Jeff Hughson describes the launch of 98.5 KZAP on November 8, 1968. The new station, with its aim
at reflecting a new world, began with a tape Jeff produced starting with National Anthem sung by Jose Feliciano, followed by
"Revolution" by The Beatles. Hughson planned the tape with General Manager Ed Fitzgerald.
Hughson kept his relationship with Donahue throughout his time as
KZAP's Music Director from 1968 to 1971. He says that KZAP was influenced by Donahue's freeform programming
at KSAN, but noted that KZAP had more freedom, due to being owned by an small independent company.
Hughson also talks about how he worked with local music shows at The Sound Factory.
Creating a scene with local bands was part of KZAP's mission from the start. Hughson says he was the
first to convince local government to have concerts at William Land Park longer than 90 minutes.
KZAP did a series of local shows involving artists such as Timothy Grass and Mick Martin, who worked
at Tower Records and helped contribute to KZAP's early library. Unfortunately, the series ended up
being shut down by police when a few trouble makers ruined it for the crowd. Overall, KZAP's early years marked a positive new direction
for open-minded young people seeking music that celebrated free expression.
