Back when I was working at CKEY, we used to have the exclusive Canadian rights to CBS Radio News. And that's where I first heard the incredible voice and writing of Charles Osgood, who would go on to host the terrific CBS Sunday Morning show on TV. 

This guy was a singular talent with a terrific voice but he was an even better writer. He was amazing, a throwback to a kind of radio no one really does anymore. And he displayed it daily on a magnificent commentary feature called "The Osgood File."

Sad to report that Osgood has passed away at the ripe old age of 91. I'm not sure how many here were familiar with his radio work. But he truly was one of a kind. That kind of original creative writing simply doesn't happen on air anymore. And that's a shame. 
 
"Short words, short sentences, short paragraphs," Osgood said. "There's nothing that can't be improved by making it shorter and better."

And his reports often rhymed, offering piquant commentary on the day's events. He said some stories were just naturals that he knew right away he could make rhymes of in the rushed 60 to 90 minutes he had each morning to compose them. He said, "Some news is good and some is worse, and some news goes from bad to verse." 

Goodbye Charlie. "I'll see you on the radio."

CBS, his long time network, pays tribute to this master craftsman at the link below. 

Charles Osgood, veteran CBS newsman and longtime host of "Sunday Morning," dies at 91