Aired on Treasure Island Oldies –Mar 08, 2026
In the mid-60s, electronics began shrinking in size and expanding in cultural impact. A major reason for this shift was the widespread adoption of the transistor, which replaced bulky vacuum tubes and allowed devices to become smaller, lighter, and battery-powered.
Although the first commercial transistor radio, the Regency TR-1, appeared in the 50s, it was during the 60s that the technology truly flourished. By the middle of the decade, improvements in manufacturing and falling component costs made transistor radios affordable for teenagers and young adults.
Their portability had a profound cultural impact. Teenagers could now take music with them—to the beach, to school, or while walking around town.
Listeners were no longer limited to enjoying music in their living rooms or bedrooms. This allowed radio stations, featuring rock and pop songs, to rapidly attract huge audiences. Artists like the Beatles and the Beach Boys benefited from this shift, as their songs could be heard virtually anywhere.
In 1965 the impact of the transistor radio was captured through a song released by a then, up-and-coming country artist.
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Our country artist, who was born in 1941, is still performing today but primarily in religious circles with her gospel music.
Her breakout record in 1964, written by the legendary “Still” Bill Anderson, went to #1 on the Billboard Country charts. By the time 1985 was upon us, this award-winning singer/songwriter had 48 charted releases to her credit.
In 1965, her second country release was a double-sided hit with both sides being penned by Bill Anderson as well.
The A side, “Then And Only Then,” went to #4 on the charts. The B side made it to the #25 position and remained on the country charts for 17 weeks.
With a similar vocal style to that of Patsy Cline, here’s Connie Smith and her heartfelt tribute to her “Tiny Blue Transistor Radio,” this week’s Tom Locke moment in time.
YouTube listing of the song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EWCh6S9qofg
This “Moments In Time” story is yet another example of a “golden oldie” or forgotten favorite that earned its place in the evolution of Rock & Roll.
