An era is coming to an end: On Monday, Nov. 2, Kool DJ Red Alert announced his plans to retire from his radio career. The renowned hip-hop legend, who currently has gigs at WBLS 107.5 and Hot 97, will be signing off for the final time on Nov. 30, preceded by an all-star farewell gala on Nov. 24.
Red Alert made the announcement via a video post on his social media accounts. “I stand before you to announce that I’m saying farewell to radio,” Red Alert said, thanking the listeners and his former co-workers. “It has been an honor in my life to share the airways with the community for over four decades.”
The music legend also disclosed that he is capping off his retirement with a music gala at Sony Music Hall in Manhattan on Nov. 24. Although the gala was initially announced in July to celebrate Red Alert’s 70th birthday, Nov. 27, the digital flyers are now updated to include his retirement for the occasion.
Grammy-winning music producer Teddy Riley is set to serve as co-host of the gala. The festivities will include an all-star list of DJ performances, including DJ Jazzy Jeff, Kid Capri, DJ Spinna, and Rashad “Ringo” Smith. The announcement also promises performances from special surprise guests.
While Red Alert is closing this chapter of his illustrious career, he states he still has more work to do elsewhere. “Although I am stepping away from radio, my passion for music and entertainment remains strong,” Red Alert continued in his video post. “I will continue to bring the sounds, the energy, and the vibe to the people through DJing special events, and community celebrations.”
Red Alert, whose real name is Fred Crute, has been a professional DJ for 50 years. Recognized as a pillar from the dawn of hip-hop culture, he has held stints with nearly every major radio network in New York City. Red Alert began his radio career in 1983, DJing for 98.7 Kiss FM in New York City. It was during his stint with Kiss-FM where he gave hip-hop a platform and radio home in a time when rap was still seen as just a passing fad. Red Alert broke several records on radio, introducing the world to many hip-hop heavyweights, from A Tribe Called Quest to Queen Latifah. From 1994 to 2001, he mixed on Hot 97 for “The Five O’Clock Free Ride” as well as “The Twelve O’Clock Old School At Noon.” Since 2012, he’s been working at WBLS 107.5.
Tickets to “The Red Alert Experience Gala” can be purchased at sonyhall.com. General admission tickets are $50 and V.I.P. tickets are $150. The gala will enforce a black formal attire dress code for all attendees.
