Black-owned Radio Station Launches Show to Chronicle Altadena Fire Recovery

KBLA Talk 1580 will launch a new weekly radio program Saturday focused on tracking the recovery efforts of Black Altadena following the devastating Eaton Canyon Fire.

“Conversation Live: Altadena Rising,” hosted by James Farr, debuts Saturday, March 8 at 10 a.m., with rebroadcasts Sundays at noon. The one-hour program aims to become a valuable source for documenting Altadena’s recovery, amplifying survivor voices and holding officials accountable.

“We will use this Black-owned media platform to ensure that California, the nation, and the world hear the stories of those impacted in Altadena,” said Tavis Smiley, founder of SmileyAudioMedia, Inc. and Chief Visionary Officer for KBLA Talk 1580. “People have short attention spans, and many will forget the fire and its aftermath in the coming weeks and months. We intend to keep the focus on the families in Altadena and amplify their voices.”

For Farr, the Eaton Fire is personal. Though he and his family escaped the flames, many friends and community members lost everything. The fire erased more than physical property—it tore through a deep-rooted community of Black homeowners who had spent generations building wealth and independence.

“Eaton was more than a fire. It was the destruction of a Black stronghold where 80% of residents were homeowners. These families weren’t just living here; they were building generational wealth. That’s why this show matters—because rebuilding Altadena isn’t just about homes, it’s about justice,” Farr said.

Farr, a regular contributor to KBLA’s morning show “First Things First” with Dominique DiPrima, co-produced the station’s three-hour remote broadcast from the fire zone in the disaster’s immediate aftermath.

Now as host of “Conversation Live: Altadena Rising,” he will continues that mission—tracking the rebuilding efforts, investigating the causes of the fire, and ensuring that Altadena’s recovery remains a national priority.

KBLA Talk 1580 is a heritage station and the original home of the iconic hip hop station KDAY. Broadcasting at 50,000 watts day and night, it serves nearly 12 million listeners. The station features an all-star lineup of hosts who speak candidly and passionately to the challenges people of color face daily trying to navigate life and realize their hopes and dreams. KBLA primarily serves an audience of progressives and people of color.

The station can also be found on social media platforms: Instagram (@KBLA1580), Twitter (@KBLA1580), Facebook (facebook.com/KBLA1580), and YouTube (youtube.com/KBLA1580).

A mobile app is also available for iPhone and Android.

For media inquiries or to book James Farr for interviews, contact Matt Klink at (310) 283-6267 or by email at matt@klinkcampaigns.com.