Matt Wardlaw

In 1984, a young Matt Wardlaw visited KWES-FM in Odessa, Texas: a mobile home that
housed both the station’s studios and offices. Not only did the DJ send him home with
a Sammy Hagar “I Can’t Drive 55” button, which Matt then wore proudly on his
Members Only jacket, but the experience sparked a life-long love of radio.
Matt continued honing his enthusiasm for all things music, including by clocking
countless hours inside record stores and reading the latest rock magazines. These
experiences helped fuel dreams of that future life working in music—and informed his
passionate approach to radio.
Now, Matt Wardlaw can say he has been working in radio for more than three
decades—a career that has included working at the legendary Cleveland rock and roll
powerhouse WMMS-FM. While working there, he also co-hosted a popular heavy metal
show, which gave him the chance to interview artists like Iron Maiden and Ronnie
James Dio.
A member of the Ultimate Classic Rock staff since it launched in 2010, Matt has
continued interviewing his rock and roll heroes— including memorable conversations
with Aerosmith, AC/DC, Pat Benatar, the Black Crowes, Alice Cooper, Def Leppard, ELO,
Heart, Sammy Hagar, KISS, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Metallica, Queen, REO Speedwagon, Van
Halen, and ZZ Top.
Today, as the host of Ultimate Classic Rock’s radio show, Matt brings the world of UCR
to you. Expect the latest news, interviews, and an endless supply of legendary rock
music — to ensure that your days and nights will never be boring.