Dick Biondi Obituary, How Did Legendary Chicago Disc Jockey Dick Biondi Die?
by Rubaditsha
Updated Jul 03, 2023
Who was Dick Biondi?
Richard Orlando Biondi, known as Dick Biondi, was a prominent American disc jockey specializing in Top 40 and oldies music. With a self-proclaimed moniker as The Wild I-tralian, he was recognized for his energetic delivery, including screaming on the airwaves, as well as his eccentric behavior both on and off the radio.
In a 1988 interview, Biondi revealed that he had been fired 23 times, often due to outbursts of anger or jokes that didn't land well. Throughout his career, he became known for his signature closing line, "God bless, bye, bye, Duke. Thanks a million for dialing our way."
Biondi rose to national prominence during the 1950s and 1960s while working as a disc jockey at influential AM radio stations in Buffalo, New York; Chicago, Illinois; and Los Angeles, California. Notably, he was among the first DJs to introduce artists like Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Gene Vincent to a wide audience.
His involvement in the early Rock and Roll era included making personal appearances at local schools and clubs, known as "record hops," where he had the opportunity to meet and interact with these artists. One of Biondi's notable achievements was being credited as the first U.S. disc jockey to play the Beatles on the radio.
In February 1963, he played their song "Please Please Me" on Chicago's WLS 890 AM, marking a significant moment in music history. During his tenure at KRLA in Los Angeles, he also had the privilege of introducing the Beatles and the Rolling Stones at their legendary Hollywood Bowl concerts.
From 1984 onward, Biondi became a fixture on oldies stations in his hometown of Chicago, solidifying his reputation and continuing to entertain audiences with his distinctive style. On May 2, 2010, he celebrated the 50th anniversary of his first broadcast in Chicago, which was commemorated with a special 5-hour simulcast event featuring memorable moments from his career and appearances by celebrity guests.
Biondi's contributions to the radio industry were recognized when he was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in Chicago, further cementing his status as a revered figure in broadcasting.
Dick Biondi Obituary
Dick Biondi, a renowned figure in radio, has passed away at the age of 90. Throughout his impressive 67-year career, he was predominantly based in Chicago. The Museum of Broadcast Communications acknowledges Biondi as the first American disc jockey to play the Beatles on WLS-AM in February 1963.
Biondi passed away at his residence on Monday, June 26, and he was honored as a member of the Radio Hall of Fame. Dave Plier, the Board Chair of the Museum of Broadcast Communications, expressed his condolences in a statement, describing Biondi as a true radio legend.
Biondi's influence on rock radio in Chicago and nationwide was significant, thanks to his work on WLS radio's powerful 50,000-watt signal. In addition to being remembered as the first U.S. disc jockey to play the Beatles on Chicago's WLS 890 AM, he was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 1998. Biondi was a close friend and longstanding supporter of the Museum of Broadcast Communications, and his absence will be deeply felt by radio enthusiasts throughout the country.
How Did Legendary Chicago Disc Jockey Dick Biondi Die?
Dick Biondi, a highly regarded radio personality based in Chicago and a member of the Radio Hall of Fame, has passed away at the age of 90. He made history as the first American disc jockey to play the Beatles on the radio. The news of his death was confirmed by WLS-AM 890, as reported by the Chicago Tribune.
Known as the "King of the Oldies," Biondi played a pivotal role in introducing classic rock music to American radio audiences. In recognition of his significant contributions to the industry, he was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 1998.
Throughout his impressive 67-year career, Biondi entertained the listeners of various radio stations, including WLS, WCFL, WMAQ, WBBM, and WJMK. His distinctive voice, which has left an indelible mark on the radio and rock and roll scene, will forever be part of the soundtrack of our lives, as stated in the Facebook announcement by WLS-AM 890.
Born in Endicott, New York, Biondi began his radio journey at WINR Binghamton and WCBA Corning before finding his breakthrough position with WLS in 1960. In 1963, he relocated to KRLA Los Angeles, becoming the first radio personality to play the Beatles on a station. However, he returned to Chicago in 1967, where he worked at WCFL and WMAQ.
Over the years, he transitioned between different stations and eventually launched a syndicated Oldies show at WNMB in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. In 1984, Biondi joined Oldies 104.3 WJMK and remained with the station until it underwent a rebranding to "Jack-FM" in 2005. He concluded his illustrious radio career in 2006 with 94.7 WLS-FM, where he continued to captivate audiences until his retirement in 2017 due to health reasons.
In addition to being a member of the Radio Hall of Fame, Biondi was also honored in the Illinois Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame and featured in the radio exhibit of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The passing of Dick Biondi marks the end of an era in radio broadcasting, and his contributions will forever be remembered and cherished by fans and industry professionals alike.
Dick Biondi Chicago Radio Legend?
Dick Biondi, a legendary figure in the world of Chicago radio, has left an indelible mark on the industry with his remarkable career spanning nearly six decades. Known as the "King of the Oldies," Biondi captivated audiences and gained a national following. He passed away at the age of 90 on June 26, leaving behind a legacy of influential radio broadcasting.
Biondi began his broadcasting journey in 1950 as a sportscaster at WCBA in Corning, New York. However, his rise to prominence came when he joined Chicago radio station WLS in 1960. This marked the start of his iconic tenure in the Windy City, where he helped shape the landscape of American rock 'n' roll.
During the 1960s, Biondi played a crucial role in introducing the energetic sounds of rock 'n' roll to audiences across the United States and Canada. His work at WLS and later at WCFL, both top AM top-40 stations, cemented his status as a pioneering DJ. With WLS's powerful 50,000-watt signal, Biondi's voice echoed through the airwaves, reaching listeners in 40 states.
Biondi's impact on the radio scene was unprecedented. He commanded an impressive 60% share of all listeners during his peak years from 1960 to 1963 on WLS radio. Billboard magazine recognized his immense popularity by naming him the top disc jockey in the United States on two occasions.
In February 1963, Biondi made history by being the first DJ to play a Beatles record in the United States. He spun "Please Please Me" by the Beatles on WLS, exposing American listeners to the British invasion that would forever change the music industry. The song, released on the Vee-Jay label at the time, achieved significant success on WLS's rankings, reaching the fifth spot in March 1963.
Biondi's talents extended beyond Chicago as he made his way to KRLA radio in Los Angeles in 1964. There, he hosted "The Dick Biondi Road Show" and launched the nationally syndicated program "Dick Biondi's Young America." However, his love for Chicago brought him back in 1967, where he continued to make waves on WCFL with specialty shows like "Pop Goes the Music."
Throughout his career, Biondi's influence and contributions were widely recognized. He was honored with induction into the Radio Hall of Fame in 1998, solidifying his status as a true radio legend. Additionally, Biondi played a significant role in introducing and promoting renowned bands such as The Beatles and The Rolling Stones at concerts, further solidifying his impact on the music industry.
In 1984, Biondi embarked on a new venture, launching an oldies format at WJMK radio in Chicago. This endeavor showcased his ability to adapt to changing trends while staying true to his roots. In 2006, he returned to WLS, this time on the FM side, and continued to captivate audiences until his well-deserved retirement.
Biondi's contributions to the city of Chicago were duly recognized. In his honor, the city named an alley south of the old WLS studios "Dick Biondi Way," paying tribute to his immense influence on the radio landscape. Reflecting on his career, Biondi humbly expressed the awe he felt when standing before thousands of people on stage.
He marveled at his journey, starting from reading commercials as an 8-year-old in Auburn, New York, to becoming a celebrated radio personality. Biondi believed that the experience of connecting with a live audience was an unparalleled high, surpassing any drug or romance. Dick Biondi's legacy as a Chicago radio legend, an innovator in rock 'n' roll, and a trailblazing DJ will forever be remembered. His impact on the music industry, his fans, and fellow professionals will continue to inspire generations to come.
What Happened to Dick Biondi?
Dick Biondi, the renowned Chicago radio personality and "King of the Oldies," passed away on June 26 at the age of 90. The exact cause of his death was not disclosed, but it is worth noting that in April 2017, Biondi left WLS radio after being hospitalized for a leg ailment, as reported by the Chicago Tribune.
Biondi's career spanned an impressive 67 years, during which he made a significant impact on the radio industry. He began his broadcasting journey in 1950 as a sportscaster at WCBA in Corning, New York, before eventually finding his way to Chicago in 1960. It was there that he joined WLS, one of the city's top AM top-40 stations, and embarked on a remarkable tenure that would shape his legacy.
Known for his charismatic presence and undeniable talent, Biondi played a pivotal role in popularizing rock 'n' roll in the United States and Canada. His work at WLS and later at WCFL, another influential Chicago station, earned him a devoted following and solidified his reputation as a pioneering DJ. Biondi's captivating voice, amplified by WLS's powerful 50,000-watt signal, reached listeners in 40 states, making him a beloved figure among rock music enthusiasts.
Biondi's impact extended beyond his local Chicago audience. He was recognized as one of the nation's most recognizable disc jockeys, and his contributions to the radio industry were acknowledged with his induction into the Radio Hall of Fame in 1998. Throughout his career, he introduced and promoted iconic bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones at concerts, leaving an indelible mark on the music landscape.
After his initial stint in Chicago, Biondi briefly moved to KRLA radio in Los Angeles in 1964, where he hosted his own shows and achieved further acclaim. However, his love for Chicago drew him back in 1967, and he continued to entertain listeners with his specialty programs on WCFL.
Biondi's passion for radio endured, and he remained a beloved figure throughout his career. In 1984, he launched an oldies format at WJMK radio in Chicago, showcasing his adaptability and dedication to his craft. He later returned to WLS in 2006, this time on the FM side, and continued to captivate audiences until his retirement in 2017 due to health concerns. Throughout his life, Biondi received numerous accolades and honors, including the distinction of having an alley south of the old WLS studios named "Dick Biondi Way" in his honor by the city of Chicago.
Looking back on his journey, Biondi marveled at the transformative power of radio and the exhilaration of connecting with his audience. He recognized the privilege of going from a young boy reading commercials in Auburn, New York, to standing before thousands of people as a revered radio personality. His impact on the industry, his dedication to music, and his ability to forge a deep connection with his listeners will forever be cherished.
Dick Biondi's legacy as a radio legend and a pioneer in rock 'n' roll will continue to inspire and resonate with fans and aspiring broadcasters alike. His contributions to the world of radio broadcasting and his role in shaping the music landscape will always be remembered.
Dick Biondi Obituary:FAQs
Dick Biondi, a renowned figure in radio, has passed away at the age of 90. Throughout his impressive 67-year career, he was predominantly based in Chicago.
Dick Biondi was known as a prominent American disc jockey specializing in Top 40 and oldies music. He gained attention for his energetic delivery, including screaming on the airwaves, and his eccentric behavior both on and off the radio.
According to a 1988 interview, Dick Biondi revealed that he had been fired 23 times throughout his career.
Dick Biondi is credited as the first U.S. disc jockey to play the Beatles on the radio. He played their song "Please Please Me" on Chicago's WLS 890 AM in February 1963.
Dick Biondi worked at leading AM radio stations in Buffalo, New York; Chicago, Illinois; and Los Angeles, California during his career.