“Nothing can replace the role black radio plays in empowering, informing and entertaining black people.” Tom Joyner said that this spring. It will be interesting to hear what Joyner, perhaps the most recognizable face in U.S. black radio, might add about trends in that sector when he keynotes the Radio Show Luncheon on Sept. 21.
The African-American-oriented radio business has been troubled by some notable format moves. These generally are believed to be driven by data from the Arbitron Portable People Meter electronic audience measurement system, results that cause minority-oriented stations to post lower ratings than before.
Earlier this year, reacting to format changes in New York, Joyner stated, “I understand the economic difficulties of operating multiple urban radio stations in the PPM audience measurement world.” But he expressed sadness then that “an important black voice is going silent in New York City, especially during this important election year.”
Like Glenn Beck and other multimedia success stories, Joyner has created a multiplatform empire around his show as he has pushed into TV, the Internet, books, charities, social commentary, community interaction, events, etc. He is a member of the NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame.
Joyner’s show reaches an estimated 8 million listeners in 105 markets, according to an NAB release making the announcement.
NAB Executive Vice President, Radio, John David called Joyner “a driving force in radio. He continues to have a profound impact on his listeners and on the important causes he champions.”
The Radio Show is Sept. 19–21, in Dallas.
Related:
A Radio Merger in New York Reflects a Changing Industry (New York Times)
