O’Jay Enters Tennessee Radio HOF
• We join the rest of the industry in congratulating Memphis radio icon Bobby O’Jay, PD/morning personality on iHeartMedia’s WDIA 1070AM, “The Heart & Soul of Memphis” since 1983, on his upcoming induction to the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame. O’Jay will officially be enshrined on July 31 during a ceremony to be held at the Embassy Suites Hotel & Convention Center in Murfreesboro.
This annual ceremony honors and recognizes Tennessee broadcasters who make a difference through their incredible leadership, integrity, reliability, service over self, team-building and mentoring across the state. O’Jay is the fourth personality to be inducted into the Tennessee Radio HOF, joining other legendary broadcasters Rufus Thomas, Nat D. Williams and Bev Johnson.
Originally from Batesville, MS, O’Jay got his radio start in Montgomery, AL and went on to work in Milwaukee, Houston, Dallas and Chicago before landing his dream job at WDIA/Memphis in February 1983, where he has ably served as Program Director and an outspoken on-air personality. Bobby O’Jay’s Fun Morning Show airs weekdays from 6-10am on WDIA 1070AM, which is the first radio station in America that was programmed entirely by African Americans for African Americans. Many music legends got their start by working at WDIA, including B.B. King and the aforementioned Rufus Thomas.
“Bobby O’Jay is so deserving of this honor,” said Kevin Klein, Market President of iHeartMedia Memphis and Tupelo. “It makes me so proud that his 38 years of talking to the Memphis community on WDIA are finally recognized. WDIA is a station rich in history and a staple to the Black community. Congrats, Bobby for all you have done for Memphis.” Sue Purnell, SVP of Programming for iHeartMedia Memphis, remarked, “Bobby O’Jay’s impact on our industry is undeniable. He’s an absolute champion when it comes to our community, and we’re overjoyed to see Bobby join the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame.” Pictured, shortly after the big announcement (l-r): Kevin Klein, Bobby O’Jay, WDIA personality Bev Johnson, and Sue Purnell.
