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10 Questions with ... Bill Dunn
May 23, 2006
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NAME:Bill DunnTITLE:MDSTATION:WRRVMARKET:Poughkeepsie (#162)/Newburgh (#137)COMPANY:CumulusBORN:February 26, 1978RAISED:Hartford, CT
LAST NON-INDUSTRY JOB:
Village Pizza in Wethersfield, CT
BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
I started out as a roadie for the radio stations in our cluster. I moved up to assistant to the promotions director within a few months. When our promotions director left, I took over the department. I was working parttime on WPDH and WRRV at the time as well. When a full time gig opened up on WRRV, I went for, and got the job. Five years later, I'm still here and loving it!
FIRST RECORD EVER PURCHASED:
Weezer - Blue album
FIRST CONCERT:
Weezer opens for Live at The Sting (New Britain, CT)
FAVORITE BAND OF ALL-TIME:
Any band with Warren Haynes (Gov't Mule, Allman Brothers, Phil Lesh and Friends)
1. How did you become interested in radio?
I've always wanted to be on the radio. I grew up listening to Rock radio in CT. After leaving college early, I was looking for a job with career potential. Flipping burgers is not something I was interested in doing (again). I had a friend on the inside, and he helped me get my foot in the door.
2. What part of your job do you like best? Least?
Best: I love the daily interaction with the listeners and label folks.
Least: Pre-recording anything!
3. What is your biggest challenge at the station?
Keeping our listeners engaged with all the new forms of media out there. WRRV does a great job with this with our great jocks and contesting. We also take pride in being very active in the community. When we can help out at a blood drive, clothing drive, or similar PSA outing, we jump at the chance!
4. What makes your station unique?
Two years ago, I would've had a different answer to this question. I think the fact that we are an "Alternative" Rock station makes us relatively unique. In the past several years, many of the flagship Alternative rockers have flipped to a variety of different formats. WRRV is stronger than ever!!
5. What would surprise people most about WRRV?
Despite targeting the 18-34 crowd, we do really well with people 35+.
6. Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without _________?
My XBOX 360. I have a problem.
7. What are you most passionate about?
The music! You have to love music to be in my position. I love hearing a song you know is going to be a hit after the first listen, for the very first time!
8. Besides WRRV, what is your favorite radio station and why?
WCCC in Hartford is a great rock station! I grew up listening to them and Radio 104. R.I.P. WMRQ. 'CCC is a great rock station with great personalities.
9. Biggest career highlight?
My promotion to Music Director has been the best moment so far. It's a beautiful thing when you work many long hard hours and get the gig!
10. What career path would you be following had it not been for this industry?
I would have further pursued band management more actively. I can't imagine myself working with something other than music.
Bonus Questions
What are your hobbies?
My biggest hobby is going to shows. Turns out I am in the right business. I've seen numerous Dead and Phish shows. It's all about the camping festivals these days. I've got Bonnarroo, The All Good Festival and Gathering Of The Vibes lined up for this summer.
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