Atlanta Welcomes Cadillac Back

There was a festive and deeply emotional atmosphere evident yesterday in Atlanta as Cumulus Country WKHX (Kicks 101.5) welcomed 22-year morning personality Cadillac Jack back to work after his month-long recovery from a heart attack. The station held a massive “Welcome Back Cadillac” live broadcast from Carl Black Buick GMC in Kennesaw. GA, and the show was loaded with messages from Country artists who either called in live or sent audio or video greetings. The long list of stars included Garth Brooks, Jason Aldean, Brad Paisley, Big & Rich, Eric Church, Kenny Chesney, Thomas Rhett, Michael Ray, John Pardi, Chris Janson, Kristian Bush, Trace Adkins, Brantley Gilbert, Mark Wills and Craig Campbell. Toby Keith was the show’s guest in the 7am hour and Atlanta Braves Manager Brian Snitker called in from the team’s training camp in Florida.

Georgia Governor Nathan Deal and Atlanta City Council Member Michael Julian Bond welcomed Cadillac back, and Bond read a proclamation declaring March 27th to be recognized annually as “Cadillac Jack Day in Atlanta.” An overwhelmed Cadillac accepted the award to a standing ovation from the crowd. VP/Market Manager Sean Shannon was then invited up on stage to share the big news that the company has recommitted their faith in Cadillac Jack by signing him to a new four-year agreement!

And in what was certainly the most emotional moment of the broadcast, arranged by Morning Show Producer Jeremy Powell, Cadillac was surprised by members of the Milton, GA Fire Department, including the team that had responded to his 911 call on February 21. In the coming days, Kicks 101-5 will auction a bunch of artist-autographed items to help fund the Milton Fire Department’s life-saving operations. Yesterday, after the show wrapped, Kicks PD Scott Lindy told RAMP, “This was one of the most exhausting and fulfilling live radio events I have even been honored to be a part of. Truly energizing. I love this programming and promotions staff, this company, Atlanta’s Country fans and the moments we were able to create for Cadillac Jack today. Days like today are why we endure long hours, ratings dogfights, etc. Long live Cadillac Jack and Dallas, Mornings On Kicks 101-5!”