Steve Dahl, a legendary figure in the world of radio, first made his mark on the Chicago airwaves in 1979 when he was lured away from Detroit by ABC-owned WDAI. Over the course of his two decades in the city, Dahl has built a reputation for being unafraid to share intimate details of both his professional and personal life with his listeners.
Throughout his career, Dahl has had the opportunity to work at several different radio stations in Chicago, including WLUP-FM (97.9, "The Loop"),WLUP-AM, WLS-AM (890) and -FM, and WCKG-FM (105.9). His unique style and irreverent humor have earned him a loyal following and national recognition as the elder statesman of Chicago radio.
One of Dahl's most famous stunts was the 1979 Disco Demolition, where he encouraged his listeners to bring their disco records to Comiskey Park and set them on fire. While the event may have cost the White Sox a game, it cemented Dahl's reputation as a bold and fearless radio personality.
In addition to his work on the radio, Dahl has also made a name for himself in television and music. He won a local Emmy in 1982 for his work on the TV special "Greetings From Graceland," which chronicled his tour of Elvis's estate. He has also appeared on several other TV shows, including "It's Too Early," "New Year's Steve and Garry," and "The Midnight Hour."
As a musician, Dahl has released several albums with his band, "The Dahlfins," and has even had a song appear on the album "Imagination" by his friend and former Beach Boy Brian Wilson. In 1993, Dahl and his radio partner of 15 years, Garry Meier, went their separate ways after experiencing creative differences.
In 1995, Dahl hit a personal and professional milestone when he decided to overcome his addiction to alcohol without the aid of self-help or support groups. This was just one of the many challenges he has faced over the years, and his determination to overcome them has inspired countless fans.
In recognition of his 20 years in Chicago, Dahl was honored with an anniversary party at the Museum of Broadcasting Communications in 1998. Illinois governor Jim Edgar even proclaimed the day "Steve Dahl Day" throughout the entire state. Steve and his wife Janet reside in the Western Suburbs with their three sons, Patrick, Mike, and Matt, as well as their two dogs, Chamois and Mabel.
