Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame
Documenting, preserving, and honoring the people and stations shaping the art and science of radio broadcasting throughout the state of Tennessee.
Looking for a college intern to work at your station for college credit? Contact Dianna Monk, General Manager of WVCP at Vol State Community College at www.volstate.edu/wvcp or call 615-230-3218
Remembering Dr. Allen Johnson
The Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Dr. Allen Johnson.
Allen Johnson, known to generations of radio listeners as the unforgettable Dr. Al Adams, leaves behind a remarkable legacy in broadcasting, education, and ministry. A gifted on-air radio personality, respected program director, dedicated educator, and devoted man of God, Allen devoted nearly five decades of his life to entertaining audiences, inspiring young broadcasters, teaching others, and shaping the future of radio in Tennessee and beyond.
Allen’s broadcasting career began in 1959 and spanned nearly two decades on the air, through 1976. During those years, his distinctive personality and talent brought him to radio audiences in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Cincinnati and St. Louis; and Syracuse and Buffalo, New York. As “Dr. Al Adams,” he became a memorable presence to generations of listeners and earned the respect of colleagues throughout the broadcasting industry.
In 1976, Allen made a career change that would become one of the defining chapters of his life. He joined Fulton High School as a radio broadcasting instructor, beginning what would become a 28-year career dedicated to teaching and mentoring young people in the art and craft of radio broadcasting. He also managed WKCS-FM, the student-operated radio station at Fulton High School. READ MORE….
2026 Pre-Show Tribute and Selection Videos (Play Video)
Video includes inductee tributes from 2026 Pre-Show
The George DeVault Scholarship Fund
Donate ONLINE today to the George DeVault Scholarship Fund, established in 2026 by the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame and awarded to a young/student broadcaster.
To donate by mail, send a check to:
George DeVault Scholarship
c/o Dara Worrell
East Tennessee Foundation
525 Portland St. Knoxville, TN 37919
FIND OUT MORE
How We Honor the Legendary Voices of Tennessee Radio
Inductees
Meet the Inductees of the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame beginning in 2012. Inductees are recognized annually by year.
The Luther Award
An annual award presented to radio stations in Tennessee demonstrating a commitment to its community through outstanding service.
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors serves the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame and are elected to rotating positions to bring leadership to our community.
Want to learn more about the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame?
The Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame
Preserving the Legendary Voices of Tennessee
HOW DO I JOIN THE TENNESSEE RADIO HALL OF FAME?
Membership Opportunities
We are a non-profit organization documenting, preserving and honoring the people and stations shaping the art and science of radio broadcasting throughout the state of Tennessee. Hall of Fame honorees are “inductees” but on-air personalities with two years of radio experience, and stations across the state of Tennessee, can become members of the organization with a yearly membership.
INDIVIDUAL MEMBER
$30 Annual
Based on Individual Member Rate *
How It Works…
- Annual Membership
- Automatic Renewal
- Secure Checkout
- $30 Per Year
- Two Years of Personal Radio Experience in Tennessee Required
STATION PARNTER MEMBER
$100 Annual
Based on Radio Station or Group *
How It Works…
- Annual Full Membership
- ONE vote for the Hall of Fame
- Ability to Nominate Inductees
- Recognition on Website
- TWO Ceremony Tickets and an Ad in Ceremony Program
STATION FULL MEMBER
$150 Annual
Based on Radio Station or Group *
How It Works…
- Annual Full Membership
- TWO vote for the Hall of Fame
- Ability to Nominate Inductees
- Recognition on Website
- TWO Ceremony Tickets and an Ad in Ceremony Program
All Nominations for Inductees to the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame must come from Members Only
Radio History in Tennessee
Radio in Tennessee began in the early 1920s, with WNOX in Knoxville in 1921, and WSM in Nashville in 1925. The latter launched the iconic Grand Ole Opry. Tennessee became a powerhouse in country and R&B, with stations like WLAC in Nashville and WIVK in Knoxville shaping national trends through high-powered, clear-channel broadcasting.
The Variety of Radio Voices
Radio in Tennessee features a diverse mix of genres in music and entertainment. Most known for the rise of country, radio in Tennessee has roots in country, rock, bluegrass, gospel, blues, jazz and folk. The rise of news and talk radio led to partnership with syndicated shows from Tennessee around the country, and a strong high school, prep and amateur sports market exploded with major college sports and professional sports with the Titans, Predators, Grizzlies, Nashville SC, Arena Football and MiLB.
HEAR FROM THOSE WHO WORK WITH US
Testimonials and Events
The Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame is a great organization that preserves the history of the legendary voices in Tennessee. I am happy to be a part of this group and hope we can continue to bring awareness and honor to many who have gone before us. I encourage you to get involved.
Kris Freeman
Announcer | SMS Multimedia
Upcoming Events
The 2026 Induction Ceremony was held on July 25, 2026. Check back here in the future for event information!
Our Partners
Board of directors
Board of Directors – Officers
Bob Kesling
President
Pamela Furr
Vice President | Treasurer
Vicki Messer
Secretary
Brian Craig
Historian
About This Website
This website was built by Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame Member Kris Freeman of SMS Multimedia and all content is copyright the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame and aforementioned partners, members and inductees.