Biography
Self-made and multi-hyphenate are roads that intersect for only a select few and they are roads that Rolanje "RoJay" Armstead has been steadily traveling for over 20 years. Often referred to as the life of the party, he has worked tirelessly behind the scenes over the last two decades planning, promoting and hosting endless kinds of "parties" within the realms of media and entertainment.
RoJay's media journey started upon graduation from JSU in Alabama with a Broadcast Journalism degree. His extensive media training, pop culture knowledge, and charismatic savoir faire allowed him to quickly transition into multiple roles both behind and in front of the camera. After becoming Digital Operations Manager for overnight broadcasts at ABC affiliate WAAY TV in his hometown of Huntsville, AL, producers found him so endearing, they created a weekly "Dirty Laundry" entertainment segment for him to host which ran for three consecutive years. While most would have used their mornings for rest, RoJay took the opportunity to further his craft by also becoming an on-air morning show correspondent for 103.1 WEUP, quickly ascending to the permanent role of "Man on the Street".
With his entrepreneurial spirit not being satiated, RoJay simultaneously took his passion for media and formed his own corporation: MiddleChild Promotions LLC. Established in 2002, his entertainment e-zine evolved into a mature digital marketing and promotion company offering a full suite of services which record labels, both major and independent, have taken advantage of. From organizing street teams to album rollout campaigns, graphic design services and promotional appearances nationwide, numerous R&B and Hip-Hop artists have reaped the benefits of RoJay and his MiddleChild team's hard work.
An even bigger testament to his hard work came with RoJay being hired as the full-time production coordinator and chief digital media manager for Grammy Award-winning singer Monica. Working in tandem with her production company, management company, and the artist herself, he has played key roles in the planning, launch and execution of the promotional campaigns for her last three studio albums, her upcoming R&B and Country albums, and numerous tours nationwide.
Not one to rest for long, the evolution of RoJay's brand continued with the January 2020 premiere of his digital media series "Out The Box''. Serving as the executive producer, chief writer, and co-host alongside his effervescent partner DJ Primetime, RoJay has designed this platform to be a spotlight on the best Black artists and artisans across all spheres, from entertainers to educators to entrepreneurs, in hopes of giving a voice to the independents trying to grow empires of their own and showcasing how Black people are no one's monolith.
Of course he did not stop there. In 2021, his tireless work reaped yet another reward with The Love Offering, his own evening radio show airing weekdays on the Tennessee Valley's biggest inspirational station, Worship 94.5. It's designed as a forum where his love for music gets to shine and where he can embrace listeners with a warm mix of old and new school, classic and fresh music, from hot new talent as well as countless notable R&B artists.
And, no, that is not all. RoJay has still found time to nurture his other interests as well, such as modeling and fitness, and these naturally unlocked other opportunities for him as well, most notably a feature as one of EBONY Magazine’s Ten Sexiest Singles in America (2011). Also, still a resident of Huntsville, he continues to pour back into his community by donating his time and services to charitable fundraisers and events all throughout the year.
As for the future? "Media mogul has a nice ring to it!" - RoJay
