Al Benson

Arthur Bernard Leaner (June 30, 1908 – September 6, 1978), who was known professionally as Al Benson, was an American radio DJ, music promoter and record label owner in Chicago between the 1940s and 1960s. He was particularly significant for his promotion of rhythm and blues music and black involvement in the recording industry in Chicago. "He was the first black radio personality to have a six figure salary...[and] was referred to as the Godfather of Black Radio." He was also an ordained minister, and became an important figure in the civil rights movement in Chicago. In 2017 he was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame.

Al Benson

Arthur Bernard Leaner (June 30, 1908 – September 6, 1978), who was known professionally as Al Benson, was an American radio DJ, music promoter and record label owner in Chicago between the 1940s and 1960s. He was particularly significant for his promotion of rhythm and blues music and black involvement in the recording industry in Chicago. "He was the first black radio personality to have a six figure salary...[and] was referred to as the Godfather of Black Radio." He was also an ordained minister, and became an important figure in the civil rights movement in Chicago. In 2017 he was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame.