The introduction
For years, Black radio has helped shape society by increasing visibility for many, supporting various groups. When AM stations played gospel and jazz years ago, today’s digital media with hip-hop, R&B and talk radio guarantee Black radio stations are still leading and serving their communities.
This blog looks into the key Black radio stations and how they continue to make a difference on the air and off.
Throughout many years, black radio has shaped and guided cultural, political and social activities in the US. Ever since they began in the early 20th century, Black-controlled and Black-themed radio stations have made a big impact on the lives of African Americans by giving space to voices usually kept quiet by regular media. They entertained, helped learning, organized activities and empowered groups, mainly during important times in America’s past.
In Memphis, Tennessee, WDIA-AM was among the first and most important Black radio stations. The station was started in 1947 as the first radio station in the U.S. to have all Black hosts and air Black programming. In addition to its popular music, WDIA began broadcasting news stories, religious and spiritual programs and service bulletins for African Americans. B.B. King began his musical journey on WDIA and the station represented strength and inspiration for many in the South’s segregated areas.
In the 1940s, WLIB in New York City started and quickly became important to the Black community for both politics and culture. WLIB became a meeting place for civil rights leaders, political rate runners and local organizers. The Nation of Islam, Malcolm X and the Black Power movement had few places in the media except for The Final Call. People found political expression and cultural pride at the station during the 1960s and 70s.
Leonard and Phil Chess of Chess Records founded WVON (Voice of the Negro) in Chicago in 1963 and it was also extremely important. As a result, DJs such as Herb Kent and Pervis Spann emerged and used radio to share their views on political matters and help the community. WVON provided live reporting of protests, speeches and rallies during the Civil Rights Movement. Dr. Chicago’s WVON invited Martin Luther King Jr. frequently to help build support for civil rights in the city and across the country.
It played a part in many areas besides political matters. It became important for the development of R&B, soul, hip-hop and gospel music. Frankie Crocker launched WBLS in New York in 1972 which became one of the main voices in shaping urban contemporary radio. The station combined music and lifestyle shows that ATM audiences found attractive. Thanks to his calm voice and witty cultural observations, WBLS led the way for Black radio during the 70s and 80s.
Since 1979, when Stevie Wonder opened it, KJLH (Kindness, Joy, Love & Happiness) was a leading station in Los Angeles, providing an example of Black-owned radio in a big city. KJLH brought community topics, health classes and local movement into its mix of music shows effortlessly. The choice of “Total Radio” as its motto spoke of KPOO’s mission to help all parts of the person.
Even today, both traditional and digital formats keep alive the work of the early AM and FM radio pioneers. The change from many radio stations to fewer has put local and independent Black broadcasters at risk, but online and satellite services have presented them with different paths. Today’s heirs to civil rights radio, like Urban One (before Radio One), handle dozens of radio stations and play a key role in the lives of millions of Black listeners.
Black radio has recorded history and has been central to creating it, too. It supports minorities and has played a role in helping Blackness become part of popular media in America. Not only have its sounds changed the music, but the culture, beliefs and politics of generations of African Americans have been impacted as well. Allen tells how Black radio pushed through many barriers, came up with fresh ideas and remained committed to helping others—a main force in shaping the country.
