NAB HOF To Induct Stretch & Bobbito
• The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) announced Adrian “Stretch Armstrong” Bartos and Bobbito García as the 2023 NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame radio inductees. The revolutionary pair, who came to fame hosting the Stretch Armstrong and Bobbito Show at Columbia University’s WKCR-FM in the ’90s, will be inducted at a special ceremony on the main stage at NAB Show on April 17 in Las Vegas. The induction of Bartos (right) and García (left) into the NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame coincides with the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop, which will be celebrated throughout 2023.
The pair’s self-titled show, which ran from 1990-98 was a Hip-Hop radio phenomenon, helping to launch the careers of superstar artists such as Jay-Z, Nas, Wu-Tang Clan, The Notorious B.I.G. and Eminem. It was named the “Best Hip Hop Radio Show of All Time” by The Source and was the subject of the 2015 documentary, Stretch and Bobbito: Radio That Changed Lives.
In addition to his notoriety as a DJ, García is a former pro basketball player and critically acclaimed author, known for his unique “sneaker journalism,” as evidenced by his book, Where’d You Get Those? NYC’s Sneaker Culture: 1960-1987, before hosting a first-of-its-kind series on ESPN, It’s the Shoes. After being part of the groundbreaking Nike “Freestyle” commercial, the brand released seven new Air Force 1 sneakers co-designed with García, who is also the voice of EA Sports’ NBA Street video game. Bartos started in the ’80s as a DJ in downtown New York City venues. He’s now a recognized DJ and plays events worldwide. He also wrote a book on party promo art and dance culture titled, No Sleep: NYC Nightlife Flyers 1988-1999.
“Adrian Bartos and Bobbito García changed the trajectory of the hip hop genre and had a profound impact on radio audiences,” said NAB President & CEO Curtis LeGeyt. “Their innovative work at WKCR-FM, elevating the profile of unsigned musicians and introducing them to new fans, launched the careers of countless award-winning artists. We are honored to induct them into the NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame.”
The NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame recognizes radio and television personalities or programs that have earned a place in broadcasting history. Past inductees include the late Jim Bohannon, All Things Considered, John Records Landecker, Cathy Hughes, Elvis Duran and Delilah. Explore the complete list of past inductees here.
