Urban Radio Nation - Radio, Media, Music

Mina SayWhat Presents Power 99's Dance Team "The Power Squad"

2013-05-20T18:38:00.000-04:00

The Power Squad is a Youth Mentoring Program that Promotes Positivity Through Dance

Power 99 FM, Philadelphia's Hip Hop and R&B, announced today that Mina SayWhat from the “Rise & Grind Morning Show” is building a youth dance team to mentor girls. Power 99 FM's Dance Team: The Power Squad will focus on empowering young women through the art of dance by mentoring girls from middle school to college who have an interest in dance. The Power Squad will perform at various Power 99 events throughout the year.

The Power Squad is holding auditions on Friday, May 24, from 4-6 p.m. at Kingsessing Recreation Center located at 4901 Kingsessing Avenue in Philadelphia. Participants must maintain a GPA average of 2.3 and above.

"It's important for these young ladies to have positive guidance and influence in this stage of their lives. With schools closing and afterschool programs shutting down across the tri-state due to budget cuts, it’s more important than ever to offer a positive outlet for young women," said Mina SayWhat. "When I was in school there were many sports teams, dance teams and programs after school with good role models leading these organizations – I learned from being a part of those groups. I want to help these ladies grow, learn, mature and stay focused on what's important – one dance practice at a time."

Mina SayWhat is part of Power 99’s “Rise & Grind Morning Show,” which airs weekdays from 6-10 a.m., and includes Mikey Dredd and MuthaKnows. In addition to her on-air duties, she serves as Social Networking Manager for Power 99, WDAS-FM and WDAS-AM. Mina was raised by a single mother in a poor neighborhood in Union City, New Jersey. She received a full scholarship to the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communication at Syracuse University, where she began her radio career. Known as “Mina Mean,” she spent four years on WJPZ 89.1 Syracuse, one of the top college radio stations in the country. Following graduation she worked at SIRIUS Satellite Radio and quickly moved up from Music Director, Social Media Coordinator to Program Director for three different stations. Mina landed her own show, The Warm Up on Sirius/XM The Heat, and has been featured in countless blogs and magazines.

Fans can listen to Power 99 FM on the station’s website, power99.com, as well as on iHeartRadio.com and the iHeartRadio mobile app, Clear Channel’s all-in-one free digital listening service. iHeartRadio delivers everything listeners want in one free, fully-integrated service: instant access to more than 1,500 of the nation’s most popular live broadcast and digital-only radio stations from 150 cities, plus user-created custom stations inspired by favorite artists and songs. iHeartRadio also offers listeners a new “Perfect For” feature which allows users to choose from thousands of curated stations based on a range of moods and activities.

The Breakfast Club Power 105.1 on Huff Post Live

2013-05-17T19:12:00.000-04:00

**Uncensored Interview Adult Language **
DJ Envy, Angela Yee, and Charlamagne Tha God, hosts of "The Breakfast Club" on New York's Power 105.1, join Marc Lamont Hill to discuss hip hop, celebrity news and what it takes to put on "the world's most dangerous morning show."

Legendary Rapper Doug E. Fresh Joins 107.5 WBLS

2013-05-17T18:00:00.000-04:00

New York's "#1 Source for R&B" Adds Classic Old School Hip Hop Show

Doug E. Fresh will host a classic hip-hop show titled "The Show" Saturday mornings from 9-11 a.m. on 107.5 WBLS in New York. The new program represents the second Classic Hip Hop show on the station's lineup. Classic Flavors with hosts Chubb Rock and DJ Bent Roc airs Saturday afternoons on the station as well from 5-7 p.m.

WBLS is the only Urban Adult Contemporary station in New York City. As such it is the only station positioned in the city (other than Gospel and Praise station 1190 WLIB) to appeal to the upper part of the 25-54 demo of African American listeners with music programming. Although they have gotten a ratings boost with the demise of 98.7 Kiss FM; the Tri-state area of metro New York is under served with African American programmed stations. WBLS has to fill-in the void in programming that is a lot different than other Urban AC/"Today's R&B and Classic Soul" stations across the country. The station also features Public Affairs programming on Sunday morning with "The Open Line" and Rev. Al Sharpton in addition to Sunday evening's "The Gary Byrd Experience" with Imhotep Gary Byrd. It's the longest running radio program in New York City.

The Rickey Smiley Morning Show Returns Home to 95.7 Jamz Birmingham

2013-05-13T01:30:00.000-04:00

Smiley and co-host Ebony Steele Return to the Station that started their radio careers

On Monday, May 13, 2013, Summit Media will transition The Rickey Smiley Morning Show, to the station where Smiley began his career in radio, 95.7 Jamz WBHJ, Birmingham. The Show moves from Power 102.1 to WBHJ 95.7 Jamz, simulcasting on both stations for one week.

Rickey Smiley was part of the initial morning show on 95.7 Jamz in the summer book of 1997, where the station promptly went to #1 in the demo and it has remained #1 since that time.

Elated about the return to his home station Smiley stated, “I was the one of the first talent on the station when it came on the air working as a comedian on the Buck Wilde Morning Show and the station has continued to do great things. I am really excited about helping to take it to another level with Dave DuBose and team. The Rickey Smiley Morning Show team will be heavily involved in all things Birmingham.”

Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Summit Media, LLC David R DuBose added, “We are super excited to welcome Rickey back home to 95.7 Jamz. Rickey started his radio career here in Birmingham with us, and we know listeners will love hearing Bernice, Lil Darryl, Granny, and his entire cast of characters as well as Ebony , who is also an alum of 95.7 Jamz. Rickey has always been one of Birmingham's hometown heroes and his love for the City has helped catapult him to the success he enjoys today, we are proud to have him back on our team.” David R DuBose, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Summit Media, LLC.

The Rickey Smiley Morning Show replaces "The Magic City Morning Show” which aired for the last time Friday morning. That show lasted less than a year after local comedian Roy Wood Jr. left the station to pursue other television opportunities in Hollywood. Wood replaced the long time and popular Buck Wilde morning show, when he left to 95.7 Jamz to bring his brand to the Dallas market on K104. Buck Wilde was eventually replace by the current morning show on K104 hosted by DeDe McGuire.

“You hate to see it go,” said former Magic City Morning Show co-host Jermaine “Funny Maine” Johnson to AL.com. “I know we’ve had a (local) morning show since I finished high school…it’s a big part of the city, but on the bright side, two 95.7 products are coming back home. This is Rickey and Ebony. These aren’t people we don’t know. These are two of our own.”

Rickey Smiley prank calls his uncle back in his Birmingham radio days...

...and another prank call.

Gabby Douglas, Candace Parker, Eve to Appear on Boxtorow

2013-05-10T00:31:00.000-04:00

It's about the ladies on this week's Boxtorow

On this Mother's Day weekend it's about the ladies on Boxtorow Lunch with Donal Ware and FROM THE PRESS BOX TO PRESS ROW.

Speaking of mother's one of the prominent athletes in the world who is a mom, two-time Gold Medalist superstar basketball player Candace Parker of
the L.A. Sparks will be a guest on Boxtorow.

Also Gold Medal gymnast Gabrielle Douglas and actress/rapper Eve will also be guests on Boxtorow.

Taking a bit of the pressure off host Donal Ware as the only male around such lovely ladies will be espn.com Miami Heat/NBA writer Mike Wallace.

Boxtorow Lunch is the sports talk show with a twist. The show talks
sports with some of the top entertainers in the business. Boxtorow Lunch airs Friday's 1-2p ET/12-1p CT/11a-12p MT/10-11a PT on SiriusXM Channel 141 H.U.R. Voices. The show is replayed on SiriusXM Channel 141 Sundays 10-11p ET and Tuesdays 8-9a ET.

Previous entertainment guests have included Aretha Franklin, Sanaa Lathan, Tyrese, Megan Good, Melanie Fiona, LisaRaye, Mark Paul-Gosselaar, Cedric the Entertainer, Charlie Wilson, Faith Evans, and Rakim to name a very few.

Sports guests over the years have included Serena Williams, Kevin Durant, Matt Kemp, Mike Krzyzewski, Jim Bown, and Mike Tryson to name a very few.

FROM THE PRESS BOX TO PRESS ROW has also picked up a new affiliate WVWI-AM 1000 in St. Thomas which covers all of the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

The show is also heard in top markets such as Washington, DC, Pittsburgh, Austin, TX, the Tidewater area (VA), Raleigh, NC and Greensboro, NC. The show can be heard on one of these radio stations www.boxtorow.com/affiliates.php or online Saturdays 1-2p ET, Noon-1p CT, 10-11a PT at www.boxtorow.com.

Boxtorow is one of two national sports talk shows that air on both Satellite and terrestrial radio (The Dan Patrick Show).

Tom Joyner is Back in Milwaukee on Jammin’ 98.3

2013-05-08T23:55:00.003-04:00

Joyner Added to the A.M., Skip Murphy Dropped from Afternoon Drive Time

Tom Joyner's weekday morning radio show is back in Milwaukee on Jammin’ 98.3 (WJMR), launching Monday, May 13 from 5am until 9am.

Joyner commented, “The best thing about good family and good friends is that, whenever we get together, we pick up right where we left off. So, even though it’s been awhile, we won’t miss a beat when we return to Milwaukee with my Jammin’ 98.3 family.”

Tom Joyner earned the nickname “The Fly Jock” and “The Hardest Working Man in Radio” by working long hours and flying between his morning job in Dallas, Texas and afternoon job in Chicago, Illinois every weekday for eight years. The Tom Joyner Morning Show, with co-hosts Sybil Wilkes and J. Anthony Brown, is heard on nearly 105 radio stations across the country each weekday. Over 8 million ears tune into the show on their favorite local radio station.

The Jammin’ 98.3 weekday line-up beginning Monday, May 13 will include Tom Joyner from 5am-9am, Andrea Williams from 9am-Noon, Earl Stokes from 2pm-7pm and Mike Hightower with “Moments in Love” from 7pm-Midnight.

Jammin’ 98.3 (WJMR) is a subsidiary of Saga Communications, Inc. whose business is devoted to acquiring, developing and operating broadcast properties. The company owns or operates broadcast properties in 26 markets, including five radio stations in Milwaukee, Wisconsin under the Lakefront Communications LLC name.

WBLS Moves and Cuts 'The Open Line' for More Music

2013-05-05T09:48:00.000-04:00

Co-host James Mtume says he moving on to new projects

WBLS (107.5) has decided that the popular Sunday morning talk show "The Open Line" needed to be cut down to a one hour show on Sunday morning. Promotional announcements airing on WBLS suggest that listeners want more music heard on the station.

As a result "The Open Line" has been reduced to a one hour program and airs from 8:00-9:00 a.m. instead of the former time slot of 10:00 a.m. - Noon. The show will continue with hosts Bob Slade and Bob Pickett however the show has lost host James Mtume. The show was originally launched on 98.7 Kiss FM (WRKS) in 1989 and was one of a few shows that transitioned over to WBLS when Kiss FM became ESPN Radio and made 'BLS became the only Urban AC station in New York City. More details from New York Daily News

Michael Baisden Off the Air Causes PD's to Re-Think Afternoons

2013-05-01T15:12:00.001-04:00

V101.9 Looks to Abandon The Skip Murphy Show with a contest

There was a time of day that one on-air personality and a tight playlist was all a radio station, particularly a Black radio station, needed to compete in the marketplace. However since the departure of Michael Baisden's syndicated afternoon radio show many program directors across the country have had to re-think what they want to offer their listeners in the afternoon.

With the advent of social media, listeners are begging for conversation on the news topics of the day that range from the recent buzz of free agent NBA player Jason Collin's admission of his gay sexual orientation to the rachetness of Love and Hip Hop or the Real Housewives of Atlanta.

CBS Radio's Urban AC station V101.9 (WBAV) in Charlotte is the latest station to hold an on air contest for their next afternoon host. This follows in the footsteps of WHUR in Washington and Hot 105 in Miami. Those two stations have decided not to air the Skip Murphy Show. (WHUR is now in their fifth week of their search.)

But before V101.9 launches their afternoon host contest, they are asking listeners to tell them what they want to hear out of their afternoon show. Currently V101.9 is airing Skip Murphy, a Charlotte, NC area native.

Given what Michael Baisden brought to the airwaves be it pro or con, he did make a mark in the urban radio landscape. Listeners are not only tuning in for music but also information and conversation. Afternoon drive time radio is sounding more and more like morning drive radio.

WDAS Midday Host Patty Jackson Opens Up About Health Issue That Almost Killed Her [VIDEO]

2013-05-01T15:01:00.000-04:00

Turning Point Came When Singer Jill Scott Stopped A Promo Event and Told Her "We Need to Talk"

During the last couple of month's listeners may have noticed that Patty's Jackson's on-air presentation was a little off. Some people knew there was something wrong with Patty but didn't quite know what it was. Now the Clear Channel radio personality who anchors the midday slot at 105.3 WDAS FM and is also heard in 16 other markets across the country, comes clean about the gum disease caused by veneers she had placed in her mouth years earlier. The results were life threatening. She wants to get her message out to others.

Patty Jackson talks about her career BEFORE she knew she had health issues

PHILADELPHIA -MyFOXPhilly.com Not much really shocks FOX 29's (reporter) Joyce Evans anymore. When one of her best girlfriends called up and said, "I need you to go on a journey with me," Evans says she meant bring a camera crew and viewers for a lesson that might save your life. Read the rest of this story from MyFOXPhilly.com

Patty Jackson Pre-Surgery Interview

Philadelphia News, Weather and Sports from WTXF FOX 29

See part 2 Below...**viewers may consider some of the images as graphic in nature**

Philadelphia News, Weather and Sports from WTXF FOX 29

WHUR Adds Local Favorite George Willborn and Doug Banks to 'Next Big Voice' Contest

2013-04-29T14:12:00.000-04:00

Former Baisden Sidekick Joins Doug Banks and DeDe McGuire

The syndicated Doug Banks Show has added Michael Baisden's former co-host George Willborn to the afternoon show. He will join Banks and DeDe McGuire. Willborn replaces comedian Rudy Rush.

Coming on the heels of the announcement, Washington, D.C. Urban AC station 96.3 WHUR is giving the show the opportunity to join the station's lineup as they continue to search in Week 5 for Washington's Next Big Voice.

WHUR has decided, along with some other urban stations across the country to not go with the Skip Murphy Show from Cumulus Media. Murphy had been brought in at the beginning of the month to replace Michael Baisden when contract negotiations between Cumulus and himself went sour.

Going syndication in Week 5 of the contest instead of local is somewhat of a surprise for the station that promotes itself as "Sounds Like Washington." So far Marc Clarke and Troy Johnson, Nikki Strong, Marc and Troy with Molette Green, and Frank Ski formerly of V-103 Atlanta have been part of the contest from the local studios of WHUR. We will see how the listeners will respond as many are requesting weekend host, long-time WPGC midday personality and Sirius XM radio host Michel Wright to get a shot during the contest.

Willborn is no stranger to WHUR as he co-hosted the popular "The Real DC Morning Show" on the station with Tony Richards and TC before the current Steve Harvey Morning Show was brought aboard. By the way The Doug Banks Show also currently airs on WHUR's HD2 channel "WHUR World." The show itself has quite frankly struggled to attract major markets as affiliates outside of V103 (WVAZ) in Chicago where Banks was a hugely popular local Chicago radio personality for many years. Bringing in Willborn may increase the show's ability to garner some of Micheal Baisden's former stations as their affiliates.

WHUR promotes this week's contestants:
"Doug Banks, DeDe McGuire, and George Willborn formerly of the Michael Baisden Show hit the airwaves with a variety of topics relevant to the 25-54 demographic. Doug is the radio veteran that initiates the topic of the day and solicits responses from the audience, DeDe’s is the voice of the independent woman and is not shy about expressing her opinion and the bad-boy style of George Willborn pushes the envelope on everything from romance to finance. With proven experience and ratings, The Doug Banks Team brings more music, more fun, and more entertainment than any team in the industry."

WNYC’s “Soundcheck” presents SOUNDCHECK LIVE: TALIB KWELI

2013-04-23T22:40:00.003-04:00

LIVE Webcast from New York City

On Wednesday, April 24, WNYC’s Soundcheck presents an intimate conversation and performance with Brooklyn-based rapper Talib Kweli, who will release his fifth album, Prisoner of Conscious, this May.

Soundcheck host John Schaefer will join Talib Kweli at The Jerome L. Green Performance Space for a conversation about the territory between the personal and the political --and about his myriad projects. Both as a solo artist hip-hop duo Black Star (with Yasiin Bey, formerly known as Mos Def), Kweli has become known for his broad-ranging lyrics and rapid-fire delivery throughout his 20-year career. His latest album includes guest appearances from artists like Kendrick Lamar, Miguel, Melanie Fiona and Busta Rhymes.

The LIVE webcast can be accessed at www.thegreenespace.com.

For those in New York, a limited number of tickets are still available. What: Soundcheck Live: Talib Kweli When: Wednesday, April 24, 2013 at 9:00 PM Where: The Greene Space (44 Charlton Street, NY, NY) Tickets: $15 Webcast: access at www.thegreenespace.org

Frank Ski, formerly of V-103, Hosts 'The Next Big Voice' on 96.3 WHUR

2013-04-22T17:49:00.000-04:00

Frank Ski Heads North for Week 4 of the Contest

WHUR welcomes to the Washington's Next Big Voice Contest Frank Ski, the former host of the top-rated morning show at Atlanta-based radio station V-103. Frank Ski hosted 'Frank and Wanda in the Morning' for 14 years (1998-2012) along with co-host Wanda Smith. Before going to Atlanta in 1998, Frank Ski gained notoriety just outside of D.C. at Baltimore's defunct V103 (WXYV) and rapping on B-More's early 90's club music classic "Doo Doo Brown."

From WHUR.com But take a look beyond the radio station and you’ll find somewhat of a renaissance man, whose accomplishments and interests are as broad and intriguing as the many subjects he covers every day. With an ever-growing list of talents, Frank Ski is a well-known journalist, producer and DJ, actor, motivational speaker, tireless philanthropist and most importantly – a husband to wife Tanya and father to four boys. Born in Harlem and reared in Miami, Frank continues to transcend barriers of race, creed and culture.

You can vote yay or nay at WHUR.com as the station seeks a replacement for the departed Michael Baisden Show.

Rick Party In the Afternoon on Miami's Hot 105

2013-04-22T16:23:00.000-04:00

Another Urban AC Station Goes Local, The Voice of BET Replaces Michael Baisden

Rick Party is no stranger to HOT 105 or Miami. “Twenty-two years ago, I came to HOT 105 just a kid with dreams of just having a Party on the radio”, said Party. “Fast forward 2013. This time around, I intend on making my impression felt as an inspiration in the lives of others, and of course a “Party” in the afternoon for many years to come.”

Party has built a devoted audience of fans throughout an enormously successful 26-year radio career. The Rick Party Show is his top-rated daily radio show that has gained respect from fellow industry professionals and has been recognized by various industry leaders and organizations.

Party entered the radio industry at the age of 15 years old with his first gig at Chicago Youth Center’s radio station, WCYC. With a drive to develop his talent and learn more about the technical side of radio, Party enrolled in the Columbia School of Broadcasting. With mounting on-air success and the tools learned in his studies at Columbia, it was apparent that Rick Party was destined to be in radio. WCYC appointed him station manager. From WCYC, Party’s first big break came with a position in Wilmington, NC at WBMS. From there he did stints in Chicago, New York, Atlanta, Dallas and Virginia.

Read more of this article at Hot 105...

Rick Party stars in and voices this commercial

Rick Party 1991 Dallas Radio Air Check

Mike Tyson and Movie Director Antoine Fuqua to Appear on Boxtorow

2013-04-16T23:12:00.000-04:00

Check out Tyson's Recent Interviews on HBO [VIDEO]

Former boxing heavyweight champion Mike Tyson and movie director Antoine Fuqua will appear on this week's FROM THE PRESS BOX TO PRESS ROW and Boxtorow Lunch with Donal Ware.

Tyson, who was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, is currently performing in the stage production "Mike Tyson: Undisputed Truth."

Antoine Fuqua, an avid sports fan who attended West Virginia State University on a basketball scholarship, directed the box office hit Olympus Has Fallen, which is currently in theaters. He also directed Training Day, where actor Denzel Washington won the Academy Award for Best Actor.

Boxtorow Lunch is the sports talk show with a twist. The show talks sports with some of the top entertainers in the business. Boxtorow Lunch airs Friday's 1-2p ET/12-1p CT/11a-12p MT/10-11a PT on SiriusXM Channel 141 H.U.R. Voices. Previous entertainment guests have included Aretha Franklin, Sanaa Lathan, Tyrese, Megan Good, Melanie Fiona, LisaRaye, Mark Paul-Gosselaar, Cedric the Entertainer, Charlie Wilson, Faith Evans, and Rakim to name a very few.

Sports guests over the years have included Serena Williams, Kevin Durant, Matt Kemp, Mike Krzyzewski, and Jim Bown to name a very few. Boxtorow Lunch with Donal Ware can be heard Fridays from 1-2p ET, Noon-1p CT, 11a-Noon MT, and 10-11a PT on H.U.R. Voices SiriusXM Channel 141. The show is replayed on SiriusXM Channel 141 Sundays 10-11p ET and Tuesdays 8-9a ET.

FROM THE PRESS BOX TO PRESS ROW with Donal Ware is heard in top markets such as Washington, DC, Pittsburgh, Austin, TX, the Tidewater area (VA), Raleigh, and Greensboro, NC.

The show can be heard on one of these radio stations www.boxtorow.com/affiliates.php or Saturdays 1-2p ET, Noon-1p CT, 10-11a PT at www.boxtorow.com

Mike Tyson in a recent interview on HBO Real Sports. Mike is an interesting guy.

96.3 WHUR Launches "Washington's Next Big Voice"

2013-04-01T17:53:00.000-04:00

The Station That Sounds Like Washington Goes Local in the Afternoon

Howard University's Urban AC station 96.3 WHUR has decided not to pick up the new syndicated Michael Baisden replacement program with Skip Murphy and Jasmine Sanders. Cumulus Media in an agreement with Reach Media has offered the new program to the former affiliates of the Michael Baisden program. However WHUR has decided to go in another direction by having listeners vote on their favorite program hosts over the next month. First up are Marc Clarke and Troy Johnson, the former hosts of Baltimore's 92Q Big Phat Morning Show. They currently host "The Hang Suite" on the weekend at WHUR.

Here's the PROMO from WHUR.com:

Monday – Friday from 3 pm to 7pm, a new team of local radio personalities will hit the airwaves on WHUR to showcase their talent and try to convince listeners why they should be “Washington’s Next Big Voice.” Listeners can vote for their favorite afternoon drive team.

Currently, heard Saturdays on WHUR 96.3FM from 8 pm – 12 am, Marc and Troy are the hosts of the ever-popular “Hang Suite.” The “Hang Suite,” which is also heard nightly on SiriusXM 141 HUR–Voices, is a hip, edgy, interactive, and upbeat show that includes the hottest party mixes from DJ Lonnie C, compelling conversations, and artist interviews. The dynamic duo has been paired up in radio markets stretching from St. Louis to Baltimore, endearing listeners with their award-winning blend of comedy and intellect.

We are wondering if this D.C. legend will make an appearance in the coming weeks?

Hot 107.9 Philly Introduces New Morning Show

2013-03-30T13:42:00.000-04:00

Philly's Morning Show with Shamara and Laiya

Radio One Philadelphia’s HOT 107.9 announces its brand new live and local morning show called Philly’s Morning Show “P.M.S” hitting the airwaves this Monday, April 1, 2013 at 6:00am. P.M.S will be hosted by Philly’s native daughter, Shamara, and her co-host a long time veteran of the Philadelphia airwaves, Laiya. The show will cover current events, pop culture mixed with trending topics on social media while playing the hottest hit music every weekday morning Monday through Friday from 6:00am – 10:00am.

Program Director, Sarah O’Connor adds “Women have been at the forefront over the last few years from Beyonce, First Lady Michelle Obama and to the hit TV franchise Real Housewives. So the idea of “P.M.S.” with Shamara and Laiya seemed only natural! This will be a show that is a voice for the community, relatable to women and LOVED by men!”

Radio One Regional Vice President, Christopher J. Wegmann states “Our listeners told us they wanted HOT 107.9 to be live, local and fun while playing today’s best music in the morning, they are getting that and so much more!

Director of Sales, Cassandra Banko says, “When the Program Director, Sarah O’Connor, came to me and said that she wanted to create an all female Morning Show, I told her I thought that was ingenious! I am so excited that April 1st will be the debut of P.M.S. featuring Shamara and Laiya. This is the first show of its kind in Philadelphia and we know that these two dynamic women will light up Philly Mornings!”

For more information on HOT107.9 please go to www.Hot1079philly.com

100.3 WRNB Philly Fires Everybody for R&B Format Tweak

2013-03-29T13:53:00.000-04:00

More Marvin Gaye, Earth, Wind & Fire, Patti LaBelle and Teena Marie on the way

If you go to the website RNBPhilly.com and look under the section for DJ's you'll find none.

That's because they have fired their entire air staff in anticipation of an announcement coming Monday, April 1st. The Radio One Urban AC station is expected to tweak their format of R&B music and feature more 70's and 80's"Old School" music as "Old School 100.3."

On air hosts Lady B and Dyana Williams are expected to return to the airwaves at some point, however if they will remain in their present time slots is not known at this time. WRNB will become Radio One’s fourth “Old School” station across the country joining stations in Charlotte, Dallas, and St. Louis.

As far as the impact on the industry goes, WRNB has been hammered in the ratings in Philadelphia when compared to heritage station 105.3 WDAS. Clear Channel station 'DAS has been a ratings winners even in a PPM environment by have low turnover in hosts and playing the same type of R&B favorites from the last 30 years. WDAS has ranked third consistently only behind the all-news station and the Mainstream AC station that gets a boost whenever it plays Christmas music. Steve Harvey of course leads in the morning, however before Harvey; Tom Joyner was featured on WDAS and he was Number 1 in the mornings too. You have to point to the music the stations plays as one of the main reasons why it has done so much better than WRNB, which played a newer mix and a wider range of R&B music (think Ledisi, Kem, and Maxwell). The Radio One station usually comings in at around 14th or 15th ranked.

New Station Logo for WRNB

African American Adult listeners who grew up on radio have proven time and time again that they are not really interested in listening to newer artists. They much rather listen to a radio station that plays the R&B artists they know well.

Russ Parr Chats with Tom Joyner on TV One's Premiere of “The Undershepherd” [AUDIO]

2013-03-29T09:31:00.001-04:00

TV One Airs the controversial movie twice over Easter Weekend

When you look at the title “The Undershepherd” you’re thinking ‘this is going to be a cute movie.’ It ain’t that kind of movie. -Russ Parr

From BLACKAMERICWEB.COM In “The Undershepherd,” radio personality and filmmaker Russ Parr takes on the black church and pastors who use their power for personal gain rather than helping their congregations. Parr told an audience at the American Black Film Festival last year, where the film premiered, that he met with some resistance in the black church but forged ahead anyway as the story needed to be told. The film won Best Narrative Feature, Best Actress and Best Director at the festival.

In “The Undershepherd,” Isaiah Washington of “Grey’s Anatomy” fame plays a Lawrence “LC” Case, a pastor looking to advance in the church who comes into conflict with his best friend, his lead pastor and ultimately, himself. Lanman Rucker plays Roland, a young pastor who realizes his friend has gone too far astray to help, and Malinda Williams is LC’s long-suffering wife who has problems of her own.

LISTEN HERE to the [AUDIO] from the Tom Joyner Morning Show

Skip Murphy with Jasmine Sanders Replaces Michael Baisden Across the Nation

2013-03-27T19:38:00.001-04:00

"Skip Murphy In The Afternoon Show" Begins Monday April 1st

CUMULUS MEDIA NETWORK AND REACH MEDIA PARTNER FOR A NEW PM DRIVE SHOW 3PM-7PM EASTERN TIME

Cumulus Media Networks and Reach Media are pleased to announce that beginning on Monday, April 1st, The Skip Murphy in the Afternoon Show will begin broadcasting on stations across the country from 3p-7p Eastern Time. Skip Murphy will team with Jasmine Sanders as co-host on the program featuring celebrity guests participating on a continuous basis. The Urban/R&B program will play hits from today, the 80’s and the 90’s.

Skip Murphy in the Afternoon will be upbeat, with humor, dishing on the latest trends, gossip and more. The music will provide the beat for an entertaining drive home. We will also begin testing more beloved and captivating personalities in the African American community in the entertainment category to be a part of the show.

The clock for Skip Murphy in the Afternoon as well as the satellite channel and automation will be identical to the Baisden show. There is nothing stations will need to do on their end to be ready for the show.

We are excited to have all our affiliates work with Cumulus and Reach Media on this project as we continue to bring quality programming to your markets that will drive ratings and revenue.

Skip Murphy is a radio veteran with over 30 years of broadcasting experience. His radio career began in his home town of Charlotte, N.C. After working as the morning man on WPEG in Charlotte, Murphy relocated to Dallas-Ft. Worth in 1993. Soon thereafter, he became the #1 rated morning show personality for over 10 consecutive years. Murphy has developed a formula for bringing together a top team of professionals to join him in the studio to produce a daily show that consistently remains fresh, entertaining and relatable to the listener.

Jasmine Sanders, seen nationwide on BET/Centric is co-host of the network’s show “Culturalist”, Jasmine has established herself as a prominent personality at New York’s WWFS 102.7 and also at WBLS, hosting the top-rated midday show. BET describes her as being known for her infectious personality and for her knack to make even the most private celebrities feel comfortable. She makes everyone, from listeners to guest feel like their listening to a friend. As the recipient of various career achievement awards including being named at the top of Girl’s Incorporated’s “Most Influential Women list. Jasmine Sanders is what’s hot today in radio.
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We say good hire by Cumulus...we wonder if Skip will work in some of "The Company" co-hosts (Nanette Lee, Wig, Sam Putney and Chris Arnold) from the successful Dallas-Ft. Worth radio morning show into his afternoon gig in the future. Skip has proven to be a favorite across the nation with his guest hosting appearances on the Tom Joyner Morning Show.

- - In a recent interview Jasmine Sanders talks about radio formats. Sanders who is originality from Tennessee landed the coveted midday slot in New York City on WBLS in 2007.

Michael Baisden Off the Air, Unable to Get a New Contract

2013-03-20T20:29:00.000-04:00

Was WBLS' rejection the Beginning of the End for Baisden?

That's a good question to ask...Almost a year ago the demise of 98.7 Kiss FM occurred and the station became ESPN Radio. Some of the programs and hosts were picked up by 107.5 WBLS, the only Urban Adult station in New York City. WBLS however decided not to picked up The Michael Baisden Show and continued to air Jeff Foxx in the afternoons. Baisden fought hard to have his show aired on 'BLS to no avail.

During his efforts he slandered urban radio by incredulously saying to anyone that would listen "Buffoonery Over Activism: Do we really prefer music and jokes over content?" He also went on to question African American audiences' ability to get to stories that matter (i.e. Trayvon Martin, Jena 6) if his show was no longer aired in New York City. His comments suggested that local media and hosts were incapable of doing the job.

Michael Baisden went to facebook to announce his departure from syndicated radio across the country this afternoon. He was unable to come to an agreement with Cumulus Media, the company that syndicates his program. The fact that his show no longer aired in New York City and most recently Philadelphia (another major market) contributed to the breakdown in Baisden getting a new contract.

Baisden said in an earlier post that he would be on the air until March 29th. However no multi-media company would ever give an outgoing radio host the opportunity to work up to the last day of a contract, especially when negotiations have broken off. For the time being, Cumulus will fulfill their committee to their affiliates and advertisers by broadcasting "Best of..." shows until the end of the month. What will happen after that is anyone's guess.

Michaels Baisden's statement from Facebook:
The Michael Baisden Show Staff has been "Locked Out" of Cumulus Studios...really Cumulus?

In the words of Rodney King, "Can't we all get along?" Just because we couldn't come to an agreement is no reason to deprive the listeners, our affiliates, and our advertisers of only 9 days to say goodbye and show our appreciation.

All their action does is make me more determined than ever to come back! And next time there will be no middlemen between me, my affiliates, and my listeners. Lesson learned!

Now it's time to get to work on the return of the Best Show On Radio... and I'll be kicking butt and taking names.

I'll miss you family, stay tuned to Facebook and Twitter for my daily inspiration post and updates on the return of The MB Show! The journey continues!!!

~ Michael Baisden

P.S. You'll hear per-recorded shows through March 29th. Shame, Shame, Shame... but it is what it is, let's move on, we have lots of work to do!Michael Baisden Commentary: It’s Not About The Job It’s About The Journey (Yes, I'm leaving radio)

Hot 107.9 Philly Announces New Morning Show Featuring Shamara and Laiya

2013-03-18T00:58:00.000-04:00

Hot 107.9 Goes Local with Veteran Female Hosts

Radio One Urban Hip Hop station Hot 107.9 (WPHI) announced over the weekend via Twitter that their NEW morning show "Philly's Morning Show" will launched on April 1st from 6a-10a with veteran and local on air hosts Shamara and Laiya.

Shamara was a long time and popular midday host at Urban rival WUSL Power 99 FM. Shamara was also recently heard on the weekends at Hip Hop/Pop station Wired 96.5 (WRDW). She uses the popular #Hi5Friend hashtag on twitter.

Laiya St. Clair is a former morning host at WPHI (when it was known as 100.3 The Beat). Laiya has served as host on web based video programs along with doing fill-in work in her native Washington, D.C. on 95.5 WPGC.

Pairing two female morning host together in a top radio market may seem unusual however it is not unheard of. K104 Dallas features De De McGuire and Lady Jade, although recently they were joined by DJ/comedian Michael Shawn.

The "PMS" show replaces the syndicated Rickey Smiley Show, which never created the buzz in the Northeast Region city as it has in Southern U.S. markets.

‏@Hot1079Philly

Starting April 1st you will ALL wake up with a touch of P-M-S....Philly's Morning Show hosted by @ShamaraOnline and @laiyasworld 6a-10a

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When Hip Hop Meets Talk Radio

2013-03-06T11:41:00.004-05:00

Radio-Industry Veteran Sean Anthony Becomes the Emerging Voice of Urban Talk Radio

Sean Anthony does not sing or rap (at least not professionally), nor is he a musical artist. However, he has accomplished a great feat in a rare format among hip-hop listeners.

Radio-Industry Veteran, Sean Anthony, and his Flow Of Wisdom Radio Show have transcended the traditionally conservative talk radio audience, to appeal to an overlooked demographic of 18-34 year-old listeners. Sean Anthony reaches this core group due to his ability to combine a trustworthy news source with an entertaining and inspirational delivery.

A study by TALKERS magazine states that, “News/talk radio (including “conservative talk radio”) has a much larger African American listenership than most people think.” Flow of Wisdom Radio has found a way to retain these listeners—and more—through engaging discussions of hidden truths in media and government, in addition to exclusive interviews with prominent figures in the hip-hop industry, such as Nas, David Banner and Professor Griff of the legendary group, Public Enemy.

Flow Of Wisdom Radio began broadcasting in 2009 and was originally picked up by urban radio stations in Richmond, VA and Weldon, NC. Now, its impact will reach far more due to a new agreement with Genesis Communications Network to syndicate the show beginning March 10th.

This is good news for the upcoming waves of talk radio listeners seeking information and answers about today’s society, beyond the current music climate of Rick Ross, Nicki Minaj and Trey Songz.

You can catch Flow Of Wisdom Radio live every Sunday on Genesis Communications Network beginning Sunday March 10, 3-5 PM (EST). Listeners can access the show by visiting the network website: www.gcnlive.com. Podcasts are also available on YouTube and www.flowofwisdom.com.

WNYC’s “On the Media” presents Walt “Clyde” Frazier

2013-03-06T10:52:00.000-05:00

WNYC’s “On the Media” presents Brooke Gladstone in a one-on-one conversation with WALT “CLYDE” FRAZIER

**Live Video Webcast at www.thegreenespace.org**

Walt Frazier’s talents know no bounds. He was a first round draft pick to the New York Knicks in 1967, a seven time NBA All-Star, a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame, and now provides commentary on Knicks games at Madison Square Garden.

He co-owns a NYC restaurant, has written several books, and his flashy sense of style earned him the nickname, “Clyde,” after the infamous Clyde Barrow. The successful entrepreneur and sports legend has managed to maintain an image of himself shaped decades ago, without being trapped by it.

On Friday, March 8 at 7pm, the basketball icon will join WNYC’s On the Media host Brooke Gladstone to discuss the ups and downs of his impressive basketball career, his evolution into a broadcaster, his relationship with the media, fashion, and surprising hobbies like yoga and gardening.

Brooke Gladstone is the Co-Host and Managing Editor of the Peabody Award-winning “On the Media” from WNYC and NPR.

What: Brooke Gladstone in a Conversation with Walt “Clyde” Frazier
Where: The Jerome L. Greene Performance Space (44 Charlton Street between Varick and Sixth Avenue)
When: Friday, March 8, 7pm
Tickets: $20 includes complimentary glass of wine or beer; available at www.thegreenespace.org

WDAS FM Welcomes Frankie Darcell as NEW "Local" Afternoon Host

2013-03-05T13:54:00.000-05:00

PHOTO/ABDUL R. SULAYMAN TRIBUNE CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

Darcell Takes Over for the Departed Michael Baisden, Will Also Hold Down Afternoons in Detroit

FROM THE PHILADELPHIA TRIBUNE- "The Frankie Darcell Show," chosen to replace the 3-7 p.m. drive time slot previously occupied by "The Michael Baisden Show," makes its' debut on Monday, March 4 on 105.3 WDAS-FM radio. Frankie Darcell, a popular air personality who has spent the last 18 years working in Detroit, will be broadcasting live from the WDAS-FM studio on Presidential Boulevard, while also maintaining broadcast ties with Motown.

"She will be heard simultaneously in Philadelphia and Detroit, but it will not be the same show," said Derrick Corbett, director of urban programming, Clear Channel Philadelphia. "She will be live in Philadelphia and she will be voice-tracked to Detroit. She will have a presentation on WDAS which will be live and local every day, and she will also have a presentation on WMXD (Mix 92.3) in Detroit, but they will be different presentations."

Darcell, a sassy and stylish Brooklyn native, recently arrived at Clear Channel Philadelphia headquarters to meet her new broadcast family and capture a little Philly flavor as she began to develop and hone the concept of her new show.

"We're still in the process of working out what that's going to look like, but I'm over 21 and I get an opportunity to be me - what happens in the city, what's happening in the lives of the men and women in the community," said Darcell, a graduate of Morgan State University. "All of us share a lot of the same life experiences, so we're going to do that right on the air. I've been listening to 'DAS forever, quite frankly. Patty (Jackson) and I have known each other a long time. I've had great respect for WDAS, and who would think that I would be here having this conversation today? So in the midst of all the great music, and all the commitments that the station already has to the community, I will be just a huge asset to them. So I'm excited!"

This story continues at the Philadelphia Tribune...

Kelly Mac Exits V103 Chicago

2013-03-04T11:22:00.000-05:00

Surprise Exit Comes Only 3 Months into Chicago tenure

Clear Channel Entertainment and Media in Chicago has released Kelly Mac from her position as midday host on R&B/Classic Soul station V103 (WVAZ). She was also APD for 107.5 WGCI.

Kelly recently transferred to the Windy City from Clear Channel's Philadelphia stations Power 99 (WUSL) and WDAS FM, where she served as assistant program/music director and part time on air host.