Mark shared with Sinatra makes his programming even more special thanks to fascinating insights, personal anecdotes and stories behind the music.
Throughout his outstanding career, Mark has been honored with many awards, including: Billboard Magazine: "Program Director of the Year" 1974; Philadelphia Magazine: "Best Music Program of the Year" 1974; Philadelphia OIC: "Community Service Award" 1983; Philadelphia Music Alliance: "Walk of Fame" 1993; Certificate of Appreciation for Fundraising Extraordinaire: For the Barbara Sinatra Children's Center 1993; Broadcast Pioneers: "Broadcasters Hall of Fame" 2001.
