WHEREAS, Born William Pierre Robert on August 1st , 1955, in Truckee, California. His career started in radio at KSAN-FM in San Francisco, a pioneering rock station. During the 1970’s his music begin to captivate the Bay Area’s counterculture scene; and
WHEREAS, When KSAN changed its format, Pierre left the radio station in San Francisco and drove his Volkswagen van across the country, landing in Philadelphia in 1981. He eventually landed a gig in the music library of WMMR before graduating to DJing; and
WHEREAS, Pierre Robert
became known as the “Voice of Philadelphia Rock” as a radio DJ on 93.3 WMMR for 44 years, on the air from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Monday through Friday. His daily presence on the air showcased h
is profound love of music, his signature energy, unmistakable voice, self-deprecating humor and genuine connection with his audience; and
WHEREAS, He was known especially as an unwavering champion of hometown bands in Philadelphia, New Jersey, and the surrounding area, regardless of their level of fame. His playlists included locally grown artists like Bon Jovi, Bruce Springsteen, Hall & Oates, the Hooters, and his beloved Beru Revue; and
WHEREAS, In 2019, Pierre was inducted into the Philadelphia Music Walk of Fame for his long-standing career at WMMR. He was recognized for his significant influence and impact on the City’s music scene and for being a staple on Philadelphia radio for over 38 years; and
WHEREAS, Pierre Robert’s contributions extended far beyond entertainment his work fostered unity, nostalgia, and joy, reminding Philadelphians daily of the power of music and shared experience; and
WHEREAS, Beyond the airwaves, Pierre was a champion of community service, using his platform to support countless local charities, cultural events, and civic causes, exemplifying the spirit of giving back to the City he called home. He co-founded Manna’s Pie in the Sky fundraiser, which has raised millions of dollars for hunger relief in Philadelphia; and
WHEREAS, Pierre’s legacy includes his steadfast commitment to Philly’s LGBTQ+ community, especially its constant fight to support those living with HIV/AIDS, including as a longtime host and participant in the AIDS Walk. He used his professional position to educate and celebrate, while quietly supporting the LGBTQ+ community when it mattered; and
WHEREAS, Pierre Robert passed away on Wednesday, October 29th at the age of 70. Through his warm presence, authentic voice, and deep love for rock music, Pierre Robert became not only a DJ but a trusted friend and companion to generations of listeners, embodying the heart and soul of Philadelphia’s music scene and a national legend as a rock DJ. In recognition of his decades of passion, service to community in Philadelphia and to honor his memory as one of the City’s most cherished and enduring voices; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby honors and celebrates the life and legacy of Pierre Robert, a beloved and legendary Philadelphia WMMR Radio host and champion of Philadelphia's rock music scene.
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