The National Black Radio Hall of Fame recently honored four influential figures in the radio industry: Elroy Smith, JoJo O’Neal, Lorenzo “Iced Tea” Thomas, and Marc Young. This prestigious induction acknowledges their decades of dedication to broadcasting, community impact, and the culture of Black radio.
Elroy Smith, a key figure in radio programming, was inducted in the “Talented Brothers of Radio” category. Known for helping launch major artists like New Edition, Vanilla Ice, Alicia Keys, and Kirk Franklin, Smith has also mentored industry icons such as Steve Harvey, Tom Joyner, and Charlamagne. His accolades include Billboard’s R&B/Hip-Hop Program Director of the Year, the U.S. Congress State of the District Media Award, and the 2023 Onyx Magazine “Men of Honor” award.
JoJo O’Neal, who was inducted in the “Talented Sisters of Radio” category, has made an indelible mark on the radio industry with over 41 years of service. After being diagnosed with asthma in 2004, she founded the Let’s Kick Asthma Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to educating and inspiring those living with the disease. Her advocacy continues to resonate with her community.
Lorenzo “Iced Tea” Thomas was recognized under the “Talented Brothers of Radio” category for his over 30 years in broadcasting. Thomas has received multiple honors, including Air Personality of the Year twice and Jock of the Millennium. His broadcasting journey also includes leadership roles as Program Director and serving as the final voice of BET’s Video Vibrations. He was also recently honored by Onyx Magazine at their “Men of Honor” awards.
Marc Young, who was inducted in the “Production & Imaging” category, has spent 35 years producing award-winning shows in major markets. After beginning his career at WGCI-Chicago, Young found his true passion in production. He is now the production director at HOT 105 in Miami and also works as an on-air personality across several stations, including STAR 94.5 in Orlando and 101-5 The VIBE in Tampa.
JC Campese, CMG Orlando Radio Vice President, expressed his pride in the honorees: “I’m so happy that Elroy, JoJo, Lorenzo, and Marc have received the recognition they so well deserve!”
The induction ceremony took place at the National Black Radio Hall of Fame Museum at Harris-Stowe State University in St. Louis, where these four radio legends now stand among other pioneers who shaped the landscape of Black radio.
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