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.

What Exactly is Urban Radio Selling?

I think curated concept shows for those great 1990s and 2000s tracks that aren't in regular rotation would work. The same goes for a show spotlighting the 1970s and 1980s.

How Urban Radio Should Handle Its ‘Diddy Dilemma’

This isn’t just another celebrity scandal. It’s a moment that requires judgment, tone, and a clear strategy. That’s the Diddy Dilemma.

Tips For Creating the Total Urban Radio Experience

Creating a great Total Urban Radio Experience is no small task. It’s like eating an elephant—one bite at a time.

Everything Is Political Even Urban Radio Programming

First, I must say I have no intention of discussing politics in my weekly communication with you. But as my father used to say, “Everything is political,” and boy, was he right.

A Good Urban Radio PD Does More Than Just Hand Down Orders

A good Urban PD knows that simply handing down orders isn’t enough. A PD must adapt to the unique culture of their market and station.

Breaking

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.

KXnO Layoffs Highlight the Changing Reality for Sports Radio Talent

"The industry has spent decades telling talent to be genuine, build trust, and create authentic relationships with listeners. Yet when those same qualities extend beyond sports and into the realities of the business itself, they can suddenly be viewed as liabilities instead of strengths."

Paul Finebaum Reflects on His Legacy in Receiving the Sports Media Lifetime Achievement Award

"I, somehow, have been able to survive and adapt. My career is full of different chapters. Every one of those chapters, I never really knew if I’d make it out of it."