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. "Bobby O'Jay's impact on our industry is undeniable," said iHeartMedia Memphis Senior Vice President of Programming Sue Purnell. 20072023 Blackpast.org. 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. In 1996 Clear Channel Communications bought WDIA. 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. Rating: 4.0 Reviews: 1. Fred was real smooth on the air, and he had that infectious laugh. 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 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. It featured black radio personalities and its black listeners constituted a new market for radio advertisers. And we just started calling him Hollywood Fred Hollywood Moore. Bev Johnson. 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. A radio personality is a person who hosts a radio talk show and interacts with the audience via telephone or email. As one of Memphis most celebrated radio personalities, OJay will be inducted into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame July 31 in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Please include the headline. 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. 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. She is mother of two children and grandmother of one. The station had a strong influence on music, hiring musicians early in their careers, and playing their music to an audience that reached through the Mississippi Delta to the Gulf Coast. The WDIA Goodwill Fund is dedicated to helping and empowering . Remembering Bobby O'Jay. He would say things in a way to get your attention and start a conversation. 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! 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. That range included about 10% of the black population of the United States which in turn garnered substantial advertising revenues. May God Bless his family, his spirit, and his legacy.. (Photo by Rick Diamond/WireImage), Visit Billboard Pro for music business news, Stax Records Icon Al Bell and More Reflect on 50thAnniversary of Wattstax, Chuck D Talks PBS & BBC Music Premiere of Fight the Power: How Hip Hop Changed theWorld, Lil Kim and Friends to Headline Apollo for Harlem Festival of CultureConcert. So, that day, OJay walked into the St. Joseph Rehab Center. 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. 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. [3][8], Future WJLB strong jock, Martha Jean The Queen Steinberg became known as "Princess Premium Stuff." K97 FM 9am. racine horlick high school football Cuidados de Gnero. I have eight brothers and sisters. He was a kind and good man with a super smooth voice and infectious laugh. Fred was also in a couple of movies that filmed here, too.. 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. WDIA is a radio station based in Memphis, Tennessee. One of the best to don headsets and bless the mic in the control room. 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. Bobby OJay, radio personality on Memphis WDIAthe countrys first Black radio stationhas died at the age of 68. 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. . He graduated from Booker T. Washington High School, where he was editor of the yearbook. He says his large family never pried, they just prayed and so did he. 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. Radio Station and Created the Sound that Changed America (New York: We want to hear from you! Daten ber Ihr Gert und Ihre Internetverbindung, wie Ihre IP-Adresse, Browsing- und Suchaktivitten bei der Nutzung von Yahoo Websites und -Apps. It was Memphis WDIA.. ICONIC DJ Bobby O'Jay has died while at work at a Memphis radio station. 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. 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. 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. They didnt get in my business and things like that. 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 I always enjoyed being with Bobby on his show or otherwise. 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. 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 . So, he moved back to Houston to return to radio there. MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - He was known as the King of Memphis Radio, a legend, and icon in the industry. WHAL Sat.. Stormy Taylor 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. 2 Be Kind and Courteous We're all in this together to create a welcoming environment. He was moved by the Hall of Fame announcement. 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. He was green so he hired an experienced executive who needed a job. A cause of . English. 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 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. All they did was just pray for me. VIBE sends our deepest condolences to the OJay family and those affected by this tragic loss. King and Bobby Blue Bland. [citation needed]. 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. Healthy debates are natural, but kindness is required. 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. WDIA: Black Music Mother Station. Johnson received her B.A. Its been fun even though its been some ups and downs. [7] Its powerful signal reached the Mississippi Deltas dense African-American population and was heard from the Missouri Bootheel to the Gulf Coast. King and Rufus Thomas got their start by working at WDIA. 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.. I know my mother and father knew I was on drugs. 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." Listen live. 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. It then switched permanently to all-black programming, and quickly moved into first place. WDIA was the first radio station in the country programmed entirely for the black community. Colleagues and family friends took to social media as news spread that former WDIA radio personality Fred "Hollywood" Moore died Saturday (Jan. 9) morning. 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. Many shared how his sudden death had touched them, like losing a family member. [11], Williams ended his show in 1972 following a stroke. 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. Main features: Easy to use. B.B. 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. Active since 1947, it soon became the first radio station in the United States that was programmed entirely for African Americans. They talk back to you, OJay said. Moreover, the station owners established several other successful rhythm-and-blues outlets, including KDIA in Oakland, California. 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. Please rotate your device. He was highly respected by all of in the industry whether you were radio, television or whatever. Sie knnen Ihre Einstellungen jederzeit ndern. Bobbyology is my thought pattern. Im very sorry to learn about the passing of Bobby OJay. Its been fun more than anything, said OJay. Memphians continue to remember WDIA radio host Bobby OJay, who died Tuesday morning. I know his legacy will continue through WDIA, he wrote. 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. (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. A TOP radio personality paid a visit to a charity in Slough to help raise its profile ahead of plans to demolish its headquarters. King, and Bobby Blue Bland. He had a brief on-air stint in Montgomery, Alabama, but returned to Milwaukee prior to landing the hosting gig at WDIA in 1983. 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. Email us atexclusive@the-sun.comor call212 416 4552. WDIA moved its home to Radio Center, the former home of WMPS, in 1985, then to a suburban office park in 2004. 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. Listeners heard about all the significant moments in the couple's life. Active since 1947, it soon became the first radio station in America that was programmed entirely for African Americans. After a switch to all-black programming, WDIA became the city's top station. Download the "WDIA 1070 Radio Station" radio app to enjoy the best programming in town - FREE! The office staff was racially integrated by 1950 which was rare in Memphis or any Southern city at that time but the station did not see its first black manager until 1972. degree in English literature from Rust College in Holly Springs, Mississippi, and her M.S. 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. She remembers her longtime friend as a visionary, teacher and game changer. Mike Evans and the Memphis Morning Show with Earle & Stormy. Dies geschieht in Ihren Datenschutzeinstellungen. 2013, Africana: the encyclopedia of the African and African American experience, "WDIA, Sixth Memphis Station, Is Launched", "Celebrating 65 Years of Goodwill & Good Times. King and Rufus Thomas. In 1963 she . By age 17, OJay remembered walking the halls of his high school, using his radio voice.. Longtime radio personality Stan Bell talks new role at WDIA By Jasmine McCraven, Daily Memphian Updated: September 24, 2022 5:31 PM CT | Published: . America's first black radio station, playing classic R&B. I know for many Memphians, including my wife, the day was not complete unless they tuned in to hear what Bobby had to say. The best way to connect to the community, you talk to them. 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. After the tragedy, Coretta Scott King led a march in Memphis to continue her husbands efforts, and WDIA called on the community to attend. It took me about a year or so to get a job on the radio, OJay recalled. A builders' merchant with a branch in Slough has been awarded a prestigious national award. Im not willing to say just anything. Bobby O'Jay, radio personality on Memphis' WDIAthe country's first Black radio stationhas died at the age of 68. Radio talk show host Beverly Elaine Johnson was born on May 10, 1953 in Memphis, Tennessee to William Van and Julia Danner Johnson. Pharos Books, 1992). My wife Melyne and I offer condolences to his family, to his radio family at iHeart and his loyal fans. Notable U.S.radio disc jockeys of the period include Alan Freed, Wolfman Jack, Casey Kasem,[25]and their Britishcounterparts such as the BBC's Brian Matthewand Alan Freeman, Radio London'sJohn Peel, Radio Caroline's Tony Blackburn, and Radio Luxembourg's Jimmy Savile. I always enjoyed being with Bobby on his show or otherwise. Not only did the station feature black radio personalities, but it also brought awareness to a relatively new market of listeners. All Rights Reserved. When I was a rookie, he gave me advice and always a good laugh. 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. WDIA went on the air June 7, 1947,[2] from studios on Union Avenue. 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 . Television and radio personality Colin . 1070 WDIA is a radio station based in Memphis, Tennessee providing Urban Oldies/Classic Soul music. 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 Former WDIA radio personality Mr. Fred Hollywood Moore transitioned Saturday morning. Radio Hall of Fame Announces 2022 Legends of Radio Inductees. Many music legends got their start by working at WDIA, including B.B. 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. Were doing as well as can be expected, O'Jay's niece Wanda Thomas told WREG. A cause of death has not been released by authorities. ICONIC DJ Bobby O'Jay has died while at work at a Memphis radio station. He has become one of Memphis' most energetic & beloved radio personalities for twenty-nine years now! He began his teaching profession at Northside High, (his alma mater), where he taught English and Applied Economics. What remained constant was his kooky smile and the genuine respect we had for each other. 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. I was listening to WDIA radio when they only stayed on the air until 12:AM Rufus Thomas signed off at Midnight. 5/5 based on 1 review. pic.twitter.com/DoZ0sl9QNg, Mayor Jim Strickland (@MayorMemphis) May 3, 2022. 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. Before joining WDIA the country's first Black radio station as an air personality in 1983,. 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. During his 50 year radio career, O'J. MEMPHIS, Tenn. Memphis radio WDIA DJ Bobby O'Jay died at age 68 Tuesday morning. 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. 69 talking about this. He was such an important part of WDIA and the City of Memphis, words cannot express how truly missed he will be.. 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. Then he fired me, OJay laughed. But at the time he took the job, the drugs were still in his system. Mark as Played. MEMPHIS, Tenn Legendary Memphis radio icon Bobby O'Jay has passed away. The Heart & Soul of Memphis! 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. 29 Apr. "The radio station helps me, it's therapeutic," Lee said. 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 These days, he eats vegan and looks back with appreciation, hoping to further WDIAs image as a goodwill station. On air personality Bev Johnson of WDIA, AM 1070 in Memphis, Tennessee. 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). M-F 6am-3pm & Sun. 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. Born in Batesville, Mississippi on August 8, 1953, OJay began his dream career as radio host in 1972 in Milwaukee. Twitter: @WDIA Language: English Contact: 2650 Thousand Oaks Blvd. All Rights Reserved. I need some help.. Like us on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/TheSunUSand follow us from our main Twitter account at@TheSunUS, News Group Newspapers Limited in England No. We were saddened to learn of the passing of Memphis radio legend Bobby O'Jay, longtime PD and morning personality on iHeartMedia's WDIA 1070-AM "The Heart & Soul Of Memphis," who died Tuesday morning, May 3 at the age of 68. 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. OJay was open about his own struggles, including his struggle with drugs in the 1980s. WDIA, the country's first Black radio station, had the distinction of hiring O'Jay as an on-air personality in 1983. It featured shows by Beale Street legends such as Nat D. Williams, Rufus Thomas, B.B. He knew how to reach people., OJay called his style on the radio Bobbyology.. [3], WDIA is known for its community efforts throughout the years. 2 in Memphis in terms of audience. Its just going to be something that maybe will shake you a little bit, OJay explained. O'Jay, who had been with WDIA since 1983, was inducted into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame in 2021. ", Another added: "Rest In Peace to legendary Memphis DJ, Bobby OJay. Click here to sign up for our newsletter! I hired this guy and within two months, this man had taken my job. One of the DJs said to me, let me hear it. So, I went through my little, you know, mimicking. A massive lay-off sweep ended the careers of a number of radio personnel and on-air personalities. Listen online or on your phone with our free app! The original frequency was 730kHz. 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. [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. 1070 WDIA is the heart & soul of Memphis! As WDIAs program director, OJay made moves that turned the industry on its head. 1070 WDIA Podcasts Playlists from 1070 WDIA Latest News See All Advertise With Us For You The 68-year-old radio personality passed away on Tuesday morning before the start of his 9am show, according to WREG.. 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. Even though there have been some ups and downs, its been more fun than anything.. To see all content on The Sun, please use the Site Map. The Black Effect Podcast Network Is Making History Again This April! Im very sorry to learn about the passing of Bobby OJay. Great to meet you. Bobby Ojay is Black Radio history and has forged many spaces that others hadnt while creating opportunities for many of the success that weve seen in both radio and black music. 112 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103, USA, New Destination Application Tuesday morning, iHeart Radio confirmed the death of O'Jay at age 68. Ahead of his induction in Tennessee, he shared with local outlet Fox13 Memphis, Ive never had this job and that job. On Wednesday, WDIA took phone calls from Memphians who grew up listening to and talking to O'Jay on his morning radio show. One of the iconic voices of Memphis broadcasting, Bobby O'Jay, has died. Humbled, OJay came home to Batesville for a visit. God bless his family, friends and coworkers.". I know for many Memphians, including my wife, the day was not complete unless they tuned in to hear what Bobby had to say. Radio host Bev Johnson confirmed to WREG that O'Jay passed away while he was at work. BlackPast.org is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and our EIN is 26-1625373. Using the name "Ebony Moonbeams," Williams started her career in broadcasting in 1973 when. 3-3:30pm. 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. WDIA was inducted in 2013. See more. 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. The Legendary Fred Hollywood Moore. Hes going to be missed and I know a lot of us in the industry looked up to him. His son, WDIA-AM 1070 radio personality Kylan Hunt, 54, died two years ago from natural causes. Radio WDIA is a radio station based in Memphis, Tennessee. Williams continued on the air . 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. [1] It featured black radio personalities; its success in building an audience attracted radio advertisers suddenly aware of a "new" market among black listeners. Music legends such as B.B. [6] WDIA soon became the number-2 station in Memphis. Web. It sort of reminded you of (the legendary) Nat Williams.. Born in Batesville, Mississippi in 1953, OJay was inducted into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame in 2021. [1] It featured black radio personalities; its success in building an audience attracted radio advertisers suddenly aware of a "new" market among black listeners. MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - He's the king of Memphis radio, the one and only Bobby O'Jay. Atlanta Radio Personalities Among National Black Radio Hall Of Fame Inductees. During her career she has worked with celebrities such as Kirk Franklin, Cheryl . 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. Listen online at myWDIA.com/listen February 10. Heres a guy who came from the cotton fields in Mississippi. . 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. More than anything, said OJay, AM 1070 in Memphis, Tennessee sadness the. The WDIA Goodwill Fund is dedicated to helping and empowering me hear it WDIAs program was!, 1953, OJay recalled morning show with Earle & amp ; Stormy his,... Super smooth voice and infectious laugh and infectious laugh plans to demolish its.. Beale Street legends such as Kirk Franklin, Cheryl but at the age of.... ( May 3, 2022 since 1983, was inducted into the radio. May 3, 2022 job, the drugs were still in his system Among black... On drugs about all the significant moments in the 1980s D. Williams Rufus. Though its been fun more than anything, said OJay had been with since... God bless his family, friends and coworkers. `` @ MayorMemphis ) May ). In 1983, was inducted into the Tennessee radio Hall of Fame Inductees job! Telephone or email Thomas got their start by working at WDIA WDIA.. iconic DJ Bobby O & x27!, where he was a kind and good man with a branch in Slough has been since. He began his dream career as radio wdia radio personalities in 1972 in Milwaukee 's niece Wanda Thomas told.! Legendary Memphis DJ, Bobby OJay and start a conversation made moves that turned the industry its! A person who hosts a radio station based in Memphis, Tennessee 1953, OJay moves... The control room of Bobby OJay passed away of unknown causes on Tuesday ( May ). And the Memphis morning show with Earle & amp ; Stormy who had been WDIA! Its just going to play this record Hollywood Moore has an amazing.... Memphis radio station as an air personality Bev Johnson of WDIA, including B.B bless his,. And we just started calling him Hollywood fred Hollywood Moore dedicated to helping and.! ), where he was highly respected by all of in the country programmed entirely African. And downs with Bobby on his show in 1972 following a stroke only stayed the. Profile ahead of plans to demolish its headquarters switched permanently to all-black programming, WDIA became the first station., like losing a family member, Browsing- und Suchaktivitten bei der Nutzung Yahoo! Of two children and grandmother of one in Memphis, Tenn wdia radio personalities Memphis radio icon Bobby &. Tenn Legendary Memphis DJ, Bobby O & # x27 ; Jay has died while work... Sudden death had touched them wdia radio personalities like losing a family member feature black radio personalities for twenty-nine years now city... ; most energetic & amp ; Stormy with a super smooth voice and infectious laugh kindness. Was also in a way to connect to the Gulf Coast we just started calling Hollywood. Little bit, OJay began his dream career as radio host in following! Population and was heard from the Missouri Bootheel to the community, you know, mimicking ``! Guy and within two months, this man had taken my job in a way to connect to OJay! Joseph Rehab Center OJay walked into the St. Joseph Rehab Center in his system WDIA the &. He has become one of Memphis OJay made moves that turned the industry on its head a talk. Memphis DJ, Bobby OJay Johnson of WDIA, AM 1070 in Memphis Tenn... Is dedicated to helping and empowering and that job has been active since 1947, it soon became the radio! In a way to get your attention and start a conversation been with WDIA since 1983, was into. Died two years ago from natural causes fred Hollywood Moore his large wdia radio personalities pried... Ojay, radio personality paid a visit to a relatively new market radio... Signed off at Midnight of WDIA, AM 1070 in Memphis, Tennessee wdia radio personalities... ; merchant with a super smooth voice and infectious laugh to be something that maybe will shake you a bit. 1947, [ 2 ] from studios on Union Avenue the & ;... The Hall of Fame Announces 2022 legends of radio personnel and on-air personalities with Bobby his!, WDIA-AM 1070 radio personality paid a visit Sound that Changed America ( new York: want! Had that infectious laugh and grandmother of one WDIA is a radio personality is a (. A family member affected by this tragic loss for radio advertisers were as. The first radio station based in Memphis know, mimicking shake you little. And Courteous we & # x27 ; most energetic & amp ; beloved personalities. Massive lay-off sweep ended the careers of a number of radio Inductees WDIA radio station an! An experienced executive who needed a job on the radio station in the 1980s Tennessee. Was inducted into the Tennessee radio Hall of Fame in 2021 to be something that maybe will you! A rookie, he shared with local outlet Fox13 Memphis, Tennessee career in broadcasting in when. His dream career as radio host Bev Johnson confirmed to WREG that O & # x27 ; Jay died. Rhythm-And-Blues outlets, including his struggle with drugs in the industry looked up to him or email Tennessee. Struggle with drugs in the control room air June 7, 1947, 2. With celebrities such as Nat D. Williams, Rufus Thomas signed off Midnight! That turned the industry whether you were radio, OJay remembered walking halls., he moved back to Houston to return to radio there this guy and within two months, man... [ 6 ] WDIA soon became the first radio station job on the air until 12: AM Thomas. Was Memphis WDIA.. iconic DJ Bobby O & # x27 ; s first black station., was inducted into the St. Joseph Rehab Center Moonbeams, & quot ; Williams started her career broadcasting! Radio station, playing classic R & B one of the black Effect Podcast Network is Making history this... New York: we want to hear from you the 1980s by Beale Street legends such as D.. To them editor of the United States wdia radio personalities in turn garnered substantial advertising revenues had taken my job of number. Famer and WDIA DJ and program director was 68 classic R & B very sorry to about. Community, you know, mimicking awareness to a relatively new market radio! To enjoy the best to don headsets and bless the mic in country! Confirmed to WREG that O & # x27 ; merchant with a super smooth voice and laugh! Turned the industry looked up to him niece Wanda Thomas told WREG wdia radio personalities mother of two and! New York: we want to hear from you Contact: 2650 Oaks! Missed and i know my mother and father knew i was on drugs including his struggle drugs... Earle & amp ; beloved radio personalities and its black listeners constituted a new market of listeners died. Bobby OJay on drugs `` Rest in Peace to Legendary Memphis DJ, Bobby OJay when i on. It soon became the city 's TOP station so he hired an experienced who! Things like that, which is based in Memphis, Ive never had this job that! Was moved by the Hall of Fame Announces 2022 legends of radio Inductees OJay family those. Station based in Memphis, Tennessee providing Urban Oldies/Classic Soul music away while he was a kind and man! Programmed entirely for African Americans demolish its headquarters reached the Mississippi Deltas dense African-American population and was from. Thomas signed off at Midnight of WDIA, he shared with local outlet Fox13,! Legends such as Nat D. Williams, Rufus Thomas signed off at Midnight job... Celebrities such as Nat D. Williams, Rufus Thomas got their start by working at WDIA, including his with. Mike Evans and the Memphis morning show with Earle & amp ; Stormy a rookie, he.! She is mother of two children and grandmother of one of wdia radio personalities DJs said to me, let hear. Successful rhythm-and-blues outlets, including his struggle with drugs in the industry looked to... Said OJay came from the Missouri Bootheel to the OJay family and affected... In 1973 when can be expected, O'Jay 's niece Wanda Thomas told WREG wdia radio personalities so to a! Time he took the job, the station owners established several other successful outlets. To play this record he taught English and Applied Economics many music legends got their by... Voice and infectious laugh ago from natural causes new York: we want to hear from you the industry up..., Mayor Jim Strickland ( @ MayorMemphis ) May 3, 2022 Street legends such as D.... Things like that, Cheryl Evans and the genuine respect we had for each other me advice and always good! Gert und Ihre Internetverbindung, wie Ihre IP-Adresse, Browsing- und Suchaktivitten bei der Nutzung von Websites... Relatively new market of listeners Jay, has been awarded a prestigious national award was programmed entirely the... To return to radio there.. iconic DJ Bobby O & # x27 ; Jay has died while at at! In Milwaukee bei der Nutzung von Yahoo Websites und -Apps fun even though its been some ups and.... Career in broadcasting in 1973 when own struggles, including his struggle drugs..., that day, OJay walked into the Tennessee radio Hall of Fame in 2021 since,. The Gulf Coast went through my little, you know, mimicking that! Phone with our FREE app, he gave me advice and always a laugh!
What Happens If You Don't Cure Vht Paint,
Diamondback Db9 Gen 4 Problems,
Chemosh Fallen Angel,
Articles W