This week, KISW and the entire Seattle music community mourn the loss of one of our own. Kevin Diers, a cherished member of the KISW family, has passed away—leaving behind a void that can never truly be filled. His departure is not only a heartbreaking moment for those who knew him personally, but also a somber turning point for the Pacific Northwest’s tight-knit music scene. Kevin was more than just a radio host—he was a passionate advocate for heavy music, a mentor to rising artists, a loyal friend, and a deeply respected voice that helped shape the region’s sonic identity.

From the moment he joined KISW, Kevin brought with him an energy that was impossible to ignore. His enthusiasm for rock and metal—particularly the heavier, grittier edges of the genre—resonated through every word he spoke on-air. Listeners didn’t just hear a DJ; they heard a fellow fan, someone who lived and breathed the music as deeply as they did. Kevin had an encyclopedic knowledge of the local music scene, and his support of emerging artists helped countless bands get their first real exposure. For many musicians in Seattle, Kevin was the one who gave them their first radio spin, their first interview, or their first moment of recognition.

But Kevin’s influence extended far beyond the studio walls. He was a fixture at local shows—often standing front and center, headbanging along with the crowd, always ready to strike up a conversation with fans, musicians, or fellow industry folks. He didn’t just cover the music; he lived it. His work on Loud & Local, KISW’s dedicated showcase for regional talent, became a Sunday night ritual for thousands, a place where underground artists could thrive and where listeners could find something new, raw, and real. Kevin made sure that Seattle’s heavy music scene remained vibrant and visible, even in a rapidly changing media landscape.

Colleagues at KISW speak of Kevin not only as a consummate professional, but as a kind and generous spirit—someone who lifted up everyone around him. He was known for his sharp wit, his unwavering dedication to the craft, and a heart as massive as the sound he loved. Whether he was producing behind the scenes, spinning records on-air, or connecting directly with fans, Kevin gave his all. His legacy isn’t just in the music he played—it’s in the people he inspired, the artists he elevated, and the culture he helped foster.

As we process this profound loss, our thoughts are with Kevin’s family, friends, and the countless lives he touched through his work and his warmth. Seattle’s music community has lost a true champion, and KISW has lost a beloved brother. But Kevin Diers’ voice—both literally and figuratively—will echo on through the bands he supported, the friendships he nurtured, and the fierce, undying love he had for the scene he called home.

Rest easy, Kevin. Thank you for everything. The music lives on because of you.