News Summary
Hattie ‘Chatty Hatty’ Leeper, a pioneering DJ, has shaped the radio landscape in Charlotte. Her journey began as North Carolina’s first black female disc jockey at just 14 years old. Beyond broadcasting, she made significant contributions to her community and the music industry. Leeper’s legacy continues as she teaches and inspires future generations.
Trailblazer Hattie “Chatty Hatty” Leeper: A Celebrated DJ and Radio Icon in Charlotte
Charlotte, a city rich in culture and history, has been home to many incredible individuals, but few are as pioneering as Hattie “Chatty Hatty” Leeper. Known for her dynamic presence on the airwaves, Leeper is recognized as one of the Southeast’s first black female disc jockeys. Her journey from Edgemoor, South Carolina, to becoming a household name in Charlotte is nothing short of inspiring.
From Humble Beginnings to Radio Stardom
Born in 1930, Leeper moved to Charlotte with her family at a young age. It was during her teenage years that she began her radio career at just 14 years old. While attending Second Ward High School, she worked part-time at WGIV, a local radio station that was a game-changer for the black community in Charlotte as it was the first of its kind specifically tailored to a black audience.
By 1951, Leeper made history by becoming the first black female DJ in North Carolina, and her spirited on-air persona “Chatty Hatty” quickly resonated with listeners. She became a musical and cultural beacon, turning her radio show into a platform for not only music but also news and community issues. As her popularity grew, so did her roles on air, allowing her to showcase the richness of the black community and provide a voice for those often unheard.
Community Champion and Music Mogul
Leeper was not just a DJ; she was a vital force in the community. She supported local organizations like the YMCA and the Boys and Girls Club by inviting their guests onto her show, giving them a platform to share their mission and important community resources. This participatory approach endeared her even more to her listeners, and she became known for her genuine care for community welfare.
Beyond her radio career, Leeper ventured into music production, collaborating with iconic artists such as Aretha Franklin and Patti Labelle. Her entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly when she established her own record label, AwarE. Through this initiative, she was able to produce music and craft promotional materials that helped emerging acts find their footing in the music industry.
A Journey in Education and Recognition
In 1973, Leeper decided to shift her focus from broadcasting to education. She took her passion for communication to the classroom, teaching at various institutions, including Johnson C. Smith University and Gaston College. For 11 years, she served as Dean of the Communication Department at Gaston College before retiring in 1998.
Leeper’s hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed. In 2022, she was honored by being inducted into the *National Black Radio Hall of Fame*, a testament to her invaluable contributions to the world of radio. She is also a proud member of the *North Carolina Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame*. To share her extraordinary journey, she self-published her autobiography, *”Chatty Hatty: The Legend,”* which recounts her experiences in the radio and music industry.
Continuing Legacy and Community Involvement
The contributions made by Leeper extend far beyond her impressive career, as she remains closely connected to her community. From speaking engagements at local schools to participating in community events, she continues to inspire young minds and future generations. Her achievements were particularly celebrated during *Black History Month*, highlighting her role as a trailblazer in radio and music.
Leeper reflects on her career with gratitude, acknowledging the doors she has opened for future women of color in broadcasting. Her story is not only one of personal success but also a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have on their community and the industry at large.
As Charlotte honors the legacies of its trailblazers, Hattie “Chatty Hatty” Leeper stands tall among them, a true icon whose voice and actions have left an indelible mark on American radio and culture.
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Additional Resources
- WSOC TV
- Wikipedia: Hattie Leeper
- Charlotte Observer
- Google Search: Hattie Leeper
- WCNC
- Encyclopedia Britannica: African American Radio
- The Charlotte Post
- Google News: Hattie Leeper
