PAVING THE WAY....DJ & BLACK RADIO HISTORY PT9

The Golden Age & Civil Rights (1960s-1980s) 

During this era, DJs became powerful voices for the Civil Rights Movement and architects of new musical formats. 

• Frankie Crocker: Known as "Chief Rocker," he transformed New York's WBLS into a global powerhouse and pioneered the "Urban Contemporary" format.
• Melvin Lindsay: Credited with creating the "Quiet Storm" format at WHUR-FM in DC, characterized by smooth R&B and intimate delivery.
• Jack "The Rapper" Gibson: A key figure who founded the first Black-owned radio station (WERD in Atlanta) and later established the influential "Jack the Rapper" convention.

    •    •    Donnie Simpson: A legendary voice in D.C. radio and long-time host of Video Soul, he became one of the most recognizable faces in Black media.