By: Lee Michaels – Radio News Now
Published: July 3, 2025

In a media world that’s constantly evolving, one radio format continues to punch above its weight: Urban AC (Urban Adult Contemporary). While CHR, Rock, and even Top 40 formats fluctuate, Urban AC has held strong — often claiming #1 or Top 3 spots in major cities from coast to coast.

But why?

Let’s dive into what makes Urban AC such a powerhouse — and why it continues to thrive in Los Angeles, Atlanta, New York, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, and beyond.

🎯 1. A Loyal, Multi-Generational Audience

Urban AC targets Adults 25–54, with a strong base among listeners aged 35–64. This group is:

  • Deeply loyal to personalities and stations
  • Less likely to abandon FM for streaming-only options
  • Highly community-driven, tuning in for local content and connection
  • Financially stable — making them prime targets for advertisers

These listeners grew up with radio — and for many, it still plays a central role in their morning routines, commutes, and even workplace environments.

📻 2. Format Flexibility: Classic + Contemporary

Urban AC offers a unique blend of:

  • ’90s & 2000s R&B hits (Mary J. Blige, Usher, Toni Braxton)
  • Classic soul/funk legends (Luther Vandross, Anita Baker, The Isley Brothers)
  • Selective new R&B and crossover hip-hop artists (H.E.R., Jazmine Sullivan, Muni Long)

This mix satisfies nostalgia without sounding dated. And unlike CHR, Urban AC stations don’t overload new music — instead, they curate carefully, keeping the audience’s comfort zone in mind.

📍Example:

KJLH 102.3 – Los Angeles
Owned by Stevie Wonder, KJLH blends timeless R&B with public service announcements, local news, and even spiritual programming — proving that community and consistency win loyalty.

🎙️ 3. Strong Personality-Driven Morning Shows

Urban AC stations prioritize local and relatable on-air talent, especially during morning drive.

  • The Steve Harvey Morning Show is syndicated on 100+ stations and often leads ratings in Black and multicultural markets.
  • Erica Campbell’s “Get Up! Mornings” blends gospel, lifestyle, and real talk — dominating in faith-based communities.
  • Many Urban AC stations also invest in local midday or afternoon talent, not just voice-tracking or automation.

These shows go beyond music — they offer:

  • Relationship advice
  • Faith-based affirmations
  • Community announcements
  • Interviews with artists, politicians, and local leaders

💬 4. Community Connection Is Core

Urban AC thrives because it reflects the real-life concerns, culture, and conversation of its audience:

  • Racial justice, education, faith, health, and entrepreneurship
  • Local school board elections, church events, and business expos
  • Mental health and wellness discussions
  • Covid recovery and economic info tailored to the Black community

This format talks with its audience, not at them.

Urban AC’s local programming, church spotlights, and community health initiatives give it an authenticity that algorithm-based platforms simply can’t replicate.

💼 5. Advertisers Love the Demo

Urban AC reaches a highly desirable advertising demographic:

  • Women 35–54 with strong purchasing power
  • African-American professionals, entrepreneurs, parents, and voters
  • Loyal listeners who trust the station — making ad messages more effective

This makes the format attractive to:

  • Healthcare providers
  • Political campaigns
  • Local businesses
  • Auto dealerships
  • National lifestyle brands like Dove, AT&T, or State Farm

In fact, many political ad dollars are spent on Urban AC in key election markets due to its influence and reach.

🏆 6. Ratings Don’t Lie – Urban AC Wins Markets

Let’s look at real market performance:

✅ Atlanta – KISS 104.1 FM (WALR)

  • Routinely Top 3 in Nielsen
  • Known for its Steve Harvey Morning Show, old-school R&B, and public affairs programming

✅ Washington D.C. – Majic 102.3/92.7 (WMMJ)

  • Urban One-owned powerhouse
  • Mix of syndicated and local talent
  • Strong voice on Black issues in the nation’s capital

✅ Philadelphia – WDAS 105.3 FM

  • iHeart’s iconic Urban AC station
  • Community events + throwbacks + new R&B
  • Consistently a Top 5 station

✅ Chicago – V103 (WVAZ)

  • One of the most iconic Urban AC stations in the U.S.
  • Dominates in ratings with a blend of old-school hits and community involvement
  • Syndicates Steve Harvey, with strong local midday programming

🧠 Final Thought

Urban AC isn’t just a format — it’s a cultural force.

In an era where automation and digital disruption are shaking the industry, Urban AC’s strength lies in its roots: real people, real stories, real soul. It understands its audience, respects its history, and delivers music and talk that matter.

It’s no wonder it continues to dominate the airwaves — and it’s not slowing down any time soon.

What Urban AC station do you listen to?
Tag us with #RadioNewsNow and shout out your favorite show, DJ, or playlist — we want to feature your city next!

— Lee Michaels
Founder, Radio News Now