Co-Workers Pay Tribute To Kidd Kraddick

Kidd Kraddick hosted his morning show on KHKS 106.1 KissFM with Kellie Rasberry and Big Al Mack, Jose “J-Si” Chavez and Jenna Owens. They are expected to be Monday to share their feelings on Kraddick’s death.

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Rasberry wrote Sunday on her Facebook page: 

My heart is broken. Nineteen years ago, Kidd Kraddick swept me up from the middle of nowhere and took me on as his on-air wife. It will always be the biggest honor of my life. This man is responsible for every good thing that has ever happened to me. Don't get me wrong -- that man could make me so angry, I could spit. And he LOVED doing that to me. Every single day, I was sure he was going to fire me. And every single day, he was sure I was going to quit. But I could never leave Kidd, and he knew that. While we pushed each other's buttons, we truly shared an unconditional love. 

Kidd Kraddick will always be the love of my life. 

Nineteen years ago, my first words to Kidd were, "You're short." (It's a long story.) But his last words to me - well, ABOUT me, to the photographer -- "Does Kellie think to herself, 'I'm probably going to be taking pictures next to Kidd today so I am going to wear the tallest heels I can find!'" 

Yes, Kidd. I absolutely did that on purpose. And when I see you in Heaven, I'll still be taller. 

I am so grateful for my faith and the knowledge that I will fuss at that man in Heaven again some day. 

I will always love you, Kidd Kraddick.

On KissFM on Sunday, deejay Billy the Kidd invited listeners to call in and share memories.

“It’s been a rough few hours,” he told listeners. “And there’s going to be a lot of rough hours ahead, days and weeks as things kind of sink in.” according to The Dallas Morning News.

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Report: Cumulus To Drop Limbaugh, Hannity

Rush Limbaugh

Cumulus Media, the second largest operator of radio stations in the United States, will be dropping popular conservative talkers Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity at the end of the year, according to Dylan Byers at Politico.

Cumulus has decided that it will not renew its contracts with either host, the source said, a move that would remove the two most highly rated conservative talk personalities from more than 40 Cumulus channels in major markets.

The decision comes after negotiations between Cumulus and Premiere Networks, the division of Clear Channel that distributes Limbaugh and Hannity's shows, broke down due to disagreements over the cost of the distribution rights, the source said. Cumulus is known to drive a hard bargain on costs, and Clear Channel is known to seek top dollar for big names.

Sean Hannity

Cumulus declined to comment: "Cumulus is not in a position to comment about negotiations with talent under contract, no matter what the rumor of the day might be," a spokesperson told Politico.

But in recent weeks, Cumulus has been quietly reaching out to radio talent agents and political insiders about new local and regional station hosts to fill some of the airtime on its stations that will be left vacant by Limbaugh and Hannity, industry sources said. Cumulus is also expected to move some of its existing talent -- which includes Mike Huckabee, Mark Levin, and Michael Savage -- into one of the slots.

Premiere, which did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Sunday night, is expected to move Limbaugh and Hannity to other stations, many owned by its parent company Clear Channel Media+Entertainment, in many of the markets where they are currently signed with Cumulus.

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Boston Radio: The Herald Ready to Launch Internet Station

Jeff Katz

The Boston Herald is poised to take a dramatic step toward a richer experience for its online audience as it launches a new Internet radio station.

The countdown has begun for 6 a.m. next Monday, Aug. 5, when Boston Herald Radio goes live.

Veteran talk show host Jeff Katz will launch a morning drive news talk show that will lead into 12 hours of live broadcasting each weekday.

There will be four shows in all, including “Live from the Newsroom with Jeff Katz,” “Morning Meeting with Jaclyn Cashman and Hillary Chabot,” “The Michael Graham Show” and “Sports Town with Jon 
Meterparel and Jen Royle.”

Throughout the broadcast day — streamed at bostonherald.com, the Herald’s news and sports apps and the TuneIn free app — listeners will be news insiders with updates and breaking news reports straight from the Herald newsroom.

The Line-Up:

• 6:00 am to 9:00 am - Live from the Newsroom with Jeff Katz
• 9:00 am to 12:00 noon - Morning Meeting with Jaclyn Cashman and Hillary Chabot
• 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm – The Michael Graham Show
• 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm – Sports Town with Jon Meterparel and Jen Royle 

Herald editors, reporters, columnists and entertainment critics will provide regular commentary and analysis.

Boston Herald President and Publisher Patrick J. Purcell said, “Internet radio is exploding and it makes sense that the Herald rounds out our multimedia platform with talk radio programming. It’s perfect synergy.

“Boston Herald Radio will be fast-paced, uncensored, entertaining, completely interactive and, most important, very respectful to our listeners.”

All shows will be archived and available 24/7 at bostonherald.com and on all the apps.

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The Herald’s streaming radio station will compete for local online listeners with The Boston Globe’s RadioBDC, which arose from the remnants of the old WFNX in 2012. A big difference is that RadioBDC is primarily music, whereas the Herald  is going with news, sports and talk.

NYC Radio: Two Mikes Exchange Show Shots

Mike Francesa is arrogant. That’s a fact, report sportsgrid.com. 

So you could imagine how that irks his competitors. Enter Michael Kay. The long-time Yankees broadcaster and WEPN 98.7 FM ESPN Radio personality had some pretty competitive words about the big guy over at WFAN660 AM/ 101.9 FM.

Charlotte Radio: Bob & Sheri ReUp With WLNK

Bob & Sheri

Greater Media announced today that longtime morning personalities Bob and Sheri have signed a multi-year deal on WLNK-FM in Charlotte. The duo joined the station back in February of 1992.

“Bob and Sheri are truly one of the best morning shows in the country,” said Greater Media Charlotte Vice President and Market Manager Rick Feinblatt. “We look forward to having them entertain our valued Charlotte listeners for years to come.”

The Bob & Sheri Show is currently heard on 42 stations across the country. 

Their show is described as hilarious and touching with a deep connection to their passionate listeners. In addition, the duo recently announced the launch of The Bob & Sheri Show as the new morning show on the AC Programming Format on the American Forces Network.  The popular morning show, with hosts Bob Lacey and Sheri Lynch, is carried live daily on AFN to members of the U.S. Military serving abroad and their families.  Joe Radio on AFN carries the programming to 177 countries and on all U.S. ships at sea (approximately 150).

Hubbard: Radio's Quiet Powerhouse From Minnesota

Ginny Morris

The first thing to know about Ginny Morris is that she’s a Hubbard, which means she’s no pushover, according to Neil Justin at startribune.com.

The Hubbards, after all, are Midwest broadcast pioneers who built a lucrative empire that includes KSTP radio and TV and cable’s Reelz channel.

A Minnesota radio powerhouse, she is unrattled by the $85.5 million purchase this month of 10 stations — her second major buy in two years — at a time when some believe radio is as antiquated as the telegraph. She’s unfazed by being a female boss in an industry still run mainly by men. She’s not intimidated by the news that, in September, she’ll receive the National Radio Award from the NAB.

If there’s one crack in the armor, it’s the story of how the CEO of Hubbard Radio almost lost her way on the path to forging one of the top 10 chains in the business. It’s the day in 1988 when she was fired.

By her father.

Morris, 50, didn’t intend to join the family business. As a teenager, she was content being a hostess at a Mr. Steak restaurant.

But in the summer of 1982, right after her sophomore year of college, her dad, Stanley S. Hubbard, pushed her to take an internship in KSTP-TV’s promotional unit. If you don’t like it, he said, I’ll get off your back.

She loved it.

Morris ended up working full time at the station. By 1985, she was manager of the promotions department.

Then Dad came to her with some new advice: Get out.

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Atlanta Radio: Frank Ski Owned Bistro Sued

A restaurant and lounge owned by longtime Atlanta radio personality Frank Ski is being sued in Fulton State Court by a family claiming a relative fell at the restaurant and later died from her injuries.

According to ajc.com, the wrongful death lawsuit was filed this week by Gaye Elizabeth Wilson, administrator of the estate of Joy Wilson.

The lawsuit alleges that Joy Wilson was at Frank Ski’s Restaurant and Lounge in Buckhead on Oct. 31 2011 and fell on a napkin, which was “hidden from view and unobservable.” The suit states that Joy Wilson was taken to the hospital for injuries she sustained in the fall and later died.

Ski’s attorney, Mark Trigg of Atlanta, said neither he nor Ski had seen a copy of the lawsuit. “It will be vigorously defended once we do,” Trigg said.

Ski left V-103 last year after being a fixture on the station’s top-rated morning show for 14 years.

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Golf Pro Sez Kidd Kraddick Didn’t ‘Look Well’

Kidd Kraddick

Kidd Kraddick died at his Kidd's Nation charity function in the New Orleans suburb of Gretna on Saturday, according to  publicist Ladd Biro who released a statement.

Richie Tomblin, head golf professional at the Timberlane Country Club in Gretna, told AP that Kraddick wasn't looking well when he saw him getting ready for Saturday's charity event.

"He came out and he borrowed my golf clubs and went out to the driving range," Tomblin told AP when contacted by phone. "It's kind of a freaky situation. He came out. He practiced a little bit. He hit the ball at the first tee and wasn't feeling good."

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Tomblin said the hundreds of amateur golfers taking part went ahead with the event Saturday. He added he only found out afterward that Kraddick had died and he was still shaken about it.

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MC has learned listeners of the syndicated show will hear a 'Best of..' Show Monday

The Reaction: Industry Stunned

Social media exploded with activity after news of the death broke. Kraddick’s Facebook page and a Kiss-FM tribute page were drawing a constant stream of condolences, and Twitter was active as well.

I will never wrap my brain around my fathers passing. Please keep me and my family in your prayers and ask The Lord to watch over my daddy.
— Caroline Cradick (@CarolineCradick) July 28, 2013

We are heartbroken over the loss of our dear friend and leader Kidd Kraddick. He will be missed http://t.co/9sqIBgEGSa
— 106.1 KISS FM (@1061KISSFMDFW) July 28, 2013

Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban offered his condolences: "You were an amazing man and a friend," he wrote. "You are already missed."

RIP Kidd Kraddick. You were an amazing man and a friend. You are already missed.
— Mark Cuban (@mcuban) July 28, 2013

Absolutely devastated to hear about the sad passing of Kidd Kraddick. He was always so nice and will be incredibly missed. Lovely man. RIP.
— Harry Styles (@OfficialHarrry) July 28, 2013

Very sad to hear about the death of Kidd Kraddick in Dallas at age 53. One of the bright lights of radio. RIP
— Gary Bryan (@garybryanshow) July 28, 2013

Also, praying for Kidd's family and friends.. Was a pleasure knowing you for so many years.. #WeLoveYouKidd ❤❤❤
— demetria lovato (@ddlovato) July 28, 2013

Yes. Brain aneurysm for @kiddkraddick. In the golf course for his charity kidds kids. So sad
— Billy Bush (@billybush) July 28, 2013

Crushed. Absolutely crushed. One of my mentors and best friends in radio. RT @mcuban: RIP Kidd Kraddick. You were an amazing man & a friend.
— Toucher and Rich (@Toucherandrich) July 28, 2013

RT @iHeartRadio: We are shocked and deeply saddened by the loss of on air talent Kidd Kraddick
— On Air/Ryan Seacrest (@OnAirWithRyan) July 28, 2013

Kidd, you'll be missed. Sending our LUV. #kiddnation pic.twitter.com/vEFO9LUDLW
— Southwest Airlines (@SouthwestAir) July 28, 2013

Wow. RIP Kidd Kraddick! Blown away! This DJ has always been a HUGE supporter of us! Prayers and love to his family!
— Chris Daughtry (@CHRIS_Daughtry) July 28, 2013

The 1990 KEGL Christmas Party. Remembering good times on a sad day! Good bye old friend @KiddKraddick @kiddnation pic.twitter.com/GxX3VNZvNm
— Rusty Humphries (@Talk2Rusty) July 28, 2013

Oh man, I just heard Kidd Kraddick died! He's my childhood dj. What a sad day. His poor family. He was always nice 2 me from the beginning.
— Kelly Clarkson (@kelly_clarkson) July 28, 2013

Really hope this is not true about Kidd Kraddick. You will be missed.
— Nick Jonas (@nickjonas) July 28, 2013

I cannot believe this news... @KiddKraddick has passed away. A radio legend that gave me so much advice and insight. RIP my man 😔
— Mo' Bounce (@RadioMoBounce) July 28, 2013

Wow... I'm heart broken to hear Kidd Kraddick passed away. Tears in my eyes... he was a great man with a... http://t.co/nNzfLf9MaB
— Tori Martin (@ToriMartinSings) July 28, 2013

@JohnKincade @KiddKraddick thank u. Without Kidd there would be no @bertsbigadv his work will live on
— Bert Weiss (@BertShowBert) July 28, 2013

I didn't know Kidd Kraddick but admired much about him personally and professionally. A terrible loss for both his family and for radio.
— KROQ's Bean (@clydetombaugh) July 28, 2013

Very sad about Kidd Kraddick. Wow.
— Brotha' Fred (@brofroradio) July 28, 2013

I'm simply stunned waking up to the news of the passing of Kidd Kraddick. We lost one of the great ones. #RIPKiddKraddick
— Paul Cubby Bryant (@PaulCubbyBryant) July 28, 2013

I am in shock. @KiddKraddick has died. He was an inspiration to me. The millions of lives he touched will surely miss him.
— Trey Morgan (@ItsTreyMorgan) July 28, 2013

Shocked and saddened to hear the news.
— Bobby Bones (@mrBobbyBones) July 28, 2013

Saddened by #KiddKraddick passing . He was such a talent, so well loved. A young man who died while raising money to help young kids. RIP
— Leeza Gibbons (@LeezaGibbons) July 28, 2013

@jefflynn @radioinsight To say that Kidd was a wonderful human is an understatement. He was a great broadcaster and an even better man!
— Mike McVay (@MikeMcVay) July 28, 2013

What an inspiration. What an amazing last lesson for a generation of radio professionals. Just so proud. So proud of how he lived.
— toby knapp (@tkradio) July 28, 2013

SO sorry to hear radio legend @KiddKraddick Kid Kraddick has died at 53. Morning Shows are a small fraternity that just got a lot smaller
— David Brody (@David_Brody) July 28, 2013

We are shocked and deeply saddened by the loss of on air talent Kidd Kraddick
— iHeartRadio (@iHeartRadio) July 28, 2013

D/FW Radio: 106.1 KISS-FM Kidd Kraddick Aircheck

KHKS 106.1 KissFM afternoon personality Billy The Kidd took to the air Saturday night with the sad news about the passing of Kidd Kraddick.

Flashback: Kidd Kraddick's Christmas Wish For Jlisa

One of Kidd Kraddick’s most special Christmas Wishes ever! Listen why Kidd took $10,000 out of his own pocket to help Jlisa. 

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Flashback: Kidd Kraddick Talks About His Show's Team

A few months ago, Kidd Kraddick talked about the hiring of each member the the mornings show ensemble.