Kevin Woodson, Rodeo Announcer and Radio Icon, Dies Unexpectedly
*Kevin Woodson, a cherished voice in both the rodeo and radio worlds, passed away earlier this week at age 69. Known for his booming voice, cowboy charm, and mentorship, Woodson leaves behind a legacy that spans decades across airwaves and arenas.
His sister, actress Crystal Jenious, shared heartfelt words about the family’s loss. “Words can’t express the unspeakable grief of losing my oldest brother in the blink of an eye, unexpectedly. The hardest part about losing him is giving him back to God with grace. It’s like running back our dad’s passing all over again.”
She added, “Although our hearts are shattered into pieces, I thank God for sharing his heart, talent, and legendary voice with the world. As my niece Leah said, ‘Kevin never met a stranger.’”
Born for the Saddle: A Life Rooted in Rodeo
Kevin Woodson was born on October 11, 1956, in St. Louis, Missouri. His love for the rodeo started early—at just 2 years old during his first visit to a rodeo, he became captivated by the colorful chaos and heroics of rodeo clowns.
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Though he excelled in sports like baseball, football, and hockey, rodeo had his heart. He attended a bullfighting school at Archview Stables Arena in Belleville, Illinois, where he earned the chance to work alongside professional bullfighters.
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He eventually teamed up with Maurice File, and the duo became well-known lifesavers in Saturday night bull-riding shows, originally earning only 50 cents per bull. Woodson worked his way into open and pro-sanctioned rodeos across Missouri, Tennessee, Illinois, and Georgia, becoming a staple in the bullfighting and calf roping scenes.
The Voice Behind Cowboys of Color Rodeo
After retiring from bullfighting, Woodson remained a powerful presence in rodeo as the voice of the Cowboys of Color Rodeo Tour. The tour celebrates the contributions of African Americans, Latinos, and Native Americans to the Western frontier.
Woodson also shared his love for rodeo with his daughter, Leah, who competed in barrel racing from the age of 8 through college. At his ranch in Azle, Texas, he taught children and adults how to ride, always eager to pass on the cowboy lifestyle.
Woodson once said, “Radio fans are the most loyal fans of any group I know—except for rodeo fans.”
30+ Years in Radio: From Tom Joyner to Ricky Smiley
Kevin Woodson’s voice reached millions beyond the rodeo. He worked in radio for more than three decades, including stints on national shows like the Tom Joyner Morning Show, Doug Banks Morning Show, Ricky Smiley Morning Show, and more.
He hosted programs across the country, known for his smooth delivery, warm humor, and ability to connect with every listener like family. Woodson’s unmistakable voice made him a staple in Black radio and a trusted companion during morning commutes and late-night airwaves.
Even off the mic, Woodson inspired others. He regularly spoke to youth about passion, commitment, and cultural heritage. Whether speaking in classrooms or community events, he urged kids to find something they loved and give it their all.
Family and Legacy: “Kevin Never Met a Stranger”
Kevin’s family remembers him as a man of immense heart. His sister Crystal lives in Los Angeles and is known for her acting work. Another sister, Andrea Jenious, lives in Southern California and works as a special events planner.
His younger brother, Lionell Brian Jenious, is a Senior Cisco Engineer and studio musician. He is described as a “spitting image” of Kevin, continuing the family’s creative and technical talents.
Though Kevin Woodson is gone, his voice, teachings, and cowboy spirit will echo in the hearts of those who knew and admired him. From the roar of rodeo crowds to the quiet strength he shared with young riders, his legacy is one of passion, perseverance, and purpose.
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