![\"Richard](\"https:\/\/blogarchive.utc.edu\/news\/files\/2025\/05\/Richard-Winham.jpg\")
Richard Winham has been a member of the WUTC on-air team since 1987. Photo by Angela Foster.<\/p><\/div>\n
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The public is invited to celebrate the Chattanooga radio icon at a June 22 benefit concert<\/h4>\n
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After nearly four decades of shaping the sound and soul of public radio in Chattanooga, WUTC-FM host Richard Winham will retire this summer.<\/p>\n
Winham has been a mainstay on the WUTC airwaves since 1987, championing local artists and serving as a guiding force behind the station\u2019s identity and programming. Known for his warmth, curiosity and deep love of music, he has hosted thousands of hours of programming, launched the station\u2019s first freeform music show and mentored generations of student DJs.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe art of living, according to the philosopher, is to find your work; thanks to you, our listeners, I have\u2014and for that I will always be more grateful than I could express in words,\u201d Winham said.<\/p>\n
To honor his extraordinary legacy, WUTC will host a public benefit concert from 1-5 p.m. on Sunday, June 22, at Barrelhouse Ballroom, located at 1501 Long St. in downtown Chattanooga. The all-ages, family-friendly event will feature performances by local folk, blues and bluegrass artists, with a limited pre-show meet-and-greet with artists and station staff from noon to 12:45 p.m.<\/p>\n
The benefit concert is also a fundraising event, with proceeds helping sustain WUTC\u2019s ongoing mission to support music, arts and cultural programming in the Tennessee Valley\u2014work inspired by Winham\u2019s legacy.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor decades, Richard Winham has been the heart and soul of WUTC and one of the most influential voices in Chattanooga radio,\u201d said Susan Lazenby, station manager at WUTC. \u201cHe\u2019s more than a host: he\u2019s a mentor, a guide and a tireless advocate for local artists.<\/p>\n
\u201cRichard has interviewed countless bands, writers, community leaders and University voices, always with a focus on strengthening Chattanooga\u2019s music community and engaging UTC students. Chattanooga simply wouldn\u2019t be the same without him, and we\u2019re proud to have had him as a vital part of the WUTC family for 38 years.\u201d<\/p>\n
Headlining the June 22 concert are The New Quintet and Randy Steele and the High Cold Wind, with special guest performances from Wayne White and Username Password, Rick Rushing, Jhett Black, Swayyvo, Alex The Band, members of Strung Like A Horse, members of Call Me Spinster, Danimal, BEMI, Emily Kate Boyd and more.<\/p>\n
The limited pre-show meet-and-greet will include drinks, light hors d\u2019oeuvres and a limited-edition concert poster.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile it\u2019s hard to say goodbye, we are looking forward to carrying forward the spirit of Richard\u2019s work at WUTC,\u201d Lazenby said. \u201cThis WUTC benefit concert will not only be a chance to honor his extraordinary contributions but also to continue his mission of supporting the thriving creative community that makes Chattanooga such a special place.\u201d<\/p>\n
For media inquiries or to request an interview with Winham, contact Brent Stott, account manager for partnerships, at brent-stott@utc.edu or 423-425-5132. Tickets can be purchased here.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n