Jim Johnson Bids Farewell to Detroit’s Airwaves after 52 Years

Art Vuolo has commemorated the end of an era by capturing Jim Johnson’s last day on the radio. Johnson, a beloved figure at Audacy Detroit's 104.3 WOMC, concluded his broadcasting career with a final show shot in-studio on December 1. His tenure spanned over five decades, having begun at the station back when it was still known as WEXL.

The Voice of Detroit

Reflecting on his extensive career, Johnson reminisced about his childhood dreams. "Growing up, I was the kid hiding under the covers with a pocket transistor radio, so my parents couldn’t hear, listening to the greats on CKLW and Keener 13, dreaming that one day I might be able to do that," he said. The dream of joining the ranks of radio icons came true for Johnson, allowing him to spend his entire career in his hometown, doing what he loved.

A Legacy Remembered

Tim Roberts, WOMC’s Vice President of Programming, praised Johnson. "Not only has Jim been a fixture in Detroit morning radio who woke us up to laughter every morning, but JJ was instrumental in the careers and launch of many of Detroit’s superstars," said Roberts. The impact Johnson left on Detroit radio will leave a lasting impression long after his departure.

Johnson’s farewell to the airwaves marks the close of an influential chapter in Detroit’s radio history, and thanks to Vuolo’s video, his final moments on-air can be witnessed by those who followed his journey over the years.

retirement, radio, video