To mark this achievement, a KWBU celebration of the 500th episode was held in honor of Robert Darden at the Black Gospel Archives at the Baylor University Libraries. Celebrating with Bob and Mary Darden were friends and benefactors of the program’s successful run including the program’s original architect, Pattie Orr.
Bob Darden was presented with a beautiful honorarium plaque commemorating the occasion. Guests were treated to a delicious array of charcuterie prepared by Lois Ferguson and co-hosted by the staff of the Black Gospel Archives, who gave tours of the installation and digitizing workspaces housed in the Garden Level of the Moody Library.
Bob Darden gave a live readout of the 500th episode entitled “People Get Ready” playing the namesake song by the Chambers Brothers on a 45. The audience gave their nods of approval and cheers of congratulations for this achievement as Bob Darden shared the inspired background of his selection of this piece to highlight the 500th episode achievement.
Listeners can enjoy this 500th episode at https://www.kwbu.org/show/shout-black-gospel-music-moments.
Special thanks to all those involved and especially to Bob Darden for his dedication to this important work.