Christian Radio Remembers Chris Chicago
Christian Radio is sharing memories of Chris Chicago. He was a true blessing to Christian Radio & Music… Rest in peace Chris!
Rajan Monroe NGEN/Houston – I used to listen to Chris Chicago’s shows on Soundcloud while I was driving a hotel shuttle van. It was his voice that helped me spark the idea of radio being a possibility. I valued his pioneering force in the CHH space and for always keeping things real. I loved his love for all things Disney, the value he put on his family, and most importantly his love for Jesus. He spoke things to me that helped changed my life and I will never forget his impact.
Tim McDermott former KSSJ/Houston – Chris worked for me twice at KSBJ. First Lightforce and then NGEN. He had such a passion to use music to reach the next generation for Christ. I really loved working with Chris. He was always so much fun and very encouraging. Plus he was so humble and teachable. He would often ask me for feedback on how he could get better. The last time I saw Chris was at a concert with his family. What a great time they had. I won’t forget seeing him hold his youngest son in his lap enjoying every song. I know Chris loved reaching people on the air for Christ but he loved more being a dad.
Suzanne Boase Honeycutt WMIT/Asheville – I’m gutted by the passing of my dear friend, Chris Chicago. When I started working at KSBJ/NGEN radio in 2017, he was one of the first to warmly welcome me to the team. For a little while, I did a weekly bit on the air with him, joking about the perils of being a step-parent. Whether we were nearly destroying the studio making slime or describing the horror of teaching a teen to drive, it was always fun and the highlight of my week. Chris was filled with joy. He was also a huge talent with the biggest heart who gave the best hugs. While we grieve, we also give praise that Chris is out of pain and in the presence of Jesus. I pray for Jess and their precious kids. Rest in peace, my friend.
Obadiah Haybin WayFM – I was sitting at a table feeling alone and discouraged a few years ago when Chris Chicago sat down to talk to me. We had known each other for years but we became friends that day. (“Let’s be real friends not radio friends,” we decided.) He encouraged me in a time when I needed it badly. His words meant so much to me that day that I wrote them down. Those were just the first of many words of encouragement and prayers that we shared. I mean, it wasn’t all Hallmark cards and sunshine. 
We traded conspiracy theories, laughed about what we were streaming, and played pool online. (I never beat him! He was ridiculously good at digital pool.) I’ll miss all those texts we traded working on breaks, afraid someone would figure out we were no good and fire us. Thanks for being my friend, Chris. I love you. I’ll miss you. I’ll see you again.
Steve Shore EMF – I knew of Chris for years and years but until he joined WayFM as a voicetracker, I didn’t really know him well. Once I started working with him though, he quickly became one of my favorite people. Always a good attitude, always a smile. Even once I left Way, we’d still text and I always looked forward to hearing from him. He was a great night talent, but outside of that, he was a great friend. I’ll miss our texts and occasionally getting to see each other for a hug. I’ll miss you Chris… until we meet again in the after.
Scott Herrold Hope Media Group – Chris was the kind of guy whose smile could light up a room. His joy was truly contagious. He’s always been an innovator as a media personality, but he was also a genuine catalyst in the growth of Christian hip hop. His fingerprints will continue to be seen in the Christian hip hop world for decades to come. We’re going to miss you Chris! You have influenced so many people through your radio shows and your relationships.
Matt Hahn Compassion – Where do I start… Chris was an amazing co-worker, leader, and friend that you could always count on! From our long lunch talks at CFA or Tin Roof to WayFm you were always a welcome smile with a positive attitude. I’ll never forget freezing our butts off in the middle of Idaho with the Men in Radio retreat growing closer to our Lord and Savior. I’ll miss you, my friend…but know you’ve heard those words, “WELL DONE! Thy good and faithful servant!”
Caleb Williams Clear Hits Radio – I met Chris Chicago because of my mentor, Carl Fletcher. When I told Carl about my passion for Christian Hip Hop, he connected me with Chris Chicago. Immediately, we hit it off. We only met in person 2 or 3 times, but we would share music and talk Christian Hip Hop radio constantly. Chris always made time to talk and pray. One of his last messages to me was that he was proud of me – and that meant the world to hear that. I looked at him like a big brother in this field, and I will miss his messages of encouragement and wisdom.
Morgan Smith KSBJ/Houston – Chris brought joy into every room he entered. 
Chris Hauser Hauser Promotions – There was a time Chris’ nickname was ‘C-Dub’ and that always stuck with me. I started working singles to him when he was at KLYT/Albuquerque and then at ‘The Hook’ (in Georgia – the call letters escape me at the moment). Then he moved to town and our relationship just kept growing and growing. Chris was a visionary and a true entrepreneur. Always trying something different. We playfully argued incessantly that his idea of Greatest Rock Band ever was Creed – while I argued on U2’s behalf. There are countless conversations and experiences over many years I am now recounting. My heart goes out to sweet Jess, their kids and all today who are so sad.
Bill Scott Vidare Creative – Chris was an amazing man. He worked with me years ago and hosting a syndicated show that was under my ministry called Sound of Light. I always love the fact that he came to men of the radio winter retreat. There’s not enough to say about Chris. He had a big heart and he loved God. His legacy will live on.
Joe Paulo Hope Media Group – What a one of a kind man… and what a kind man. He knew no strangers and loved Jesus and adored his precious family. I’m so going to miss Chris! I just know he’s already given Jesus one of those classic Chris Chicago bear hugs that only he could give. What a privilege to share some life and ministry with him.
John Butler Former Curb Records – I never met anyone quite like Chris Chicago. 1st time I spoke to him, I thought his last name was something he chose for the radio or he was in witness protection. Turned out both things weren’t true! The name was real and so was Chris. His heart was boundless. His willingness to love was his default. He was always a big kid, ready to punch life in the face and full of yes. When he hugged you (and that was mandatory) it was like getting mauled by the happiest bear on earth. When Chris mentioned he was coming to Nashville to live and work, I was scared for him. Not in a cynical way as if his soul would get crushed here, but more that he might lose his sense of wonder. That didn’t happen. In fact the opposite did.
He established trust and brought the brightest colors with him and they stuck on people. I was fortunate to see how he changed people’s hearts. His enthusiasm and energy were singular and magnetic. I loved knowing that he was someone that prayed for anyone and how disarming his personality was in work and life. How much he loved Christ and how much he loved me and my family.
Chris had a personal uniform that he wore all the time. I don’t think the man owned long pants! If you were close to Chris you may not have ever seen his head without a cap or some other covering. And when I asked him to be one of my best men at my wedding, I was just curious to see him in a tuxedo as I was and if he would make it on time! Chris is a forever friend. I am so fortunate that we spent so much life together with both our families starting at the same time. I loved work travel with Chris. Whether or not it was a radio promo tour or a quick trip here or there. He was up for adventure and there usually was a great story afterwards to share. It’s hard to imagine life without him here, so I’m praying deeply and without rest for his wonderful family, both personal, industry and radio. I know first hand how much he loves Jessica and the kids and how much his love for God was imprinted on them. They’ll carry his beautiful soul within each of them to listen, serve others and love them without condition as Chris did.
