Michael Baisden
Michael Baisden / Most Shares / mostread2019 / Radio and Music Industry News / Radio DJ / Updated posts / Urban Radio
Why Michael Baisden’s Return is Good For Today’s Urban Radio
By now, you have heard about Michael Michael Baisden coming back to Radio. It has been all over Radio Facts and in the conversations of those of us who are Radio Heads.
Professionally and personally I think it is the best thing to happen to Urban Radio to have him back on the scene!!
When Michael Baisden was initially on the air with the ABC Network, CUMULUS MEDIA, a lot of us in the industry was hating because he had a radio show and he was NOT a “Radio DJ” per those of US who have dedicated our lives to this industry. He was brash and bold on the air; maybe even a bit arrogant from our perspective. But you know when Cassius Clay, aka Muhammed Ali, hit the boxing world they called him arrogant as well!!
Michael Baisden WAS disruptive to our safe world of Radio Announcers. The reason we were upset is because it was a syndicated show and for every station that he picked up it meant that somebody in a PM drive, lost a job. He dared to push the limits of radio as we knew them then; even to the dismay of his employers!!! But as he stayed on the air, a lot of us “radio heads” begin to admire his ‘radio swag’ and we quietly would think, ‘Damn, if I could do what he does on the radio I could blow up too!!.’
What we know for sure is how format radio works and we tend to stay within the limits of the tried and true ways of broadcasting. But when Michael Baisden hit the scene, he did not see the LINE in the sand of Urban Radio. He did not recognize any of the so-called rules of Radio basics that were drilled into our heads; things like when to talk, do not talk over the vocals, do not talk too much, play the hits cause you can’t break songs/artist on a (4) hour show, do not put too many callers on the air, watch sensitive subject matters, and be careful how you approach National controversy, and the list goes on!! If you have ever spent (15) minutes or more on air in the urban format, you can think of other self-inflicted rules that we have made for ourselves along the way.
Once Michael Baisden’ s show caught fire with the listeners, then we could really see the difference and that changed our thoughts in our head to ‘“If I could have the freedom he has I could blow up too’!!! (Ever said that to yourselff?)
Michael Baisden did many things while he was on the air but the most memorable for me was the call to action around the Jena Six case involving charges against six black students in Jena, Louisiana back around 2006. I was so motivated by all the conversation started by Michael Baisden on the radio that once he did the call to action about going down to Jena, I decided to go. I called him one day when he was on the air talking about it and told him I was motivated to be there and he said, “ Man get your crew can come on down!”
Of course, I did not have a “crew” but then I thought, Yes, I do!! I am a Biker (Motorcyclist), so I shared the idea with the local bikers. They had heard Michael Baisden talk about it as well so the brothers and sisters here said “Hell Yeah let’s go down there and represent for those young black brothers with Michael Baisden and nem!” (‘Nem’ , of course, meaning the rest of the country who was planning to go). After getting my crew together, I called Michael Baisden back and told him I was coming to Jena with Bikers from the ATL and we would be rolling about 115 deep.
He said, “Hold on man, I got a break coming up”, then I heard him on the phone say “I am talking to Mitch Faulkner in the ATL and he and a crew of Bikers are going to meet us in Jena,” then he said, “Mitch you there?”, and from there I was on the air live. Well, to shorten this story we rode out deep and when we arrived we began to see other motorcycle groups and clubs there. Bikers in the thousands were there. I spoke with one brother out of New Orleans that was rolling about 100 Deep and I asked him, “Why did you guys come down?” and his reply me to was, “I was listening to Michael Baisden and I heard some guy out of Atlanta talking about riding down to Jena”. He was the President of his Louisiana-based Club and he said he made it a mandatory ride, because he could not allow other Bikers from out of the State of Louisiana come without them being there!
The catalyst for the whole thing was the Michael Michael Baisden show!! Michael Baisden played a huge role in getting President Obama in office and the list goes on with the things he was able to bring to Urban Radio. Only Michael Baisden and the power of Urban Radio stations around the country could pull that off!!
The real deal is this, those of us in radio do not like syndication because it makes us lose jobs and it cheapens the rate that we can get for the jobs we do have. We will ‘hate’ in a public sentence, but in private we say to ourselves ‘I WISH I COULD BE SYNDICATED!!’ Well, news flash, syndication is here to stay, and it will be much sweeter with Michael Baisden coming back to syndicated radio.
WHY YOU ASK?????? … because if he comes back with more of the same content as before, it will strengthen Urban Radio locally!
… because if he gets on a station in your market and start to gain numbers it will force (you) as a Radio DJ or PD to be more informative in your programming to compete!
I am so glad he is coming back and ANYBODY WHO OWNS OR PROGRAMS A STATION need to be in line to pick him up ASAP so you will not have to compete with him!! Listen, many disruptive things have come along in my lifetime like cell phones, text messages, cable TV, online banking, the Internet,. It has ALL made the world a better place. I imagine when the cell phone technology started I am sure the Bell company was like ‘yeah right, who needs to have a phone with them all day every day?’ NOW LOOK WHO IS PLAYING BIG IN the Mobile Phone Industry.
Michael Baisden will single handily change our industry for the better… in my Bernie Mack voice, “He aint scared of You M*&^$$ F%^$!! “
Can you imagine what Michael would have done on the Ferguson murder and the whole Black Lives Matter efforts??!! Oh, it is going to be on!!
There is a lot going on in our URBAN society, and radio is just not delivering the goods. It is funny how we can work for a Company owned by folk that don’t look like us and they allow us to play trash music to our youth but they will NOT let you stop the music to talk about the ills of our Communities/Society and the controversy with Law enforcement and our rights or feelings!!! How many 12-24 stations do you know of, that STOPPED the mindless music to give voice to the Black Lives Matter issues or the police shootings etc. YEAH, I hear your answers but you cannot comment out loud cause your Owners/GM’s will bounce you out on the street!!
And when your so called (Urban) Station get pushed by Michael Baisden’s numbers maybe your Boss will cut you lose to show your ‘True Broadcast Stripes’ to Entertain, Inform, Educate, or push you out for the lack of testosterone, because Michael Baisden has the Big Ones the size of basketballs when it comes to Radio.
Bravo to Michael Baisden Media Group in collaboration with American Urban Radio Network, Perry Broadcasting and others to distribute the show nationally. Superadio has made the announcement here in Radio Facts and E-blast and I think this is the best thing to date happening in Urban radio.
Our Urban Radio community has stooped to new lows in programming, trying to out play the next music station with more music! Is that what we need is more music …when folk can find THEIR MUSIC on hundreds of other sources now?. A lot of markets audience share is shrinking because we play the same few songs over and over.
What I mean by shrinking I mean IS if you are in a market like Atlanta where V-103 has been the dominant Urban for years (Reggie Rouse PD) and it still is, but check this, V-103 used to be number (1) in Double digits, now they are number (1) with single digits. The entire urban audience is defecting from radio period!! Why??… Because we cannot hold them (the listener) with just Music and a few dollars in a cash contest during the book (lol)!!
Because our rule book says PLAY the HITS, which means it is already burned out by the time we play it. We DO NOT GIVE OUR LISTENERS the chance to discover NEW music on our stations. Remember when we used to turn on the radio to see what new music was out? What a novel idea for radio … to BREAK RECORDS/ARTISTS)!! Yeah, you might be the first to play it on your station but believe me, the audience has heard it before you on YouTube, Pandora etc. This is why Michael Baisden’s return to radio can help the industry!
If more stations bring content other than another music sweeps it makes it hard for other mediums to compete with us. YOU CANNOT GET CONTENT and personality for the inner offerings or a great Playlist on Spotify etc.
The kind of Radio that Michael Baisden will bring will move the needle in the entire industry if he gets enough bold stations to carry the show and then if we take heed and bring more compelling content to compete with him it all changes the game for the greater good of the Listeners, Advertisers and broadcasters alike.
We NEED this breath of fresh air. I just hope someone can bring some sense to our 12-24 and 18-36 stations because all of this (mindless) inarticulate BS Hip Hop Music is going into our Young Minds and quite frankly making them stupid! I could give a list, but I have a 17-Year-old Niece living with me and she is hearing Lil Yachty on the (radio) of all places talking about ‘1 Night’! Really? that is what the audience is demanding? Ok I get that, but hey Crackheads demand Crack but you cannot get it at the drug store, Right?
So, I think Michael Baisden will help us raise the bar. And if you, your Station Owner, or PD gets hit by Michael Baisden, maybe they will follow because the audience will demand more content from your station thus giving YOU the chance to improve your game and use your earned stripes.
Mitch Faulkner Founder
Mitch Faulkner Group Inc.
Atlanta GA.
Mitch Faulker’s opinion may or may not reflect those of the owners, writers and contributers to Radio Facts (radiofacts.com)
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Former Hot 105 Drive Host Rick Party Talks to RF Focus about Future Plans
Rick Party is the quintessential industry hustler. One of, if not THE, best I’ve ever known. He wears many hats, Radio DJ, voice talent with his own network site Voiceover Universe, certified exercise trainer, husband, father, grandfather and more. At one time, he even co-owned an industry conference. How in the hell does he do it? He’s smart that’s how. Party, who just turned 50, learned a long time ago not to wait on opportunities but to use your power and LEVERAGE to create them. Several people have been asking what his next move is since announcing that he was leaving Hot 105 in Miami last week. At press time we have not gotten a response from the station’s’ PD Phil Michaels-Trueba on Rick’s departure. But we did get a chance to catch up with Rick.
RF Focus: What happened with Hot?
Rick Party: Hot 105 offered me a multi-year deal with conditions that I simply could not accept, so for my self-respect and peace of mind, I decided to reject the offer and walk out on faith.
Do you plan to do radio again?
Definitely! As a matter of fact, I am currently entertaining a nationally syndicated radio show with some star players on my team.
How important is it for black talent to create additional opportunities?
It is extremely important. In this line of business, you basically have to be multi-talented. You may find yourself wearing different hats without notice, such as producer, production director, program director, and music director. I have been blessed with a very productive voiceover career, which in itself, has created many lucrative deals on a regular basis.
What was it like to replace Michael Baisden
I am accustomed to the constant changes that occur often enough in the Radio industry. Thus, I did not look at it as replacing Michael Baisden, for me, it was more like returning to my original time slot to do radio the way it’s supposed to be done and giving it my best each & every time.
How does it feel to be in control of your destiny? That’s an experience most Radio DJs never have?
Indeed, you are absolutely right. I turned down a 3-year deal that most Radio DJs would have quickly accepted. To me, that is power. Some people may even call that a crazy move, but, that is only because they don’t see the big picture. As I see it, my future is bright, beautiful, and so damn exciting.
Tell us about your ESPN and Disney Gig.
In December, I auditioned for ESPN’s Sportscaster and a few months later, they chose me and offered me the position as a salaried employee. Every time I hear my voice on the airwaves, I say to my wife, “that kid from around the way from Chicago’s South Side is now heard around the world.
What are you going to do over the next couple of months?
Voiceover is full-time work. It was never a side hustle. It is very lucrative and very interesting. So, I will continue to do that while my team and I explore syndication opportunities that we have been presented with. More importantly, I am going to catch up on some me time.
RICK PARTY EXITS HOT 105 MIAMI
Anything else?
I’m all about mentoring and helping others, so I will be teaching voiceover as many have asked over the years. I am also going to produce my wife’s family law and life coach digital platform. I will also continue to do everything that I can to earn my rightful place in radio broadcast history. Honestly, I could not have done any of this without the support of my loving wife and family.
What’s your favorite most relevant industry trade site? (lol)
Not to sound biased, but Radio Facts (RF Focus) is the only digital magazine that I’ve truly followed since the R&R newspaper.
Sounds great to me to be aligned with one of the few industry legends. Thanks, Rick
Thanks Kevin
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Rick Party Exits Hot 105 in Miami
I have the greatest respect for Rick Party because he learned a long time ago about the importance of not just being a broadcaster but also an entrepreneur. He has exited Hot 105 today after just being reinstated to afternoon drive with Benji Brown to take over after the Michael Baisden show was canceled at the station. Party states he could not come to a contractual agreement with the station. Party states:
“Turning to the next chapter of my life… Miami/Ft. Lauderdale and the Palm Beaches, Thank you for allowing me to grace the airwaves of South Florida’s HOT 105. Today is bittersweet for me as I announce my departure from this amazing institution. Unfortunately, Hot 105 and I could not reach an agreement when it came time to renew my contract with them. They offered me a 3-year deal with terms that I simply could not accept. So, I had to push away from the table and walk on faith.
RICK PARTY TALKS TO RFFOCUS ABOUT LIFE AFTER HOT 105
I’m looking forward to this next chapter in my life, which includes among others, a National Radio Syndication opportunity that awaits me. In the meantime, I’ll continue to entertain, enlighten, and inform you via my social media pages. On a lighter note, ESPN / Disney has made me an employee and I can be heard weekdays as the voice of SportsCenter on the television network by over 200 Million people in over 60 countries. Thank you all for your continued support.” Rick Pаrty
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Rick Party and Benji Brown back 2 to 7, Hot 105 in Miami
What Happened to Michael Baisden?
Rick Party and Benji Brown are back on in the afternoon 2 to 7 at Hot 105 Miami, they were moved to the 10 to 3 shift a year ago when Michael Baisden came to the station. They are replacing the Michael Baisden show.
The New lineup:
6-9am – TJMS
9a – 2pm James T
2 – 7p – Rick Party in the afternoon w/Benji Brown
7p – 12mid – Quiet Storm w/Freddie Cruz
Dominique DiPrima Joins the Michael Baisden Show
The Michael Baisden Show Adds Award-Winning Broadcast Journalist Dominique DiPrima As Co-Host
Heard in over 50 markets, show also announces return to Atlanta and Las Vegas
LOS ANGELES, CA, January 9, 2018 – After an extensive search for a co-host for The Michael Baisden Show, the search concluded with award-winning broadcast journalist and radio personality Dominique DiPrima being tapped for the position. The Emmy-winning DiPrima is best known as the host of the popular daily news and public affairs show “Front Page” on KJLH-FM in Los Angeles. In addition to being a co-host she will also take on the role of senior producer.
“Dominique is an amazing talent,” shared host Michael Baisden. “I’ve known her for more than 20 years and I knew one day we’d be in the studio starting trouble together!”
“2018 is going to be a great year in radio,” added DiPrima. “Michael is a radio icon, an innovator and a true mover and shaker. I’m thrilled to be a part of his team!”
Heard nationwide in over 50 media markets including WHUR 96.3 FM in Washington D.C., HOT 105 WHQT in Miami and recently announced Atlanta’s WTBS-FM Mix 87.7 and beginning in February KCEP Power 88 FM in Las Vegas, The Michael Baisden Show is syndicated through Baisden Media Group in partnership with SupeRadio and AURN (American Urban Radio Networks).
An obvious choice for Baisden, DiPrima was news anchor of choice for living legend Stevie Wonder when he hosted his “Stevie Wonder Morning Thunder Thousand Dollar Thursdays” on KJLH-FM’s morning drive. Previously, Ms. DiPrima spent three years as a co-host and news director/anchor of “The Steve Harvey Morning Show” on KKBT-FM (The Beat) in Los Angeles and in limited syndication.
A talk radio veteran, with a stint as host and producer of her own talk show “Street Science with Dominique DiPrima” for almost nine years on 100.3 FM The Beat, she also served as the station’s Community Action Director, building the department into an unprecedented, large arm of the radio station while working closely with grassroots community organizations. During her time at The Beat, she earned the station a NAB Crystal Award. “Street Science with Dominique DiPrima” garnered her a L.A. Weekly “Best of L.A.” award and a Gracie Award from the American Women in Radio and Television.
The Michael Baisden Show can be heard weekdays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. EST in over 50 media markets as well as online. For more information including station listings, please visit michaelbaisden.com.
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Industry Profiles / Michael Baisden / Most Shares / Radio and Music Industry News / Uncategorized / Updated posts
Radio Facts Talks to Michael Baisden on his "Best Return of the Year" win
Michael Baisden “Best Return of the Year”
“ I produced my social media page in the same way I did the radio show, and the audience responded.”
Michael Baisden is one of the most compelling, dedicated, and entertaining people on the air. He took a break from radio for four years. I have seen many people sit back and wait for another opportunity, but I was extremely impressed with how Michael grabbed the bull by the horns and kept his social media accounts entertaining and active. I followed him and was in awe at how he continued to build his brand and fan base while he wasn’t even on the air. When the category for “Return of the Year” came up, everyone agreed he was at the top of the list. We got a chance to talk to Baisden about his return.
Congratulations on your successful return to the airwaves. You sound amazing. How does it feel?
It feels great! I’ve been waiting to get back on the mic for almost 4 years now, and my passion for radio is greater than ever! It should be obvious to anyone listening to the show that I’m excited and ready to go for another 5 to 10 years.
During your break, you were constantly on social media and making appearances. Your determination to keep in touch with your fanbase was unparalleled. What made you decide to do this?
During my 10 years producing my show, I was accustomed to producing music, features, and topics daily, and I enjoyed that aspect of the show, so I figured, why stop? So, I produced my social media page in the same way I did the radio show, and the audience responded. I went from 200,000 fans in 2013 to over 4 million by the time I returned to radio in January 2017.
Can we expect more branding from you, like more books, movies etc.?
Yes, there will definitely be more books. I’m currently working on a book about pursuing success and a children’s book about fatherless children. And of course, relaunching my TV Show, Baisden After Dark, and other film projects are on my things-to-do list for 2018.
Where would you like to see yourself in the next couple of years?
I want to have the number one afternoon show in the country, syndicated in over 100 cities, as well as the number one social media content company. I am currently working on the re-launch of my digital platform, Video Pitch. I’m determined to change the game in the radio industry when it comes to audio and video content.
What advice would you give a younger Michael Baisden today?
Stay true to your brand and don’t allow others to convince you to perform on-air in a way that doesn’t reflect who you truly are. Also, understand that in order to have a great radio show that will stand the test of time, you must have great producers and an ideology of inclusiveness. I never liked the term Urban Radio or Black Radio. That may be advantageous for sales, but it limits the opportunities and reach of the talent.
Tell us about your team.
Well, of course, I have to start with comedian George Willborn, who’s been with me since 2007. It’s great to have his energy and perspective back on the show. Our chemistry is second to none. Then there’s Tamara G, the lady of the show, who I’ve known for many years from her work on Jacksonville and WEDR and Hot 105 in Miami. I also brought on Doug Davis, who was working as a PD in Savannah when I met him. He’s been doing a great job of holding down the production and editing duties. Of course, we needed some young blood on the team, so I hired a talented young man from New York—we call him Juan Carlos Urena-Acosta, We call him Juan C, who’s responsible for editing and managing the production of the show to the satellite company. My daughter, Michae’ Baisden, is my intern show producer and is doing an excellent job of scheduling guests and producing show topics. And finally, the two newest members of the team are Tanisha Carmichael and Miles Low, both of whom are working out great as producers.
Anything else?
I’m happy that my comeback has been so well received. I think it’s important that radio programs have substantive content that people will talk about long after the show is over. For too long, Black Radio has relied on news and humor, instead of opening up the phone lines and talking directly to the people. When you have compelling content and add in the perspective of the on-air personality, it’s an experience that’s exclusive to that host and station. That’s how we win long-term in radio, by engaging the audience every hour instead of having personalities operate in a bubble. And no one engages the audience more often and better than The Michael Baisden Show!
Industry Profiles / Michael Baisden / Most Shares / Radio and Music Industry News / Uncategorized / Updated posts
Radio Facts Talks to Michael Baisden on his “Best Return of the Year” win
Michael Baisden “Best Return of the Year”
“ I produced my social media page in the same way I did the radio show, and the audience responded.”
Michael Baisden is one of the most compelling, dedicated, and entertaining people on the air. He took a break from radio for four years. I have seen many people sit back and wait for another opportunity, but I was extremely impressed with how Michael grabbed the bull by the horns and kept his social media accounts entertaining and active. I followed him and was in awe at how he continued to build his brand and fan base while he wasn’t even on the air. When the category for “Return of the Year” came up, everyone agreed he was at the top of the list. We got a chance to talk to Baisden about his return.Congratulations on your successful return to the airwaves. You sound amazing. How does it feel?It feels great! I’ve been waiting to get back on the mic for almost 4 years now, and my passion for radio is greater than ever! It should be obvious to anyone listening to the show that I’m excited and ready to go for another 5 to 10 years. During your break, you were constantly on social media and making appearances. Your determination to keep in touch with your fanbase was unparalleled. What made you decide to do this?During my 10 years producing my show, I was accustomed to producing music, features, and topics daily, and I enjoyed that aspect of the show, so I figured, why stop? So, I produced my social media page in the same way I did the radio show, and the audience responded. I went from 200,000 fans in 2013 to over 4 million by the time I returned to radio in January 2017.Can we expect more branding from you, like more books, movies etc.?Yes, there will definitely be more books. I’m currently working on a book about pursuing success and a children’s book about fatherless children. And of course, relaunching my TV Show, Baisden After Dark, and other film projects are on my things-to-do list for 2018.Where would you like to see yourself in the next couple of years?I want to have the number one afternoon show in the country, syndicated in over 100 cities, as well as the number one social media content company. I am currently working on the re-launch of my digital platform, Video Pitch. I’m determined to change the game in the radio industry when it comes to audio and video content.What advice would you give a younger Michael Baisden today?Stay true to your brand and don’t allow others to convince you to perform on-air in a way that doesn’t reflect who you truly are. Also, understand that in order to have a great radio show that will stand the test of time, you must have great producers and an ideology of inclusiveness. I never liked the term Urban Radio or Black Radio. That may be advantageous for sales, but it limits the opportunities and reach of the talent.Tell us about your team. Well, of course, I have to start with comedian George Willborn, who’s been with me since 2007. It’s great to have his energy and perspective back on the show. Our chemistry is second to none. Then there’s Tamara G, the lady of the show, who I’ve known for many years from her work on Jacksonville and WEDR and Hot 105 in Miami. I also brought on Doug Davis, who was working as a PD in Savannah when I met him. He’s been doing a great job of holding down the production and editing duties. Of course, we needed some young blood on the team, so I hired a talented young man from New York—we call him Juan Carlos Urena-Acosta, We call him Juan C, who’s responsible for editing and managing the production of the show to the satellite company. My daughter, Michae’ Baisden, is my intern show producer and is doing an excellent job of scheduling guests and producing show topics. And finally, the two newest members of the team are Tanisha Carmichael and Miles Low, both of whom are working out great as producers. Anything else?I’m happy that my comeback has been so well received. I think it’s important that radio programs have substantive content that people will talk about long after the show is over. For too long, Black Radio has relied on news and humor, instead of opening up the phone lines and talking directly to the people. When you have compelling content and add in the perspective of the on-air personality, it’s an experience that’s exclusive to that host and station. That’s how we win long-term in radio, by engaging the audience every hour instead of having personalities operate in a bubble. And no one engages the audience more often and better than The Michael Baisden Show!
Michael Baisden / Radio and Music Industry News / Radio DJ / Rickey Smiley Morning Show / Tom Joyner / Urban Radio
ATLANTA: The Nation’s Urban Radio Capital
By LaMonte Hayes and Kevin RossEveryone knows that Atlanta has been making great strides over the last few decades as the black music mecca. It’s not surprising that TV and film production followed. Now the city reigns among broadcast markets with the most Black radio stations in the nation.
To say the market is interesting is an understatement. There is a total of eleven stations that are either Black or leaning Black now competing for the greatest piece of the listenership pie. While local listeners must be thrilled with their options, this is an incredible challenge for the corporations, programmers, DJs and particularly account executives in the market. Competition is particularly fierce when concerts by top Black artists come to town.
How can eleven stations avoid clashing when it comes to requesting artists for shows and appearances? It’s not possible. “Having this many stations in the market certainly keeps you on your toes. I actually like the challenge,” one radio programmer told us. But other programmers that we’ve talked to around the country state the opposite; they see this many stations as causing way too much stress and non-stop work. But as many of us in the radio realm know, there are many people who are addicted to the radio industry, who live and breathe it, and enjoy the competition. The programmers in the market have to be some of the best in order to survive.
Atlanta is also the leader in broadcasting the most nationally syndicated Black radio shows, including those hosted by Tom Joyner , Rickey Smiley, Michael Baisden, Ed Lover, Willie Moore Jr., and others.
Yes, some of the best Black radio is in Atlanta. The reasons for it come directly from the competition. As program director, Reggie Rouse of V103 (WVEE) tells Radio Facts: “The Atlanta market is extremely competitive. To stay ahead of the pack, we invest in our air talent. We believe in personality radio, being in the community, and focusing on what happens here in A.T.L..”
Rouse’s approach has proven effective. V103 has held the top spot in the market for many years, even beating out non-Black stations; but looking at its PPM (Nielsen’s Personal People Meter) ratings, the station is definitely being challenged by the ten other Black, or “Black leaning,” stations in the market. In this context, “Black-leaning” means a pop or rhythmic station that plays a large proportion of Black music but has broader target audience in addition to African Americans.
“When something does happen in Atlanta, listeners come to V103 first,” Rouse continues. “We are the Internet for the African American community … music, entertainment, news, sports and even inspiration. We have an emotional connection with our audience. And that’s what makes V103 unique. That’s why we are the People’s Station.”
The current plethora of Black broadcast signals in the Atlanta metropolitan area services an exploding population of 5.7 million people, per 2016 census estimates. This top ten radio market ranked the ninth largest in the country, plays host to the following:
- Two classic hip-hop stations, WUMJ and WWWQ
- Two Black adult stations, WALR and WAMJ, which simulcasts on another signal
- Four Black stations, WSTR, WHTA, WVEE and WRDG, which simulcasts on another signal
- Urban oldies Old School 87.7
- One gospel outlet, My Praise 102.5
- One Black AM talk station WAOK
In addition, an independent low-power FM, W233BF-FM (Streetz 94.5), is making a name for itself by going against the usual research grain and playing unknown artists to a limited but crucial part of Atlanta, something that the other stations with their comparatively herculean signals are unable to do. Streetz rounds out the 360 degrees of Black radio programming in a market that manages to cater to everyone’s musical appetite. Not even New York City can boast that type of Black radio presence.
“Streetz 94-5 debuted in June of 2012 to fill a void. It’s best known for playing the street/ club/ party music first before any other Atlanta radio station,” explains Steve Hegwood, PD of Streetz 94.5. “For many years Atlanta has and continues to dominate the hip-hop world. Streetz 94-5 is in the forefront of that movement by supporting many of our Atlanta artists as they blow up and take over the radio coast to coast.”
Hegwood is an industry entrepreneur who owns two stations in Atlanta. The low-power FMs basically cover a relatively small area of the city, but Hegwood constantly comes up with brilliant concepts to capitalize on their reach, like using a TV station’s signal to transmit audio. Further, Hegwood has been able to nab local advertisers that may not be able to afford time on the bigger corporate stations or on stations trying to reach hardcore hip-hop fans, or both, putting his station in a great position to compete. His stations are so well programmed and uniquely positioned that, like David versus Goliath, they have become strong competitors among Atlanta’s radio giants. Hegwood told Radio Facts, “Atlanta is extremely competitive with at least eleven stations targeting the Black audience, fighting for audience share and advertising dollars. Every day is a new experience. Through the grace of God, we continue to succeed.”
Streetz plays local music first, giving homegrown musicians (mostly hip-hop artists) a major advantage because the market is a well-known launching pad for Black music. That doesn’t mean the artists automatically get played on all the radio stations. However, Hegwood — one of the most respected programmers in the industry for his creative hustle as an entrepreneur— can take a lot more chances than the corporate stations. He is well connected with the artists, both local and national, and in the best position to fast-track local artists to national fame. Streetz is credited with creating several hip-hop giants. “We are extremely proud of the success of Future, 2 Chainz, Gucci Mane, Rich Homie Quan, YFN Lucci, Dae Dae, The Migos and many others coming soon.”
Of course, in order to remain competitive in the radio game stations have to play by a set of rules. But Hegwood is “The Little Engine That Could” among Atlanta’s profusion of Black stations because he uses his leverage as a small station to reach a specific target: hardcore hip-hop fans within a small but valuable radius in the city. In addition, Hegwood’s radio career includes positions with some of the same corporations he is competing against, enabling him to create a sound that’s just as big as that of the behemoths.
On the other end of the musical spectrum, Hegwood also has a great-sounding adult station in Old School 87-7, which plays classic R&B from the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s with only the best hip-hop titles. Old School 87-7 has only been on the air for just over a year and is experiencing incredible success. The station features market veteran Porshe Foxx.
Radio Advertising Challenges
Radio sales executives in Atlanta have long said the market is experiencing a declining ad revenue base, given the number of stations. One account executive said, “There is only so much radio advertising in the market for these targeted demographics and the climate is really tough for us with all the competition.” Meanwhile, advertisers are enjoying a bonanza as they have many choices for its targeted demographic. It’s currently anyone’s guess as to who will win the ad-sales war in the Black radio marketplace.
Another issue with the current avalanche of Black radio signals in the market is that two stations have air personalities who are homegrown Atlantans, seasoned broadcasters who hold down the fort and are staples in the community representing competition at its best, as real radio is live and local. Both Greg Street and DJ Nabs are long-time on-air staples with rich histories in the market.
In today’s broadcast climate of national programmers, consultants, and national radio playlists composed by large radio conglomerates, Atlanta is still one of the few radio markets left that dances to the beat of its own drum.Atlanta’s Black radio is famous for giving real radio exposure to local independent artists with a buzz. Other markets’ local artists are often pigeonholed into a mix show only on weekends or late nights — pacifying everyone without truly giving the music a fighting chance. In Atlanta, this scenario is the opposite. Several artists can flourish and grow on a national platform, due to the support of the expansive programming approach in the new Black mecca.
There is no doubt that Atlanta, now a well-rounded entertainment market, will continue to dominate Black entertainment culture.
CMG Miami Radio Names Michael Baisden New Afternoon Drive Host for Hot 105
MIAMI – Feb. 13, 2017 – Cox Media Group (CMG) Miami Radio has announced Michael Baisden as its new afternoon drive host on Hot 105, effective February 20th, 2017. The Michael Baisden show is syndicated with our sister station WALR KISS 104 as the flagship station.
Nobody is leaving which is usually the trend when syndication comes on. We value our people and our future. We’re splitting shifts to accommodate Michael.New lineup:
- 6am – 9am – The New Tom Joyner Morning Show (TJMS)
- 9am – 12n – James T
- 12n – 3pm – Rick Party in the afternoon with Benji Brown
- 3pm – 7pm – The Michael Baisden Show
- 7pm – 12mid – The Quiet Storm with Freddie Cruz (32 years strong)
“Michael was a part of the Hot 105 Super brand from 2007 to 2013 with a proven track record of success.” said WHQT Director of Branding and Programming Phil Michaels-Trueba. “I am happy to welcome Michael, George Willborn, and Tamara G back home to our already stellar lineup of icons, legends, and superstars on the Hot 105 Super brand that super serve our community!”
Baisden is undeniably one of the most influential and engaging personalities in radio history. His meteoric rise to No. 1 redefined radio with the numbers to back it up. The show was heard in over 100 cities nationwide with over 7 million loyal listeners daily.
“There’s no place like home,” said Baisden. “It feels great to be back on the air on Hot 105 in Miami, the city that I’ve called home for the past 15 years! My radio family in the Miami/Ft. Lauderdale area have always been among the most loyal and active in the country. I’ll never forget the election night party where thousands showed up to celebrate President Obama’s first victory and the incredible turnout in Miramar for the One Million Mentors Tour to save our children. Now the show is back and hotter than ever! Along with myself and comedian George Willborn, we’ve added a lady to the team who is no stranger to the Miami area, Tamara G! Now the energy in the studio is on another level! So get ready Miami! The baddest show on radio is back with great music, social activism, and engaging topics. Grown Folks Radio has returned to the best adult station in Miami, Hot 105. It’s Time To Shut The City Down!”
“It’s so great to have The Michael Baisden Show return to Hot 105,” said CMG Miami VP and General Manager Rob Babin. “Adding Michael Baisden to our current superstar line-up ensures Hot 105 continues to deliver the best entertainment, community focused R&B and Old School. Welcome home Michael!”
Baisden’s career began when he took a leap of faith to leave his job driving trains in Chicago to self-publish his book and began touring the country selling books out of the trunk of his car. The New York Times best-selling author and relationship expert hosted two nationally syndicated TV talk shows: a daytime called “Talk or Walk”, and a late night talk show titled “Baisden After Dark.”
Baisden has carved a unique niche as a speaker, radio personality, philanthropist and social activist. He was honored by BBBS with the Michael Baisden Inspiration Award, which is given to people who are dedicating themselves to actively recruiting mentors. Baisden also founded the Michael Baisden Foundation focusing on education, literacy and mentoring.
Read MoreList of Stations Playing the Michael Baisden Show
Here is a list of current stations playing the Michael Baisden show. We will keep you posted as more stations are added. 
- ATLANTA, GA WALR
- WASHINGTON, DC WHUR
- TAMPA, FL WTMP
- OKLAHOMA CITY, OK KRMP
- MEMPHIS, TN WLRM
- MOBILE-PENSACOLA, FL WRNE
- TULSA, OK KGTO
- FLINT, MI WOWE
- SAVANNAH, GA WLVH
- GREENVILLE-NEW BERN, NC WRHD
- AUGUSTA-AIKEN, GA WAKB
- COLUMBUS, GA WKZJ
- MONROE-EL DORADO, TX KJMG
- LAWTON, OK KKRX
- LAKE CHARLES, LA KZWA
Michael Baisden hires veteran radio and television personality Lorenzo “Ice Tea” Thomas.
Michael Baisden hires veteran radio and television personality Lorenzo “Ice Tea” Thomas.
Industry vet Lorenzo “Ice Tea” Thomas is now a part of the Michael Baisden team. Thomas, who has been recognized as Urban Network Magazine’s Radio Air Personality of the Year and Radio Facts Magazine’s Radio DJ of the Millennium, will be the Michael Baisden Show’s new Head of Production and he will be Baisden’s back up when he’s on vacation.
“I’m excited to have Lorenzo aboard as a part of the team,” Baisden says. “He will be a vital part of running our production department.”
“I’m a truly blessed to be given this opportunity to work with Michael who has a work ethic that is second to none. His energy is something I can identify with. More importantly, today’s audience commands and craves content, and that’s exactly where Michael has excelled in the past,” said Thomas.
Mr. Thomas will utilize his expertise as a Miami Film School graduate to develop Michael’s sit down interviews for streaming proposes. Also, Lorenzo is an SAG actor with a few film projects coming up this year. Thomas was previously based in Miami where he was an afternoon on-air radio personality at WEDR 99 JAMZ for 11 years. To add, Lorenzo “Ice-Tea” Thomas is a native New Yorker, as has also worked in Washington, DC, Baltimore, Richmond, and Norfolk.
Read MoreMichael Baisden Returns to Washington’s ‘Adult Mix’ WHUR 96.3FM
“Michael Baisden Returns to Washington’s ‘Adult Mix’ WHUR 96.3FM” 
Washington, D.C., (January 9, 2017) He’s back! “The Bad Boy of Radio” Michael Baisden is making his long awaited return to the airwaves on WHUR 96.3FM – Howard University Radio Network. The new syndicated “Michael Baisden Show” is set to re-‐launch Monday, January 16th weekdays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Baisden is no stranger to WHUR’s “Adult Mix.” His nationally syndicated program aired successfully on the station from 2005 to 2013.
“We are very excited to have Michael back in our program line up and we look forward to the same ratings success he enjoyed in previous years,” said WHUR General Manager Jim Watkins. Baisden will be joined on the show by his sidekick George Willborn, “The Stress Reliever,” who is a fan favorite for Washington listeners. The program, provided by Superadio Networks in conjuction with American Urban Radio Networks, will be heard in some 40 other cities nationwide and will maintain its mixture of R&B music with relationship talk, politics, hot topics, and activism.
A Chicago Native, the 53-‐year-‐old Baisden’s, road to success began in 1995 with the self publishing of his first book, “Never Satisfied: How and Why Men Cheat.” He has gone on to write a host of other books, including “Men Cry in the Dark,” and “The Maintenance Man.” The latter two books have been adapted to stage plays. Baisden’s addition to WHUR rounds out the station’s weekday programming that include the “The Steve Harvey Morning Show” from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., “The Triscina Grey Show” heard from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the “Daily Drum” with newsman Harold Fisher at 7 p.m. and the “Original Quiet Storm“ with Jeff Brown from 7:30 p.m. to 12-‐midnight.
Read MoreMicheal Baisden Picks up Another Station for Return to Radio
CMG ATLANTA RADIO NAMES MICHAEL BAISDEN NEW AFTERNOON DRIVE HOST FOR KISS 104.1
Atlanta, GA — Wednesday, December 14, 2016 — Cox Media Group (CMG) Atlanta Radio has announced Michael Baisden as its new afternoon drive host on KISS 104.1 FM, effective Jan. 16, 2017. The Michael Baisden show is syndicated with KISS as the flagship station.
“We are looking forward to Michael returning to radio and returning to Atlanta on KISS 104,” said CMG Atlanta Radio’s VP of Programming Tony Kidd. “He’s an extraordinary talent providing humor, relationship advice and social awareness and solutions for change to the adult audience.”
Baisden is undeniably one of the most influential and engaging personalities in radio history. His meteoric rise to No. 1 redefined radio with the numbers to back it up. The show was heard in over 100 cities nationwide with over 7 million loyal listeners daily.
“I’m excited to be joining the Kiss 104 family for the launch of the new Michael Baisden Show,” Baisden said. “I’m anxious to get back to having fun with my fans and engaging them in adult conversation about relationships, promote mentoring, and encourage them to live their dreams of starting a business, and of course, playing the best music on the planet! I truly miss talking to my radio family on the radio every day and listening to their crazy stories. But what I miss most is making a difference in their lives.”
Michael Baisden’s career began when he took a leap of faith to leave his job driving trains in Chicago to self-publish his book and began touring the country selling books out of the trunk of his car. The New York Timesbest-selling author and relationship expert hosted two nationally syndicated TV talk shows: a daytime called “Talk or Walk”, and a late night talk show titled “Baisden After Dark.”
Baisden has carved a unique niche as a speaker, radio personality, philanthropist and social activist. He was honored by BBBS with the Michael Baisden Inspiration Award, which is given to people who are dedicating themselves to actively recruiting mentors. Baisden also founded the Michael Baisden Foundation focusing on education, literacy and mentoring.
About Cox Media GroupCox Media Group is an integratedbroadcasting, publishing, directmarketing and digital media company that includes the national advertising rep firms of Cox Reps. Additionally, CMG owns Cox Target Media, which operates Valpak, one of North America’s leadingdirect marketing companies, and Savings.com, a leadingonline source for savings. The company’soperations currently include14 broadcast television stations andone local cable channel, more than 60 radio stations, six daily newspapers and more than a dozen non-daily publications, and more than 100 digital services. CMG currentlyoperates in more than20 media markets and reaches approximately 52million Americans weekly, including more than 31 million TV viewers, more than 3.5 million newspaper readers, and more than 14 million radiolisteners. For more information about Cox Media Group, please check us out online at www.coxmediagroup.com.
