The term "disc jockey" was ostensibly coined by radio gossip commentator Walter Winchell in 1935 to describe the radio work of Martin Block. The phrase first appeared in print in a 1941 …

The use of vinyl records on-air led to the first-ever mention of the term disc jockey in 1935. Radio presenter Walter Winchell used the nickname to describe fellow radio announcer Martin Block.

Oct 25, 2024 · The term “disc jockey” carries a rich history that predates its association with modern club DJs. Coined in 1935 by Walter Winchel l, an American radio commentator, it …

Dec 23, 2025 · Disc jockey programs became the economic base of many radio stations in the United States after World War II. The format generally involves one person, the disc jockey, …

Jul 19, 2023 · While most people today think of the term “disc jockey” in relation to DJs working with two decks, the term is much older. In fact, the term “disc jockey” was originally coined in …

Feb 23, 2025 · Learn the history of disc jockeys, from early radio shows to the rise of digital technology revolutionizing the DJ scene.

Learn about the history of the origins of the DJ, from early pioneers to modern-day superstars. Discover how the role of the DJ has evolved.

In 1935, American radio commentator Walter Winchell used the term "disc jockey" (the combination of disc, referring to the disc records, and jockey, which is an operator of a …

Dec 14, 2025 · So, disc jockey / DJ etymologically refers to a young person playing (discs holding) music. Coined by journalist Walter Winchell in 1935 to describe Martin Block.

Disc jockeys enjoyed the most influence on their listeners in the 1950s and 1960s, when they introduced new music to Americans and made rock and roll the dominant force in youth culture.