iHeartMedia Memphis announced today that Tracy Bethea has been named Program Director for 1070 WDIA, The Heart & Soul of Memphis, effective immediately. iHeartMedia Memphis has a strong cross-platform presence and includes a number of iconic brands and franchises — both broadcast and digital — encompassing more than seven stations comprised of music, talk and news formats.
iHeartMedia has the leading consumer reach and influence across multiple platforms and delivers more live programming than any other media company. As Program Director, Tracy Bethea will be responsible for the station’s music content, marketing, promotion, events, and new on-air material. Bethea will report to Sue “Bis Sue” Purnell, Senior Vice President of Programming for iHeartMedia Mid-South Area.
“Tracy was the perfect choice as the Program Director for WDIA,” says Market President Kevin Klein. “She understands the legacy of being the first black programmed radio station in America. As WDIA celebrates 75 years of black programming this year, Tracy’s sense of history and her relationship with Stan Bell and Bev Johnson will only keep WDIA strong for years to come”.
Tracy Bethea joins 1070 WDIA from sister station 95.7 Hallelujah FM, where she also served as Program Director. She began her career when she was 19 years old at WDIA in the news department, hired by the late Bobby O’Jay.
“This is a truly an honor,” says Tracy Bethea. “My radio legacy was created at this station, and it was Bobby O’Jay that afforded me the opportunity when I was 19 years old. I look forward to returning to my roots and continuing the legacy of what makes WDIA so special to its listeners”.
