Tucson Radio: Iconic Personality Bobby Rich Retires

Radio icon, Bobby Rich, has announced his retirement.  He leaves a legacy career at 23 radio stations in 14 cities including Los Angeles, Philadelphia, New York, Seattle, San Diego, and Tucson.

Rich's decision to retire comes after over 50-year career in radio, including KDRI The Drive in Tucson.

He has been a prominent figure in the radio industry since the 1970's. 

During his time in the industry, Rich has received numerous accolades for his contributions, including Best Program Director, Best Morning Personality and other awards from Billboard, Radio&Records, and the Arizona Broadcasters Association’s Hall of Fame award. He has also been actively involved in supporting local charities.

"It's been an honor and a privilege to entertain, inform and make listeners happy for over 50 years," said Rich. "I've been blessed to have the opportunity to work with so many talented individuals and make so many great memories. I'm excited to begin the next chapter of my life and see what the future holds."

Rich is a best known for his role as Program Director and Morning Show Host on KFMB-FM San Diego "B-100" (1975–79 and 1984–89) and KMXZ-FM Tucson, Arizona "MIX fm" (1993–2017).

He began his radio career at age 14 in Ephrata, Washington as a DJ. While attending Eastern Washington University in Cheney, Washington he worked as a radio DJ in Spokane, Washington. His first Program Director position was at KSTT Davenport, Iowa. 

In the 70s, he was also morning host at WMYQ Miami "The Q"; Asst. program director/afternoon DJ at WAVZ New Haven, Connecticut "The New Waves"; DJ at KHJ Los Angeles "93 KHJ".

In the 80s, he was Program Director of WXLO New York City "99X"; KHTZ Los Angeles "K-HITS 97"; and WWSH Philadelphia "FM 106". He was a DJ on KFI Los Angeles and Director of Programming Consultation at Drake-Chenault in Canoga Park, California. In 1985 he returned to KFMB-FM where he developed the "Hot AC" format by melding top hits from the Adult Contemporary and the CHR/Top 40 music charts. He created a San Diego version of a "Zoo" show as "The Rich Brothers B Morning Zoo."

In the 90s, Rich was VP/General Manager and morning show host for KMGI/KIXI Seattle "I-107.7" before moving to Tucson in 1992. In 2011, he created BobbysB-100.com, an Internet Radio Station saluting the legendary B-100 in San Diego.