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10 Questions with ... Matt Phipps
January 28, 2013
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
I've been in radio off and on (mostly on) since 1990. I spent five years at WBOS in the late 1990s. Most recently I was Assistant Dir./Operations at Metro Networks/Boston. Outside of radio, I've worked for Lyons Group Entertainment in a number of their nightclubs and restaurants, including a stint as Entertainment Director at Game On Sports Bar in Boston.
1. How did you become interested in radio?
As early as three years old, my Mom told me I would stack 45s on my record player and announce to her which song was coming up next. That's a pretty clear indicator.
2. You've held a variety of positions in the Boston market, what intrigued you about the job at The River?
The chance to work for an independent radio station and program a format that I love.
3. What do you like best about working at a Triple A station?
To me, this is the golden era of Triple A. Just look at the Grammy nominations: Fun, Mumford, Jack White and Black Keys all up for Album of the Year. Lumineers and Alabama Shakes gunning for Best New Artist. I am proud to be a part of a station that played a lot of these artists first.
4. How would you describe the music on the station?
The elements of a classic Triple A mixed in with some current and classic Alternative. Neil Young, Siouxsie & The Banshees and Passion Pit all live comfortably under the same roof.
5. How do you feel about the current climate of music?
Well rock n' roll isn't dead yet as witnessed by the Grammy nominations. Unfortunately, not a lot of radio stations are playing new music like us, so radio is becoming more and more of a tough outlet for new artists to be heard.
6. What do you perceive as some of the biggest challenges as an independent station?
Finding unique and out-of-the-box ways to promote the station and its place in the community. Beyond that, I see it more as an asset to be independent. The musical freedom inspires me daily.
7. What has been your biggest career highlight?
In 1998 when I was working at WBOS, Colin Hay stopped by my show and performed one of my all-time favorite songs, "Overkill," 10 feet across from me. I was literally moved to "almost" tears.
8. What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?
Put the time and effort in every day and be true to the music.
9. Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without ...
...my wife and a nice bowl of cereal (in that order, I think)
10. If you wanted to completely change careers today, what would you do?
Teacher. Another low paying but spiritually rewarding gig.
Bonus Questions
Last Non-Industry Job:
Nightclub manager
First Record Ever Purchased:
The Knack "Get The Knack"
First Concert:
The Tubes at the Orpheum Theater 1983
Favorite Band Of All-Time:
Beatles / Pixies/ Donnie Iris
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time away from work?
Warm weather sports; I pretty much hibernate in the winter.
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