Chicago Radio: Icon Frank E. Lee Retires from WXRT — Again

Frank E Lee

Rock radio vet Frank E. Lee spent almost 45 years spinning records at the legendary modern rock station, including hosting shows like "Saturday Morning Flashback."

His last show was Jan. 2.

"I am proud of my work at 'Chicago's Finest Rock'," 72-year-old Lee tells Axios. "I urge Axios readers and everyone who appreciates the unique blend of music and insightful presentation that XRT is famous for to keep rocking with us."

The intrigue: This isn't Lee's first retirement. He ended his full-time gig back in 2016. Yes, but: He returned as short-term fill-in for Terri Hemmert and stayed at the station hosting weekends and filling in for others.

"Frank's foremost talent was to consistently and spontaneously say the most clever, insightful and informative comments as succinctly as anyone I've ever heard," former WXRT program director Norm Winer tells Axios.

Lee started at WXRT in 1980, joining an ensemble of DJs who arguably are the best in Chicago's music radio history.

Terri Hemmert, Marty Lennartz, Lin Brehmer, Tom Marker, Johnny Mars and Lee led the group that became household names for the local rock scene, if nothing else for their longevity.