Veteran broadcaster Barry Gordon (Barry G) of Mello FM in Montego Bay was recently presented with a United States Congressional Proclamation from Congresswoman, Yvette D. Clarke of the Ninth Congressional District in New York. Eugene Kelly, vice president, Global Diversity & Inclusion, Colgate Palmolive Company made the presentation to Gordon at Groovin In The Park festival, held at Roy Wilkins Park in Queens, NY on Sunday, June 30.
“I always contend that encouragement sweetens labour so to receive this award certainly sweetens my work in broadcasting and reggae. I am elated to know I’ve made my mark in the industry” Gordon said soon after the presentation.
It was in 1975 that Barry G — a recent graduate of Kingston College — landed his first job on radio at the now defunct JBC (Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation). He stayed there until 1987 before joining RJR. JBC lured Gordon back in 1989 where he stayed until 2001. He has since worked at Power 106 FM, Hot 102 and Klas FM. Today he is the current ruler of afternoon radio at Mello FM in Montego Bay.
“I always innovate and never copy anyone’s style. In an unselfish way I deliberately go out of my way to inform and educate,” he once said about the secret to his longevity on radio.
With more than 44 years of experience on radio and being involved with the entertainment industry, Gordon shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon. On Oct. 18 – 21, the St. Mary born broadcaster is planning a ‘Barry G & Friends Family Reunion’ slated for Negril’s Hotspot, Island Lux Beach Park in Westmoreland. The four-day event will celebrate Jamaica’s best music, food and culture and will feature picnics, all-day entertainment and church on the beach with a few guests performers expected to pass thru. An invitation has been extended to Barry’s sparring partner David Rodigan to attend the festivities.
“As the #1 jock in Jamaica, I’m thrilled that Rodigan embraces reggae the way he does” he stated.
When asked about what’s next on his bucket list before he hangs up his broadcasting gloves, Gordon said, “the drive to deliver a level of radio from my generation of broadcasters to inspire the young ones who are coming in radio these days. My message is ‘radio is bigger than all of us!’”
