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

2026 Barrett Media Audio Summit Presented by Point to Point Marketing Day 1 Recap

Barrett Media President Jason Barrett opened the show by welcoming attendees to SVA Theater in New York.

The Return Of The Pretty Reckless AND The Return Of The Record Release Party

"When you're a music brand, these events matter. Artists matter."

Laid Off By Innovation? Use AI To Get Hired Faster

"Remember, your advantage is not what was listed on your business card. It is who you are, not what you do."

Live Music Revenue Plateaus After Years of Record-Breaking Post-Pandemic Growth

Men..are redirecting discretionary dollars toward video games, spending double on gaming versus live events in Q1 2026.