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10 Questions with ... Brian Thiele
November 13, 2006
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NAME:Brian ThieleTITLE:Manager, National PromotionSTATION:EMI CMGFORMATS:AC, CHR, RockLOCATION:Brentwood, TNBORN:New JerseyRAISED:Washington, DC
Brief Career Synopsis:
Got my start with Country Radio Broadcasters in Nashville in 1999. From there I spent two years in the radio promotion department at MCA Records Nashville and then a year and a half at Lost Highway Records. I was the Northeast Regional Director for Vivaton Records before joining EMI in 2005.
1) What made you want to get into the music business?
I was a music major in college and got my degree in percussion performance with an emphasis in music industry. My degree was very performance-based and that can burn you out a little after four years. So, I started to explore the business side of music. I ended up in Nashville after accepting an internship with Sony Music. Music is still and will always be a huge part of my life, and this is a great town for that. I feel that I've learned something from every job I've had so I suppose I've been mentored by many.
2) What does Christian radio need to do in order to break through to a mass audience on a more consistent basis?
Step outside the box from time to time. I think the format needs to continue to move forward musically.
3) In our highly competitive music field, where it seems that every artist needs something special to get paid attention to, how do you position yourself and your label to get your artists the shot they need?
I do believe that first and foremost we need to have hit songs. That being said, we are working very closely with our A&R department to ensure that we have songs that will connect with listeners. As far as positioning myself, I think that comes down to relationships. Tracking calls are much less awkward (I think on both ends) when you spend time getting to know the people you are talking to.
4) What are the most important tools you use to stay on top of the formats growth and daily changes?
My ears and eyes. I think it's important to listen to what works in different markets. Study play lists or listen online to get a feel for what the station sounds like. Visit Web sites and read trade magazines to stay on top of changes.
5) What's your take on current music?
Current music is pretty good but I think it could be better. I think that we need to continue to work towards giving radio songs that will connect with listeners and at the same time break the stigma that our format is behind the times sonically.
6) If you could have any job outside the music business, what would it be?
I'd play music professionally. Which I guess would still count as my "business" being "music." Hmmmm.
7) Best advice for younger, less experienced music promoters?
Be yourself as much as possible when on the phone with radio and know that relationships take time to build.
8) What book have you read that has touched you or taught you the most?
"Blue Like Jazz" and "Searching for God Knows What" by Donald Miller are both great books.
9) What is the most precious memory of your life so far?
When I watched my fiance walk to the aisle and I knew that very soon she'd be my wife.
10) What is your favorite quote?
"If you're making music that's a lifestyle accessory rather than art, then you're bound to have crappy music." (Andrew Beaujon)
Bonus Questions
1) What's in your CD player right now?
I've got the iPod on shuffle in the car. Here's what has come up recently: Radiohead, De La Soul, Thom Yorke, Hotsnakes, Ray LaMontagne, Lovedrug, Stevie Wonder, Pedro the Lion and Brandi Carlile
2 ) Do you have musical guilty pleasures?
Guilt???? I am a free man!
3) Cat or Dog person?
Dog
4) If you were stranded on a deserted island, what three things would you want with you, and why?
1) An airplane that can land and take off on water 2) Lots of airplane fuel 3) A trained airplane pilot. Don't know if I still need to answer the "why" part but I will say this. I watch the TV show LOST and I've learned that you just can't trust deserted islands anymore.
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