It's a Blue Monday, Indeed

The legendary Larry Monroe wrapped up a nearly 30 year career Monday night at the close of his long-running program, Blue Monday, which airs on KUT radio.  Monroe himself began the program in 1981.

Monroe spoke to ACS on Monday, just hours ahead of the start of his final show.  He said he'll miss the people he speaks to every week via a microphone and some 'oldies but goodies' blues albums.  "I guess what I'll miss most is doing the programs, because that's an art.  I'll also miss the audience and the feedback that I've gotten that the programs mean a lot to them."

Monroe is proud of his career, and says some of his favorite memories include other Austin legends like Willie Nelson appearing on his show.  "In the early 90's, I booked Willie Nelson in for a live set on Easter.  Willie Nelson and his band played Gospel songs live on the radio for an hour and a half on Easter night."

 For his last guest on Blue Monday, Monroe featured blues musician James Cotton.  The last broadcast is similar to a typical broadcast.  Only this time, he made mention of his 68th birthday.  He told ACS he felt the "timing seems good."

A station spokesperson told ACS Monroe only gave notice of his retirement several weeks ago.  The station is still looking for a replacement for Blue Monday.  As of yet, they do not know what will take its place.  But, judging by the relationship Monroe gained with his listeners over the past three decades, nothing short of a miracle will replace the void left by a man who made it a priority to spend time with listeners over the years.  Said of his departure Monday, "I tried to be there for them.  I worked on holidays because I know that Christmas and other holidays are hard for people, so I tried to keep that constant for my listeners.  If they didn't have anybody else on Christmas, they had me on the radio that night."  Monroe said he believes it made a difference in their lives.

Radio personalities just don't come like that anymore.