Radio One to take 80% of Reach Media, combine programming

0

Radio OneRadio One will be consolidating its Syndication One Urban programming lineup with Reach Media next year. The Urban radio group will also up its ownership stake in Reach Media from 53% to 80%. The new combined lineup includes Tom Joyner, Rickey Smiley, Russ Parr, Yolanda Adams, Reverend Al Sharpton, Warren Ballentine and CoCo Brother. In 2013, Reach Media will use its strong affiliate lineup and relationships with leading Urban stations to also launch a new network. Future plans include the acquisition and development of additional popular Urban talent.


Reach Media will expand its dedicated sales and marketing staff to sell the radio network advertising inventory along with web and event sponsorships.

Said Radio One CEO and President Alfred Liggins: “Radio One has a commitment to be the leader in radio and online programming with compelling entertainment and information for the African-American audience. Combining our assets under Reach Media offers an incredibly broad platform for affiliate stations and advertisers to connect with our loyal audience.”

Added David Kantor, Reach Media CEO: “In bringing together the most compelling Urban programming in radio, we’ve created a platform that can focus on outstanding talent for our affiliates and the delivery of an incredibly responsive consumer base. We look forward to expanding our offerings and becoming the primary radio network for advertisers to reach African-Americans.”

Reach Media was founded in 2003 by Joyner and Kantor. It is a cross-platform media company featuring radio, online, events and initiatives relevant to the African-American community. The company provides the nation’s #1 syndicated urban morning show, The Tom Joyner Morning Show, which airs in more than 105 markets. Joyner’s website, BlackAmericaWeb.com, has more than 1.5 million registered users and delivers news with exclusive reports as well as interactive elements with on demand audio. Reach Media also handles The Allstate Tom Joyner Family Reunion, The Tom Joyner Foundation Fantastic Voyage Cruise and Tom Joyner’s Take a Loved One to the Dr. Day health initiative.