John DeBella to be Inducted into Philadelphia Music Alliance Walk of Fame
The Philadelphia Music Alliance announced its first class of inductions into their “Walk of Fame” since before the Covid-19 pandemic, and MGK’s own John DeBella got the call.
The announcement took place on Tuesday afternoon at the Kimmel Center in Center City.
John DeBella
John DeBella helped popularize the “Morning Zoo format” when he first began in Philadelphia radio, and his career has continued for over 40 years in the market.
The John DeBella Show continues to lighten up the morning commute for listeners with a mix of news and comedy, the “Song Stories” segment, interviews with legends of the music world, exciting contests and giveaways, and of course their famous use of “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life” to lift the spirits of listeners heading into work.
He and producer Steve Vassalotti can create authentic bits from pretty much anything. They are a couple of friends going for a ride in the car together every morning.
DeBella recently celebrated 20 years at MGK. He has also worked as a stand-up comedian, a television co-host for the Mummers Parade, and a content creator for The National Lampoon Radio Hour.
“This is the greatest honor of my career. I couldn’t be happier,” he said about the induction.
Philadelphia Music Alliance- Walk of Fame
The Walk of Fame is “a must-see tourist attraction on Philadelphia’s dazzling Avenue of the Arts” as part of the effort from the Philadelphia Music Alliance to promote the cultural legacy of the city of Philadelphia.
It honors the rich local history, supports the current music scene, and mentors the next generation of music makers.
The 2023 inductions will also include Leslie Odom Jr., Governor Ed Rendell, the Bacon Brothers (Michael and Kevin), the Tymes, Patty Jackson, and James DePriest. Kenny Gamble, Leon Huff, and Thom Bell also received a special award.
Past inductions include timeless legends like Joan Jett (1996), Daryl Hall and John Oates (1993), Todd Rundgren (1989), and Jim Croce (1988).
Pierre Robert, DeBella’s close friend and host for our sister station 93.3 WMMR, was a member of the most recent class in 2019.
The Gala for the 2023 honorees will take place on April 20 at Vie at 600 N. Broad Street in Philadelphia. Tickets are available now online or by phone at 215-567-8000 (ext. 209).
Ask your smart speaker to play 102.9 MGK to listen to the John DeBella Show weekday mornings from 5:30am-9am.
