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10 Questions with ... Aly Young
June 28, 2016
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
Got my first radio job as a remote tech in 1999 at WPUP and WGMG in Athens, GA while enrolled at University of Georgia. I was PD of both stations by 2004 when I left for Atlanta. Have been in Atlanta ever since as APD/MD/air talent on various iHeart stations (WLCL, WBZY, WKLS, WRDA) mostly of the rock variety. Became Program Director of Radio 105-7 in June 2015.
1. How did you become interested in radio?
Wait, I thought everyone was interested in radio. The love affair starts early with most. Few of us are crazy enough to try to do it for a living. My fascination with radio comes from the broadcasting side as opposed to the music side.
2. You've spent over 10 years in Atlanta. What do you love most about your job?
No two days are alike, really. I love that my job has me doing so many different things. I get to be creative and off the wall one moment, and then I'm working on a spread sheet the next. Programming, promotions, sales, events...and I have such amazing co-workers. We all work together to keep this thing going.
3. Give us the 411 on Radio 105.7.
WRDA is a 20k watt station out of the north side of Atlanta, and we simulcast on WRDG (96.7) to cover the south side. I was brought in to anchor mornings when the station signed on 3 years ago. When I got promoted to PD last June, I switched myself to afternoons...not just so that I could sleep in, but because it turns out being PD is a 24/7 gig. I work with some awesome people like Matt "Knox" Shiflett who does middays and is also my Promotions Director. Mike Jones and Klinger round out my daily lineup, and they are both stellar talents.
4. Congrats on your promotion to PD. What is your biggest challenge in your new role at Radio 105.7?
For me, the biggest challenge is keeping my split personality in check. I need to make sure that my boss-like responsibilities don't ruin my on-air game and vise-versa.
5. How do you go through all the new music?
Me, a giant cup of coffee, some great speakers, and lots of research. My eyes are crossing just thinking about it.
6. Tell us about Under The Covers With Aly.
Clever name, huh? It's a cover song feature I've been doing in Atlanta for over 10 years. Currently, I do it weekdays at 5PM.
7. Give us the rundown on all the stations you voice-track?
No idea what you're talking about. "Aly" is a VERY popular radio name.
8. What do you like best about living in Atlanta?
It's a big city with a small town feel. Totally stole that from a visitors site, but it's true. Most of my family lives in the area, so that's a plus too.
9. Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without _________?
A really good, dark cup of coffee.
10. What would surprise people most about you?
I have about 30 pairs of Chuck Taylors. I'm a collector of sorts.
Bonus Questions
What are your hobbies?
Hobbies? Who has time for hobbies?
Last non-industry job?
I worked at a gas dock at a marina near my house all through high school.
First record ever purchased?
I'm almost positive it was the soundtrack to Disney's Fantasia.
First concert?
If I don't count getting dragged to a Neil Diamond concert when I was 10, Sheryl Crow on her Tuesday Night Music Club tour at The Roxy Theater in 1994
Favorite band of all-time?
This is like a parent picking a favorite child... I don't have a favorite...just depends on what I'm in the mood for. Right now, I'm listening to Glass Animals and Kaleo a lot.
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