When he was just 15 years old, Randy O’Jay Brooks, who grew up in the Pruitt-Igoe housing projects in St. Louis, knew that he wanted to work in the radio business. He started hanging around KATZ in St. Louis doing whatever he could to be useful and get noticed. It worked. Doug Eason, one of the bosses at KATZ at the time, hired Brooks to assist him and everyone else at the station. Thus began what would turn out to be a nearly 45-year career in radio for Brooks, who became a St. Louis staple.
Eddie O’Jay, an overnight personality for KATZ when Brooks started, would let him sleep there when he was between homes.  Brooks paid tribute to O’Jay with his radio persona Randy O’Jay.  Ironically, in St Louis Brooks would become more famous than Eddie because of the bond he built with Dr. Jockenstein, a regional and legendary black radio icon for whom, early on, he carried crates of records.
From his days at KATZ to Majic 108 and most recently Mix 99.5 FM, Brooks became a foundation in the black radio community – a reliable one-man support system. Brooks was known for his ability to not only lighten a mood but also to connect with his audience and with his colleagues.  He was a loyal and dependable friend and didn’t hesitate to help someone in need.
Randy O’Jay Brooks died on April 22, 2020. He was 61. Legends are defined by their work and how it impacts the culture. We remember Randy O’Jay Brooks so others don’t forget.
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