Approaching The Summit is a series of special interviews created in partnership with Point to Point Marketing featuring speakers at the upcoming 2026 Barrett Media Audio Summit in New York City. Follow along with this series as prominent names surrounding the event June 30-July 2 share their insights and expectations for what’s to come in the big apple. The Summit takes place at the SVA Theatre on West 23rd Street. For tickets and hotel room reservations, click here or visit the Summit section at the top of the website.
Damion “Damizza” Young built his reputation as one of the most influential hip-hop programmers in radio history, helping transform Power 106 and putting Eminem into rotation before anyone else would. Ahead of his appearance at the Barrett Media Audio Summit, Young shared his thoughts on collaboration, risk, and what the next generation needs to hear.
*Editor’s Note: Answers have been edited for clarity and length.*
David Hill: Why is it important to attend industry events and keep learning?
Damizza: “The only way that greatness is achieved is through synergy and collaboration. The best music and the best ideas are built together when we share knowledge. Each of us has a piece of the puzzle, especially right now with the industry so fragmented. We all need to come together and mentor the next generation.”
Hill: What is the value of connecting with peers, friends, and even competitors at these events?
Damizza: “Steel sharpens steel. Competition just makes you better.”
David Hill: What is the biggest challenge facing your format right now?
Damizza: “Fresh ideas and taking risks. Everyone is in ‘job security’ mode right now. Not breaking enough records or trying new ideas.”
Hill: What is your favorite moment from past shows or conferences?
Damizza: “Watching Eminem headline our Powerhouse series at the peak of ‘The Real Slim Shady.’ I’ve never seen such a loud and perfectly timed event in music like that. I sat in the audience and just savored the moment.”
Hill: Which speaker, panel, or conversation are you most looking forward to this year?
Damizza: “Tough question. I’m most looking forward to networking like the old R&R or Hitmakers days. Refind the splendor of my early days. Where is Mike Easterland these days? You would find us in a healthy debate in the lobby bar back then.”
Hill: What is your view of the industry right now, both where it stands today and where it is headed?
Damizza: “The industry is stale. It needs a shake-up.”
Hill: What is one thing radio needs to do a better job of talking about honestly?
Damizza: “Taking an honest look at itself. Ask the uncomfortable questions, or become a relic.”
Hill: What would you tell someone younger in the business who is trying to figure out where they fit?
Damizza: “Surround yourself with people smarter than you and more successful than you at what you love, and just listen. Ask questions.”
Damion “Damizza” Young’s career stands as a testament to the power of betting on culture before the mainstream catches up, from breaking Eminem on Power 106 to producing records that still resonate decades later. As a rock and alternative programmer myself, I’ll be the first to say it: if you don’t know who Damizza is, you need to figure that out. As he prepares to take the stage at the Barrett Media Audio Summit, his message to the industry is clear: the next era of radio will belong to those willing to take risks, mentor the next generation, and have the courage to ask the uncomfortable questions.
Purchase your tickets to the 2026 BSM Summit here, and for more information BarrettMedia.com
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David Hill serves as a Music Radio Editor, Columnist and Features writer for Barrett Media. A radio lifer with more than 30 years behind the mic, in the control room, and in the program director’s chair, David’s career spans influential stops at brands such as WIYY 98 Rock, WBAL-AM, and 99X. He has worked across multiple formats and ownership groups, including iHeartMedia and Cumulus Media, developing talent, breaking music, and navigating every major industry shift from diary to PPM and terrestrial dominance to streaming disruption. When he’s not writing or analyzing the industry, Dave runs The Tune Farm, a marketing firm built to help artists and brands grow audience the same way great radio always has—by creating connection, not just impressions. He can be reached at David@BarrettMedia.com.
