LATEST NEWS
Lon Helton to Host 2024 Induction Ceremony
The Museum of Broadcast Communications announced today that Lon Helton, 2022 Radio Hall of Fame inductee, will be the Master of Ceremonies for the 2024 Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony. The Radio Hall of Fame will recognize its new class of eight inductees at the in-person 2024 Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at the Omni Nashville Hotel in Nashville, TN.
The Museum of Broadcast Communications announced today that Lon Helton, 2022 Radio Hall of Fame inductee, will be the Master of Ceremonies for the 2024 Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony.
The Radio Hall of Fame will recognize its new class of eight inductees at the in-person 2024 Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at the Omni Nashville Hotel in Nashville, TN. Tickets are on sale now.
A portion of ticket purchases is a tax-deductible charitable donation to the Museum of Broadcast Communications.
Lon Helton’s Country radio career began in Galesburg, IL, and took him to top Country stations in Denver, Chicago, and Los Angeles. He has hosted national Country Music radio programs since 1984, most notably Country Countdown USA, since its inception in 1992. He joined Radio & Records as Country Editor in 1983. In 2006 he launched the Country radio and music industry trade publication, Country Aircheck.
A 2006 inductee into the Country Radio Hall of Fame, Helton has been honored as the National Broadcast Personality of the Year by the CMA an unequalled 12 times and by the ACM an unmatched five times. Industry accolades also include the “Angels Among Us” award, the highest honor of St. Jude Country Cares; the Bob Kingsley Living Legend Award; the Country Radio Broadcasters’ Humanitarian Award and the J. William Denny Award for distinguished service to the CMA Board. He has served on the Boards of the Country Music Association (President and Chair, 1999-2002), the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum, the Country Music Foundation, the St. Jude Country Radio Advisory Council, and the Country Music Retirement Community.
Dennis Green, Co-Chair of the Radio Hall of Fame, said: “When you put together a Radio Hall of Fame Induction ceremony, you have to have a host with a passion for radio and the iconic figures that make it great. I can’t think of anyone that understands this better than Lon Helton. The Radio Hall of Fame is excited to have Lon serve as host of the 36th RHOF induction ceremony taking place in Nashville for the first time.”
Tribute Book ads for the 2024 Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony are also available for purchase now. Contact Linde Thurman for more information and to buy a Tribute Book ad for the September 19th event.
Radio Hall of Fame Goes Virtual to Honor the 2020 Class of Inductees
Radio was celebrated across audio channels as the Radio Hall of Fame presented the 2020 Class of Inductees on radio, iHeartRadio, and SiriusXM. From talk to hip hop, celebrity presenters joined the industry to honor some of radio’s most listened to personalities.
Radio was celebrated across audio channels as the Radio Hall of Fame presented the 2020 Class of Inducteeson radio, iHeartRadio, and SiriusXM. From talk to hip hop, celebrity presenters joined the industry to honor some of radio’s most listened to personalities. Due to COVID-19 health and safety concerns, this year’s ceremony was not the usual in-person gala and instead was broadcast and streamed from multiple locations.
Missed the live show?
Listen to the full 2-hour ceremony here.
Elvis Duran, popular morning show personality heard on Z100 in New York and nationally syndicated by Premiere Networks, hosted the virtual gala and started the festivities by pointing out the unique power of radio in the listener’s mind and imagination, and transformed everyone to a virtual ballroom. Nationally syndicated Westwood One radio host and 2003 Radio Hall of Fame inductee Jim Bohannon reprised his annual role as the Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony’s announcer. The Radio Hall of Fame is part of the Museum of Broadcast Communications, located in Chicago, IL since 1991.
During his acceptance speech, Donnie Simpson observed, “The Hall has recognized the right side of the dial, now, a lot of people of color are going in this class, and I want to tell the Hall that I respect that.”
Charlamagne Tha God noted, “Back in 2009, I gave the introduction Hall of Fame speech for Wendy Williams, and almost 11 years later, I am being inducted as part of The Breakfast Club. I read all the legendary names on that Wall at the Broadcast Museum, I felt inspired and said to myself, ‘I’m going to be on that Wall one day.’”
The 2020 Class of Radio Hall of Fame Inductees are:
Mark & Brian - KLOS-FM
- Longstanding Local/Regional (20 years or more)
Cokie Roberts - Political Reporter, NPR
- Longstanding Network/Syndication (20 years or more)
Angie Martinez - WWPR-FM New York City
- Active Local/Regional (10 years or more)
The Breakfast Club - Charlamagne Tha God, Angela Yee, DJ Envy, Premiere Networks, WWPR-FM
- Active Network/Syndication (10 years or more)
Sway Calloway - Sirius XM Shade 45 Channel
- Public Vote Music Format On-Air Personality
Glenn Beck - The Glenn Beck Show, Premiere Networks
- Public Vote Spoken Word On-Air Personality
Donnie Simpson - WMMJ-FM Washington D.C.
- Radio Hall of Fame Nominating Committee inductee
The evening featured an impressive lineup of presenters, including:
Grammy Award-winning Smokey Robinson - Donnie Simpson
TV star and singer Donny Osmond – Mark & Brian
DJ, VJ, and B-Boy King Tech - Sway Calloway
Radio programmer Dom Theodore - Glenn Beck
National recording artist Ray J - The Breakfast Club
Music Producer Salaam Remi - Angie Martinez
The ceremony concluded with an audio journey that highlighted 100 years of radio’s role in listeners’ lives -- from comedy to tragedy, the montage demonstrated how audio informs, entertains, and engages Americans every day.
Sponsors of the 2020 Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony included The Mix Group, Premiere Networks, and The Weiss Agency.
The Radio Hall of Fame is housed at and a project of the Museum of Broadcast Communication, a 501(c)(3) organization.
iHeartMedia’s Elvis Duran to Host 2020 Radio Hall of Fame
Induction Ceremony to be Live Radio Broadcast from Multiple Locations and Streamed Across Audio Platforms on October 29. Smokey Robinson, Donny Osmond, and more to present.
Elvis Duran, popular morning show personality heard on Z100 in New York and nationally syndicated by Premiere Networks, will host the 2020 Radio Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on October 29 from 7 - 9 p.m.
Due to COVID-19 health and safety concerns, this year’s ceremony will be live from multiple locations and broadcast on radio stations across the country, streamed via iHeartRadio, and on the SiriusXM Triumph Channel.
The evening features an impressive lineup of presenters, including:
Grammy Award-winning Smokey Robinson - Donnie Simpson
TV star and singer Donny Osmond – Mark & Brian
DJ, VJ, and B-Boy King Tech - Sway Calloway
Radio programmer Dom Theodore - Glenn Beck
National recording artist Ray J - The Breakfast Club
Music Producer Salaam Remi - Angie Martinez
Kraig Kitchin, chair of the Radio Hall of Fame, noted, “Elvis Duran is one of the most popular radio hosts in the country, and I’m delighted that he will lead us through an exciting live broadcast across multiple audio channels. We’re thrilled to have Smokey Robinson and such notable presenters join us. We’re looking forward to a very special evening.”
Dennis Green, chair of the Radio Hall of Fame Nominating Committee and chief revenue officer for Sun & Fun Media and Key Networks, commented, “Elvis’s humor and energy will make for a very upbeat program. This year marks radio’s 100th anniversary, making it the perfect year for presenting the Radio Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on live radio.”
Millions of listeners consider Elvis Duran the host of the party on his national radio program, Elvis Duran and the Morning Show - the most-listened-to Top 40 morning show in the United States. Ranked #1 across multiple demographics and top markets, Elvis and his talented on-air crew broadcast live from New York’s hit station, Z100, and entertain listeners on nearly 80 stations nationwide with up-to-the-minute pop culture news, celebrity guests, world premiere music exclusives, and fan-favorite segments.
The previously announced 2020 Class of Radio Hall of Fame Inductees are:
Mark & Brian - KLOS-FM - Longstanding Local/Regional (20 years or more)
Cokie Roberts - Political Reporter, NPR - Longstanding Network/Syndication (20 years or more)
Angie Martinez - WWPR-FM New York City - Active Local/Regional (10 years or more)
The Breakfast Club - Charlamagne Tha God, Angela Yee, DJ Envy, Premiere Networks, WWPR-FM - Active Network/Syndication (10 years or more)
Sway Calloway - Sirius XM Shade 45 Channel - Public Vote Music Format On-Air Personality
Glenn Beck - The Glenn Beck Show, Premiere Networks - Public Vote Spoken Word On-Air Personality
Donnie Simpson - WMMJ-FM Washington D.C. - Radio Hall of Fame Nominating Committee inductee
Sponsors of the 2020 Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony include Premiere Networks and The Weiss Agency. Fans and industry professionals can find more information, including photos of the inductees, here.
The Radio Hall of Fame is housed at and a project of the Museum of Broadcast Communication, a 501(c)(3) organization.
31st Annual Radio Hall of Famers Enjoy Memorable Ceremony
On Friday night (November 8, 2019) at Gotham Hall in New York City, Master of Ceremonies and 2018 Radio Hall of Fame inductee Mike Francesa welcomed everyone to the ceremony. Special guests and fellow RHOF inductees Jim Bohannon, Jim Kerr and Kid Kelly were in attendance, with Bohannon serving as announcer of the event.
On Friday night (November 8, 2019) at Gotham Hall in New York City, Master of Ceremonies and 2018 Radio Hall of Fame inductee Mike Francesa welcomed everyone to the ceremony. Special guests and fellow RHOF inductees Jim Bohannon, Jim Kerr and Kid Kelly were in attendance, with Bohannon serving as announcer of the event. Francesa kept the show running smoothly, inserting quips of humor as only he can.
Jim Rome was first to receive his honor. He acknowledged that his best work is ahead of him and that he has “…deep, deep gratitude…I’ve always had people around me who are better than me…who told me what I needed to hear, not what I wanted to hear.”
Next up was Joe Madison, who movingly thanked Sharon “Sherry” Madison, his wife and executive producer. He told a story about when he dies and goes to heaven, “I will ask God, is Sherry here [or will she be]? Because if she’s not, it certainly can’t be heaven.”
Actor Christian Slater then introduced Sean Hollywood Hamilton via video and commented “This man was a huge influence on me…thank you for being a part of my life.” Hamilton first thanked all the other inductees and ultimately said, “I want to dedicate this to my love of my life, my incredible wife Marina.”
Harry Harrison commented, “…I always loved radio…to be a part of it [radio] is very exciting. I appreciate this” and received a standing ovation.
Kevin Ryder and Gene “Bean” Baxter shared sentimental remarks on the heels of Bean’s last day on air on Nov. 7. Ryder said, “I’m here because Bean chose me as his partner…he would’ve been here [RHOF} with whoever his partner was and I’m happy it was me.” Bean then said, “I could’ve been on the radio with anyone but there wouldn’t be magic. The universe brought us together. We were so darn lucky that happened.”
Connie Selleca then introduced her husband John Tesh. She generously thanked all their radio partners and talked about being in a family business. Tesh shared that he was diagnosed with cancer in 2015 but stated he’s cancer free because of his “faith in divine healing.” He went on to express his gratitude for his family and for the honor of being in the Radio Hall of Fame.
Dr. Ruth Westheimer talked about radio being the best medium, “…even better than TV.” And while “…it’s nice to have become a celebrity…I see it as passing on correct information about human sexuality,” she said.
Jimmy Fallon entertained attendees with his comedic and heartfelt introduction of his friend Ryan Seacrest. After much laughter, Seacrest said “we truly do it [radio] because it’s in our blood. We do it because it’s something we can’t live without…I never imagined this room, these legends, this career…”
Photos taken at the ceremony can be viewed in the Radio Hall of Fame gallery.
Brooke & Jubal Recognized with “One to Watch” Award
Premiere Networks’ Brooke (Fox) and Jubal (Fresh), hosts of Brooke & Jubal in the Morning, are this year’s recipients of the Radio Hall of Fame’s “One to Watch” award. It was created last year in honor of radio legend and 2012 RHOF inductee Art Laboe.
Premiere Networks’ Brooke (Fox) and Jubal (Fresh), hosts of Brooke & Jubal in the Morning, are this year’s recipients of the Radio Hall of Fame’s “One to Watch” award. It was created last year in honor of radio legend and 2012 RHOF inductee Art Laboe. Each year, the RHOF nominating committee selects a promising radio personality or team who has demonstrated ratings success, audience growth, and impact on one or more radio stations and their communities.
Brooke and Jubal teamed up in 2011 and within four years, they launched into national syndication. In 2016 they won the National Association of Broadcasters’ Marconi Award for “Large Market Personality of the Year.” Today, they’re #1 in Portland and Seattle and are heard on more than 50 stations, attracting 2.2 million weekly listeners.
“Brooke and Jubal exemplify the inspiration behind this award. While they’ve made Movin’ 92.5, KQMV-FM their home in Seattle, the magic they create on the air continues to win audiences far beyond.”
-Kraig Kitchin, RHOF Chairman
The Radio Hall of Fame’s 31st Annual Induction Ceremony is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 8. Tickets are available here. A portion of the ticket is a tax-deductible charitable donation to the Museum of Broadcast Communications.
The 2019 inductees include:
Sean “Hollywood” Hamilton
Harry Harrison
Kevin Ryder and Gene “Bean” Baxter (Kevin & Bean)
Joe Madison
Jim Rome
Ryan Seacrest
John Tesh
Dr. Ruth Westheimer
The Mix Group is the presenting sponsor of the Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony.
Celebrity Presenters Announced for 31st Annual Induction Ceremony
A star-studded lineup of presenters are slated for the 31st Annual Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony in New York City on Nov. 8. All inductees with their notable presenters along with industry heavyweights will come together to celebrate at Gotham Hall.
A star-studded lineup of presenters are slated for the 31st Annual Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony in New York City on Nov. 8. All inductees with their notable presenters along with industry heavyweights will come together to celebrate at Gotham Hall.
Presenters include:
Jimmy Fallon, host of The Tonight Show.
Christian Slater, award-winning actor and producer.
Kevin Frazier, co-host of Entertainment Tonight.
Andy Schuon, veteran radio and cable television programmer and music industry entrepreneur.
Dave Gorab, vice president/general manager talk programming, SiriusXM.
Frank Osborne, retired general manager of WYNY-FM New York.
Joe McCoy, longtime program director of WCBS-FM.
Connie Sellecca, television actress, producer and radio host.
“This event is traditionally heartfelt and emotionally charged as the talented inductees are honored for accomplishments that most only dream of,” said Radio Hall of Fame Chairman Kraig Kitchin. “But this year will be even more magical with this A-list group of presenters who share a special connection with our inductees.”
The 2019 inductees include:
Sean “Hollywood” Hamilton
Harry Harrison
Kevin Ryder and Gene “Bean” Baxter (Kevin & Bean)
Joe Madison
Jim Rome
Ryan Seacrest
John Tesh
Dr. Ruth Westheimer
Tickets are available here. A portion of the ticket is a tax-deductible charitable donation to the Museum of Broadcast Communications.
The Mix Group is the presenting sponsor of the Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony.
Mike Francesa to Host 2019 Induction Ceremony
Mike Francesa, the longtime PM Drive Host on WFAN AM/FM New York Sports Radio, where he currently hosts Mike’s On, Francesa on the Fan, and 2018 Radio Hall of Fame inductee, will host the 31st Annual Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony and celebration.
Mike Francesa, the longtime PM Drive Host on WFAN AM/FM New York Sports Radio, where he currently hosts Mike’s On, Francesa on the Fan, and 2018 Radio Hall of Fame inductee, will host the 31st Annual Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony and celebration. The black-tie optional event takes place in New York City on Nov. 8 at the iconic Gotham Hall in midtown-Manhattan.
Radio Hall of Fame Chairman Kraig Kitchin says, “Quintessential New Yorker Mike Francesa will bring big energy, humor, and great perspective to this year’s Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony. We’re honored to have him as our master of ceremonies.”
The 2019 inductees include:
Sean “Hollywood” Hamilton
Harry Harrison
Kevin Ryder & Gene “Bean” Baxter (Kevin & Bean)
Joe Madison
Jim Rome
Ryan Seacrest
John Tesh
Dr. Ruth Westheimer
Tickets are now on sale. A portion of ticket purchases is a tax-deductible charitable donation to the Museum of Broadcast Communications.
The Mix Group is the presenting sponsorof the Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony.
About Mike Francesa
Mike Francesa was born and raised in Long Beach, New York. The St. John’s University graduate started working at CBS Sports in 1982 as a researcher. When WFAN-AM debuted in 1987, he joined the lineup and quickly began dominating the New York sports scene. In 1989, he teamed up with Christopher Russo to create Mike and the Mad Dog. Due to the duo’s impact, ESPN chronicled their accomplishments in the 30 for 30documentary series.
In 2008, Francesa ventured alone on WFAN-AM and took the program to even greater heights, earning numerous awards and accolades. He was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2018 and is the only sportscaster to win the National Association of Broadcasters’ Marconi Award for “Large Market Personality of the Year” twice. In 2017, he announced his retirement, only to return to WFAN-AM in 2018.
Throughout his radio career, he has worked in film and television and has lent his support to charities and causes like Tomorrow’s Children’s Fund, St. Francis Hospital, SIDS, World Hunger Year and the Connecticut Sports Foundation.
Announcing the 2019 Class of Inductees
The results are in for the class of 2019 Radio Hall of Fame inductees who will be honored on Nov. 8, in New York City at one of midtown-Manhattan’s landmarks, Gotham Hall.
The results are in for the class of 2019 Radio Hall of Fame inductees who will be honored on Nov. 8, in New York City at one of midtown-Manhattan’s landmarks, Gotham Hall.
The inductees are:
Sean “Hollywood” Hamilton
103.5 KTU New York
Weekly Top 30 Countdown, nationally syndicated by Premiere Networks
Harry Harrison
On-air morning personality, New York’s WMCA-AM, WABC-AM and WCBS-FM
Longstanding Local/Regional, 20+ years
Kevin and Bean (Kevin Ryder, Gene “Bean” Baxter)
The Kevin & Bean Show, KROQ-FM, Los Angeles
Active Local/Regional, 10+ years
Joe Madison
Joe Madison, The Black Eagle, SiriusXM Urban View
Jim Rome
The Jim Rome Show, CBS Sports Radio
(Longstanding Network/Syndication, 20+ years)
Ryan Seacrest
KIIS-FM Los Angeles
On Air with Ryan Seacrest
American Top 40 with Ryan Seacrest, nationally syndicated by Premiere Networks
John Tesh
Intelligence for your Life,nationally syndicated by Compass Media Networks
(Active Network/Syndication, 10+ years)
Dr. Ruth Westheimer
The Dr. Ruth Show, NBC Radio
Sexually Speaking, WYNY-FM New York
“I’m especially proud to welcome these individuals into the Radio Hall of Fame. Their on-air performances and audience relationships are especially remarkable. Each of our 2019 nominees are worthy of induction and I’m appreciative of all those who participated in our process of selecting our Class of 2019, who will join the 238 Radio Hall of Fame inductees already recognized for their great work.”
Kraig Kitchin, Chairman/Radio Hall of Fame
Four inductees were determined by a voting participant panel comprised of nearly 1,000 industry professionals and four inductees were voted on by the Radio Hall of Fame Nominating Committee, two with input from the public. The outcome of the listener vote for a music format and spoken word format on-air personality counted as one vote among the committee votes. The process was administered by Votem and overseen by the certified public accounting firm Miller Kaplan Arase LLP.
Tickets to the induction ceremony are now available here. A portion of ticket purchases is a tax-deductible charitable donation to the Museum of Broadcast Communications.
The Mix Group is the presenting sponsorof the Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony.
30th Annual Radio Hall of Famers Treated to Winter Wonderland
The 30th Annual Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony tested everyone’s resolve as they battled traffic, downed trees, street closures and more, courtesy of New York City’s first snow of the season.
The 30th Annual Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony tested everyone’s resolve as they battled traffic, downed trees, street closures and more, courtesy of New York City’s first snow of the season. Radio Hall of Fame Chairman Kraig T. Kitchin welcomed everyone and announced the rebranding of the organization with a new name, logo, website and more. The adrenaline-charged evening wasn’t short on laughs, tears and standing ovations.
Mark Levin was first to receive his honor, commenting that “Rush Limbaugh took me under his wing, a great decent, very nice man,” and that “Sean Hannity is like a brother to me.” Fred Jacobs acknowledged that he was “the outlier of the night” as the first radio consultant to be inducted. Mike Greenberg and Mike Golic shared their story about how they looked like the number 10 when they stood next to each other. Greenberg commented they now look like the number 11, as Golic is much thinner. Golic also noted, “We didn’t want to be blue, we wanted to be a family show and that’s the route we went.”
Jim Harper introduced Jim Kerr as “The People’s Prince of New York Radio.” Dr. Laura Schlessinger garnered applause when she said before she was in radio, she listened to Cousin Brucie.” She also commented, “For me this is not a job, it’s a mission.” Vice President of Entercom Jimmy DeCastro joked while introducing Jonathon Brandmeier, aka Johnny B, “If this was Chicago, the snow would’ve been plowed, we’d all be in the bar and this would’ve been over two hours ago!” Johnny B added, “Our hotel is six blocks from here, we’re in the car for two hours and my wife of 37 years says, ‘let’s make a run for it’ and we did! That’s a queen!”
Golden Globe and Emmy Award-winning Actor Alan Alda introduced Joan Hamburg saying, “She has the ability to interview anybody with grace and good humor.” She commented, “We are so lucky because no matter what, [radio] is still about community…We make a difference in peoples’ lives.” Mike Francesa commented, “How great is it to stand up here at the same microphone as Alan Alda?! One of my all-time favorite TV stars. That was a big thrill.” Final inductee Kid Kelly, who was introduced by Cousin Brucie (Bruce Morrow) and congratulated via video by Taylor Swift and Dr. Phil, commented, “My aunt gave me the greatest gift, belief in myself.” Addressing the room, “Thank you for supporting a challenged child and making his dreams come true.”
Additionally, Nanci Donnellan, who was unable to attend, was inducted.
Scott Shannon to Host 30th Annual National Radio Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
WCBS-FM 101.1 New York morning personality, United Stations Radio Networks’ nationally syndicated host of Scott Shannon Presents America’s Greatest Hits, and 2006 National Radio Hall of Fame inductee Scott Shannon will host the 30th Annual National Radio Hall of Fame Induction ceremony and celebration in New York City on Nov. 15.
WCBS-FM 101.1 New York morning personality, United Stations Radio Networks’ nationally syndicated host of Scott Shannon Presents America’s Greatest Hits, and 2006 National Radio Hall of Fame inductee Scott Shannon will host the 30th Annual National Radio Hall of Fame Induction ceremony and celebration in New York City on Nov. 15.
This year the event is officially sold-out and marks what will be the most attended ceremony in the history of the National Radio Hall of Fame. Additionally, an exemplary group of presenters joining the festivities include Rush Limbaugh, national radio icon and 1993 National Radio Hall of Fame inductee; Bruce Morrow, aka “Cousin Brucie,” legendary radio personality and 1988 National Radio Hall of Fame inductee; Alan Alda, Golden Globe and Emmy award-winning actor; Jim Nantz, CBS sportscaster and three-time Emmy award winner; Jim Harper, acclaimed morning radio personality; Jimmy DeCastro, Entercom Chicago SVP/market manager; Gabe Hobbs, Gabe Hobbs Media, LLC president/National Radio Hall of Fame Committee member; Greg Moceri, Moceri Media, LLC owner; and Paul Jacobs, Jacobs Media VP/GM.
National Radio Hall of Fame Chairman Kraig T. Kitchin says, “Scott Shannon is the perfect person to host the 30th anniversary of the National Radio Hall of Fame induction in New York City. And with the support and presence of this years’ presenters, and of course our inductees, this is going to be a most memorable evening for all.”
The 2018 inductees include Jonathon Brandmeier, Nanci Donnellan, Mike Francesa, Mike Golic and Mike Greenberg (Mike & Mike), Joan Hamburg, Fred Jacobs, Kid Kelly, Jim Kerr,Mark Levinand Dr. Laura Schlessinger.
The Mix Group is the presenting sponsor of the National Radio Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
Bobby Bones Youngest Ever Inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame
The 29th Annual National Radio Hall of Fame class of 2017 induction ceremony was an emotionally filled evening that wasn’t short on laughs, standing ovations and reflection.
The 29th Annual National Radio Hall of Fame class of 2017 induction ceremony was an emotionally filled evening that wasn’t short on laughs, standing ovations and reflection. Host Dave Ramsey welcomed the sold-out crowd and commented, “We’re sitting in the midst of greatness tonight.” He spoke about the business being both art and science.
Bill Handel was first to receive his honor. In a humorous video tribute, Chairman/CEO iHeartMedia Bob Pitman, Big Boy, Premiere Networks President Julie Talbott, Program Director/KFI-AM 640 Robin Bertolucci and others congratulated Handel. In his acceptance speech, he acknowledged his audience saying “I have one person I’m talking to, just a million times. Radio is truly a magic medium.”
President/CEO of Entercom David Field then introduced his father Joseph Field on the eve of “one of the largest radio mergers in the history of the industry.” David said, “What I most admire about my Dad is who he is as a human being. He’s the model of honesty and decency. Working together with my Dad has been rewarding and fulfilling.” Joseph stated, “I know I wouldn’t be receiving this honor tonight without David’s extraordinary record.”
Ramsey then commented on working with family, “If you don’t kill each other, you get to have a moment like those two just had…tears of pride in David’s eyes for his Dad. We just got to witness that.”
John Records Landecker took the opportunity to acknowledge 1988 inductee and Lone Ranger creator Fran Striker. He was humbled to be in his company, along with all others. He also talked about knowing “radio’s best friend” Art Vuolo, since high school and that Art shared with him on the red carpet that Nov. 2 was the 97th anniversary of radio in the U. S., making the event more special.
The late Bob Sievers’ daughter Caroline accepted the award on his behalf saying, “My father was blessed with the gift of voice, which was unmistakable and always resonated with good will and enthusiasm.” She went on to say his audience, “saw him as their neighborhood friend and confidante. So Daddy thank you. We do remember. We honor you and we’re all so proud of you.”
Tom Barnard said “I care deeply about my family and friends. You all keep me on the straight and narrow by threatening me, which is a good thing!” He went on to say “it’s about working with great people” and that he plans to be around “until I drop dead, I love [radio] so much. Thank you for including me in this club. I’m not even religious, but let me say this…God bless all of you.” He received two standing ovations.
Then NRHOF Chairman Kraig Kitchin surprised Dave Ramsey with a special presentation of his 2015 induction portrait which he couldn’t accept in person due to a commitment he made to speak in front of 4,000 of his fans. Ramsey accepted with surprise and graciousness.
Bobby Bones, the youngest ever inducted into the NRHOF was congratulated via video by Chairman/CEO iHeartMedia Bob Pitman, Luke Bryan, Thomas Rhett, Kelsea Ballerini and more. Bobby commented, “For me it’s about picking the best people,” which he attributed his success to. He thanked his listeners via TuneIn and acknowledged their help in raising more than $10 million for charity over the last three years. He closed with “This is a ‘we’ thing, not a ‘me’ thing.”
Additionally, Sean Hannity and Robin Quivers, who were unable to attend, were inducted.
2017 Induction Ceremony Presenters Announced
Presenters for the 29th Annual National Radio Hall of Fame Induction ceremony are confirmed.
Presenters for the 29th Annual National Radio Hall of Fame Induction ceremony are confirmed.
Those unable to attend the sold-out event on Nov. 2 at the Museum of Broadcast Communications in Chicago will have the opportunity to listen to the commercial free presentation exclusively via TuneIn, this year’s official online streaming partner.
PRESENTER:
David Field, President/CEO of Entercom Communications Corp.
Inductee - Joseph Field
Radio personality Scott Shannon
Inductee - Sean Hannity
Rod Phillips, leader of iHeartCountry
Inductee - Bobby Bones
Scott Jameson, Cumulus VP of Classic Rock
Inductee - Tom Barnard
Chicago broadcast personality Bob Sirott
Inductee - John Records Landecker
Greg Ashlock, President of iHeartMedia, West
Inductee - Bill Handel
Ryan Wrecker, St. Louis Talk Radio Host, will accept the award for the late Bob Sievers.
“We’re pleased to have such talented and accomplished presenters joining us on this special night and happy that those who can’t attend won’t miss a beat thanks to TuneIn.”
National Radio Hall of Fame Chairman, Kraig T. Kitchin
Leading radio imaging and production company The Mix Group is the presenting sponsorof the National Radio Hall of Fame Induction ceremony.
Dave Ramsey Named Induction Ceremony Host
National radio personality, best-selling author, personal money management expert and National Radio Hall of Fame inductee Dave Ramsey will host the 29th Annual National Radio Hall of Fame Induction ceremony and celebration.
National radio personality, best-selling author, personal money management expert and National Radio Hall of Fame inductee Dave Ramsey will host the 29th Annual National Radio Hall of Fame Induction ceremony and celebration. Additionally, a commercial free audio feed of the event will be exclusively provided by TuneIn, this year’s official online streaming partner.
National Radio Hall of Fame Chairman Kraig T. Kitchin says, “We’re honored to have Dave, a world-class speaker who regularly addresses audiences of 10,000 at his live events, serve as our master of ceremonies. And thanks to TuneIn, fans everywhere can catch the on-demand audio of the special evening.”
The black-tie optional event will be held Thursday, November 2 at the Museum of Broadcast Communications in downtown Chicago at 6 p.m. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available at www.radiohof.org. A portion of ticket purchases is a tax deductible charitable donation to the Museum.
The 2017 inductees include Tom Barnard, Bobby Bones, Joseph M. Field, Bill Handel, Sean Hannity, John Records Landecker, Robin Quivers and Robert S. “Bob” Sievers.
Leading radio imaging and production company The Mix Group is the presenting sponsor of the National Radio Hall of Fame Induction ceremony.