Beginning today the number one Hip-Hop morning show with nationally renowned comedian Rickey Smiley, will debut on Memphis’ HOT 107.1. The Rickey Smiley Morning Show, known for its personal appeal, raw humor and personal authenticity; delivers an entertaining show of entertainment and empowerment with a cast of characters including Ebony Steele, Gary with da Tea, Headcrack, Juicy, Special K and Rock T. The show entertains Black audiences daily in over 60 markets now including Memphis, TN.Excited about joining the Memphis market and HOT 107.1 Smiley commented, “I’m really excited about coming to the Bluff City! The Rickey Smiley Morning Show team looks forward to being a part of all that Memphis has to offer.”Gary Bernstein, SVP Programming, REACH Media, says, “2013 was an amazing year for the program. Rickey continued his amazing growth blazing to over 60 radio stations. He not only has been a ratings leader in the majority of his markets, but he has taken the extra time to visit his affiliates and help those that are less fortunate. I clearly remember the impact behind his delivering turkey’s to cancer patient’s homes in Miami as well as bailing an 80 year old female out of jail in Dallas. Truth be said, there is only one Rickey Smiley. That is why we intend to do big things in Memphis and beyond in 2014.”The HOT 107.1 weekday line-up beginning January 6th will include The Rickey Smiley Morning Show from 5am-9am while the afternoon and evening line up will remain constant with 107 minutes of non-stop hip-hop music.“We are so excited about the launch of The Rickey Smiley Morning Show on our airwaves. The program has the perfect balance of music, funny, community and overall brilliance! The program is a winner and that is why we are proud to have Rickey on our airwaves!” stated Chris Taylor, Operations Manager for Flinn Broadcasting in Memphis.