By: Maya Perry
Morgan McKenzie also known as the #TheItGirl is an on air personality that can do “it” all. Morgan states that she chose to go by her given name because “…my mother takes pride in my name that she gave me. I wanted to honor that. I also believe it has a ring to it, and it can go with me beyond my radio career.”
Morgan started out producing PSA’s for WNAA, 90.1 at NCAT. Her sophomore year at NCAT, she would email BDAHT, of 102 JAMZ, persistently while in classes inquiring about internship opportunity. Bdaht eventually invited Morgan to be an intern for the Wild out Wake up Show with himself, Toshamakia, and Kyle Santillian in 2010-2011. During her internship, she produced topical content, edit audio, and assist with promotional events. Upon entering into grad school at NCAT, she interned for Chris Lea at 102 JAMZ on “Straight Talk” which is the community-based talk show. A lot of what she was learning in her English and African American Literature courses ended up being topics of discussion for the show. After interning on-air for about a year, Morgan was hired as an official part-time employee at 102 JAMZ in 2015. Since then, she has filled in and worked almost every show slot.
Morgan persistency has not only help with her growth in radio but she has redefined what “no” means to her. “New Opportunities (N-O). I can’t count how many times I have heard the word, “No,” in my radio career. Had I allowed that one word to deter me, I wouldn’t be in the position I’m in now! Keep going.”
When I asked Morgan what she believed her brand is initially she states, “…a multifaceted young lady who does it all! One can find me discussing hip hop and pop culture on air, to discussing social and cultural issues on “Straight Talk.” I am a professor at NCAT as well as a mentor to students. I am also a performer and dance coach. I host parties and panels. I co-produce a podcast, “Red Wine and Radio.” That’s just to name a few things in which I’m involved. You name it, I can do it.”
#TheItGirl describes that her purpose is to be inspire and unite people through her platform. She always believed that her voice had power because she speaks from the heart and a place of transparency. Morgan concludes our interview by saying, “The industry is tough to navigate, and sometimes it takes years for your big break. However, in the meantime, you’re working and producing for yourself so that when that big day comes, you are more than ready to accept the task! Build that resume now, sis!”