The airwaves in Boston’s radio landscape have gone quiet, and there is a palpable feeling of mystery and anxiety in the air.
The loss of a recognizable voice, one that brought comedy and rock music to many mornings, has created a significant vacuum.
The radio community is grappling with an unsaid question that remains in the air as tributes and condolences come in from listeners and colleagues alike.
The unexpected departure of a popular personality has left a pall over the listeners who tuned in for his wit and charm.
His legacy, constructed over nearly two decades, inspires wonder and thought about the future of the airwaves he once ruled.
Kevin Karlson: Who is he?
Kevin Karlson was a popular morning show host on Boston’s 100.7 WZLX-FM, a classic rock radio station. He had been a staple on the Boston radio landscape for almost two decades, offering his listeners humor and classic rock as co-host of WZLX’s morning program since 2005.
Karlson previously anchored the morning program for WPDH-FM in New York alongside fellow broadcasters Pete McKenzie and Heather Ford.
Kevin Karlson, along with Pete McKenzie and Heather Ford, was one of the three hosts on “Karlson, McKenzie & Heather,” Boston’s only classic rock morning program.
This famous show had aired on WZLX for an incredible 14 years. Karlson, who was born in Ohio, brought a plethora of expertise to his radio career.
His collaboration with McKenzie lasted three decades, during which time they worked on morning radio in various parts of the United States.
This wealth of expertise surely helped the chemistry and popularity of their morning program, which became a beloved fixture on Boston’s radio dial.
What happened to Kevin Karlson?
Kevin Karlson, a renowned morning show presenter on Boston’s classic rock radio station 100.7 WZLX-FM, died in his sleep overnight, the station confirmed.
Kevin Karlson’s untimely death has severely affected not just the WZLX family, but also the whole Boston radio community, where he left an unmistakable stamp on the morning airways.
Kenny Young, a colleague, acknowledged the tremendous effect of this loss, advising everyone to appreciate their loved ones during these trying times.
Kevin Karlson: Cause of Death
The exact cause of Kevin Karlson’s death remained unknown, according to WZLX anchor Carter Alan during an on-air statement on Friday.
The untimely death of a renowned radio personality elicited a flow of poignant tributes and condolences from listeners and colleagues alike, both on social media and on the airways.
WZLX invited listeners to express their recollections and tributes to the “snarky, pot-stirring rascal,” as one caller called him.
The outpouring of love and gratitude for Kevin Karlson underscored the huge influence he had on his listeners, with one saying he brought humor and brightness to their daily lives.
His family, friends, and the larger community of committed listeners who were affected by his work and personality sent heartfelt condolences.
Kevin Karlson’s tragic death signaled the end of an era in Boston’s radio culture, leaving a gap felt by many.
It is with great sadness that 100.7 WZLX shares news of the unexpected passing of our friend, Kevin Karlson. https://t.co/y2xhwwXx20
— 100.7 WZLX (@wzlx) October 27, 2023
Kevin Karlson: Beyond the Radio Waves
Kevin Karlson’s biography on the show’s website provided insight into his personality outside of the radio, showcasing his sense of humor and self-deprecation.
His hobbies included the relatable pastimes of grumbling about numerous things and the continual quest to lose weight, which he admittedly lost.
While not a radio award, his being awarded “Employee of the Month” in June 1994 hinted at the warmth and respect he received from people he worked with, demonstrating the impression he made on his colleagues.
