A Documentary Film by Kendall Productions
Producers - Beverly Lindsay-Johnson and Gigi Hinton
Radio has had its pioneers, the men and women who etched new meaning into a universal medium dawned over 100 years ago and endure to this day. But few have spearheaded the kinds of changes that the legendary Hal Jackson has. In Jim Crow America, this visionary broadcaster stood tall in the face of discrimination and rejection and reshaped radio in his image paving the way for a new sound, a new audience and broader appeal
Hal Jackson: The House that Jack Built is an hour long documentary in progress which chronicles the amazing life and success of broadcaster, journalist, entrepreneur and civil rights activist Hal Jackson. His career spans over 65 years. A man of focus and grit, he shed the shackles of racism and poverty, and built a career and reputation on his hard work and on his innovative vision. Jackson helped to launch the careers of many entertainers including Alicia Keys, Michael Jackson, Aretha Franklin, Jackie Wilson, The Temptations, Smokey Robinson & The Miracle and many many others. He is one of the most respected legends in the history of black radio and television.
"Long before the success of Motown, you were my friend. Always consistent and always positive and adventurous."
Berry Gordy, Founder, Motown Records
Hal Jackson
November 3, 1914 - May 23, 2012
It was about 5 o’clock in the afternoon. He called his whole staff in, and he said to them, “I brought you all in here because, can you imagine this nigger is talking about going on this radio station.” He just lay back and laughed. “No nigger will ever go on this radio station [WINX-AM]
– Hal Jackson from his autobiography “The House That Jack Built”
In November 1939, Hal signed on WINX---the radio station that promised him “No nigger will ever go on this radio station.". Hal’s persistence led him to succeed! His first show at WINX was The Bronze Review and the first show featured Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune of the National Council on Negro Women. He went on to broadcast his music and interview shows entitled "The House That Jack Built" on WINX, WUST (the building now houses the 9:30 Club at 9th & V Street, NW), WOOK (all in DC) and WANN (in Annapolis) ---- on each station --every single day.
The documentary Hal Jackson: The House That Jack Built celebrates the accomplishments of a broadcast legend. Hal Jackson opened many doors for singers, actors, athletes, and young women to empower themselves in becoming the best in their careers.
The story of Hal Jackson will be told in the words of
Fmr. New York Mayor David Dinkens Tim Lacy
Reverend Al Sharpton Harold Winley (The Clovers)
Melba Moore Diz Russell (The Orioles)
Nick Ashford and Valerie Simpson Jacquie Gales Webb
Chuck Jackson and more
Jane Jackson
Jewel Jackson
Bruce "Cousin Brucie" Morrow
Ken Web
Community support is need to complete this documentary in progress. Completion funds will insure that the legacy of this important pioneer in broadcasting, entertainment, civil rights, sports and youth empowerment will continue through Hal Jackson: The House That Jack Built.
- Beverly Lindsay-Johnson, Producer/Director
Click onto the "Donation" button to send through PayPal or mail your donation to Kendall Productions, P.O. Box 70006, Washington, DC 20024
