I’ve met some wild, wacky people in my broadcasting career. And then there’s Danny Brown. Not wild and wacky, but kind, friendly, and positive. What an effective leader. Not in a stuffy way, not at all. Danny was the boss who would pop into the control room. Not to scold, but to encourage. He was a great audience. Always smiling, always laughing.
When you think of some of the great people and programming pumped out by the “Radio Ranch on Pineville Road,” (primarily KZ-106, WGOW-AM, GT-108, and Talk Radio FM), Danny’s fingerprints are all over it. Talented people wanted to work for Danny Brown. He’d give you just enough rope, and he knew exactly when to pump the brakes and reel you in when needed. Radio, and “radio people” in our town were greatly enhanced the moment he, his wife Susie, and their children moved to Chattanooga.
As he began to struggle with vascular dementia in his early 60s, our radio community began to see him less frequently. But the love we shared for him is everlasting. From the most controversial talk personalities to the most carefree deejays, everyone loved and respected Danny. He was heavily influenced by his mentor and predecessor, the late Don Newberg. I’m one of the lucky (and rare) radio people who can say they worked for two of the best to ever run a radio station.
We are better people if even a little bit of Danny Brown rubbed off on us. I can’t imagine a better role model when it came to raising a family, treating people fairly, and making each encounter a pleasure.
I’m comforted to know that during Danny’s difficult last years of health, he was surrounded by love. He will be remembered by the wonderful family and friends he leaves behind, and his unmatched love of life, his laughter, and his ever-present smile.
