About

Duke built Midwest Communications into one of the largest privately held, family-operated radio broadcasting companies in the United States, with over eighty radio stations in nine states.

Duke was known for his passion for live, local radio and his high-quality standards. He was inducted into the The Wisconsin Broadcasters Hall of Fame in October 1989, the Wisconsin Polka Hall of Fame, and the Wisconsin Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The latter for his recording of the first rock & roll record in Wisconsin, “Rock & Roll Saddles” on Duke’s Northland Record label. Duke’s other accolades included receiving the Conclave Rockwell Lifetime Award, in July 2016, and being on Radio Ink’s 40 Most Powerful People in Radio for numerous years.

Duke Wright passed on December 21, 2022, at the age of 83. His legacy and philosophies continue as he lived, always offering “the best quality and service” and bringing out the best in everyone.