Every July since 2015, the long, hot summer month of July has been punctuated by the sound of Christmas music thanks to Rob Martinez, WBOI’s resident holiday music expert. His eighth annual July version of “The Nights Before Christmas” will air on Wednesday July 20 from 9 to 11 PM. Even though it sounds similar to his normal December shows, Martinez says this show is uniquely special.
“One of the great things about the Christmas In July show is I don’t pick a single song,” Martinez says. “Since day one, I’ve had the listeners program the show. They choose a favorite, a holiday song that got airplay in their region but not beyond it, or something so far off the grid that our show will be the only place it will be heard.”
In the show’s history, it has gotten requests from all over Northeast Indiana, the United States, as far away as Canada, England, Norway, even China and Vietnam.
“WBOI has made that happen and we’re so grateful for that,” Martinez added. “We’re excited our radio signal can be streamed locally and worldwide. What other station in America or the world broadcasts holiday music deep in the heart of summer?”
Some of the show’s biggest fans can be found in the offices of 89.1 WBOI.
"Like Rob I share a year-round enthusiasm for the spirit of Christmas. I even have decorations still up in my home - no fooling,” WBOI General Manager Terra Brantley said. “The Nights Before Christmas show is a wonderful way to rekindle the joy and fond memories the Yuletide season brings. It helps sustain goodwill in our community as we prepare for the magic of the season."
“Rob’s love, passion, and commitment to Christmas music is unrivaled not just in the Northeast Indiana community, but around the world,” said WBOI Operations Manager Zach Bernard. “His collection and knowledge of the genre is breathtaking. We feel extremely fortunate to be able to bring this show to you on our airwaves, and we hope you’ll join us for this special occasion.”
There are request slots still available for the show. Martinez doesn’t have to resort to playing Trans-Siberian Orchestra or Mannheim Steamroller on a loop.
“The weeks leading up to the show can be a quiet time,” Martinez stated. “We’re confident we won’t have to play that... other stuff.”
Here’s how to submit your requests for the “Christmas in July” show:
1.) Click on the cover photo at the Facebook page of “The Nights Before Christmas”: www.facebook.com/nightsbeforechristmas
2.) You can email Rob: nightsbeforechristmas@gmail.com
3.) At #1 or #2, add this info: Name / Hometown / Artist / Title (first name and hometown will be read on the air)
One request per listener - all requests must be received by Monday, July 18 at 12 midnight EDT.