Radio Hall of Famer Joe ‘The Black Eagle’ Madison has died at the age of 74 following a bout with prostate cancer.
Madison began his career as an activist and then National Political Director with the NAACP by the age of 24. His radio career began in 1980 at 1270 WXYZ Detroit, and would later host at 96.5 WWDB-FM Philadelphia and then a long run at 980 WWRC Washington DC until its demise in early 1998. He moved to Radio One’s 1450 WOL Washington as Program Director and afternoon host that summer and would later be syndicated on the company’s network and on the channel they programmed for XM. In 2013, he moved exclusively to SiriusXM to host mornings on their “Urban View” channel. Madison was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 2019.
The Madison family released the following statement:
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our beloved husband and father, Joe Madison. He passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family. Joe dedicated his life to fighting for all those who are undervalued, underestimated, and marginalized. On air he often posed the question, “What are you going to do about it?”. Although he is no longer with us, we hope you will join us in answering that call by continuing to be proactive in the fight against injustice. The outpouring of prayers and support over the last few months lifted Joe’s spirits and strengthened us as a family. We continue to ask for privacy as we gather together to support each other through this difficult time.
Condolences can be sent to the family at joemadison.com.
Joe Madison was the voice of a generation.
Whether it was a hunger strike for voting rights or his advocacy for anti-lynching legislation that I was proud to sign in 2022, Joe fought hard against injustice.
Jill’s and my thoughts are with his wife, Sherry, and entire family.
— President Biden (@POTUS) February 2, 2024
Oh no. Oh no. I love Joe Madison so much. Fly free, black eagle. ???? https://t.co/KhTWBbxiJG
— Stephanie Miller (@StephMillerShow) February 1, 2024
God Bless Joe Madison.
One of the greatest things about doing a show for @SiriusXM was getting to work w/The Black Eagle himself & to appear on each other's shows.I learned so much from him abt being a better broadcaster, a better American & a better person.
I love you, Joe. pic.twitter.com/lM5pCW1bMf— John Fugelsang (@JohnFugelsang) February 2, 2024
Pulling and praying for the family of Joe Madison. He loved us so, and was dedicated to our freedom and liberation everyday he cracked the mic. His voice will be sorely missed. #JoeMadison #Freedom #KBLATalk1580 pic.twitter.com/Ac68xPeNQY
— Tavis Smiley – on ???? @therealtavissmiley (@tavissmiley) February 1, 2024
