Chicago radio icon Frank E. Lee retires from WXRT — again
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Illustration: Brendan Lynch/Axios
Rock radio vet Frank E. Lee announced his retirement from WXRT.
The big picture: 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.
What they're saying: "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.
Zoom out: Lee grew up on the South Side and attended Columbia College in the late '70s. He 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.
The bottom line: "If you see me on the street wearing my vintage WXRT gear, say hi and prepare to share boring stories of the good old days," Lee said on social media.
- "Goodbye and end of transmission."