10 Questions with ... Ray Gee

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

Before coming to SMG Rochester, I worked as a Promotions Coordinator for CBS Radio in St. Louis. After nine months, I took a job with iHeartMedia St. Louis as a Promotions Coordinator, eventually working my way up in the promotions department. Briefly, I was the Promotions Assistant and then I became the Promotions Manager. I also held three different on-air shifts with iHeart on ALT 104.9, and Z107.7 in St. Louis and ALT 106.3 in Des Moines. Currently, I’m the midday personality from 10-3pm on 94.1 The Zone. I also oversee the Digital and Promotions department.

1. How did you first become interested in radio?

Ever since I was little, I wanted to entertain. First, I wanted to be a movie star, then a talk show host and so on. Once I got into college and started exploring my options, I tried radio and fell in love! I joined the student radio station WIDB, had my own show there, and that’s when I really knew I wanted to do this for a living.

2. After previously working at iHeart/St. Louis, what led to your recent move to the Stephens Media Group/Rochester cluster?  

Because of the pandemic I was let go from iHeart St. Louis in October. I had never moved away from home, so I started applying to different jobs in radio all over the country. When SMG offered me the job, it seemed like a great fit and I had never been to the east coast before, so I went for it and it’s been awesome so far. 

3.  What is a typical day like for you as Digital/Promotions Coordinator and middays on The Zone? 

I definitely have a lot on my plate, thankfully I’m a detail-oriented person and I have the ability to prioritize and focus on what needs to be done first all while balancing an on-air shift. Being able to delegate is a huge advantage I have. Before I get on the air, I take care of any pressing digital and promotional needs, the ones that aren’t as urgent I can get done after my on-air shift. 

4. Tell us about 10a-3p with Ray Gee on The New 94.1 The Zone.  

Lots of music! We play alternative from the 90s and up and even get a bit experimental with artists we play, which I love because I do think alternative music can be a very experimental genre. I have a 90s at Noon segment which is my sweet spot. I grew up listening to all kinds of rock and alternative music with my dad and so that’s always nostalgic for me. You’ll probably hear me make fun of myself at some point in the day, mention my dog at least once, and talk about a lot of content I find interesting that I think our listeners would too. 

5.  How would you describe your on-air style?

Honestly, I just try to be myself. I would describe myself as bubbly, goofy and a bit edgy and I try to bring all of that through on-air.

6. What is your show prep routine?

I typically show prep the night before at home but then hit up a few of my favorite sites the morning of to see if anything fresh pops up. It also involves a lot of google searches and staying up to date on artists/bands social media. 

7. What do you love most about being on-air?

I love that I basically get to talk and listen to music for a living. It’s also pretty cool that I may talk about something that may influence someone’s day in hopefully a positive way.

8.  Mike McCoy says you have "the talent & skills we need to tie our on-air/web/social content together." How are you using social media to augment what you’re doing on-air?

I try to post at least once a day on The Zone’s social media pages while I’m on the air. I’ve become a huge fan of TikTok and can’t wait to use that platform more! I think eventually, I’ll want to make content regularly on TikTok and share it to our other socials because there is so much you can do on that app. Also, I try to share any content from our website to our socials to keep a good flow!

9.  Who is your favorite on-air personality not on your staff and why do you like them?

I would have to say Dustin (Fletcher). He’s a friend and a mentor to me. He gave me my first chance on-air in St. Louis and helped me with my on-air style and delivery. I love his on-air style! He’s so natural and confident which I admire because it’s harder than it looks.

10.  Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without _________?

Talking to my mom and snuggs and love from my dog Luna! 

How did you get the nickname Ray Gee?

I gave it to myself! It’s the shortening of my first and last name. At first it was just a way to make it “harder” to find me on Facebook, but the nickname stuck, and people started calling me that regularly. My friends also call me Ray or Ray Ray. 

What are weekends like for you?

Since I moved away from home, I mostly spend them with Luna! I try to get out at least once a weekend and explore a new area or check out a recommendation I was given. Luna and I love going on hikes or snuggling and watching movies. I’m also on Facetime A LOT now. I hope once it gets nicer out, I can visit some dog friendly patios or catch some live music somewhere!

Tell us about your dog Luna?

Haha can you tell I’m obsessed? She’s a 4-year-old mix with a HUGE personality and she’s my whole heart! I adopted her from Stray Rescue in St. Louis, and it was hands down the best decision I’ve ever made. I think we were meant for each other.

  What have been your favorite new discoveries in Rochester?

WEGMANS IS INSANE! I could definitely spend a couple hours there. The best food I’ve had so far is The Pizza Stop and Dinosaur BBQ. Both were so good that I ate until I couldn’t breathe hahaha

Are you a sports fan? Rank your sports teams in order of passion.

I wouldn’t say I’m super into sports, but I will always rep my St. Louis Blues and Cardinals!! Also, I’ve been told now that I’m in Rochester I gotta join the Bills Mafia, so I guess Go Bills! 

First record ever purchased.

Honestly, I can’t remember. I have a lot of old records from my Uncle that I really cherish. 

First concert?

Oh gosh this is embarrassing lol my first concert was Raven Symone! She was performing under The Arch I think as “That’s So Raven” and my 5th grade self was LIVING FOR IT. 

Favorite band of all-time?

This is such a tough question, but if I had to give an answer, I would say probably Fleetwood Mac. Seeing them live was a major bucket list moment for me. Miley Cyrus is one of my favorite artists of all time. I’ve also checked off seeing her live and she was amazing.

Favorite new band over the past year?

I’m really vibing with Black Pumas and IDKHOW as well. They both have such unique sounds. I’ve also been super into all of the alternative work MGK has been putting out. 

Anything else you would like to add?

I want to say thank you to All Access for having me do this. I had the most fun thinking of all of these answers!! If you want to keep up with me my socials are @raygeeonair.  “You’re only given one little spark of madness. You mustn’t lose it.”- Robin Williams