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Best Radio Personality 27.81% Doc West (WXKE)*
Others with Votes:
1998 Winner: Doc West
1997 Winner: Doc West
* On the ballot
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It was extremely close, but Doc West of WXKE-FM was named Favorite Radio Personality by whatzup’s readers. By a narrow margin, West edged out JJ Fabini of WXTW-FM. In fact, Fabini was followed in the voting by two other WXTW jocks, Buster Meyer and Matt Jericho. All of this group were presenters at the Whammy Awards. West’s victory is his fourth in the five-year history of the Best of Awards. Ironically (we love to use that word), the only radio personality ever to unseat West was Sharon Rossi, last year’s winner. We say ironically because Rossi had recently found herself relieved of her duties at the same station, WXKE. Meanwhile, Doc West, the gentle giant of Fort Wayne rock n’ roll radio, remains the most beloved figure on the scene. The station’s slogan is “the real rocker,” but that could just as easily apply to West. For years, West has prowled the local music scene, appearing at every event imaginable. One began to wonder if he ever slept. Much of his appeal stems from the station’s steadfast support of its loyal listeners: Fans of classic rock n’ roll in the Midwest style. Plenty of Arrowsmith, plenty of Rolling Stones, plenty of Tom Petty. Shining through all this aural assault has been West’s calm manner and respectful attitude toward the people who live their lives by this guitar-soaked soundtrack. There’s never been a snide remark or a hint of condescension in West’s voice or in his manner at those endless public appearance. Plus, his stubbornly independent station broadcasts from a really little building on Goshen Road, the most rock n’ roll road in town. He casts a giant shadow over Fort Wayne radio, and we’re glad he’s here. |
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