Chronicle: The Country Aircheck team shares in the shock and grief experienced across the industry at the passing of Billboard Sr. Chart Mgr. Wade Jessen, 53, who died earlier today (3/5) following a heart attack. "Wade had a lot of integrity," says Billboard's Tom Roland. "He knew so much about so many people. He was a great source to go to if I had a question about a story. He was also a great neighbor. It's the oddest thing that we ended up living across from each other on a cul-de-sac. We looked after each other."

"Music is what drove him," says Billboard's Phyllis Stark. "He'd bring vinyl records from home and play them on a turntable during the day in his office, an office memorable in itself for its warm lighting and vintage radio decor. His country music knowledge was unsurpassed. I'm glad to see him being remembered for his kindness, humor and passion. The industry was lucky beyond measure to have had him as our ambassador, but it wasn't for nearly long enough."

Jessen was head of the trade's Country, Bluegrass, Christian and Gospel charts for 20 years. His first job in the industry was on-air at KNEU-AM/Roosevelt, UT in the late '70s. Subsequent stops included KSOP-FM/Salt Lake City and WSM-AM/Nashville. At the time of his passing, Jessen covered the night shift on SiriusXM's Willie's Roadhouse. We will remember him as a thoughtful and kind gentleman, and a passionate and principled competitor. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. Services are pending.