• This month, we remember Meek Mill's performance at Powerhouse 2010. Thanks to the generosity of Charlie Mack, Urban X-pressions was able to run a contest for its viewers to attend the concert and meet Meek Mill, DJ Drama, Lloyd, and Bobby V backstage.
  • Meek Mill on stage at Powerhouse 2010
  • Meek Mill at Powerhouse 2010
  • Powerhouse 2010 Lloyd with Shelly Shell Williams
  • Bobby V at Powerhouse 2010

I Reminisce, I Reminisce: Celebrating Urban X-pressions

“You can’t front on Urban X-pressions; they hold you down when you ain’t got no cable”  Meek Mill – Powerhouse 2010

As we celebrate Black History Month, it’s important to look back on the trailblazing achievements of those who paved the way for future generations. One such trailblazer is Urban X-pressions, the longest-running video show in Philadelphia broadcast history.  

Established in 1992, Urban X-pressions was a beacon of light in a time when technology was far less advanced, and indie content producers struggled to get their material seen by the masses. Despite these challenges, the show was able to introduce major artists and help make them stars, thanks in large part to its airing on WGTW TV 48, owned by Dorothy Brunson, the first African American woman in the nation to own a TV and radio station.

Every Saturday from 11 pm to 1 am, Urban X-pressions was the only live video show on a black-owned public broadcast station. It was accessible to anyone, regardless of whether they had cable. This made it a lifeline for people in prisons, who could view the show. Despite facing tough competition from Saturday Night Live, the show was able to keep its ratings up and maintain its audience, reaching millions every week. 

In this monthly column, we will pay tribute to Urban X-pressions and its impact on music and entertainment. This month, we remember Meek Mill’s performance at Powerhouse 2010. Thanks to the generosity of Charlie Mack, Urban X-pressions was able to run a contest for its viewers to attend the concert and meet Meek Mill, DJ Drama, Lloyd, and Bobby V backstage. The winners of the contest, Anissa and John, went on to conduct interviews with the artists, creating unforgettable memories that still live on today.

To relive the magic of Urban X-pressions and see the video from that historic concert, visit Urbanxpressions.com and become a member. Let’s continue to celebrate the legacy of this pioneering show and all those who made it possible.