The Enduring Legacy Of Ace And TJ: Remembering David 'Ace' Cannon

Miss Emely Leuschke DVM 24 Jul 2025

For many people across the Southern United States, the voices of ace and tj were more than just sounds coming from a radio; they were a familiar part of morning routines, a source of laughter, and a connection to something special. Their syndicated morning radio show, originating from Charlotte, North Carolina, truly captured the hearts of listeners for decades. It's almost as if they were inviting you into their very own living room each day, sharing stories and starting the morning with a particular kind of energy.

The "Ace & TJ Show" debuted on April 6, 1998, on Charlotte's WNKS (Kiss 95.1), setting the stage for what would become a radio institution. This show, you know, really carved out a unique spot, particularly resonating with people throughout the Southern states. It felt very much like a show crafted just for that specific audience, a true reflection of the region's character and humor.

Recently, the radio world, and indeed many loyal listeners, received some rather sad news. David "Ace" Cannon, a radio show host whose morning presence delighted people in the Southeast for over 30 years, passed away. His departure from the airwaves, followed by this somber announcement, marked a significant change for the "Ace & TJ Show," which had graced Charlotte airwaves from its beginning in 1998 until just last fall, so it's a very recent development for many.

Biography and Personal Stories
- David "Ace" Cannon: A Voice Remembered
- TJ: The Other Half of the Duo
The Ace & TJ Show: A Southern Radio Phenomenon
- From Humble Beginnings to Syndicated Success
- Connecting with the Southern Audience
- The Chemistry That Captivated Listeners
Beyond the Mic: Their Heartfelt Philanthropy
- Ace & TJ's Grin Kids: Spreading Joy
- Payton's Promise: A Personal Mission
A Time of Change: Departures and Legacies
- Ace's Farewell and the Unseen Reasons
- The Passing of a Radio Icon
- The Show's Continuing Journey

Biography and Personal Stories

David "Ace" Cannon: A Voice Remembered

David "Ace" Cannon, a name synonymous with morning radio in the South, truly left a lasting impression on countless listeners. His journey in radio was quite extensive, spanning three decades where his voice became a daily companion for so many. He was, in a way, a familiar friend who would join you for breakfast or on your commute, bringing a smile to your face with his distinct style and humor. He had a knack for connecting, you know, making each listener feel a part of the conversation.

Born David Ace Cannon, he was a radio DJ star who gained widespread recognition, particularly for his role on the "Ace & TJ Show." He lived in the Lake Norman area, a place many listeners could perhaps picture him enjoying life outside the studio. His presence on the radio was, for many, a very consistent and comforting part of their day. It's almost hard to imagine mornings without his voice.

Here are some personal details and bio data about David "Ace" Cannon:

Detail	Information
Full Name	David Ace Cannon
Known As	Ace
Profession	Radio Show Host, DJ
Years Active	Approximately 30 years in radio
Primary Show	The Ace & TJ Show
Show Debut (Charlotte)	April 6, 1998
Age at Passing	56
Location of Residence	Lake Norman area
Date of Passing	February 2025

TJ: The Other Half of the Duo

While much of the recent conversation has focused on Ace, TJ was, of course, the other vital half of the iconic "Ace & TJ Show." Together, they formed a dynamic pair whose personalities complemented each other in a way that truly resonated with their audience. TJ’s contributions to the show’s unique appeal and enduring popularity are undeniably significant. He helped shape the morning experience for so many people, day after day, year after year, and that's pretty remarkable.

The chemistry between Ace and TJ was, in a way, the very heart of the show. It was their banter, their shared stories, and their individual quirks that made listeners feel so connected. TJ, alongside Ace, cultivated a broadcast environment that was both entertaining and, you know, surprisingly intimate. Their combined presence created a distinct sound that listeners eagerly tuned in for each morning, and that's something very special in radio.

The Ace & TJ Show: A Southern Radio Phenomenon

From Humble Beginnings to Syndicated Success

The journey of the "Ace & TJ Show" began in Charlotte, North Carolina, on April 6, 1998, when it first aired on WNKS, also known as Kiss 95.1. This was the starting point for what would become a very significant force in Southern radio. Before landing in Charlotte, they had actually been at WZYP in Huntsville, Alabama, moving there in 1995. This early experience helped shape their approach, you know, as they prepared for the Charlotte market.

From its Charlotte base, the show grew to become a syndicated morning program, meaning its unique sound reached beyond just one city. It was mainly featured across the Southern United States, a region where its style and humor found a particularly warm reception. This expansion allowed their distinctive brand of morning radio to touch more lives, creating a wider community of listeners who woke up to their voices, which is pretty cool.

Connecting with the Southern Audience

One of the most remarkable aspects of the "Ace & TJ Show" was its deep connection with its target audience: Southerners. The show was, in a way, crafted to speak directly to the experiences, humor, and sensibilities of people living in this part of the country. This focus allowed them to build a truly loyal following, as listeners felt seen and understood by the hosts. It was more than just a radio program; it was a shared cultural touchstone for many, you know, across various states.

For more than 20 years, "the Ace & TJ Show" was a consistent fixture in Charlotte, North Carolina. They moved between stations, first on iHeartMedia CHR WHQC (96.1) and later on Beasley Media Group AC “K104.7” WKQC, but their presence remained strong. This consistency helped solidify their place in the hearts of listeners, creating a bond that lasted for a very long time, and that's quite an accomplishment in the world of radio.

The Chemistry That Captivated Listeners

The enduring appeal of the "Ace & TJ Show" really came down to the personalities of its hosts and crew. It wasn't just about the music or the news; it was about the lively banter, the genuine interactions, and the distinct characters that made up the show's team. Listeners wanted to learn about their backgrounds, their individual personalities, and even their hobbies, which just goes to show how deeply people connected with them. This kind of personal touch is very rare.

The show's ability to captivate listeners in the Southeast for three decades speaks volumes about the unique chemistry between Ace and TJ, and the contributions of their entire team. They created an environment where listeners felt like they were part of an extended family, sharing in the morning's conversations and laughs. This strong connection is, in some respects, what made them stand out in a crowded media landscape. They truly had a way of making you feel like you were right there with them.

Beyond the Mic: Their Heartfelt Philanthropy

Ace & TJ's Grin Kids: Spreading Joy

Beyond their engaging on-air presence, Ace and TJ extended their impact far into the community through their significant charity work. One of their most well-known initiatives was "Ace & TJ's Grin Kids." This charity, you know, became a very important part of their public identity, showcasing their dedication to helping others. It was a way for them to give back in a truly meaningful way, reaching out to those who needed it most.

The mission of "Ace & TJ's Grin Kids" was centered around bringing joy and support to children facing difficult circumstances. They operated this charity with a clear purpose: to make a positive difference in the lives of young people and their families. This commitment to philanthropy demonstrated a deeper layer to their public personas, showing that their influence went far beyond just entertaining listeners each morning. It was, in a way, a very heartwarming aspect of their work.

Payton's Promise: A Personal Mission

In 2020, Ace and TJ also created "Payton's Promise," a charity with a deeply personal connection for Ace. This initiative was established in honor of Ace's late daughter, who tragically died in a car accident that same year. This personal tragedy, you know, fueled a powerful desire to help others and prevent similar heartache. It's a very poignant example of turning personal pain into a force for good in the world.

"Payton's Promise" stands as a testament to Ace's love for his daughter and his commitment to her memory. It allowed him and TJ to channel their efforts into a cause that was incredibly meaningful to them, offering support and perhaps even solace to others affected by similar circumstances. This charity, in some respects, became another way for them to connect with their audience on a profoundly human level, sharing a part of their personal story while striving to make a difference.

A Time of Change: Departures and Legacies

Ace's Farewell and the Unseen Reasons

The "Ace & TJ Show" experienced a significant shift last fall when David "Ace" Cannon departed from the program. The show announced his departure in September 2024, a moment that undoubtedly caught many loyal listeners by surprise. What was particularly striking, you know, was that the announcement did not reveal the reason for his exit or provide any details about his health status. This left many wondering about the circumstances behind such a sudden change.

David "Ace" Cannon had been a fixture on Charlotte radio, specifically on Hits 96.1 FM, when he suddenly left the "Ace & TJ Show" in September. This unannounced departure from the airwaves, after so many years, was a very noticeable event for those who tuned in regularly. It was a moment of uncertainty for the show's future, and for the fans who had grown accustomed to his voice being a constant presence in their mornings.

The Passing of a Radio Icon

Months after his exit from the "Ace and TJ Show," David "Ace" Cannon, the popular radio host in the South, passed away in February 2025. His sister, Piper Wilson, shared the sad news on social media, asking for prayers for her family. "Please keep my family in your prayers as my brother, David Ace Cannon passed away today," she wrote. This announcement brought a wave of sadness to those who had followed his career for so long, and it's a very recent event for many.

Former "Ace & TJ Show" host David 'Ace' Cannon passed away on Tuesday at the age of 56. The cause of death was not immediately known, which, you know, added to the somber nature of the news for many who admired him. His death marked the end of an era for a radio personality whose voice had been a comforting and entertaining presence in countless Southern homes and cars for three decades. It's a very significant loss for the radio community and his listeners.

The Show's Continuing Journey

Despite the profound changes, including Ace's departure and subsequent passing, the radio show that listeners know has continued, albeit in a new form. The text mentions the "TJ & Riggins Showmedia center," suggesting that TJ has continued on with a new co-host, Riggins. This represents a new chapter for the program that originated as the "Ace & TJ Show," carrying forward a legacy of morning entertainment. It's almost like a new iteration of a familiar friend, you know, still bringing that morning energy.

The careers of Ace and TJ, as popular radio hosts, have certainly faced significant changes, particularly in recent times. Their journey, from their early days to syndication, their philanthropic efforts, and the recent shifts, tells a story of adaptability and enduring connection with their audience. While Ace's voice may no longer be on the air, the impact he and TJ had together, and the work they did, continues to resonate with many, and that's a pretty powerful thing to consider.

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The Enduring Legacy Of Ace And TJ: Remembering David 'Ace' Cannon

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