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10 Questions with ... Vinny Foo
May 11, 2021
Have an opinion? Add your comment below. I'm a programmer that likes to use as much data as possible to make smart decisions.
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
It all started in 2004 as a mixer at WFLZ and lasted a few years. In 2007 I moved to nights at WXKB and had a 6-year run. In 2014 I moved to nights at WTMG. Shortly after that I became MD at WTMG and after a few years became PD. In 2019 we launched WDVH as an Urban AC station and I became the PD for that as well. Aaaaannnnnd last month I became the PD for WHHZ as well!
1. You grew up listening to Classic Rock and your first job was at WFLZ/Tampa as a mixer. How did that happen?
My dad listened to classic rock, so it became my first love. I was a club DJ in Tampa and would leave mixed CDs at the record stores to sell. The night radio host at WFLZ, Big Mama, got his hands on my CD and called me while he was driving with it on. He brought me in to do some of his nightly mixes and that's where it all started!
2. Congrats on your recent promotion at Marc Radio/Gainesville! What led to you becoming PD of 100.5 The Buzz?
Thank you! To be honest, I was in the right place at the right time! The current PD left, and I went to the company in pursuit for the position.
3. You’ve been in Gainesville for the past 7 years. Give us the 411 on 100.5 The Buzz.
100.5 The Buzz is known as the heritage Alternative Rock station in Gainesville, Florida. It is the sound of Gatornation!
4. How does it feel to be programming an Alternative station and what have you learned about The Buzz since taking over as PD?
It feels really amazing! I've been learning how the music moves in this format. Luckily, I have a very knowledgeable consultant, Alex Demers, that is helping out with that.
5. How would you describe yourself as a programmer?
I'm a programmer that likes to use as much data as possible to make smart decisions.
6. Talk about working with Alex Demers as your consultant?
Before working with Alex and before becoming PD for The Buzz, I was able to physically hear the difference he made to the station. So, I knew it would be great working with him and it is!
7. In addition to programming The Buzz, you program Magic 101.3 and recently launched R&B 94.1. What’s a typical day like for you?
VERY BUSY!!! It's all about time management, organization, and working at night!
8. What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of the job is why I became a club DJ back in the day. I love seeing the reaction people have to music!
9. Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without _________?
My team.
10. What would surprise people most about you?
I fish. A lot!
Bonus Questions
What are weekends like for you?
My family and fishing. My wife and I have a 3-year-old, so weekends are tons of baby shark songs and maybe catching a shark or redfish!
You play multiple instruments. Tell us about that and how often you still play.
I really don't play much anymore and now I feel bad about it... I'm a percussionist and love drums!
What are your favorite places to eat in the area?
I'm half Vietnamese and absolutely LOVE pho. I go to a place called Taste.
First record ever purchased?
Outkast Aquemini
Favorite band of all-time?
Red Hot Chili Peppers
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