Celebrating a Legacy: Mike Leckrone and Doug Moe Share “Moments of Happiness”

Former UW band director and acclaimed author discuss the new book full of decades of memories at Wisconsin on The Todd Allbaugh Show

It’s a heartfelt conversation with two beloved Wisconsin icons. University of Wisconsin Marching Band Director Mike Leckrone along with author and columnist Doug Moe recently joined Todd Allbaugh, host of The Todd Allbaugh Show. The discussion revolves around celebrating a legacy through their new book Moments of Happiness: A Wisconsin Band Story. It captures 50 years of Leckrone’s memories, music, and the lasting traditions of the Badger Band.

It’s all about those moments of happiness. I told my students before big performances, whether it’s the Rose Bowl or Camp Randall—soak in the moment because it’ll carry you through the tougher days.

Former UW Marching Band Director Mike Leckrone

Leckrone led the UW Band from 1969 to 2019. The 88-year-old shared with Allbaugh how the book came to life. 

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LISTEN to the entire interview here:

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“For years, people told me I should write a book about my experiences with the band,” he says. “Finally, I started working on it, and thankfully, Doug came in to help bring it all together. He did the hard work of researching and writing. It was truly a team effort.”

Moe has co-authored several books. But he describes this particular writing process as a privilege.

“Getting two people together to write a book is like getting three people to make a baby. A lot can go wrong,” he jokes. “But working with Mike was a joy. He’s a true storyteller.”

The book intertwines Leckrone’s personal recollections with pivotal moments in UW history. It takes you from Rose Bowl performances to the creation of iconic traditions like the “Fifth Quarter.”

Leckrone shares some of his favorite memories from his career with Allbaugh. One story involves the evolution of the beloved staple, “You’ve Said It All.” The song was originally a Budweiser commercial tune. 

“I fiddled with the arrangement, and soon enough, it became a fan favorite at hockey and football games,” Leckrone explains. “It’s amazing how traditions like that start and become something bigger.”

The legacy extends beyond the music as Leckrone and Moe emphasize the life lessons shared with students over the years. 

“It’s all about those moments of happiness,” Leckrone says. “I told my students before big performances, whether it’s the Rose Bowl or Camp Randall—soak in the moment because it’ll carry you through the tougher days.”

Allbaugh also expresses his deep admiration and personal connection to Leckrone. He recounts how as a young broadcasting student, Leckrone appeared on his local TV show. 

“That was one of the highlights of my life,” Allbaugh says. “Thank you for returning to this show decades later with your co-author Doug Moe.” 

“We never say goodbye at Wisconsin,” Leckrone replies with a smile. “It’s see you real soon.”

NOTE: Leckrone and Moe will be holding a book signing event at Boswell Book Company in Milwaukee on October 29, 2024. They’ll also be sharing more stories to celebrate the book’s release.

WATCH the entire show here: