Legendary Chicago rock disc jockey and personality Richard “Dick” Biondi passed away earlier this week at the age of 90, as announced by WLS-AM 890 on Facebook Saturday night. Biondi died peacefully at his home on Monday, June 26, according to the radio station.
The Facebook post described Biondi as the “loving husband of Maribeth, cherished brother of Geri, dear brother-in-law of Ron and Larry (Kathleen), special uncle and cousin of many.”
Born on September 13, 1932, in upstate New York, Biondi spent a significant portion of his illustrious 67-year career in Chicago, working for stations such as WLS, WCFL WMAQ, WBBM, and WJMK. He is widely recognized as one of the earliest radio DJs to play rock music on American airwaves, a time when the genre was still considered controversial.
Biondi’s contributions to the radio industry were acknowledged with his induction into the National Radio Hall of Fame. In 2010, the city of Chicago honored him by naming an alley south of the old WLS studios near East Lake Street and Garland Court “Dick Biondi Way.”
WLS expressed their admiration for Biondi, stating, “His Radio and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame voice will remain as part of the soundtrack of our lives.”
Biondi’s legacy as a radio legend and pioneer in rock music will continue to resonate with fans and listeners, ensuring his impact on the industry will never be forgotten.
What were Richard Biondi’s contributions to the radio industry and rock music?
Legendary Chicago rock disc jockey and personality Richard “Dick” Biondi, 90, passed away earlier this week. WLS-AM 890 announced his death on Facebook Saturday night. Biondi died peacefully at his home on Monday, June 26, according to the radio station.
Described on Facebook as the “loving husband of Maribeth, cherished brother of Geri, dear brother-in-law of Ron and Larry (Kathleen), special uncle and cousin of many,” Biondi’s impact on the radio industry and rock music cannot be overstated.
Born on September 13, 1932, in upstate New York, Biondi spent a significant portion of his illustrious 67-year career working for Chicago stations such as WLS, WCFL, WMAQ, WBBM, and WJMK. As one of the earliest radio DJs to play rock music on American airwaves, he played a vital role in shaping the genre during a time when it was still considered controversial.
Biondi’s contributions to the radio industry were widely acknowledged, leading to his induction into the National Radio Hall of Fame. In honor of his achievements, the city of Chicago named an alley south of the old WLS studios near East Lake Street and Garland Court “Dick Biondi Way” in 2010.
WLS expressed their admiration for Biondi, stating that his “Radio and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame voice will remain as part of the soundtrack of our lives.”
As a true legend and pioneer in rock music, Biondi’s impact on the industry will never be forgotten. His legacy will continue to resonate with fans and listeners, ensuring that his contributions remain integral to the history of radio and rock music.
Dick Biondi was a true icon in the world of radio. His passion for music and ability to connect with listeners made him a legendary figure in Chicago. We will forever remember his contributions and the impact he had on the industry. Rest in peace, Dick Biondi.