Philadelphia radio personality Gene Shay has long since made his mark on the folk music scene – and on Thursday, Oct 24, the Philadelphia Music Alliance will honor him as he is inducted into the Philly Music Walk of Fame.

Gene has produced weekly folk radio shows since 1962, and has been a Sunday night fixture at WXPN, a non-commercial, member-supported radio service out of the University of Pennsylvania, for more than 20 years. He helped found the annual Philadelphia Folk Festival, and has served as the concert emcee for all of its 52 years. Gene was the first to bring Bob Dylan to Philadelphia in 1963. He has been called “the dean of American folk DJs” by the Philadelphia Daily News, and “the godfather of American folk” by the Philadelphia Inquirer. These are only a few of his many accomplishments, as 78-year-old icon has advocated, supported and taken a leading role in expanding the listening horizon for folk music as his life’s work. (He’s been a member of the board here at Sing Out! for nearly two decades!)

The Philadelphia Music Alliance is a community-based, not-for-profit organization whose goals are geared toward preserving and promoting Philadelphia’s music history. The Walk of Fame is an annual event through the legacies of past and current individuals who have enriched the Philadelphia musical scene, filled with 106 awarded bronze plaques.

Gene’s recognition is more than well deserved. The Walk of Fame is one of the city’s most culturally interesting attractions, where his name will be listed among others who have profoundly contributed to the musical legacy of Philadelphia. The ceremony will begin at noon on Oct 24 in front of the Doubletree Hotel, 237 South Broad St., just after a press conference at 11 a.m. It is free and open to the public.

— Elissa Miolene