Dyana Williams is not just an industry legend, rappers in the industry and we could literally dedicate the entire magazine to Dyana’s accomplishments, but we only have space for a more concise version of her contributions to the industry. This year we give the Industry Icon honor to Dyana Williams in our Celebrating Women of Color in Media magazine.
I see that you recently returned to radio full-time. How do you feel about that after doing it part-time and running your business for a while, and what’s your new show going to be about?
DYANA WILLIAMS: I am grateful to Radio One’s founder, Cathy Hughes, and CEO, Alfred Liggins, for affording me this next chapter opportunity in radio. After 46 years since I started in this business, I am beyond excited about returning to the airwaves full-time with my new show, “Afternoon Delight,” 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Classix1079. The prospect of slowing my life down a bit from the extensive traveling that I have been doing the last 25 years as a result of my celebrity coaching business, which I will still do on a modified level, is significant. I will be playing quality, timeless music from the ’’70s [and] ‘80s, and the Sound of Philadelphia, as well as interviewing the music-makers from those eras. Plus, featuring cultural figures is appealing.
I will be working closely with my program director, Jay Dixon, and VP of Programming, Colby Tyner, to produce a world-class broadcast that is streamed worldwide via our free app, ClassixPhilly. Legendary broadcaster Lady B is leading the day with the 9:00 am to 3:00 pm time slot and I will soulfully glide our audience through the afternoon to the early evening! It is an honor to be on the microphone daily in a major city like Philly and the surrounding areas, to share good vibes through the music and disseminate vital information to elevate our citizens.
You and a previous honoree, the legendary founder of Radio One, Cathy Hughes, are best friends. How did you meet?
Cathy Hughes and I met in 1973 when Bob Nighthawk Terry and John Paul Simpkins hired me to do my Ebony Moonbeams show on 96.3 WHUR in Washington, DC.
Did you ever program a station?
I was the program director of WOL and Radio One’s first FM acquisition, WMMJ in DC in the late ‘80s. I also hosted “Morning Drive” on Majic 102.3 when I was the program director.
You’ve been around and worked with many legends in the industry like Teddy Pendergrass and Frankie Crocker. What was it like to work with Teddy and Frankie?
Teddy Pendergrass was my best male friend, as well as my borrow-a-cup-of-sugar- neighbor. I am a proud graduate of The Godfather of Black Radio – Frankie Crocker University! He was magical to listen to and to watch him do his show was an amazing experience. Without a doubt, one of the best to ever get behind a microphone.
You’ve seen the industry go through many changes and a lot of people come and go. What do you attribute to your staying power?
As a people person, I attribute my staying power to my dedication, as well as a strong connection with the community, in addition to my extensive knowledge of Black music and my viable relationships with those who create and promote it.
What do you like most and least about today’s industry?
I’m pleased that I have been able to adapt and contribute to the entertainment industry as it has evolved. As a coach who works with many of today’s chart-topping artists, I’ve encountered many talented and smart individuals. I feel blessed to be able to collaborate with artists, executives, managers, stylists and others who support and guide the careers of creatives. What I like least is that some people have forgotten those who came before them. Put some respect on them.
With so many artists on social media, isn’t it often hard to direct them?
Many of the artists that I work with are very savvy about social media. In fact, they often teach me things and, no, it isn’t difficult to direct them. With my clients, we do review their social media and, in some cases, I make suggestions to make adjustments. My clients are very collaborative. I love seeing them excel and am proud to be a part of their journeys.
What brings you joy each day?
Actual living and interaction with my loved ones brings me enormous joy. My grandson, Luke Gamble, is the light of my world, of course, my three adult children, my young mama, my ultra-fine man, and compelling friends bring me the greatest pleasure. I truly value every second of life.
Are you seeing any new people interested in radio, or have we had a dry spell with new talent?
Over the course of my career, I have encouraged many people. I currently mentor several rising stars in radio, among them I am most proud of Jackie Paige at iPower 92.1/104.1, Radio One Richmond. My Soulful Sunday cohost, Derrick Sampson, and I just fini
