10 Questions
10 Questions Revisit with Rickey Smiley
Name: Rickey Smiley
Title: National Syndicated Radio Host
Your social Media Links: Facebook
Company: Urban One/ Reach Media
Born: Birmingham, AL
1. Where did the path start for you towards becoming a comedian?
It started in grade school and middle school. I was the class clown and would make everyone laugh.
2. How did you get into radio?
I started working as a contributor at WBHJ in Birmingham, which led to an opportunity to co-host with the Nationally Syndicated Doug Banks Morning Show with Dee Dee Maguire. When Steve Harvey left Dallas and moved to Los Angeles, I was approached about taking over the morning show in Dallas, which led to the creation of the Rickey Smiley Morning Show.
3. Is there anything that inspires you?
Rocky movies, especially Rocky II with Mr. T!
4. How do you see your future evolving?
Viagra, a cane, a walker, a wheelchair, and a casket.
5. Who did you grow up listening to?
Shelly Stewart, on WATV in Birmingham, Tall Paul on WJLD in Birmingham and Mark and Brian on Kicks 106 in Birmingham.
6. And you’re most proud of?
I am proud of the opportunity that I have to be a servant for and to others. It’s a blessing to be in a position “daily” to give back to the community, promote HBCU’s, and inform people on essential issues like Health, COVID 19, Voting Rights, and more…while we keep them laughing.
7. Would you share the names of some of your influencers and mentors?
There have been so many influences in my career; I honestly can’t name them all. Some would be my Uncle Bruce, Steve Harvey, my Grandad Ernest Smiley, Alfred Liggins and Ms. H (Cathy Hughes), Principal Rosa B. Hanks, and all my elementary school teachers, except Reginald Holyfield, worst teacher I’ve ever had. All of my high school teachers were also significant influences.
8. Is there a memorable moment that’s hard to forget?
I was doing a stand-up comedy show, and there was a lady that laughed so hard she passed away. The mortician had to force her lips closed because she died laughing, and she still had a slight smile on her face.
9. Fill in the blank: I can’t make it through the day without _______?
Prayer and giving God praise.
10. And the best advice you’ve ever been given?
A close friend/mentor convinced me to take a leap of faith and move to Dallas (KBFB) to host my radio show –which was the start of the Rickey Smiley Morning Show.