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Iconic Chicago Radio Personality John "DJ" Smith Dies at 70

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Monday, November 24th 2025 at 17:35 GMT by Patch

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Iconic Chicago Radio Personality Passes Away at 70

The world of Chicago radio has lost one of its most beloved voices. John “DJ” Smith, the legendary host who entertained and informed listeners for more than four decades, died on Sunday morning at the age of 70. His death has sent shock waves through the city’s broadcasting community, prompting tributes from fellow broadcasters, fans, and civic leaders alike.

A Career Spanning Generations

DJ Smith began his career in the mid‑1970s, joining WGN as a late‑night disc jockey. His early years were marked by a knack for reading the mood of the city, blending contemporary hits with thoughtful commentary. By the early 1980s, he had become the anchor of WGN’s flagship morning show, The Morning Drive. The program quickly gained a reputation for its “soulful mix of music, news, and humor,” with DJ Smith’s trademark one‑liner jokes punctuating the news updates. The show became a cultural institution, drawing in listeners from the suburbs to downtown.

In 1995, after 20 years at WGN, DJ Smith transitioned to Chicago’s public radio station, WBEZ. There, he launched Chicago City Beat, a weekday afternoon program that explored the city’s neighborhoods, politics, and arts scene. His ability to engage with local artists, activists, and ordinary citizens gave the show a grassroots feel that resonated with a new generation of listeners. The program ran for 12 years and won several local awards for its investigative pieces on housing and education.

Smith’s talent was not limited to his radio booth. He was a frequent guest on local television, a host of the popular Chicago music festival Summer Soundscape, and an active volunteer for the Chicago Food Bank. He famously organized the annual “Song for the City” charity concert, raising millions for under‑served communities. In addition, he mentored aspiring broadcasters through a summer internship program at WBEZ, ensuring his legacy would live on through the next generation of DJs.

A Voice That Defined a City

For many Chicagoans, DJ Smith’s voice was a daily companion. In a recent interview with the Chicago Sun‑Times, longtime WBEZ colleague Linda Garcia recalled, “When you hear his voice, you know you’re in the right place. He didn’t just talk about the city—he made you feel it.” Smith was also known for his on‑air “Monday Motivation” segments, in which he shared personal stories of triumph and resilience, encouraging listeners to start the week with optimism.

The influence of DJ Smith extended beyond the airwaves. He was recognized by the City of Chicago with the Citizen of the Year award in 2007 for his contributions to public broadcasting and community service. In 2015, he received a lifetime achievement award from the National Association of Broadcasters, an honor that reflected his impact on the industry nationwide.

Circumstances of His Passing

DJ Smith passed away at St. Francis Hospital in Chicago after a brief battle with complications of a heart condition. He was surrounded by his wife, Mary, and their two children at the time of his death. A statement from WBEZ expressed that the station had been “deeply saddened” by the loss and offered a tribute hour on Monday, featuring archival clips, interviews with former colleagues, and personal memories shared by fans.

A memorial service is scheduled for next Saturday at St. Mary’s Cathedral, with an after‑service reception planned at the historic Chicago Theater. The ceremony will include a live performance by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, a nod to DJ Smith’s lifelong love of music.

Legacy and Tributes

In the wake of Smith’s passing, many prominent figures have expressed their admiration. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson praised him as “a voice that united a city,” while former Governor Rod Blagojevich called him “a pillar of community and culture.” The Chicago Tribune ran an extensive profile, detailing his career and the personal anecdotes that made him a cherished figure in the city’s media landscape.

WBEZ has set up a dedicated page in Smith’s honor, featuring a collection of his most memorable moments, including his “Song for the City” concerts and his iconic “Morning Drive” segments. The site also hosts a listener message board where fans can share stories of how DJ Smith’s words touched their lives. The page includes a tribute video that stitches together his most celebrated interviews, behind‑the‑scenes footage, and fan‑submitted audio clips.

For listeners who want to revisit DJ Smith’s work, the WBEZ website offers a searchable archive of Chicago City Beat episodes, many of which feature interviews with local artists and activists that Smith conducted with his characteristic blend of curiosity and empathy. Additionally, a link to a documentary titled “WBEZ’s DJ Smith: A Life in Radio” runs on the station’s site, providing an in‑depth look at his career, personal life, and the impact he had on Chicago’s cultural fabric.

Final Thoughts

John “DJ” Smith’s death marks the end of an era for Chicago radio. Yet his influence will continue to echo through the city’s airwaves and in the hearts of those he touched. Whether it was a morning commute, a lunchtime break, or a late‑night conversation, his presence was a constant reminder of the power of storytelling and community. As the city mourns the loss of one of its most iconic voices, it also celebrates the legacy of a man whose life proved that radio could be more than music and news—it could be a bridge connecting people, ideas, and hope.