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10 Questions with ... Neci
August 16, 2021
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
I've been on the air a long time and it thrills me now as much as it did on day one. I've done urban, country, alternative, hot adult contemporary, reggae and adult contemporary. I've been around the block a few times.
1. How would you describe your first radio gig?
I was thrilled. My first time cracking the mic was at WCVT, my college radio station. It changed my life and cemented what I already know since age five – I wanted to be on the radio.
2. What led you to a career in radio?
My dad used to take us to shows at the drive-in and I was fascinated by the guy on stage and loved the live music.
3. Are things back to “normal” as far as staff being back in the building and studios these days?
Not completely. There are people from all the different departments around, but not all of us at the same time yet.
4. “Local local local” has always been radio’s mantra. Has your station been able to stay visible and involved in the community? Have you been getting back out there yet?
We've still tried to be involved with our station’s communities, but of course, COVID has continued to limit the activities that we can do.
5. You were part of the team at the legendary WHFS, what were a couple of highlights from your time there?
OMG, talk about being lucky! I worked at a radio station that let me play whatever I wanted…whatever! I also worked with some very cool people. David Einstein was my program director and working and learning from him was a joy. I learned to love reggae music, leading to my hosting of the “Reggae Splashdown.” I took over hosting duties when the super cool Tom Terrell moved to New York. Looking back on it now, once again, I was so lucky. The more years I was at HFS and the more it evolved, the luckier I felt. And of course there were the HFStivals. I can say that we showed people how to throw a party. Those shows were infamous. The memories...
6. You are known as someone who crosses all kinds of musical genres to track down potential hits? Where did your deep love of music come from?
Two words: My dad.
7. You’re someone who doesn’t shy away from reaching out to artists directly on social media to share your thoughts. What’s been the coolest response that you’ve ever gotten from someone?
That's a tough one but I'd have to say Dan + Shay. I love country music. I actually did a country radio show for six months a few years ago. I would do country radio again in a heartbeat! I have always loved the music, but I also love the way they treat their fans!
8. Who haven’t you interviewed yet that you’d love to? And who have been a couple of your all-time favorite interview subjects?
I would love to interview Dave Grohl. We've talked several times, but I would love to do a serious sit down with him. I'd love to interview Garth Brooks. Again, we've talked a couple of times (he said I was the only person who loved the Chris Gaines record!). I would also love to interview Phil Collins. I have been a fan of his since way back in the day.
Fred Schneider from The B-52’s was so great…if I was having a party, he’d be atop of that list. Interviewing David Bowie was super, super cool and a dream come true. Also, Lowen & Navarro was life changing for both them and me.
9. What were your favorite stations growing up as a kid? Jock(s)?
I loved WCAO, WFBR, WSID (there was a DJ there named Boss Lady. I loved her style). As I got older I got into rock and alternative--I loved WKTK, WAYE and WIYY.
10. Who were your mentors? Who would you say has influenced your career the most?
Casey Kasem for sure. Johnny Walker, who was on WFBR. Al Jefferson who was on WWIN (that man's voice was so deep it made the earth move!) and the aforementioned Boss Lady. As far as who has influenced my career the most, it would have to be my listeners. Without them, I would have no job. I look at it this way, they have so many choices out there. The fact that they choose me humbles me. My listeners are like my family. I love them large!
Bonus Questions
What was your first concert…best concert…and most recent concert?
First Concert: The Kingston Trio…Best Concert: HFStival 2000…Most Recent: Slim Man at Rams Head in Annapolis
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