Walter “Q Bear” Banks
KMOJ Host
For nearly 45 years KMOJ (89.9 FM) radio listeners have become accustomed to the booming, gregarious voice “coming through your speakers live,” that of Walter “Q Bear” Banks, Jr.
Banks was there from the beginning of the Minneapolis Sound and is responsible for helping to break then-local artists that are now household names and international superstars. Prince, Morris Day, The Time, Mint Condition, Next and more can credit Banks and KMOJ for helping to propel their careers.
For his contributions to music and community, in 2020 Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey declared Feb. 17 Walter “Q Bear” Banks, Jr. Day.