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.

Simple Techniques That Will Make Urban Radio Contests Inclusive

“Who is this, and where are you calling from?” For years, that was the standard lead-in for radio call-in contest executions.

Urban Radio Here’s Why Your ‘Why’ Matters

One of the most valuable lessons I learned from both a PD and a consultant is this: Always know your “why.”

Radio: The Original Social Media And Community Centerpiece

Radio shared comments live on the air, broke news in real time, reviewed movies and TV shows, and introduced audiences to new music.

It’s Time For PD’s To Move On From The Aircheck Session

I’m no longer a fan of airchecks. I do believe critiques were valuable, especially for new on-air personalities. Back in the day, if you were a weekend jock looking to move up to full-time.

Urban Radio and Records Professionals Have a Friend in the Living Legends Foundation

Looking at the radio business from the outside can seduce you. Even today, in the age of social media, there are people on the outside who still want in.

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.”