Tribute To One of Philly’s Great DJs

FROM LAURA NACHMAN

Here’s B101′s tribute to Brian Murphy, who died of cancer this week at the age of 57.

Here is his bio:

THE NAME might not be familiar, but the voice should be.

Brian Murphy's rich baritone had been heard on several Philadelphia radio stations over the years, as he served as announcer, DJ and recited the glories of various products in commercials.

In addition, Brian's winning personality and ready smile, as well as his professionalism, won the love and respect of colleagues wherever he sat before a microphone.

Brian died Tuesday after a long battle with cancer. He was 57 and lived in Chesterbrook, Chester County.

Since 2007, Brian did news, traffic and spun records on Saturdays and Sundays for station B101 - WBEB 101.1 FM.

"B101 lost a member of our family," said Blaise Howard, vice president and general manager. "Everyone loved Brian and his great sense of humor. He had a great passion for radio. We were all very lucky to have worked with such a great person and a radio pro."

"Brian was also a treasured member of our production team," the station said in a statement, "and you probably recognized his strong and beautiful voice on many commercials aired on B101 over the years.

"We'll miss his friendship, laughter and passion."

"I never had the opportunity to work with Brian Murphy, but no doubt, like countless others, I admired his talent nearly to a fault," said George Brusstar, veteran local broadcaster.

"I never ever heard this guy not sound absolutely amazing. Every time I'd hear him I would think to myself, 'Geez, doesn't this man ever have an off day?

"Everyone I've known who's worked with him has had nothing but tremendous things to say about him, both professionally and personally."

Brian was born in Schuylkill Haven, Pa., and graduated from high school there. He later attended a broadcasting school.

He started his radio career in Harrisburg, then went to Virginia Beach, Va., and then to Boston and Philadelphia, following what is often a broadcaster's peripatetic journey through the industry.

In Philadelphia, he worked for WIP, KYW News Radio, Eagle 106, Star 104.5, WOGL and MIX 95.7.

After he landed at B101 as weekend talent and commercial producer, he "quickly became one of the most sought-after commercial voices in Philadelphia," the station said.

B101 is an adult contemporary radio station founded in 1963 by veteran Philadelphia radio pioneer Jerry Lee.

"We're a very close family here," said Chuck Knight, program director, and as a result Brian Murphy's death saddened all of his colleagues.

Brian is survived by his wife, Nina, and daughter, Kelli.

Services: A memorial service will be arranged later.

http://www.philly.com/philly/obituaries/20111201_B101_s_Brian_Murphy__a_radio_pro.html

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