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Wayne K. Brown (pictured), one of the most influential African-Americans in the radio business, lost his battle with liver cancer this past weekend.

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With more than three decades of experience across broadcasting and marketing, Brown, 55, was considered a true industry pioneer.

“Wayne was a wonderful human being,” said Ms. Catherine L. Hughes, Chairperson & Founder of Radio One, Inc., “he made you feel like you were the most important person in the world when you were with him.”

Brown who was the VP/GM of Radio One’s Atlanta market for eight years, was most recently the general manager of Atlanta’s Streetz 94.5 FM.

Brown also served as senior partner and associate publisher of Who’s Who publishing company. Prior to Radio One he spent 13 years at CBS Headquarters in New York City working for network TV & radio.

A recipient of a number of awards, Brown has a scholarship in his name at his alma mater,  Syracuse University’s Newhouse School of Communications, for minority students.

“They were particularly proud of his accomplishments,” said Ms. Hughes referring to the pride held by the Syracuse University leadership towards Mr. Brown.

A native of Washington, D.C., Brown was a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and 100 Black Men of America.

“We will truly miss his laughter, his smiles, and his joyful knowledge of the business,” said his longtime friend Tony Washington, VP of Corporate Sales, Radio One.

Brown leaves behind his wife Nyesa and two sons.

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