N’DIGO: How has your business been affected by COVID?
Spann-Cooper: Our business has actually grown in COVID. People have been enthralled in information regarding this pandemic and as a local content provider, many companies have partnered with us to reach Black and Brown communities who have been disproportionately impacted.
How has radio changed in the age of “new media?”
New media is a powerful accompaniment to our industry. As you know radio is instantaneous, and so is digital. We are living in a fast-paced, ever-evolving 24-hour news cycle, and radio, remains relevant because of its natural ability to be present, consistent, and reliable.
You are adding to a new platform to your portfolio. How did VON- TV come about?
It sounds cliche, but opportunity met preparation. I was testifying at the FCC in Washington DC regarding the need for more inclusion in media ownership. One of the executives from the OTT Streaming Service was in the audience. They expressed an interest in diversifying their platform and thought the culture of our company and that of our flagship station WVON would make for a perfect partnership.
What type of programming will VON-TV feature?
VON-TV will have 10 categories of content ranging from independent films and documentaries to visual podcasts. There will be hours of dynamic programs by film and tastemakers and other influencers who have a story to tell. It will also include live programming and entertainment.
When does VON launch?
At the end of September. We’re shooting for September 28th.
Will VON-TV be the equivalent of WVON Radio?
It is not our goal to cannibalize WVON’s existing audience, but rather to tap into Black America all over the country in a unique way that mirrors what has made WVON an iconic radio brand in Chicago.
How will a viewer get VON-TV?
Roku, Amazon Fire, & Apple TV+. You will also be able to enjoy the channel on your PC, Tablet and mobile phone.
You enter the TV market at a time when TV is changing from popular network to streaming, what will VON look like?
VON-TV will rival all other top-notch streaming platforms. Our new platform is less like TV and more like Netflix. Our goal is to deliver excellence and that is what we want our viewers to see when they look at VON-tv
Is VON, WVON on TV or is it different? If so how?
It will be very different. WVON represents traditional radio and VON-tv is digital streaming. Some of the programs will be the same, but most are different and more diverse. VON-tv is WVON evolved. It’s what any great institutional brand must do if they are to remain relevant and have a future. We are now poised to meet the challenge.
