This morning on WGN radio (Bob Sirott’s show), I learned of the death on January 9th of Big Jim Sykes. His unmistakable voice marks the loss of someone who used his radio professionalism to keep the spirit of Elvis Presley alive for millions of listeners. Through his work on the Elvis Channel on SiriusXM, Sykes didn’t just play music—he curated a living, breathing cultural legacy. He reminded audiences that Elvis wasn’t simply a figure of the past but a force that continues to shape American music and identity.
Elvis’ sound still pulses through rock, country, gospel, and pop. His influence echoes in new artists, in the stories we tell about American creativity, and in the way generations continue to discover him as if for the first time. Thanks to people like Big Jim Sykes, that legacy stays vibrant, accessible, and deeply woven into the fabric of American culture.
Even as we mourn Sykes’ passing, the music he championed remains as alive as ever—timeless, unmistakable, and essential.
Caffeinated Politics 
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