-
10 Questions with ... Matt McKay
September 6, 2006
Have an opinion? Add your comment below. -
NAME:Matt McKayTITLE:PD/Afternoons/Corporate Imaging Dir.STATION:102.7 KFRXMARKET:Lincoln, NEOWNER:Three Eagles
Please outline your radio career so far:
KYCW/Seattle: Intern/PT/Promotions
KZMG/Boise: AM Producer/Overnights/Swing
KKNB/Lincoln: AM Show/Imaging
WYIL/Knoxville: AM Show/Imaging
KFRX/Lincoln: PD/Afternoons/Corporate Imaging Director1 How would you describe your first radio gig?
My first "real" gig would have been in Boise. The morning show didn't really need much of a producer, so I started collaborating ideas with the very creative afternoon guy (Brady Goodman). We just clicked, and five months later, we were off to do mornings in Lincoln.
2 What led you to a career in radio?
I was seriously in danger of failing High School. The career counselor suggested I do something in the entertainment field. Working at the College station, 89.9 KGRG, was more doable than moving to LA to become an actor, so off I went. I passed High School and failed every College class - except radio! A sure sign I should spend the rest of my life doing radio!
3 What does the radio marketplace look like in Lincoln?
Musically, there are a few AC's, two Country outlets, a Rocker, as well as a Classic Rock and a Classic Hits station - even a Spanish signal. We are the only true Pop station in the market.
4 How many years has KFRX been Top 40?
Over 20!!!
5 What is your favorite part of the job?
I love to create promotions that not only kill on the air and with our listeners, but create revenue. The radio gods blessed this station with an amazing sales crew who understand the importance of not butchering promotions and content just to make a buck.
6 Who are some of your favorite air personalities not on your staff and why do you like them?
Brady Goodman - he constantly inspires me thru content and originality.
T-Man (KUBE) - he finds compelling content with humans and knows how to run his circus.
Phil Hendrie - just frigging amazing and sick!
7 What was your favorite station to listen to when you were a kid?
KUBE and KPLZ in Seattle.
8 What music do you listen to when you're not working?
Here are the first 3 discs in my changer...
1. Modest Mouse
2. Bratt "The L Word"
3. Arctic Monkeys9 What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?
Today could be the last day I crack the mic. Why wasn't I taping?
10 What is the current state of the radio 'talent pool'?
There is a lot of talent, but unfortunately not many part time positions where they can learn how to swim! I love when I get a passionate intern with talent galore. This gives me the opportunity to teach, and share my experiences and love for the game. Yet it's still hard for them to get past that point with so little real world on-air experience. Luckily, Three Eagles has smaller markets in the Midwest, where we can send them in order to take what they've learned, and develop their talent.
Bonus Questions
What advice you would give people new to the business?
Learn, learn, learn! As cliche as it sounds: leave your ego at the door. Be proactive, passionate, and make memorable moments with everyone you come in contact with! Oh, and ALWAYS roll tape!
-
-