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10 Questions with ... Orphan Andrew
May 31, 2011
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
Well, I started stalking Broadway Bill Lee on WKTU back in 98 ... the rest is history. Weekends @ Max 106.3 In Northern New Jersey, then weekends closer to home at WBLI/Long Island for about three years. After that, I skipped town to San Diego (Channel 93.3), Modesto (KHOP @95.1), Jacksonville (95.1 WAPE) and most recently Sacramento and San Francisco (95.7 The Wolf).
1) What makes your station unique? How would you compare it to other stations you've worked at?
The video content that has been produced here is by far the best I have seen. We actually converted an old office/desk area into a high-quality video studio equipped with anything and everything you need to produce stellar content. From live performances to photo shoots and beyond, this room gets used a lot. We have proper green screens, lighting, sound and everything you would expect to see walking into a TV station.
2) What is the most challenging part of the job?
One of the most challenging things on-air has to be finding creative and effective ways to say the same thing. Word consolidation has always been something I've found to be a challenge, which I love and hate at the same time. You have so much to say, in so little time. It's all about finding different ways to say the same thing and still make it hit home with whoever is on the other end of the microphone.
3) What artist would we be surprised to find on your iPod?
India.Arie and Savage Garden ... need I say more?
4) Who is your favorite air personality not on your staff and why do you like them?
Broadway Bill Lee at CBS-FM in New York is probably the most recognizable voice in New York radio. He nails every break with effortless ease. It's because of him that I do this for a living, so to say he is my favorite would be an understatement. He's the man! I grew up listening to him on WKTU and was hooked.
5) Looking back, which years hold the best musical memories for you and who were your favorite acts at that time?
The '9's! You really didn't like Ace Of Base? You're a liar.
6) Do you have a favorite hobby outside of radio?
Yes, now that you mention it. I need more vacation days. I love to travel; it's my thing. Whether it's a quick weekend trip or going to Europe, getting out and exploring other places have always been fascinating to me. I'm looking forward to going home to NYC this summer and then a cruise in September. Bring it!
7) What music do you listen to when you're not working?
Well, believe it or not, before I moved to California I didn't even know what Country music was. Growing up in New York, there really wasn't an outlet for it. It's amazing how people in other parts of the country kind of get pushed into liking a genre because they just don't have any other options or outlets to discover it. I try to put the Gaga and Rihanna away when not on the air. House music is also at the top of my list, too.
8) What is it about our industry that keeps you wanting to do it for a living?
What other job is going to pay me to go to Disneyland? I mean, hands down, this is the most fun I am ever going to have "working." And when it's not fun anymore, that's when it may be time to re-evaluate. Something about being able to connect with masses of people intrigues me. Mix that in with Lady Gaga (who also intrigues me) ... winning combo.
9) What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?
If you work hard, have the drive to succeed and make your relationships with other people in the industry count, you will always be on the right track to something. Whether it be your first gig or your next gig, building great relationships with others in the industry will do much more than any resume and demo ever could. More important than making the relationships is keeping them. Stay in touch. Don't be annoying.
10) What advice you would give people new to the business?
- Be patient -- you work on the PD's time, not yours.
- Stay humble -- it is a privilege to do this for a living.
- Follow directions -- If they ask for a demo less than three minutes ... they mean a demo less than three minutes.
Bonus Questions
What ringtone do you have on your cell?
My phone is usually on vibrate. I know ... borrrrrrring.
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