📰 Jay Price "The Morning Mayor" Honoring the Life and Legacy of A Founding Voice of Lansing's Black Media

Courtesy Photo — Jay Price behind the mic at WLTH Radio in Gary, Indiana, spinning records and shaping the sound of soul in the early days of his broadcast career.

Before the digital age. Before streaming. Before social media platforms replaced street corners and print presses, there was Jay Price.

Born Larry Carter and known professionally as Jay Price, this visionary made it his life’s mission to amplify the voices of Black Lansing—first through radio, and later, through the pages of The Chronicle Newspaper. His influence touched countless households, hearts, and histories.

🎧 Radio Trailblazer & Cultural Architect

Jay Price was instrumental in launching Lansing’s first urban contemporary radio station, WXLA 1170 AM, in 1984. He didn’t just talk into the mic—he shaped what the mic meant. Under his on-air moniker “The Morning Mayor,” Jay brought humor, local flavor, and authentic representation to the airwaves. The station later became WXLA 1180 AM, expanding its reach.

Not only was he a trusted voice, but also a sharp strategist. Jay worked as Sales Manager at WXLA and later at its FM sister station, WQHH 96.5, helping launch its format and grow its advertising base. He was as respected behind the scenes as he was in front of the mic.

🗳️ The Chronicle is Born

In May 1986, Jay and his wife, Carolyn Carter, founded a newspaper originally called The Capital Chronicle, later renamed The Chronicle News. With determination, a typewriter, and family support, they launched what would become Lansing’s trusted voice for the Black community.

🎙️ Mentor to the Mic Masters

Jay’s presence in the music and broadcasting world helped shape a generation of DJ talent, including:

• DJ Crazy Caz, whom he worked with early in his career

• Timothy “TJ the DJ” Jackson, whom Jay mentored and who helped name Caz

• Rob Roy “The Lover Boy” Nelson, whom Jay encouraged to go on-air

• Dexter Chandler (Dexter C.), a respected radio collaborator

🏛️ National Recognition

In February 2023, U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin honored Jay Price before Congress for his decades of contributions to journalism, radio, and advocacy for Black Lansing. She called him “a community lifeline.”

💖 The Legacy Lives On

Though Jay and Carolyn have passed on, their work endures. Today, The Chronicle News continues under their daughter Yanice Jackson and remains a vital resource across Mid-Michigan. Rest in power, Jay. Thank you for helping us be seen, heard, and understood.