I'm Just a DJ But...It Makes Sense to Me

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY JUL 11, 2005

Joyner, host of the Tom Joyner Morning Show, which is syndicated in more than 120 American markets, presents an entertaining memoir of his life in radio. He recalls growing up in the segregated South in Tuskegee, Ala., working his way through a Southern black college with odd jobs and then landing a gig behind a radio mike. Joyner's success on the airwaves didn't come overnight: he made several miscues, such as signing on with two radio stations in separate states, doing a show in Chicago in the mornings and then flying to Dallas in the afternoons, only to quit those jobs to take on a "black Casey Kasem" role in a short-lived national countdown show. Much of the book brims with his trademark witticisms regarding personal responsibility, the importance of a solid work ethic, success and "giving something back" to one's community. Although there is plenty of celebrity name-dropping (Lionel Richie, Al Sharpton, Luther Vandross), some pleasing moments come near the book's end, when Joyner lovingly describes his wife, trainer Donna Richardson; their two sons; and his extended family. Chatty and upbeat, Joyner's book should appeal to his national audience and may recruit some new listeners, as well.