National Black Radio Hall of FameClass of 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: David G Smith
Email: dave.smith@nbrhof.org
Atlanta, GA – March 13, 2025 – The National Black Radio Hall of Fame (NBRHOF) proudly announces its Class of 2025, to be inducted at the Renaissance St. Louis Airport on Saturday, September 20, 2025.
Under the leadership of Founder & President Bernie Hayes, the National Black Radio Hall of Fame honors Black radio pioneers whose voices have shaped music, culture, and news. Induction into the NBRHOF is among the highest honors in broadcasting, ensuring that their legacy lives on at the National Black Radio Hall of Fame Museum in St. Louis at Harris Stowe State University.
"As Chairperson of this process, I am thrilled to welcome this year’s inductees," said Hurricane Dave Smith, Atlanta Chapter President. "Their impact on Black radio is undeniable, and their names will be forever enshrined."
Class of 2025 Inductees:
Talented Sisters of Radio Award.
Helen Little
JoJo O’Neal
Kathy Brown
Talented Brothers of Radio Award.
Lorenzo “Ice Tea” Thomas
Phil Nelson
Elroy Smith
Gospel Radio Personality Radio Award.
Marvin Sapp
Willie May Mciver
African American Station Owner Award.
Barry Mayo
The African American Radio Station Promotions Award.
Mike Kelly
Cheryl Winston
The African American Record Pool Distributors Award.
Coalition DJs
The Talk Radio Personality Award.
Bev Johnson
The Personality that has reached out to the Community Award.
Dee Hill
The Hip Hop Radio Personality Award.
Ed Lover
The House Music Pioneer Award
Farley “Jackmaster” Funk
The Talented Sisters of Blues Radio Award.
Renee Smith (Blues Singer)
The Talented Brothers of Blues Radio Award.
Mr. Rojene Bailey “BluesTime in the City”
The Radio Music Career Artists of the Year Inductee.
Arrested Development
The Lifetime Media Achievement Award Inductee.
J. Anthony Brown
The Broadcasters Chairman’s Leadership Award Inductee.
Marsha Washington George, aka Radio Lady
Production and Imaging Award “Mitch Faulkner Award”
Marc Young
The Radio Pioneer Award.
Shirley Strawberry
Ron Atkins
Rick Roberts “JoJo”
Robin Boyce
Barbara Taylor
Don Saint Johnn
The Posthumous Award Inductee. (Appointed by the board this year)
Jerry Boulding
Wanda Smith
Van Douglas
Gary Young
Cleo Sears
Sid Kennedy
Charles “Hoppy” Adams
Mary Mason
Herb Kent
About the National Black Radio Hall of Fame
The National Black Radio Hall of Fame is dedicated to preserving the legacy and impact of African American broadcasters. Through induction ceremonies, historical preservation, and educational initiatives, the Hall of Fame ensures that the contributions of Black radio pioneers continue to inspire future generations. The NBRHOF Museum, located in St. Louis, Missouri, serves as a permanent tribute to these icons, showcasing their remarkable stories and influence on the industry.
Join us as we celebrate the voices that have shaped Black radio history!
### MEDIA CONTACT:
David G. Smith
Chairperson – Nominations and Inductions
National Black Radio Hall of Fame