With SiriusXM now reaching an impressive 33.26 million subscribers, the platform celebrates the extraordinary career of B.J. Stone, a pioneer in R&B radio and a key figure behind the success of its Heart & Soul channel.
Recognized for his decades-long contributions, B.J. Stone recently sat down with Dr. Tara Merchant of Upscale Magazine to share his journey and vision for the future of R&B.
B.J.’s impact on the radio industry is unmatched. From Host to Program Director, his career has spanned multiple roles and transitions, from traditional radio to the expansive reach of satellite broadcasting.
As Senior Director at SiriusXM, B.J. curates Heart & Soul with a balance of classic R&B hits and groundbreaking new talent, connecting millions to the genre’s rich storytelling tradition.
In his interview with Upscale Magazine, B.J. reflected on one of his most unforgettable career moments—his final conversation with the legendary Luther Vandross.
“One of my most memorable interviews was with Luther Vandross. He shared how much he wanted to win Song of the Year with ‘Dance with My Father,’ which he did in 2004. A week after our conversation, Luther suffered a stroke, making it his final interview,” B.J. recalled.
Beyond his radio expertise, B.J.’s passions extend to martial arts as a second-degree black belt and wine collection, boasting a 900-bottle wine cellar that includes selections from iconic artists like Bruno Mars and John Legend.
B.J. also discussed SiriusXM’s unique position in the music landscape: “Here at SiriusXM, we are more than just radio; we are entertainment. Our commercial-free channels offer album cuts, live performances, and music discovery that redefine the listening experience,” he said.
As R&B evolves with influences from Hip-Hop, Afrobeats, and Jazz, B.J. remains committed to blending the genre’s roots with its future.
“R&B’s emotional storytelling has always been its heart and soul. My goal is to honor that tradition while embracing what’s next,” he shared.
B.J. Stone and Babyface at SiriusXM headquarters.
Upscale Magazine’s feature on B.J. Stone highlights his unwavering dedication to R&B and his instrumental role in SiriusXM’s success.
B.J. Stone poses with Coco Jones.
Heart & Soul continues to be a cornerstone for R&B lovers worldwide, thanks to B.J.’s expertise and passion.