10 Questions with ... Aaron James

NAME:Aaron James TITLE:PD/MD/Afternoons/Toilet Cleaner STATIONS:WMXO-FM/WOEN-AM MARKET:Olean, NY (#210) COMPANY:Pembrook Pines Media BORN:North Tonawanda, NY 8/29/82 RAISED:North Tonawanda, NY

Please outline your radio career so far:

WTSS-FM/WGR-AM/WBEN-AM/WWKB-AM Buffalo, NY 2001-2004
WYRK-FM/WBUF-FM/WJYE-AM Buffalo, NY 2004-2005
WMXO-FM/WOEN-AM Olean, NY 2005-Present

1) How did you get your on-air name?

When I was born back in '82 (youngster I know) my grandma wanted my parents to name me AJ or Aaron James, my parents did not agree, so all my life she called me AJ. She passed away in September of '04, as a tribute to her I am now Aaron James on the air.

2) What career path would you be following had it not been for this industry?

I would've been a Machinist, but realized quick it was boring and repetitive

3) What led to your station's recent ratings increase?

Music positioning, and by leaning a little bit older. Also, a "9-5 No Repeat Workday." It's a HUGE hit.

4) Who is going to win American Idol this year?

Melinda Doolittle is going to win this year. I go into a daze watching her, I am more amazed each time I see her sing. Her days of being a backup singer are over.

5) What makes your station or market unique? How does this compare to other markets or stations you have worked at?

WMXO-FM, the station that I am currently at is in a smaller market (Olean #210). I find it unique because I came from a bigger market (Buffalo #52) where there were like 80-90 people on staff. Here we have seven people on staff. It was quite an adjustment.

6) What is your favorite radio station outside of the market and why?

I frequently find myself listening online to WDVI (100.5 The Drive) in Rochester, NY. It's a really neat Mix of music. I would describe it as Rock AC. They play great music like Pearl Jam, Collective Soul, No Doubt, U2, and REM. I love the station. I could listen to it all day long. Check it out, www.mydrivefm.com. And if you work for WDVI, I would LOVE to work there!!!

7) Besides your own, what is your favorite radio format?

I really like the Active Rock format. Some old, some new... great stuff!

8) What was the most embarrassing thing that ever happened to you at a remote?

A former Buffalo Sabres player Rob Ray called me "fat" as I interviewed him LIVE. I didn't know how to react on the air. [I was in] total shock! He is no longer my favorite Sabres player of all time.

9) Of all the skills you have gained through the years, is there an area you'd like to improve?

I feel as though I am very good on the air... but there is always room for improvement!

10) What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?

Radio is in your blood. I have tried to leave a couple of times, but I always come crawling back.

1) What do you do in your spare time?

Spend time with my wife and my new baby girl, Marissa.

2) What are your three favorite artists or songs of this year?

Augustana (The CD is solid, bright future for those guys)
Hinder (Great Album, hard working band)
KT Tunstall (Unique, and great in concert)