Donnie Simpson To Join NAB Hall Of Fame

• The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) announced legendary longtime Washington, DC air personality and program director Donnie Simpson as the 2024 NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame inductee for Radio. Simpson will be formally honored at the NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame event on Monday, April 15, at NAB Show Las Vegas. The NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame recognizes radio and television personalities or programs that have earned a place in broadcasting history.

Simpson began his 55-year broadcast career at the age of 15 when he was discovered by WJLB/Detroit while the station was broadcasting from Simpson’s mother’s record shop. Soon after, he became a teen reporter for WJLB, and later given his own radio show.

In 1977, Simpson moved to Washington, DC, to work for WKYS-FM as PD and morning host. Under his leadership, the station achieved unprecedented ratings success, and in 1983 Simpson was named as Billboard Program Director and Air Personality of the Year. Ten years later, Simpson crossed the street to work for WPGC. In 2010, after 30 years on DC radio, Simpson took a five-year hiatus, returning in 2015 to anchor afternoon drive at Radio One’s WMMJ (Majic 102.3), a stint that ended on January 12 of this year.

Simpson’s illustrious career has earned him many accolades, including induction into the R&B Music Hall of Fame in 2015 and the Radio Hall of Fame in 2020. Simpson has also worked extensively in television and movies, most notably as the host of BET’s Video Soul for 14 years.

Aside from his media work, Simpson is also dedicated to supporting several charities and nonprofit organizations. He also has served as honorary chairman of the National Black Family Reunion and has assisted in fundraising efforts for AIDS research and the United Negro College Fund. Donnie and his wife Pam established The Donnie & Pam Simpson Scholarship Fund to help minority college hopefuls in need of assistance.

“Donnie Simpson’s life-long love of radio and music, incredible talent and commitment to his audience make him well-deserving of this honor,” said NAB President & CEO Curtis LeGeyt. “We are excited to welcome Donnie into the NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame for radio during NAB Show in April and look forward to celebrating all that he has accomplished over his distinguished 55-year career.”