Legendary Memphis DJ Bobby O’Jay passed away Tuesday at the age of 68. As of now, his cause of death is unknown, according to Billboard.
O’Jay was both an air personality and program director of the city’s WDIA radio, the country’s first radio station programmed for Black listeners. The beloved radio personality spent 38 years as an important and respected voice for the Black community, including interviewing high-profile celebrities such as Whitney Houston and Muhammad Ali.
O’Jay’s contributions to Black music and culture garnered WDIA’s induction into Tennessee’s Hall of Fame in 2013, as well as his recognition in 2020 by the Living Legends Foundation.
Upon learning of the news of O’Jay’s passing, Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland posted a note on Twitter saying, “I’m very sorry to learn about the passing of Bobby O’Jay. I know for many Memphians, including my wife, the day was not complete unless they tuned in to hear what Bobby had to say. I always enjoyed being with Bobby on his show or otherwise.”
Likewise, Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris, expressed his condolences in a message on Twitter.
“Our thoughts and our prayers are with the family and friends of legendary Memphis radio personality Bobby O’Jay, who passed away today,” wrote Harris. “For so many of us, our mornings were not complete without a dose of Bobbyology. He will truly be missed.”
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