Willis Conover

Willis Clark Conover Jr., born October 18, 1920, in Buffalo, New York, was a notable radio producer known for his work in jazz. He began his career as a radio host at WTBO in Cumberland, Maryland, in 1939 and later served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Conover became the host of Voice of America Jazz Hour in 1955, featuring iconic jazz standards and interviews with prominent artists like Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong. His distinctive voice made his broadcasts accessible globally, reaching audiences in the USSR during the Cold War. Conover produced albums like House of Sounds (1953) and organized concerts at venues including the Newport Jazz Festival and the White House. Conover received a doctorate honoris causa from Berklee College of Music in 1990. He passed away on May 17, 1996, at the age of 75, and is buried at Arlington National Cemetery.

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