Kevin Diers Seattle, Washington, Obituary, Death: Seattle’s rock music community is mourning the loss of Kevin Diers, a beloved radio host at KISW who passed away unexpectedly. The station announced the heartbreaking news on May 8, noting that no further details regarding the cause of his death were available at the time. Diers, who was widely respected for his passion for music and his unwavering support of local artists, was remembered as more than just a radio personality—he was a friend, a colleague, and a vital part of Seattle’s cultural fabric.
KISW issued a heartfelt tribute, stating, “We all lost a dear friend.” A spokesperson added, “We lost a member of the family this week,” capturing the emotional impact of his passing on those who worked with him and listened to him over the years. Diers had become a familiar and trusted voice in the city’s rock scene, earning admiration for his deep knowledge of metal music and his enthusiastic promotion of the Pacific Northwest’s music community.
Originally from North Carolina, Diers found his way into Seattle’s radio landscape in a rather unconventional way—by winning a competition to co-host KISW’s “Metal Shop” show alongside Ian Reas. His talent and dedication quickly became apparent, and he rose to prominence within the station. Eventually, he became the host of the popular program “Loud & Local,” where he championed Seattle-based artists and gave a platform to emerging musicians trying to find their audience.
Diers wasn’t just a voice on the air; he was a passionate advocate for the genres and communities he loved. His enthusiasm for metal music, punk rock, and professional wrestling resonated with fans across the region. Listeners knew him as someone who genuinely cared about the artists he featured and the fans who tuned in. Whether he was introducing a new track from a local band or discussing the latest in wrestling, Diers brought sincerity and excitement to every broadcast.
The loss of Kevin Diers leaves a profound void at KISW and in Seattle’s broader music scene. Friends and colleagues have described him as generous, warm, and endlessly enthusiastic about the things he loved. Musicians, fans, and fellow broadcasters have already begun sharing memories and tributes online, highlighting the impact Diers had not just as a host, but as a supporter and friend to many.
While the circumstances of his death remain private, the legacy Kevin Diers leaves behind is unmistakable. He helped shape the voice of rock radio in Seattle, supported countless local artists, and built lasting relationships with fans and peers alike. His presence on the airwaves will be deeply missed, but his contributions to Seattle’s music community will not be forgotten.
