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10 Questions with ... Dan Lucas
May 7, 2007
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NAME:Dan LucasTITLE:MD/MorningsSTATIONS:KCAJ (Wild 102)MARKET:Northern Minnesota and Southern ManitobaCOMPANY:North Country MediaBORN:Hattiesburg, MSRAISED:Hattiesburg, MS, Pensacola, FL, and Northeast Oklahoma
Please outline your radio career so far:
I began as a board-op at KGVE in Grove, Oklahoma. I worked at several different smaller market stations in the Ozarks before coming to Wild 102.
1) What led you to a career in radio? Was there a defining moment, which made you realize "this is it?"
Radio has been my passion ever since I can remember. Ever since I brought my dad's shortwave down from the attic, I've been addicted and knew I'd be that guy on the radio someday.
2) If you were just starting out in radio, knowing now, what you didn't then, would you still do it?
I would never have completely dismissed radio as a career, and a few weeks ago would have said that the Internet makes the future look great for people producing compelling content. However, the recent developments with SoundExchange are a concern. Overall, I'd have to do something relating to music and media even if it wasn't traditional radio.
3) What makes your station or market unique? How does this compare to other markets or stations you have worked at?
This market is unique because of the lifestyle and geography. We have an audience in both America and Canada, and the choices are a lot less broad than in most other areas, and not a lot of out of market reception. We've got clean air, beautiful lakes, and great fishing. Any season, there's a lots to do up here!
4) How do you position the station musically and why did you choose this direction?
Our market did not have a non-Country current music station. We went from an AC/Country/Oldies mix to a Hot AC blend and people are very excited. Musically, we lean more towards Rock than Rhythmic. Upbeat Pop tracks are a close second.
5) How do you stay in touch with the latest music trends?
I'm immersed in music. I read everything, keep up with MySpace, and will listen to everything that comes across my desk. I also love the "Next Big Hit Podcast." You never know where the next big song will come from.
6) How have music file sharing services, affected the way you program to your audience?
I feel it's making people in radio very aware that you have to be proactive with your music. You've got to know what's going on and get it on the air first. Remember when stations were excited to add new music? It used to be a race to get a new track on and have that bragging right. File sharing proves to me that people are hungry to hear the good stuff as soon as possible, and we try to keep up with that.
7) What is the biggest change that you'd like to see happen in the business?
I'd like to see some stations open up to adding more new music. I understand the logic behind why a lot of them don't, but I feel we could definitely take more chances. If you're the PD/MD, know the sound of the station, know your audience and play songs that fit. It's simple but it's a lost art.
8) What is your favorite radio station outside of the market and why?
It's a tie between KHUM and KSLG in Humboldt County, California. KHUM is doing an amazing AAA style format with the DJs picking all the songs. That's right, freeform radio does still exist! And playing great music. And their sister Alternative KSLG is incredibly connected to the local music scene and their audience as well.
9) What's your take on current music? Is it as good as six months ago, better, or about the same? Elaborate.
Music is always just as good (and bad) as it ever is. It's an issue of exposure. At times, more good records are being played or promoted than others, but there's always good music out there. It's all about looking for it.
10) What is the best advice you would give to young programmers/promotion people?
Immerse yourself. If you're serious about this business, read everything you can. Learn to network well. Don't be irritating, but be persistent and talk to people who are doing what you want to do.
Bonus Questions
1) Tell us what music we would find on your MP3 player, car or home CD player (or turntable) right now and what is it you enjoy about that particular selection?
I'm pretty eclectic. I really love Kiss the Girl's album "Touch." Also, current favorites include Regina Spektor and Mika.
2) How much interaction do you have with record labels?
Not as much as I'd like. I'd like to see labels come up with a decent servicing plan for smaller markets. Our station covers a lot of territory and our audience DOES buy albums. We're your best chance of getting new songs on the air first.
3) How much music do you listen to each week?
Everything that comes across my desk I'll listen to. I keep an open mind to music, if someone's taking me the time to send it, I'll give it a chance.
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