Super Bowl LVII marks the first time two Black quarterbacks competed for the Vince Lombardi Trophy. Why is this important? In the past, many Black quarterbacks were switched to other positions. The perception was that Blacks were not capable leaders and did not have the intellectual capability to manage the quarterback role. There have been seven Black quarterbacks that have played in the Super Bowl to date. Doug Williams was the first in 1987. When Jalen Hurts and Patrick Mahomes met this year, the historic moment may have helped change stereotypes and the game.
Little Richard’s 1955 hit Tutti Frutti was one of the first tracks by a Black artist to break through racial barriers. In a career that lasted over six decades, Little Richard (Richard Penniman) was cited by Paul McCartney as an influence and inspired other artists including Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Elton John, and Bob Dylan. Little Richard had a succession of more than 15 hit songs in less than three years. His performances during this period resulted in integration between White and Black Americans in his audiences. Little Richard was an influencer and was nicknamed “The Originator” and “The Innovator.”
There are approximately 10,315 radio stations in the U.S., of which approximately 168 are Black owned. These stations are primarily located in the southern region of the country. The largest Black owned broadcasting company in the United States is Radio One-Urban One. From Hip Hop to R&B, Gospel, and News/Talk - Urban One delivers a range of formats and has been going strong for over 40 years. Radio One-Urban One creates content that represents Black culture and American life. Radio One-Urban One provides solutions and delivers an engaged, attractive audience to advertisers.
The National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters (NABOB) is the only trade organization representing the interests of African American owners of radio, television, and digital media across the country. The organization was founded in 1976 to establish a Black voice and viable presence in the industry. NABOB continues to work to improve and increase opportunities for Black and minority owners. NABOB provides information about sales, station acquisition, financing, and federal broadcast regulations. Katz is a supporter of NABOB, including the October 2022 conference that included plenary and breakout sessions highlighting strategy and actionable steps to create equity for Black owned broadcasters.
Where else does a New Yorker find out she has been nominated for a Grammy? On the subway, of course! Samara Joy recently won two Grammy Awards for Best New Artist and Jazz Vocal Album. The 23-year-old artist from the Bronx is set to change the world of Jazz. Samara was introduced to music by her family and went on to study at Fordham High School for the Arts, later graduating from SUNY Purchase. Samara’s unique sound and achievements to date make her one to watch as she continues her musical journey. She has two albums, self-titled Samara Joy, and a newer album, Linger Awhile.