by Mindy Aguon

Guam - Guam music legend Joe "Uncle Tote" Cunningham died on Thursday. Cunningham was known by many on Guam and around the world for his musical abilities. He had a distinctive voice, a child-like but contagious smile, a great sense of humor and could sing and play just about any song you requested. Cunningham spent years building up a listening audience on the radio and has made his mark on the local music scene helping musicians of all ages.

He hailed from Louisville, Kentucky but called Guam home. The news of his passing has come as a shock to many especially those in the music community and those who he mentored. On his Facebook page, many friends recall fond memories of Cunningham roller skating through the radio stations he used to work for while others called him a musical legend on Guam.

The Merizo resident was previously an afternoon show host for KUAM Radio's AM and FM stations.