The July 20 edition of Greasy Tracks paid tribute to Toni Fishman — the electronic visionary and founder of pioneering microphone company TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik — who passed away on July 12 at the age of 55.
The program primarily features live recordings of Max Creek and Zero — Fishman’s two favorite bands. Here’s the archive, while a playlist is here.
Many of the tracks aired were recorded by Fishman, some dating back several decades.
The broadcast marked the 1,400th edition of Greasy Tracks which is in its 30th year at WRTC.
Under Fishman’s leadership, Telefunken USA was incorporated in South Windsor, Conn., in 2001. It became Telefunken Elektroakustik in 2009. It’s best known for producing/designing a wide range of microphones and related high-fidelity recording equipment.
“Toni was a visionary leader and founder, and an integral part of our company from Day 1,” the company said in a statement.
In addition to housing it’s R&D and production at it’s base in South Windsor, the company also has one of the best-sounding performance/recording spaces in the state — the TELEFUNKEN Studios & Soundstage which has been the site for the long-running “Live From The Lab” series.
“Toni was not just the owner, but also a mentor and friend to many,” the company said.
“His vision, passion, and dedication were the driving force behind our success, and his absence is deeply felt by all of us. Despite our loss of Toni, we will carry on. It was Toni’s wish that our company continue to create the finest audio equipment in the world.”
Fishman and T-Funk have been long-time friends and supporters of WRTC.