Living in a 140 Character World

As an ardent Letterman fan from the 12:30 am days, I admit defeat. 

Knowing Leno’s Tonight Show days were numbered, I began watching 6 months ago. 

Confession:  I liked his show better than Letterman. 

Man, I feel like Brett Favre going to the Vikings:  Except I feel traitorous. 

Why the change of allegiance?

Leno’s show was easily consumed in a 140 character world.

1. I could have it on while doing other things.  His bits were easily identified by a sound or sight.  They were simple to understand if only paying half attention.  They were simple to understand – almost to the point of being dumbed-down.
2. I could come and go and easily get right back into the show.  He was constantly re-setting and not straying away from the bit/topic. 
3. He got into bits quickly.  If I decided to give Headlines a few minutes on a Monday night, Jay got right into it so I felt a payoff. 
4. I knew his schedule.  I ended up liking Headlines – even DVR’ing some good ones so my wife and I could watch them together. 

When I was in college – Letterman was a GOD. 

He was must-see.  We followers bragged about watching the show as a status symbol.  Cool professors worked a “top 10 list” into a lesson.  We hung onto his every word (yes, we were impressionable in the mid 80’s!).

I try to give Dave the same lovin’ today … but can’t.  His show just doesn’t hold my attention.

It just drags. 

His tangents – that we used to emulate:  now feel like he’s rambling. 

Bringing Paul into every conversation – just seems to make discussions drag-on.

Seems like Dave can’t introduce a guest, or begin the Top 10 list without digressing. 

Back when Letterman got my undivided attention:  he seemed entertaining.

Sorry Dave:  the masses are constantly multi-tasking in a 140 character world. 

You said you would retire before you would “dumb-down” the show. 

Maybe it’s time. 

Jimmy Kimmel is a great companion when I’m tweeting or researching Hugh – the Polar Bear – Rowland on Wikipedia. 

May Larry “Bud” Melman forgive me. 

RADIO FRIENDS:  I am multi-tasking EVEN more when I have you on …