Tributes To Detroit DJ, Russ Gibb, Known For 'Paul Is Dead', Passes At 87
DETROIT (CBS Detroit/ AP) - Russ Gibb, a Detroit-area rock promoter, radio DJ, teacher and pop culture provocateur, has died at 87.
The world just got dimmer. Russ Gibb was a DJ, a promoter, and most importantly a teacher. Everywhere I am in my life is from the days spent in the studio with Uncle Russ learning about broadcast and the world in general. Truly devastating. Rest In Peace Gibb. pic.twitter.com/GBP9E33SI5
— Rob Talbert (@Rob_Talbert) May 1, 2019
Andy Fradkin, Gibb's former student and power of attorney, said Gibb died Tuesday of heart failure at a Garden City hospital.
Fradkin says the longtime Dearborn resident suffered from health problems for several years.
My dear old friend Russ Gibb has departed this earth. He will be sorely missed. He was one of a kind. w.
— Wayne Kramer (@waynekramer) May 1, 2019
Gibb leased Detroit's former Grande Ballroom and gave Iggy Pop and the Stooges their first major show in 1968, and provided a venue for such major players as Led Zeppelin, Cream, The Who and the Grateful Dead.
One of his best known gambits was as a DJ in 1969, when he entertained rumors about the supposed death of Beatle Paul McCartney.
R.I.P. Uncle Russ - Russ Gibb - He was instrumental in shaping the Detroit musical landscape back in the day - Whether it was his founding and running Grande Ballroom, being on the air (WKNR), or helping mold minds teaching video and media production. Much thanks! pic.twitter.com/Q4qpM3ugPs
— Willy Wilson (@WillyWilsonDet) May 1, 2019
Discussion about the hoax lit up WKNR's airwaves and helped propel the underground conspiracy into a global phenomenon.
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