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10 Questions with ... Garrett Capone
May 29, 2012
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
- 2002: KXOA (became KHWD)/Sacramento
- 2002-2004: KWOD/Sacramento
- 2004: KUIC/Vacaville. CA
- 2004-2005: WIXV & WBMQ-AM/Savannah, GA
- 2005-2007: WHRL/Albany NY
- 2007-2012: 91X, San Diego.
1. Why did you decide to leave radio for artist management?
Not to nitpick, but have I really "left" radio? Right now I'm working with more radio stations AND formats than I probably ever would have as a PD. Seriously though; it was time for me to explore another avenue of the music business. The situation, the timing, everything was just right for me both personally and professionally.
2. How tough was it for you to leave 91X?
It was hard, man. F*cking hard. But we did some great things during my time there and the 91X brand is in great hands. Not good hands, GREAT hands. Christy Taylor is one of my favorite people in the business.
3. What will you miss most about radio?
Despite what certain high-level broadcast executives might tell you, radio really is an art form on its own. The music choice, the presentation, so much of it is a reflection of the person making the decisions regarding what comes out over those airwaves (or that stream). Being able to curate something like that, while making a genuine connection with an audience - pretty powerful. Not to mention make a living doing it.
Honestly, it's hard to think of what I will/won't miss about radio since I'm still so in touch with those folks that are still "in radio." Early-morning sales meetings were never something I really enjoyed. And 3am phone calls from the studio because they need fill music.
4. What excited you most about joining the Crush Management team?
Terrific and diverse artist roster. Top-notch people from the owners to the interns. Forward-thinking mentality. Family vibe.
5. What may surprise people the most about the company?
Despite having some pretty successful mainstream artists (Gym Class Heroes, Train, Cobra Starship, Matt Nathanson, etc.), Crush is still fully committed to alternative/rock music -- Foxy Shazam, a New Politics record and Wavves record this year, potentially a new Panic! At The Disco record as well. Plus we are always on the lookout for new bands to bring into the fold.
We also have the Angels & Kings bar franchise (Hollywood, Chicago, NYC and Barcelona) and a sports division too.
Check out the website www.crushmm.com.
6. What is your biggest challenge?
Anytime you start a new job, especially on the other side of the country from your new company's home office (I'm based out of LA and the main office is in NYC) there's going to be a period of adjustment. That's the big thing right now, acclimating.
7. How much does being a PD help you in your new job?
Understanding. Perspective. Empathy. You don't truly have those things for radio unless you've been in that chair yourself. My sincere hope is that the radio programmers I deal with understand that. I've been there, man. I totally get what you're going through. So how can I help you?
8. What are you most passionate about?
Living life, winning, success, music and football.
9. What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?
If you work hard every day, care genuinely about what you're doing, and always respect/utilize the knowledge and experience of those around you...you will succeed. Otherwise, you will probably fail. The choice is yours.
10. What is one thing that may surprise many people to learn about you?
I watch WWE religiously. I even DVR the shows if I'm not home. Judge me if you must.
Bonus Questions
What new music are you most excited about right now?
The new Garbage record is freaking great. If the album is as good as the first song, then The Gaslight Anthem are going to become a household name. I'm also crazy about an artist on our roster, a female singer/songwriter named Vanessa Bley. Her self-released EP is on iTunes. Rather than give you comparisons, go listen to it yourself. Or maybe AllAccess will put the songs up on the Cool New Music page?
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