Las Vegas radio is in mourning as Martin Belter, aka ‘Big Marty,’ has left us at 72. He was a rock legend at KOMP 92.3-FM for many years. A true pioneer in rock radio he’s gone. Rest in peace.
“Big Marty” was more than a DJ—he was a personality, a voice and a buddy to all the listeners who tuned in to hear him play new rock hits and old favorites. His deep voice and big on air personality was KOMP-FM. He was part of your daily routine, starting your day or ending your night with his music and humor.
He started his career when rock was exploding and he was there for decades of it. From the hard edge of the 70’s to the glam of the 80’s to the grunge of the 90’s Marty knew what the people of Vegas wanted to hear. For him it was never a job, he was a rock fan and brought that to the airwaves.
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The voice of Vegas rock
In an industry of high turnover Marty was a constant. He didn’t just bring rock music to the radio he built a community around it. His knowledge of rock history and stories about the artists made his segments more than just a playlist. Marty had a way of making every listener feel like they were part of the inside conversation whether he was talking about legendary bands like Led Zeppelin or new talent breaking in.
Beyond his technical skills as a DJ Marty became a cultural icon in the Las Vegas music scene. Locals and tourists tuned in and many considered him the voice of rock in Vegas.
Big Marty
He was more than music. Fans remember his commitment to the community, showing up at events, supporting local artists and participating in charity drives. His life and career touched many and for some listeners his voice was comfort and familiarity.
For all his fame Marty Belter was humble and down to earth. Friends and fans alike remember him as someone who was as nice off the air as he was on. The rock scene in Vegas has lost one of its biggest supporters but his impact will live on through all the people he inspired.
In his honor
Big Marty’s passing leaves a hole in the Las Vegas radio scene and in the hearts of rock fans everywhere. He was a true legend. The team at KOMP 92.3-FM and fans all over Vegas are already sharing stories and memories. That’s what he was all about.
As rock music moves forward the influence of pioneers like Big Marty will always be there. He was one of those rare DJs who wasn’t just playing music—he was creating a culture and making lifelong memories for his listeners. Big Marty may be gone but his voice and spirit will always be part of Vegas radio.
