Pete Marier, a name synonymous with Montreal radio for decades, is affectionately known to many as “Bad Pete.” But how did this moniker come to be, and what’s the story behind one of the city’s most enduring radio figures? This in-depth look explores the journey of Pete Marier, from his early days captivated by radio waves to becoming the iconic “Bad Pete” of Montreal airwaves.
I. From West Island Roots to Radio Dreams
Pete Marier’s story begins in Montreal’s West Island, growing up in Pierrefonds and Dollard. His childhood was marked by the vibrant atmosphere of a city hitting its stride, especially during the era of Expo 67. Montreal in the 60s and 70s was a bustling metropolis, considered the economic and media hub of Canada, attracting talent from across the country and even the United States. This dynamic environment sparked a young Pete’s fascination with radio.
Alt text: Retro photograph of the Montreal skyline during Expo 67, showcasing the city’s growth and influence as a media hub.
His path to radio wasn’t a straight line through formal education. While he attended Dawson College, Pete admits his focus was more on the college radio station than classroom lectures. The pivotal moment came with a tour of CFOX Radio (the original 1470 AM), where witnessing broadcaster Dean Hugo in action ignited an undeniable passion. “Shit, that’s what I’m doing,” Pete recalls thinking, instantly captivated by the magic of live radio.
II. Northern Ontario Calling: Timmins and the Early Grind
Pete’s radio journey officially began in Timmins, Ontario, at 680 CKGB, “The Voice of Northern Ontario.” His starting salary was a modest $575 a month for a six-day-a-week, midnight-to-six shift. This baptism by fire in a smaller market proved to be an invaluable learning experience. He immersed himself in all facets of radio, from playing Barry Manilow records on the air to learning the technicalities of AM broadcasting, including manually adjusting the signal radius.
Timmins also offered unexpected encounters, including an early interview with a young Shania Twain, then aspiring to be a rock star. Pete quickly climbed the ranks at CKGB, becoming Music Director and Assistant Program Director, showcasing his dedication and aptitude for radio. He credits his early bosses in Timmins for their rigorous air checks and mentorship, shaping him into a disciplined and versatile broadcaster.
III. CKGM and FM96: Montreal Homecoming and Format Shifts
The pull of Montreal, and a timely call from his childhood friend Steve Anthony, brought Pete back to his hometown. Steve, then at CKGM, recommended Pete, leading to a position at the legendary 980 CKGM. This was a significant step up, moving from a small-market AC station to a major Montreal Top 40 powerhouse.
CKGM in the 70s was the dominant station in Montreal, known for personalities like Ralph Lockwood. Pete’s arrival marked his entry into the fast-paced world of Top 40 radio, a format that demanded energy and enthusiasm. After three years at CKGM, Pete transitioned to FM96, a move that signified another format shift – from AM Top 40 to FM Adult Contemporary.
FM96 required a different approach, emphasizing smoothness and a more mature delivery. Pete adapted, learning to “pour on the smoothness” and connect with a broader FM audience. Regulations at the time also mandated “content” or “enrichment” segments, pushing broadcasters to incorporate artist information, local history, or even recipes into their shows, adding another layer to his on-air persona.
IV. CHOM FM: Rock and Roll and the Birth of “Bad Pete”
The next major turning point in Pete’s career came with a move to CHOM FM, Montreal’s iconic rock station. In 1990, CHOM offered Pete the afternoon drive slot, a significant promotion and a return to his rock and roll roots. This era marked a crucial phase in Pete’s development, where he truly began to cultivate a personality-driven show.
Partnered with Andrew Carter, Pete unleashed his on-air creativity. “Pirate Peaks” and “Quiz the Whiz Radio Dictionary” became signature segments, showcasing their playful and often irreverent humor. It was during this period, around 1992, that the “Bad Pete” nickname emerged.
Alt text: A vintage television advertisement for Club l’Esprit, a Montreal nightclub referenced in the story of how Pete Marier got his “Bad Pete” nickname.
The moniker’s origin is a humorous anecdote involving a Halloween party at Club l’Esprit, a notorious Montreal nightclub, and Andrew Carter’s young daughter, Michelle. After a late night, a slightly worse-for-wear Pete crashed at Andrew’s place. The next morning, Michelle, barely able to talk, pointed at Pete and declared, “Bad Pete, bad Pete.” Andrew seized on the moment, christening him “Bad Pete” on air, and the name stuck.
V. Buried Alive and Morning Show Shifts
Pete’s time at CHOM was also characterized by audacious stunts. The most memorable was being “buried alive” in a block of ice for 48 hours as a promotional event for Fairview Toyota and the Missing Children’s Network. Despite initial claustrophobia, Pete endured the stunt, broadcasting from inside the ice cube, further solidifying his reputation for commitment and showmanship.
As CHOM navigated format changes and morning show transitions, Pete’s role evolved. Following John Derringer’s departure, Pete took over the morning show, initially alongside Andrew Carter and Sue Bell. However, this era also coincided with shifts in the rock music landscape. The rise of grunge and alternative rock challenged CHOM’s classic rock identity. Pete acknowledges that CHOM hesitated to fully embrace the grunge movement, potentially losing ground to competitors who were quicker to adapt.
VI. Howard Stern and Winnipeg Beckons
In a bold move to regain listenership, CHOM brought in Howard Stern. While Stern initially boosted ratings, his controversial style and lack of local focus proved unsustainable for Montreal. Pete remained in the morning show during the Stern experiment, witnessing firsthand the mixed reactions and eventual backlash.
Amidst these turbulent times at CHOM, an unexpected opportunity arose in Winnipeg. Chum Group offered Pete a chance to launch a new radio station, Bob FM, a Classic Hits format. Intrigued and flattered, Pete accepted, relocating to Winnipeg in 2002.
VII. Bob FM and a Heart Scare in the Prairies
Winnipeg and Bob FM marked a new chapter for “Bad Pete.” He became the morning host of a station that pioneered the Classic Hits format, playing 80s and 90s hits. The launch of Bob FM was a resounding success, fueled by a clever teaser campaign and a format that resonated with listeners. Pete fondly recalls the community spirit of Winnipeg and the station’s immediate impact.
However, his time in Winnipeg was also marked by a serious health scare. Experiencing chest pains, Pete was diagnosed with two severely clogged arteries. He underwent bypass surgery, a life-altering event that forced him to reassess his priorities and step back from the demanding morning show schedule.
Alt text: A recent photo of Pete Marier during a podcast recording, reflecting his enduring presence in radio and media.
While he returned to Bob FM in afternoon drive after recovering, the heart condition ultimately influenced his decision to return to Montreal. Family ties and a sense of home drew him back, despite the success and comfort he had found in Winnipeg.
VIII. Montreal Return and Enduring Legacy
Back in Montreal, Pete rejoined CHOM, initially in middays and then afternoon drive. He navigated further shifts at the station, including ownership changes as Standard Radio was acquired by Astral Media. Another stint in mornings followed, but ultimately, disagreements over pay led to his departure from CHOM for a period.
Pete’s career took him to other Montreal stations, including The Beat 92.5 and Boom 99.7 in Ottawa, before eventually returning to CHOM. Despite the ups and downs, “Bad Pete” remained a recognizable and beloved voice in Montreal radio.
Today, Pete Marier continues to be a fixture at CHOM, hosting swing shifts and filling in on mornings, proving his enduring appeal and passion for radio. From his early days in Timmins to becoming “Bad Pete” in Montreal, his journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and a genuine connection with his audience. Pete Marier’s story is not just a personal career trajectory; it’s intertwined with the evolution of Montreal radio itself.
IX. References
- Sound Off Podcast with Matt Cundill – Episode featuring Pete Marier.
- Fagstein Blog – Article on Pete Marier’s departure from Astral Media.
- Online radio archives and Montreal radio history resources (general background).
- Personal anecdotes and recollections from the interview transcript.
