Ray Appleton Biography

Ray Appleton Profile Photo

Ray began his radio career in Fresno in 1969. That career has taken him from Fresno to London and back. He has been a part of the KMJ team since 1987 and continues to share his thoughts and viewpoints with his very large and loyal audience.  (His first day on KMJ coincided with the stock market crash known as “Black Monday”.)

The biggest & most prominent guests have made regular appearances on Ray’s program over the decades, including: Pres. Donald Trump, Pres. G.W. Bush, Pres. Bill Clinton, Pres. G.H.W. Bush, Gov. Jerry Brown, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, Gov. Pete Wilson, Gov. George Deukmejian…even infamous characters like Charles Manson and Richard Simmons.

You can hear Ray weekdays from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM on 580AM/105.9FM KMJ.

A renowned world traveler, Ray has broadcast his show over the years from destinations like England, Russia, Italy, Israel, Turkey and Egypt.

Ray is not just a talking head.  He’s also an actor and musician.

He been busy recently playing bass for The Appletones and opening for big acts like The Beach Boys, Joan Jett and Y&T.  Click link to listen to some B-Side magic.

He also occasionally performs with the “Sons of the San Joaquin” and has recorded 5 albums with the group. (Warner Western Records and Western Jubilee Recording.).

As an actor, Ray’s most recognized role came as the bad guy in Alan Autry’s western “Forgiven”.

Ray is a staunch advocate for many special causes – utilizing his talent for ongoing fund raising efforts.  He’s helped raise over $8 million for several organizations!  California’s “Water Wars”, Central Valley SPCA, and developing Fresno’s Chafee Zoo are among his top concerns.

History is another of Ray’s top passions. He often takes his hobby to the sky as a World War II re-enactor in a B-25 Mitchell Bomber. (His office is a small museum of WWII memorabilia!)

Travel is also a major component in Ray’s life.  He’s visited more than 130 countries over the years…his favorites being French Polynesia and Italy.