Celebrating 45 Years of Urban One: A Legacy of Empowerment and Community

Urban One, an African-American-led media conglomerate, recently celebrated its 45th anniversary. Founded by the pioneering Cathy Hughes, the journey of Urban One reflects decades of growth and innovation in the media landscape, transforming from a single radio station into a major platform for Black voices in news and entertainment.

The Story Behind Urban One

Founded on October 2, 1980, Hughes created Urban One with a vision to empower Black communities by providing valuable news and entertainment content. Her determination stemmed from a personal passion for radio, as she expressed, “I always knew that I wanted to be in radio. I felt it, I loved it, I listened to it, and I analyzed just how I could strategically fit in.”

This commitment to representation has transformed the company into a significant force in media, encompassing outlets like TV One, Radio One, Reach Media, iOne Digital, One Solution, and Cleo TV. As one of the largest African-American content providers in the U.S., Urban One plays a crucial role in amplifying Black voices.

Innovating Urban Radio

One of Hughes’ groundbreaking contributions was establishing “The Quiet Storm,” a radio format that shifted the paradigm of urban radio. This innovative approach allowed DJs to embrace authenticity, moving away from stereotypes that often characterized Black media voices. Hughes explained, “The Quiet Storm allowed African-American air personalities as well as White air personalities who targeted a Black listening audience to literally be themselves and sound – quite frankly – less buffoonish.”

This shift not only changed the way DJs operated but also provided a platform for genuine connection with audiences. It was a pivotal moment in the evolution of urban radio, setting a precedent for future generations.

Cultural Impact and Community Connection

The importance of Urban One extends beyond entertainment; it has been instrumental in bringing attention to community issues often overlooked by mainstream media. Former Maryland State Senator and Radio One host Larry Young reflected on his time with the company, noting, “Our job was to be as close to the community and assess the community’s position and stand with the community on the issues that mattered.” Young’s iconic “Larry Young Morning Show” served as a vital platform for localized conversations, turning listeners into a family sharing their concerns and triumphs.

Expanding Horizons

As Urban One evolved, it recognized the importance of diversity within its programming. Hughes emphasized, “One of the strategies for our growth and development is to service our Brown brothers and sisters and not just the Black community.” This commitment has led Urban One to expand into Spanish-speaking markets, along with evolving its offerings to include culturally relevant programming.

Recent developments include the transition of an FM frequency in the Washington, D.C., area to a Spanish-language tropical music station, further extending the reach of Urban One to meet community demands. Hughes recognized the value of adapting to audience changes, stating, “It’s important for you to grow with your audience.”

Entering a New Era with Fresh Perspectives

The arrival of new voices like Tiara Laniece signals a promising future for Urban One. As an emerging on-air personality, Laniece emphasizes the importance of understanding and engaging with younger audiences. Her focus on adapting to the unique experiences of youth—shaped by rapid social and economic changes—demonstrates a commitment to keeping Urban One relevant across generations.

“I love going into new opportunities guided by my passion and learning new things,” Laniece shared, embodying the spirit of innovation and connection woven throughout Urban One’s history.

Continuation of Legacy

As Urban One looks forward to the next 45 years, its foundational commitment to community needs and empowerment remains unwavering. This legacy is more than just about broadcasting; it’s about building a family around shared stories, triumphs, and challenges. By creating space for diverse voices and fostering connections, Urban One continues to play a critical role in shaping the media landscape for present and future generations.

The journey of Urban One is a testament to the power of vision, innovation, and the unwavering spirit of community empowerment in the media industry.