Legendary KMET/L.A. Air Personality Mary Turner Dead at 76

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, May 15, 2023 | 4:25pm CT

Mary Turner

Legendary KMET/Los Angeles air personality Mary Turner has died. She was 76. Known as "The Burner' -- a moniker given to her by Peter Wolf of the J. Geils Band -- Turner died last Tuesday at her Beverly Hills home after a long battle with cancer. She captivated listeners with her distinctive voice, deep musical knowledge and engaging on-air presence. In addition to KMET, Turner had two syndicated programs on Westwood One, the company founded by late husband, Norman Pattiz, and she broadcast to troops in 40 countries through the Armed Forces Radio,

Turner's passion for music and radio broadcasting began early in her life. Growing up in Los Angeles, she was exposed to a rich tapestry of musical genres, which fueled her curiosity and inspired her love for the medium. After completing her education, Turner embarked on her journey in the radio industry. She moved to Los Angeles to join KMET in 1972 and was part of its evolution from an "underground" station to Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) format.

As an air personality, her immense knowledge of music, coupled with her distinctive voice and warm demeanor, made her an instant hit with listeners. She quickly became an integral part of the KMET family, helping the station solidify its position as a leading force in the Southern California music scene.

What truly set Turner apart was her ability to connect with her audience on a personal level. She understood the power of radio as a medium that brings people together and embraced her role as a companion to her listeners. Turner's genuine interest in her audience's lives, combined with her passion for music, created a unique bond that made listeners feel like they were tuning in to hear a trusted friend.

One of the defining features of Turner's on-air presence was her deep knowledge and appreciation of music. She had an uncanny ability to seamlessly blend different genres, introducing her audience to new sounds and artists they may have otherwise missed. Turner's playlist was diverse, ranging from Classic Rock to Blues, Reggae, Jazz and beyond. Her selections reflected her belief that music had the power to transcend boundaries and unite people.

While Mary Turner's impact was primarily felt through her work on KMET, her influence extended beyond the station. She played an active role in the local music community, attending concerts, promoting emerging artists, and even hosting live events. Turner's commitment to supporting musicians and fostering a vibrant music scene earned her the respect and admiration of many within the industry.

Turner's tenure at KMET spanned several decades, during which she became a beloved and iconic figure in Los Angeles radio. Her impact on the music community and the lives of her listeners cannot be overstated. Turner left the radio business in the early 1990s. After recovering from a substance abuse problem, she earned a doctorate in clinical psychology and became a certified drug and alcohol counselor.