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10 Questions with ... Ken West
September 22, 2015
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
Intern at WZLX. Stayed there for 10 years and did everything from answer phones (listener line and front desk,) van driver, promotions, board-op, production assistant, morning show producer, and Assistant Music Director. Had the pleasure of working with such legends as the late GREAT George Taylor Morris, Charles Laquidara, Carter Alan, and Chuck Nowlin. I came to Greater Media in 2002 as APD of WROR and became PD of WROR in 2006 and PD of WBOS (Radio 92.9) in 2009. Working here is an honor, especially being guided in Programming by Buzz Knight and Cadillac Jack.
1. What stands out the most from when you left CBS for Greater Media 13 years ago?
I was scared of such a big change and leaving behind 10 years of hard work and memories. But I will always remember how welcoming everyone was (and still are).
2. What do you love most about working for Greater Media?
First and foremost, the people and the fact that they treat people like people. It's also great to have the autonomy execute an idea or concept without having to get corporate approval. We have complete creative control over our brands and that helps us stay local and relevant to our specific audiences.
3. How would you describe yourself as a programmer?
Part Walter White, part Jesse Pinkman, and once in a while, Gus Fring. Feel free to psychoanalyze that.
4. What is the most challenging part of the job?
The day has only 24 hours.
5. What is Radio 92.9's position on new music with less than 20 currents?
We try to play the biggest hits to compliment the gold we play that we think the audience will like. Sometimes we even guess right.
6. Give us a rundown of on-air lineup at Radio 92.9 with a brief description of each jock
Our hosts are there to enhance the music experience and add local companionship without taking away from the music.
I'll let them tell you about themselves:
- Jarvis does mornings.
- Amy Brooks does afternoons.
- Jason Rossi hosts our new music show "What's Next" and billions of around town events.
7. Tell us about the Boch Studio 92.9 Performances.
Boch Auto is a local client with several dealerships. His partnership includes the naming of our in-studio artist performances and interviews. The best ones include invited listeners and juicy stories or fun cover songs.
8. What's a typical work day like for you?
On a good day, it's collaborating with my awesome teams to create excellent ideas or content that benefits our audience and/or clients. On a bad day, its things I shouldn't mention here.
9. What would surprise people most about you?
I was once a call-in guest on the Howard Stern show for about 10-15 minutes.
10. What is the one truth that remains constant throughout your career?
Hard work and honesty have never failed me.
Bonus Questions
What was your favorite station to listen to when you were a kid and what do you remember the most about the station?
I listened to WAQY in Springfield when it was WACKY 102. I used to tape songs from the radio (kids, ask your parents what a tape is) and I remember hearing songs like "Who Are You" by the Who and "Take Your Time (Do It Right)" by the S.O.S band right next to each other and there was nothing wrong or weird about it. Somehow they fit together.
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