Ken Johnson

37 POSTS
Ken Johnson is an Urban/Hip-Hop columnist for Barrett Media. Born and raised in Washington DC, his career experiences include serving as VP of Urban formats for Cumulus Media, holding the Director of Urban Programming post at ABC Radio Networks, and programming stations in Birmingham, Boston, Philadelphia, and New York City. He has also managed affiliate relations for the Nick Cannon show, and worked as the Executive Producer of The Hughley Truth Podcast hosted by comedian DL Hughley. Ken currently runs Mean Ole Lion Media, a content creation company and podcast network. He can be reached by email at ken@kenjohnsonmedia.com.

How AI Can Help Urban Radio Deliver Hyper Local Content

Imagine using voices from the cluster, even your own, mixed with AI voices to deliver hyperlocal content.

Why New Music Is the Lifeblood of Urban Radio

Music is subjective. But it’s supposed to be subjective for the listener, not necessarily the programmer.

Why Urban Radio’s Future Depends on a Bold Rebrand Strategy

Think about what’s trending now in music, video, entertainment, and social media. Are you where your listeners are?

What a Magazine Editor Knows That Urban Radio PDs Should Practice

Audience is audience, whether they are listeners, viewers or readers.

Principles To Guide Urban Radio In Today’s Political Climate

Lean into what your community needs. Be responsible. Be accountable. And always, always do the right thing.

Breaking

Fox & Friends Hosts Light Empire State Building During Fox News 30th Anniversary Celebration

"Fox continues to evolve, continues to get better, continues to respond to the audience. Every day we're thankful."

Dianna Russini Reportedly Hiring Crisis Publicist Ahead Of Potential Sports Media Return

"Russini resigned from The Athletic in April amid controversy over her relationship with Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel."

Katie Zacharia, Former Fox News and Newsmax Commentator, Named White House Press Secretary

Zacharia’s appointment continues Trump’s practice of choosing communicators with experience in conservative media and administration messaging.

Gracie Awards Open Nominations for 2027 Ceremony

"We look forward to honoring the content that moved audiences in 2026 and continuing the Gracies’ long-standing investment in the people who will shape what comes next.”