SiriusXM channel Willie’s Roadhouse will pay respects to longtime host Wade Jessen, Billboard‘s Nashville-based senior chart manager, who passed away Thursday.
Wade Jessen, Billboard Senior Chart Manager, Dies at Age 53
The satellite broadcaster will mourn his loss with a special tribute during his Rear View program celebrating his vast knowledge and passion for country music history, airing Friday night (March 6) from 6 to 9 p.m. ET and Sunday 9 p.m. to midnight ET on Willie’s Roadhouse (channel 59).
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“We are deeply saddened [about] the passing of Wade Jessen, a beloved member of our family,” Willie’s Roadhouse posted on its Facebook page Thursday. “Farewell Wade, we’ll miss your friendly voice and deep love and knowledge of country music history.
“Our deepest condolences go out to Wade’s family and loved ones.”
In addition to countless industry colleagues, tributes from some of Nashville’s biggest country stars have poured in since Thursday morning, including touching posts from Dierks Bentley, Toby Keith, Reba McEntire, the Oak Ridge Boys and Josh Turner.
“In a state of shock from finding that country music’s Wade Jessen passed,” Turner wrote on Twitter. “Wade, you will be missed!!”
“What a great guy he was,” McEntire posted on Instagram. “My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. Rest in peace Wade.”
Wrote Keith, “RIP Wade Jessen…you were a friend as well as a very well respected industry voice…you’ll be missed as we pray for your family – T.”
RIP Wade Jessen…you were a friend and a well respected industry voice…you’ll be missed as we pray for your family – T pic.twitter.com/wdjj6Pb7rz
— Toby Keith (@TobyKeithMusic) March 5, 2015