NewUrbanJazz™
The People’s Music.
NewUrbanJazz™ is a dynamic and evolving blend of Contemporary Jazz infused with Brazilian, Urban, Soulful, and global influences—while remaining deeply rooted in the original art form of jazz. It honors the legacy of the great innovators while embracing the rhythmic pulse and groove of today’s generation. This is not compartmentalized radio. It is jazz without borders—melodic, intelligent, rhythmic, and culturally connected.
Founded by pianist, producer, and broadcaster Bob Baldwin, *The NewUrbanJazz Lounge* is a weekly two-hour syndicated program that celebrates the full spectrum of jazz—from foundational legends to emerging global voices. With more than four decades of broadcasting experience, Baldwin has shaped the format through leadership roles in New York, Atlanta, Jacksonville, and Bermuda. His journey began in 1980 under the mentorship of legendary WBLS personality Frankie Crocker and media pioneer Percy Sutton of Inner City Broadcasting. After additional experience at WINS (1010 WINS), WVIP (Mt. Kisco), WCLK (Atlanta), KJAZ (Bermuda), and WJZZ (Atlanta), Baldwin refined a format that would ultimately become NewUrbanJazz™.
The official launch of NewUrbanJazz™ followed a major shift in the radio landscape, as numerous smooth jazz stations across the country flipped formats in the late 2000s. Where others retreated, NUJ advanced—building a loyal base through independent, college, and community stations in markets such as Huntsville, Montgomery, Birmingham, Nashville, and Greensboro. Today, NewUrbanJazz™ is heard on more than 40 stations nationwide, in addition to multiple digital platforms and the 24/7 NUJ livestream at [www.newurbanjazz.com](http://www.newurbanjazz.com).
NewUrbanJazz™ actively seeks the best new music from artists worldwide. While the format leans into groove-driven contemporary sounds, it maintains a profound respect for the pioneers who shaped the genre—icons such as Thelonious Monk, Duke Ellington, and Miles Davis. The philosophy is simple: innovation without forgetting origin.
As major radio conglomerates continue to narrow their playlists, NewUrbanJazz™ expands the creative lane—offering depth, diversity, and meaningful musical storytelling. The brand has helped influence a growing movement of indie stations adopting a funkier, more progressive blend of contemporary jazz. While others may attempt to replicate the vibe, there is only one NewUrbanJazz™—distinctive, authentic, and unapologetically original.
Stay tuned. The movement continues.
— Bob Baldwin, Founder
NewUrbanJazz™ — The People’s Music.