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Legendary Buffalo radio DJ Jim Santella dies at 86

Jim Santella, a famous DJ whose velvety voice was heard on Buffalo radio in a variety of formats for more than 40 years, died Friday at his home in Amherst. He was 86 years old.

Starting at the University at Buffalo radio station WBFO-FM, as a student he played progressive rock on WYSL-FM, country music on WWOL, helped launch the 97 Rock format, served as program director at WUWU-FM and played jazz. on WEBR.

He also wrote music and theater reviews for The Buffalo News and, with Anthony Chase, launched the radio program “Theater Talk” in 1992.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete.