Bobby Bones Youngest Ever Inducted Into NRHF

left to right, NRHOF Chairman Kraig Kitchin, John Records Landecker, Joseph Field, Bobby Bones, Tom Barnard, Bill Handel and MBC Founder Bruce Dumont

The 29th Annual National Radio Hall of Fame class of 2017 induction ceremony last week 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.

NRHOF Chairman Kraig Kitchin and Bill Handel

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.”

Joseph Field, President/CEO Entercom David Field

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.”

Chicago broadcast personality Bob Sirott and John Records Landecker

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

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 and friend Andy Roddick, Tennis Pro

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.