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10 Questions with ... Amy Kaplan
September 1, 2020
Have an opinion? Add your comment below. My main objective with radio is finding a partnership that fits and binds the station to the success of an artist. For some this is brainstorming events, for others sourcing interviews or signed vinyl to support a fund drive. Right now, more than ever, radio needs us to help find shared revenue opportunities for both the station and the artist.
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
I began at A&M Records as an assistant. My first regional promo gig was with Elektra Records, then Imago Recordings, American Recordings, 10+ years at RCA and my last label gig at Capitol Records. I have always been based in Chicago.
1. What stands out the most from when you first started in the business at Elektra?
The use of streaming, socials and other data analytics, as terrestrial radio leans harder into these metrics to warrant / justify airplay.
2. What has it been like working at Mick Management the past 10 years?
Working at Mick has been a privilege, as I have had front row access to the growth of a set of iconic, dynamic new artists. The partners at Mick - Michael McDonald and Jonathan Eshak - have provided a platform where I’ve been able to nurture relationships across all radio formats and establish new connections at non-terrestrial outlets such as Amazon & Spotify. The company is team-oriented, open to opinions from all, and organizationally flat - this transparency affords a unique lens into artist development. Whether a publishing deal, a brand deal, or a playlisting strategy, Michael and Jonathan encourage us all to be a part of the conversation.
3. Tell us about running the radio promotion department and how you work with radio?
My main objective with radio is finding a partnership that fits and binds the station to the success of an artist. For some this is brainstorming events, for others sourcing interviews or signed vinyl to support a fund drive. Right now, more than ever, radio needs us to help find shared revenue opportunities for both the station and the artist.
4. Give us the 411 on your current projects at Alternative Radio and what's on deck.
The Backseat Lovers are one of Mick’s newest clients. Their song “Kilby Girl” is just starting to make noise at ALT radio, with KKDO leading the way, 50% streaming growth month-over-month, now 10MM+ cume streams. The Heavy Hours is my new baby band at 7S. “Don’t Walk Away“ is getting a great foothold at Triple A, with Music Choice leading the way at ALT. The band was so eager to get out to meet people that they rented an RV, and have been doing socially distant performances for radio, promoters and press. On deck is new music from Of Monsters And Men, Magic Giant and (fingers crossed) Walk The Moon.
5. Music consumption has become a big piece of the promotion puzzle. How has this changed how you work singles to radio?
Having a streaming story is important, but what we're really looking at is how is the song is being consumed. We like to see engagement with the song - things like fan saves or creating their own playlists with the track. It's exciting to see young artists leveraging platforms like TikTok to build a foundation for streaming. We are always looking for sparks to break through the clutter of music and culture.
6. How would you describe your promotion style
Tenacious.
7. What is your favorite part of the job?
Hearing my artists on the radio for the first time / standing side stage watching an audience sing along with a band's hit song. It never gets old!
8. Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without _________?
Working Out
9. What was a normal workday like for you before Covid?
Wake up early before everyone in my house; skim the NYTimes and daily updates from Recode and Digital Music News; look at overnight tracking; take my daughter to school; workout and hit the phones. Pre-COVID, I traveled frequently, splitting myself between two companies and about 40 artists. I really miss seeing the people at Mick, 7S, and of course I miss all the radio folks. I miss the energy and excitement of taking someone to a show and turning them on to your artist!
10. What may surprise people the most about you?
I don’t like big crowds.
Bonus Questions
What makes your chocolate chip cookies so fantastic? Will you share your recipe?
They are so yummy because … I mix them by hand. Lol … honestly, I don’t know, but they are my “thing” that I do love to make for people. If you want the recipe, call me!
What were weekends like for you before the Coronavirus and what are they like now?
Weekends pre-COVID were often watching my daughter play field hockey or soccer. Lots of exercise - long bike rides, walks, yoga etc. Now I still get outside a lot, but have been binging on various TV shows (haven’t we all?) Ray Donovan, The Handmaids Tale, Unorthodox. The past 6 months have been a little different because I have also had my oldest home from college doing remote learning.
What are your favorite restaurants in The Windy City?
RPM Italian, Andy’s Thai Kitchen, Galiet, Le Colonial, the list could keep going.
Favorite food?
Peanut Butter and Apples
Favorite drink?
Tequila
How often do you get back home and what are your top priorities when you get back to Baltimore?
I try to get home a few times a year. My parents are still in Baltimore, and I have a sister and nieces there. I have some dear friends from my childhood who I spend time with as well.
Rank your sports teams in order of passion.
Steelers & Penguins (My husband is from Pittsburgh)
Favorite new band over the past year that you're not working?
Black Pumas & Khruangbin are the first two that popped into my mind.
Anything else you would like to add?
Please VOTE!
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