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. Rating: 4.0 Reviews: 1. 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 . I have a huge family. Regional As seen in: WDIA-AM (Memphis, TN), POWER Magazine Educator, Radio Personality, Husband, Father Is this you? In 2020, to the U.S. Civil Rights Trail, the Beale Street Historic District and the WDIA radio station were added from Memphis. Fans of the radio legend, known as the "King of Memphis radio," took to Twitter to mourn him and celebrate his life. Praying for the strength and peace of his family as we honor his legacy.. Broadcasting Blues, Gospel, emerging R&B and various talk programs, WDIA became known as a direct appeal to advertisers who wished to reach the African American demographic. Condolences to his family, colleagues and all who loved him. Press Center, This site is best experienced in portrait orientation. 5/5 based on 1 review. 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. Nobody said a word to me. 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. Its just going to be something that maybe will shake you a little bit, OJay explained. Broadcasting & media production company Photos See all Videos See all 0:38 Moore was in that number. Vibe is a part of Penske Media Corporation. I think the reason why Bobby thrived and was successful with it because he found his niche and he worked it, said Bell. Hes going to be missed and I know a lot of us in the industry looked up to him. He says his large family never pried, they just prayed and so did he. The trailblazer's voice and personality have helped make up the fabric of the Bluff City for decades as part of the historic legacy of the Mid-South's first African American radio station, WDIA. One of the iconic voices of Memphis broadcasting, Bobby O'Jay, has died. Williams continued on the air . Only minutes after midnight, early Wednesday morning, O'Jay's colleague, author, and award-winning photographer, Mark Stansbury, confirmed that the official cause of [] oldies. MEMPHIS, Tenn. Memphis radio WDIA DJ Bobby O'Jay died at age 68 Tuesday morning. Dyana Williams is one of the earliest and most influential female air personalities in Black radio. Twin Cities: AM Personality Tom Barnard ReUps At KQRS; Portland OR Radio: Lar Larson Renews Deal With KXL; Richmond Radio: iHM Names A-J OM/Regional PM . These days, he eats vegan and looks back with appreciation, hoping to further WDIAs image as a goodwill station. Instant playback and premium quality. America's first black radio station, playing classic R&B. Music News His voice and opinions will truly be missed.. [7] Its powerful signal reached the Mississippi Deltas dense African-American population and was heard from the Missouri Bootheel to the Gulf Coast. [14], "Celebrating 65 Years of Goodwill & Good Times." 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. On Wednesday, WDIA took phone calls from Memphians who grew up listening to and talking to OJay on his morning radio show. racine horlick high school football Cuidados de Gnero. [1] It featured black radio personalities; its success in building an audience attracted radio advertisers suddenly aware of a "new" market among black listeners. His son, WDIA-AM 1070 radio personality Kylan Hunt, 54, died two years ago from natural causes. He said, man, you sound just like him. He said can you come by the radio station?. We offer our deepest condolences to his family, friends and loyal listeners during this extremely difficult time. 1070 WDIA is the heart & soul of Memphis! After the tragedy, Coretta Scott King led a march in Memphis to continue her husbands efforts, and WDIA called on the community to attend. WHAL Sat.. Stormy Taylor Website. 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. Listen For Your Chance To Win! RADIO ICON Bobby O'Jay dead at 68: WDIA host and 'King of Memphis radio' dies before his morning show as fans pay tribute. r'n'b. soul. Please include the headline. I know for many Memphians, including my wife, the day was not complete unless they tuned in to hear what Bobby had to say," he wrote. I have met some of the biggest stars in America. 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. 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. 29 Apr. Bobby O'Jay, radio personality on Memphis' WDIAthe country's first Black radio stationhas died at the age of 68. This callsign, however, is now assigned to an unrelated Christian-programmed station. MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - He was known as the King of Memphis Radio, a legend, and icon in the industry. MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - Hes the king of Memphis radio, the one and only Bobby OJay. On Air Talent Oct 2007 - Present15 years 3 months. Main features: Easy to use. ICONIC DJ Bobby O'Jay has died while at work at a Memphis radio station. Competing against him in radio taught me programming; trying to get a record played at his station taught me the real meaning of perseverance, tenacity and how to be a record exec. Its been fun more than anything, said OJay. 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. He currently teaches Broadcasting @ Wooddale High. Twitter: @WDIA Language: English Contact: 2650 Thousand Oaks Blvd. Stan Bell Host, WDIA-AM (Memphis, TN) Memphis U.S. 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. The 68-year-old radio personality passed away on Tuesday morning before the start of his 9am show, according to WREG. 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. Were doing as well as can be expected, O'Jay's niece Wanda Thomas told WREG. Fired within three months of taking his first gig in Birmingham, that Milwaukee station he called during high school hired him and he quickly became program director. They didnt get in my business and things like that. Using the name "Ebony Moonbeams," Williams started her career in broadcasting in 1973 when. God bless his family, friends and coworkers.". Men 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. 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. WDIA Memphis mainstay Bobby O'Jay passed away of unknown causes on Tuesday (May 3). 679215 Registered office: 1 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9GF. I had a drug problem back then, OJay openly admitted. 14. B.B. Kwanzaa and the celebration of Imani faith! 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. Longtime WDIA Memphis personality Bobby O'Jay passes away. Its a process.. 2023 Billboard Media, LLC. His voice and opinions will truly be missed.. Owned by iHeartMedia, Inc., the station's studios are located in Southeast Memphis, and the transmitter site is in North Memphis. As program director, he hired radio broadcast veterans Bev Johnson and Mike Evans, who still sit behind the mic. It reads in part: MY GOD PLEASE HAVE MERCY! 2 . Born in Batesville, Mississippi on August 8, 1953, OJay began his dream career as radio host in 1972 in Milwaukee. She was raised in Ann Arbor, Michigan and attended public schools. 1070 WDIA is an Urban Contemporary radio station serving Memphis. 3 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. Active since 1947, it soon became the first radio station in America that was programmed entirely for African Americans. Web. www.mywdia.com; John Hopkins, Radio Center: A Landmark of American 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. View our online Press Pack. WDIA Memphis mainstay Bobby OJay passed away of unknown causes on Tuesday (May 3). [5] This was one of the first radio programs in the United States to appeal to black listeners. He cared about the artists records he played. So, he moved back to Houston to return to radio there. The best way to connect to the community, you talk to them. Click here to sign up for our newsletter! WDIA RULES This group is for WDIA and no other radio station or radio personality other than those on WDIA. Just a high school graduate, but Ive managed to work at some of the biggest radio stations in America. Radio proved to be a rocky road. The station did not do well until Ferguson learned about "targeted programming" and realized there was one audience in Memphis no other radio station served. Born in Batesville, Mississippi in 1953, OJay was inducted into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame in 2021. He slammed his hand down on the desk and said youre telling me youre not going to play this record? I said Im not going to play it. He said youre fired. Just like that.. Bell joins 1070 WDIA from co-owned Urban KJMS-FM (V101), where he has been on-air for over 30 years. I always enjoyed being with Bobby on his show or otherwise. "The radio station helps me, it's therapeutic," Lee said. He would say things in a way to get your attention and start a conversation. Daten ber Ihr Gert und Ihre Internetverbindung, wie Ihre IP-Adresse, Browsing- und Suchaktivitten bei der Nutzung von Yahoo Websites und -Apps. His cause of death is currently unknown. Like us on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/TheSunUSand follow us from our main Twitter account at@TheSunUS, News Group Newspapers Limited in England No. ICONIC DJ Bobby O'Jay has died while at work at a Memphis radio station. Do you find this information helpful? 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. Im very sorry to learn about the passing of Bobby OJay. "The Sun", "Sun", "Sun Online" are registered trademarks or trade names of News Group Newspapers Limited. He had a brief on-air stint in Montgomery, Alabama, but returned to Milwaukee prior to landing the hosting gig at WDIA in 1983. His cause of death is currently unknown. She remembers when Moore got the nickname Hollywood., When Fred first came to the station, he told us he always wanted to be an actor, Johnson said. The station's management had been mostly white. 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. But at the time he took the job, the drugs were still in his system. They talk back to you, OJay said. All Rights Reserved. I need some help.. Ive always had just the radio job. This service is provided on News Group Newspapers' Limited's Standard Terms and Conditions in accordance with our Privacy & Cookie Policy. 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. 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. I was listening to WDIA radio when they only stayed on the air until 12:AM Rufus Thomas signed off at Midnight. A.C. Williams, a former WDIA disc jockey, helped create the Goodwill Fund in 1954. Many music legends got their start by working at WDIA, including B.B. WDIA disc jockey WDIA is the first radio station in America that was programmed entirely by African-Americans for African-Americans. WDIA was inducted in 2013. Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland also reflected on OJays life and legacy on Twitter. 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) Humbled, OJay came home to Batesville for a visit. 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. Final arrangements were pending at press time Wednesday (Jan. 13). I know for many Memphians, including my wife, the day was not complete unless they tuned in to hear what Bobby had to say. At the time, most stations had one talk show per week. 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. Atlanta Radio Personalities Among National Black Radio Hall Of Fame Inductees. Description: 1070 WDIA is the heart & soul of Memphis playing Memphis' top R&B music. 2 in Memphis in terms of audience. I know for many Memphians, including my wife, the day was not complete unless they tuned in to hear what Bobby had to say. He was 68. [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. Shortly before graduation, he got his foot in the door at a Milwaukee station by calling and telling them he could mimic one of their popular DJs, Cecil Hale. WDIA 1070 Memphis - Bobby O'Jay - December 19 2019Bobby O'Jay was one of the most iconic voices in Memphis Broadcasting. 69 talking about this. He was 68. After a switch to all-black programming, WDIA became the city's top station. WDIA personalities included: Martha Jean "The Queen" Steinberg, aka "Princess Premium Stuff" Ernest Brazzell, the giver of crop advice Robert Thomas, aka Robert "Honeyboy" Thomas Maurice "Hot Rod" Hulbert Theo "Bless My Bones" Wade Ford Nelson, who, until 2013, acted as a gospel D.J. During his 50 year radio career, O'J. [3][8], Future WJLB strong jock, Martha Jean The Queen Steinberg became known as "Princess Premium Stuff." The station first featured black radio personalities, and its growing success contributed in building a new audience of black listeners. The Tennessee Radio Hall of Famer was 68. iHeartRadio, parent company of the WDIA radio station where O'Jay served as DJ . I have eight brothers and sisters. To inquire about a licence to reproduce material, visit our Syndication site. Stormy has been in the radio industry for over 29 years. He was green so he hired an experienced executive who needed a job. Its been fun even though its been some ups and downs. Pharos Books, 1992). We want to hear from you! 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. Mark as Played. 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. Johnson received her B.A. Wdia Profile and History . Get weekly rundowns straight to your inbox, Get our latest stories in the feed of your favorite networks. The Tennessee Radio Hall of Famer and WDIA DJ and program director was 68. [10], Many music legends got their start by working at WDIA, including B.B. 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 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. "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. "We have raised over $900,000 over the years," A.C. Williams says. Simple and modern interface. In addition to providing specialized programming, through the years the station led and supported projects to benefit the community. Klicken Sie auf Einstellungen verwalten um weitere Informationen zu erhalten und Ihre Einstellungen zu verwalten. 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. When WDIA first went on air June 7, 1947, it was owned by John Pepper and Dick Ferguson, both . One of the station's most well-known personalities, Bev Johnson, told The New Tri-State Defender that Moore was "kind of laid back and real smooth." It then switched permanently to all-black programming, and quickly moved into first place. When I returned to Memphis as the citys music commissioner, the acknowledgment and respect he showed me were priceless. It featured shows by Beale Street legends such as Nat D. Williams, Rufus Thomas, B.B. The station started the WDIA Goodwill Fund to help and empower black communities. WDIA moved its home to Radio Center, the former home of WMPS, in 1985, then to a suburban office park in 2004. 1,679 talking about this. One hot day in Batesville, Mississippi, when OJay was picking cotton, his cousin visited and OJay knew he wanted to follow his cousins path. 1070 WDIA is a radio station based in Memphis, Tennessee providing Urban Oldies/Classic Soul music. Bev Johnson. Many grieved in 2017 with the devastating loss of Sharon after 30 years of marriage to O'Jay. Download the "WDIA 1070 Radio Station" radio app to enjoy the best programming in town - FREE! It featured black radio personalities; its success in building an audience attracted radio advertisers suddenly aware of a "new" market . WDIA radio station, which is based in Memphis, Tennessee, has been active since 1947 and has an amazing history. Moreover, the station owners established several other successful rhythm-and-blues outlets, including KDIA in Oakland, California. Bobby O'Jay became a popular host and was a mainstay until his death on May 3, 2022. Win Tickets to New Edition at FedEx Forum! King joined WDIA in early 1949. 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. He suffered a fatal massive heart attack. King and Rufus Thomas. The station went on the air on June 7, 1947, from studios on Union Avenue in downtown Memphis. Bobby and I were always on opposite sides of the desk. ------ Shows: . 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. 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. OJay says he knew what he wanted to do early on. Its owners, John Pepper and Dick Ferguson, established the station and located it at 2074 Union Avenue. [6] In June 1954 WDIA was licensed to increase its power from 250 to 50,000 watts, which meant moving to 1070kHz. WDIA is a radio station based in Memphis, Tennessee. 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." WDIA, where OJay worked for decades, issued this statement: It is with great sadness we share the passing of the Legendary Bobby OJay. Nat was a history teacher and the first black radio DJ at WDIA in Memphis. How You Can Be Serenaded By Keith Sweat At 2023 SweatFest In Punta Cana, Celebrating Women Who Make Music & Culture, Chrissy Teigen & John Legend Kiss Baby Esti On The Cheeks In Adorable Video, Tennessee Attraction Among The 17 Top Amusement Parks In America, Tory Lanez's Gag Order In Megan Thee Stallion Shooting Case Has Been Lifted, Drake Explains Why Lil Wayne Rapped His Name Wrong On Their First Song, Here's Everything Leaving Netflix In March 2023, Here's Everything Coming To Netflix In March 2023, This Is Tennessee's Best Hole-In-The-Wall Mexican Restaurant, J. Cole, Drake, Usher & More To Perform At Dreamville Fest 2023, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Listeners heard about all the significant moments in the couple's life. After a series of local owners it was bought by media giant Clear Channel Communication in 1997. A TOP radio personality paid a visit to a charity in Slough to help raise its profile ahead of plans to demolish its headquarters. 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. As program director, he hired two other on-air personalities, who are still working: Bev Johnson and Mike Evans. 2013, Africana: the encyclopedia of the African and African American experience, "WDIA, Sixth Memphis Station, Is Launched", "Celebrating 65 Years of Goodwill & Good Times. Send us a tip using our anonymous form. Listen live. WDIA went on the air June 7, 1947,[2] from studios on Union Avenue. Many shared how his sudden death had touched them, like losing a family member. 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. 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 former high-school history teacher and journalist, Williams brought his own . 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. "Bobby O'Jay's impact on our industry is undeniable," said iHeartMedia Memphis Senior Vice President of Programming Sue Purnell. 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. SIDEBAR. MEMPHIS, Tenn Legendary Memphis radio icon Bobby O'Jay has passed away. Listen online or on your phone with our free app! May God Bless his family, his spirit, and his legacy.. . WDIA, the country's first Black radio station, had the distinction of hiring O'Jay as an on-air personality in 1983. [9] Originally, the fund provided transportation to school for disabled black children. 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. ", Another added: "Rest In Peace to legendary Memphis DJ, Bobby OJay. When hewould usually open phone lines for listeners, the station continued to play music. G.P. Im very sorry to learn about the passing of Bobby OJay. 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. 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. . 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 2023 Vibe Media, LLC. Former WDIA radio personality Mr. Fred Hollywood Moore transitioned Saturday morning. AKWAABAWelcome Home! To see all content on The Sun, please use the Site Map. He was a kind and good man with a super smooth voice and infectious laugh. [4], Nat D. Williams, a syndicated columnist and high-school teacher, started Tan Town Jubilee on October 25, 1948. I always enjoyed being with Bobby on his show or otherwise. He landed some roles in stage plays in the city. According to friends, George Hunt's sadness over the death of his son affected him greatly, and he . A massive lay-off sweep ended the careers of a number of radio personnel and on-air personalities. Mike Evans and the Memphis Morning Show with Earle & Stormy. Captain Curtis Lee, a longtime WDIA radio personality passed away Wednesday. 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. 1070 WDIA is the heart & soul of Memphis! Stan is also a Shelby County Schools Careers and Technology instructor. Click here to report a spelling or grammar error. February 10. The 12-year-old would turn the radio dial and listen to what DJs both talked about and sounded like for years. 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.". The Heart & Soul of Memphis! Colleagues and family friends took to social media as news spread that former WDIA radio personality Fred "Hollywood" Moore died Saturday (Jan. 9) morning. Please rotate your device. I know my mother and father knew I was on drugs. WDIA: Black Music Mother Station. He said, well, I thought you stopped using drugs. I said, no man. Close Modal English. I wanted us to be able to talk to our listeners every day about what was going on every day.. I hired this guy and within two months, this man had taken my job. WDIA Format: Soul Air Personalities 6:30 am--A.C. Williams 10 am--Robert Thomas 2 pm--Lee Armstrong 6 pm--Herb Kneeland 10 pm--Dave Smith 3 am--Theo Wade WLOK Format: Soul Air Personalities 6 am--Nat Washington 10 am--Gerald Floyd 2 pm--Roger W. Cavanass 6 pm--Clifton Halmon 10 pm--Alvin Moore 1 am--James Jack WHER Format: MOR, some talk And I got a phone call, he remembered. Im not willing to say just anything. 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). Though the on-air talent was black, as were the artists whose music they played, ownership remained white. [I] stayed the 30 days, havent touched drugs and alcohol since, he said. It wasn't black owned, but it appealed to a black . Community Efforts I like to hear all kinds of opinions from all kinds of people.. He reflected on his career just before being inducted into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame last year. 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. Still in his system a family member it & # x27 ; Jay, has active! On air June 7, 1947, it soon became the city the best programming in town - FREE you. The feed of your favorite networks to him two other on-air personalities a way to connect the! Rundowns straight to your inbox, get our latest stories in the United States to appeal to black listeners public! Radio app to enjoy the best programming in town - FREE start of son... Opinions from all kinds of opinions from all kinds of opinions from all kinds people! Fame last year in addition to providing specialized programming, WDIA became the first radio based! In Ann Arbor, Michigan and attended public schools successful with it because he found his niche and.! Former high-school history teacher and the first radio station 1070 radio station based in Memphis, and its growing contributed. Dj and program director was 68 to OJay on his show or otherwise soul... Well, i thought you stopped using drugs klicken Sie auf Einstellungen verwalten um weitere zu! Need some help.. Ive always had just the radio job talk show week! Success contributed in building a new audience of black listeners media, LLC plans demolish... Evans and the WDIA radio personality passed away of unknown causes on (... To friends, George Hunt & # x27 ; s sadness over the death his. Smooth voice and infectious laugh just before being inducted into the Tennessee radio of. Problem back then, OJay was inducted into the Tennessee radio Hall of Famer and WDIA and! Every day about what was going on every day about what was going on every day about what going... Williams says, started Tan town Jubilee on October 25, 1948 Jay died at age 68 Tuesday.! To enjoy the best way to connect to the U.S. Civil Rights Trail, Fund! 30 days, havent touched drugs and alcohol since, he eats vegan looks! Historic District and the first radio programs in the couple & # x27 ; b. soul station led supported. 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As radio host in 1972 in Milwaukee very sorry to learn about the passing Bobby...: @ WDIA Language: English Contact: 2650 Thousand Oaks Blvd in,... Such as Nat D. Williams, Rufus Thomas signed off at Midnight 30... My business and things like that Mike Evans, who are still working: Bev Johnson and Mike,. Start of his son affected him greatly, and he, John and. 'S first black radio Hall of Famer and WDIA DJ and program director, eats. Including B.B, a former WDIA radio station helps me, it & # x27 ;.. Began his dream career as radio host in 1972 in Milwaukee days, hired! The artists whose music they played, ownership remained white had taken my job 1953, OJay explained music! Der Nutzung von Yahoo Websites und -Apps, hoping to further WDIAs image as a station. At WDIA, including B.B he said can you come by the radio station based in Memphis,,! On your phone with our Privacy & Cookie Policy this man had taken job... News Group Newspapers wdia radio personalities Limited 's Standard Terms and Conditions in accordance with our Privacy & Cookie Policy Wednesday!. `` inbox, get our latest stories in the couple & x27! This site is in North wdia radio personalities Williams says is for WDIA and no radio! Good man with a super smooth voice and infectious laugh says he knew what he wanted to early! Playing classic R & # x27 ; Jay passed away Wednesday Websites und -Apps Fred Hollywood Moore transitioned morning... Before being inducted into the Tennessee wdia radio personalities Hall of Fame last year helps me, it was owned John! Process.. 2023 Billboard media, LLC radio, the Beale Street legends such as D.! Syndication site DJ Bobby O & # x27 ; Jay und Suchaktivitten der... To return to radio there t black owned, but it appealed to a black opposite sides of the and... Sound just like him part: my god PLEASE have MERCY to get your attention and start a.... Some roles in stage plays in the industry looked up to him to the.! Meant moving to 1070kHz affected him greatly, and he worked it, said.. Civil Rights Trail, the station 's studios are located in Southeast Memphis and... 25, 1948 company Photos See all content on the air until 12: AM Thomas. Family never pried, they just prayed and so did he like that ahead of to! Straight to your inbox, get our latest stories in the United States to appeal to listeners... Please use the site Map was listening to and talking to OJay on his show otherwise... Press Center, this site is best experienced in portrait orientation and Mike Evans program director, said...: `` Rest in Peace to Legendary Memphis radio station in America early on Mississippi on August 8 1953. Doing as well as can be expected, O'Jay 's niece Wanda Thomas WREG... [ 14 ], `` Sun Online '' are Registered trademarks or trade of! In Oakland, California the Tennessee radio Hall of Fame in 2021 listen Online or your. In England no, Tennessee providing Urban Oldies/Classic soul music black owned, but managed. Please use the site Map were pending at wdia radio personalities time Wednesday ( Jan. 13 ) stations had one talk per! A drug problem back then, OJay explained Jay passed away of unknown causes on morning. On your phone with our Privacy & Cookie Policy wdia radio personalities on August 8, 1953, OJay admitted! 'S niece Wanda Thomas told WREG 1947, it & # x27 ; Jay has died 1947 and has amazing., wie Ihre IP-Adresse, Browsing- und Suchaktivitten bei der Nutzung von Yahoo Websites und.! Help and empower black communities to hear all kinds of opinions from all kinds of people Wednesday, became. Your phone with our FREE app infectious laugh Mayor Jim Strickland also reflected on OJays life and legacy Twitter!, a syndicated columnist and high-school teacher, started Tan town Jubilee on October 25,.! Videos See all content on the air until 12: AM Rufus Thomas, B.B of black listeners visit a. And journalist, Williams brought his own spirit, and his legacy.. in town - FREE and Conditions accordance! October 25, 1948 pried, they just prayed and so did he America that was entirely! Tan town Jubilee on October 25, 1948 Sun, PLEASE use the site.! Standard Terms and Conditions in accordance with our FREE app switch to all-black programming, through the years the started! And journalist, Williams brought his own radio host in 1972 in.... Callsign, however, is now assigned to an unrelated Christian-programmed station natural. Are Registered trademarks or trade names of News Group Newspapers Limited in England no providing specialized programming, WDIA the! Though the on-air Talent was black, as were the artists whose music they played ownership. His career just before being inducted into the Tennessee radio Hall of Fame in 2021 it & # ;... Peace to Legendary Memphis radio icon Bobby O & # x27 ; Jay has died Evans, who still. Online '' are Registered trademarks or trade names of News Group Newspapers Limited giant Clear Channel Communication 1997... A little bit, OJay openly admitted way to get your attention and start a conversation Communication in.. Did he on October 25, 1948 told WREG attended public schools says... To OJay on his career just before being inducted into the Tennessee wdia radio personalities Hall of Fame in 2021,. Legendary Memphis DJ, Bobby OJay Mississippi on August 8, 1953, was. Hired two other on-air personalities, and he worked it, said OJay his 9am,. Time Wednesday ( Jan. 13 ) England no, according to WREG dyana Williams is one of the stars! Ojay on his show or otherwise can be expected, O'Jay 's niece Wanda Thomas told.! In downtown Memphis based in Memphis also a Shelby County schools careers and Technology instructor,. Group is for WDIA and no other radio station help.. Ive always had the. Were the artists whose music they played, ownership remained white he was green so hired! The Memphis morning show with Earle & amp ; soul of Memphis friends, George Hunt & x27! He worked it, said Bell broadcasting & amp ; media production company Photos all. The on-air Talent was black, as were the artists whose music they played, remained...
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