David Dickinson.
New Haven native and longtime music programmer and radio personality, David Arthur Dickinson, will be remembered this weekend at a memorial service on Saturday, Dec. 16, at 2 p.m. at Bethel AME Church, 255 Goffe Street, New Haven, CT.
Born on June 20, 1958, in New Haven, Dave was the second child of Amy and Obediah Dickinson. He was a graduate of Hillhouse High School and played the sax during his high school years. Dave was always infatuated with music.
After spending his freshman year at Emerson College in Boston, Mass., Dave returned to New Haven, becoming an on-air personality at WNHU-88.7 FM and gaining a bachelor’s degree in television production from the University of New Haven.
Dave’s first commercial job was with WNHC-AM 1340, where he hosted the popular “Whisper Softly” evening program of “soft R&B and slow jams.” Dave left New Haven for the iconic WHUR-FM 96.3 in Washington, D.C. as music director, but then left there to put his talents to work at Grambling University’s radio station, KGRM 91.5 FM as Program Director.
But in four years, he would be back at WHUR-FM, working with previous WNHC colleagues, Triscina Grey and Program Director, Hector Hannibal.
A few years later after Hannibal’s departure, Dave became the Program Manager of WHUR-FM where he remained many years.
On leaving WHUR, Dave worked in Public Relations for Walter Reed Hospital. But nothing would keep him away from radio or music. He developed an online site called “knowwax,” dedicated to and showcasing R&B music and sharing his expansive knowledge on seasoned and new artists.
Dave returned to radio with a nationwide reach and influence on the satellite station, SiriusXM Radio as the voice of the program, “Heart and Soul.” There he interviewed artists, played R&B and gave new artist — especially independent artist — national airplay. A fixture as an emcee at D.C.’s Capitol Jazz Festival, he recently hosted the Artist Workshop for the series.
On Oct. 28, 2023, at 5:35 p.m. at home in Maryland, surrounded by family and close friends, Dave’s battle with pancreatic cancer ended. Dave was predeceased by his sister Sharlene, and his parents.
He was a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated and installed as Prince Hall Mason.
There will be a memorial service Friday, Dec. 15, beginning at 1 p.m. at Dunbarton Chapel on the campus of Howard University, Washington, D.C.
His wisdom, smile and memories will be held close by his daughter, Aleshia Jackson, and three grandchildren, many close friends, musicians and colleagues.
Rest well, “Supa Dave.”