5 minute read
Kelly Wright
Q. Thanks for interviewing with us today. Tell everyone who you are and what you do.
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A. I’m Kelly Wright. I am from the Washington, D.C. area. I’m a husband, father grandfather, brother, journalist, recording artist, and ordained licensed minister. Before, doing this interview I was the Co-Anchor/ Managing Editor of The World Tonight, a daily news program that airs Monday-Friday 5pm-7pm EST on BNC (Black News Channel). Our show is based in Washington, D.C. I am happy to announce that I will be continuing my journey as a recording artist, with my new song called "This little light" that I just released. Prior to my current position, I was the host of “Taking Care Of Business,” a national program that aired weekly on TBN (Trinity Broadcast Network). Also, I have worked as an Anchor/ Reporter for FOX News Channel in Washington, D.C., and New York City. Plus, I have worked as a reporter for the 700 Club on CBN.
Q. Tell us a little about your journey and how you got to where you are today?
A. I was born in Hagerstown, Maryland. My mother, a single parent, taught me to believe in God. She always encouraged me to pursue a career in journalism. Following her advice prepared me for numerous opportunities such as having my own weekly radio music show at the age of 16.
When I attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, I continued working as a DJ for the first Black R&B radio station in the city, KKUL.
I later joined the U.S. Army, where I continued to work in radio as a news anchor and host of my own musical show for the Army in Savannah, Ga. Also, I anchored a daily five-minute television news update that provided military news in the area. The Army prepared me for the opportunity to develop a career in journalism. The rest, as they say, is history.
Q. Let’s talk about “The Kelly Wright Show” and the motivation behind the show?
A. I was motivated to create the show in order to provide content that focused on people who are engaging, entertaining, and inspiring. The program goes beyond the headlines with celebrity interviews, news makers, politicians, musical performances, and more. The Kelly Wright Show is currently on hiatus as I currently Co-Anchor “The World Tonight.”
Q. How has your experience been working with “BNC”?
A. I currently work with (BNC) Black News Channel. It’s been an important and rewarding chapter of my life. BNC provided me with the opportunity to launch The Kelly Wright Show and The World Tonight during critical times in American history, covering major news stories impacting the Black Community; the Covid pandemic, George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, the fight for voting rights, police reform, and more.
Q. What interview has been the most interesting or memorable one?
A. I have been blessed to interview so many wonderful people in the world but what comes to mind are a few compelling and inspiring interviews such as; Bernice King, the youngest child of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I interviewed her during the 50th anniversary of the March in Washington. We conducted the interview in The Willard Hotel in Washington in the very room where Dr. King has put the finishing touches on his “I Have A Dream Speech.” She reflected on her father’s dream, his love for humanity, his faith in God, and his quest to help all of us learn that we
are interconnected and interrelated in this world and must establish a beloved community.
Some other inspiring moments happened when I interviewed some of the children and grandchildren of Nelson Mandela. Also, my numerous interviews with TD Jakes, Joel Osteen, and Denzel Washington.
Q. How do you define your purpose in life?
A. My purpose in life is to spread love, freedom, and peace. I seek to love God with all of my heart, mind, and strength. Also, I seek to love people as I love myself, and to help people find common ground for the common good of humanity.
Q. What are some of your goals for 2022?
A. Every day is a gift. My goal is to take one day at a time.
Q. Can you give us more details on the article you did with “Chicken Soup for the Soul”?
A. My story is about my mother’s love and courage. The article focuses on how she overcame incredible odds to give birth to me.
Q. Are you working on any new projects or events?
A. I’m focusing on my musical project, Free. The album was dormant during most of the Covid pandemic. However, I am now relaunching the music which is a collection of songs that I am really honored to have recorded. The album, Free, was produced by Tre’ Corley. It features 10 new songs of love, peace and unity. The project is available on all digital and streaming platforms. The album is electric with influences of gospel, r&b, jazz, country and pop.
Songs such as ‘The Love Train’, ‘This Little Light of Mine’ and ‘Free Indeed’ bring a smile with their upbeat grooves while selections such as ‘My America,’ ‘Take a Look Around,’ and ‘Savior’ are thought-provoking and personal. From beginning to end, Free promotes unity and peace, celebrating that we are all brothers and sisters in Christ.
Q. Tell us about your new song and why you decided to become an artist?
A. I have been a musical artist throughout my career in journalism. Music has always been a part of my life. My latest song is “This Little Light.
Q. Where can the readers follow you?
A. Instagram and Facebook/ kellywrightnews twitter@kellywrightnews