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10 Questions with ... CJ Morgan
February 2, 2021
Have an opinion? Add your comment below. Social media is just part of my routine as an entertainer. It just comes naturally to do what I do on-air online as well – or at least use one to tease the other. As I always say, the most important thing about radio is the internet!
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
My radio career started with a tape deck and eventually found me working in TV news, hosting a junior college morning show and eventually working professionally. I started in promotions for Emmis Austin, worked as the early morning front desk greeter and did everything in-between until annoying my way on-air. I started part time with 101X, moved to evenings (and a brief stint as middays) on 93.7 KLBJ. As my digital skills grew, I began to take a larger role within the company and produce digital content for the Dudley & Bob + Matt Morning Show. In 2019 I moved up to drive time on 101X and took the role of Director Of Digital Content… then COVID. Yay!
1. How did you first become interested in radio?
As a kid my dad was what we call a prize (ahem) pig. He answered all the trivia questions over the phone, dragged me out to remotes, and had Classic Rock radio on in the house all the time. For Christmas one year, I received a double deck tape player which I used to record songs from on-air and make mixtapes for friends. That graduated to introducing the songs, prank calling local DJs and eventually I got a morning show on KACV (FM90) in college.
2. What’s it like working at 101X and with Lynn Barstow?
After a decade across the hall, I returned to the place it all started: 101X. Lynn is a great mentor, passionate program director and one of the best bosses I have had the pleasure of working for. If there was one bone I had to pick with Lawless (Lynn) it is that he always lets me know, on air, how bad my fantasy team is doing since we both play in the 101X league. To pay him back I delivered his winnings via leaf blower in all one dollar bills.
101X has always been a special station because I listened so much in college and dreamed of being one of the people on-air. I discovered so many songs, events and places thanks to this station – and still do.
3. Your bio says funny, random and weird pretty much sums up CJ Morgan who hangs out with you weekdays from 2-7p. How would you describe your on-air style?
The guy who makes fun of corny, shock jock radio by being a corny shock jock. Also, a cult leader (possible) alien entity who loves sound effects and hip-hop music beds under prank calls. My everyday goal is to suck less than the day before (which I remind you of at the end of every show).
I also love being your friend and part of the community. Years ago, I had a paralyzed dachshund who would come to work with me, and listeners helped save him many times – so I also am looking for a way to give back.
4. Tell us your self-appointed nicknames including the Captain, Wizard, and the Burt Reynolds of Radio.
My first week full time on 93.7 KLBJ I decided I needed a real classic rock nickname. The Captain was an easy pick by listeners because my last name is Morgan. I also spent that week prank calling other shows to get an idea for a good name and stumbled upon the Wizard, mainly due to a sound effect. Burt Reynolds of Radio was suggested by an intern because I had a mustache and was always shirtless.
5. What is your show prep routine?
I have a lot of weird dreams and ideas, so I usually start by checking my notepad. Then I browse social media and see what is happening. On the way in I am usually listening to a podcast or the news. I have never been much of a prepper as I just sit down each day and have an idea for what I do or get a feel for the flow of that day’s show (one phone call or event could turn things around or inspire an afternoon). Also, probably just laziness.
6. What do you love most about being on-air?
Hard to describe. Just talking to people. Planning shenanigans. Thinking of ways to continually top myself. Also, it is just fun introducing music to people and yes, nailing the post. I still get nervous cracking the mic sometimes or doing bits for other shows, so I know I still love and respect it.
7. How are you using social media to augment what you’re doing on-air?
Well social media is really how I got my professional start on-air. From my experience with college radio and TV news I was able to get a job as a part-timer in the building. I spent most of my time dicking around with Photoshop, making videos and annoying on-air talent to play my bits (and putting them online). Eventually, I built up a following, started a podcast (2008ish) and was able to convince Lynn to let me fill-in on weekends. Social media is just part of my routine as an entertainer. It just comes naturally to do what I do on-air online as well – or at least use one to tease the other.
As I always say, the most important thing about radio is the internet!
8. Who is your favorite on-air personality not on your staff and why do you like them?
SO many great people in our building alone. My podcast partner Chuy Alderete is the most talented, funniest person in radio but stuck behind a board. HOWEVER, since we work together, I will go with Big Tom Lawler instead. With a name like that and a G ride Cadillac how could you not? He is also constantly positive, passionate about radio, and often helps others in the business.
9. What would surprise people most about you?
In college I double majored in History. Upon a glorious exit from radio, I would like to get my Ph. D in History and teach. Then I would be Doctor Captain CJ Morgan.
10. Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without _________?
Annoying someone with a joke or self-written song about something gross. Chemically? Um, coffee.
Bonus Questions
What are weekends like for you?
Usually spend my time doing house or yard projects. I love cleaning and organizing.
What are your favorite places to eat in Austin?
So many good places. I am a regular at Amayas Taco House, Hilbert’s Burgers, and Michi Ramen.
Rank your sports teams in order of passion.
Dallas Mavericks, UT Longhorns, German National Soccer Team, Dallas Cowboys, Atlanta Braves, Bayern Munich
First record ever purchased?
Lol, bought two the same day in second grade: Poison – Flesh and Blood, MC Hammer – Please Hammer Don’t Hurt ‘Em
First concert?
My dad won tickets to see Ratt at the Amarillo Civic Center and dragged my along. I was probably too young for a hair metal show.
Favorite band of all-time?
Radiohead or The National. Maybe Sufjan Stevens?
Favorite new band over the past year?
Not new but definitely a coming out year for: Perfume Genius or The Unlikely Candidates.
Anything else you would like to add?
I love love love this business and hope we can all work together to keep it – not just around – but viable for our next generation of creatives and radio lovers. Also, follow me on the internet @theCJMorgan
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