Knoxville Radio: FCC Judge Rules WJBE Owner Can Keep License

An FCC judge rejected an effort by the agency to strip the license of "Jammin" 99.7 FM/1040 WJBE, ending a lengthy wait to learn the fate of Knoxville's only Black-owned radio station.

The FCC’s enforcement bureau initiated a license revocation hearing against the station in March 2022 alleging that its owner, Joe Armstrong, a former state representative, had breached ownership regulations because of his 2016 conviction for filing a false income tax return. Additionally, FCC enforcers said he failed to disclose the conviction in two separate license renewal applications.

The station, owned in the 1960s and '70s by James Brown, the "Godfather of Soul," has been a cultural touchpoint for Black radio listeners in East Tennessee for generations.

After the ruling Thursday, Armstong told Knox News that his beloved community helped him get through the grueling process.

Joe Armstrong

"I am amazed at how much love and support I received from the people right here in Knoxville," he said. "All the churches, clergy, elected officials, and our everyday listeners from age 8 to 80 made this all happen. I owe thanks to my family and all who volunteered their time at the station, and to my employees at the station who showed up not even knowing if they will have a job or not."

Armstrong said he was grateful the FCC judge ruled in his favor.

In 2012, Armstrong took ownership and breathed new life into the radio station. Today, WJBE airs a diverse range of content, including popular music, nationally syndicated talk shows, community news and church services.

Armstrong fully served his sentence that included three years of probation, six months of house arrest and 300 hours of community service. He also was fined $40,000 and directed to make restitution payments totaling approximately $100,000. Following his conviction, he retired from his position in the state House of Representatives.

Still, the FCC raised concerns about his ability to adhere to its regulations.