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10 Questions with ... Orlando
August 18, 2015
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
I started in Tallahassee, while in college at Florida A&M University, as an intern in '91. I moved to reception/traffic, then on air, doing nights at Top 40/Mainstream WXSR (Star 101.5)/Tallahassee. I eventually became the MD and shortly after, we changed formats to Alternative and became WXSR (X101.5) in '93. I remained on as MD and then became PD/nights. In '95, I left for Top 40/Mainstream WWLD (Wild 106)/Tallahassee and became MD/afternoons and then switched to WHBX/Tallahassee in '97. In '98, I finally left the comfort of Tallahassee for Tampa, as MD/aternoons at WLLD (WiLD 98.7). In '01, I segued to PD/Mornings, where I reside, right now, at our WiLD 94.1, The Bay's Party Station.
1. What got you into radio?
A lot of things. Listening to Tom Joyner and Doug Banks, every day on WGCI, growing up. Also Lee Reynolds, my first PD, who heard me screwing around with his overnight DJ, and allowed me to stay and learn. I owe many people for this charmed life (and lack of sleep, lol)
2. Think back to being a kid...is life playing out like you may have envisioned it?
It really is...minus the briefcase, suit and law degree. My mom always says, from the age of 7, I'd lay in front of the stereo speaker, listening to DJ's and songs. She tells the story of my discovery of harmony as my saying "mama, there's somebody else singing in there". Strange boy, indeed.
3. You've just signed an extension that has you at WLLD through 2020. What's the feeling like as a deal like that is presented to you?
I felt thankful, first. Having such a change, from a company that I was with for 15 years, it's heartwarming to be welcomed into an awesomely, creative and radio(y), for lack of a better word, situation. I also felt a real sense of pride in what our WiLD team has been able to do here. I couldn't be extended a day, if it wasn't for the hard work being done in the building.
4. Do your daughters enjoy the station?
My daughters LOVE the station but they're Radio Disney P1's. They love that I know Brooke Taylor as much as Ariana Grande and Tori Kelly.
5. Speaking of your daughters...ever have those cringe-worthy moments as they listen to WiLD?
They are so young that most of the good stuff flies over their heads, but their mom is good at making sure the stuff that they should here, they catch. It definitely changes your vernacular, when your two girls are listening. I think it makes you a better communicator, like when Stern did terrestrial. The art is saying it, without saying it. #StillLearning
6. Any particular song on the station that has you out of your chair whenever it comes on?
I'm quick to jump to The Weeknd "Can't Feel My Face". However I did hear that song has been dedicated to Bill Cosby more than any song in history. What? Too soon?
7. If you weren't in radio, what do you think you'd be doing professionally?
Do they pay prostitutes by the pound? Probably back to finish my degree and teaching. Radio has sort of trained us all to deal with kids, so I think I could help quite a few.
8. You've got great ears and the ability to spot star potential. Who's on the cusp and poised for a big breakout?
I think Tori Kelly will be one of the huge artists, in our format. She's got the voice and writing talent. I also thing Sage The Gemini will continue to grow and prosper. While my heart is in hip hop, I think the lazy approach to lyrical content will limit many from longevity, unfortunately.
9. How would Brewstaaa describe you as a boss?
Crazy. We fight over who picks more hits, all the time, and when I don't like hers...I'm "crazy". She's usually right.
10. In your opinion, is music for Rhythm radio best researched in a strip club?
I still believe strip club research is the best because the ladies pick songs that move you, and also titles that they can move to. Big songs, with big response, do well on those stages. I liken it to working with Jerry Clifton...you'll get AMAZING ideas but may need to sift through, for the gold, and leave the one's that'll get you arrested behind.
Bonus Questions
Will Donald Trump be the Republican Party nominee for President in 2016?
Donald Trump is not interested in being the nominee. In my opinion, this race offers him the one thing that he can't buy....POWER! He'll "she's a fat pig", "you're a loser" and "our leaders are just stupid" his way to the top of the heap and offer his 20% poll results to someone that he can help get the prize. I'm sure that gesture will come with some sort of Presidential access or involvement. THEN, the laughing stock gets a seat, at the table, that he could not buy.
Lightning round! One word, word association:
Ryan Seacrest: Everywhere
Jon Stewart: G.O.A.T.
Bubba The Love Sponge: 98.7
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