Jack Harris: A Black History Trailblazer in Media, Business, and Beyond

Columbus, OH —Jack Harris isn’t just a name in broadcasting—he’s a force of nature. A media mogul, entrepreneur, and ownership expert, Harris has spent his life breaking barriers, building businesses, and proving that Black ownership is not just possible—it’s powerful. His journey from a small-town boy with big dreams to a national media powerhouse is the kind of story that inspires generations.

From Humble Beginnings to an Unstoppable Vision

Born in Chicago and raised in a small town in Missouri, Harris grew up with limited Black business role models. But that didn’t stop him from setting his sights on success.

"There were only 500 Black people in my town," he recalls. "I didn’t have many examples of Black ownership, but I knew one thing—I wanted to be Black and successful."

Determined to create his blueprint, he joined the Air Force and later pursued higher education at Lincoln University, Roosevelt University, Marquette University School of Law, and the Brown School of Engineering. But destiny had bigger plans for him—plans that would put him at the center of Black media ownership.

A Bold Leap Into Broadcasting

After a stint in law enforcement, Harris followed his passion for music, becoming a drummer in his band. But his hunger for something greater led him to broadcasting school in Chicago, eventually landing a radio opportunity in Minneapolis.

With just $60 in his pocket, three children to care for, and a dream too big to ignore, Harris moved to Minnesota, working nights at Honeywell Plant while learning radio by day. Then came the breakthrough—a DJ friend left for a job with the legendary Wolfman Jack, leaving an opening that Harris seized.

That moment changed everything.

Building an Empire: Black Ownership Takes Center Stage

Starting as a DJ was just the beginning. Harris quickly realized that true power in media meant one thing—ownership. Seeing a major void in Black-owned radio stations, he made his move.

He bought his first station in Omaha, Nebraska. Then, in 1984, he took things to another level, purchasing WCKX-FM in Columbus, Ohio, and transforming it from a country-western station into the city’s first Black-owned R&B powerhouse.

His influence skyrocketed as he took leadership roles at stations across Florida, Minnesota, Nebraska, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Ohio. But he wasn’t stopping there.

Harris launched El Communicator News and later founded The Minority Communicator News in 1988, a publication that has stood strong for over three decades. He also hosted People’s View, a cable TV show amplifying Black perspectives.

A Business Powerhouse Beyond Radio

Harris didn’t just own media—he built an empire. He successfully ran nightclubs (Point 3 and Papa Jack’s in Columbus), a music store, and even a limousine service. His approach to business was simple but unshakable:

"If you don’t control your money, it will control you. You can’t spend more than you make—it’s that simple."

His businesses weren’t just for profit—they were a family affair. "All of my children have worked in my businesses," he says proudly. He built wealth not just for himself but for generations to come.

A Living Legend in Black Media and Business

Jack Harris’ legacy is undeniable. Billboard named him Program Director of the Year. RCA Records crowned him Man of the Year. He’s been featured in Who’s Who in Black America and honored by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. as a Council of Excellence recipient.

Fluent in English and French, a devoted husband, and a media powerhouse, Harris has shown that Black ownership isn’t just a dream—it’s a movement.

For over 30 years, he has proven that when you control your narrative, you control your destiny. His legacy is one of power, perseverance, and pride.

A Tribute to a Mentor and Trailblazer: Jack Harris

As the Publisher of The Baton Rouge Weekly Press, I had the privilege of working under Jack Harris as the Production Manager and Graphic Designer at The Minority Communicator News. That experience shaped my career and gave me invaluable insight into Black media ownership. Under his leadership, I learned not just about the mechanics of running a publication, but about the responsibility of owning our stories and uplifting our communities.

Jack Harris wasn’t just a businessman—he was a trailblazer, a mentor, and a true advocate for Black excellence. He demonstrated that when we control our media, we control our narratives. His legacy of ownership, empowerment, and community upliftment is something that continues to inspire me every day.

Today, as I lead The Baton Rouge Weekly Press, I carry forward the lessons he instilled in me—lessons that are essential in the fight for Black representation and ownership in the media industry. Jack Harris’s impact will always be remembered, and his influence will continue to guide me as I work to honor his legacy in my journey.

Ivory D. Payne
Publisher, The Baton Rouge Weekly Press Newspaper