With their funny jokes and lighthearted conversation, Jay Daniels and Kevin James are something like Spokane's goofy uncles — the kind of people you'd naturally gravitate toward at any large gathering. Whether discussing the best running scenes in movies or raising money for a charity event, the duo have become a fixture of Spokane-Coeur d'Alene residents' morning commute, for the past 30 years — and counting.
The charismatic pair are genuinely funny guys. Even off air, they joke and banter nonstop in their cozy studio inside KXLY's broadcasting hub on West Boone. All around them, Daniels and James' history together covers the studio walls, from framed memorabilia collected over the years to a poster of Gonzaga's current basketball roster.
Both hosts attribute their 30-year success to consistency, adaptability and creating a family-like bond with their listeners, who tune in between 6 and 10 am Monday through Friday.
"I think people can count on us for being there," Daniels says. "They also know that they can have their kids listen to the radio during our show. There's that trust factor that we're going to be a family show."
Daniels and James believe their loyal listenership goes deeper than humor — it's also about sticking together during tough times. Many listeners have shared with the radio hosts that they tune in to decompress or prepare when life gets challenging.
"The biggest compliment we get from listeners is when they say, 'Man, you guys have got me through some really hard times.'" James says.
On the flip side of the mic, that support gives the hosts purpose, too.
"I went through a divorce, Jay lost his dad, and it's like they help us through those moments, too," James adds.
Even with these deep community roots, Daniels and James are sometimes surprised at the longevity of their radio program. Still, they hope to stay on air for as long as they can.
"We kind of married this town a long time ago when we started this show," Daniels says. "It's hard to be in one community for 30 years in radio — that doesn't happen."
James is grateful for all the support, noting that while another 30 years is unlikely, the radio duo will continue teaming up as long as the people find their program worth tuning into.
"Let's take it 30 days at a time and then reassess each 30 days," he says, jokingly. "Thank you, and free cookies for everyone."
2nd PLACE: Electric Bender with AnT_EyE, KYRS
3rd PLACE: Jamie Patrick, 93.7 The Mountain
NORTH IDAHO'S BEST: Uncle Larry, KPND, Sandpoint
