The National Black Radio Hall of Fame inducted its Class of 2026 this week in Charlotte. Stevie Wonder, Chaka Khan and Charlemagne Tha God headline a six-member class.
What We Know The NBRHOF honored six inductees across its award categories. Stevie Wonder received the African American Station Owner Award, a nod to his longtime ownership of KJLH in Los Angeles. Shirley Caesar earned the Gospel Radio Personality Award, and Tony Gray took the Lifetime Media Achievement Award. Meanwhile, Skip Dillard (Talented Brothers of Radio), Chaka Khan (Radio Music Career Artist of the Year) and Charlemagne Tha God (Radio Pioneer) round out the class.
What They Said “Hurricane Dave” Smith, the Hall’s chairperson for inductions and nominations, summed up the week simply: “It was amazing to be in the Queen City.” He added that celebrating Black radio’s trailblazers and innovators is always an honor. Founder and President Bernie Hayes, along with national office leaders Uvee Hayes and Marsha Washington George, also thanked Charlotte for hosting.
What Remains Unclear The Class of 2027 is headed to Orlando. However, the organization has not yet announced dates, a venue or nomination details.
What It Means This class shows just how wide Black radio’s reach runs. It spans a station owner, gospel royalty, a funk icon and one of today’s most influential morning voices. Ultimately, the Hall of Fame keeps making the case that these voices didn’t just play the culture — they built it.
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