He was a native Charlestonian and has been a personality on the Lowcountry entertainment scene for more than 40 years.
Frankie grew up in the days when grown people called partying “bopping.” So, when he started a record hop business in the 70’s, and people hired him to play recorded music at dances, he called himself Frankie the Little Bopper. Over the years, he put on the pounds and became Frankie the Big Bopper. Even as a child, radio had a big influence on his life. “I saw how the community depended on the radio,” says Frankie, who grew up in public housing on Charleston’s East Side. “They listened, not just for music, but to be informed.”
- Attended C.A. Brown High School
Most know him for his signature Saturday Morning Show on Magic 107.3, “The Devistating Juke and Jam Show.”
Frankie “The Big Bopper” was awarded:
- The Drum Major Award from President Barack Obama for his work in radio toward civic justice and his commitment to informing the community to get out and vote
- The MOJA Arts Festival Award – For media and his commitment and dedication to the arts in media.
- Key to the City of Charleston – April 25th Declared Frankie “The Big Bopper” Day
In his words, “often imitated but never duplicated.” He was blessed with the gift of gab and an uncanny ability to touch everyone’s heart through music.
