By Tribune Staff Reports
One of the most recognizable voices in Nashville radio has started a new chapter in his long-standing career by making a move to 790 AM The Gospel 104.5 FM.
Ernie Allen, whose voice and style has boomed across the airways in Nashville for more than 40 years, hosted his first “Straight Talk” show Aug. 18, 1-2 p.m. at the station. Allen is known throughout Nashville as the ‘Man with the Voice,’ has reinvented his popular talk show format, which welcomes diverse guests to discuss community affairs, politics and other issues impacting the city.
“I am honored to continue my service to the community on this station,” said Allen, who earned the Nashville Association of Black Journalists’ Trailblazer Award in 2023 for his pioneering work in radio.
Allen, a native of Detroit, Michigan, began his radio career in 1979. He served as news director and talk show host for WQQK-FM 92.1’s weekly community affairs program, long served as the PA announcer for Tennessee State University football and was “The Voice” of the renowned TSU Aristocrat of Bands for many years.
The move to 790 AM allows Allen to continue his live interviews with a variety of guests and news makers. Throughout his career, he has interviewed governors, mayors, college presidents, elected officials, pastors, candidates and community activists.
For his first show, Allen spoke with members of the Nashville Chapter of Les Gemmes, Incorporated, an organization focused oncharitable, educational, civic and cultural purposes. Vivian Wilhoite, Sylvia Smith Johnson and Phyllis Qualls joined the host to discuss their fundraiser, the ‘Last Summer Fling,’ which will take place Aug. 24, 2-7 p.m. at 635 Nocturne Drive in Nashville.
“This event is like a picnic and presented as one of the last big events before the end of summer and features nearly 25 vendors, including food and retail,” said Dr. Phyllis Qualls, president of the chapter. “It is yet another opportunity to raise funds for the youth in the program, who we refer to as ‘Jewels.’” Tickets purchased in advance are $25 by visiting the website at LesGemmesNashville.org.”
Other guests on “Straight Talk’s” kick off included Sherryl Huff and Timothy Hughes, officials with the Middle Tennessee Chapter of the National Action Network, who discussed the political landscape of Nashville-Davidson County and across the nation as well as the power of the vote.
