Title
Clyde W. Price
Subject
Price, Clyde W. "The Syrup Sopper" 1932-2004
Description
In the first photo "the Syrup Sopper," Clyde W. Price, is shown with Miss Wheelchair Alabama.
The second photo shows an advertisement in The Tuscaloosa News on April 25, 1969, in which Price congratulates the city of Tuscaloosa on its 150th anniversary.
Born in Cullman, Alabama in 1932, Clyde Price came to Tuscaloosa in 1953 to attend the University of Alabama, where he graduated in 1955. He was a beloved and legendary figure in Tuscaloosa broadcasting for half a century. Calling himself "The Syrup Sopper" on his early morning country music radio program, his homespun humor and folksy manner made him seem like a best friend to a large and loyal audience of all ages through several generations. Beginning his radio career in Cullman while still in high school, he created his Syrup Sopper program at WNPT in 1952. After service in the US Army Signal Corps from 1955-1957, he returned to Tuscaloosa and resumed his morning show which steadily gained listenership.
In 1961, Clyde acquired an ownership interest in WACT and moved his program to that station. In the following years, he introduced many innovations in local radio, started an FM station, built a unique round-shaped building for studios and offices, and acquired full ownership of the station. After selling WACT, he retired to play golf and write his autobiography, They Called Me Syrup Sopper. Ill health marked the last ten years of his life but never seemed to daunt his spirit and good humor.
Much in demand as an after dinner speaker and master of ceremonies, he circulated widely among his fans and provided leadership to many community organizations; United Way, Civitan Club (president and lieutenant governor), Exchange Club (president), First State Bank (chairman of the board), of Alberta Baptist Church, serving as a deacon and singing choir, and in later years First Baptist Church, where he was a deacon. Clyde's love of country and gospel music led him to form The Golden Tones quartet. He often sang solos at weddings, funerals, and other occasions. He loved fishing, was an accomplished bowler and an avid golfer.
His growing stature in Tuscaloosa radio propelled him to prominence in the broadcast industry. Serving as president of the Alabama Broadcasters Association, he served on the board of directors of the National Association of Broadcasters from 1972-1985.
Mr. Price passed away in 2004.
The second photo shows an advertisement in The Tuscaloosa News on April 25, 1969, in which Price congratulates the city of Tuscaloosa on its 150th anniversary.
Born in Cullman, Alabama in 1932, Clyde Price came to Tuscaloosa in 1953 to attend the University of Alabama, where he graduated in 1955. He was a beloved and legendary figure in Tuscaloosa broadcasting for half a century. Calling himself "The Syrup Sopper" on his early morning country music radio program, his homespun humor and folksy manner made him seem like a best friend to a large and loyal audience of all ages through several generations. Beginning his radio career in Cullman while still in high school, he created his Syrup Sopper program at WNPT in 1952. After service in the US Army Signal Corps from 1955-1957, he returned to Tuscaloosa and resumed his morning show which steadily gained listenership.
In 1961, Clyde acquired an ownership interest in WACT and moved his program to that station. In the following years, he introduced many innovations in local radio, started an FM station, built a unique round-shaped building for studios and offices, and acquired full ownership of the station. After selling WACT, he retired to play golf and write his autobiography, They Called Me Syrup Sopper. Ill health marked the last ten years of his life but never seemed to daunt his spirit and good humor.
Much in demand as an after dinner speaker and master of ceremonies, he circulated widely among his fans and provided leadership to many community organizations; United Way, Civitan Club (president and lieutenant governor), Exchange Club (president), First State Bank (chairman of the board), of Alberta Baptist Church, serving as a deacon and singing choir, and in later years First Baptist Church, where he was a deacon. Clyde's love of country and gospel music led him to form The Golden Tones quartet. He often sang solos at weddings, funerals, and other occasions. He loved fishing, was an accomplished bowler and an avid golfer.
His growing stature in Tuscaloosa radio propelled him to prominence in the broadcast industry. Serving as president of the Alabama Broadcasters Association, he served on the board of directors of the National Association of Broadcasters from 1972-1985.
Mr. Price passed away in 2004.
Source
DCH Regional Medical Center
Contributor
Brenda Harris (Description)
Type
Photograph
Identifier
815
Coverage
Tuscaloosa (AL)
Original Format
Photograph
Physical Dimensions
5 inches x 7 inches