10 Questions with ... Danny Howard

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

Sunny 92.3, Hits 96, WUUQ Radio, Alt 98-7

I've been with WDEF-WDOD-WUUQ-WXCT TN for 25 years... Prior to that I worked with WLMX Chattanooga TN, WQTU - Rome/N. Atlanta GA, WQNS - Asheville, NC and WHCC - Waynesville, NC

1. How would you describe your first radio gig?

WHCC-AM Waynesville, NC I got the job by auditioning at my high school (Tuscola) in Lake Junaluska, NC. (Besides playing trumpet in marching band it was, and remains, my career passion)

It was incredibly eclectic. I read UPI News copy at the top of the hour, played Aldo Nova next to Elton John, next to Skynyrd, followed by the Thompson Twins.

I also hosted the obituary and farm report, and the trading post when filling for the morning guy. It gave me enough stories to last a lifetime.

2. What led you to a career in radio?

I had an overwhelming desire to escape the norms and a tremendous love and respect for music. Most of my family worked real jobs in large factories (paper & rubber, banking). They provided well for their families and led great lives. But a large part of me would have died if I had followed that path.

3. How would you describe the radio landscape in your market?

Chattanooga is a healthy radio market and one of the top competitive markets in the nation for our per capita ratio. We have two major companies here each with multiple stations along with our privately held group (Bahakel), another family operated cluster, as well as several single channel operators. Several programmers and talents are veterans with decades in the market. We all work hard to continue to deliver great radio and advance and expand our brands both traditionally and digitally.

4. Are you wearing more "hats" than you have in the past?

For certain, switching hats is ESSENTIAL for survival.

5. "Local local local" has always been radio's mantra. How do you keep your station visible and involved in the community?

We have established outstanding partnerships in our community. It's unheard of for us to have a weekend without being a part of concerts, shows, games, fundraisers or community wide events. We have the best team of truly giving broadcasters ever. They are dedicated to helping make a difference.

6. Tis the season...is this really the most wonderful time of the year for Adult radio?

Yes, because it brings additional cume to our Sunny 92.3 brand. It affords us the opportunity to convert the cume into P2 or P3 fans. No because so many channels now offer a version of Christmas music or start burning it long before the audience wants holiday music. Timing is key.

7. What is the most challenging part of the job?

Staying ahead of the curve in a very rapidly changing technological platform and monetizing our digital products.

8. If you could add one full-time position to your budget right now, what would it be?

Digital and Social Brand Manager who can interact with our audience on-air and online.

9. What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?

Be yourself. Authenticity is critical.

10. What advice would you give people new to the business?

Diversify your skills. Be an informed entertainer with skills that can translate onto multiple platforms. Get a complete well-rounded education that provides an holistic view of the past, present and future trends of the industry.

For someone vacationing in your market, what one thing would you say they "must see"?

Too many to pick just one... World Famous ROCK CITY, the Tennessee Aquarium and Sunset Rock on Lookout Mountain.