Awards and Recognition
Donnie Simpson’s career is unparalleled and has earned him many accolades. In addition to Simpson’s notable on-air work, he is dedicated to supporting several charities and nonprofit organizations. In 2005 when Hurricane Katrina devastated Louisiana, Simpson stayed on the air for 16 hours, raising over $220,000 for those impacted. He also has served as honorary chairman of the National Black Family Reunion and has assisted in fundraising efforts for AIDS research and the United Negro College Fund. Donnie and his wife have established The Donnie & Pam Simpson Scholarship Fund to help minority college hopefuls in need of assistance in chasing their dreams.
In January 2010, after 30 years as DC's morning coffee, Donnie left radio. But, on August 17, 2015, he returned to host the afternoon drive at MAJIC 102.3FM, a Radio One station. While adored by millions, perhaps Donnie’s biggest fan is President Barack Obama. On the presidential campaign trail in 2008, Mr. Obama stopped to record and send a congratulatory video message to Donnie, citing the media giant for his great tenure in radio.
Donnie Simpson’s consistent No. 1 ratings success and reputation as the consummate gentleman and professional, have earned him “Icon” status among his peers, and his millions of fans worldwide. Donnie has received many prestigious awards including Program Director of the Year at WKYS by Billboard's 1981 radio competition, black major market category and Billboard's 1998 Air Personality of the Year. In October 2004, he was inducted into the BET Walk of Fame, and later on October 4, 2015, Donnie was inducted into the national R&B Music Hall of Fame. He was the only non-musician to be inducted.
Of the R&B Music Hall of Fame award, Donnie says:
“The fact that I’m not a singer, musician, nor songwriter, and they still wanted me in their Hall of Fame, makes it one of the greatest honors I’ve ever received. Musicians are always the coolest people in the room and for one night they let me in their group. What an honor!”
September 19, 2017, was another special day as MAJIC’s own Donnie Simpson and Urban One CEO Alfred C. Liggins both received Ceremonial Resolution from the Council of the District of Columbia for their years of service! Donnie was celebrated for his 40 years of serving the District on radio while Liggins accepted his resolution on behalf of WMMJ Majic 102.3/92.7‘s 30th year anniversary.
On August 17, 2020, it was announced that Donnie Simpson would be inducted into The Radio Hall of Fame Class of 2020. Coincidentally, the day of the announcement also marked the five-year anniversary of Donnie's return to radio and television on WMMJ, MAJIC 102.3 FM and on TV One after a brief retirement.
"I’m honored and humbled to be going in with several people of color I admire," Donnie said upon learning of the announcement. "I also go in on the shoulders of so many talented people before me, who weren’t seen because they lived on the right hand side of the dial. Thanks to the RHOF for seeing us now."
Donnie, along with six other broadcasters, including Sway Calloway, Angie Martinez and The Breakfast Club, was honored Thursday, October 29, 2020 during a live radio broadcast induction ceremony from multiple locations and across multiple audio platforms, including iHeart Radio. Visit The Radio Hall of Fame website to listen to the full 2-hour ceremony.
- Watch Donnie's Acceptance Speech
- Watch Video of Celebrities Reacting to Donnie's Induction into the RHOF
- Listen to the full 2-hour Radio Hall of Fame Ceremony
On February 6, 2024 The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) announced Donnie as the 2024 NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame inductee for radio. Donnie, a legendary media trailblazer and award-winning program director, will be inducted at the NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame event at NAB Show, Monday, April 15, 2024, in Las Vegas, Nevada. The NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame recognizes radio and television personalities or programs that have earned a place in broadcasting history.
“Donnie Simpson’s life-long love of radio and music, incredible talent and commitment to his audience make him well-deserving of this honor,” said NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt. “We are excited to welcome Donnie into the NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame for radio during NAB Show in April and look forward to celebrating all that he has accomplished over his distinguished 55-year career.”
