The Cool Gent: The Nine Lives of Radio Legend Herb Kent - Hardcover

Herb Kent is an urban radio pioneer and legendary DJ who first went on the air in 1944 and still broadcasts today. He was the first African American to be inducted into the Museum of Broadcasting Radio Hall of Fame. He teaches broadcasting at Chicago State University. David Smallwood is a journalist and the coauthor of Profiles of Great African Americans. He is a founder of, contributor to, and former editor of N'Digo, a member of the National Association of Black Journalists, and a former reporter and editor for the Chicago Sun-Times and Jet Magazine. Mayor Richard M. Daley has been the mayor of Chicago since 1989.

"Truly, a legendary radio personality. Like all of his adoring fans, I applaud Herb for his nearly 65 years of contributions to Chicago’s radio airwaves and for furthering his inspirational reach through this book."  —Richard M. Daley, mayor, Chicago

"Herb Kent is one of the great DJs of all time, and one of the great human beings of all time."  —Gene Chandler, "Duke of Earl"

"Herb Kent is more than a radio legend. He’s an American icon, and anyone who has ever heard him on-air knows why . . . Mr. Kent’s charm and wit have earned the respect of millions of devoted fans and listeners and have inspired a number of aspiring African-American broadcasters . . . as far as I'm concerned, the Cool Gent’s story is long overdue."  —Rod R. Blagojevich, governor, Illinois

"Herb’s distinctive voice has entertained and informed Chicagoans for more than 60 years . . . this book will give readers a tremendous opportunity to experience the life, both personal and professional, of Herb Kent, one of the greatest entertainers that ever lived. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!"  —Earl Jones, president, Clear Channel Radio Chicago

"Herb Kent paved the road of success that I'm on today."  —Tom Joyner, radio host, The Tom Joyner Morning Show

"This fine gentleman is loved by everyone, and was born to be 'the Greatest Jock' ever, and that's what he is."  —The Mighty Dells: Marvin Junior, Verne Allison, Chuck Barksdale, Michael McGill, and Johnnie Carter