Radio One Detroit: A Beacon of Urban Radio Evolution
As we dive into the expansive world of radio broadcasting in 2025, we reflect on notable milestones in the industry. A significant event that stands out is when Radio One, Inc.’s Detroit market assumed operating responsibility for WGPR FM 107.5, marking a major shift in the urban radio landscape. This transformative move, which took place in the last quarter of 2011, included the relocation of Radio One’s HOT Hip Hop and R&” target=”_blank”>;B station 102.7 to its new home on 107.5. This strategic move opened up avenues for more diverse radio content, with the introduction of a new inspirational station on 102.7. Join us as we take a trip down memory lane and assess the impact of these changes over the past decade.
Radio One Detroit’s initiative began in earnest on Monday, October 24, 2011, at 12:01 , when the HOT Hip Hop and R&;B station made its debut on 107.5.
Programming Changes and New Introductions
The station maintained its popular line-up featuring The Rickey Smiley Morning Show, Paigion in midday, Big Greg in the afternoons, and Shorty da Prince in the evenings. The switch to a full city grade non-directional FM signal boosted HOT 107.5’s reach in the Detroit metropolitan area significantly.
Simultaneously, Radio One introduced a brand new station on 102.7, responding to substantial demand for inspirational music uncovered in recent research. Praise 102.7 made its debut on Monday, October 31, 2011, with inspirational superstar Yolanda Adams hosting the morning drive.
Impact on the Urban Radio Landscape
These changes reinforced Radio One’s position as the dominant urban provider in the marketplace, according to Vice President and General Manager Kathy Stinehour. James Dogan, the President and General Manager of WGPR, echoed this sentiment, citing the decision as beneficial for urban radio in the city.
Forward-Looking Statements
Please note that this blog contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. These statements represent management’s expectations based on information at the time of this press release. They involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results to differ from those implied. For more detailed information, refer to the Company’s reports on Forms 10-K, 10-Q/A, and 10-Q and other filings with the SEC.
#MusicIndustryEvolution #UrbanRadio #RadioOneDetroit #InspirationalMusic #RadioBroadcasting
