BY: MDA Staff Writer | July 27, 2026
CLARKSDALE, Miss. — Veteran gospel broadcaster Johnny Kinard has earned one of Mississippi’s highest honors in gospel radio, being named 2026 Mississippi Gospel Radio Announcer of the Year during the 48th Annual Mississippi Gospel Music Awards, held on July 26, 2026, at the Jackson Convention Center Ballroom in Jackson.
Kinard, affectionately known on the air as “Flight 811,” is a longtime radio personality on KJIW 94.5 FM, where his voice has become a familiar source of inspiration, encouragement, and traditional gospel music for listeners throughout the Mississippi Delta and beyond. The station’s call letters stand for “King Jesus Is Worthy,” and KJIW has served the region with gospel programming for decades. The station broadcasts from Helena, Arkansas, serving the Clarksdale, Mississippi, area.
The Mississippi Gospel Radio Announcer of the Year award recognizes excellence in gospel broadcasting and honors individuals whose dedication has made a lasting impact on listeners and the gospel music community. This year’s Mississippi Gospel Music Awards were part of the 2026 Jackson Music Awards Weekend, a four-day celebration recognizing Mississippi’s rich musical heritage under the theme, “Our Music Born Here, Heard Everywhere.” The annual Gospel Music Awards featured performances, special recognitions, and awards celebrating excellence in gospel music and ministry across the state.
Kinard’s recognition reflects years of faithful service behind the microphone, where he has used gospel music to uplift, encourage, and inspire audiences across the Delta. His commitment to sharing messages of hope and faith has made him a respected figure among listeners, artists, pastors, and fellow broadcasters.
The commemorative award presented to Kinard identifies him as “Mississippi Gospel Radio Announcer of the Year – Johnny Kinard (‘Flight 811’) – KJIW 94.5 FM, Clarksdale, Mississippi,” honoring his outstanding contributions to gospel radio during the 48th annual ceremony.
For many in the Delta, Kinard’s voice represents more than entertainment—it represents ministry. Whether introducing classic gospel favorites, spotlighting local artists, or encouraging listeners through scripture and conversation, he has remained a consistent presence on the airwaves.
His selection as the 2026 Mississippi Gospel Radio Announcer of the Year not only celebrates an outstanding career in broadcasting but also recognizes the enduring influence of gospel radio in connecting communities and sharing messages of faith throughout Mississippi.
As congratulations continue to pour in from listeners, friends, and members of the gospel music community, Johnny Kinard’s latest honor stands as a testament to a lifetime dedicated to serving others through the power of gospel radio.
Photo and Info Credit: FB
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