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

How Tim Legler Is Stealing the Show During the NBA Finals

"This series has delivered classic battles and memorable moments. Viewers are better off with Legler behind the microphone helping bring them to life. He is at the top of his game, bringing the excitement to viewers one play after another."

Glenn Beck Reflects on Leaving Fox News to Launch Blaze Media 15 Years Later

"I didn't want to do a podcast. I wanted to show that we could do a network. We were the first."

Three Media Predictions For The FIFA World Cup 2026 On FOX Sports

"Over the next six weeks, there will be unforgettable goals, shocking upsets, controversial officiating decisions, viral moments, and storylines that dominate conversations around the globe. Some of those memories will fade. Others will live forever."

Approaching the Summit: Anna Zap, Co-Host of Syndicated Anna & Raven

"If you're not evolving and aren't aware of what everyone else in the industry is doing, you'll get left behind."