Ruh Roh! Casey Kasem departs Top 40
The voice that launched thousands of weekly "American Top 40" radio shows is cutting back -- to Top 20. Casey Kasem, who also was the voice of Shaggy (on Scooby-Do) and countless other cartoon characters, has passed the Top 40 microphone to Ryan Seacrest. The "Dick Clark of radio" will continue with a smaller show and different radio formats.

When Kasem's Top 40 show debuted on July 4, 1970, the #1 song was Three Dog Night's "Mama Told Me (Not to Come)," penned by Randy Newman. In his final week, the top slot was Outkast's "Hey Ya!" Through over 30 years of change in musical styles, Kasem's distinctive voice has been unfailingly positive and professional.

A recent profile in the New York Times credits Kasem's approach -- never judgmental or gossipy, always serious and straightforward -- with his longevity on the air. They also note his consistency; his final broadcast ended with the same closing he has used for 34 years: "And don't forget, keep your feet on the ground and keep reaching for the stars."

Read about Casey Kasem at the Radio Hall of Fame or the National Broadcasters Hall of Fame (which includes an extensive listing of his cartoon voice credits)

Read the Jan. 24, 2004 New York Times profile [fee required], or free at MusicForum.com)

Read an ABC News article about Kasem's retirement

Visit Kasem's new Top 20 Show at Premiere Radio Networks