Feature

Farewell Maas Alan

For 46 years, Alan Magnus has hosted the Good Morning Man Show on one of the largest radio stations in Jamaica; he has never looked back.

After studying at Franklyn Town Elementary, Alan transferred to third form at Kingston College where he met teacher and later friend, Monica Jennings, of whom he has fond memories. He recalls how she would take some extra time out to provide him with lessons to guarantee his success at the institution. Little did she know his success would transcend those walls!

Upon leaving high school, Alan went on to work for a financial organisation but quickly learnt that crunching number was not his cup of tea. From there he moved on to a telecommunications company which he admits he enjoyed.

However, Alan’s fascination with radio as a youth would pave his course. He remembers his experience inside a studio at around age seven. There he was let n on a secret, “Once the red light comes on, whatever you say goes out to the public.” The new found knowledge left him in awe; blown away at the prospect of such a mechanism, he was excited about working in such an environment.

Fast forward to his first day at RJR. It was a fantasy becoming reality. He was now able to project something on the airwaves. Though sorely misguided about radio production, his mentor Marie Garth, remembers how easy her job was with Alan, a naturally talented individual.

His duties entailed the selection of music, reading time signals and, of course, finding interesting topics to discuss with his listeners. As history would have it, his topics drew an audience which led to the success of his programme over the years; due too to his reputation of punctuality and good natured humour.

His colleagues Ralston McKenzie, Don Topping, Derrick Wilks, Dorraine Samuels-Binger and Paula Ann Porter all knew and appreciated him for his relaxed view of life. His “Good Morning Jamaica” show co-host Dorraine and subsequently Paula Ann, his two on air “sweethearts”, fondly remember working with him and tentatively playing his games.

“You could never imagine where the conversation would really go, little by little he would guide you into a room and somehow take from your words meanings you would have never thought of.”
– said Paula Ann Porter.

Gary Allen, CEO of the RJR Gleaner Group used one word to describe working with Alan: E A S Y. Mr. Allen, after mentioning that Alan was consistent, professional and always on time, stated, “We are sad to see him go.”

Roving reporter, Norma Brown-Bell emphatically remarked her most memorable moment working with Alan was every single morning. “He is a consummate broadcaster; never late, never absent. The media industry is all the better for having him.”

Alan Teddy Magnus was awarded the Order of Distinction and while talking to Buzzz Magazine he never once mentioned it. His focus was on the opportunity to spend time with his children, grandchildren and wife, Kerry Magnus, whom he speaks about with great respect and adoration. In fact, he unequivocally attributes his success to her.

To continue reading, purchase Vol.9 #1, 2017 Issue.