Posted by | Tamara Ren’ee
Radio Pioneer Hal Jackson has succumbed to an undisclosed illness at the age of 96. Jackson who paved the way for so many in the radio broadcasting industry remained on air with WBLS, 107.5 until a few weeks ago. He hosted a weekly program called “Sunday Classics”.
With over 75 years in the radio business he had broken numerous barriers and stereotypes. Jackson was a pioneer and a trailblazer for many of today’s radio personalities including Tom Joyner, Ricky Smiley, Wendy Williams and Steve Harvey. Jackson also held numerous jobs over the years including music host, talk host, sportscaster, TV host, live emcee and a historian for black music and radio. In 2010 he was given the name the “Giant of Broadcasting” by the Library of American Broadcasting.
Being a radio industry icon was not the single defining trait for Jackson. He was also known for his civic efforts. He had a love for positively impacting our youth through his foundation Talented Teens International Pageant.
His accolades include being the 1st black host inducted into the National Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame 1990 and National Radio Hall of Fame 1995. Throughout his lifetime he received four Presidential Commendations.
Source: NYDailynews.com
