Pierre Robert, the legendary voice of 93.3 WMMR in Philadelphia, died on October 29, 2025 at age 70. He was discovered at his home in Gladwyne, Pennsylvania. Robert transformed 44 years of radio into an institution.
Night Flight Plus Streams Cult Classics Cable Won’t Touch Anymore
Rotate Your Subscriptions Like This to Save $1,200 This Year
🔥 Quick Facts:
- Worked at WMMR for 44 years, from 1981 until his death in 2025.
- Hosted the midday show from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
- Known for his signature salutation “Greetings Citizens!” and hippie aesthetic.
- Inducted into the Philadelphia Music Alliance’s Walk of Fame in 2019.
- Co-founded Manna’s Pie in the Sky fundraiser, raising millions for hunger relief.
A Voice That Became an Institution
William Pierre Robert arrived in Philadelphia in 1981 driving a used 1970 Volkswagen microbus. His first broadcast changed radio forever. Robert came from San Francisco, where he’d worked at progressive rock pioneer KSAN-FM. He brought West Coast sensibility to East Coast listeners.
Change This One Setting to Fix Blurry Streaming Quality
7 Streaming Services Americans Don’t Know Exist (But Should)
Robert never rushed through a show. His listeners loved him for “Pierre Standard Time,” a running joke about late starts. He’d keep shows running past scheduled endpoints. Yet no one complained. His personality made WMMR the heart of Philadelphia’s music scene.
“He was a loyal friend. He didn’t care if you were the fad of the moment. He just cared.”
Starting at 26 years old, Robert spent more of his life on WMMR than anywhere else. Caroline Beasley, CEO of Beasley Media Group, called him irreplaceable. His influence transcended radio broadcasts.
The Details Behind His Legacy
Robert’s impact on Philadelphia’s music world remains incomparable. Consider these defining moments:
| Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Years at WMMR | 44 years of consecutive broadcasting from 1981 to 2025 |
| On-Air Schedule | Midday host 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday |
| Personality Traits | Vegetarian for 35+ years, known for “Greetings Citizens!” greeting |
| Career Highlights | Walk of Fame honor in 2019, signed contract extension in 2024 |
Robert refused to play certain artists. In 2002, Guns N’ Roses didn’t show up for a Philadelphia concert. Robert never played them again. He also boycotted Kid Rock, Ted Nugent, and Sebastian Bach for offensive statements.
His “No Play” list reflected his values. Robert believed music had power. Artists with extremist politics or disrespect for fans lost airtime. This stance earned him admiration from listeners.
His Role in Philadelphia’s Music Community
Robert championed local bands with unwavering dedication. Bon Jovi, Daryl Hall and John Oates, the Hooters, and Beru Revue received constant support. He pushed underground artists onto major playlists.
Most importantly, Robert helped those in need. He co-founded Manna’s Pie in the Sky, a fundraiser that raised millions for hunger relief. He supported animal rescue efforts and participated in the annual Philadelphia AIDS Walk.
His annual Christmas Eve marathon became legendary. Robert would play nearly 19 minutes of Arlo Guthrie’s “Alice’s Restaurant” multiple times during the holidays. He created traditions that Philly families still observe.
What The Music World Lost
Jon Bon Jovi wrote a lengthy tribute celebrating Robert’s humanity. Rush remembered him as “a passionate promoter” of their band. The entire Philadelphia music scene mourned simultaneously.
Other tributes poured in from the Offspring and countless local musicians. Everyone agreed: Robert cared genuinely about music. He wasn’t chasing trends. He loved musicians and wanted audiences to discover new artists.
The Xfinity Mobile Arena honored Robert by projecting his image on its sign before a Bryan Adams concert. “In Loving Memory,” the display read. The city grieved.
How Will Philly Radio Change Without Him?
Robert’s voice shaped an entire region’s musical taste. Young listeners discovered Led Zeppelin through him. Parents learned about new bands at home. His on-air chemistry created community.
WMMR’s management called him irreplaceable. His legacy transcends radio. He touched countless lives through music, humor, and genuine empathy. His influence on Philadelphia’s music scene will echo for decades.
Will another DJ capture his magic? The challenge seems impossible. Robert spent 44 years building trust with listeners. That credibility can’t be manufactured overnight.
Sources
- Rolling Stone – Obituary and concert venue tribute coverage
- Billy Penn – “10 Things You Should Know About Pierre Robert”
- New York Times – Announcement of death and career details
Similar posts:
- Pierre Robert Legend of 93.3 WMMR Dies at 70 After 44-Year Radio Career
- Harry Donahue, KYW Newsradio anchor for 35 years, dies at 77 after cancer battle
- Bon Jovi announces ‘Forever Tour’ 2026 after vocal cord surgery hiatus
- Jon Bon Jovi announces Forever Tour 2026 after vocal cord surgery recovery
- Jason Kelce Slams 76ers Over Controversial New Arena Plan on Philly Radio!
Daniel Harris is a specialist journalist focused on the crossroads of breaking news, extraordinary history, and enduring legends. With a background in historical research and storytelling, he blends timely reporting with timeless narratives, making complex events and ancient myths resonate with today’s readers. Daniel’s work often uncovers surprising links between present-day headlines and legendary tales, offering unique perspectives that captivate diverse audiences. Beyond reporting, he is passionate about preserving oral traditions and exploring how extraordinary stories continue to shape culture and identity.