Dick Biondi (1932–2023) was a pioneering Chicago radio DJ renowned for his energetic and influential presence on the airwaves. Born on September 13, 1932, Biondi initially aspired to be a sportscaster, beginning his broadcasting career in 1950 at WCBA in New York. He soon transitioned to music, working at various stations across the United States, including KSYL in Alexandria, Louisiana, and stations in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New York.

Biondi's career reached iconic status when he joined WLS in Chicago in 1960. Known as "The Screamer" for his high-energy style, he played Elvis Presley's "Teddy Bear" as his first song on the station. He became the first DJ to play the Beatles on U.S. radio in 1963 with "Please Please Me." Despite leaving WLS in 1963 for KRLA in Los Angeles, where he helped stage concerts for the Beatles and the Rolling Stones, Biondi returned to Chicago in 1967, working at WCFL and later WMAQ.

His longest tenure was at WJMK, Magic FM, where he played oldies from 1984 until 2005. Biondi's dynamic personality and dedication to rock and roll earned him a place in the Radio Hall of Fame and an exhibit at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Known for his fast-paced patter and nicknames like "The Wild I-tralian," Biondi was celebrated as one of the all-time great Top 40 disc jockeys. He passed away on June 26, 2023, at the age of 90, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of radio broadcasting.