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10 Questions with ... David Salidor
September 10, 2007
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NAME:David SalidorTITLE:OwnerMARKET:New YorkCOMPANY:DIS COMPANY (Public Relations/Management firm)BORN:1954- PhiladelphiaRAISED:Philadelphia; Long Island; NYC
1) What led you to a career in the music business? Was there a defining moment, which made you realize "this is it"?
College radio was experiencing a defining moment back then; I absolutely loved being a DJ, but as it got more corporate, it got less fun. I remember my mother saying to me "You seem to be spending a lot of time at that radio station ... I hope you're getting credit." You know what I got...nothing...it was just fun as well as a learning experience. Nowadays I think you can take a whole semester and get credit for it!
2) What are the biggest highlights of your career?
Organizing the New Music Seminar and seeing it become so successful (1983); Madonna (1984); Run-D.M.C. (1984); Deborah Gibson; and seeing one of Mark Bego's books, "Michael" about Michael Jackson on The New York Times Best Seller list. Finally, getting to know and work with Micky Dolenz.
3) As you look back over your career ... any regrets? Missed opportunities?
Beyond the obvious (more money!) it's been a very, fortuitous ride... Madonna, Kid Creole & The Coconuts; Deborah Gibson; Run DMC; Micky Dolenz ... I've been a very lucky fellow!
4) How do you stay in touch with the latest music trends?
There's no question that it's gotten more difficult to stay in touch ... but, I make it a practice to see as many news bands as I can and attend events like CMJ and SXSW as often as I can. The business is much, much different now, but in a way, there's more of an opportunity for a new band or artist to break. It is an exciting time like never before.
5) How have music file sharing services affected the way you do your job?
Honestly, it's a tremendous help. When this first became a reality, I was always for it. I guess I knew it was bound to happen, so I just accepted it and learned to work with it. Same thing with the on line gossip-sites ... we've got to deal with them because that what everyone goes to first. Don't forget that vets like me never learned all this stuff in school ... we're mostly self-taught ... now, that's impressive!
6) How do you feel terrestrial radio competes with the satellite radio and Internet these days?
It's like cable vs. network. It's a daily challenge, but, they do find ways. It's a big pie ... and, if you work it the right way, there is always a piece available.
7) What impact will the firing of Talk show Host Imus have on radio and the media in general?
Well, I'm an Imus-fan and miss him. As these new tools of communication get better and more comprehensive ... we've got to be careful. Everyone is listening!
8) Where do you see the industry and yourself five years from now?
It will be pretty much as competitive as it is now. Sure, there will be new tools, but as Steve Leeds always says ... "a good song is a good song!"
9) Who is your favorite air personality?
Ken Dashow (from the old-school). As current a source as is possible WAXQ (Q-104.3)/New York!
10) What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?
As difficult as it is sometimes ... "Honesty is the best policy!"
Bonus Questions
1) Tell us what music we would find on your I-Pod right now and what is it you enjoy about that particular selection?
The new Paula Cole, The Beatles and Harrison's-solo work, The Killers, Hall & Oates, Dave Mason, Maroon 5, and [of course] The Monkees!
2) What other stations and markets do you like to keep track of?
I think that WPLJ, with Tom Cuddy, is THE best station today ... just a stunning array of music ... old, and new. In NYC, there's no better station.
3) What is the best advice you ever received?
"Go with your gut" -- August Darnell (a.k.a. Kid Creole).
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