DiscoverMixed and MasteredDyana Williams on Breaking Barriers, Building Institutions & Owning Our Narrative
Dyana Williams on Breaking Barriers, Building Institutions & Owning Our Narrative

Dyana Williams on Breaking Barriers, Building Institutions & Owning Our Narrative

Update: 2025-11-26
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In this powerhouse episode of Mixed and Mastered, Jeffrey sits down with the incomparable Dyana Williams — radio icon, cultural architect, co-founder of Black Music Month, longtime Philly International insider, and the heartbeat behind some of the most important stories in Black American music.
From her Harlem and Bronx roots to her early days as “Ebony Moonbeams,” Dyana walks us through a five-decade career that includes:

  • Breaking into radio at CCNY and WHUR
  • Learning under the legendary Frankie Crocker at WBLS
  • Working across TV at BET, VH1, and PM Magazine
  • A front-row seat to Philadelphia International Records during its golden era
  • Founding the National Museum of African American Music in Nashville
  • Her lifelong mission to preserve, protect, and elevate Black music and its creators
  • And of course… the origin story of Black Music Month, from the White House lawn with Jimmy Carter to official national recognition

Dyana’s stories reach from the Apollo to the Oval Office, from D’Angelo to Teddy Pendergrass, and from Harlem stoops to global stages. It’s a living masterclass in culture, community, and the power of music to move the world.
This is history told by someone who made it. 

Buckle up — This is Mixed and Mastered with Dyana Williams.

Support the show

Mixed and Mastered is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio, and hosted by music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to the discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @MixedandMasteredPod to join the conversation and check out all our episodes at www.wearemerrickstudios.com/mixed-and-mastered-pod

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Dyana Williams on Breaking Barriers, Building Institutions & Owning Our Narrative

Dyana Williams on Breaking Barriers, Building Institutions & Owning Our Narrative

Jeffrey Sledge, Dyana WIlliams