Bob Kingsley Battling Bladder Cancer
• Our thoughts go with legendary Country radio personality Bob Kingsley, who announced today that he is battling bladder cancer, and will be temporarily stepping away from hosting his countdown show, Bob Kingsley’s Country Top 40, which airs globally on 320 stations, distributed by Westwood One.•
Kingsley said, “While there is no doubt that the immediate road ahead will push me and challenge my resolve, I want you to know I am blessed to be working with the very best in the medical profession, and they have a plan to deal with this awful disease. The faith you have placed in me is something I treasure, and that support has allowed me to do what I love in this wonderful industry for 60 years. I have no intention of stopping anytime soon, but for a moment, I need to ask for your patience as I step away from the mic and focus on my treatment. Those of you who know me personally, know I would not be here today, and could not continue in this moment without my beautiful bride of 30 years, Nan. Her strength is unmatched, and she is by my side every step of the way.”
Kingsley continued, “My amazing team at the Country Top 40 and KCCS Productions, and our extended family at Westwood One, will be following up very soon with our temporary plan. And I do have to say, we are very far down the road on a concept we have been working on for a while in conjunction with this year’s CMA Awards — one that I thought I would get to be a part of over the next several weeks. That, however, is not going to be possible, but I am looking forward to hearing it from the other side of the speakers. You know friends, I’ve made a career out of #1s, and right now my #1 goal is getting back on the air to create more memories we’ll all be able to share, surrounded by the music we all love. I thank you in advance for the prayers and well wishes… they mean more to me than you could ever know.”
The Show Must Go On
• Shortly after Kingsley broke his news, the CMA issued its own statement of support that read, in part, “Country music’s longest-running syndicated show host, Bob Kingsley is still breaking new ground as he celebrates his 45th year involved with the most-listened-to Country music countdown program in history. Today, a partnership with the CMA that began taking shape prior to Kingsley’s announcement to his listeners and affiliates that he is battling bladder cancer will continue and enhance Country Music’s Biggest Night™.”
Over the course of several weeks Bob Kingsley’s Country Top 40 will spotlight the legacy of female voices in the format — beginning the weekend of October 12-13 and running through the weekend of November 30-December 1 Kingsley will turn over the mic to Country music’s most impactful female artists to help count down the week’s top 40 biggest hits. Already confirmed: Trisha Yearwood, Kimberly Schlapman & Karen Fairchild of Little Big Town, and Martina McBride,with more TBA.
Sarah Trahern, CEO of the Country Music Association, said, “Bob Kingsley defines Country music and I could not be more proud to know of his passion for female talent and his desire to recognize them in this significant way,” says “This year’s show is turning out to be one of our most important ever. With Carrie, Reba & Dolly leading the charge as our hosts, additional female artists will have the opportunity to showcase their hosting abilities, all the while being able to magnify their music. Bob has, and always will be, a leader in this industry, and this initiative is another shining example of that fact. With today’s news about Bob’s health, he has some amazing ladies ensuring his show remains at the top of its game.”
