KJLH-FM and the Los Angeles Riots of 1992: Compton's Neighborhood Station in the Aftermath of the Rodney King Verdict

by Phylis Johnson

Overview

As the only independently Black-owned radio station in South Central Los Angeles, KJLH-FM was thrust into the media spotlight in the aftermath of the Rodney King trial. During the ensuing riots, KJLH introduced the world to South Central Los Angeles as only those who lived and worked there could. Owned by musician Stevie Wonder since 1979, the station upheld his legacy of community commitment, earning a Peabody Award along the way. This book explores the social, political, and economic impact of KJLH, drawing heavily upon more than 200 pages of interviews and program transcripts from the 1992 radio coverage.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780786443864
Publisher:	McFarland & Company, Inc., Publishers
Publication date:	09/30/2009
Series:	Performing Arts/Radio
Pages:	222
Product dimensions:	5.96(w) x 9.34(h) x 0.48(d)
Age Range:	18 Years

About the Author

Phylis Johnson is Professor & Director of the School of Journalism & Mass Communication at San Jose State University.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments     
Introduction     

1: KJLH on Location
Soundscapes from South Crenshaw     
2: KJLH’s Sphere of Influence
Assessing Black Radio’s Role in the Community     
3: Lighting the Torch
KJLH and Its Black Radio Roots     
4: Fueling the Passion
The Wonderful Black Community Mission     
5: False Prophets of Corporate Radio
The Business of Black Radio     
6: On-Air Vigil
KJLH’s Transformation to Talk     
7: Tuned In and Out Front
Communicating Social Responsibility on Black Radio     
8: Change the System
Politics of Empowerment     
9: Owning a Legacy—And Hanging Onto It     
10: Keeping the Peace

Concluding Remarks     
Epilogue
E. Steven Collins on the Soul of Black Radio     
Bibliography     
Index