For fifty years, his velvety voice resonated through the radios of thousands of Tucson listeners, becoming a comforting and familiar presence. In the vibrant tapestry of Tucson’s radio history, one name stands out.
For fifty years, the warm, velvety voice of Ed Alexander has been a comforting presence on Tucson's airwaves, becoming a beloved symbol of the city's rich broadcasting heritage. Ed's extraordinary journey, which began in 1970, has seen him rise to legendary status, his career mirroring the vibrant evolution of music and radio in Tucson. He has been more than just a broadcaster; he has been a cherished member of the community, a voice that has touched hearts and brought joy to countless listeners over the decades. Ed's legacy is one of dedication, passion, and an unwavering connection to the people of Tucson, making him an immeasurable part of the city's cultural fabric.
Ed is a proud graduate of Rincon High School (GO RANGERS!). He stepped into the world of radio during a landmark year for rock music, coinciding with the debut albums of legends like Elton John, Rod Stewart, and Black Sabbath. His early days were spent hosting morning shows on KWFM, Tucson’s original Album Rock station, where he immersed listeners in the sounds of The Beatles, The Doors, and Led Zeppelin.
Ed's versatility quickly became apparent as he transitioned to afternoons on 1330-KHIT “The Underdog,” blending old and new pop hits. By the fall of 1972, he had secured a spot at Tucson’s leading station, 990 KTKT. Over the years, Ed worked various time slots, eventually becoming the morning host, joined by sidekicks such as Tonie Stanton, Mike Letson, and Allen Kath, among others. His dynamic presence and leadership skills led him to roles as music director, program director, and eventually Operations Manager. In the summer of 1979, Ed played a pivotal role in launching Classic Rock 96.1 KLPX.
When KTKT transitioned away from music programming, Ed continued to enchant listeners with Cool Oldies on 790AM and 92.9FM, alongside notable personalities like Alan Michaels and Bill Mortimer. The mid-90s saw him holding down afternoons on 94.9 KKLD “Cloud 95” and later 94.9 MixFM. His career evolved further as he hosted mornings on Mega Oldies 106.3/104.9 and took on the role of Operations Manager for Good News Communications stations in 2010.
For a decade, he produced the “Wake Up, Tucson” morning talk show on KVOI and programmed Pop Classics 690 KCEE.
Ed’s impact extended beyond the studio. He was a prominent figure in the community, hosting events such as the March of Dimes walkathons, MDA & Humane Society Telethons, and the Michael Landon Celebrity Tennis Classic. His commitment to public service included hundreds of live business remote broadcasts and a deep involvement with nonprofit and community service events.
Ed retired at the end of 2020, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and passion for radio. Today, he enjoys a well-deserved retirement with his wife Julie, their family, and two granddaughters. He continues to give back to the community as an active volunteer with the Southern Arizona American Red Cross, where his stepdaughter, Courtney, serves as Executive Director.
The echoes of Ed's velvety voice still lingers in the hearts of Tucson's listeners. His fifty-year journey, filled with passion, dedication, and an unwavering love for radio, has not only defined his own legacy but also shaped the cultural landscape of Tucson. Ed's presence will be profoundly missed on the airwaves, yet his impact will continue to resonate through the countless lives he touched.
On behalf of the entire staff at The Drive Tucson, we salute you today, Ed. Your remarkable career is a testament to your talent, resilience, and unwavering connection to Tucson. Although your voice may no longer be a daily presence on the airwaves, know that your influence and contributions to the world of radio and the Tucson community will be remembered for generations to come.
Thank you for paving the way, for those here today.
We love you, Ed!
Photo Credits:
Ed Alexander,
“Entertaining Tucson Across the Decades,” © 2014 Entertainment Magazine.”
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