KQRS/Minneapolis Signs Tom Barnard to Long-Term Extension

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, February 5, 2020

Tom Barnard

Cumulus has inked long-running KQRS Minneapolis morning show personality Tom Barnard to a multi-year contract extension. Barnard, a Minneapolis native, is one of the most popular morning show hosts in America and has been a fixture on KQRS since 1986. He was recognized for broadcasting excellence in 2006 with a Marconi Award for Large Market Personality of the Year and is known for his trademark humor and candor on a broad range of topics. Beginning his radio career in 1971, he has also enjoyed a successful voiceover career. In 2017, Barnard was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame and in 2018 entered the Pavek Museum, honoring Minnesota Broadcasters.

Brian Philips, Executive Vice President, Content and Audience, Cumulus Media said, "With pride and pleasure we celebrate the news that Tom will continue to broadcast from the place he most belongs, KQRS. Tom is the Twin Cities' hometown-born morning king, and Cumulus is immensely proud and protective of our long relationship with him."

Shelly Malecha Wilkes, Vice President/Market Manager, Cumulus Minneapolis, commented: "Tom Barnard is an amazing and legendary talent. We could not be happier to extend our agreement with him. Today is a very good day for KQRS."

"I'm so grateful to the listeners and advertisers for supporting the KQ Morning Show for the past 34 years," said Barnard. "Thanks to them, all my years as a morning host will be spent at the legendary KQRS. Thanks to Shelly for the support system she provides me. I'm so honored to continue to do what I love in my hometown. I can't ask for anything more."