(December 27, 2024) We are sad to inform SoulTrackers of the passing of pioneering music veteran, Bill Speed, a man who quietly advanced Black music during a challenging time for soul, funk and R&B.
A Cleveland native, Speed entered the music business six decades ago and had a life of firsts. In 1977 he became the first Black Editor at Radio and Records, one of the leading music industry magazines. Six years later he helped create BET’s Video Soul, the first television show dedicated to Black music videos.
Speed was also instrumental in establishing June as Black Music Month, and also created one of the first industry charts to track hip-hop/rap music.
Later in his career, Speed worked at The Urban Network became Editor-in-Chief of Impact! Magazine.
Bill Speed was not a household name, but his influence was simply tremendous. He is survived by his daughter Lauren Speed and son Nick Speed, both of whom are active in the entertainment scene nationally.
