Joe Kelly Signs Off
• Legendary voice talent Joe Kelly, known as the go-to Rock voiceover pro of the ’80s, ’90s & ’00s, and the co-founder of SuperSpots, has passed away at the age of 82.
Along with partner Jerry Bryant, Kelly launched SuperSpots in the early ’80s and became a titan in creating memorable TV campaigns in virtually every radio market in the Country.
At his height, Kelly was the voice of ABC-TV, Coors, Radio City Music Hall, United Airlines and for some great radio stations like KLOS/Los Angeles, WNEW-FM/New York, WLUP/Chicago and others. On the concert side, Kelly also the tour voice of Prince, the Rolling Stones, Tina Turner, The Who, Bob Seger, Rush, ZZ Top and many more.
“Joe Kelly was a true radio original!” said David Gariano, former Pres./CEO of SuperSpots. “Joe helped define the sound of Rock radio in the ’80s, ’90s, and ’00s with his signature voice and style. Joe WAS the DNA thread for great rockers like KGGO/Des Moines, KYYS/Kansas City, WLLZ/Detroit and countless others. I’m indebted to Joe for bringing me to Chicago to run SuperSpots and changing the trajectory of my life to this day!”
In a loving remembrance of his father, Kelly’s son Harley posted this message to Facebook, which reads, in part, “I have truly become a better man because of everything that I have learned from dad over the years, and his soon-to-be grandson will know how amazing his grandfather was! Rest in peace dad! If God ever needs to make any announcements, he knows who to turn to! Love you dad!”
To learn more about Joe Kelly’s remarkable life and career, may we suggest you read his book, Long Road To Sun City.
