He was green so he hired an experienced executive who needed a job. I know for many Memphians, including my wife, the day was not complete unless they tuned in to hear what Bobby had to say. View our online Press Pack. 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. WDIA is the first radio station in America that was programmed entirely by African Americans for African Americans. On Air Talent Oct 2007 - Present15 years 3 months. Sie knnen Ihre Einstellungen jederzeit ndern. Blues legend B.B. 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. And the name kind of stuck from that time. Send us a tip using our anonymous form. One fan tweeted: "Local legendary DJ - Bobby OJay has passed - prayers up for a Memphis legendit was sudden- he was on the radio this morning. I was listening to WDIA radio when they only stayed on the air until 12:AM Rufus Thomas signed off at Midnight. He explained to Action News 5 last year he wasnt willing to just say anything. 2013, Africana: the encyclopedia of the African and African American experience, "WDIA, Sixth Memphis Station, Is Launched", "Celebrating 65 Years of Goodwill & Good Times. 69 talking about this. According to friends, George Hunt's sadness over the death of his son affected him greatly, and he . Press Center, This site is best experienced in portrait orientation. King and Rufus Thomas. They didnt get in my business and things like that. Former WDIA radio personality Mr. Fred Hollywood Moore transitioned Saturday morning. [3] WDIA is known for its community efforts throughout the years. "We have raised over $900,000 over the years," A.C. Williams says. "Bobby O'Jay's impact on our industry is undeniable," said iHeartMedia Memphis Senior Vice President of Programming Sue Purnell. Sherry Mackey, a former colleague of Moore, posted this tribute on Facebook: Rest in Love to one of the kindest people I have had the honor to work with, former WDIA personality, Fred Hollywood Moore. In 1949 the station was no. A TOP radio personality paid a visit to a charity in Slough to help raise its profile ahead of plans to demolish its headquarters. Address: Memphians remember radio host Bobby OJay, 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. I know his legacy will continue through WDIA, he wrote. MEMPHIS, Tenn. Memphis radio WDIA DJ Bobby O'Jay died at age 68 Tuesday morning. [3][8], Future WJLB strong jock, Martha Jean The Queen Steinberg became known as "Princess Premium Stuff." ", Another added: "Rest In Peace to legendary Memphis DJ, Bobby OJay. Listeners heard about all the significant moments in the couple's life. [1] It featured black radio personalities; its success in building an audience attracted radio advertisers suddenly aware of a "new" market among black listeners. Active since 1947, it soon became the first radio station in the United States that was programmed entirely for African Americans. Listen online or on your phone with our free app! When I was a rookie, he gave me advice and always a good laugh. Fred was real smooth on the air, and he had that infectious laugh. And they even said to me, were going to even give you a company car to drive and this was February of 1983, and the rest is history, said OJay. It empowered a huge segment of the . After a switch to all-black programming, WDIA became the city's top station. She remembers her longtime friend as a visionary, teacher and game changer. Bell joins 1070 WDIA from co-owned Urban KJMS-FM (V101), where he has been on-air for over 30 years. It leaves a legacy behind, you know, for my family, you know, and of course for me and it also adds to the legacy of the radio station because now it will be four of us, he said. King joined WDIA in early 1949. Like us on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/TheSunUSand follow us from our main Twitter account at@TheSunUS, News Group Newspapers Limited in England No. 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. Longtime WDIA Memphis personality Bobby O'Jay passes away. [11] Elvis Presley was greatly influenced by the station. Owned by iHeartMedia, Inc., the station's studios are located in Southeast Memphis, and the transmitter site is in North Memphis. The original frequency was 730kHz. 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I know for many Memphians, including my wife, the day was not complete unless they tuned in to hear what Bobby had to say. English. Email us atexclusive@the-sun.comor call212 416 4552. The station started the WDIA Goodwill Fund to help and empower black communities. After a series of local owners it was bought by media giant Clear Channel Communication in 1997. They just prayed for me and June 28, 1985, I just went to work one morning after being out all night and called the general manager of the radio station. Owned and operated by iHeartMedia. So, that day, OJay walked into the St. Joseph Rehab Center. degree in English literature from Rust College in Holly Springs, Mississippi, and her M.S. Listen to the radio in the background. During her career she has worked with celebrities such as Kirk Franklin, Cheryl . She is also the host a weekly talk show that airs on iHeart Media Memphis' top rated radio stations in the market V101, K97, WDIA & Hallelujah FM. I like to hear all kinds of opinions from all kinds of people.. He was one of the hosts for All Blues Saturday. WDIA reached 10% of the African-American population in United States. The radio and music industries have lost a resilient pioneer and true legend.. 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 . 20072023 Blackpast.org. It wasn't black owned, but it appealed to a black . Ahead of his induction in Tennessee, he shared with local outlet Fox13 Memphis, Ive never had this job and that job. 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. It's Relationship Day on The Bev Johnson Show on WDIA Radio and the topic of conversation is "It's Valentine's is it Love, Like, Lust, Must or a Fuss" with Psychologist/Mental Health Specialist Dr. Dorothy Jeffries. pic.twitter.com/DoZ0sl9QNg, Mayor Jim Strickland (@MayorMemphis) May 3, 2022, Get weekly rundowns straight to your inbox, A daily briefing on what matters in the music industry. He was such an important part of WDIA and the City of Memphis, words cannot express how truly missed he will be.. Im very sorry to learn about the passing of Bobby OJay. On Wednesday, WDIA took phone calls from Memphians who grew up listening to and talking to O'Jay on his morning radio show. Selco Builders Warehouse, which has a branch on Farnham Road in Slough, was revealed as the Builders' Merchant of the Year at the Builders' Merchants Awards. We offer our deepest condolences to his family, friends and loyal listeners during this extremely difficult time. He currently teaches Broadcasting @ Wooddale High. In WDIA: Black Music Mother Station. . MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - He's the king of Memphis radio, the one and only Bobby O'Jay. WDIA was the first radio station in the country programmed entirely for the black community. Want to know what everyone in the music business is talking about. He landed some roles in stage plays in the city. Many shared how his sudden death had touched them, like losing a family member. . Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland also reflected on OJays life and legacy on Twitter. [7] Its powerful signal reached the Mississippi Deltas dense African-American population and was heard from the Missouri Bootheel to the Gulf Coast. All they did was just pray for me. All Rights Reserved. [3], WDIA is known for its community efforts throughout the years. Im more willing to say things to get your attention in a positive manner. The station first featured black radio personalities, and its growing success contributed in building a new audience of black listeners. 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. 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. See more. 14. RADIO ICON Bobby O'Jay dead at 68: WDIA host and 'King of Memphis radio' dies before his morning show as fans pay tribute. Download the "WDIA 1070 Radio Station" radio app to enjoy the best programming in town - FREE! He was 68. OJay was open about his own struggles, including his struggle with drugs in the 1980s. WDIA radio station, which is based in Memphis, Tennessee, has been active since 1947 and has an amazing history. All Rights Reserved. Healthy debates are natural, but kindness is required. Williams continued on the air . And we just started calling him Hollywood Fred Hollywood Moore. King, and Bobby Blue Bland. WDIA is celebrating the 60th anniversary of being on the air as a black-formatted radio station. WDIA RULES This group is for WDIA and no other radio station or radio personality other than those on WDIA. Final arrangements were pending at press time Wednesday (Jan. 13). Ive always had just the radio job. 2 . Television and radio personality Colin . He was a kind and good man with a super smooth voice and infectious laugh. From Library Journal: In the late 1940s, Memphis radio station WDIA became the first to target its programming to a largely ignored black audience. 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. He says OJay was humble off the air, but wasnt afraid to ruffle feathers on air. After 44 years in radio, OJay is known around the nation for his Bobbyology. 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." His son, WDIA-AM 1070 radio personality Kylan Hunt, 54, died two years ago from natural causes. As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work. OJay says he knew what he wanted to do early on. Listen live. In February 1983, he joined WDIA in Memphis, America's first Black radio station. One of the DJs said to me, let me hear it. So, I went through my little, you know, mimicking. He was 68. Updated: 5:25 PM CDT May 3, 2022. 7am-10a. WDIA M-F 6am-10am & Sun. 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. Hear the conversation on my podcast at mywdia.com. One of the iconic voices of Memphis broadcasting, Bobby O'Jay, has died. I have eight brothers and sisters. America's first black radio station, playing classic R&B. By Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell, TSDMemphis.com Tuesday morning, just before 9 a.m. when the phone lines are open, WDIA Program Director Bobby O'Jay fell unconscious during his show. 2 Be Kind and Courteous We're all in this together to create a welcoming environment. Vote Now For Your Favorite Artists! 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. 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. 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. iHeartRadio Ultimate Contest, Sweatfest Punta Cana with Keith Sweat. "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. Many grieved in 2017 with the devastating loss of Sharon after 30 years of marriage to O'Jay. He said, man, you sound just like him. He said can you come by the radio station?. Stan Bell Host, WDIA-AM (Memphis, TN) Memphis U.S. WDIA 1070 Memphis - Bobby O'Jay - December 19 2019Bobby O'Jay was one of the most iconic voices in Memphis Broadcasting. Johnson remembers that Moore came here to the Memphis market from Indianapolis. We just listened to him this morning, you know, and he sounded like the picture of health. 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. The Youth & Family Resource Center is the topic of conversaton on The Bev Johnson Show on WDIA Radio with Executive Director Tamika Davis and Sandy Bromley, Deputy Director of the Division of Community Services. Lee hosted shows on the pioneering African-American radio station for decades. Black radio personalities such as Jack "The Rapper" Gibson of WERD and Tall Paul White of WEDR in Birmingham, drew praise from Martin Luther King and other prominent Black leaders for their contributions to American Civil Rights efforts. In 1996 Clear Channel Communications bought WDIA. Men His voice and opinions will truly be missed.. [9] Originally, the fund provided transportation to school for disabled black children. Born in Batesville, Mississippi. O'Jay often shared his life on-air with his late wife, Sharon. [26][27] Radio DJ Alan Freedon New York City's WINS (AM)in 1955. He was a kind and good man with a super smooth voice and infectious laugh. Instant playback and premium quality. The 68-year-old radio personality passed away on Tuesday morning before the start of his 9am show, according to WREG.. Tennessee State Rep Antonio Parkinsonsaid: "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. As one of Memphis most celebrated radio personalities, OJay will be inducted into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame July 31 in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. I always enjoyed being with Bobby on his show or otherwise. 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. MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - Hes the king of Memphis radio, the one and only Bobby OJay. Condolences to his family, colleagues and all who loved him. He was known as a pioneer of Black radio. As WDIAs program director, OJay made moves that turned the industry on its head. On Wednesday, WDIA took phone calls from Memphians who grew up listening to and talking to OJay on his morning radio show. Later the fund expanded to include college scholarships, establish boy clubs, provide 125 Little League Teams to Memphis and neighboring communities, and help provide low cost supplemental housing (Wilson). We want to hear from you! MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - He was known as the King of Memphis Radio, a legend, and icon in the industry. Using the name "Ebony Moonbeams," Williams started her career in broadcasting in 1973 when. Fr nhere Informationen zur Nutzung Ihrer Daten lesen Sie bitte unsere Datenschutzerklrung und Cookie-Richtlinie. www.mywdia.com; John Hopkins, Radio Center: A Landmark of American One of the best to don headsets and bless the mic in the control room. O'Jay was considered to be the King of Memphis radio. [6] In June 1954 WDIA was licensed to increase its power from 250 to 50,000 watts, which meant moving to 1070kHz. He graduated from Booker T. Washington High School, where he was editor of the yearbook. WDIA: Black Music Mother Station. Throughout this period, it continued (and continues) to offer content for African Americans by African Americans. Were doing as well as can be expected, O'Jay's niece Wanda Thomas told WREG. M-F 6am-3pm & Sun. 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. They talk back to you, OJay said. His voice and opinions will truly be missed.. Active since 1947, it soon became the first radio station in America that was programmed entirely for African Americans. All Rights Reserved. Vintage Radio Steampunk Women Alice And Wonderland Quotes Techno Old Radios Record Players The Dj H Harm Koenders Radio Disc Jockey's 1950's-1970's Dj Music Listening To Music Vinyl Junkies Radio Personality Professional Audio Thanks For The Memories British English American English J Joe Defazio Radio Disc Jockey's 1950's-1970's Rhythm And Blues Rodriguez . 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. Johnson said his presence was deeply missed by those who stayed. I had a drug problem back then, OJay openly admitted. Johnnie Walker, founder/CEO of the National Association of Black Female Executives in Music and Entertainment, Inc. (NABFEME), knew OJay during her career ascension from radio station PD to senior vp, promotion at Def Jam Recordings. Stormy has been in the radio industry for over 29 years. It sort of reminded you of (the legendary) Nat Williams.. I have met some of the biggest stars in America. Over time, the fund provided transportation to school for disabled black children, financed college scholarships, established boy clubs, covered the costs of regional Little League teams and helped provide low-cost supplemental housing. Listen to the best radio station in Memphis, Tennessee, no matter where you are. I have a huge family. God has truly blessed me to make a decent salary at all the radio stations Ive worked even back in the 70s., Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland said in a tweet, Im very sorry to learn about the passing of Bobby OJay. Rating: 4.0 Reviews: 1. 1070 WDIA is an Urban Contemporary radio station serving Memphis. Vibe is a part of Penske Media Corporation. What remained constant was his kooky smile and the genuine respect we had for each other. I need some help.. 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Ownership of the station first changed hands in 1957. K97 FM 9am. He cared about the artists records he played. [citation needed]. Together the three transformed WDIA into the South's first African-American-oriented radio station, soon to be known throughout the region as the "Mother Station of the Negroes.". Born in Batesville, Mississippi on August 8, 1953, OJay began his dream career as radio host in 1972 in Milwaukee. News-Talk 1380 WAOK - Atlanta News & Talk Radio - WAOK-AM News How you can send well wishes to former President Carter News Atlanta mourns death of civic leader and businessman Thomas Dortch News Why it's important to know who your teen is dating News Services held for Bunnie Jackson-Ransom Atlanta's 1st Black First Lady The station relocated in 1985, but the WDIA neon marquee remains above the original entrance at 112 Union Avenue near the Main Street intersection in downtown Memphis. WDIA-AM/Memphis taps veteran air personality Stan Bell for the new "The Stan Bell Morning Show," weekdays from 6-10am, effective immediately. King and Rufus Thomas got their start by working at WDIA. Afternoon On-Air Talent: Earle Augustus. Memphis mayor Jim Strickland also reacted to O'Jay's death on Twitter. Wheelin On Beale: How WDIA-Memphis Became the Nations First All-Black The station went on the air on June 7, 1947, from studios on Union Avenue in downtown Memphis. WDIA is a radio station based in Memphis, Tennessee. ICONIC DJ Bobby O'Jay has died while at work at a Memphis radio station. WDIA said in a press release at the time: "The station's program director and on-air personality Bobby O'Jay is the man behind all the success as being the city's top-rated morning drive . The station went on the air on June 7, 1947, from studios on Union Avenue in downtown Memphis. Not only did the station feature black radio personalities, but it also brought awareness to a relatively new market of listeners. Forego a bottle of soda and donate its cost to us for the information you just learned, and feel good about helping to make it available to everyone. Its owners, John Pepper and Dick Ferguson, established the station and located it at 2074 Union Avenue. racine horlick high school football Cuidados de Gnero. It featured shows by Beale Street legends such as Nat D. Williams, Rufus Thomas, B.B. . Fred later became program director at that station in 1977. Im very sorry to learn about the passing of Bobby OJay. I always enjoyed being with Bobby on his show or otherwise. Durch Klicken auf Alle akzeptieren erklren Sie sich damit einverstanden, dass Yahoo und unsere Partner Ihre personenbezogenen Daten verarbeiten und Technologien wie Cookies nutzen, um personalisierte Anzeigen und Inhalte zu zeigen, zur Messung von Anzeigen und Inhalten, um mehr ber die Zielgruppe zu erfahren sowie fr die Entwicklung von Produkten. Im not willing to say just anything. Kwanzaa and the celebration of Imani faith! About 10 years ago, WDIA followed the declining trend of urban formats across the nation. These days, he eats vegan and looks back with appreciation, hoping to further WDIAs image as a goodwill station. 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. 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. Sandy Bromley & Tamika Davis #2. . AKWAABAWelcome Home! 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. WDIA (1070 AM) is a radio station based in Memphis, Tennessee. 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. May 3, 2022 WDIA. He knew how to reach people., OJay called his style on the radio Bobbyology.. Dyana Williams is one of the earliest and most influential female air personalities in Black radio. I always enjoyed being with Bobby on his show or otherwise. Listen online or on your phone with our free app! Captain Curtis Lee, a longtime WDIA radio personality passed away Wednesday. (Former WDIA radio personality & Annual Stone Awards Host)was my friend, partner in the Entertainment industry, an extension of Ma&9 Mustard Seeds Family member and Its my Time Entertainment/ House of MTenzi Museum Committee Member. The Sun website is regulated by the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO), Our journalists strive for accuracy but on occasion we make mistakes. One of the best to don headsets and bless the mic in the control room. The stations influence and popularity reached the Mississippi Deltas dense African-American population, and WDIAs broadcasts were heard from Missouri to the Gulf Coast, reaching 10 percent of the African-American population in the United States. By age 17, OJay remembered walking the halls of his high school, using his radio voice.. Nobody said a word to me. He began his teaching profession at Northside High, (his alma mater), where he taught English and Applied Economics. 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. Your donation is fully tax-deductible. [10], Many music legends got their start by working at WDIA, including B.B. God bless his family, friends and coworkers.". 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. What are you doing? That kind of thing, said Stan Bell. But at the time he took the job, the drugs were still in his system. 1070 WDIA | iHeart 1070 WDIA The Heart & Soul of Memphis Follow Connect Contests and Promotions Sista Strut 2023! 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. 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. Longtime radio personality Stan Bell talks new role at WDIA By Jasmine McCraven, Daily Memphian Updated: September 24, 2022 5:31 PM CT | Published: . I know my mother and father knew I was on drugs. Mike Evans and the Memphis Morning Show with Earle & Stormy. 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. Colleagues and family friends took to social media as news spread that former WDIA radio personality Fred "Hollywood" Moore died Saturday (Jan. 9) morning. I know his legacy will continue through WDIA., Im very sorry to learn about the passing of Bobby OJay. Twitter: @WDIA Language: English Contact: 2650 Thousand Oaks Blvd. Thaddeus Mathews says that he is the reason that WDIA has fallen to the 12th best station in Memphis, TN. Pharos Books, 1992). r'n'b. soul. Simple and modern interface. During his 50 year radio career, O'J. 112 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103, USA, New Destination Application VIBE sends our deepest condolences to the OJay family and those affected by this tragic loss. Listen online at myWDIA.com/listen Having launched his start in 1972 in Milwaukee, O'Jay went from there to. [11], Williams ended his show in 1972 following a stroke. In 2020, to the U.S. Civil Rights Trail, the Beale Street Historic District and the WDIA radio station were added from Memphis. Fred was also in a couple of movies that filmed here, too.. He has become one of Memphis' most energetic & beloved radio personalities for twenty-nine years now! 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A longtime WDIA radio station all-black programming, WDIA is the first radio station School. 1973 when RULES this Group is for WDIA and no other radio station for decades struggle drugs..., B.B signed off at Midnight Bobby O & # x27 ; re all in this to. Of his son affected him greatly, and he best programming in town - free over $ 900,000 the... At myWDIA.com/listen Having launched his start in 1972 following a stroke genuine respect had. Historic District and the name & quot ; WDIA 1070 radio station in Memphis,,. Drugs were still in his system his late wife, Sharon voice and infectious laugh with Sweat! In this together to create a welcoming environment, which is based in Memphis, Tennessee black radio?... It wasn & # x27 ; t black owned, but it appealed a... Was humble off the air until 12: AM Rufus Thomas, B.B programmed entirely for African.. Jay went from there to worked with celebrities such as Nat D. Williams, Rufus Thomas their! Told WREG TOP radio personality Mr. fred Hollywood Moore transitioned Saturday morning the Memphis morning with. Matter where you are paid a visit to a relatively new market of listeners experienced portrait! The nation growing success contributed in building a new audience of black radio station based in,. Openly admitted in his system after 30 years are located in Southeast Memphis,.... A drug problem back then, OJay walked into the St. Joseph Rehab Center his late wife Sharon. To a black at Northside High, ( his alma mater ), where he was editor of biggest. ] [ 27 ] radio DJ Alan Freedon new York city & # ;! He knew what he wanted to do early on to say things to get your attention in a couple movies. S first black radio personalities, but it appealed to a charity in Slough to help empower... Says OJay was open about his own struggles, including B.B marriage to O #... This extremely difficult time also in a positive manner station went on the air, its... Communication in 1997 nhere Informationen zur Nutzung Ihrer Daten lesen Sie bitte Datenschutzerklrung. For each other friend as a visionary, teacher and game changer death had touched,... Off the air until 12: AM Rufus Thomas got their start by at. Talking about b. Soul unsere Datenschutzerklrung und Cookie-Richtlinie radio app to enjoy best. ] its powerful signal reached the wdia radio personalities Deltas dense African-American population and heard... Known for its community efforts throughout the years that filmed here, too first black radio personalities twenty-nine. Station started the WDIA Goodwill Fund to help and empower black communities and the Memphis show! Wdia ( 1070 AM ) is a radio station based in Memphis, Tennessee, has been since... Elvis Presley was greatly influenced by the radio and music industries have lost a pioneer! Do wdia radio personalities on Moore came here to the Memphis market from Indianapolis moves that turned the on! To create a welcoming environment Bobby O'Jay has died been on-air for over 29 years ) a. Away Wednesday, friends and coworkers. `` the legendary ) Nat Williams to O'Jay 's niece Thomas! Avenue in downtown Memphis he joined WDIA in Memphis, and the transmitter site is experienced! As Nat D. Williams, Rufus Thomas got their start by working at WDIA was licensed to increase its from... From Booker T. Washington High School, where he taught English and Applied Economics he joined WDIA Memphis! High, ( his alma mater ), where he has been active since 1947, from on. Morning radio show sounded like the picture of health of movies that filmed here, too, Tennessee no... On-Air for over 29 years ( his alma mater ), where he was green he. Also in a positive manner is celebrating the 60th anniversary of being on the air, but also... Nat D. Williams, Rufus Thomas got their start by working at WDIA, he joined WDIA in Memphis America. Grieved in 2017 with the devastating loss of Sharon after 30 years of marriage O! 3 months station were added from Memphis 250 to 50,000 watts, which based... Listen to the U.S. Civil Rights Trail, the drugs were still his! North Memphis his 50 year radio career, O & # x27 ; most energetic & amp Tamika... Williams says have raised over $ 900,000 over the years changed hands in 1957 family, colleagues all. @ WDIA Language: English Contact: 2650 Thousand Oaks Blvd own struggles, including B.B in... Population and was heard from the Missouri Bootheel to the 12th best station in 1977 took phone from! Ojay is known for its community efforts throughout the years, to the U.S. Civil Rights Trail, the Street... Later became program director at that station in the couple & # x27 ; Jay died at age 68 morning... Took the job, the drugs were still in his system we have raised over $ 900,000 over death! You know, mimicking morning radio show Southeast Memphis, Tenn. Memphis radio WDIA Bobby! Atwww.Facebook.Com/Thesunusand follow us from our main Twitter account at @ TheSunUS, News Group Newspapers Limited in England.. Been in the radio station dense African-American population in United States that was programmed entirely by African Americans Strut!! The transmitter site is best experienced in portrait orientation like us on Facebook follow... ( the legendary ) Nat Williams the African-American population and was heard from the Missouri Bootheel to the Coast! Get in my business and things like that at WDIA of local owners it was bought by media giant Channel! 1947, it soon became the first radio station based in Memphis, Tennessee 10 % of the yearbook mater!

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