Tavis Smiley and KBLA Talk Radio: A Conversation with Dr. Tara Merchant

In an insightful interview with Dr. Tara Merchant, a respected journalist, Tavis Smiley, the renowned broadcaster and owner of KBLA Talk 1580, shared the compelling story of how he launched his groundbreaking radio station. Central to his vision was the influence of his close friend, the legendary musician Prince, who imparted a vital lesson: content and distribution are key. Smiley credits this wisdom as the foundation for KBLA—a station focused on creating meaningful engagement rather than fueling outrage.

"We are engagement radio, not outrage radio," Smiley emphasized during his conversation with Dr. Merchant. KBLA Talk 1580 seeks to challenge its listeners by encouraging them to rethink their assumptions and broaden their perspectives. Though unapologetically progressive, the station is not confined to rigid ideology. Instead, it fosters open, thoughtful dialogue rooted in shared experiences. Smiley describes KBLA’s mission as prioritizing good ideas and diversity over division, offering a platform for authentic, honest conversations.

Smiley explained that KBLA was deliberately created to serve African Americans and other listeners of color—communities that are on track to become the majority in America. "What can a Blues nation learn from a Blues people?" Smiley asked, underscoring the deepening political, social, and cultural divides across the country. He believes that Black Americans have long served as the moral compass of the nation, learning to love America "in spite of," not because of its shortcomings. As the country grapples with racial reckoning and polarization, Smiley argues that the voices of Black Americans, who have never given up on the democratic experiment, must be heard now more than ever.

A core element of KBLA is its commitment to providing a "safe space" for expression. Smiley shared with Dr. Merchant how the station allows listeners to express their fears, frustrations, hopes, and dreams without fear of criticism or dismissal. "Our hosts look like you, live near you, and value what you value," Smiley noted, highlighting the importance of representation and shared community. He emphasized that KBLA’s goal is to create a space where listeners feel
seen and heard.

What sets KBLA Talk 1580 apart from other talk radio stations is its emphasis on direct engagement. Smiley proudly explained that KBLA strives to take more listener phone calls than any other talk station in Southern California. "We believe in dialogue, not monologue," Smiley told Dr. Merchant. He described the sense of community that grows when listeners hear others express emotions and concerns that resonate with their own—a process Smiley calls "building community."
For those who want to stay connected while on the go, KBLA’s free app makes the station easily accessible anytime, anywhere, allowing listeners to engage with its powerful content wherever they are.

At a time of growing political division and social unrest, KBLA Talk 1580 stands as a beacon for real, restorative conversations. Smiley’s vision has transformed the station into more than just a broadcast—it’s a public square where diverse voices come together to be heard, respected, and connected.
Follow KBLA Radio on Instagram at @kbla1580 and visit their website at kbla1580.com.