IT'S OUR 3rd ANNIVERSARY !
THANK YOU FOR 3 GREAT YEARS !
__________________________________________________________________
SPECIAL NOTE: LARRY ALEXANDER Passed Away Wednesday, August 25, 2010, at the age of 79. Please accept this great story as a remembrance & tribute to Larry as one of the TRUE Pioneers in the Rod & Custom Industry. JK
Legendary East Coast Customizer/Restorer LOU CALASIBETTA , was instrumental in putting the ALEXANDER BROTHERS 50th Anniversary Celebration at Cobo Hall in Detroit together, and he also restored their classic "The Golden Indian". This is Lou's story that explains how it all got put into motion. AND, YOU'LL ALSO SEE some pix and get some great History concerning the Alexander Brothers ground-breaking Concept Custom the DEORA !
____________________________________________________________________
The News Is Definitely Out !
THE LATEST NUMBERS ARE IN, and the results are truly amazing: Over I35,678 VISITORS From All 50 States, and, 111 Different Countries & Territories WorldWide, With Over 8,479,707 HITS... Since We Went On-Line !
I Sincerely Thank You All !! JK
SPECIAL NOTICE: Before you continue scrolling down the page, I want to publicly thank those in the Rod & Custom Publication Industry that have been so generous and supportive of both the "Hall Of Fame Legends" Series WebSite, and, my efforts to put it together and produce it.
So, as to give fair "thanks" to all involved, I'll put them in Alphabetical Order. The list includes: Tim Bernsau (Rod & Custom); Brian Brennan (Street Rodder); Christopher Campbell (Hot Rod); Eddie "T-Bird" Donato (CKD/OSR); Luke Karosi (Kustoms Illustrated); Rob Kinnan (Hot Rod); Alan Mayes (CKD/OSR); Jim Rizzo (Street Rodder); Jerry & DeVona Titus (KKOA Trendsetter). My sincere thanks to each and everyone of you ! And, it goes without saying, a constant thanks to Darryl & Donna Starbird for their help, support, and, friendship. (Links to ALL of the above mags can be found on the "Visit Some Of Our Friends" Page.)
I think we all know that our Industry/Hobby brings us together, not just as friends, but more like an extended "family". And, although this Site went through a "start-up" stage in July,2007 it wasn't officially launched until September 10th of that year. The response WorldWide since that time has been not only heartwarming...it's FANTASTIC !
However, it could not have been done without the help of all the above named individuals, as well as each and every Legend/Hall Of Famer that is listed, been Interviewed, and given so generously of their time, as they understood my concept for the Series, and, the need for documenting their personal histories. PLUS, my thanks for the "word of mouth" that each of you visiting here has helped pass on to others so that they can log onto the Site.
From The Period Of September, 2007 Through This Current Post The Site Has Had Over 135,678 VISITORS AND, 8,479,707 HITS which for a specialized niche Site like this is just excellent. What astounds me even more is the list of 111 Countries & Territories that some of these Visitors have logged on from.
SPECIAL NOTE: TO SEE THE LIST OF COUNTRIES LOGGED-ONTO OUR WEBSITE JUST CLICK-ON HERE !
IN RETROSPECT, that's one of the reasons I named my company The WorldWide Broadcasting Company...the reach of the www is just tremendous. And, to be able to share the stories of these Pioneers of the Industry with those all across the Universe is a feat that would have been unheard of only 10-12 years ago.
I constantly strive to upgrade the entire Site. The "visuals" are tweaked and added-to as necessary, as well as the audio, to showcase each of these Legends with the respect and importance that they deserve. And, again, many thanks for all of your eMails ! I read each one, and thank you for taking the time to send them.
Be watching for more Legends News, Interviews, and, Special Pages to be added soon...for both your listening & viewing enjoyment. With the constant help and support of each of you, the World of Rods & Customs will power through this new Millenium and into the next ! More importantly, the "Legends Of The Hall Of Fame" will continue to be heard all over the World...and their histories and voices will continue to inspire a new generation.
With sincere thanks...JK
_________________________________________________________________________
IT'S HERE ! A BRAND NEW PAGE on the WebSite that Showcases some of the GREATEST BOOKS about the Rod & Custom Industry - and those that helped build it - that are available today !
If you have an R&C Library these are some books that you definitely should add ! If you're just starting a Personal Library, these are a MUST for you to put in it.
SPECIAL FEATURED BOOK OF THE WEEK:
"BARRIS CARS OF THE STARS", by George Barris and David Fetherston. Motorbooks, Pub.
I PERSONALLY REVUE EACH BOOK, and give you my take on it. There are SO many of you out there that have asked me for some suggestions on good reading material during the last few months, and now we've got it for you right here on the Hall Of Fame Legends Series WebSite !
JUST CLICK-ON HERE , AND GO DIRECTLY TO THE"HOT OFF THE PRESS" PAGE ! ENJOY !! JK
___________________________________________________________________________
WHILE YOU'RE HERE: be sure to visit THE LEGENDS VIDEO GALLERY There are now OVER 160 Great Pix ! Cool Cars, Classic Ads that you will probably never see anywhere else, and even some Special Pix from my Personal Archives that I dug out to share with you ! THE LEGENDS VIDEO GALLERY is a virtual "Time Machine" that you can enjoy over and over again as I'm always adding new images ! JK
NOW It's Easier Than Ever To eMail us ! Just click here to eMail us and let us know where you're from, what you drive, and how you like hearing these great Legends and their personal stories.
IT'S SIMPLE: Log-On ANYTIME You Want ! We're On-Line 24/7/365 !! 
___________________________________________________________________________
HOT TOPIX: These Are The Hottest "Legends" Stories On-Line Right Now ! Just "Click" On 'Em To Listen !
THIS IS A SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO THE R&C PIONEER WHO CHANGED MY LIFE
YOU MIGHT NOT READILY KNOW HIS NAME, but DON FERRARA was one of the earliest post-WWII Hot Rodders & Custom Car Builders. He built, raced, and, showed one of the most-Legendary '29 Model A's, and, the '49 Ford Coupe he built was the car that started me on the path that I still follow. Without Don Ferrara's influence in my life, you might not be reading these words today...and the WebSite you're viewing might never have existed.
PLEASE, take a few minutes and read my Very Special Tribute Page to DON FERRARA ...and you'll learn not only about his influence in the early days of the Industry, but also how he and his '49 Ford Custom had such a great impact on my life. AND, how -54 years later- I was finally able to thank him. JK
____________________________________________________________________________
EVERYBODY'S "Fan Favorite" from the legendary coming-of-age/ Crusin'-In-California flick AMERICAN GRAFFITI, Paul LeMat ("John Milner"), is asked to travel to Rod & Custom shows all over the World to meet up with fans of all ages. But Paul is constantly working on other projects when he has time, and recently has starred in a new Sci-Fi / Biker Babe film entitled "CYBORG CONQUEST", and also found time to write a book that's partly autobiographical: "HASTEN DOWN THE WIND".
What's the movie about, where did the title "Hasten Down The Wind" come from, and, what was Paul's other profession at one time ? You'll hear it all in this great Interview and story from one of the BEST all-around professionals you'll ever find: Paul LeMat ! JK
ONE OF THE ELITE MEMBERS chosen for the KKOA Hall Of Fame in 2010: LOU CALASIBETTA. LOU and his crew at the Old Stillwater Garage in Stillwater, New Jersey, have been responsible for some of the most unique Rods & Restorations for almost 4 Decades. Lou's stories have been on the Hall Of Fame Legends Site since the beginning, documenting his great career, BUT in a Special Interview we did shortly after his KKOA HOF Induction, Lou gave me his feelings and thoughts about this prestigious honor.
Lou's a real gentleman, as well as an expert craftsman , and I was glad I was at the KKOA 30th Anniversary Ceremonies to witness the Inductions first hand. JK
(NEW HOF INDUCTEE'S FOR 2010 were BOB METZ (posthumously), MURPHY & THE STRIPER, and, LOU CALASIBETTA.)
VOODOO LARRY is in the vanguard of kustomizers that not only build some great old school rides, but live the lifestyle at the same time. His cars include the Voodoo Kreeper, Voodoo Diablo, and, the knock-out Voodoo Idol. In this first installment of stories from Larry, I wanted to find out what shifted his focus into cars in the beginning, AND into building kustoms as cool as he does. Larry's got a great future ahead in our Industry, and is definetly one of the new breed of builders to watch ! JK
HE'S A HALL OF FAMER who works on his own in his shop located just outside of Austin, Texas, and GARY HOWARD has one of the best reputations in the Industry. In 1994 he began work on Mike Young's '60 Impala Hardtop. Mike's a friend of Jimmie Vaughan's, and the early concept was just "...lower the car & take off the door handles." Well, we all know how that goes !
In this Exclusive Interview, never-before-heard on the HOF Legends Series, Gary explains just what happened, and answers the question of whether or not a car can have a "soul". Listen, learn & enjoy ! JK
FOR THE FIRST TIME on the HOF Legends WebSite, GEORGE BARRIS, tells the full-story of his legendary creation: "THE GOLDEN SAHARA" ! JOHN D'AGOSTINO & I add some info to the story, George reveals the "fishy" side of The Golden Sahara, and also tells how it became a "movie star". This is one story you just can't miss ! PLUS: You can see "The Golden Sahara" in action !! JK
ARTIST AT LARGE, DENNIS McPHAIL, is one of THE BEST ! Art, Tattoos, Sculptures, Kustoms...Dennis puts it all together everyday of his life. SO, when we did this Interview awhile back, I wanted to know about his early years, and what set him onto this lifelong course that he's pursued, and excelled at, for so many years.
DENNIS McPHAIL is one of the nicest and most talented people I know, and whether you know him or not, once you hear this story you'll learn why he's so well-respected in the Industry.
Legendary East Coast Customizer/Restorer LOU CALASIBETTA , was instrumental in putting the ALEXANDER BROTHERS 50th Anniversary Celebration at Cobo Hall in Detroit together, and he also restored their classic "The Golden Indian". This is Lou's story that explains how it all got put into motion....and, you may hear some birds in the back ground !
SPECIAL NOTE: LARRY ALEXANDER Passed Away Wednesday, August 25, 2010, at the age of 79. Please accept this as a remembrance & tribute to Larry as one of the TRUE Pioneers in the Rod & Custom Industry. JK
STEVE FRISBIE (Steve's Auto Restorations, Portland, Oregon) has one of the busiest & best shops in the R&C Industry ! Steve honed his talents by first doing restorations on true, award-winning Classics, and later sequed into Rods, Customs, and, many, many more awards in the process.
IN THIS EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW, done on the day Steve was inducted into Darryl Starbird's National Rod & Custom Hall Of Fame, Steve & I discuss his early career as a restorer, AND, how he co-ordinates the builds done for his customers, with the superb craftsmanship of his crew, to turn out "Drivable Dreams" !
THE LIMITED EDITION "HALL OF FAME LEGENDS" SERIES Custom-Burned, Gold Colored, 1st & 2nd Anniversary CD's are available once again ! We have a small quantity for those who may not have gotten them yet. I can sincerely use your help in keeping the HOFL Series On-Line with a small Donation. For complete lists, info, and , instructions on how to get your personal copy, PLUS a Super Cool, Personally Autographed Freebie, please just go to the Special Page that I've set-up for all of our faithful visitors to the Site. AND, thank you in advance for your help & support. JK
HE'S CONSIDERED ONE OF THE WORLD'S BEST Guitarists' AND he also owns some of the coolest rides on the Planet ! JIMMIE VAUGHAN'S '63 Riviera, built by his friend Gary Howard, was an Award Winning Custom from the day it hit the streets...with an oh-so-subtle chop. In addition, Jimmie's a 4-time Grammy Award Winner: so I wanted to know about both the Riv AND those Grammies ! Jimmie did not disappoint me as you'll hear in this Exclusive Interview done at Darryl Starbird's National Rod & Custom Hall Of Fame. Jimmie knows what he wants in a car, and his insight is remarkable ! JK
HIS PAL'S CALL HIM "FASTBACK FRANK", because NorCal's FRANK LIVINGSTON has probably owned & customized more Chevy Fastback's than anyone. And, there was one very special '49 that was dubbed "The Crown Jewel" which had a very unusual feature to its Howdy Ledbetter-upholstered interior. I wanted to find out how it got that way, and you'll love Frank's reason for doing it, or, maybe you should just ask his wife, Kathy ! Listen & Learn ! Enjoy ! JK
FOR CLOSE TO SIX DECADES DARRYL STARBIRD has crafted some of the rarest, most-acclaimed Rods & Customs that the Industry has ever seen. And, in this Exclusive never-before-heard Interview on the Hall Of Fame Legends Series, I wanted to know where that "drive" to create came from, why Darryl moved from his lifelong home in Kansas to Oklahoma, and, in addition, what his thoughts were on the resurgence of the pioneers of the Rod & Custom Industry.
His thoughts and words on these subjects will truly give you new insight and respect for this Legendary "King Of The Bubble Tops" AND the man behind the machines: Darryl Starbird . (PLUS, from my Personal Archives, get a sneak-peek at Darryl's newest ultra-rare ride, and a never-before-seen pic of the "Starbird" Darryl's yacht ! ) JK
THE DICK DEAN TRIBUTE PAGE: DICK DEAN passed away in July of 2008. Shortly after that, Industry Legends GEORGE BARRIS, JOHN D'AGOSTINO, and, DARRYL STARBIRD, shared their thoughts and insight with me on the importance of this long-time HOF Member. PLUS, you'll hear some of my own personal memories of Dick, on his sense of humour, his talent, creativity and craftsmanship. (NOTE: If you haven't checked-out this Tribute Page yet, please do. I've added some new pix to the page that I hope you'll enjoy. Dick was one of THE best. Period. JK )
INDUSTRY LEGENDS, ELDEN TITUS & GEORGE BARRIS had teamed-up to bring you the ground-breaking "VIBRASONIC ROADSTER" . Sadly, Elden passed away in October of 2008 and work on the Project was halted at that time. Then, at the end of 2009, Elden's widow, Tammy, knew the car had to be completed according to Elden's wishes and was determined to see the car finished. SO, the VIBRASONIC ROADSTER PROJECT is back in action ! And, the build-up in CKD is once again on schedule. (See CKD #40 )
IN THIS LAST INTERVIEW that I did with Elden , a few months before his untimely death, hear his thoughts, ideas & input on the VIBRASONIC, see some rare pix that came to me directly from Elden's Garage, PLUS: Hear George Barris talk about some future projects that he and Elden had planned. AND, see a "Vibrasonic Surprise" directly from my basement ! JK
IT'S ONE OF THE MOST ICONIC kustoms to ever come out of GEORGE BARRIS' shop. It's been seen worldwide in so many magazines through the years that most everyone's lost count. BUT, for the very first time here on the Hall Of Fame Legends WebSite, you can hear the "King Of The Kustomizers" George Barris, tell the story of how the car came together after the devasting shop fire that left it as the lone vehicle that was saved, and, George's personal feelings about the superb restoration done by Roy Brizio's shop...so that the car could make its 50th Anniversary appearance at the 2008 GNRS. This is truly a story ALL R&C fans will want to hear more than once: GEORGE BARRIS and "THE ALA KART STORY" JK
EVER DREAM ABOUT seeing your car in a magazine ? Editor/Writer/Photographer, JERRY WEESNER gives some tips and shares some info on what the Pros look for and tells Jonnie about a real out-in-the-field Event find ! If you missed this story the first time around...here's your chance to catch-up !
One of the most respected & versatile R&C Artists for almost four-decades is M.K.JOHN. Sure he does great art in the Rod & Custom field, BUT, did you know, he's also sought-out by Bike fans from all over the Country to give their rides one of his knock-out jobs ? Be it graphics, flames, pinstripes, or, almost anything you can dream up M.K. can handle it ! BUT, I wanted to know how that all happened to start with...and M.K. gives us all the full story, right here, right now ! (AND FIND OUT ABOUT THAT FISH ! ) JK
NORM GRABOWSKI'S beginnings are alot like the rest of us: he was "bitten by the R&C bug" at a very early age. BUT, Norm's first car wasn't his infamous T-Bucket or anything nearly like it: it was a 1930 Packard Sedan that he drove to High School, until that fateful day, when... We'll I'll let Norm tell you the story of "Sixteen Kids In A Packard Going Downhill...with NO BRAKES !"
"PROJECT RIVIERA" has been a Feature Build in Car Kulture DeLuxe Magazine that has everybody talkin'. Well, we've done our share of "talkin' " with both Brad Masterson, who started building it, and, CKD's ALAN MAYES... the guy that's gonna drive it ! This time it's Alan's turn to fill me in on what it's all about, AND, I tried to get him to spill some of the "secret" Mods that may be involved. PLUS, let's see if I can finally get on the Cover of the Mag ! JK
HE'S ONE OF THE TRUE PIONEERS of the Rod & Custom Industry. His shop was one of the most respected in the business and turned out some of the best "drivers" ever produced, and he's proud to say that most of the those that he built are still on the street today ! On top of that, DICK "MAGOO" MEGUGORAC , is one of the nicest guys you'll ever meet...he's also one of the B-E-S-T story teller's about those early days at the birth of Hot Rodding. SO, listen as Dick talks about his own "early years", as well as the street racing culture that was so much a part of the SoCal Scene at the time ! JK
IT WOULD HAVE TO BE the Longest, Lowest '65 Buick LeSabre ever built ! When he put it together over two-decades ago, LEE PRATT , had created a land-locked Rocket Car that even George Jetson would have been proud to own ! Where the idea came from (there were three sources), and how Lee's gas gauge reacted after each successive change is a story for the ages ! It's the story of "The Long, Long LeSabre" on the HOF Legends. Series. JK
THE ONE THAT BEGAN IT ALL ! Sam Barris' Chopped '49 Merc was the legendary ground-breaker for all of the Chopped Merc's that followed it. And who to better tell the story of how it all came down, than Sam's brother: HOF Legend, GEORGE BARRIS ! Listen as George gives fond memories of his brother, tells how the cars build began, and, talks about the Merc's restoration by Roy Brizio's shop & its current owner, John Mumford. It's a R&C History lesson that you'll have to hear more than once ! JK
He's a Hall Of Fame Award Winning Artist that's equally at home penning Rods, or, Customs. But just how does STEVE STANFORD come up with those cool designs anyway ? That's what I wanted to know, and Steve gave me the straight answers. We also covered how he deals with clients and what he expects from them in order to bring their "Dream Car" to reality. Steve's a cool guy, knows his craft, and, this will give you insight on what to expect the next time you see some of his work transferred to "Real Steel" ! JK
FRITZ SCHENCK ("SPRITZ BY FRITZ") is one of the busiest builders, restorers, painters, maker-of-clones, etc., that is working in the Industry today ! He's also a very nice guy to spend time with, and last summer we got together for an Interview that was both informative and a lot of fun. I think you'll see just what I mean when you listen to this story...and you'll definitely want to listen to it a second time, just to catch what went on in the first 15 seconds !! JK
You've seen his cars at S.E.M.A., the GNRS, Sacramento, and, shows WorldWide. PLUS, magazine coverage in Rod & Custom, Custom Rodder, Traditional Rod & Kulture, Street Rodder, Car Kulture DeLuxe...,you get the picture. Well, at least once a year, HOF Member JOHN D'AGOSTINO & I get together to get the Info on his latest rides. This past July we did it again at the KKOA Event in Salina, and John filled me in on his '40 Cad , and, the "ELVIS II" Eldorado, Biarritz which debuted at the 2010 GNRS. (Plus, a rare European Classic that we'll keep as a surprise !) Listen as John gives me the latest stories...right here, and right now ! JK
The Legendary Hall Of Famer, GENE WINFIELD , talks to about his Origins: From painting his first car in his brothers' garage at the age of 15, to his first shop ( a re-worked chicken house ! ) in the back of his Mother's yard, to International Fame. This is one FANTASTIC personal story that you'll want to hear more than once !!
His shop is world-renowed for turning out Rods, Customs, and, Restorations of the highest-caliber. And, for the first time, LOU CALASIBETTA, owner of The Old Stillwater Garage, shares with me the history of his early years, talks about the building which houses his Garage (originally an 1800's Blacksmith Shop !), and, what the future holds for him and his crew. Lou's one of the nicest guys, and most meticulous builders that you'll ever meet, so listen & enjoy ! JK
RICK NELSON was one of the earliest Superstars of Rock & Roll !
He was one of the earliest "Rockabilly Cats" before anyone coined the term, and I was privileged to Interview him in October of 1981...4 years before he was killed in a tragic plane explosion. Rick was also a "car guy" just like the rest of us, so I felt it was only fitting that I dedicate a Tribute Page to him.
Just click-on here to access this Special Rick NelsonTribute Page ...and you can also hear PART 1 of my Exclusive Interview with Rick , where he talks about his early career, and the song that really started his career. Simply go to the Tribute Page to hear the true story behind the song.
Rick was also one of the first "Teen Idols", had multiple million-selling records, and was a gentleman who gained my overwhelming respect before, during, and, after this Interview. RICK NELSON was truly a class act, and reading the story, along with listening to the Interview are "musts" for all logging onto the HOF Legends Site and valuing an insight into the History Of Rock & Roll from someone who was there from the beginning. Enjoy ! JK
He was born in Arkansas, but ended up in Utah. Then, after a stay in California, BO HUFF cruised back to Utah, and has been there ever since, hammering out some of the neatest Custom Cars you'll ever see. BUT, I wanted to know how that happened. Also, needed to know about his Museum, and what he'd like to work on in the future. I got all the answers...and then some ! Bo's got some great stories...and in this group you'll learn the history of how he got from Point "A" to Point "B" and back again ! JK
For the story of what was planned for the 2010 DETROIT AUTORAMA, listen to the Info my old friend, CHUCK MILLER, gave me at our yearly get-together ! The "Custom Cavalcade", a Special Section for the 70th Anniversary of the "40 Ford", and, Chuck's OWN Special Display ! Chuck was the "2010 Detroit Autorama Builder Of The Year"...and he gave me the full-story, first, in Salina in July, 2009 ! Congrats, Chuck ! JK
Keeping the build of your newest ride a secret is nothing new. But whether the cars design is preset by an Artist OR the cars Builder is a question many do ponder. SO, in this exclusive Interview I did with Industry Legend KEN "POSIES" FENICAL that was one of the questions I brought up. We also covered the photography & story done by Scott Killeen that featured Posie's "Aeroliner Sport", which is based on a '35 Ford Roadster, and has become a part of Scott's "Build Book" Series. Posie is one of THE best in the business. Period. And when you listen to these stories you'll understand why ! JK
DEAN "DINO" ARNOLD was Inducted into Darryl Starbird's National Rod & Custom Hall Of Fame as Builder Of The Year at the 14th Annual Induction Ceremonies on May 16th, 2009. Dino has created the ultimate street-legal Space Ship in the "ThunderFlite". The story of this car is one of tragedy, triumph, faith, and , professionalism. It's an Interview that you'll probably have to hear more than once, and you'll thank me for telling you about it. Dino is a winner across-the-board with this one. JK
NORM GRABOWSKI'S Legendary T-Bucket became a Media Icon in 1958 when it was launched into TV-Land on the Warner Brothers hit show "77 SUNSET STRIP" ! It was recently released in Danbury Mint's "Legacy Motors" catalog, and Norm's "KOOKIE KAR" has become a hot topic all over again. Listen as Norm tells how the "car" became a "star" ! PLUS: YOU'LL HEAR "KOOKIE" !!
Most everyone's familiar with PAUL LeMAT as "John Milner" in the Classic "American Graffiti". But, how many know about some of his other truly remarkable films made with Legends like JASON ROBARDS, and the late FARAH FAWCETT ? Well, they're some of my Personal Favorites and, in this never-before-heard Interview, I wanted to know what Paul's favorites were. If you thought you knew something about Paul LeMat before, what you hear in our conversation will open up a whole new line of respect for this truly gifted actor, decorated Vietnam Vet, and, Winner of TWO Golden Globe Awards ! JK
The "Space Age" was underway ! Sabre Jets flying overhead, Darryl Starbird's "Predicta" flying low-to-the-ground, and GEORGE BARRIS' "XPAK 400" hovering above-land at car shows all over the Country ! When George, John D'Agostino, and I got together in 2009 George brought up the subject of not only the future of kustom cars...but how he put his own "space car" the "XPAK 400" into motion. George also told me how his family runs his business today...and about a car his grandson is building. Enjoy ! JK
HE'S DONE IT AGAIN ! Yep, it took him over 3 years to do it but MARK MORIARITY restored the Legendary Car Craft "Dream Rod" originally built by the late Bill Cushenberry. Mark also has Dave Puhl's "Trendero" under his resto-torch, and we talked about all of those in this one-on-one done at Darryl Starbird's 14th Annual HOF Induction Ceremonies. ADDED ATTRACTION: Lot's of Cool Pix on this page ! JK
FRITZ SCHENCK (Spritz By Fritz), is in the vanguard of the new breed of builders/customizers. You've probably seen THE ROSWELL ROD, and some of his other cars, clones, restorations, bikes, or, paint jobs, featured in Rod & Custom, Street Rodder, Custom Rodder, etc. Well, for the first time here on the HOF Legends Series, Fritz & I sat down recently and talked about his cars - current & future - plus his views on "creating art" through Rolling Sculpture. Fritz is a cool guy with lots of talent. Enjoy ! JK
A COUPLE OF YEARS BACK, my buddy STEVE STANFORD, put together a special story for HOT ROD MAGAZINE. It was Steve's "April Fool" Concept about the re-birth of AMC. Cool Pacers, Hornets, Ambassadors, Javelins, Gremlins...you name it, Steve did it ! In addition, this was also one of the very first stories by Steve that you heard here on the Hall Of Fame Legends WebSite.
WELL, it turned-out to be one of everybody's absolute favorite stories of all-time...and, since many of you are new to this Site and have never heard it to begin with, and hundreds have asked for me to run it again, so here it is: the "man" himself STEVE STANFORD and "THE STORY OF THE NEW AMC" !
He is the Founding Editor of Rod & Custom Magazine, and in the Exclusive Interview, SPENCE MURRAY , tells the Origin Story of how it all began back in 1953 ! Spence is an old friend, and a historian of the highest level. His input to the HOF Legends Site has been invaluable and greatly appreciated. This is definetely one of the MOST IMPORTANT pieces of R & C Audio History you'll ever hear. JK
For over 50 years DARRYL STARBIRD has produced some of the best-attended, Independently-Produced Rod & Custom Shows in theU.S.A.Darryl is not only a superb builder, he created the National Rod & Custom Car Hall Of Fame Museum, and his "Go For The Gold" Features at his Wichita & Tulsa Shows are among the most highly-sought prizes on the show circuit. BUT, this all began by accident...and in this rare, exclusive Interview done at his home, Darryl explained to me how it all started. This one you HAVE to hear ! JK
YOU'VE READ ABOUT IT, you've seen it on the Cover of OSR #36 (Nov. 2009), now hear BO HUFF tell how he put the "Dixie DeLuxe", complete with 2 extra doors, together ! Bo, Alan Mayes, and, I, spent some time together at the 29th Annual KKOA Lead Sled in Salina...and this '49 Merc was a car I really wanted to know about. Bo didn't disappoint me ! This is one Interview you'll enjoy for sure !! JK
JOHN D'AGOSTINO is in almost every Hall Of Fame there is ! The reason ? His fantastic Kustom Cars ! In this one-on-one with John, and the King Of The Kustomizers, George Barris, John explains the process he goes through to design a Winner.
BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE ! George gives his thoughts on John's designs, and what it takes to build a custom the RIGHT way ! No matter what you're building, you need to hear these super-tips on "getting it right" ! JK
One of rhe earliest Interviews when we first brought you this Site was from Paul LeMat who starred as "John Milner" in the Legendary George Lucas film "AMERICAN GRAFFITI". Many newcomers to the Site have never heard it, and a number of you have asked to hear it again. SO, I've re-installed it so that all can enjoy it. Paul is a great guy, with a good sense of humour who's become a friend during these last few years. PLUS, he loves Rods & Customs ! JK
Legendary Guitarist & 4-Time Grammy Award Winner, JIMMIE VAUGHAN, filled me in on playing gigs (One where they ended up playing in real Reindeer Country !), meeting his long-time builder, Gary Howard, and, his gorgeous Gary Howard-built, award winning '51 Chevy. This one ya gotta hear ! JK
He's one of the leading Street Rod Builders of All-Time but, in addition to his life-long love affair with '29 Hi-Boys, a few years back DICK "MAGOO" MEGUGORAC decided he needed to build a Custom. He nailed it right with a first-time Custom...AND, this '49 Merc was the FIRST top he ever chopped. To get the chop right Dick called on another Industry Legend. Who was it ? Listen to this truly GREAT story teller and you'll find out !
ALAN MAYES is not only the Managing Editor of "CKD/OSR", he is also an author with a number of R&C Books to his credit. His latest is a fascinating look into 13 Top Builders from all-over the Country. It's called "Old School Customs", and in our get-together at the 29th Annual Lead Sled Spectacular in Salina, Alan filled me in on putting the book together, and who these Top 13 Builders were. Bo Huff added some cool comments...and a good time was had by all ! Listen to the story; get the book ! JK
THE MANUEL ARTECHE TRIBUTE PAGE One of the Rod & Custom Industries premiere upholsterers for over 3 decades was MANUEL ARTECHE. Sadly, he passed away in October of 1999. One year later I purchased his personal '61 INVICTA Custom, which is now on display at the National Rod & Custom Hall Of Fame Museum. I never got to meet Manuel, but Industry Legends John D'Agostino, and, Jerry Weesner knew him. Listen to their tributes to this superb builder, family man...and, very courageous human being: Manuel Arteche. JK
A few years back, KEN "POSIES" FENICAL , created one of the most unique Art Deco-Styled "Woodies" to ever hit the streets. With the help of artist/designer Thom Taylor this rare machine took the show circuit by storm. POSIES told me the whole story awhile back, and if you missed it before here's your chance to see both the "EXTREMELINER", and, some of the coolest Art Deco Images you've ever laid your eyes on ! Look, Listen & Enjoy...JK
Industry Legend, MIKE "BLACKIE" GEJEIAN, has been a fixture in the R&C World for over 6 Decades ! Blackie has truly done it ALL: from learning to drive at the age of 12, to being a 5 Time NASCAR Champ, to being at every GNRS since 1949,an early AMBR Award Winner...well, the list goes on and on. AND, in this Exclusive Interview, you'll hear Blackie in his own words discussing his Early Years that ignited his passion and love for this unique Industry. These are stories you have to hear more than once ! JK
One of the most creative builders of Rods & Customs is Portland, Oregon's STEVE FRISBIE . Steve was Inducted into Darryl Starbird's National Rod & Custom Hall Of Fame in February of 2008, and he brought along with him Dave Hall's phenominal '55 Chevy Nomad that was turned into the "NEWMAD" ! Listen as Steve tells how the whole project came together, and how Artist/Designer Chris Ito helped make it happen !! JK
He's learned from the best: Barris & Hines. And BRAD MASTERSON is proving himself to be one of best of the up & coming new group of customizers. In this Interview we talked about his working for Bill Hines, and how he REALLY likes working with lead, and, this is one story YOU'LL really like !
A Ridler Award Winner for his knock-out "Fire Truck", and a Certified Hall Of Fame Member, CHUCK MILLER, has history of building cars that goes back to the 50's. When we got together this year at the KKOA Lead Sled in Salina I wanted to ask him about the cars on his "Wish List"...and Chuck came up with a couple of super-cool cars: One from possibly the Future, AND, one that put him in an Issue of "Rodding & Restyling" when he was just out of High School ! PLUS: Do you know where Chuck's "SONIC CUDA" is today ?
Hall Of Fame Member, JOHN D'AGOSTINO, has put together well over 65 cars during the last 4 Decades. In our Exclusive Interview last year (2008), you actually heard about John's latest project BEFORE he even started it ! So it was only fitting that, when John, George Barris, and myself, got together for our yearly meeting in Salina at the KKOA 29th Annual Lead Sled Spectacular, we talk about the finished product: the stunning 1958 Olds Super 88 called "The Egyptian" !
For over 3 Decades BO HUFF has been one of the most ambitious & creative builders in the country. One of his true "works of art" is this special clone he did of Sam Barris' '55 Chevy Convertible. In this rare one-on-one Interview, done at the 29th Annual KKOA Lead Sled Spectacular in Salina, Bo told me the complete story of the car, what George Barris thought about it after it was finished, and what he started with to build it. (HINT: It WASN'T a '55 Chevy Convertible !)
For the first time in our Exclusive Interview sessions "The Bubble Top King", DARRYL STARBIRD and I go one-on-one in a conversation about Darryl's being based in America's Heartland, and, how Darryl's ENTIRE family has joined him in the R&C Industry that they grew up in. PLUS, he reveals just who put his SUPERB autobiographical book "Darryl Starbird: The Bubble Top King" together for him. That in itself is a surprise you've got to hear about ! JK
Two of the R&C Industries premiere HOF Members, GEORGE BARRIS, AND, JOHN D'AGOSTINO, join me in a conversation about their contributions to this WebSite, AND, their feelings on the future of the Industry. Will it be Old School OR New School ? Just click-on and find out !
STEVE STANFORD is one of the R&C Industry's most respected Artists & Designers and I wanted to find out just how he created his unique style, just who his Personal Heroes in the Art World were, and what his feelings were on being Inducted into the National Rod & Custom Hall Of Fame. AND that's exactly what you'll find out in this Exclusive Interview done on the eve of his Induction. If you're a young artist wanting some insight on "how it's done", OR, just want to hear how this true Super Pro does what he does, this is one Interview you REALLY need to hear ! JK
HOF Legend KEN "POSIES" FENICAL, has produced some of the most unique statements the R & C Industry has ever seen. BUT, he also builds some Ultra-Cool Customs for himself. In this Interview we cover a couple of his finest customs, PLUS, a HOF-Fix on a leaky radiator hose in Darryl Starbird's garage, and how he - and two friends - sawed a '47 Chevy in half so it could become the "Fleetliner" !
One of the toughest clubs to gain access to is THE BEATNIKS ! Member-Builder JEFF MYERS gives us a brief History of the Beatniks, how the club was formed, a list of some of its well-known Members (Gary "Chopit" Fioto, Rick Dore, Jack Rudy, Dennis McPhial...among others), AND closes the Interview with some great advice for any up-and-coming Builders listening-in. JK
Trucks are cool ! Custom Rod/Daily Driver Trucks are even cooler !! JOHN KOUW (Crusin' Customs), his sons & crew, finished-up this Super '57 Chevy Pickup just a week before we did our Interview. When I asked him about putting "Drivers" together for customers, John told me how this one was accomplished; we also talked about the future of the Industry. John is one of the nicest builders, and best craftsmen that you'll find anywhere, so listen to his take on where we've been , AND, the fact that maybe the Future is already here !!
JIMMIE VAUGHAN is not only a World Class, Four-Time Grammy Winning guitarist, he also owns some of the coolest cars around ! On the eve of his friend/builder, Gary Howard, being inducted into Darryl Starbird's National Rod & Custom Hall Of Fame, Jimmie and I went one-on-one for his input on Gary, as well as how his Mom helped him get that SUPER HotRod '61 Caddy that Gary put together. This is one story you can't miss: Mother knows best ! JK
A Cover Car & A Feature Car from its earliest days, Paul Savelesky's '55 Bel Air Custom is restored and living again...this time in the garage of Hall Of Famer MARK MORIARITY. Saving the car for future generations to see, Mark's "Dream Car" survives the test of time, and this is the story of how he got it !
The Legendary "BLACKIE" GEJEIAN is the creator of one of the most talked-about Urban Legends in Rod & Custom History ! It concerns the Grand National Roadster Show in 1958, the "Ala Kart", and a mirror Blackie tore out of the Women's Bathroom at the show ! This is the OFFICIAL version as told by the man who did it !! (If you've never heard the story before, this will blow you away ! )
One of the most unusual cars to hit the Show Circuit a number of years back was "THE CADSTER" ! Nor-Cal Legend JOHN D'AGOSTINO had a vision of a Cadillac Concept Car built from a '59 Coupe DeVille. With over 150 body mods, The Cadster was one of the coolest machines ever built ! The story of how it got that way is pretty cool too !!
In the last few years he's achieved International Fame, but at the beginning of his career, Artist/Owner/Tattoo Guru DENNIS McPHAIL, worked with Ed "Big Daddy" Roth ! In this Exclusive Interview, Dennis told me how it went working with one of the most beloved, yet eccentric, stars of the Rod & Custom Industry. As we say: "It was TRULY a learning experience"...and this is one Interview that you'll pick-up on some inside info on this true Legend !
From my archives, I have unearthed the very last portion of what turned out to be my last Interview with the Legendary ELDEN TITUS. In this previously unheard section, Elden talks about a Project that he wanted to do: He wanted to build a Rocket Car ! A true '50's flashback that would definetly set the Rod & Kustom World on its ear ! JK
What do DARRYL STARBIRD'S "Predicta" and this Mercedes SCL600 have in common ? In this Exclusive Interview Darryl explains not only that, BUT what Don "Big Daddy" Garlits told him after Darryl ran The Predicta at 120mph at the 1960 NHRA Nationals ! Click-On and listen right now to hear this very cool story !
Did you ever wonder how those cool mags you read get to you to begin with ? Well, ALAN MAYES , Managing Editor of two of the HOTTEST mags on the stands (Car Kulture DeLuxe/Ol' Skool Rodz) sat down with me to explain how they get from point A to Point B...and every Point in between !
The Rod & Custom Industry continues to expand year-by-year, and on a WorldWide Basis. In this exclusive Round Table Interview, the Legendary GEORGE BARRIS, and Hall Of Famer JOHN D'AGOSTINO, tell how the truly American-Art Form of the Rod & Custom, er, "Kustom", affects owners & builders all over the World ! AND, zero-in on their 2009 trip to one of the Countries that perpetuate this special, unique Art Form: SWEDEN !
Since 1964 KEN "POSIES" FENICAL has put together some of the Rod & Custom Industries most enduring statements. And in this candid Interview, Ken talks about Teamwork, Technology For Today's Streetrodders, and, the men who were the Early Influences in his long & successful career. This is one you can't miss !
From his Legendary-base in Detroit, "Styline Customs", CHUCK MILLER has produced some of the finest, most-unusual, Award Winning Show Cars and Concept Cars on the Planet ! From the Sonic Cuda, the Hurst Olds, and, the Rambler Scrambler, to the MoPar Rapid Transit System, Chuck has done it all. In this rare one-on-one Interview, he talks about some of his all-time favorites !
One of the best of the new "Young Guns" slinging lead & choppin' tops is BRAD MASTERSON. Brad ended up with a FREE Buick Riviera, called Alan Mayes at CKD/OSR, AND, hey, he's now chopin' on the new CKD Project Car ! We found out about it first, and Brad tells us how it all came together.
One of the funniest guys in the Rod & Custom Industry is the one-and-only NORM GRABOWSKI ! This time, Norm talks about how he got into cars to begin with, and gives us the scoop on the early beginnings of, what would become, the Legendary "Kookie Car"! (Good Question: Where did the '52 Cadillac engine in Norm's T-Bucket come from ? Listen closely and you'll find out !)
One of the busiest Artists/Designers in the field of Rods & Customs has to be STEVE STANFORD ! His concepts & designs have been put on the streets time-and-time again, SO this "Steve Stanford Double-Play" Interview covers the SuperCool '63 Impala that began as Stanford-Sketch, AND, a Larry Watson/Steve Stanford/Sam Foose Award Winning '57 Cad Seville !
One of the Rod & Custom Industries most enduring Legends, SPENCE MURRAY , tells his personal story that began with working on Customs & building them, to his becoming the Founding Editor of Rod & Custom Magazine 56 years ago ! THIS EXCLUSIVE, RARE, INTERVIEW IS ONE YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS...IT MAY BE THE MOST INFORMATIVE FIVE MINUTES YOU 'LL HAVE TODAY !
One of the most famous '41 Buick Customs to EVER hit the streets was built by Hall Of Famer LEE PRATT ! In this one-on-one Interview, Lee explains why he built it, and how this "Junkyard Buick" with hydralics became a Street Rodder Legend. PS: It's all in the "timing" ! JK
One of the Rod & Custom Industries Premier Designers, Artists & Pinstripers, M.K. JOHN, has been a Super Pro for over 45 years. It all started with his humble Midwest upbringing in Rolla, Missouri. From that springboard, M.K. has become Internationally-known and discusses his roots - and success - with me in this great one-on-one Interview.
DARRYL STARBIRD has been building World Class Rods & Customs for over 50 years, and in 1995 his dream to build a National Rod & Custom Car Hall Of Fame/Museum came true and the Museum became a reality. In this Exclusive Interview, done at Darryl's house on the HOF property, he talks about how this unique and very special "members only" Museum came together. to honor the true R & C Legends....and what the future holds for it. This is one story you've just gotta hear more than once ! JK
Texas-based Hall Of Famer GARY HOWARD had built some amazing vehicles for his friend, the legendary guitarist/car buff Jimmie Vaughan, but when he pounded out the final version of this 1961 Cadillac Coupe DeVille, it was like nothing anyone had EVER seen before ! It was a fire-breathing, super-charged, racing-slicked Road Warrior...a true Hot Rod to challenge anything on the street OR strip ! Listen as Gary feeds us the info on this fantastic Award Winner.
Historically recognized as the first chopped BelAir Hardtop, GEORGE BARRIS covers the build-up of this unique Chevy, its owner (Larry Ernst), AND, the tragic fire that destroyed the Barris Shop. Also, for those new to the R & C scene: Larry Ernst's Secret !
You've read about the fantastic cars of NorCal Legend & Multi-Hall Of Famer Frank Livingston for over 5 Decades ! NOW hear Frank tell the stories of his first cars, and, the one he ultimately fell in love with and turned into a Multiple Award Winner !!
CUSTOMIZING LEGEND ELDEN TITUS DIED AT HIS HOME IN DERBY, KANSAS, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8th, 2008, AFTER A LONG BATTLE WITH CANCER. ELDEN was a true friend, and one of the most talented, creative, and, courageous human beings I've ever known.
I have set-up a very Special Page for him: ELDEN TITUS TRIBUTE (JUST CLICK-ON AND GO DIRECTLY TO IT.) God Bless You, ELDEN. R.I.P. my friend. JK
Legendary Hall of Famer, Ken "Posies" Fenical, , in this candid Interview, tells Jonnie about his early cars, the origin of the World Famous "Super Slide Springs" over 40 years ago, and some of the cool products that his Company sells...at their store, by mail order, and, on-line !
Widely-known Editor, Writer, Photographer, Jerry Weesner, has "done it all" and has the stories to prove it ! During the course of their Interview, Jerry fills Jonnie in on one his MOST memorable photo shoots...and his meeting a beautful, young, future Mega-Watt Movie Star !!
Paul LeMat (John Milner) from "American Graffiti" was in the same film as Jonnie's old friend the Legendary "Wolfman Jack" But did he actually work with the "Wolfman" ? Paul tells Jonnie the truth ! PLUS: Hear the "Wolfman" himself !!
Jerry Titus, Founder & President, discusses how & why the internationally-known Kustom Kemps Of America Association began 28 years ago. It involved a meeting in Wichita, Kansas, a Cadillac Sombrero hubcap, and, 14 hardcore Car Guys
From 1964-1966 one of the hottest shows on TV was The Munsters ! But did you ever see the "Hot Rod Herman" Episode ? Well, Jonnie accidentally happened on to it the day he was set to Interview George Barris ! George gives the real story on The Munster Koach and The Drag-U-La Car...which he actually drove in this Classic Episode ! (PS: Grandpa Munster makes a cameo appearance especially for our listeners; and, listen for the "wheelie" !!)
One of the Industries long-time leading Rod & Custom Artists, M. K. John, and Jonnie have been friends for years, but it took them a couple of years to have the right time-frame to get this Interview accomplished. As you'll hear, it was well worth the wait !
Back by popular demand, on a Special Page of its own: the return of George Barris explaining the full story of the Origin, Concept & Design of the World Famous TV "BATMOBILE" ! This is a classic, new version of the Interview that I've created, with a Mini-Origin of the "Batman" himself just added, especially for visitors to our "Hall of Fame Legends" WebSite ,and one that you definitely won't want to miss...the kids will love it too !
Darryl Starbird's groundbreaking "PREDICTA" Bubble Top is known World-Wide, BUT what gave Darryl the idea for the concept to begin with ? AND, where did the name "Predicta" come from originally ?
Jerry Titus, Founder & President of the KKOA: Family Values & Kustoms...with a "K" !
Jerry Weesner (Street Rodder/Custom Rodder/'Ol Skool Rodz) & Jonnie King on Crusin' : The Barris Shop, Hollywood, and, St. Louis !
Spence Murray tells how the World Famous "Rod & Custom Dream Truck" was built !
The Historic CKD #15 Buck Owens/Gene Pitney "Death Issue" ! Is Jonnie doomed ??
Boyd Coddington (1944-2008): to view Boyd's Tribute Page please click on his name.
John ('Lil John) Buttera (1941-2008): to view John's Tribute Page please click on his name.
AND, AS ALWAYS, SEND US AN eMail let us know how you like our Site, and tell us "Where In The World" you are ! We appreciate your input, and realize the World of Rods & Customs is truly Universal and covers the World...and, we thank you for taking the time to check-in with us from wherever you live . JK
_________________________________________________________________________________
THIS JUST IN: The wait is over ! "The Hall Of Fame Legends" CD Catalog is now ready and on-line ! Way ahead of schedule, the list is complete and you can see it by clicking-on CATALOG which will take you right there ! REMEMBER: These are the COMPLETE, Exclusive , Interviews with all of the Legends listed...and, they're available right now.
While you're here be sure to visit THE LEGENDS VIDEO GALLERY Over 150 Great Pix, Cool Cars, and even some Special Pix from my personal archives that I dug out to share with you !
__________________________________________________________________________________
By the way, if you're driving through Oklahoma, be sure to stop in and visit the Starbird National Rod & Custom Hall of Fame Museum. Check out Darryl's story on the Origin of the Museum and see some of the FANTASTIC cars on display at: www.darrylstarbird.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
"THE HALL OF FAME LEGENDS" Series is produced with the co- operation and support of Starbird's National Rod & Custom Car Hall of Fame Museum. And, my special thanks to Jerry Titus, and our friends at the Kustom Kemps of America for their help and support: www.kustomkempsofamerica.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
COULD THIS BE THE ONE OF THE RAREST CARS IN THE WORLD: THE FIRST REAL "BUBBLE TOP" CAR ?
)