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10 Questions with ... Nick Chappell
June 29, 2021
Have an opinion? Add your comment below. We know people consume music differently now. With the younger audience streaming music, we knew the slightly older crowd still tuned into us for their tunes. And we know one thing people are super nostalgic about is music. So, we scaled back on the currents, brought back the 90’s/early 2000s rock, and are more choosey about the new songs we play.
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
I took two years of a radio communication classes my Junior and Senior year in high school. My Senior I landed an internship with 96X and have been there ever since. I've been here 18 years now and worked my way up from an intern filing papers to becoming PD and running the whole station.
1. WROX has been branded as 96X for almost 28 years. What do you remember most about the station from growing up in Chesapeake and listening to the station?
Man, I have listened to 96X for as long as I can remember. I tried playing guitar myself but sucked. So I knew if I couldn't play the music myself, I wanted to play other people's music on the radio. I would listen to the station in my room and every time I was in the car. Hearing all the pop-punk in the late 90’s/early 2000s while on the way to the beach, trying to win Warped Tour tickets, and discovering my new favorite bands was something I always looked forward to.
2. So you’ve had radio in your blood since high school. I’m sure it’s hard to believe it’s coming up on 20 years for you at 96X. What has made 96X a successful Alternative station?
I think the track record of not being afraid to play something a little left of center. Over the course of the station's existence, we've always experimented with different sounds and have helped people discover a lot of awesome new music. We've played everything from Eminem to Korn. You can't shy away from good music.
3. A couple years ago, 96X shifted in a more Adult Alternative direction. Why did that happen and what has led the station back down the Alt lane?
We know people consume music differently now. With the younger audience streaming music, we knew the slightly older crowd still tuned into us for their tunes. And we know one thing people are super nostalgic about is music. So, we scaled back on the currents, brought back the 90’s/early 2000s rock, and are more choosey about the new songs we play.
4. Give us the 411 on the 96X brand and team.
Local, local, local. The only thing that separates radio from streaming services is the on-air talent and the content we bring. We've got some great jocks like Crizti Walsh, Alex Moteller, and James Dickerson that rock the airwaves daily.
5. How would you describe yourself as a programmer?
I still like to think I get ahead of the curve with new music. I've always prided myself on getting in early with artists who go on to have a smash hit. And for the music we play, we try to just give people the hits. Both old and new.
6. You also host mornings on the station. Tell us about 6-10a on 96X.
I try to be energetic and positive to get people going so early in the morning without being obnoxious about it. I'll give them some light and funny news stories and steer clear of the political and heavy news. I always try to make sure the music is as upbeat as possible.
7. What is your favorite part of your job?
Every time I get behind the mic in the studio it still puts a smile on my face. I feel like I'm talking to a friend when I'm on the air. It's still a rush.
8. Of all the things you’ve accomplished at 96X, what are you most proud of?
Definitely putting together our Christmas Shows. One year we split up one big show for a series of smaller shows at the NorVA. We had 21 Pilots with The Struts, Coheed And Cambria, Panic! At The Disco, Leon Bridges with Nathaniel Rateliff, X Ambassadors, and more all in the span of 12 days. It was insane.
9. Are you still drinking 2 glasses of milk every day? What is a typical workday like for you?
Haha, no more milk. It's all protein shakes and bars now. I wake up at 4 am and get working right away. I'll take a 7-mile run in the middle of the day then hang with my 2 boys when they get home from school. Then I'll listen to new music to find the next awesome new tunes for us.
10. What do you think may surprise people most about 96X?
That we are 100% LOCAL. We don't farm out any of our shifts. Our team all lives in town and wears many hats at our company. It's a labor of love.
Bonus Questions
What are weekends like for you?
In the Fall/Winter it's all football! In the Spring/Summer it's playing baseball with the kids, taking bike rides, and going to the local amusement parks.
You’re a big fan of theme parks and call yourself a “huge Disney nerd.” Explain.
I can't even tell you how many days of the year I go to a Disney theme park, haha. Being in Disney World is just a great escape from reality with my family where we can laugh, ride some rides, swim in the pools, and have some great meals together. We've made so many awesome memories there. Disney has me by the wallet for sure.
You’re a big Orioles fan. Rank your sports teams in order of passion.
Well, I named my oldest son Camden after Camden Yards so the O's are number one for me! And then right behind them it's the Washington Football Team. God, I hate the new name, but I love that team.
Favorite food?
Anything Mexican. But I do love a fish taco the most.
Favorite drink?
I honestly only ever drink water and protein shakes. Boring I know.
What are your favorite places to eat in the area?
Saltine is a great seafood place. And I love Plaza Azteca for my quick Mexican fix.
Favorite new band over the past year?
Kennyhoopla. I think it's been more than a year but everything that dude put's out I've LOVED.
Anything else you would like to add?
Being with 96X is honestly a dream come true. I busted my ass from day one to get where I am, and it's been a long but amazing journey. The Sinclairs have been absolutely amazing to me and my family over the 18+ years I've been there, and I wouldn't trade this job for anything.
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