Urban One Audio Unit Announces Leadership Transition

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, October 29, 2024 | 3:56pm CT

David Kantor

Urban One has set the date for the upcoming retirement of David Kantor, the long-serving CEO of its audio division, comprised of Radio One and Reach Media. Kantor's departure is set for January 5, 2025, after nearly two decades of leadership within the company. Succeeding him will be Eddie Harrell, Jr. and Deon Levingston, who have been appointed as co-presidents of the Audio Division.

Kantor joined Urban One in 2005 and ascended to the CEO role in 2015. Under his stewardship, the division not only expanded its syndication efforts but also ventured into new arenas such as podcasting. Kantor was pivotal in Urban One's strategic acquisitions and diversification of its station formats across key markets.

Throughout his career, Kantor held various key roles across major organizations, including Cox Cable, Satellite Music Network, ABC Radio Networks and AMFM Inc. He notably co-founded Reach Media with Tom Joyner in 2003, which, after being acquired by Urban One, grew to serve 94% of the U.S. African American population through over 300 affiliate stations.

The incoming co-presidents, Eddie Harrell, Jr. and Deon Levingston, are seasoned veterans within Urban One. Harrell currently manages the Ohio markets, including Cincinnati, Cleveland and Columbus, where he has demonstrated a capacity for growth and leadership. Levingston oversees the Indianapolis region, handling a diverse portfolio of Urban, News/Talk, CHR and Hispanic formats.

Urban One CEO Alfred Liggins expressed confidence in the capabilities of Harrell and Levingston to propel the company forward. "Their deep understanding of our brand, audience, and industry position them perfectly to build on the strong legacy that David leaves behind," said Liggins.