BET Founder Robert Johnson to Launch Faith Content YouTube Channel

By Diana Bridgett, Christian Post Contributor Tuesday, February 12, 2013

BET network founder Robert Johnson has partnered with Tracey Edmonds, CEO of Edmonds Entertainment, to launch a faith-friendly YouTube channel called "Alright TV."

"Alright TV will offer first rate buzz-worthy content in the areas of comedy, reality, self-help, music, and talk that promises to empower and entertain family audiences of all ethnicities and socio-economic backgrounds," Edmonds said in a statement.

The faith-based YouTube channel, to be headed by Tracey Edmonds, will feature inspirational and empowering programming geared towards family related issues.

"Bob and I are very excited to move forward with our vision and commitment to provide quality entertainment into the digital arena. I am delighted to work with Bob and YouTube in this innovative relationship."

In addition to his work with "Alright TV," BET founder Robert Johnson has also created RJL Entertainment, one of the largest global independent distributors of digital and video content. Johnson is hoping that the partnership between "Alright TV" and YouTube will further catapult RJL into a leveraging position in media.

"I am very excited about the opportunity to be in a business relationship with YouTube," Johnson said in a statement. "YouTube's commitment to providing a broad array of diversified producer-generated content on YouTube will present an exciting opportunity for consumers and advertiser sponsorship."

In addition, "Alright TV" will partner with Our Stories Films. The goal of the partnership is to capture the audience of online media. Our Stories Films was created by Edmonds, ex-wife of R&B artist and producer Baby Face, who serves as president and COO.

Our Stories Films produced the 2011 hit "Jumping the Broom" along with executive producer Bishop T.D. Jakes.

Robert Johnson founded the BET network 32 years ago, which was the first black controlled company aimed at programming for African Americans. In 2003, Johnson sold the company to Viacom for $3 billion. This acquisition made Johnson one of the first African American billionaires in the United States.

"Alright TV" is set to launch in March, but there is no set date for when programming will begin to air.