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10 Questions with ... Rey de Carlo "The Razor"
October 4, 2016
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
Started in 1989 as an intern in L.A. at the legendary Pure Rocker, KNAC. I worked my way up to full-time jock and was there till the very end in 1995 when Lars Ulrich shed a tear with the staff over its demise. A few months later I found myself in Miami working at 94.9 Zeta with Gregg Steele, who put together such a great station. In 2007 I transferred to a Clear Channel station in my hometown, and in 2009, eventually got blown out. I then met Larry Mac, who brought me on board as a weekend jock in 2010. He eventually made me his APD for KLPX and recently KFMA.
1. How did you first become interested in radio?
First the music sucked me in, and then I realized there was something happening in between all the music. Like a lot of people, I started making my own radio shows by playing records and talking into a tape recorder and making people listen to them. I wish I had one so I could aircheck myself.
2. After working in Rock Radio for many years, what led you to the KFMA APD post?
I was already Larry's APD on the classic rock side, which can be a comfortable gig because the music doesn't change. So, after the former KFMA APD exited, I had many discussions with Larry and found that my passion in new bands and music was still there and our working relationship was strong. We have similar programming philosophies and it seemed like a great way to make our programming team stronger.
3. What has been your biggest challenge in your new role?
Having been on the classic rock side for over a decade now, it's been a while since I've interacted with all the labels. So, getting reacquainted and keeping track of who is working what is taking some time to get straight. But it's all coming together.
4. What is a typical day like with your duties at KLPX and KFMA?
Both stations are very active, so, coming in and focusing on the most pressing issue is usually how it works. It could be writing copy, a promo meeting, preparing for a band to come in or any number of fires to put out. After that some music scheduling is in order. I voice track overnights, so that's in there somewhere. By that point usually some other issue has arisen. So, non-stop is typical. So is coming in early and leaving late. We're workaholics.
5. How did you get the nickname The Razor?
Well, it's not a far stretch from my name...Rey. Having started at KNAC with names like Thrasher, Gonzo Greg, Dangerous Darren, Jack Trash, etc... I had to have something strong to stand by their side. There is a longer version to it, but that's it more or less.
6. What is it like working for Larry Mac?
I'm not a guy to be blowin' a lot of smoke. That being said, it sucks! The guy won't get off my back. Truth is, I can't tell you how instrumental he's been in my career at this stage of the game. We both have a strong work ethic and have been in the biz for nearly the same amount of time. We have a good understanding of where we're heading as a team and how we work off each other. He has a lot of trust in me and I do everything I can not to break it.
7. What is your favorite part of your job?
Discovering new music and the concerts are always great, but, there is nothing like the feeling of coming in every day and creating great radio with people you enjoy working with.
8. What do you like best about living in Tucson?
You know, I moved from Tucson to L.A. when I was 20 with the intention of not coming back. Sometimes it still feels weird to be here. But after being back, I love that it has grown into a town with a big city feel, but at the same time I can drive 20 minutes and be in the middle of nowhere just off-roading in my Jeep. And it's got the best Mexican food in the country.
9. Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without _________?
Thinking of my wife. She's my high school sweetheart, and the whole reason I moved back to Tucson.
10. What would surprise people most about you?
Whenever I tell people that I'm 50 I see that surprised look. That's always fun.
Bonus Questions
What are your hobbies?
Playing guitar, collecting anything comic book or super hero related.
Last non-industry job?
I worked at Target for a month. Not my thing. They don't like when you get on the mic at the register and back announce tunes and do shout outs.
First record ever purchased?
KISS - Rock and Roll Over
First concert?
Ted Nugent - June 24th 1979 @ the Tucson Community Center (now Convention Center...see, that's the growing part)
Favorite band of all-time?
I have three equals in no particular order: Rush, Van Halen and KISS. I call them my holy trinity.
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