Maine’s Blimp is 51: Hear the Amazing Moment WBLM Was Officially Born

Remember the good old days when vinyl and 8-track reigned supreme and fondue was all the rage? It was the 1970s, and Maine was itching for a new sound on the radio waves.

Fortunately, there was a station ready to take off and never land.

Are you feeling ready for some Blimp history?

Here is a recording of the very first broadcast in the history of WBLM.

This recording is from March 1, 1973. The very first morning WBLM existed. The voiceover starts before you hear the voice of Jim Mitchell, one of the true pioneers for the station. He is followed by WBLM's very first DJ to be heard on the station, Steve Hoad.

The first song played was from the legendary band, The Moody Blues.

"The Story in Your Eyes" would be followed by the best rock and roll and more from the era.

Of course, it wasn't the WBLM that you know and love today. Some might remember that originally the station was easy listening during the day. At night is when the party would kick up a notch with the progressive rock of the time.

The studio was originally located in Auburn until 1988, when the "Blimp" would land in downtown Portland. The frequency would switch to 102.9 the following year. This switch would allow WBLM to crank it up to 100,000 watts of full rock and roll.

This clip is a fascinating look at the very beginning of the iconic rock station that I now call home and am more than proud to represent.

On this 51st birthday of the Blimp, I think it's safe to say Steve said it best...

"Welcome to WBLM."