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10 Questions with ... Jay West
November 15, 2021
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
Mostly Top 40 & AC stations. Markets include Albuquerque KIVA, Milwaukee WLUM, Buffalo WKSE, Houston KNRJ & KLTR, Philadelphia WIOQ & WBEB, Norfolk WNVZ, WNOB & WVBW
1. What did you learn about yourself as a programmer navigating the pandemic?
I contend again…resilience. Finding the ability to bounce back and excel is a great feeling. I program in a 4 AC market that has an Adult Hits as well. It's a crowded landscape, so resilience is key.
2. Similarly, what did you learn about yourself as an air talent?
People will always seek out entertainment, even in down times. During COVID it's more important than ever to offer an escape for our listeners.
3. You’ve been in the air chair for over 20 years now getting folks home in the afternoon, what keeps it fresh for you cracking the mic every day?
Actually over 25 years just here in the Norfolk/Virginia Beach market known as Hampton Roads. Funny that you'd say "air-chair" Tom, I'm actually an odd ball in this industry as I stand for my show. Never sit in the proverbial "air-chair."
4. Who would be a “dream guest” to have on your show?
Dream guest would be Jon Bon Jovi so we could talk wine and music…my two favorite subjects.
5. What led you to a career in radio?
Mainly where I grew up…Chicago, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Those radio markets lit the flame of my radio career.
6. What is your favorite part of the job?
As corny as this may sound - the music!! I've always been fascinated by music as a language. Just about anywhere in the world you go we all have these 3 +/- minute "stories" that we carry with us in our head.
7. What is the most challenging part of the job?
Trying to do solid and meaningful promotions during COVID has been challenging. We now have a killer Promotions Director, Joe Amado, who will take this entire cluster to the next level. I am sure of it.
8. Tis the season…what’s your take on holiday music programming?
I believe Scrooge said…"Bah Humbug." No, seriously we have two AC's doing 24/7 Christmas Music right now, so I'll pass on the artificial ratings bump and focus on being a dominant hit driven AC playing the Best Mix of The 80's to Now. Merry Christmas everyone!!
9. As a well-regarded programmer and air talent, what advice would you give to someone trying to break into the business in the current climate?
Find a trusted mentor(s). Learn how to do a LIVE show, not just voicetrack. Eventually land where you want to live, not just where the next job is.
10. What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?
Not to take it all too seriously. Radio is a business, yes - but stop and realize now and then what we do is not life or death.
Bonus Questions
What was the first record that you ever purchased? First concert?
First record ever purchased (for me): Okay, so I am dating myself by saying the 45 rpm of Tony Orlando & Dawn - "Knock Three Times" circa 1970. First concert was in the summer of 1983 at The Forum in Los Angeles where I saw Journey.
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