Kermit Crockett is a Saginaw, Michigan legend who once fostered some of the greatest musicians of all genres to walk this earth.
During his time as a concert promoter, the Chicago native was blessed with the opportunity to witness both the late James Brown and Prince, MC Hammer, Jackson 5, Diana Ross and others perform.
However, Kermit spoke with us about his experiences in radio and how he overcame a lot of challenges.
“I did have 29 years though and 29 years at WTLZ (KISS 107.1). A lot of hard work to tell you the truth, a lot of perseverance and a lot of love for the job. That’s the reason for my longevity. I worked with a lot of good people. I was the program director and operations manager for many of those years so I’m a blessed man.”
Kermit’s journey to radio started as a teenager gaining inspiration from his brother. Kermit was a business major and eventually shifted from emulating his brother’s vision to finding his own path with radio.
“Around 17-years-old all of a sudden…I became interested in music so I would listen to radio. I heard this announcer Joe Cobb in Chicago (WVON)…he was great and sounded like he really was enjoying his job.”
The stepping-stone opportunity that opened the door to Kermit’s career was a commercial he heard on the radio station. Kermit’s father decided to pay $700-$800 for the Career Academy which was a broadcasting school. Once graduating, Kermit took his talents to Saginaw not knowing he would pioneer the airwaves with his voice.
Without the love for music running through Kermit’s veins, it wouldn’t be possible if his beautiful and multi-talented daughter Kiara Crockett didn’t love and support him during his time in radio.
“I feel just honored and it’s a blessing to hear my dad voice on the radio. Hearing well known artists like Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson and my biggest influence with music is Mary J. Blige, Prince and Beyonce. When it comes to the rap stuff…It’s Jay Z,” Kiara said while smiling.
Kiara is immersed in the history of music through her dad and she had the opportunity during her childhood to meet the late Princess of R&B Aaliyah. She shared her amazing early-life experiences such as the Annual Family Affair which was an event at the famous Ojibway Island. Kiara loved seeing her community of Saginaw bond in the 1990s’ and witnessed plenty of greatness.
“I feel like my dad paved the way for a lot of radio personalities now. It’s just awesome to meet well known artists too…like I said I told you I met Aaliyah when she came out with “One in a Million” back in 97. So that was something that’ll be a part of the rest of my life.”
Family Affair was an event in July where public figures like 112, Jagged Edge, rapper Domino and others stepped foot in the city to perform their best hits.
Talent is everything from vocals and Kermit broke down the difference between skill and looks to get your foot in the door.
“We had a conversation in church Sunday and I pointed out that shows like The Voice and American Idol are so important,” Kermit said.
“The industry is look-dripping…whereas those shows are just concentrating on the talent. You become marketable after you win those shows or go down the road because America already know who you are. So it’s not the look that’s not important it’s the talent.”
There’s a love for both generations and the Daddy-daughter bond broke off into opinions of eras with their favorite music. Kiara told us how the 1990s’ was the greatest time with music in contrast to Kermit’s 1960s’ Motown vibe. What is true for both eras unlike today’s music are men and women back then would sing from their hearts with a powerful message.
Who wouldn’t want to see a Crockett family ‘VERZUZ’ battle where Kiara and Kermit have a 90s’ vs. 60s’ playlist? Whoever plays the late Prince first might be decided as the winner with his legendary catalog.
It’s roses for many people and Kermit is worthy of everyone due to his success and legacy from the Windy City to a city reshaping its identity.
Music will live through Kermit and as long as it’s positive due to his taste…he’s okay with it.
Flip the pages for the Black History lesson interview segments of Kermit’s journey & Kiara’s support.
