Beasley Media Group Philadelphia paid tribute to Vice President and Market Manager Joe Bell with a surprise celebration in honor of the veteran radio executive’s 50th Anniversary in broadcasting. The lunchtime event took place on Friday, March 3rd at the company’s stations in Bala Cynwyd.
The ceremony included remarks from Chief Executive Officer Caroline Beasley and proclamations from the Philadelphia City Council and its mayor, the Honorable Jim Kenney, as well as the presentation of a custom gold record plaque and a “Joe Bell 50” Sixers Jersey from the 76ers by Vice President of Sales Paul Blake on behalf of the cluster.
The event concluded with a live performance by Big Machine Nashville Recording Artist Danielle Bradbery.
The Dayton, Ohio native became interested in a career in radio while attending Trotwood Madison High School. He graduated in 1973 from the local broadcast college where Bell learned all aspects of radio broadcasting. His early career was launched working at small stations in Indiana and Kentucky where he became interested in sales.
Bell has spent the past 25 years working at Beasley Media Group, initially in Fort Myers back in 1998, followed by Miami and now in Philadelphia. The Radio Ink ‘Radio Wayne Market Manager of the Year’ award winner has led his stations to three NAB Marconi awards, three Crystal Awards, and two Service to America awards, along with numerous nominations.
In addition, under his leadership, WMMR-FM Morning Personalities Preston and Steve have been inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame, legendary WMMR On Air Personality Pierre Robert and WMGK Morning man John DeBella have been elected to the Philadelphia Music Alliance’s Radio Row and WXTU Morning Show Host Andie Summers has won both a Gracie and a CMA.
“Joe and I have worked together for the last 25 years,” said President Bruce Beasley. “It’s been a privilege to see him grow and evolve in the industry over the years.”
“I got into the business because it looked like fun,” said Bell. “It was fun in 1973 and it’s still fun in 2023!”
