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10 Questions with ... David Ravikoff
October 25, 2016
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
First job: 2001, TVT Records, Promotion Assistant in NYC...then I headed over to Universal Records, also as Promotion Assistant in 2004. Eager to jump deeper into the promotion world, I was named DC Local and headed south. In 2006, I went over to Warner Bros Records, also as DC local. Kicking off 2016, I headed back north to the Big Apple now holding the position of Sr Director Alt/Rock Promotion for WBR!
1. How did you become interested in the record business?
I was a college radio kid, WRGW at the George Washington University. After years of talking to labels, independent promoters, attending CMJs, and bringing artists into the station - I was hooked. I knew I wanted to work for a record company. I was also a huge music nerd.
2. After a decade at the Warner Bros., what has been the biggest challenge since your promotion at the beginning of 2016, outside of moving from DC to New York?
Learning to be more of a manager has been a new and fun challenge! It's great to work with our field staff one on one and back them up. As a recent former local, that's been a highlight for sure.
3. What do you love most about your job?
Breaking new artists!
4. How would you describe your promotion style?
Relaxed but extremely focused.
5. What is the toughest part of your job?
These days it's tough when we have all these new ways to measure success (streams, shazam, etc.) and some people are still not convinced.
6. What is it like working for Rob Goldklang?
Rob is the best! We actually just spent an entire week together launching Green Day in New York with visits to Howard Stern, Fallon, Sirius, etc., and no matter what's going on, Rob has the ability to make everyone smile and can put everyone at ease. He's also a beast in closing Airplay.
7. Where do you get your greatest pleasure in doing record promotion?
When an artist truly breaks wide open, such as Muse, The Black Keys, or Royal Blood, Promotion is on the front lines and in the trenches every day. It's an amazing feeling knowing that you played a part in much bigger story!
8. Where is your favorite market you like to visit and why?
DC/Baltimore: so many old friends and memories...plus you haven't seen a show until you've been to the 9:30 Club.
9. Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without _______?
COFFEE
10. What do you like best about living in New York?
I love the feeling that at any given moment, anything is possible. Also that there are 10 million things to do every night!
Bonus Questions
What would surprise people the most about you?
Luther Campbell from 2 Live Crew almost moved next door to us when I was a kid!!! How cool would that have been?????
What is a typical weekend like for you when you're not working?
Right now I'm in super "discover New York" mode. I have a long list of things I want to do and try and check off one thing per weekend!
What are your hobbies?
I still LOVE going to see live music - especially stuff outside of work. I also collect vinyl, love to read, and a huge TV addict. There's just too much good stuff on these days.
First record ever purchased?
The Fat Boys "Crushin" & Beastie Boys "Licensed To Ill" -- both on cassette
First concert?
George Michael & The Bangles at Joe Robbie Stadium in Miami.
Favorite band of all-time?
Drop D from Charlotte NC. DZL from 106.5 The End is the lead singer, and they melted my face!!!
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