© 2024 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
TECHNOTE: WKAR broadcast signals will be off-air or low power during tower maintenance

Legendary Radio Host Casey Kasem Dies At 82

LINDA WERTHEIMER, HOST:

We'd like to take a moment now to remember legendary radio host Casey Kasem who died yesterday. He was the voice behind the hugely popular music countdown program, the long-running American Top 40, which he launched in 1970.

(SOUNDBITE OF RADIO SHOW, "AMERICAN TOP 40")

CASEY KASEM: There it is - the number one song in the USA on American Top 40 for the fourth week running - "Hey Ya!" by OutKast.

RENEE MONTAGNE, HOST:

Kasem brought listeners music and trivia, dedications, and the famous dear Casey letters. He was also a voice actor for four decades, voicing shagging in the Scooby Doo cartoon series.

(SOUNDBITE OF TV SHOW, "SCOOBY DOO")

KASEM: I've got to admit that's some act.

WERTHEIMER: Kasem's, perhaps, best remembered for how he closed his radio broadcasts.

KASEM: My name's Casey Kasem, reminding you to keep your feet in the ground and keep reaching for the stars.

MONTAGNE: Casey Kasem died yesterday at the age of 82. And you're listening to MORNING EDITION from NPR News. Transcript provided by NPR, Copyright NPR.

Journalism at this station is made possible by donors who value local reporting. Donate today to keep stories like this one coming. It is thanks to your generosity that we can keep this content free and accessible for everyone. Thanks!