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10 Questions with ... John Rozz
February 23, 2021
Have an opinion? Add your comment below. We avoid pop currents (we can't own them) and anything that's too guitar-forward rock (it would sound out of place on Gelly). It's not an exact science - it's more of a ‘feel.’
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
Prior to joining Sun Broadcasting in 2009, previously worked as PD WRXK-WJBX-WWCN/Ft. Myers/Naples; OM WBYR-WFWI/Ft. Wayne; APD WBGG/Miami; APD/MD WSHE/Miami; PD WYFM/Youngstown. Plus, stops at WDVE/Pittsburgh, WDIZ Orlando, WKST-WFEM/New Castle, PA.
1. What led to Sun Broadcasting launching Gelly 94-1 in December?
The 94.1 frequency was part of a 3-translator multicast for Fox Sports Radio. After upgrades on two of the multicast frequencies (103.3/105.9), 94.1 was able to be separated. Alternative was not addressed in Southwest Florida, which enabled us to add a viable format into our cluster.
2. Tell us about the station’s signal and coverage area on an FM Translator.
Gelly 94-1 is heard multiple ways ... 93.7 WHEL-HD2, which covers the market on HD radio, 1240 WFSX-AM, which feeds our translator at 94.1. Our FM signal covers most all of Lee County, the most populated county in our metro.
3. You mentioned that the station is not too poppy, and you don’t play heavy guitars. Give us the 411 on the music on Gelly 94-1.
The station has a great "feel" to it. We avoid pop currents (we can't own them) and anything that's too guitar-forward rock (it would sound out of place on Gelly). It's not an exact science - it's more of a "feel."
4. How did you determine the Alternative lane for Gelly 94-1?
The pure Alternative format has never been addressed in our market. When I programmed the old 93X (and 99X), we played some alt crossovers, but we were an Active Rock. It's a unique approach for Southwest Florida.
5. Give us the backstory on the station’s clever station name?
It was a lot of brainstorming. The first dozen names were traditional for Alternative radio (all brands beginning with "The"). It was suggested to come-up with a unique name ... Gelly stuck.
6. Tell us about the station voice and imaging.
To enhance our unique approach in our marketplace, we chose a British-accent female as our primary imaging voice (she's actually Australian, but close enough).
7. How would you describe yourself as a programmer?
In short: have a good strategy, be true to your brand filter, surround yourself with great people and details matter. As Coach Joe Paterno once said, "Take care of the small stuff and the big stuff will take care of itself."
8. What is a typical day like for you as Director of Programming at Sun Broadcasting?
Since COVID, fewer meetings (which isn't a bad thing). Every day is a juggling act of balancing priorities. Each station gets "scheduled attention," and of course, immediate attention whenever necessary. As so many programmers who oversee multiple brands know, no two days are exactly the same. You must have a great supporting cast!
9. What is your favorite part of your job?
The creativity aspect is still my favorite. When an idea expands from a conversation to hearing/seeing it evolve, it's very rewarding. Ideas may range from a promotion, to a talent's growth or even a large festival/concert. Watching our listener's embrace and react is a big payoff!
10. What will surprise people most about Gelly 94-1?
Gelly 94-1 has a great vibe and is easy to listen to for a long period of time. It's surprising how many unique songs we have to play. Many big alternative hits were not played in our radio market. It's chill ... check it out at www.Gelly941.com.
Bonus Questions
What are weekends like for you?
Spending time with my wife, Sherri, and my two kids (Nick and Gianna). One is in college and the other about to graduate from High School, so I try to spend as much time together as possible ... they grow-up so stinkin' fast!
What are your favorite places to eat in the area?
Angelina's Ristorante and Blu Sushi
Favorite food?
Gotta be Italian!
Favorite drink?
Coffee
How often do you get back home and what are your top priorities when you get back to Pennsylvania?
Unfortunately, I do not have any family remaining in PA. I rarely get back to The 'Burgh. Although, a trip to Primanti Brothers is worth the flight!
Rank your sports teams in order of passion.
#1 Pittsburgh Steelers ... #2 Slippery Rock University - Rock football (my alma mater) ... #3 Wherever my son plays college football!
Favorite new band over the past year?
They're not brand new, but they were new to me in 2020 ... The Blue Stones! Great guys and great single with "Shakin Off The Rust"
Anything else you would like to add?
Yes, I'd like to thank Alex DeMers for all his help over the years. Alex has been a great resource and a wise mentor. Thank you, X!!
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