New Wave Chronicles: Behind the Scenes with Ellen Goldfarb, Denis McNamara, and Larry "The Duck" Dunn

The Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame Podcast

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Listen to a special Q&A featuring host Tom Needham, director Ellen Goldfarb and iconic WLIR DJs Denis McNamara and Larry "The Duck" Dunn. This event took place during a screening of the acclaimed documentary "New Wave: Dare to Be Different" at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame.
The documentary, directed by Goldfarb, delves into the revolutionary role of Garden City-based radio station WLIR in transforming the 1980s music scene. The Q&A session provided an intimate glimpse into the station's groundbreaking efforts and the personal experiences of those who made it all happen.
WLIR was a trailblazer in the U.S. music industry, being the first to introduce American audiences to now-legendary bands like The Cure, U2, The Smiths, and New Order. Under the guidance of program director Denis McNamara, who joined the station in the mid-1970s, WLIR shifted from album-oriented rock to a daring New Wave format in the 1980s. This bold move not only set the station apart but also played a pivotal role in shaping the national musical landscape.
This podcast episode, recorded at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, also highlighted the station's significant influence on the local club scene.
The special screening event and podcast recording at the Hall of Fame provide a nostalgic yet insightful journey into WLIR's legacy. Ellen Goldfarb, Denis McNamara, and Larry Dunn share anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories that illuminate the station's fearless approach to programming and its enduring impact on music culture.