Charlie Bush

Inducted 2009

With one of broadcasting’s most distinctive voices and an outrageous sense of humor, Charlie Bush used his glibness of tongue and sharp wit early on when he won a national debate at West Point for his alma mater, the University of Wisconsin at Eau Claire, in 1959. To finance his education he became a radio personality at WAXX radio in Wisconsin.  Enamored with broadcasting, he came to KSTP four years later.  He did his famous brand of morning news when teamed with Chuck Knapp on Knapp & Bush.  He emceed a TV talent show called Stairway to Stardom, had an all-night radio talk show, and hosted a late-night TV program called Charlie Horse, the show that “pulled your leg ever so slightly.”  In 1981 he went to WCCO-FM and a year later to WDGY.  From 1983 to 1991 he was a K102 personality, delighting listeners with John Hines on Hines & Bush. 

Charlie’s resonant voice and hearty laugh made him a natural for radio, and his adept, quick-witted wordplay made him a listener favorite.  Filled with rhymes and alliteration, his “news kickers” were unforgettable.  “They aren’t good, but they’re quick,” he would quip.  The kindhearted Charlie Bush passed away on October 30, 1991.