Frank Zappa and SRL: Flashback to West Coast IBS Convention in 1985

kfjc   10/7/2019  

In 1985, KFJC hosted the Intercollegiate Broadcasting System (IBS) Convention at the newly refurbished St. Claire Hilton in San Jose, California, with keynotes from Frank Zappa and Survival Research Lab’s Matt Heckert. This gathering brought college radio participants and music industry professionals from all over the west coast.

Frank Zappa fell ill and had to give his remarks remotely to the crowd in San Jose. Matt Heckert, from Survival Research Laboratories, gave a well received keynote address to a captive crowd at lunch. Afterwards, showing the intricacies of his homemade flamethrower device, Heckert inadvertently set off the newly installed fire suppression system in the hotel.

Numerous bands performed during the I.B.S. convention for the attendees. KFJC 89.7 F.M. broadcast live from the Saturday night performances of Southern California’s Saccharine Trust, the legendary Camper Van Beethoven, and 28th Day.

This is just one moment from KFJC’s incredible 60 year history.