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SILVER SPRING, Md., Oct. 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Urban One today announced the retirement of media executive David Kantor, CEO of its audio division, Radio One and Reach Media, effective January 5, 2025. Kantor, who has been an integral part of Urban One since 2005, will be succeeded by Eddie Harrell, Jr., currently Regional Vice President and General Manager of Radio One-Ohio Markets, and Deon Levingston, currently Regional Vice President and General Manager for Radio One Indianapolis. Harrell and Levingston have been named co-presidents of Urban One's Audio Division.
"The radio industry is losing one of its giants, and Urban One is bidding farewell to a venerable leader whose passion and vision have helped to shape our industry, guide our company, and serve our growing and diverse audience," said Urban One CEO Alfred Liggins. Kantor became CEO of Urban One's Audio Division in 2015. He oversaw the division's syndication growth, expansion into podcasting, and other new lines of business. He was instrumental in executing the company strategy of acquiring stations in key markets by adding additional formats.
Kantor's retirement marks the end of a distinguished career that spans decades of success. He held executive roles at Cox Cable, Satellite Music Network, ABC Radio Networks, and AMFM Inc., where he was instrumental in launching several influential radio networks, including the Tom Joyner Morning Show, Radio Disney, and ESPN Radio. However, one of his most noteworthy accomplishments is co-founding Reach Media with Tom Joyner in 2003. Urban One acquired a majority interest in the company one year later, and Kantor remained its President and CEO, growing it to over 312 affiliate stations in 94 markets and reaching 94% of the U.S. African American population.
Kantor's departure opens the door for two Urban One leaders to rise in rank and move the company forward. Eddie Harrell, Jr., and Deon Levingston will co-lead the Audio Division at the top of the new year. Harrell, a seasoned executive, is the Regional Vice President and General Manager of Radio One Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Columbus. He is a proven leader with a track record of growth and success. Deon Levingston is the Regional Vice President and General Manager of Radio One Indianapolis, the company's most diverse collection of formats, including urban, talk-news, top-forty, and Hispanic. Levingston is a seasoned executive in the advertising, broadcast radio, and television industry and brings over two decades to the role. This dynamic duo is poised to lead the company into the future.
"Eddie Harrell, Jr. and Deon Levingston are ready to take the helm and build on the legacy David leaves behind," said Alfred Liggins. "They understand our brand, our audience, and our position in this industry. Their talent and experience are just what we need moving forward."