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10 Questions with ... Phil Conner
January 31, 2006
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NAME:Phil ConnerTITLE:Manager of National PromotionCOMPANY:Gotee RecordsLOCATION:Franklin, TNBORN:Houston, TXRAISED:Houston, TX
BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
I graduated from Sam Houston State University in 2000 and came straight to Nashville. I worked promotions at Essential Records/ Provident Label Group for 4 years and have been at Gotee for 2 years.
1) What made you want to get into the music business? Early mentors? First job?
I just love music and I love the risk and excitement of the Music business. My first job was doing promotions at Essential Records.
2) What do you think is the most important topic facing the Music Business and Radio right now? Why?
To be able to adapt to technological changes and use them for our benefit. We can't gripe enough or do anything to change it. Ring tones and other mediums are important for labels to make up for lost revenue and radio will need to step up their promotions and presence to continue to draw listeners.
3) What does Christian Radio need to do in order to break through to a mass audience on a more consistent basis?
I don't think there is any one answer. I think they need to play the strongest songs, be open to different sounds and more than anything, stay creative and THINK OUTSIDE OF THE BOX.
4) Biggest changes in the industry you would like to see happen?
For people to remain passionate about music and to "do their homework." We need to be watching TV, reading magazines and doing whatever we can to stay relevant and keep it fresh.
5) In our highly competitive music field, where it seems more and more that every artist needs something special to get paid attention too, how do you position your self, and your label, to get YOUR artists the shot they need?
I think our artists work harder than most artists and I hope that our label staff does the same. I like to find what strength an artist has (ie: live show, personal relations) and focus on that.
6) Are you finding that today's "baby" bands are getting a fair shot at radio and more importantly are they being given the airplay they need to break through to the masses and be recognized?
With some outlets, yes and with others- no. Labels need to be committed to their bands. Too many bands get one quick shot and they are done. I want radio to see Gotee as a label that knows how to build a brand and has artists that will work hard.
7) What do you like best about your job? Least?
The lack of hours in the day, manpower and pressure I like least. The best, the people I get to work for and work with. I love all of our artists and believe in the art they make.
8) Who has had the biggest impact on these facets of your life: Personal, Professional and Spiritual? Why?
So many people, for so many reasons. My father and my grandfather- both super Godly men with great perspective on life and the examples to back it up.
My wife because she is sooo patient with me and loves me to no end. Her commitment in hard times is mind-boggling.
Toby Mckeehan and Joey Elwood because they have taught me so much about the business, about integrity and being men of God in all aspects of life. These guys are the absolute best to work for and I feel so blessed.
9) If you could ask God about anything, what would it be?
Why do you love me so deeply, truly and consistently? Why do you love me so much?
10) We understand that you have a wonderful dog. What makes him so special?
He is just plain special and lovely. His name is Uno because he is blind in one eye. He has ONE good eye. He's one of my best friends.
Bonus Questions
1) Do you read everything? Books, Magazines, etc. Nothing? What is your favorite reading material?
Scripture. I really do find life in reading the bible daily. Also, have to admit that I read US Weekly with my wife.
2) Do you have Musical Guilty Pleasures?
Sure do. Brooks & Dunn and Kelly Clarkson.
3) If you were stranded on a deserted island, what 3 things would you want with you and why?
My Wife, my bible and my ipod. We'd find food and drink, no problem - I'm a hustler.
4) What is your favorite quote?
When dealing with people who take undue credit... "Don't Pee in the ocean and tell me you made it salty."
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