Black Radio Stations and the African American Community

Black radio stations have existed with dignity for years.  They provided a much-needed outlet for African American artists and on-air personalities when most in the industry would not.  Over time,  they have become an integral part of the community, with locations throughout the country.

Growing up, I listened to WJIZ-96.3 in Albany,  Georgia,  one of the top radio stations in America. It touted itself as The Georgia Giant and blasted Soul Music across Southwest Georgia,  Northwest Florida, and Southeast Alabama,  with a 100,000-watt signal. Additionally, its disc jockeys,  most of whom didn't have college degrees,  kept the vast audience abreast of the local club scene,  especially on Friday evenings,  through frequent commercials or "spots" while playing the latest hits. WJIZ would also broadcast live from store grand openings, high school and college football games, including the Golden Rams of  Albany State College, and nightclubs, allowing underage listeners to be there in spirit.

WJIZ also introduced Rap Music to a largely rural audience in the early 80s.  I got to hear from Kurtis Blow, Africa Bambaataa, Money Love, D-Nice, Poor Righteous Teachers, and countless others at a time when no one thought the new style of music would continue. It was a breath of fresh air for African American musical talent.

WJIZ-96.3 expanded its format in other significant ways. It played Gospel Music each weekday night at 9:00 p.m. and on Sundays.  After Sunday church service,  it dabbled in oldies with the catchy intro,  "Because you dug it,  here's that golden nugget," in a program dubbed the Mixing Bowl.  But most importantly,  the station aired national and international news at the top of every hour by black journalists!

WJIZ-96.3 in Albany,  Georgia, and similar stations like E-93 on the coast in Savannah,  KISS-104.1 located in the capital city of Atlanta, or WBLS-107.5 based in New York City still exist today after nearly fifty years in business with high ratings and high hopes for the future.