The Black Information Network will now be heard in radio’s largest market as parent company iHeartMedia begins a local marketing agreement with WWRL New York (1600) at 12 noon today (Nov. 2).
As it has in other markets, the New York launch began with the broadcast of a series of important speeches from Black history, including from Barack and Michelle Obama, Al Sharpton, Maya Angelou, and Malcom X.
The network launched June 30 to provide 24/7 news coverage with a Black voice and perspective.
Coming less than 24 hours before Election Day 2020, the launch of BIN on WWRL will include renowned journalist and BIN commentator Roland Martin anchoring live news coverage beginning at 7pm ET on election night and provide updates as the polls close and election tallies are reported nationwide. Martin, who will be joined by guests and political experts during the broadcast, will also provide updates and analysis on important state and local elections.
“The 2020 Election is one of the most consequential we've seen in American history, and Black voters will play a crucial role. Our goal at #RolandMartinUnfiltered is to provide unparalleled coverage of not only the presidential and U.S. Senate races, but the many local races that impact our people,” said Martin, who serves as host and Managing Editor of the network. “From top scholars to civil rights lawyers to health and economic experts and politically-minded celebrities, there will be no other place -- digital, cable or broadcast -- that will match the plans we have for our collaboration with iHeartMedia on election night.”
“The 2020 Presidential election will be one of the most important elections of our time and decisions made during this election will impact the lives of Black Americans for decades to come,” added BIN Director of News Operations Tanita Myers. “We’re pleased to be launching BIN in the No. 1 market in the country just in time for this critical election night and to provide millions of New York City listeners with national and local authentic and unique perspectives on the news and issues that will have a critical impact on the lives of members of the Black community.”
The broadcaster is paying $8.5 million to purchase WWRL from NJ Broadcasting in a deal that also includes a construction permit for the Edison, NJ-licensed translator W280GA at 103.9 FM. Starting today, iHeart will pay $60,000-per month under terms of the LMA.
WWRL joins a growing list of BIN affiliates, including outlets in Atlanta, Augusta, Baltimore, Birmingham, Charlotte, Cleveland, Columbus – GA, Columbus – Ohio, Dayton – Ohio, Detroit, Greenville, Macon, Miami, Minneapolis, Montgomery, AL, Nashville, New Orleans, New York City, Norfolk, Philadelphia, Riverside, San Francisco, St. Louis, Seattle and Washington. BIN is also distributed nationally through the iHeartRadio app.