Remembering Ken Calvert Detroit Radio Legend and Pistons Bad Boys Voice, Dies at 72

Publish date: 2024-05-09

Detroit and radio industry alike are mourning the sudden passing of legendary broadcaster Ken Calvert at age 72. His impressive career spanned four decades at six major stations before his unexpected demise due to short-term illness has come as a shock and left behind a legacy filled with memories, achievements and an impactful impression on Detroit culture.

Who Was Ken Calvert?

Ken Calvert was a respected radio broadcaster from Detroit who enjoyed an outstanding 45-year career spanning multiple radio stations: WWWW-FM, WABX-FM, WRIF-FM, WLLZ-FM and WCSX-FM before finally ending it all at WJR-AM. Beyond radio broadcasting alone, Calvert served Sony Music’s Columbia Records as local and regional promotion and marketing manager as well.

Calvert began his education at Brother Rice High School before continuing it at Oakland Community College and Aquinas College in Grand Rapids. His deep ties to Detroit could be seen through both his professional choices as well as contributions he made to its cultural fabric – his dedication and love of Detroit were evident in everything he created, making him a much-beloved local figure.

What Led to Ken Calvert’s Passing?

Ken Calvert died unexpectedly following a short-term illness confirmed by his wife Anne. He passed away at his Oakland County residence, leaving behind family, friends and fans devastated with sorrow over his sudden departure. Though short term, its severity made its impact felt profoundly to those who knew and loved Ken.

Calvert’s unexpected loss has provoked much reflection about his life and its impact. His passing is a stark reminder of life’s unpredictability and to cherish every moment with people such as Calvert.

How Did Ken Calvert Impact the Radio Industry?

Ken Calvert had an immense impact in radio. Not only was he known as one of its voices on airwaves, he was also widely seen as a mentor and friend among industry colleagues, as described by long-term friend Jim Johnson. Additionally, his tenure at various major stations as well as his promotion work at Columbia Records highlighted his versatility and depth of knowledge within this field.

Ken Calvert made an indelible mark on radio broadcasting thanks to his ability to reach his listeners with charisma, humor, and insight – something few other broadcasters could match. His passion for the medium and his dedication to excellence set an exemplary standard that other industry professionals followed after him; indeed his name will live long on in radio’s legacy.

Remembering Ken Calvert

As Detroit and the radio community mourn Ken Calvert’s passing, tributes and memories of him have continued to pour in, reflecting his many admirable traits throughout his career. Serving as PA announcer for Piston during their “Bad Boys” era was especially special; connecting him with even wider audiences in sports.

Tributes from Isiah Thomas (via YouTube tribute), Jim Johnson and others showcase Ken Calvert’s profound impact on those he knew and met throughout his remarkable career at WCSX radio in Detroit and its affiliate stations. When retiring on December 20, 2013, exactly 10 years before his death, was an incredible bookend that will remain part of Ken’s memory forever – both to those he touched personally as well as Detroit as an institution. As people come together to remember Ken, it becomes apparent that his spirit, voice and contributions will continue to live on through those whom he touched over time.

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