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

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."