About Play Ode

Hear us
here.

Play Ode is the premier home for Black radio, podcasts and news, celebrating and amplifying Black culture.

Howard Robertson speaking into a studio microphone

An Ode to our culture

“Black heritage and history were always important parts of my life, especially growing up in the 50s and 60s in Memphis at the center of Black history, the Civil Rights movement, Black protests, Black music and Black culture…”

I don’t know and it really doesn’t matter if we’re the “first” or not. There’re still not enough of us as custodians of our own culture, telling our own truths, in our own way, on our own platforms.

I was blessed with the name “Ode.” First, it’s an acronym for Our digital entertainment and by definition, an ode is a poetic tribute or musical expression to something or someone. This Ode is a tribute to Black culture and music. We want you to hear us here and make Ode your central, go-to-place to be entertained, informed and engaged with excellent Black radio and programs.

Howard Robertson, Co-Founder & CEO

At its heart, Play Ode is about community, connection, and content.

It’s about preserving the legacy of Black radio while embracing the opportunities of digital and streaming technology to reach audiences wherever they are. Our vision is to provide an authentic audio experience that reflects the diversity of our lifestyles, interests, and passions, while fostering a sense of pride, belonging, and connection. We want Play Ode to be more than something you listen to. We want it to become part of your everyday life, connecting generations, celebrating our contributions, and serving as the soundtrack to your life.

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