My journey to the Motherland, I wished I played with these dudes forever, Rulers of their home court against Lakers, Grizzlies pick up road, BTW earns district crown with patience, persistence, SLIDESHOW: Ja and Jaren jamming at the All-Star Game, LEGACY: Betty Brinson helped keep Memphis in tune, COVID-19 stats leveling off; health officials hopeful, WLOK Black Film Festival salutes Black History Month with Poitier-directed A Piece of the Action, PREVIEW: Thank you Katori Hall for TINA The Tina Turner Musical, Just in time for Love Day Notez&Flow with Keenan Shotwell. One of the iconic voices of Memphis broadcasting, Bobby O'Jay, has died. Today, WDIAs major playlist offers very little in the way of the Beale Street Blues and Gospel that established the stations early reputation, but spans the 1960s music to the present day, with significant air time devoted to the classic Soul sounds of the 1970s, and an occasional offering from its early on-air contributors B.B. Bobby and I were always on opposite sides of the desk. He has become one of Memphis' most energetic & beloved radio personalities for twenty-nine years now! Im very sorry to learn about the passing of Bobby OJay. One of the iconic voices of Memphis broadcasting, Bobby O'Jay, has died. She remembers her longtime friend as a visionary, teacher and game changer. I know his legacy will continue through WDIA., Im very sorry to learn about the passing of Bobby OJay. Toni Bell, who grew up listening to WDIA and worked at the station in the 1980s, says hearing Williams, Thomas, and other African-American personalities on the radio meant so much because no. [9] Originally, the fund provided transportation to school for disabled black children. ", Another added: "Rest In Peace to legendary Memphis DJ, Bobby OJay. Atlanta Radio Personalities Among National Black Radio Hall Of Fame Inductees. Former WDIA radio personality Mr. Fred Hollywood Moore transitioned Saturday morning. oldies. . 5/5 based on 1 review. Johnson remembers that Moore came here to the Memphis market from Indianapolis. He says his large family never pried, they just prayed and so did he. Mark as Played. Mark Stansbury, on-air personality on Sunday, remembers Fred as a good brother to work with. The Tennessee Radio Hall of Famer and WDIA DJ and program director was 68. Among other notable personalities were Maurice "Hot Rod" Hulbert, Theo "Bless My Bones" Wade, and Ford Nelson, who continued as of 2013 as an active gospel DJ on WDIA. Let's treat everyone with respect. Last year, he was inducted into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame after being honored by the Living Legends Foundation in 2000 and iHeartMedia Memphis in 2018. They talk back to you, OJay said. He was on the air, he engaged with his callers, talked to his listeners. He was 68. The Black Effect Podcast Network Is Making History Again This April! "I always enjoyed being with Bobby on his show or otherwise.. Broadcasting & media production company Photos See all Videos See all 0:38 Radio proved to be a rocky road. Radio WDIA is a radio station based in Memphis, Tennessee. God has truly blessed me to make a decent salary at all the radio stations Ive worked even back in the 70s., Reflecting on OJays passing, Chuck OBannon, Kudzukian Radio and on-air personality, told local outlet ABC 24, Bobby cared about people. When I returned to Memphis as the citys music commissioner, the acknowledgment and respect he showed me were priceless. King and Rufus Thomas got their start by working at WDIA. This is not only a loss for us as a city in Memphis, but a loss to all of us in the black community nationally, those of us in black music and radio and those of us who saw him as a mentor. King has a good time telling the story of how he got his radio gig at WDIA in Memphis, TN, a station that turned its sinking fortune around by becoming the first radio station in . Before joining WDIA the countrys first Black radio station as an air personality in 1983, OJay launched his radio career in 1972 in Milwaukee. WDIA went on the air June 7, 1947,[2] from studios on Union Avenue. He worked at radio station WTLC in Indianapolis, said Johnson. On Wednesday, WDIA took phone calls from Memphians who grew up listening to and talking to OJay on his morning radio show. The 68-year-old radio personality passed away on Tuesday morning before the start of his 9am show, according to WREG. The best way to connect to the community, you talk to them. She was raised in Ann Arbor, Michigan and attended public schools. Radio talk show host Beverly Elaine Johnson was born on May 10, 1953 in Memphis, Tennessee to William Van and Julia Danner Johnson. Humbled, OJay came home to Batesville for a visit. He had a daily 15-minute show, promoting first a patent medicine called Pep-Ti-Kon, and later Lucky Strike cigarettes, the first major advertiser for the station. As program director, he hired two other on-air personalities, who are still working: Bev Johnson and Mike Evans. Martha Jean The Queen Steinberg (September 9, 1930 January 29, 2000) was an influential African-American radio broadcaster and later was also the pastor of her own church. So, even though I was showing up for work every day, they just felt like, you know, we cant have that kind of guy on our radio station, he said. Talking to TV outlet Fox 13/Memphis prior to his induction, OJay said of his 49-year career, Ive never had this job and that job. To inquire about a licence to reproduce material, visit our Syndication site. SIDEBAR. WDIA is a radio station based in Memphis, Tennessee. But before he came to the station in Indianapolis, Fred worked at a station in St. Louis. My wife Melyne and I offer condolences to his family, to his radio family at iHeart and his loyal fans. RADIO ICON Bobby O'Jay dead at 68: WDIA host and 'King of Memphis radio' dies before his morning show as fans pay tribute. 14. O'Jay, who had been with WDIA since 1983, was inducted into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame in 2021. During his 50 year radio career, O'J. Klicken Sie auf Einstellungen verwalten um weitere Informationen zu erhalten und Ihre Einstellungen zu verwalten. Im not willing to say just anything. "The Sun", "Sun", "Sun Online" are registered trademarks or trade names of News Group Newspapers Limited. Bev Johnson. God bless his family, friends and coworkers.". Listen online or on your phone with our free app! I wanted us to be able to talk to our listeners every day about what was going on every day.. Even though there have been some ups and downs, its been more fun than anything.. Vote Now For Your Favorite Artists! . 1070 WDIA The Heart & Soul of Memphis Local News Tennessee Attraction Among The 17 Top Amusement Parks In America Feb 28, 2023 Sista Strut 2023! He was highly respected by all of in the industry whether you were radio, television or whatever. Back in 1986, I decided that it would be a great idea for us to start putting talk shows on the radio station, he recalled. Moore was in that number. Owned and operated by iHeartMedia. 2013, Africana: the encyclopedia of the African and African American experience, "WDIA, Sixth Memphis Station, Is Launched", "Celebrating 65 Years of Goodwill & Good Times. I added the Whats on Your Mind Line to stop the music at five oclock in the afternoon so we could talk to our listeners and they can talk back, said OJay. Listen To Podcasts That Examine The Passion, Perseverance, And Power Of Black Culture! He also served as program director during his tenure and interviewed countless Black music and culture legends, including Whitney Houston and Muhammad Ali, as well as David Ruffin and Eddie Kendricks of The Temptations. According to friends, George Hunt's sadness over the death of his son affected him greatly, and he . WDIA Memphis mainstay Bobby OJay passed away of unknown causes on Tuesday (May 3). Listen online or on your phone with our free app! Kwanzaa and the celebration of Imani faith! WDIA was the first radio station in the country programmed entirely for the black community. He would say things in a way to get your attention and start a conversation. Suite 4100 901-535-9342 Website: http://mywdia.iheart.com Stations 1070 WDIA The Heart & Soul of Memphis TOMORROW: 7am Bobby O'Jay 11am Bev Johnson 4pm Earle Augustus Shows Bev Johnson Memphis, TN On Wednesday, WDIA took phone calls from Memphians who grew up listening to and talking to O'Jay on his morning radio show. Bell joins 1070 WDIA from co-owned Urban KJMS-FM (V101), where he has been on-air for over 30 years. The Museum of Broadcast Communications announces the selection of 10 new Legends inductees into the Radio Hall of Fame for 2022, "recognizing the talents and efforts of air personalities, programmers and operators who contributed with greatness to the radio industry and have since passed away." G.P. Your donation is fully tax-deductible. I was listening to WDIA radio when they only stayed on the air until 12:AM Rufus Thomas signed off at Midnight. WDIA was the first radio station in the country programmed entirely for the black community. When O'Jay would open. Did you know WDIA in Memphis Tennessee was the first radio station in the United States that was programmed entirely for African Americans.Check out WDIA R. [I] stayed the 30 days, havent touched drugs and alcohol since, he said. Initially programmed to appeal to the white demographic with classical, country-western, and various other musical genres, WDIA failed to distinguish itself, and in a last attempt to stave off failure, began to play Blues records. English. The station first featured black radio personalities, and its growing success contributed in building a new audience of black listeners. Download Our Free iHeartRadio App! At the time, most stations had one talk show per week. ICONIC DJ Bobby O'Jay has died while at work at a Memphis radio station. In 1963 she . Pharos Books, 1992). WDIA's afternoon radio talent playing the best music in the world and keeping you up to date with the latest local and community information. Description: 1070 WDIA is the heart & soul of Memphis playing Memphis' top R&B music. He currently teaches Broadcasting @ Wooddale High. Fred later became program director at that station in 1977. WDIA was inducted in 2013. WDIA, the country's first Black radio station, had the distinction of hiring O'Jay as an on-air personality in 1983. Scruggs played a major role in organizing the foundation and raising money to preserve the Lorraine Motel and found the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis. He was the type of guy, you know, if you saw him out on the streets or whatever, he treats you like, Hey man, it is so great to see you. All they did was just pray for me. Memphis mayor Jim Strickland also reacted to O'Jay's death on Twitter. After 44 years in radio, OJay is known around the nation for his Bobbyology. May God Bless his family, his spirit, and his legacy.. 2 . I know for many Memphians, including my wife, the day was not complete unless they tuned in to hear what Bobby had to say. Ive always had just the radio job. His voice and opinions will truly be missed.. 7am-10a. African American History: Research Guides & Websites, Global African History: Research Guides & Websites, African American Scientists and Technicians of the Manhattan Project, Envoys, Diplomatic Ministers, & Ambassadors, Foundation, Organization, and Corporate Supporters. The station went on the air on June 7, 1947, from studios on Union Avenue in downtown Memphis. May God Bless his family, his spirit, and his legacy., Black Developers Housing Summit headed to Memphis to educate & empower, Ken Moody makes move from city government to the U of, For the childrens sake, let us not allow our history to, City Council edges forward with measures for police reform and oversight, A selection of books with African-American History Month in mind, Ekpe Abioto brings solid message with Dont Touch A Gun, WLOK Black Film Festival salutes Black History Month with Poitier-directed A, PREVIEW: Thank you Katori Hall for TINA The Tina Turner, Talking Black AF (And Fearless) takes root at town hall, Angela Davis reaction to a big reveal was the most priceless. Wdia Profile and History . He was inspired by his cousin, Victory in Christ Christian Church senior pastor, Melvin Jones, who was a radio and record executive in OJays early days. "Bobby O'Jay's impact on our industry is undeniable," said iHeartMedia Memphis Senior Vice President of Programming Sue Purnell. "The radio station helps me, it's therapeutic," Lee said. Dyana Williams is one of the earliest and most influential female air personalities in Black radio. He was one of the hosts for All Blues Saturday. Television and radio personality Colin . Share. The History of WDIA", Radio Center: A Landmark of American Music, "Sites in Tennessee, Kentucky added to Civil Rights Trail", "Wealth of Talent for Starlight Revue, July 1", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=WDIA&oldid=1132504634, This page was last edited on 9 January 2023, at 05:10. He was 68. 1070 WDIA, N.p., n.d. BlackPast.org is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and our EIN is 26-1625373. [4], Nat D. Williams, a syndicated columnist and high-school teacher, started Tan Town Jubilee on October 25, 1948. Win Your Trip to Our 2023 iHeartRadio Music Awards! OJay eventually got a tour of the station, but back then, you needed an FCC license to be a DJ, so radio would have to wait. You might get pissed-off at first, but its not going to be something thats vulgar and its not going to be something thats going to be immoral. When WDIA first went on air June 7, 1947, it was owned by John Pepper and Dick Ferguson, both . I hired this guy and within two months, this man had taken my job. Download the "WDIA 1070 Radio Station" radio app to enjoy the best programming in town - FREE! The station also publicized Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.s visits to Memphis and served as a leading source of news and information for the black community following Dr. Kings assassination. I know my mother and father knew I was on drugs. Then he fired me, OJay laughed. It empowered a huge segment of the . . Stan Bell Host, WDIA-AM (Memphis, TN) Memphis U.S. When WDIA went on the air in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1948, its white owners, Bert Ferguson and John R. Pepper, were anything but blues aficionados; however, deejay Nat D. Williams was. Fred was real smooth on the air, and he had that infectious laugh. 69 talking about this. Thomas continued to work at WDIA until he died in 2001. King and Rufus Thomas. Nat was a history teacher and the first black radio DJ at WDIA in Memphis. A small donation would help us keep this available to all. Bobby O'Jay, radio personality on Memphis' WDIAthe country's first Black radio stationhas died at the age of 68. From Billboard Music Awards to the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame where he will join fellow WDIA alums Bev Johnson, Rufus Thomas, and Nat D. Williams, OJays awards are plenty. I started opening the phone lines on my show in the morning for people to respond to things, all kinds of things, about kids and relationships and politics, and all the things going on in the world that affect our lives. His son, WDIA-AM 1070 radio personality Kylan Hunt, 54, died two years ago from natural causes. These days, he eats vegan and looks back with appreciation, hoping to further WDIAs image as a goodwill station. Web. 679215 Registered office: 1 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9GF. WDIA M-F 6am-10am & Sun. Mathews has been quick to tell his listeners to check out the Arbitron ratings on radio on line.It is very clear that since WPLX as been on the air, that WDIA ratings has been on a decline. [10], Many music legends got their start by working at WDIA, including B.B. Call sign: WDIA Frequency: 1070 AM City of license: Memphis, TN Format: Urban Contemporary Owner: iHeartMedia Area Served: Memphis Sister stations: 600 WREC , 95.7 Hallelujah FM , The Mighty 990 , K97.1 , V101 , 101.9 KISS FM , ROCK 103 Memphis A cause of . Not only did the station feature black radio personalities, but it also brought awareness to a relatively new market of listeners. Community Efforts Rating: 4.0 Reviews: 1. May 3, 2022 WDIA. 1070 WDIA | iHeart 1070 WDIA The Heart & Soul of Memphis Follow Connect Contests and Promotions Sista Strut 2023! 112 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103, USA, New Destination Application To see all content on The Sun, please use the Site Map. Stan is also a Shelby County Schools Careers and Technology instructor. Though the on-air talent was black, as were the artists whose music they played, ownership remained white. Honored by the Living Legends Foundation in 2000 and iHeartMedia Memphis in 2018, he was also a National Radio Hall of Fame nominee. The owners, John Pepper and Bert Ferguson, were both white, and the format was a mix of country and western and light pop,[3] as well as "homemaker shows", network shows and block programming that included soap operas and classical music. One of the best to don headsets and bless the mic in the control room. Stan Bell, one of the citys most beloved on-air personalities and popular, local DJ also posted on Facebook: We have lost a gentle giant in the radio industry. I like to hear all kinds of opinions from all kinds of people.. Not only did the station feature black radio personalities, but it also brought awareness to a relatively new market of listeners. Fr nhere Informationen zur Nutzung Ihrer Daten lesen Sie bitte unsere Datenschutzerklrung und Cookie-Richtlinie. OJay was also a National Radio Hall of Fame nominee. Website. O'Jay was the program host of the "Fun Morning Show" on IHeartMedia's WDIA. In the 1970s and 1980s, the owners of WDIA also owned KDIA, a similarly formatted station in the San Francisco Bay Area. degree in educational media technology from Jackson State University. [1] It featured black radio personalities; its success in building an audience attracted radio advertisers suddenly aware of a "new" market among black listeners. Nobody said a word to me. Bobbyology is my thought pattern. Radio Personality iHeartMedia Oct 2018 - Jun 20223 years 9 months United States Morning On-Air Talent: Mike Evans and the Memphis Morning Show on V101. [14], "Celebrating 65 Years of Goodwill & Good Times." Hes going to be missed and I know a lot of us in the industry looked up to him. He programmed four talk shows and industry insiders scoffed until the ratings showed listeners wanted more. 5 Star Stories: Bobby OJay, king of Memphis radio, Woman accused of driving into home, killing former pro basketball player Galen Young granted diversion, Justin Bieber cancels remainder of world tour after Ramsay Hunt syndrome diagnosis, 1 dead after multi-vehicle crash on I-240, traffic heavily congested, First Alert Meteorologist Brittney Bryant's Thursday Morning Weather 3/2, Bane leads Grizzlies to victory against Rockets, Baptist Memorial speaks out on gun violence, 1 dead after crash near Shelby Drive, MPD reports. And we just started calling him Hollywood Fred Hollywood Moore. Final arrangements were pending at press time Wednesday (Jan. 13). The first radio station in the United States programmed by and for African Americans, WDIA was one of only six stations broadcasting in Memphis, Tennessee when it hit the airwaves in 1947. A cause of death has not been released by authorities. WDIA is celebrating the 60th anniversary of being on the air as a black-formatted radio station. [5] This was one of the first radio programs in the United States to appeal to black listeners. 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This site is protected by reCAPTCHA Enterprise and the Google, Angela Bassett Says Potential Oscar Win Would Be A Childhood Dream ComeTrue, Kelly Rowland To Judge Audibles Breakthrough, The First Audio-Only SingingContest, De La Souls Trugoy The Doves First Posthumous Release Is A GorillazCollab. King would later attribute his success as a musician to the recognition he received from his early career airtime on WDIA. The first radio station in the United States programmed by and for African Americans, WDIA was one of only six stations broadcasting in Memphis, Tennessee when it hit the airwaves in 1947. [3][8], Future WJLB strong jock, Martha Jean The Queen Steinberg became known as "Princess Premium Stuff." Using the name "Ebony Moonbeams," Williams started her career in broadcasting in 1973 when. Many music legends got their start by working at WDIA, including B.B. The station went on the air on June 7, 1947, from studios on Union Avenue in downtown Memphis. Praying for the strength and peace of his family as we honor his legacy.. Radio personalities are very popular and the success of a radio channel is largely dependent upon the popularity of the radio personality who host its programs. Fred Hollywood Moore was the leading Actor in MA&9s 1998/ 99/2000 stage play Have Eyes see not; Have Ears hear not: Story of a family witness signs of the timeMy Prayers & condolences to Mrs. Judy Moore & the Moore Family. A massive lay-off sweep ended the careers of a number of radio personnel and on-air personalities. As WDIAs program director, OJay made moves that turned the industry on its head. Bobby was a trailblazer in the industry as well as a legacy in the community for multiple decades. He had a brief on-air stint in Montgomery, Alabama, but returned to Milwaukee prior to landing the hosting gig at WDIA in 1983. Listen to the best radio station in Memphis, Tennessee, no matter where you are. Throughout this period, it continued (and continues) to offer content for African Americans by African Americans. The trailblazers voice and personality have helped make up the fabric of the Bluff City for decades as part of the historic legacy of the Mid-Souths first African American radio station, WDIA. Watch Bobby OJay reflect on his early days at WDIA below. Listeners heard about all the significant moments in the couple's life. Twitter: @WDIA Language: English Contact: 2650 Thousand Oaks Blvd. WDIA is the first radio station in America that was programmed entirely by African Americans for African Americans. One of the stations most well-known personalities, Bev Johnson, told, that Moore was kind of laid back and real smooth., We have lost a gentle giant in the radio industry. pic.twitter.com/DoZ0sl9QNg, Mayor Jim Strickland (@MayorMemphis) May 3, 2022. WHAL Sat.. Stormy Taylor He was a kind and good man with a super smooth voice and infectious laugh. www.mywdia.com; John Hopkins, Radio Center: A Landmark of American One of the stations most well-known personalities, Bev Johnson, told The New Tri-State Defender that Moore was kind of laid back and real smooth., She continued, I came to WDIA in 1983, 38 years ago, and Fred came a later that same year, I believe it was, said Johnson. Fred had a very good voice, said Stansbury. Stormy has been in the radio industry for over 29 years. Instant playback and premium quality. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA Enterprise and the Google, WDIA's Bobby O'Jay during The Recording Academy HONORS 2005 at Memphis Cook Convention Center in Memphis, Tennessee, United States. View our online Press Pack. 2023 Vibe Media, LLC. Its been fun more than anything, said OJay. Bobby OJay, radio personality on Memphis WDIAthe countrys first Black radio stationhas died at the age of 68. He graduated from Booker T. Washington High School, where he was editor of the yearbook. Johnson received her B.A. WDIA moved its home to Radio Center, the former home of WMPS, in 1985, then to a suburban office park in 2004. February 10. OJay says he knew what he wanted to do early on. WDIA reached 10% of the African-American population in United States. Fans of the radio legend, known as the "King of Memphis radio," took to Twitter to mourn him and celebrate his life. I think the reason why Bobby thrived and was successful with it because he found his niche and he worked it, said Bell. The Sun website is regulated by the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO), Our journalists strive for accuracy but on occasion we make mistakes. Moreover, the station owners established several other successful rhythm-and-blues outlets, including KDIA in Oakland, California. VIBE sends our deepest condolences to the OJay family and those affected by this tragic loss. For further details of our complaints policy and to make a complaint please click this link: thesun.co.uk/editorial-complaints/, Memphis DJ Bobby O'Jay has died at the age of 68, A cause of death for O'Jay has not been released. Daten ber Ihr Gert und Ihre Internetverbindung, wie Ihre IP-Adresse, Browsing- und Suchaktivitten bei der Nutzung von Yahoo Websites und -Apps. Wheelin On Beale: How WDIA-Memphis Became the Nations First All-Black "Cannonball" Cantor, one of the few white announcers on WDIA, tells how this decision resulted not only in business success, but mirrored America's nascent awareness of African American culture and social issues. Only minutes after midnight, early Wednesday morning, O'Jay's colleague, author, and award-winning photographer, Mark Stansbury, confirmed that the official cause of [] I know his legacy will continue through WDIA, he wrote. He says OJay was humble off the air, but wasnt afraid to ruffle feathers on air. Please include the headline. 1070 WDIA is a radio station based in Memphis, Tennessee providing Urban Oldies/Classic Soul music. He drove the 50 miles and interviewed on the spot. A.C. Williams, a former disc jockey for the station, helped create the Goodwill Fund in 1954, and the station's identification announcement became, Youre Listening to 50,000 Watts of Goodwill, W-D-I-A Memphis.. The next year he took a DJ position on an afternoon show previously hosted by Maurice "Hot Rod" Hulbert. King and Bobby Blue Bland. He was green so he hired an experienced executive who needed a job. Address: Many grieved in 2017 with the devastating loss of Sharon after 30 years of marriage to O'Jay. Men Former WDIA radio personality Mr. Fred Hollywood Moore transitioned Saturday morning. MEMPHIS, Tenn. Memphis radio WDIA DJ Bobby O'Jay died at age 68 Tuesday morning. A segue to an on-air gig in Montgomery, Alabama, was followed by a return to Milwaukee prior to landing at WDIA, where he also served as program director, During the course of his estimable tenure at the station, OJay interviewed a whos who in Black music and culture, including Whitney Houston, Muhammad Ali and Temptations members David Ruffin and Eddie Kendricks. Its a process.. He was such an important part of WDIA and the City of Memphis, words cannot express how truly missed he will be.. Fred was also in a couple of movies that filmed here, too.. On air personality Bev Johnson of WDIA, AM 1070 in Memphis, Tennessee. I have eight brothers and sisters. The WDIA Goodwill Fund is dedicated to helping and empowering . From Library Journal: In the late 1940s, Memphis radio station WDIA became the first to target its programming to a largely ignored black audience. WDIA disc jockey WDIA is the first radio station in America that was programmed entirely by African-Americans for African-Americans. The station's management had been mostly white. Ive always had just the radio job. After three years off the air Lee and Peters are back on air on a new station, WLRM AM 1380, with a brand new talk show. Johnson said his presence was deeply missed by those who stayed. I called him at his home and I said, hey, man, when I get off the air today, Im going to rehab. He said, for what? I said I got a drug problem. Rufus Thomas maintained his program until his passing in 2001. The station started the WDIA Goodwill Fund to help and empower black communities. Owned by iHeartMedia, Inc., the station's studios are located in Southeast Memphis, and the transmitter site is in North Memphis. Music News 2 Be Kind and Courteous We're all in this together to create a welcoming environment. M-F 6am-3pm & Sun. When hewould usually open phone lines for listeners, the station continued to play music. All Rights Reserved. I always enjoyed being with Bobby on his show or otherwise. 29 Apr. He can be heard Monday through Friday on WDIA from 6 to 10 a.m. and on V101 from 3 to 7 p.m. (Patrick Lantrip/The Daily Memphian) In February 1983, he joined WDIA in Memphis, America's first Black radio station. [3], WDIA is known for its community efforts throughout the years. In 1996 Clear Channel Communications bought WDIA. Gospel radio show host and academic administrator Markhum "Mark" L. Stansbury, Sr. was born on April 5, 1942 in Memphis, Tennessee to Willie and Eliza Markham Stansbury. [12] King credits his days on the station for building his audience and launching his career, describing the station as providing a sense of freedom. Pried, they just prayed and so did he WDIA disc jockey WDIA is radio! A radio station based in Memphis, TN ) Memphis U.S teacher, started Tan Town Jubilee October. There have been some ups and downs, its been more fun than anything.. now... Kdia, a syndicated columnist and high-school teacher, started Tan Town Jubilee on October,... Brought awareness to a relatively new market of listeners was humble off the air as a visionary teacher! For multiple decades 29 years me, it continued ( and continues ) to offer for... I always enjoyed being with Bobby on his show or otherwise, 54, died two years ago from causes! Owned by iHeartMedia, Inc., the station started the WDIA Goodwill Fund help... Bridge Street, London, SE1 9GF o'jay 's death on Twitter Pepper and Ferguson! Perseverance, and he worked it, said OJay not been released by authorities when O & # ;... 2018, he engaged with his callers, talked to his radio family at iHeart his! Was editor of the yearbook start a conversation at the time, most stations had talk! Of News Group Newspapers Limited press time Wednesday ( Jan. 13 ) where you are successful rhythm-and-blues outlets, KDIA. The Tennessee radio Hall of Fame nominee air June 7, 1947 from... S therapeutic, & quot ; wdia radio personalities started her career in broadcasting in 1973 when and... Syndicated columnist and high-school teacher, started Tan Town Jubilee on October 25, 1948 on. Listeners heard about all the significant moments in the radio industry for over 30 years of Goodwill good... The 68-year-old radio personality on Sunday, remembers Fred as a good brother to with... Provided transportation to school for disabled black children DJ and program director, he hired an experienced executive needed... Moments in the San Francisco Bay Area director at that station in the radio for! Music they played, ownership remained white Town - free previously hosted by Maurice `` Rod. Had that infectious laugh zur Nutzung Ihrer Daten lesen Sie bitte unsere Datenschutzerklrung und Cookie-Richtlinie director at that station the! Be missed.. 7am-10a missed by those who stayed '' on iHeartMedia 's WDIA for all Saturday. Of Fame nominee Tuesday morning Courteous we & # x27 ; Jay ( c ) ( 3 ) and... Saturday morning your attention and start a conversation stationhas died at age 68 Tuesday morning before the start his. Is also a National radio Hall of Fame Inductees the reason why Bobby thrived and was successful with it he! His program until his passing in 2001 Bobby and i offer condolences to his listeners music... Number of radio personnel and on-air personalities, and its growing success contributed in building a audience..., [ 2 ] wdia radio personalities studios on Union Avenue WDIA radio when they only stayed on the,. Those who stayed being with Bobby on his show or otherwise his spirit, and its growing contributed. `` Sun online '' are registered trademarks or trade names of News Group Newspapers Limited AM Rufus Thomas maintained program... Wdia in Memphis, Tennessee providing Urban Oldies/Classic Soul music Technology instructor smooth voice and opinions will truly missed! Station 's studios are located in Southeast Memphis, TN ) Memphis U.S school, where he was one the. Mother and father knew i was on drugs always on opposite sides the... Hunt & # x27 ; Jay died at age 68 Tuesday morning my.... Broadcasting in 1973 when is one of the African-American population in United States in 2018, he vegan... Of Bobby OJay passed away of unknown causes on Tuesday ( May 3 ) non-profit and our EIN 26-1625373! Recognition he received from his early career airtime on WDIA Jan. 13 ),..., you talk to our 2023 iHeartRadio music Awards in 2018, he was a in... African Americans the `` fun morning show '' on iHeartMedia 's WDIA Rod '' Hulbert first... Name & quot ; Ebony Moonbeams, & quot ; Ebony Moonbeams &!, teacher and the first radio programs in the 1970s and 1980s, the station on... Download the & quot ; Lee said sadness over the death of his 9am show, according to,! On its head London, SE1 9GF and empowering wdia radio personalities Bell Host, WDIA-AM 1070 radio station moves. Visit our Syndication site on October 25, 1948 don headsets and bless the mic in the industry... To o'jay 's death on Twitter address: Many grieved in 2017 with the devastating loss of after. Very sorry to learn about the passing of Bobby OJay to appeal to black.! Thomas continued to work at a Memphis radio station in America wdia radio personalities was entirely... In United States to appeal to black listeners and father knew i was on the air June.. `` director at that station in America that was programmed entirely for the black Effect Podcast Network is History... In Peace to legendary Memphis DJ, Bobby O & # x27 ; Jay would open a. Matter where you are off at Midnight Daten lesen Sie bitte unsere Datenschutzerklrung und Cookie-Richtlinie radio! Unsere Datenschutzerklrung und Cookie-Richtlinie, no matter where you are not been released by.! I was on the air on June 7, 1947, from studios on Union Avenue executive who needed job. Programmed four talk shows and industry insiders scoffed until the ratings showed listeners wanted.! This April multiple decades in Southeast Memphis, Tenn. Memphis radio station in Memphis, Tenn. radio... Commissioner, the station first featured black radio DJ at WDIA, including KDIA in Oakland, California hosted! Legends Foundation in 2000 and iHeartMedia Memphis in 2018, he was highly respected by all in! No matter where you are DJ position on an afternoon show previously hosted by Maurice `` Hot Rod Hulbert. Melyne and i were always on opposite sides of the earliest and influential... Hall of Fame nominee our EIN is 26-1625373 beloved radio personalities, and his legacy 2... Air personalities in black radio Hall of Famer and WDIA DJ and program director at station... Rest in Peace to legendary Memphis DJ, Bobby O & # x27 ; re all in this together create... Black, as were the Artists whose music they played, ownership remained white the years at press Wednesday! Americans by African Americans by African Americans by African Americans by African Americans been released by authorities a. Of unknown causes on Tuesday ( May 3, 2022 community, you talk them. ( V101 ), where he has been on-air for over 29 years who! Dj position on an afternoon show previously hosted by Maurice `` Hot Rod Hulbert. In Oakland, California WDIA Language: English Contact: 2650 Thousand Oaks Blvd Memphis U.S Follow connect Contests Promotions. Was successful with it because he found his niche and he Bev johnson and Mike Evans his... Deepest condolences to the station went on the air on June 7, 1947, was! About what was going on every day about what was going on day. Just started calling him Hollywood Fred Hollywood Moore or whatever industry as as! On your phone with our free app @ MayorMemphis ) May 3 2022! Knew what he wanted to do early on able to talk to our iHeartRadio. Him Hollywood Fred Hollywood Moore transitioned Saturday morning, on-air personality on Memphis WDIAthe countrys first black personalities., Another added: `` Rest in Peace to legendary Memphis DJ, Bobby O #... Of Bobby OJay, radio personality Kylan Hunt, 54, died two ago! Americans for African Americans by African Americans download the & quot ; WDIA 1070 radio Kylan... Free app Sunday, remembers Fred as a visionary, teacher and the transmitter site in. With the devastating loss of Sharon after 30 years of Goodwill & Times... Humbled, OJay came home to Batesville for a visit remained white music commissioner, the acknowledgment and he. The 68-year-old radio personality Mr. Fred Hollywood Moore transitioned Saturday morning 3 ], `` Sun '', Sun! Ojay says he knew what he wanted to do early on station established! The hosts for all Blues Saturday Lee said Arbor, Michigan and attended public schools two ago! Away on Tuesday ( May 3, 2022 wdia radio personalities communities air personalities in radio! Language: English Contact: 2650 Thousand Oaks Blvd earliest and most influential female air personalities black... Will truly be missed.. 7am-10a 1070 WDIA | iHeart 1070 WDIA from Urban. Personalities for twenty-nine years now before the start of his son affected him greatly, he. Attribute his success as a visionary, teacher and the first black radio Ebony Moonbeams &. Just started calling him Hollywood Fred Hollywood Moore going to be missed and i condolences... Offer condolences to his listeners years ago from natural causes for multiple decades Bobbyology. Welcoming environment about what was going on every day London, SE1 9GF a welcoming.. For the black community know a lot of us in the San Francisco Bay Area Gert. & amp ; Soul of Memphis & # x27 ; Jay successful with it because he found his niche he! Listeners heard about all the significant moments in the control room legacy in San! Your attention and start a conversation Soul music 50 miles and interviewed on the air 12. All the significant moments in the country programmed entirely for the black community was by. Was one of Memphis broadcasting, Bobby OJay reflect on his morning radio show Courteous we & x27! Image as a Goodwill station 9am show, according to WREG or otherwise radio for.
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