Cover Story: Asia Chandler Warming Hearts and Airwaves From Nine To Now

Virginia Beach native Asia Chandler also known as “Your Radio Love” found her calling in broadcasting at a young age, inspired by local Virginia radio and the joy of creating her own “broadcasts” using a hairbrush as a mic. Her passion took root when, at age nine, she received a toy for Christmas from Radio Shack that allowed her to talk over AM stations—a spark that would eventually lead to a remarkable career.

Continuing to fuel her passion, Asia pursued Communications and Journalism, graduating with honors and dual degrees from Northeastern University in Boston. She gained her first on-air experience at a student-run station, where she honed her skills and deepened her love for the magic of radio. Despite early career setbacks, Asia’s big break arrived in 2001 when she won Radio One’s "Fresh New Voices" contest, standing out among over 4,000 auditionees. This victory launched her career at Radio One’s WBOT, Hot 97.7 in Boston, where she started as an entertainment reporter and evening host, soon rising to mid-day host.

Asia’s ascent in radio was nothing short of meteoric. Over the years, she held a range of roles at Radio One, from "Heat Wave" evening host to "Hot Spot" Entertainment Reporter, before securing a full-time on-air position with Citadel’s Hot 106 in Providence. Her ultimate dream came true in October 2007 when she began hosting mornings at WBCG on Big City 101.3. The accolades that followed—including four consecutive Best of Boston Awards and the Urban Music Award for Best Radio Personality—were a testament to her talent, hard work, and undeniable charisma.

As is common in the media industry, shifts in the landscape led Asia to re-evaluate her path. After several successful years, her station changed formats, prompting her to seek new opportunities. In 2011, she relocated to Washington, D.C., where she initially worked as a freelance entertainment reporter and eventually came back to where it all started. Returning to Radio One in 2015 felt like a homecoming, and within months, she was promoted to two shifts across different stations. Her life long zeal reached all new heights when she landed a role as the entertainment reporter on The Donnie Simpson Show, working alongside her biggest idol.

Today, as Asia celebrates her 24th year in radio, she exemplifies what it means to be a multifaceted talent. Not only is she an accomplished radio personality, but her background as a trained singer and musician underscores her deep connection to music. Asia plays multiple instruments and has even penned original songs, showcasing her artistic versatility.

Beyond the airwaves, Asia is deeply committed to community service and mentorship. She serves on the board of the American Cancer Society, advocating for cancer research and cures, and a senior board member of the Prevention Re-Entry Program, helping returning citizens re-integrate into society. For the past five years, Asia has hosted seasonal community events that offer resources, free services, and a spirit of celebration to the community, featuring live bands, vendors, and activities for kids.

Asia lives every day by her belief: put God first, and everything else will fall into place.

Grateful for the opportunities to work alongside industry legends like Russ Parr, Tom Joyner, Donnie Simpson, and THE Cathy Hughes (fun fact: Asia wrote her senior college thesis on Ms. Hughes and, through prayer, landed her first radio job with the company), Asia is passionate about passing the torch to the next generation of talent.

Her words of wisdom for aspiring radio personalities are simple yet profound: “In a world where people try so hard to be anything other than themselves, remember that to WIN, all you ever have to do is just be yourself… because no one can be you better than you.” In a world where authenticity is revered, her advice serves as a powerful guiding principle for those seeking to make their mark.

In addition to being an exceptionally dope radio talent, Asia is also a skilled entertainment reporter, veteran MC, party host, and seasoned Red Carpet Correspondent. She’s a familiar face at the NAACP Image Awards, Urban One Honors, The Soul Train Awards, and the American Black Film Festival, attending annually to cover the biggest moments in entertainment. As a local TV guest correspondent, Asia can often be seen on Fox 5 and WHUT-TV, further showcasing her versatility.

Even in her 24th year, Asia’s drive remains as strong as when she first started and she believes the best is yet to come. Her dreams include dominating both satellite and traditional radio platforms, hosting her own syndicated show, and landing a regular TV segment. Asia says she’s just getting started—so watch out world and stay tuned, because the best is yet to unfold!

In an industry where voices come and go, Asia Chandler's story shines with unwavering determination. With her vibrant personality, engaging voice, and genuine approach to her craft, Asia continues to inspire and uplift listeners across multiple platforms. Her journey reminds us that pursuing our passions with integrity and joy can turn dreams into reality.