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As promised, here is a statement from Bruce Barber of the former "Smith & Barber Morning Show."
There has been much said in the past week and a half about the demise of "Smith and Barber, The Morning Show." I understand your surprise, your anger and your frustration.
Over the past eighteen years, so much has changed on the Morning Show. When Brian and I started out together in 1985, we were two single guys in our twenties. And we both thought like two single guys in our twenties. Suddenly I was married with four kids and was dealing with totally new responsibilities and interests. I wasn't always comfortable with being the "Barber" half of Smith and Barber.
Five years ago, I turned 40. And, like many of you who have also reached that "magic" age, I began to consider where I had been, and where I was going. Also, like many of you, I began to think about a career change and the possibility of starting my own company.
I have gone back and forth with this idea for years. Since last summer, it has been apparent to me that if my dream of starting a new career were ever to become a reality, it would require my full-time attention.
The events of January 30th were as much a surprise to me as they were to Brian and our listeners. I never thought Cox would buy out our contracts before they expired in May. We were offered the chance to do a goodbye show on Friday, January 31, but Brian and I decided against it. It did not seem the best way to end things for our loyal listeners, and I hope we can find a way to do that properly.
I believe that things happen for a reason. I cannot, and should not apologize for wanting to make a change in my life. I know my decision affected a lot of people, most of all, Brian. I hope you can understand that my decision was a difficult one, and one that I did not make lightly. I did not intend to hurt anyone.
To our family of devoted listeners, to Brian, Megan, Billy, Jesse, Marylee, Brett and everyone else we've worked with over the years, I sincerely hope that we can all keep the spirit of Smith and Barber alive. From our first show in March of '85, to our search for the "World's Worst Sweater" on January 30th, 2003, it's been an amazing ride.
I will remember these times with great fondness, and I hope all of you will too.
Best,
Bruce
If you would like to contact Bruce, he can be emailed at: bruce@famarama.com.