My Boomer Buddies Podcast: S2 E33. This Episode - The Lawrence Welk Show! So Square It Was Cool! Artwork

My Boomer Buddies Podcast Telling It Like It Was And Is!

I visit weekly with my boomer buddy friends and we cover nostalgic and current topics from our boomer perspectives. We tell it like it was and is!

We recall and discuss popular culture through topics, such as music, television, movies, lifestyles and much more - all through a nostalgic lense. There will also be spotlights on My Boomer Buddies. Each of us will share what it was like growing up as Boomers and how we became who they are now. We all turned out OK ... even though we drank from garden hoses, rode our bikes without helmets, and didn't sit in kiddie car seats. We also talk about the world we live in now. We may sound a bit curmudgeonly, but hey, we have earned that right! After all, we have gone through a lot and, with all that experience, we can now "see around corners"! Come and listen in to us old-timers. You may learn something... At the least, you'll get in some laughs and make some new - old friends!

All Episodes

My Boomer Buddies Podcast Telling It Like It Was And Is!

My Boomer Buddies Podcast: S2 E33. This Episode - The Lawrence Welk Show! So Square It Was Cool!

June 12, 2025 • Rick Reed/Muggs Reed/John Hayes • Season 2 • Episode 33

Summary

In this episode of the Boomer Buddies podcast, host Rick Reed welcomes back John Hayes and his mother, Muggs Reed, to discuss the life and legacy of Lawrence Welk. They explore Welk's humble beginnings, his rise to fame, and the unique aspects of his television show that made it a staple of family entertainment. The conversation touches on personal memories of watching the show, the various performers who graced the stage, and the impact of Welk's vision on the entertainment industry.In this episode, the hosts reflect on the nostalgic elements of the Lawrence Welk Show, exploring its cultural significance and the evolution of music and fashion during its run. They discuss specific performances, including 'One Toke Over the Line' and 'Pipeline' by The Chantays, while also considering the audience's reactions and the show's legacy. The conversation highlights the intersection of entertainment, generational perspectives, and the impact of Lawrence Welk's business decisions on the show's longevity.

Takeaways

Lawrence Welk was born in North Dakota in 1903 to German immigrant parents.
He started his music career at a young age, working on the family farm.
Welk's big break in show business came at the age of 52 when his show aired nationally.
The show was known for its family-friendly content and strict adherence to Welk's vision.
Welk rejected advertising from companies that did not align with his values.
The show featured a variety of performers, including the Lennon Sisters and Myron Floren.
Welk was known for his unique way of speaking English, which became part of his charm.
Many performers on the show went on to have successful careers in music.
The show catered to an older audience, but also included younger talent.
Welk's influence on television and music continues to be felt today.
- Nostalgia plays a significant role in how we perceive past television shows.
- The Lawrence Welk Show featured performances that pushed cultural boundaries.
- Audience fashion reflects the era's trends and societal norms.
- Lawrence Welk's business acumen allowed the show to thrive in syndication.
- The show's content often had a tongue-in-cheek quality that resonated with younger audiences.
- Music from the show, like 'One Toke Over the Line', had deeper meanings that may have been overlooked at the time.
- The evolution of music on the show mirrored changes in popular culture.
- Lawrence Welk's ability to adapt to changing times contributed to his success.
- The show remains a significant part of American television history.
••Personal connections to the show can evoke strong memories and emotions.

Titles

The Legacy of Lawrence Welk
Nostalgia and Music: A Boomer's Perspective

Sound Bites

"He was awesome to the fans."
"He had a strict vision of the show."

••"He was very active in school plays."