Brian Kelly Departs Audacy Milwaukee
• In a surprising turn of events, RAMP has learned that Brian Kelly, a steady hand at the helm of Audacy Top 40 WXSS (103.7 Kiss FM) and Hot AC WMYX (99.1 The Mix)/Milwaukee for the better part of three decades, has exited his dual role as Operations Manager of the cluster and corporate VP of Top 40 Programming.
The bittersweet news was delivered to the staff in a memo from Jason Bjorson, SVP/Market Manager of Audacy Wisconsin, which reads, “After 29.5 years, Brian Kelly has resigned as our Vice President of Top 40 Programming and Operations Manager.
As you know, Brian’s contributions have been instrumental in shaping the success of 103.7 Kiss FM and 99.1 The Mix. For decades, these stations have been powerhouses in the Milwaukee radio landscape, led by morning shows that he created — Alley and DZ, Elizabeth and Radar, and others through his tenure. Outside of Milwaukee, Brian has also made a significant impact nationwide for all of Audacy’s Top 40 stations.
In closing, Bjorson said, “Brian was a great partner of mine this past year and a true professional. I really enjoyed learning from Brian and strategizing with him. Brian loved working with all of you and helping you grow in your careers, and I know he will miss all of you.”
Kelly’s career began in Milwaukee in 1981 doing afternoon drive on WBCS, followed by a stint as MD of WZUU until 1985, when he moved to Chicago as MD of WLS and PD of WYTZ (Z95). He later did mornings on WFYR and WWBZ (The Blaze)/Chicago. From 1992-95 Kelly was VP of Programming, Major Networks, for Satellite Radio Network, leading to his return to Milwaukee in Sept. 1995, joining Heritage Media AC WAMG (Magic 103.7) and overseeing its transformation to Top 40 WXSS on June 19, 1998. He annexed PD stripes for WMYX in 2005 and was elevated to Audacy VP of Top 40 in 2020.
Reflecting on his departure, Kelly remarked, “It has been an incredible journey working with such talented teams and being part of an industry I love. I am beyond grateful for the experiences, friendships, and successes over the years. While this chapter is closing, I’m excited to explore new adventures and opportunities in the industry and beyond.” That said, Kelly can be contacted at 414-915-0384 or brianvkelly@gmail.com.
