Darlene “McCoy” Jackson: A Trailblazer in Urban Inspirational Radio and Gospel Music
Darlene “McCoy” Jackson, born Darlene Jenise Johnson, is an extraordinary force in the world of urban inspirational and gospel music, as well as a pioneering radio personality, author, speaker, and award-winning Christian R&B recording artist. In 2005, she burst onto the music scene with her debut single “Fallen in Love,” released by EMI Gospel. The song became an instant hit, appearing on the platinum-selling soundtrack of Tyler Perry’s “Diary of a Mad Black Woman.”
Following her successful single, Darlene released an extended play (EP) version of “Fallen in Love” on April 24, 2007. This EP set the stage for the release of her first full-length album, Darlene McCoy, in May of 2007. The album was executive produced by the renowned super producer Dallas Austin, earning a Top 15 position on the Urban AC charts. It also reached No. 22 on the Gospel Album chart. This breakthrough success garnered her a nomination at the 39th GMA Dove Awards for Urban Album of the Year, while her song “Simply Because” received a nomination for Urban Recorded Song of the Year. Critic Tony Cummings, from Cross Rhythms, rated the album nine out of ten, stating, “All in all, outstanding urban gospel.”
In 2011, Darlene released the powerful single “I Shall Live and Not Die,” which climbed to No. 2 on the Billboard chart for Hot Gospel Songs. As a radio personality, she made history as the first African American female host of a nationally syndicated nighttime radio show, The Nightly Spirit, on the Stellar Award-winning Urban One stations. Between Her Nighttime Syndication on Weeknights and her Chart topping weekend Countdown “The Top 15 Inspirational Hits in America, Her voice reaches more than 6 million homes across the country . Her charismatic presence and engaging style have kept her consistently at the top of her markets.
In 2022, Darlene “McCoy” Jackson was inducted into the National Black Radio Hall of Fame, marking another milestone in her illustrious career. Darlene is not only a radio and music sensation; she is also a certified meditation practitioner and the founder and creator of RËALM Meditation Sessions, a faith-based meditation class instructing her students in this spiritual discipline to hear from God through breathwork and stillness in the tone of prayer and worship.. This innovative approach to meditation reflects Darlene’s commitment to holistic wellness and spiritual growth.
In addition to her many accomplishments, Darlene has been nominated for Radio Announcer of the Year at the 2023 Stellar Awards and is currently nominated for Syndicated Radio Show of the Year for the 2024 Stellar Awards. Her remarkable career, coupled with her passion for empowering others, continues to inspire listeners across the world.
Stay tuned to see what’s next for this powerhouse of talent, and join her in her journey of faith, music, and inspiration. Follow Darlene “McCoy” Jackson on social media on Instagram @darlenemccoy, X @darlenemccoy and on Facebook Iam Darlene or visit her website www.iamdarlene.com to stay updated on her latest projects, meditation sessions, and upcoming events.
