For decades, I have had the pleasure of knowing Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot. Our paths have intertwined through various forms of communication such as newspapering, book writing, and radio. Though the world of popular music has often passed me by, I have always held great respect for their work.

Syndication and Online Availability

"Sound Opinions" is syndicated to 100 public radio stations nationwide via PRX and is available online at soundopinions.org. This show has deep roots and has seen different co-hosts and radio homes over the years. Earlier, there were other co-hosts working with Dero (as DeRogatis is known) and Kot. But once they formed a team, when Dero still wrote for the Sun-Times and Kot for the Tribune, things began to click and the show became a hit.

The 500th and 1000th Episodes

While the guys kept writing and DeRogatis taught at Columbia College, the show was celebrated on the occasion of its 500th show. And now, with its 1000th episode on the horizon (airing Jan. 24, 2025), it seemed like a good time to check in. Greg Kot, one of the co-hosts, spoke about how they approach each episode as simply starting a conversation. They share their thoughts and want to hear from the audience. The other secret to their longevity is that they are always most excited about the next musical discovery.

Approach and Inspiration

DeRogatis wrote that he is not one to look back and was surprised to realize that he and Greg have been at "Sound Opinions" for more than 25 years. They approach every episode and topic with the intention of starting a conversation and sharing their enthusiasm with the audience. Greg Kot added that they were inspired to start a talk show about music that mirrored the conversations their mentors Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert had about movies. Taking that give-and-take to radio felt natural to them.

Hosts and Their Work

Co-hosts Greg Kot and Jim DeRogatis are lively hosts, probing, smart, and with a non-confrontational tone. Through the show, the author has learned about new sounds and gained insight into the people who make them. The author has also been drawn back to some of the host's books, such as Kot's terrific biography of Mavis Staples and DeRogatis' chillingly powerful "Soulless: The Case Against R. Kelly."

Independent Promoter's Perspective

Joe Shanahan, as owner of Metro, Smartbar and Gman Tavern, has been an esteemed independent promoter and is the most knowledgeable music man the author knows. He has been with the show since its beginning and watched it develop a depth and historical significance. He finds that he is always learning something new from the show and believes it is in the DNA of the hosts.